Topic · Baobab Pulse
World
International affairs and the global African story.
🇿🇦The Citizen·2 hours ago
Ramaphosa mourns former Qatari Amir Sheikh Hamad, praises visionary legacy
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed South Africa’s condolences following the death of former Qatari Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away on Sunday, 12 July 2026, at 74 years old. Ramaphosa described Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader whose "legacy of peace, prosperity and global influence continues to inspire the world." He extended sympathies to Qatar's Royal Family, government, and people, highlighting South Africa's close friendship with Qatar. Ramaphosa noted that Qatar, under Sheikh Hamad's leadership, became a model of peace, development, prosperity, and global influence. Sheikh Hamad's 18-year rule saw Qatar transform from an economy reliant on oil to the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, with one of the highest per capita incomes, achieved through strategic investment in productive assets, financial institutions, infrastructure, and human capital.
1 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·5 hours ago
Federal Government develops coordinated reintegration framework for former terrorists
The Federal Government has created Standard Operating Procedures SOPs for its Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration DDR program to enhance Nigeria's response to terrorism and violent extremism. Maj Gen Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre NCTC, announced this at a validation workshop in Abuja, covering federal implementation and pilot states Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara. The SOPs aim to translate the National DDR Framework's objectives into practical guidance, ensuring transparency, accountability, and coordination. Developed through extensive consultations, they clarify institutional mandates, strengthen inter-agency coordination, standardize operational processes, and ensure DDR programs adhere to human rights and the rule of law. Laka emphasized that DDR is a critical non-kinetic strategy, complementing military operations to achieve sustainable peace by providing pathways for individuals to abandon violence and reintegrate. Regional consultations showed support for a nationally coordinated, locally owned, and human rights-based DDR framework. Amb Abimbola Wońosikou, NCTC Director of Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism, noted the SOPs provide a coordinated national response to various security threats. She highlighted the need for an integrated approach to standardize existing rehabilitation initiatives. State DDR committees have been established in Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara, comprising diverse stakeholders. Wońosiko
4 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·5 hours ago
World Bank warns of fragile global food supply
The World Bank has issued a warning about the fragility of the global food system, despite adequate overall supplies. The June 2026 Food & Nutrition Security Update highlights vulnerabilities stemming from rising input costs, geopolitical tensions, and climate threats, which could undermine progress in poverty reduction. Global food supplies are sufficient, but higher costs and supply chain disruptions continue to pressure prices, and major cereal production is expected to decrease from 2025 levels. Fertiliser prices increased by 35 percent in the first five months of 2026 compared to the previous year, potentially impacting future harvests due to reduced application by farmers. An impending El Niño cycle, with a 61 to 87 percent probability of emerging by mid-2026 and persisting into 2027, could reduce rice output by 20 to 50 percent in vulnerable regions like South Asia, Southern Africa, and parts of East Asia. Domestic food price inflation remains high globally, with low-income countries experiencing a deterioration; the share of these countries with food inflation above five percent rose from 40 to 45 percent between April and May 2026. Conflict-ridden and climate-stressed areas are most affected, with 44 to 47 million people in East Africa needing urgent food assistance, and famine confirmed in parts of Sudan with risks in Somalia. The World Bank projects a 38 percent rise in overall fertiliser prices for the year, emphasizing that these pressures risk reversing gains in
9 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·5 hours ago
Torrential downpour causes widespread flooding in Lagos, submerging vehicles and stranding commuters
A heavy downpour on Monday brought commercial activities to a halt in several parts of Lagos, leading to widespread flooding that submerged vehicles, stranded motorists and commuters, and caused severe traffic. Areas most affected included Ikoyi, Lekki, Victoria Island, and Oworonshoki. Social media videos showed long queues of stationary vehicles and pedestrians wading through deep floodwaters. Residents described the rainfall as one of the heaviest in recent weeks, disrupting movement and business. Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo expressed shock at the flooding on Bourdillon Road. A frustrated motorist lamented the recurring issue, stating he was stuck in traffic for hours. Some commuters attributed the persistent flooding to ongoing construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, stated that the flooding was largely due to a significant rise in the lagoon water level, which had increased by approximately one meter, impeding stormwater discharge. He appealed for patience, expecting the situation to normalize as rainfall subsides and lagoon levels recede. Meanwhile, the National Emergency Management Agency's NEMA Lagos Operations Office conducted a flood impact assessment in Surulere communities, including Orile, Coker, Aguda, Itire, Ikate, and Ijesha. NEMA reported that homes and businesses were inundated, causing property damage, livelihood disruption, and restricted movement. The agency attrib
3 min read
Breaking🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·7 hours ago
