PDP’s Breaking Point: Wike, Fubara, and the Fight for 2027

May 16, 2025

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is teetering on the edge of a political abyss, its once-mighty machinery creaking under the weight of defections, internal rifts, and a high-stakes power struggle that could define its fate in the 2027 elections. The PDP governors’ meeting on Sunday, May 11, 2025, in Abuja was billed as a lifeline—a chance to stem the bleeding and unify a fractured party.

But with key players absent and old wounds festering, the gathering exposed just how deep the cracks run. At the heart of this drama lies the explosive feud between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his former mentor, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, whose reconciliatory overtures raise more questions than answers. Is the PDP capable of pulling itself together, or is it hurtling toward irrelevance?

A House Divided: The Governors’ Meeting and Its Fault Lines

Convened by PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman Governor Bala Mohammed, the Abuja meeting brought together heavyweights like Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), and, surprisingly, Nyesom Wike. The agenda was clear: tackle the wave of defections—like Delta State’s Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Senator Ifeanyi Okowa to the APC—resolve leadership disputes, and chart a path for the 2027 elections. Yet, the absence of governors like Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers) and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom) spoke volumes.

Fubara, sidelined by a six-month suspension under President Tinubu’s state of emergency in Rivers, is increasingly isolated, caught in a bitter feud with Wike. Eno’s absence fuels rumors of his own flirtation with the APC. These no-shows signal a party struggling to hold its ranks together, with factionalism threatening to unravel its national ambitions.

The governors’ focus on leadership disputes, such as the roles of Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum and the contested National Secretary position, is both a necessity and a potential distraction. The South-East PDP’s threat to exit if Udeh-Okoye isn’t recognized as National Secretary underscores regional tensions that could further splinter the party.

While stabilizing the leadership is critical to presenting a united front, these internal battles risk diverting energy from broader goals—like crafting a compelling narrative to challenge the APC’s dominance. The PDP must balance these priorities or risk being consumed by its own dysfunction.

Fubara’s Gambit: Peace or Posturing?

On the same day as the governors’ meeting, suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara took a different stage. Speaking at a service of songs honoring elder statesman Edwin Clark, Fubara declared he was “not desperate” to return to office, emphasizing peace and the interests of Rivers State over personal ambition.

His measured tone contrasts sharply with the aggressive rhetoric of his supporters, who demand his reinstatement amid a Supreme Court battle challenging Tinubu’s emergency rule. Is Fubara’s stance genuine, or is it a calculated bid to maintain public sympathy while his legal fight unfolds?

Fubara’s absence from the governors’ meeting highlights his precarious position within the PDP. Caught between loyalty to the party and his fallout with Wike, he risks alienation from both the party’s mainstream and his own base. The PDP’s credibility hinges on its ability to defend democratic principles, particularly in Rivers, where Tinubu’s state of emergency has been criticized as overreach.

The Supreme Court case is a flashpoint—not just for Fubara, but for the PDP’s ability to rally against perceived authoritarianism. The party must mediate this crisis without taking sides, lest it further inflame tensions with Wike’s powerful faction.

Wike’s Chess Game: Reconciliation or Control?

Enter Nyesom Wike, the PDP’s enigmatic powerhouse. During a media parley on Monday, May 12, 2025, Wike dropped a bombshell: Fubara, accompanied by two unnamed APC governors, had visited him to broker peace. Wike’s confirmation of this reconciliatory meeting, coupled with his attendance at the PDP governors’ meeting alongside figures like Bukola Saraki, underscores his enduring influence. Yet, his commitment to PDP unity is complicated by his alignment with the APC-led federal government and his hardline stance on controlling Rivers’ political structure—a key flashpoint with Fubara.

Is Wike’s peace overture sincere, or is it a tactical maneuver to tighten his grip on Rivers’ PDP? His dual strategy—mending internal rifts while flexing dominance—keeps the party on edge. Wike’s critics, like the Conference of Professionals in the ADP, demand his expulsion for “unrelenting outbursts” against the party and his work with the APC. Yet, his defenders argue that no PDP governor delivered as much as Wike did in 2023, securing victories across Rivers despite not backing Atiku Abubakar. The PDP faces a dilemma: embrace Wike’s influence to stabilize its base, or risk further division by sidelining him. Either way, his dominance is both a lifeline and a liability.

The Road to 2027: Defections, Elections, and Survival

The PDP’s survival hinges on its ability to address defections, win key elections, and resolve internal conflicts. The loss of figures like Oborevwori and Okowa is a body blow, particularly in Delta, a traditional PDP stronghold. To prevent further hemorrhaging, the party must strengthen grassroots mobilization, offer clear incentives for loyalty, and address regional grievances—like the South-East’s demand for the National Secretary role.

A Saraki-led reconciliation committee, announced at the governors’ meeting, is a step toward outreach, but its success depends on navigating Wike’s influence and Fubara’s isolation.

Off-season elections in Anambra, Ekiti, and Osun are critical tests. Victories here could rebuild momentum, signaling to voters that the PDP remains a viable alternative to the APC. The party’s strategy—mobilizing resources, galvanizing support, and possibly exploring coalitions with other opposition parties—must be executed with precision. Failure risks ceding more ground to a resurgent APC, which is already capitalizing on PDP’s disarray.

Can the PDP Rise Again?

The PDP stands at a crossroads, its path to 2027 fraught with peril and possibility. The Wike-Fubara feud, leadership disputes, and defections are not just internal squabbles—they are existential threats. The party must act decisively: mediate the Rivers crisis, unify its leadership, and present a bold vision that resonates with Nigerians weary of APC’s governance. Wike’s influence, for better or worse, cannot be ignored, but neither can Fubara’s plight or the broader party’s aspirations.

As the PDP navigates this turbulent terrain, one thing is clear: unity is not a luxury, but a necessity. The governors’ meeting was a start, but words must become action. The PDP’s ability to rise from its current malaise will determine whether it can challenge Tinubu in 2027—or fade into political oblivion. The clock is ticking, and Nigeria is watching.

Russian-Ukraine Peace Talks: Matters Arising

Ohiomoje Margaret

May 16, 2025

For the first time in over three years, Russian and Ukrainian negotiators gathered face-to-face on Friday at Istanbul’s historic Dolmabahçe Palace in a fresh attempt to revive peace talks amid the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II. The meeting, mediated by Türkiye, comes amid mounting international pressure, particularly from U.S. President Donald Trump, to bring the war to a diplomatic end.

Friday’s summit marked the first direct engagement between both sides since March 2022, shortly after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The trilateral talks, hosted by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, brought together Russian, Ukrainian, and Turkish representatives in a 1-hour-45-minute closed-door session.

“We must seize this opportunity to advance on the path to peace,” Fidan urged in his opening statement, signaling Türkiye’s enduring role as a peace broker in the conflict.

Delegation Line-up and Leadership Absence

Though billed as high-stakes, the meeting lacked direct participation from either President Vladimir Putin, President Volodymyr Zelensky, or U.S. President Donald Trump.

Putin reportedly opted out of the summit to attend a scheduled military strategy session in Moscow, emphasizing Russia’s ongoing “security priorities.” Zelensky, on the other hand, declined to attend due to security concerns and frustration over what he perceived as Russia’s lack of genuine commitment to peace. Trump, despite his vocal interest, was absent due to his ongoing campaign activities in the U.S. and a scheduled diplomatic visit to the Middle East.

Russia’s delegation was led by presidential advisor Vladimir Medinsky, along with key military and foreign ministry officials, including Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin and Deputy Defense Minister Aleksandr Fomin.

Ukraine was represented by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and senior intelligence officials. Turkish intelligence chief İbrahim Kalın was also present, underlining the country’s central role in mediation.

The U.S. was represented by a special envoy delegation led by Deputy Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland and Lt. Gen. James Glynn of the Pentagon, underscoring Washington’s strategic interest in the region.

Zelensky criticized Moscow’s decision to send what he called “stand-in props,” calling the move unserious. In response, Russia accused Ukraine of staging a political performance.

Stalemate and a Glimmer of Progress

While broader ceasefire efforts remain stalled, both nations reached a significant humanitarian agreement: a mutual exchange of 1,000 prisoners of war — the largest such swap since the war began.

However, hopes for a ceasefire were dashed when Ukraine’s proposal for a full, unconditional 30-day truce was outright rejected by Moscow. Instead, Russia reiterated new demands, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from contested regions, which Ukraine dismissed as “unacceptable.”

Trump Influence and Global Pressure

U.S. President Donald Trump cast a long shadow over the talks. Speaking before and during the summit, Trump declared that “nothing’s going to happen” without a personal meeting between himself and President Putin. He reiterated his belief that such a meeting was essential to break the deadlock.

“Progress will stall unless I speak directly with Putin,” Trump told reporters, pledging to meet the Russian leader after his Middle East trip.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who attended the talks, echoed this sentiment, cautioning that “a major breakthrough is unlikely” without top-level dialogue.

Meanwhile, European leaders from France, Germany, and the UK issued a joint statement condemning Russia’s demands and called for renewed international unity in addressing the conflict’s humanitarian toll.

The peace talks ended with mixed signals. The agreement on the prisoner exchange offered a glimmer of hope, yet the absence of top leaders and the rejection of ceasefire proposals underlined the ongoing stalemate.

Despite calls for diplomacy, the road to peace remains obstructed by deeply entrenched positions. As the war grinds on, the global community continues to watch for signs (and leadership) that could shift the tide from battlefield to negotiation table.

Chief of Defence Staff Visits Borno Following Wave of Terrorist Attacks

Olaosun Rebecca

May 16, 2025

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has arrived in Borno State amid heightened military tensions following a series of deadly attacks on military bases by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.

Sources confirm that four military formations came under coordinated assault this week, prompting urgent high-level security assessments in the region. Specifically, military bases in Rann, Gajiram, Dikwa, and Marte in Borno State were targeted, resulting in the deaths of at least four soldiers and an undisclosed number of casualties and missing personnel.

Additionally, on May 5, Boko Haram insurgents attacked the 27 Task Force Brigade in Buni Yadi, Gujba LGA of Yobe State, killing four soldiers and destroying multiple assets.

General Musa’s visit is aimed at boosting troop morale, evaluating on-ground operations, and coordinating a reinforced response to the renewed insurgent threats in Nigeria’s troubled northeast.

During his visit to Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, the CDS met with stakeholders, military commanders, and frontline troops to address the security breaches and recent attacks.

Speaking after a closed-door meeting with heads of military formations and commanders in the state, General Musa stated, “Actions are being taken to address the recent series of attacks. We have a new theatre commander assigned here, and other commanders have also been redeployed. A lot of equipment has been brought into the theatre.”

He attributed the resurgence of Boko Haram attacks in Borno State to growing instability in Sahel countries such as Mali, Chad, and Niger.

“If you look at the entire Sahel region, you’ll realise that the pressure in Mali, Chad, and Niger has significantly impacted Nigeria. That is why we’ve seen these recent attacks, but we are taking them very seriously and addressing them,” He said

General Musa assured that the resurgence of attacks was temporary, emphasizing, “Whatever is happening now is just for a short while. We have responded drastically, and going forward, there will be positive results from the theatre.”

“As we speak, our troops are out there in Sambisa and Timbuktu conducting operations.”

The CDS revealed that more equipment and air assets were being deployed, with additional actions underway to suppress the insurgents.

On the challenges of asymmetric warfare, he noted, “This type of warfare is very difficult because, unlike conventional warfare where you can bomb a whole community, here we have to respect human rights and protect civilians who are not combatants.”

“It requires time and precision. But I can assure you we are heading in the right direction and will continue to do more.”

General Musa also commended the resilience of Borno State residents and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

“I want to assure the people of Maiduguri, the North-East, and Nigerians in general that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are determined, willing, and capable of restoring peace and security.

“We are working tirelessly toward that goal.”

He appealed to journalists for balanced reporting to avoid emboldening insurgents, saying, “Let us be fair and balanced in our reports. If our stories focus solely on what the insurgents are doing, we empower them psychologically and motivate them to continue.

“Let us uplift our troops through our reporting.”

The visit comes as part of a broader effort by service chiefs to address the deteriorating security situation across Nigeria’s North-East and North-West.

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has been touring strategic locations in Zamfara, Kano, and Katsina, while the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, visited the headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai in Borno to lead operations and encourage troops.

A senior military official confirmed, “The service chiefs have been working very hard to ensure the attacks witnessed in recent times are reduced to the barest minimum.

“They are not sitting idle; they’re all actively engaged.”

Security experts have expressed concern over the increasing frequency of attacks.

Retired officer Chris Andrew emphasized the need for greater deployment of technology,

“A few months before Jonathan left office, the Boko Haram terrorists were effectively tackled by mercenaries who came with drones and other technologies, they succeeded by about 99 percent.”

Security analyst Oladele Fajana described the loss of military equipment to insurgents as alarming and warning.

“For such attacks to succeed, it points to a failure in intelligence gathering. That system needs urgent improvement.”

Further details of General Musa’s itinerary and operational updates are expected as the visit unfolds.

At Least 30 Killed in Separatist Attack on Okigwe-Owerri Road in Imo State, Nigeria

Olaosun Rebecca

May 16, 2025

A deadly attack by suspected separatist gunmen on May 8, 2025, along the Okigwe-Owerri Road in Imo State has left at least 30 travelers dead and more than 20 vehicles burned, according to Amnesty International.

The vicious assault, which targeted commuters in Nigeria’s volatile southeastern region, has drawn widespread condemnation and renewed calls for action to address the escalating violence linked to the Biafra separatist movement.

The attack occurred in the early hours of Thursday, with gunmen blocking the highway between Umuna in Onuimo Local Government Area and parts of Okigwe Local Government Area.

According to reports, the assailants opened fire on commuters, set vehicles ablaze, and engaged security forces in a gunfight.

The Imo State Police Command confirmed the incident, attributing the attack to suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

However, IPOB has vehemently denied involvement, labeling the attack a “state-sponsored terrorist assault” and accusing Amnesty International Nigeria of aligning with government narratives to discredit the group.

Amnesty International strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a “callous disregard for the sanctity of life” and urging Nigerian authorities to conduct a transparent investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.

“International law requires the Nigerian government to promptly investigate unlawful killings,” the rights group stated in a post on X.

The Imo State Police, led by Commissioner Aboki Danjuma, have launched a “coordinated manhunt” for the attackers.

Police spokesperson Henry Okoye reported that one gunman was killed during the clash, and a stolen Toyota Corolla and a laptop were recovered at the scene.

Efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects are ongoing, with joint security teams, including the Nigerian Army and State Security Service, deployed to restore calm.

The attack has reignited concerns about the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria’s southeast, where separatist tensions have simmered since the Biafra civil war of 1967–1970, which claimed over one million lives, many due to starvation.

The Indigenous People of Biafra, led by detained leader Nnamdi Kanu, has been at the forefront of renewed calls for an independent Biafra state, encompassing the southeast and parts of the south-south.

While IPOB insists it pursues a non-violent agenda, Nigerian authorities frequently blame the group for deadly attacks in the region, a charge IPOB consistently denies.

In a statement, IPOB criticized Amnesty International Nigeria’s “hasty conclusion” linking the group to the attack, arguing that it undermines the organization’s credibility.

The group pointed to past incidents, such as the 2021 Owerri prison break, which it claims were orchestrated by the government to frame IPOB and justify crackdowns.

“The Nigerian government uses its paid agents to falsely accuse IPOB and ESN, thereby preventing any real inquiry into these incidents,” IPOB stated.

The Okigwe-Owerri Road attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents in Imo State, where security has deteriorated in recent years.

In March 2024, gunmen ambushed and killed two police officers in Okigwe, and in May 2024, a separate attack in Aba claimed the lives of six civilians and five soldiers.

These incidents, often attributed to separatists, have heightened fears among residents and disrupted daily life, with farmers caught in the crossfire and schools operating on reduced hours in areas like Okigwe and Orlu.

