Experts warn weak global diplomacy could worsen Africa's economic and insecurity crisis
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Experts have called for an urgent overhaul of global diplomacy, warning that weak multilateral cooperation could worsen rising insecurity, economic instability, and governance challenges across Africa and other regions. This call was made on Friday during a virtual event organized by the Diplomacy and Corporate Communications Conference to mark the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace. The event, themed "Uniting for a Peaceful and Sustainable Future," brought together diplomats, policymakers, media professionals, and young leaders. John Uche, the Convener and Lead of DCCC, stated that growing global challenges like conflict, climate change, and inequality require stronger cooperation among countries, emphasizing diplomacy as a practical problem-solving tool. He highlighted that in an interconnected world, no nation thrives in isolation, and challenges demand coordinated, multilateral responses rooted in dialogue, mutual respect, and strategic communication. Uche also noted a critical gap in understanding and applying diplomacy and effective communication in many parts of Africa, where diplomacy is often misunderstood as weakness. He stressed the importance of young people and non-state actors, and the need for training and capacity-building for stronger cooperation. Professor Mfon Ekpo-Otu, a former Head of the Department of History and Diplomatic Studies, University of Port Harcourt, added that in today’s interconnected world, multilateralism and coll
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Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, has defended President Bola Tinubu against criticism from the African Democratic Congress National Legislators Serving and Former Forum ADC-NF. The ADC-NF had faulted President Tinubu's description of their party's recent convention as "noise" and a "street convention," warning that such remarks could undermine Nigeria's democracy. The forum, led by former House of Representatives member Hon. Nnenna Ukeje, accused the administration of shrinking political space and noted an inconsistency with Tinubu's past advocacy for political pluralism and judicial independence as an opposition leader. Dare dismissed these claims, labeling the opposition group as "Nigeria's latest bunch of conspiracy theorists" and accusing them of twisting the President's remarks for political gain. He stated that the pattern of opposition reaction is predictable, involving efforts to discredit the President and question the electoral process. Dare insisted that President Tinubu's comments were misinterpreted, describing them as general in nature and not specifically targeting the ADC. He argued that if the term "noise" seemed fitting to the party, it reflected their internal conduct. Dare rejected suggestions of institutional compromise, affirming Nigeria's democratic structure and the independence of the judiciary. He dismissed claims of executive interference and democratic decline as exaggerated and not supported by facts
Must ReadOpposition political leaders are meeting in Ibadan, Oyo State, for a national summit focused on strengthening unity and coordination among political parties. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo is listed as the chair of the meeting, which is themed "That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy." The summit, held at the Banquet Hall of the Oyo State Government House, is described by organizers as a strategic response to Nigeria's current socio-economic and security challenges. Leaders from the Peoples Democratic Party, African Democratic Congress, New Nigeria Peoples Party, and other political parties are in attendance. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso have confirmed their arrival. Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde is hosting the event. The meeting is expected to focus on enhancing opposition cooperation and charting a coordinated political direction for future elections. Speakers include former chairman of the National Human Rights Commission Chidi Odinkalu, former member of the House of Representatives Usman Bugaje, former resident electoral commissioner Mike Igini, professor of political economy Pat Utomi, and security expert Kabir Adamu, who will discuss various national challenges. The African Democratic Congress alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress planned to disrupt the summit, an accusation for which the APC has not yet responded. Rotimi Amaechi, former Deputy Governor of Kano St
Must ReadThe Nigerian Army's troops have dismantled a camp belonging to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network ESN, in Imo State. The operation, conducted on April 24, 2026, along the Ubaha Orsu axis of Orsu Local Government Area, led to the recovery of suspected remains of two soldiers, Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew. These soldiers were reportedly abducted and murdered by IPOB/ESN in May 2022 while en route to their traditional wedding. Acting on intelligence, troops advanced towards the suspected hideout and came under attack, but successfully repelled the ambush. Following the clearance of the camp, troops discovered and excavated shallow graves, recovering suspected human remains believed to be those of Audu and Mathew. The recovered remains have been secured for detailed forensic analysis, including DNA testing, to confirm their identities. The army is also liaising with the families of the deceased for proper identification and burial arrangements. This operation, according to the army, underscores its commitment to justice for fallen heroes and highlights the degradation of IPOB/ESN criminal networks in the South East. The army assured the public that operations would continue until all criminal elements are neutralized and lasting peace is restored, urging citizens to remain vigilant and support security agencies with information.
Oluronke Katagum, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Zamarr Institute Centre for Children and Adolescents with Special Needs, led calls for increased acceptance of individuals on the autism spectrum during Autism Acceptance Month. Speaking after a commemorative walk in Abuja, Katagum emphasized a shift from mere awareness to full societal acceptance and the celebration of neurodiversity. The event, themed 'Light It Up Blue: Walk, Run, Ride for Autism,' marked Zamarr Institute's 20 years of providing special needs assistance and included children with special needs, caregivers, and advocates. Katagum highlighted the potential of neurodiverse children, citing an example of a participant who was non-verbal until age seven but is now highly intelligent. She stressed the need for improved support systems, noting the valuable contributions these children can make to society. Major challenges identified include stigmatization and financial limitations, with the institute planning a fundraising event to raise N250m for a respite center and a special needs facility. Katagum also called for greater government involvement, mentioning ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs to unify advocacy efforts and refine an upcoming bill. One special needs child, Enoch, shared his enthusiasm for learning about animals, space, and the universe. Autism, a developmental condition affecting communication, social interaction, and behavior, impacts an estimated one percent of the