US to strike Iran hard, reimpose Hormuz blockade, and levy transit fees
US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the United States would strike Iran "hard" and reimpose a blockade on Iranian ports. This declaration followed a third consecutive night of US military attacks. US Central Command CENTCOM confirmed strikes began at 2045 GMT, aiming to impose costs on Iranian forces and degrade their ability to attack civilians and shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The blockade was set to begin at 2000 GMT on Tuesday, causing oil prices to rise over nine percent. Trump also stated on Truth Social that the US would become "THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT" and charge a 20 percent fee on all cargo passing through, while ensuring "fair and open use of the strait" for other countries. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded on X, mocking Trump's proposed toll but suggesting Tehran could charge a lower fee as a "fair guardian." The US has historically opposed Iran's desire to charge tolls in the strait, citing international law. These developments occurred as both sides exchanged attacks on a scale not seen since an April ceasefire. The US military reported hitting dozens of targets, while Iran's Revolutionary Guards announced strikes on Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, and Oman. Trump also threatened to destroy Pickaxe Mountain, a suspected undeclared enrichment facility in Iran. Despite declaring the ceasefire over, Trump mentioned ongoing negotiations for a permanent settlement. Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei stated the June
3 min read
Must Read🇧🇫Lefaso.net·9 hours ago
Burkinabe diplomats return to Ouagadougou after closure of Paris embassy
Burkina Faso's diplomatic and consular staff from the embassy and consulate general in France have officially returned to Ouagadougou following the closure of the Burkinabe diplomatic mission in Paris. The return of the twelve diplomats and consular agents on July 13, 2026, was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which categorically denied rumors circulating on social media that some diplomats had sought asylum from French authorities. The staff, including former Chargé d'affaires Jean Marie Bakouan, were received by Minister of Foreign Affairs Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré and Minister Delegate Bêbgnasgnan Stella Eldine Kabré/Kaboré. During the ceremony, Bakouan officially handed over the national flag and the embassy keys to the Burkinabe head of diplomacy, symbolizing the effective closure of the embassy in the French Republic. This action solidifies the sovereign decision by Burkinabe authorities to end diplomatic relations with France, a decision announced on June 26, 2026. Minister Traoré stated that the diplomats' return is a crucial step in the process of severing diplomatic ties, noting that administrative aspects are ongoing. Bakouan described their return as "in all dignity," emphasizing that all necessary arrangements were made to inform and reassure other partners, including international organizations in France and other states covered by the Paris embassy. He firmly refuted claims of asylum requests, stating, "We returned proud, tired but not unhappy." F
3 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·10 hours ago
Houthis retaliate against Saudi Arabia after Sanaa airport attack, escalating Yemen conflict
Yemen's Houthi rebels launched strikes against Saudi Arabia on Monday, accusing the kingdom of attacking Sanaa's airport, which the Houthis control. This action reignites the conflict after years of relative calm. The internationally recognized Yemeni government, supported by Riyadh, claimed responsibility for the airport attack, stating it aimed to prevent an Iranian plane carrying a Houthi delegation from landing. The delegation was returning from Tehran after attending the funeral of former supreme leader Ali Khamenei. The Yemeni Ministry of Defense stated that "the Houthi terrorist militias supported by the Iranian regime" insisted on allowing an Iranian plane to violate Yemeni airspace, leading to the targeting of the airport runway. Houthi media reported the plane ultimately landed in Hodeidah, a rebel-controlled coastal city. Iran condemned the attack as a violation of Yemen's sovereignty. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree accused Riyadh of the attack and vowed retaliation. Shortly after, the Saudi-led coalition announced it intercepted ballistic missiles fired by the Houthis in southern Saudi Arabia. Andreas Krieg, a security expert at King's College London, suggested Saudi involvement in the airport attack is more likely given the age and condition of Yemeni fighter jets. The Yemeni government had earlier accused the rebels of preventing an International Committee of the Red Cross ICRC plane from leaving Sanaa airport and detaining its crew, though an ICRC spo
3 min read
Breaking🇸🇳SeneNews·10 hours ago
US military launches first marine drone attack on Iranian port
The United States military announced it launched unidirectional attack marine drones against the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas, marking the first combat use of these vessels. On Sunday, three Corsair marine drones, which are unmanned surface vessels, targeted a "submarine and ship maintenance facility" in the southern port of Bandar Abbas, according to the US Central Command Centcom on X. Centcom stated that these strikes "degraded Iran's ability to continue attacking commercial vessels." The command also shared a video on X showing the marine drones hitting the maritime facilities, causing two docks to explode. Last month, the US military used a Corsair drone, first deployed to the Middle East in March, to rescue two airmen after their helicopter crashed in the Near East. The Corsair, designed by Texas-based Saronic Technologies, is a 24-foot diesel-powered "autonomous surface vessel" that can be launched at sea, allowing larger ships to deploy and retrieve it without returning to port.
1 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·10 hours ago
US and Iran escalate hostilities in the Middle East, UN Secretary-General expresses deep concern
Hostilities between the United States and Iran have intensified with reciprocal strikes. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the escalating military tensions in the region, highlighting the dangers of a large-scale confrontation. The US announced it bombed "dozens of targets," while Tehran claimed to have struck bases used by the US in Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait. The US military also reported launching unidirectional attack drones against the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas, targeting a submarine and ship maintenance facility. Despite renewed hostilities, 14 vessels, half of which were commercial, transited the Strait of Hormuz. Former US President Donald Trump stated the US is reinstating a naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz and plans to impose a 20% tax on maritime freight passing through the strait to cover security costs. Iran warned it would not allow the US to interfere in the management of the Strait of Hormuz, with armed forces spokesman Ebrahim Zolfaghari stating any cooperation with Washington by Gulf countries would be considered an "act of war." The Yemeni government ordered the closure of the country's airports after striking Sanaa airport, held by pro-Iranian Houthi rebels, to prevent an Iranian plane from landing. The UK government announced a law designating Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a national security threat. Iran's state television reported "warning shots" against two ships attempting to illegally cross
8 min read
🇹🇳Business News·10 hours ago
Tunisian and French interior ministers discuss combating cross-border criminal networks
Tunisian Minister of Interior Khaled Nouri spoke by phone with his French counterpart Laurent Nuñez on Monday, July 13, 2026, at the initiative of the latter. Their discussions focused on shared security challenges, particularly the fight against cross-border crime and drug trafficking. According to a statement from the Tunisian Ministry of Interior, the two officials addressed various issues under the purview of their respective ministries. The exchanges specifically covered ways to strengthen coordination against criminal networks operating across borders, especially given the increasing regional security challenges. The telephone conversation also provided an opportunity to explore consolidating Tunisian-French security cooperation. Both ministers emphasized the importance of continuing joint efforts to address common threats, including illicit trafficking and organized forms of crime. Security cooperation remains a major aspect of the relationship between Tunis and Paris, alongside economic, migratory, and diplomatic matters.
1 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·11 hours ago
US immigration police involved in another fatal shooting in Maine
A 26-year-old Colombian man was killed in Biddeford, Maine, following a shooting involving federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement ICE agents. Human rights groups identified the victim, stating he was authorized to work in the United States. This incident occurred a week after an ICE agent fatally shot a Mexican man in Texas, intensifying criticism against the agency responsible for implementing Donald Trump's immigration enforcement policies. Maine Governor Janet Mills indicated that state police are collaborating with federal authorities to investigate the circumstances, with the FBI also conducting an inquiry. A witness reported hearing at least four gunshots after seeing ICE agents surround a white sedan. Crystal Cron, executive director of Presente Maine, stated that they would not allow this death to be a mere footnote. Senator Angus King of Maine informed reporters that he spoke with the Secretary of Homeland Security, Markwayne Mullin, and was told the victim had an arrest warrant related to his immigration status. King called for a "full, transparent, and open investigation." Media images showed a security perimeter and a forensic police vehicle at the scene. Protesters against ICE gathered in the area. Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain expressed that the community deserves clear answers regarding the incident and acknowledged the fear and uncertainty it caused. ICE agents, tasked with implementing mass deportations, have faced nationwide criticism for their aggres
2 min read
🇲🇦Le Matin·11 hours ago
Akhannouch represents King Mohammed VI in Qatar to offer condolences on the passing of Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani
Mr. Akhannouch, representing King Mohammed VI, offered condolences to the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, following the death of his father, His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani. During an audience at Lusail Palace, Mr. Akhannouch delivered a message of condolences and sympathy from the King. The Emir of Qatar expressed gratitude to King Mohammed VI and highlighted the strong personal ties and solid relations between Qatar and Morocco. The Moroccan delegation included the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita, and His Majesty the King's Ambassador to Qatar, Mr. Mohamed Setri. In his message, King Mohammed VI conveyed his deep sorrow over the loss and extended his sincerest condolences to His Highness, the princely family, and the Qatari people.