The violence comes amid broader regional challenges, including the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, who faces terrorism and treason charges in Abuja, and Simon Ekpa, another prominent separatist leader held in Finland.

The Nigerian government has stated it is in talks with Finnish authorities regarding Ekpa’s alleged role in regional unrest but has not yet initiated extradition proceedings.

As the investigation into the May 8 attack continues, residents of Imo State are grappling with fear and uncertainty.

The incident has underscored the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of separatist violence, including longstanding grievances over marginalization and economic disparities in the southeast.

For now, the Okigwe-Owerri Road, a vital artery for commuters, remains a grim reminder of the region’s fragile security.

Mozambique’s Parliament Passes Landmark Law to Foster Peace and Reconciliation

Olaosun Rebecca

May 16, 2025

In a historic step toward national reconciliation, Mozambique’s parliament unanimously passed a landmark law on April 2, 2025, aimed at restoring peace through inclusive national dialogue and constitutional reform.

The legislation, a cornerstone of a peace agreement signed on March 5 between President Daniel Chapo and all political parties, seeks to address longstanding political tensions exacerbated by the disputed October 9, 2024, general elections, which sparked protests resulting in approximately 360 deaths over five months.

The new law, titled the Political Commitment for an Inclusive National Dialogue, outlines three primary objectives: restructuring the state to enhance governance, depoliticizing institutions to curb partisan influence, and decentralizing political, economic, and financial power to grant greater regional autonomy.

Key reforms include revisions to presidential authority and the governance framework, as well as pardons for peaceful demonstrators convicted during post-election unrest.

The legislation is seen as a response to calls for electoral integrity and democratic accountability, particularly from opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, who has contested the 2024 election results.

The passage of the law follows a significant meeting on March 23 between President Chapo and Mondlane, marking a potential breakthrough in easing political hostilities.

The ruling Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo), which holds 171 of the 250 parliamentary seats, hailed the law as a “historic opportunity to contribute to Mozambique’s renewal.”

Frelimo representative Feliz Sílvia emphasized its role in fostering trust among political actors and reducing instability.

However, opposition parties expressed cautious optimism. The Democratic Movement of Mozambique (MDM), with eight seats, welcomed the law but criticized the government’s delayed response to electoral fraud concerns.

“It took months of protests and bloodshed before those in power realized democracy cannot be sustained by force,” said MDM leader Fernando Bismarque.

The Optimist Party for the Development of Mozambique (Podemos), holding 43 seats, called the agreement a “turning point” but urged inclusivity, with leader Sebastião Mussanhane stressing that “young people should be political participants, not just electoral tools.”

The Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo), with 28 seats, voiced skepticism, citing a history of unfulfilled political agreements.

The law also includes provisions for justice system reform, such as mechanisms for appointing independent judicial heads, and electoral system changes to enhance transparency.

Human Rights Watch noted that the legislation aims to create platforms for broad societal dialogue, emphasizing the need for diverse representation and accountability for security forces implicated in post-election violence.

Political analysts caution that the law’s success hinges on genuine implementation.

“This is a step toward peace, but it requires commitment from all sides,” said a Maputo-based analyst.

The legislation builds on Mozambique’s history of peace accords, including the 1992 General Peace Agreement and the 2019 Maputo Accord, which ended decades of civil conflict but faced challenges in addressing systemic inequalities.

As Mozambique navigates this critical juncture, the international community is watching closely. The law’s passage signals hope for stability in a nation grappling with political divisions and economic challenges, but its impact will depend on translating promises into tangible reforms.

For now, Mozambicans await the next steps in this delicate process of rebuilding trust and fostering lasting peace.

Trump Finalizes AI Semiconductor Deal with UAE as Part of $1.4 Trillion Investment Push

Ohiomoje Margaret

May 16, 2025

President Donald Trump has unveiled a new AI chip agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), forming part of a broader $1.4 trillion initiative aimed at deepening technological cooperation between the two nations.

On Friday, Trump announced a major development in technology and trade relations with the UAE, granting the country access to high-end artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductors produced by American firms.

