
World leaders expressed shock and relief after a shooting incident at a media gala in Washington, D.C., attended by US President Donald Trump. Law enforcement detained a suspect armed with a shotgun, handgun, and multiple knives, who will face federal charges. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack on democratic institutions and press freedom. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that violence is unacceptable in a democracy and extended support to Donald Trump. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara were shocked by the attempted assassination and relieved the President and First Lady were safe, wishing a speedy recovery to the wounded police officer. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was relieved about the safety of President Trump, the First Lady, and the Vice President, condemning violence in a democracy. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed relief for all guests and stated that political violence has no place in any democracy. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum was glad President Trump and his wife were safe, emphasizing that violence should never be the way. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez condemned the attack, stating that violence is never the answer. Hungary's outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a Trump ally, said there is no place for violence in politics. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas was relieved there were no casualties, noting that an event honoring a free press should not become a scene of fear. P
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Must ReadMonths after demolitions in Makoko and other Lagos waterfront communities, residents continue to struggle to rebuild their lives. Families are living in overcrowded boats, makeshift shelters, and temporary spaces, facing uncertainty, loss, and daily challenges to find safety, food, and housing. A documentary explores Lagos' housing crisis and the human cost of urban development, highlighting the realities for residents long after the demolitions. The film also revisits discussions about relocation plans for affected communities as survivors navigate life without their former homes and stability.

The Nigerian Senate has initiated legislative steps to expand the federal judiciary by advancing two bills aimed at increasing the number of judges in the Federal High Court and justices in the Court of Appeal. This move addresses growing case backlogs and delays in justice administration. The bills, which passed a second reading, have been referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters for further review, with a report expected within four weeks. Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, highlighted the necessity of increasing Federal High Court judges due to the court's expanding responsibilities in areas like taxation, banking, anti-corruption, and election matters. He noted that the current number of judges is insufficient for the exponential increase in cases, leading to prolonged litigation and court congestion. The second bill proposes to increase Court of Appeal justices from 70 to 110 and integrate virtual court proceedings. Lawmakers believe these measures, including technology adoption, will reduce appeal delays, improve access to justice, and align with global best practices. Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, referred both bills for detailed consideration. If enacted, these reforms would significantly expand Nigeria’s federal judiciary, aiming to enhance efficiency, reduce case congestion, and bolster public confidence in the justice system.
Must ReadDr. Bolaji Olagunju argues that the underperformance of most public sector boards in Nigeria is not accidental but a result of their design. He asserts that every institution is designed to achieve its current results, whether success or failure. To improve performance, he proposes applying "the seven transformational disciplines of running government like a business" to boards: Purpose, Strategy, Structure, Roles, People, Culture, and Systems. Olagunju explains that a performing board clearly defines its purpose beyond legalistic functions, sets strategic direction rather than merely endorsing management's plans, and is structured effectively with appropriate committees and meeting cadences. Furthermore, clear role definitions are crucial to avoid "role pollution." He emphasizes that the most critical discipline is "People," advocating for board members who possess competence, independence, and commitment, rather than being selected based on political or personal considerations. A culture of candour, where directors can openly disagree and challenge management, is also vital. Finally, he stresses the importance of robust systems for board operations, from annual calendars to performance evaluations, rather than relying on informal interactions. Olagunju cites NAFDAC under Dora Akunyili as an example of successful design implementation. He concludes that fixing the design of these boards is essential for national progress, and that while all seven disciplines are important, g