1 min read
🇸🇳SeneNews·11 hours ago
Ivory Coast road accident kills at least 24, injures 36
At least 24 people died and 36 were injured in a road accident in Ivory Coast on Monday, according to the Ministry of Transport. The incident occurred around 11:30 AM on July 13, 2026, on the Touba – Biankouma road, specifically on the Bafing bridge. The accident involved a passenger coach from a transport company traveling from Odienné to Yamoussoukro. Out of 69 people on board, including the crew, 24 were killed and 36 were injured. Rescue teams are currently working to locate missing victims. The Ministry of Transport has announced an investigation into the crash. Road accidents are frequent in Ivory Coast, often attributed to poor road conditions, vehicle maintenance issues, and driver misconduct. The ministry reports that an average of 1,000 to 1,500 people die annually on Ivory Coast's roads, with 1.5 million vehicles in circulation. In July 2025, a collision between a truck and a public transport coach in the northern part of the country resulted in 16 deaths and 51 injuries.
1 min read
Must Read🇪🇬Egypt Today·12 hours ago
Egypt condemns Iranian aggression against Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Jordan
Egypt has condemned repeated Iranian attacks targeting Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Jordan, stating that these actions violate state sovereignty. In a statement, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry described the hostile actions against the four Arab nations and their regional infrastructure as an unacceptable threat to Arab national security and territorial integrity. Cairo warned that such maneuvers are a dangerous escalation that could widen the conflict and fuel instability in the Middle East. Egypt reaffirmed its rejection of hostile practices that jeopardize the safety of neighboring populations or critical state assets, emphasizing its solidarity with the impacted nations and pledging full support for their domestic stability. Egypt called for an immediate cessation of all hostile operations, urging regional actors to respect international law, uphold good neighborliness, and prevent further military escalation.
1 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·12 hours ago
ICE agents involved in fatal shooting in Maine
A person was killed in Biddeford, Maine, in a shooting involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement ICE agents. Maine House Speaker Ryan Fecteau confirmed ICE's involvement, stating that state police and the FBI would investigate. Maine Governor Janet Mills was briefed on the incident, noting that state and federal authorities were cooperating to determine the facts. An eyewitness reported hearing multiple gunshots after seeing ICE agents surround a white sedan. The incident follows another fatal shooting by an ICE agent in Houston, Texas, last week. Congresswoman Chellie Pingree expressed her distress and anger on Facebook. Anti-ICE protesters gathered at the scene and planned a rally. ICE agents have faced criticism for their tactics and for previous shooting deaths this year.
1 min read
Breaking🇲🇦Le Matin·12 hours ago
Donald Trump announces reinstatement of naval blockade on Iranian ports and new 20% Strait of Hormuz shipping tax
Former US President Donald Trump has declared his intention to reinstate a naval blockade on Iranian ports, stating it will prevent ships or clients of Iran from entering or exiting, while other countries will have free access to the strait. He also announced a new 20% tax on goods transported by ship through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump, on his Truth Social platform, stated that the United States would be known as the "Guardians of the Strait of Hormuz" and would collect this remuneration, equivalent to 20% of cargo value, to cover the costs of ensuring safety and security in the unstable region. He indicated that the implementation of these measures would begin immediately.
1 min read
🇩🇿Algérie360·12 hours ago
Algeria ranks higher than France in Global Peace Index 2026
The Global Peace Index GPI 2026, published by the Institute for Economics & Peace, reveals that global peace has declined for the 12th consecutive year. The report, based on 23 indicators including crime levels, internal conflicts, political stability, and militarization, shows a record number of active wars since 1945. Iceland maintains its position as the safest country for the 19th year, followed by New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia, and Ireland. Countries like Sudan, DR Congo, and Ukraine are at the bottom of the ranking, with Myanmar being the most critical in the Asia-Pacific region and Russia at the global bottom. Algeria is ranked 91st globally with a score of 2053 points, a slight drop of five positions from the previous edition. In the MENA region, Algeria is 8th, following Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman, and close behind Morocco, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Tunisia. Notably, Algeria surpasses France in the ranking, with France at a concerning 99th place among 163 nations.
3 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·13 hours ago
Edo State Governor pledges N41 million support for xenophobia returnees from South Africa
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has pledged N41 million to support 41 indigenes who were evacuated from South Africa following xenophobic attacks. Each returnee will receive N1 million within 24 hours to secure accommodation, and the state government will also provide soft loans to help them start businesses and reintegrate into society. Governor Okpebholo made the announcement at the Government House in Benin City, emphasizing that the support aims to help the returnees rebuild their lives after losing property during the attacks. He urged them to focus on their survival and rebuilding, stating that their lives are more important than lost possessions. The governor also noted Nigeria's historical support for South Africa and affirmed that Nigeria would not retaliate despite the attacks. Riches Unubun, speaking for the returnees, thanked the Edo State and Federal Governments for their evacuation efforts. The Director-General of the Edo State Migration Agency, Lucky Agazuma, commended the governor's support for Edo indigenes facing hardship abroad.
2 min read
Must Read🇪🇬Egypt Today·14 hours ago
Egypt and Saudi Arabia emphasize freedom of navigation in Strait of Hormuz, condemn Iranian attacks
Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty and Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, stressed the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law. They highlighted the need to ensure the security and safety of international maritime navigation, prevent obstruction to shipping, and reject attempts to impose restrictions on passage through international waterways, warning of negative consequences for the global economy and energy security. The ministers also condemned repeated Iranian attacks targeting several Arab countries, including Gulf states and Jordan, describing them as a violation of state sovereignty and a threat to regional security. They called for an immediate halt to escalatory acts. These remarks were made during a phone call as part of ongoing consultations between Egypt and Saudi Arabia on bilateral relations and regional developments. They praised progress in bilateral ties and reaffirmed commitment to strengthening cooperation. The ministers also exchanged views on regional de-escalation efforts and discussed the role of the regional quartet Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan for consultation and coordination. They commended the momentum in Egyptian-Saudi relations and discussed regional issues including developments in Sudan, Libya, and the Red Sea, emphasizing close coordination on matters of mutual concern.
1 min read
🇬🇭GhanaWeb·14 hours ago
Security agencies weigh rendition versus extradition in criminal cases
When a criminal suspect is located in another country, security agencies have two main options for their return: extradition or rendition. Extradition is a formal legal process governed by treaties and domestic laws, involving formal requests, reviews by authorities, court proceedings, and opportunities for the suspect to challenge the request. This process can be lengthy, taking months or even years. Rendition, conversely, involves transferring a suspect outside the traditional extradition process, often through cooperation between security agencies or immigration authorities, and may not require a full judicial process in the country of removal. Agencies may opt for rendition due to its speed, the absence of an extradition treaty, national security concerns, immigration or deportation violations, and close cooperation between law enforcement agencies. While extradition offers stronger procedural safeguards and is the internationally recognized mechanism for ordinary criminal offenses, rendition or deportation-based transfers are used when domestic laws permit, especially if a suspect has breached immigration laws, no extradition treaty exists, or the suspect consents to return. Rendition has faced scrutiny from human rights organizations due to concerns about due process and potential for arbitrary detention, particularly in cases of "extraordinary rendition."
