LIST OF REASONS

Nigeria has embarked on a strategic partnership with China to domesticate the production of military equipment, a move the Federal Government explains is aimed at eliminating the delays and bureaucratic challenges associated with procuring arms from foreign countries. By working with China, Nigeria intends to strengthen its internal security apparatus while fostering technological growth and self-reliance in defense production. This collaboration underscores Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing its security sector with reduced external dependence. During a joint press briefing in Abuja between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, the Nigerian government reiterated its resolve to minimize external interference in Africa’s security affairs. Tuggar emphasized that Nigeria’s leadership within the continent has been instrumental in addressing regional peace and security issues, often in partnership with major global powers. Howe...

Pope Francis stated that the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and the pervasive spread of fake news present grave dangers to society because these tools can be misused to manipulate minds and distort reality. His concern is rooted in how misinformation erodes trust, fosters division, and compromises social harmony. By manipulating perceptions, fake news creates a climate of suspicion that weakens the very fabric of civil coexistence and destabilizes nations. His urgent message serves as a call for vigilance in an era where truth is increasingly threatened by technology-driven distortions. In his annual New Year’s address to diplomats at the Vatican, Pope Francis, now 88 years old, reflected on the intensifying polarization of society. He attributed much of this division to the deliberate creation and dissemination of false information, a phenomenon exacerbated by the unchecked power of social media platforms and the advancements in AI technology. He lamented that fake news does no...

The U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos stated that they closed on January 9, 2025 in order to honor the life and legacy of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100. A statement on the official X handle of the U.S. mission in Nigeria described Carter as a relentless advocate for peace, democracy, and human rights, noting that the closure was a tribute to his extraordinary contributions to humanity.   Carter served as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981. Despite his single-term presidency, he became globally renowned for his post-presidential humanitarian efforts, earning him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. His commitment to diplomacy, human welfare, and conflict resolution left an indelible mark on international relations.   Following his death, Carter's body was transported to Washington, D.C., where it lay in state at the U.S. Capitol. A solemn military procession accompanied his fla...

West Ham United stated that it appointed Graham Potter as its new head coach because he was the Board's unanimous decision to take the club forward in line with the club’s strategic ambitions and future objectives. The English Premier League club described Potter as a highly respected coach with a flexible tactical approach and a proven track record of success at various clubs. His appointment, confirmed on Thursday, marks a significant step as West Ham aims to build on recent performances and strengthen its competitive edge. Potter’s leadership, characterized by progressive football strategies, was a unanimous choice of the West Ham Board following his departure from Chelsea in April 2023.   The 49-year-old coach brings experience from his tenure at Östersund in Sweden, Swansea City, and Brighton & Hove Albion, where his tactical ingenuity earned widespread admiration. His ability to adapt to different playing styles and develop players contributed to the decisio...