This announcement follows Trump’s recent visit to Abu Dhabi, where the deal was finalized. It marks a significant step forward both diplomatically and economically. The agreement comes at a time when the UAE is carefully balancing its longstanding relationship with the United States while expanding economic engagement with China, its top trading partner.

This arrangement is seen as a substantial advancement for the UAE’s goal of becoming a prominent force in AI innovation. Trump mentioned that safeguards would be in place to ensure proper handling of the chips, including American oversight of data centers involved.

“We’re making great progress for the $1.4 trillion that UAE has announced it intends to spend in the United States,” Trump said during his concluding stop on a tour of the Gulf region, which included Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

“Yesterday, the two countries agreed to create a path for UAE to buy some of the world’s most advanced AI semiconductors from American companies — a very big contract,” he added.

This deal is expected to contribute billions to both economies and tighten bilateral economic links. It also supports the UAE’s previously declared plan from March to invest $1.4 trillion in various U.S. industries over the next ten years, including energy, AI, and manufacturing.

“This deal will accelerate the UAE’s plans to become a really major player in artificial intelligence,” Trump noted.

The agreement also reflects the Trump administration’s strong belief in U.S. tech supremacy and its willingness to collaborate with global partners on cutting-edge innovations in a secure environment.

Nigeria’s Growing Debt Crisis: How Did We Get Here?

Enyosa Favour

May 16, 2025

Nigeria’s debt has risen to concerning levels, with projections indicating that the total public debt could hit ₦187.79 trillion by the end of 2025. This alarming increase stems largely from persistent budget deficits, which the government has covered through extensive borrowing to fund infrastructure, support public spending, and maintain basic services.

Several factors have fueled the crisis, including heavy reliance on both domestic and external loans, currency devaluation, and weak financial governance. As of mid-2024, domestic borrowing made up 53% of the total debt, while external debt stood at around ₦63 trillion.

Debt servicing costs have surged. In the past year alone, Nigeria spent $4.66 billion on foreign debt payments, with $1.63 billion going to the IMF. These high repayments have triggered concerns about the sustainability of the debt and its long-term impact on economic development.

In response, the government has launched several fiscal reforms, such as fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification, aimed at improving revenue and cutting deficits. The World Bank has backed these reforms with a $2.25 billion loan to help mitigate the effects of inflation and support economic restructuring.

However, while fiscal reforms are important, Nigeria must go beyond borrowing. Corruption and poor governance have contributed to the rising debt, with funds sometimes borrowed for projects that are unnecessary or poorly executed. Mismanagement of resources continues to deepen the crisis and weaken public trust.

To truly reduce debt dependence, the country must invest in critical infrastructure such as power, transport, and manufacturing and boost local production to reduce imports and increase exports. Supporting agriculture is also essential; by increasing the value of agricultural products and expanding agro-processing industries, Nigeria can create jobs, feed its population, and earn more foreign exchange.

A sustainable solution will require fiscal discipline, diversified revenue sources, and a strong commitment to economic self-reliance. Only then can Nigeria move toward lasting stability and growth.

China Introduces One-Year Visa-Free Travel

Ohiomoje Margaret

May 16, 2025

China has introduced a new policy that grants citizens from five Latin American countries visa-free access for up to one year, in a bid to deepen regional partnerships.

Effective June 1, nationals from Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay can travel to China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, according to an announcement made by China’s Foreign Ministry on Thursday. This is part of a one-year trial arrangement.

“We welcome more foreign friends to visit China, to experience the colorful and vibrant China,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a daily briefing.

Earlier this week, Beijing hosted the China-CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum, reinforcing its push to build stronger relationships in the region and serve as a strategic counterbalance to U.S. influence.

In recent months, China has relaxed visa policies for several countries — including most European nations, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia — to help stimulate economic recovery following strict pandemic-era restrictions. Additionally, mutual visa-free access between China and Uzbekistan for up to 30 days will begin on the same date, as confirmed by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Violent Eruption of Japan’s Sakurajima Volcano Disrupts Flights

Ohiomoje Margaret

May 16, 2025

Mount Sakurajima, a well-known active volcano in Japan, erupted repeatedly on May 15 and 16, launching ash clouds as high as 3,000 meters and leading to the cancellation of 25 flights at Kagoshima Airport.