6 min read
🇳🇦The Namibian·14 hours ago
Next group of Namibians to be repatriated from South Africa expected this week
The next group of Namibians repatriated from South Africa is expected to arrive on Friday, 17 July. Immigration minister Lucia Iipumbu stated that a Namibian team is currently in Cape Town and Port Elizabeth conducting verification processes for the citizens to be repatriated. The total number will be communicated after verification. This follows the arrival of the first group of 71 repatriated Namibians on Sunday. Iipumbu noted that many returnees faced difficult circumstances in South Africa, including economic hardship, necessitating government-facilitated return. She advised Namibians traveling abroad to comply with immigration laws, remain in contact with diplomatic missions, and pursue opportunities through lawful channels with realistic expectations.
1 min read
Must Read🇸🇳SeneNews·14 hours ago
Ousmane Sonko criticizes French ambassador over alleged interference in Senegal's internal affairs
During the inauguration of a Pastef office in Mbacké, Ousmane Sonko strongly criticized the French Ambassador to Senegal, Christine Fages, accusing her of interfering in the country's internal affairs. Sonko addressed the controversy surrounding diplomatic passports, stating that their management is the prerogative of the President of the Republic, not the Prime Minister. He noted that President Bassirou Diomaye Faye initiated a policy to rationalize their allocation in 2024 to maintain Senegal's credibility. Sonko believes certain citizens, such as businesspeople, religious dignitaries, and those needing medical care abroad, could legitimately receive diplomatic passports. He then targeted the French diplomatic representation, alleging that the ambassador offered facilitated visa procedures to religious leaders as an alternative to denied diplomatic passports. Sonko stated he directly confronted Christine Fages, asking her to refrain from interventions he considers internal to Senegal's affairs. He drew a parallel to a hypothetical Senegalese ambassador intervening similarly with French officials. This incident follows previous tensions, including a December 2025 criticism by the Senegalese Ministry of Justice regarding the French ambassador's statements on Madiambal Diagne's extradition case, which were deemed inappropriate.
1 min read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·14 hours ago
Four Nigerian students to represent the country at the 2026 Spelling Bee World Cup in China
Four Nigerian students, including 2026 African Spelling Bee Junior champion Oluwadamilola Adeolu, will represent Nigeria for the first time at the 2026 Spelling Bee World Cup in Shanghai, China, from July 10 to 20. The team also includes Abdurrahman Yusuf, Chinedu Okediachi, and Maryam Yusuf. Their participation follows their success in the Nigerian and African Spelling Bee championships. The Nigeria Spelling Bee organization described this as a historic moment, highlighting the students' journey from national to continental and now global stages. The quartet carries the hopes of Nigeria and the pride of Africa into the competition. Oluwadamilola Adeolu, a 14-year-old from St. Lawrence Metropolitan College, expressed excitement about competing, meeting new spellers, boosting her vocabulary and confidence, and aiming to win the trophy. She thanked the Nigerian Spelling Bee, the Governor of Ekiti State, parents, coaches, and teachers for their support. Adeolu previously won the Junior category at the African Spelling Bee in Harare, Zimbabwe, where Abdurrahman Yusuf placed third, and Nigeria emerged as the second-best overall team. Her achievements also include second place at the 2023 MTN Spelling Bee, second at the 2024 Ekiti State Spelling Bee, fifth at the 2025 African Spelling Bee, and second at the 2025 Nigeria Spelling Bee. This debut at the Spelling Bee World Cup signifies Nigeria's growing reputation in international academic competitions.
3 min read
Must Read🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·15 hours ago
US President Trump suggests taking over and seeking payment for securing the Strait of Hormuz
US President Donald Trump stated that the United States would likely take over the Strait of Hormuz and should be compensated for securing the strategic waterway. Speaking on Fox News, Trump indicated the US would become the "guardian of the strait" and should be reimbursed by nations benefiting from its security. He emphasized that Washington expects to be paid "a lot of money" for this role. These comments come amidst heightened tensions between the United States and Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Iran had announced the closure of the waterway, citing an unauthorized transit, and stated shipping would remain suspended until stability is restored. Trump accused Tehran of breaking previous agreements, while Iran's Revolutionary Guards warned that continued US military interference could lead to further incidents in the global oil and gas sector. The latest developments follow recent missile and drone attacks between US and Iranian forces, which Tehran claimed targeted US military facilities and contributed to higher global oil prices. These hostilities have cast doubt on a recent interim agreement between the US and Iran to reopen the strait and suspend military action.
2 min read