
The Federal Government and Kwara State Government are intensifying social protection efforts, with over 460,000 households benefiting from the Household Prosperity and Empowerment Cash Transfer Programme. This was announced during a visit by Dr. Bernard M. Doro, Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, to Ilorin. The engagement brought together federal and state officials, development partners, and beneficiaries from across the state's 16 local government areas. Dr. Doro commended Kwara State for its strong implementation and commitment, calling the program a critical pillar in Nigeria's poverty reduction strategy and a model for federal-state collaboration. He emphasized transparency, accountability, and data-driven targeting to reach vulnerable households and urged beneficiaries to use funds judiciously. The Minister assured continued federal commitment to scaling humanitarian interventions. Mariam Imam, Kwara State Commissioner for Social Development, highlighted the program's alignment with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's vision for social inclusion, particularly for orphans, vulnerable children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly. She noted that the HOPE-CT program has reached over 183,000 households in the first phase, 139,000 in the second, and 141,000 in the third. Bolanle Olukoju, Commissioner for Communications, stated that over 463,000 households are expected to benefit. Dr. AbdulWasiu Tejidini, Acting General Manager of KWASSIP, noted Kwa
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First Lady Oluremi Tinubu visited the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa鈥檃d Abubakar III, at the Seat of the Caliphate. This visit is part of ongoing efforts to promote peace, unity, and national development. Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu, expressed appreciation for the visit, highlighting it as a reflection of the strong relationship between the Presidency, the Sultanate, and the people of Sokoto State. Governor Aliyu noted that the meeting emphasized the importance of collaboration between traditional institutions and the government in addressing national challenges and improving the welfare of Nigerians. He commended Oluremi Tinubu for her dedication to improving citizens' lives through the Renewed Hope Initiative, recognizing her humanitarian efforts as a valuable contribution to national development. Governor Aliyu also prayed for the continued good health and wisdom of the Sultan of Sokoto, and wished President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the First Lady success in their service to the nation.
Must ReadSenegal's President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has launched a new political party called Kiiraay, meaning "protection" or "shield" in Wolof. This development follows a public disagreement with his former mentor and ex-prime minister, Ousmane Sonko, who leads the Pan-Africanist party Pastef. Both men were previously members of Pastef, which brought Faye to power in 2024. Faye appointed Sonko as prime minister upon becoming president, but their relationship deteriorated, leading to Sonko's dismissal in May. The new Kiiraay party, with the slogan "Republican Patriots," was unveiled at an assembly in Dakar, with President Faye stating it is built on "republic, ethics, transparency, fraternity and work." Supporters expressed hope that the new party would allow Faye to implement his promised changes, including economic transformation, social justice, and a fight against corruption. While Kiiraay's electoral strength is yet to be proven, several Pastef officials and activists have reportedly resigned to join the presidential camp. Faye's communication team announced that the new party plans to hold a congress after the summer rainy season. Faye's presidency is largely attributed to Sonko, who was barred from running in the 2024 presidential election due to a defamation conviction. The two leaders reportedly disagreed on policy issues, including how to address Senegal's substantial public debt. Sonko's allies subsequently appointed him speaker of parliament, and he remains the leader of P
Must ReadIran's oil ministry announced on Saturday that it sold $18 billion worth of oil during the recent war and subsequent ceasefire with the United States. The ministry stated that $11.5 billion in oil was sold during the war and an additional $6.5 billion during the ceasefire, which ended earlier this month. This revenue accounts for over 60 percent of the oil revenues projected in the annual budget amidst the crisis. However, in late June, Iran's parliament speaker and chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, had indicated that Iran was unable to export oil due to a US blockade on its ports. The conflict began on February 28 following US-Israeli strikes on Iran, leading to Iranian retaliation against US allies. An April ceasefire largely halted the fighting, but hostilities resumed in early July as both sides contend for control of the Strait of Hormuz.