These cancellations left many travelers stranded, while airlines struggled to accommodate a sharp increase in rebooking and refund demands.

Flight disruptions as ash fills the skies
The volcanic activity, which started early on May 15, released dense ash clouds that drifted toward Kagoshima Airport. As a result, operations were halted from 5 pm.

Several major airlines, such as Japan Airlines (JAL) and Skymark Airlines, were forced to cancel flights connecting Tokyo Haneda, Osaka Itami, and Amami airports. One of JAL’s aircraft had to change course mid-flight to steer clear of the ash.

ANA All Nippon Airways proactively called off some services scheduled for May 16. Meanwhile, airport authorities stated they would monitor runway conditions throughout the night and use sweeping machines if necessary to remove volcanic material.

Passengers Stranded
As planes were grounded, many passengers turned to buses heading to Kagoshima City, causing significant crowding at bus terminals.

Staff at the airport noted an unusually high number of people at help desks, with many tourists frantically searching for accommodation and alternative transportation.

“This level of chaos is something we usually only see during typhoon season,” said an airport employee. “But unlike typhoons, volcanic eruptions are unpredictable, so we couldn’t prepare in advance.”

Extended eruption sparks safety alerts
The third eruption, which began at 10:45 a.m. on May 15, was the strongest and lasted over 12 hours, with loud explosive sounds continuing into the night.

Officials from Kagoshima’s meteorological office cautioned that if the eruptions extended beyond 3 a.m. on May 16, significant ash could fall over the mainland area. They advised motorists to be especially careful.

It’s the first occurrence since November 2019 that Sakurajima has continuously emitted smoke for more than ten hours. The ash plume soared as high as 3,000 meters.

La Liga Champions: How Lamine Yamal Drove Barcelona to Victory

Tosin Onisuuru

May 16, 2025

Under the guidance of German coach Hansi Flick, FC Barcelona clinched the 2024/25 La Liga title, marking their 28th league championship. The decisive moment came with a 2–0 victory over Espanyol in the Catalan derby, featuring goals from Lamine Yamal and Fermín López. This win was part of an impressive campaign that also saw Barcelona secure the Supercopa de España and the Copa del Rey, achieving a domestic treble.

Despite facing challenges mid-season, including a dip in form during November, the team demonstrated resilience by embarking on an unbeaten run of over 30 matches. This consistency, combined with pivotal victories in all Clásico matches against Real Madrid, underscored Barcelona’s dominance in Spanish football.

Lamine Yamal: Barcelona’s Teenage Sensation

Born on July 13, 2007, in Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain, Lamine Yamal is a product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy. He made his senior debut for the club at just 15 years old in April 2023. Standing at 1.80 meters, Yamal plays as a winger and is known for his exceptional dribbling, vision, and creativity on the field.

Internationally, Yamal has represented Spain across various youth levels and made his senior debut in 2023, becoming the youngest player to represent and score for the national team at age 16. He played a significant role in Spain’s UEFA Euro 2024 victory, earning the tournament’s Young Player Award.

His rapid rise has drawn comparisons to Lionel Messi, with Messi himself acknowledging Yamal’s potential, stating, “He has a huge future.”

Lamine Yamal’s Impact and Barcelona’s Future

Yamal’s influence on Barcelona’s attacking dynamics has been profound. His ability to challenge defenders and create opportunities has not only led to personal accolades but also opened up spaces for teammates, enhancing the team’s overall performance.

However, this reliance has raised concerns about over-dependence. Statistics indicate that Barcelona’s win percentage drops significantly in matches where Yamal is absent, highlighting the need for strategic planning to ensure team resilience.

Looking ahead, Yamal’s commitment to the club is evident. He has expressed a desire to remain with Barcelona long-term, aspiring to become a club legend.

Lamine Yamal’s emergence signals a promising future for FC Barcelona. His talent, coupled with the team’s recent successes, suggests a new era of potential dominance in both domestic and European competitions. As Yamal continues to develop, his journey will be pivotal in shaping the club’s trajectory in the coming years.

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