
Pope Leo XIV has strongly condemned the ongoing military strikes against Iran by the United States and Israel, stating that "God does not bless any conflict." In a statement on X, the pontiff emphasized that followers of Jesus Christ, the "Prince of Peace," should not support violence, asserting that "military action will not create space for freedom or times of peace." He advocated for lasting peace through sustained diplomacy and the "patient promotion of coexistence and dialogue among peoples." This stance contrasts with that of U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who defended the campaign using religious language, calling the strikes a "holy necessity" and seeking divine support for U.S. troops to carry out "overwhelming violence of action." Hegseth framed the offensive as part of a mission rooted in biblical themes of justice and retribution, stating, "Let every round find its mark against the enemies of righteousness and our great nation." The Pope's message is seen by many as a direct rebuke of relying on military force to resolve geopolitical disputes, highlighting an ideological divide between the Vatican and the governments in Washington and Tel Aviv.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadNigeria's ambassador-designate to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, announced that President Bola Tinubu is in discussions with countries including Britain, the United States, and TΓΌrkiye to tackle the nation's security issues. Speaking in New York upon assuming his role as Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ibrahim emphasized that Nigeria is seeking solutions from multiple nations rather than relying on a single country. He stated that multilateral engagements are underway to resolve problems like Boko Haram. Ibrahim also highlighted that President Tinubu sent him to the UN to rally global support for Nigeria and to articulate the foreign policy aspects of the 'Renewed Hope Agenda' to multilateral partners and bilateral offices worldwide. The ambassador, a former senator for Ondo, stressed Nigeria's indivisibility, asserting that the country must remain a single, sovereign nation and that any discussion of division is unacceptable. He expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome its current security challenges, noting that its unity is beneficial for the world. Ibrahim also urged officers of Nigeria's permanent mission to project the administration's agenda and showcase the best of the country.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the recent surge in violent attacks across Nigeria, describing them as a threat to the nation's peace, unity, and stability. In a statement on his official X account, Atiku denounced the "continued acts of terrorism and brigandage" and emphasized that such violence against innocent citizens should not define the country. He extended condolences to victims and affected communities, urging authorities to intensify efforts to address the security crisis. Atiku stressed that the government's primary responsibility is the protection of lives and property, calling for renewed urgency, coordination, and resolve to confront the challenge and restore public confidence. He also acknowledged the United States government's support in the fight against terrorism, highlighting the need for sustained international cooperation. This statement follows a new wave of deadly attacks, including a coordinated assault on a military base in Benisheikh, Borno State, which resulted in the deaths of soldiers, including Brigadier-General O.O. Braimah. The North-East continues to face threats from Boko Haram and its splinter groups. During the Easter period, attacks in Kaduna and Benue states led to multiple deaths and abductions. In Kaduna State, gunmen attacked churches in Ariko village, killing five worshippers and abducting 31. In Benue State, suspected armed herders killed 10 residents in Gwer East Local Government Area. Other incidents include rene

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has donated N50 million to the family of the late Lt. Col. OC Okolo, who was killed during a Boko Haram attack in Mandaragirau, Biu Local Government Area, on February 16, 2026. The governor's spokesman, Dauda Illiya, announced the donation, stating that it reaffirms the administration's commitment to supporting families of officers who died in service. Governor Zulum, represented by his Special Adviser on Security, Brig. Gen. Abdullahi Sabi Ishaq retd., made the donation at a service held in Obinofia Ndiuno, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State on April 10, 2026. The governor extended his condolences, describing Lt. Col. Okolo as a gallant and dedicated officer. Prof. Stanley Okolo, speaking for the family, expressed appreciation for the donation and the delegation from Maiduguri. The funeral service was attended by representatives of the Chief of Army Staff and the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, among others. This follows a previous intervention where the governor donated N150 million to the families of three other military officers.

The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit Zone C, Owerri, announced the interception of over two million tramadol tablets and 10,000 bottles of barcadin codeine syrup, valued at N1.056bn. The seizure occurred on March 15, 2026, along the Okada/Ofosu Expressway in Benin City, Edo State. Customs Area Controller Bashir Balogun stated that the drugs were discovered during an operation based on strategic intelligence and coordinated enforcement. The driver of the truck attempted to evade officers but fled into nearby bushland after parking the vehicle. The drugs were found concealed among legitimate goods. Balogun emphasized the service's commitment to combating the smuggling of prohibited substances and warned criminal networks to cease their illegal activities. The seized consignment is currently in custody, and investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible.