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Nigeria’s $5 Billion Startup Funding Under Threat: Matters Arising

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Nigeria’s ambitious goal of attracting $5 billion in startup funding by 2027 is facing serious headwinds, as investment inflows continue to shrink. 

Funding dropped dramatically from $1.2 billion in 2022 to an estimated $400 million across 2023 and 2024. Once Africa’s leading startup investment hub, Nigeria has now slipped to fourth place, trailing behind other emerging ecosystems on the continent. This sharp decline raises concerns about whether the country’s startup scene can maintain the momentum needed to reach its funding target within the next few years.

While global economic shifts have played a role in the slowdown, domestic challenges remain major stumbling blocks. Issues such as erratic power supply, policy inconsistency, and regulatory uncertainty continue to deter both local and foreign investors. Questions are also being raised about the effectiveness of the Nigeria Startup Act, which was introduced to support innovation and bridge funding gaps. For Nigeria to reverse this trend, it must not only restore investor confidence but also create a more stable and enabling environment for startups to thrive.

INEC Confirms 122 Applications for Political Party Registration

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‎The Independent National Electoral Commission has disclosed that it has obtained 12 additional applications from organizations seeking registration as political parties, raising the total number of applications being reviewed to 122.

‎This follows the commission’s previous statement on June 23, noting that it had received 110 applications.

‎The newly added associations include the Democratic Alternative Party, I Love Nigeria, Integrity Party of Nigeria, National Youth Progressive Party, Providence People’s Congress, Democratic Nigeria, United Nigeria Development Party, Alliance for a United Nigeria, African Independent Alliance, Greater Nigeria Movement, African Liberation Party, and Nigeria Farmers & Traders Progressive Party.

‎In a statement issued on Thursday, Sam Olumekun, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, INEC highlighted that the registration process continues to be transparent and equitable for all applicants.

‎“On Monday last week (23rd June 2025), the commission announced that it had received applications from 110 associations seeking registration as political parties.

‎“We also assured Nigerians that we will be giving regular updates on the matter. The commission is processing these applications transparently and in fairness to all applicants.

‎“Meanwhile, the commission has since received 12 more applications for registration as political parties as of yesterday, Wednesday 2nd July 2025, bringing the total number of applications to 122.

‎“The list of the new applications by names of associations, their acronyms, addresses, and interim chairmen and secretaries has been uploaded to our website and other platforms for public information.

‎“We will respond to these applicants in line with the Electoral Act and Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties 2022,” he stated.

‎INEC noted internal changes in some applicant associations, including the replacement of an interim secretary in one instance due to defection to another group.

‎The commission advised all applicants to maintain consistent leadership and contact details during the registration process to prevent delays.

‎“However, the commission notes that one association has already changed its interim Secretary as a result of defection to another association.

‎“To facilitate the consideration of these applications, the commission appeals to associations to maintain consistency of their proposed leadership and addresses so that they do not by their actions cause a delay to the timely consideration of their applications,” the statement added.

‎In connection with this, INEC issued Supplementary Regulations and Guidelines for reviewing election results, as provided under Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022.

‎The section permits INEC to examine declarations or returns that were made under duress or in breach of applicable laws and regulations.

‎“The provision to Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022 empowers the commission to review declarations and returns in elections that are not made voluntarily or done contrary to the law, regulations and guidelines for the election.

‎“Consequently, there have been many interpretations of Section 65 of the Electoral Act, making it necessary for the commission to use its powers under the law to issue regulations, guidelines or manuals to give effect to the provisions of the Act and for its administration,” the statement added.

‎It stated that clear procedures and timelines had been outlined, as detailed in Supplementary No.1 to the main regulations and guidelines for the Conduct of Elections 2022.

‎“As approved by the commission, the supplementary regulations and guidelines have been uploaded to the commission’s website and other platforms for public information,” the statement noted.

‎INEC also continued to highlight various irregularities in the applications received so far.

‎Some associations submitted duplicate acronyms, while others failed to include essential party officials.

‎Forty applications lacked a protem national secretary, five were submitted without a protem chairman, and seven were missing both positions.

‎Additionally, four associations did not provide an official contact address, while one application omitted a party logo.

‎Notably, three proposed parties — the New Green Generation Party, New Green Congress, and New Green Coalition Party — named the same individuals as interim officials.

‎The Republican Party of Nigeria filed two separate applications, each listing different leaders and addresses.

‎INEC restated that all submissions would be reviewed in accordance with the Electoral Act and its internal guidelines before a final decision is made.

Artificial Intelligence in Nigerian Classrooms

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) is beginning to shape conversations around the future of education in Nigeria, offering possibilities such as personalized learning, real-time feedback, automated grading, and streamlined administration. The technology promises to enhance both teaching and learning experiences but with that promise comes the critical question: are our schools truly ready? While AI could be a game-changer, its successful integration will depend on building digital infrastructure, training educators, and ensuring schools, especially in underserved areas, are not left behind.

At the heart of the conversation are important issues around equity, ethics, and long-term sustainability. AI must not only support teachers but also protect the integrity of learning, avoiding bias, protecting student data, and ensuring inclusivity across socioeconomic divides. As Nigeria explores this frontier, it must prioritize capacity building, strengthen policy frameworks, and create a roadmap that balances innovation with caution, ensuring that technology serves as a tool for progress, not a source of deeper educational inequality.

World Mourns As Footballer Star Diogo Jota Dies In Tragic Accident

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The football world has been plunged into mourning following the untimely death of Diogo Jota, the Portuguese international and Liverpool , who lost his life in a road accident in Spain alongside his brother, Andre Silva. The 28-year-old, known for his versatility, tenacity, and spirit on the field, leaves behind a grieving wife, three children, and a global community of fans and teammates devastated by the loss.

Since the heartbreaking news broke, tributes have poured in from football clubs, players, international institutions, and fans across the world, all trying to come to terms with a loss that feels deeply personal.

Liverpool in Mourning

Jota’s current club, Liverpool FC, confirmed his passing with a statement expressing the depth of their grief:

“The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre… We request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.”

Manager Arne Slot spoke with visible emotion:

“What can anyone say at a time like this? Diogo was not just our player. He was a loved one… we will celebrate him when the time is right, but now, we mourn.”

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, clearly shaken, said:

“There must be a bigger purpose… but I can’t see it. Diogo was not only a fantastic player, but a loving and caring husband and father.”

Captain Virgil van Dijk added:

“What a human being, what a player, what a family man. My heart is breaking… we will always be there for your family.”

From current and former teammates like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Darwin Núñez, and club legend Kenny Dalglish, the messages were the same—shock, sorrow, and a collective promise to remember and support his family.

Portuguese Football Devastated

As a proud member of Portugal’s golden generation, Jota’s death also sent shockwaves across his home country. The Portuguese Prime Minister, Luis Montenegro, described the news as “unexpected and tragic,” while Cristiano Ronaldo lamented,

“It doesn’t make sense… we were together just recently. I know you’ll always be with them. We’ll all miss you.”

Bruno Fernandes said,

“There are no words of consolation for so much pain. I will always remember you with your smile.”

From Ruben Neves to Pedro Proença, president of the Portuguese Football Federation, every voice echoed a national heartbreak.

Global Reactions

Tributes extended far beyond Portugal and England.

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin recalled the moment he presented Jota with a medal just weeks ago, now a memory “forever burned with sorrow.”

FIFA President Gianni Infantino described Jota as someone “with many great years ahead.”

LeBron James, co-owner of Liverpool, said:

“My prayers go out to his loved ones… YNWA JOTA!!”

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted that even beyond football fans, the grief is widespread, calling it a “devastating” loss.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria also joined in mourning the loss:

“We are sad to hear of the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and teammates at this time. May his soul rest in peace 💔

Clubs Pay Their Respects

Former club Wolverhampton Wanderers said:

“We are heartbroken… the memories he created will never be forgotten.”

His brother Andre’s club, FC Penafiel, announced official mourning and promised to honour both brothers in their upcoming fixtures:

“The loss of two young lives fills us with pain and consternation.”

Fans Share Their Pain

Beyond official statements, fans around the world turned to social media to express their sorrow:

A Liverpool fan, @REDSince1998, wrote:

“I didn’t like him at first… but he won me over. The boy had a big heart. Now he’s gone, and I’m numb.”

Another fan, @tacticsman1711, highlighted the personal tragedy:

“His wife has lost her soulmate. Three kids are now without their father. My heart truly aches for them.”

Diogo Jota’s death has left a profound silence in world football. As tributes continue to pour in from every corner of the sport, one thing is clear; he was deeply loved, admired, and respected. His absence will be felt for years to come.

Rest in peace, Diogo.

South Africa Mourns Former Deputy President David Mabuza

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South Africa is in mourning following the death of David Dabede Mabuza, a veteran politician and former Deputy President, who passed away on 3 July 2025 in Sandton. He was 64.

Born on 25 August 1960 in the rural settlement of Phola near Hazyview in what is now Mpumalanga Province, Mabuza rose from modest beginnings to become one of South Africa’s most influential—and at times controversial—political figures in the post-apartheid era.

A Teacher Turned Politician

Mabuza began his career as an educator. After matriculating from Khumbula High School, he earned a teaching diploma in mathematics education from Mgwenya College of Education in 1985. While pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of South Africa, he worked as a teacher and later served as Principal of Lungisani Secondary School between 1989 and 1993.

His early political consciousness was shaped by the Black Consciousness Movement and student activism. He served as secretary of the Azania Student Organisation (AZASO) and later led the South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU) from 1988 to 1991—an affiliate of the powerful Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU). These formative years laid the groundwork for a life in political service.

Climbing the Political Ladder

Following South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994, Mabuza was appointed MEC for Education in Mpumalanga by then-Premier Mathews Phosa. Though dismissed in 1998 after a scandal involving inflated matric results, Mabuza’s political career remained resilient. He returned to serve in various roles, including MEC for Housing (1999–2001) and later MEC for Agriculture and Land Administration (2008–2009).

Mabuza’s rise within the African National Congress (ANC) was equally strategic. He served as ANC Chairperson in Nelspruit (1994–1998) and became Provincial Chairperson from 2008 to 2017. In 2007, he was elected to the ANC’s National Executive Committee during the landmark Polokwane Conference, where he backed Jacob Zuma in the internal leadership battle against Thabo Mbeki.

His political influence grew steadily, particularly through the formation of the so-called “Premier League”, a bloc within the ANC that included Ace Magashule and Supra Mahumapelo. This alliance played a pivotal role in the 2017 ANC elective conference, helping Cyril Ramaphosa secure the party presidency. Mabuza himself was elected Deputy President of the ANC at that conference.

Deputy President of South Africa

In February 2018, following Jacob Zuma’s resignation, President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Mabuza as Deputy President of South Africa, a position he held until February 2023. His time in office was characterized by efforts to stabilize the ANC, navigate internal party dynamics, and support Ramaphosa’s reform agenda, though he was often seen as a behind-the-scenes power broker rather than a public-facing leader.

Mabuza’s leadership style was described as populist, and he was known for expanding the ANC’s support base in Mpumalanga through aggressive membership drives and grassroots mobilization.

Exit from Politics

In early 2023, Mabuza voluntarily offered to step down as Deputy President of the country, making way for Paul Mashatile, who had succeeded him as ANC Deputy President. His resignation was formally acknowledged in March 2023, marking the end of a significant chapter in South African politics.

Personal Life and Legacy

David Mabuza was married to Nonhlanhla Patience Mnisi, a real estate agent at Pam Golding. He previously had a relationship with Ruthi Funi Silinda, often referred to as his former fiancée or customary ex-wife, with whom he had a child.

Despite controversies throughout his career, including allegations of political manipulation and questions about corruption, Mabuza remained a significant figure in South African politics for over three decades. Supporters hailed him as a skilled political strategist and an advocate for rural communities, while critics accused him of enabling factionalism within the ANC.

Final Days

David Mabuza passed away on 3 July 2025 in Sandton. The cause of death has not yet been officially disclosed. His death marks the end of a complex and storied political journey that mirrored the evolving challenges of South Africa’s democratic experiment.

AFN Responds to Reports of Favour Ofili’s Possible Allegiance Switch

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The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has moved to address mounting concerns over athlete welfare following widespread reports that sprint star Favour Ofili may have switched her sporting allegiance to Turkey.

AFN President Tonobok Okowa confirmed that while there has been no official communication from either the athlete or World Athletics, the development has triggered serious introspection within Nigerian athletics.

“If Nigeria can invest more in athletes, it will go a long way,” Okowa said in an interview with Making of Champs. “We’re hearing that even countries in the Arab world are beginning to adopt similar strategies to what Turkey is doing. The concern isn’t only about Ofili—it’s also about others we haven’t yet heard about.”

Okowa emphasized that, although the news remains speculative, the situation highlights the urgent need for Nigeria to overhaul its athlete management and support systems.

The 22-year-old sprinter, who recently set a world record in the 150m at the Adidas Atlanta City Games, is said to be increasingly disillusioned with the Nigerian sports administration. She reportedly cited administrative lapses, which affected her participation in both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, as key reasons for her frustration.

Renowned Jamaican journalist Kayon Raynor reported that Ofili had communicated her discontent with both the AFN and the Nigeria Olympic Committee to the Athletics Integrity Unit.

Okowa acknowledged Ofili’s growing dissatisfaction and pointed to the lure of substantial financial incentives being offered by other nations as a major factor behind the increasing trend of nationality switches.

“She’s an adult and is working closely with her coach. Offers like these are hard to ignore,” he said.
“This isn’t just happening in Nigeria. Jamaican, Kenyan, and other athletes are also being approached. We need to see this in a global context.”

Turkey has reportedly intensified its recruitment of international talent, allegedly offering up to $500,000 to athletes willing to switch nationalities.

This trend echoes previous high-profile cases involving Nigerian athletes such as Francis Obikwelu (Portugal), Gloria Alozie (Spain), and Femi Ogunode (Qatar), all of whom went on to achieve significant international success after changing allegiances.

Okowa revealed that he had personally tried reaching out to Ofili and her family, with whom he previously shared a close relationship, but all communication efforts had been unsuccessful.

“I’ve tried multiple times to contact her. Suddenly, she blocked everyone. That’s when I realized something was wrong,” he said.

As of now, World Athletics still lists Ofili as a Nigerian athlete, and the Turkish Athletics Federation has not made any official announcement regarding her status. However, with the 2025 World Athletics Championships scheduled for September in Tokyo, her potential absence poses a significant blow to Nigeria’s medal hopes.

Ofili had already qualified for the global event, making the uncertainty surrounding her status all the more critical to Nigeria’s international athletic aspirations.

Court Orders Immediate Reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

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‎The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Binta Nyako, on Friday found Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, guilty of contempt for violating a court-imposed gag order.

‎The ruling stems from a satirical apology posted by the senator on her Facebook page on April 7, 2025, directed at Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which the court deemed a mockery of its directive.

‎The court ordered Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to publish a formal apology in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page within seven days. Additionally, she was fined ₦5 million for contempt in a civil proceeding.

‎However, the court declined to grant any relief to Akpabio, who had initiated the contempt action, stating that no further orders were warranted in his favor.

‎In a concurrent ruling, Justice Nyako addressed a suit filed by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan challenging her six-month suspension from the Senate, imposed on February 25, 2025, for alleged gross misconduct and a controversial Facebook post accusing Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello of conspiring against her.

‎The court declared the suspension “excessive” and disproportionate, noting that it deprived Kogi Central constituents of representation for nearly an entire legislative year, violating parliamentary fairness. The Senate was ordered to immediately reinstate the senator.

‎The court, however, upheld Akpabio’s decision to deny Akpoti-Uduaghan speaking rights during a plenary session, as she was not in her designated seat, in line with Senate Standing Rules. Justice Nyako criticized Chapter 8 of the Senate Standing Rules and Section 14 of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, describing them as overly punitive in this context.

‎Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan faces additional legal challenges, including a cybercrime case under Nigeria’s amended Cybercrimes Act, filed on May 22, 2025, over alleged defamatory statements against Akpabio and Bello.

‎The trial is scheduled for September 22, 2025. Despite these controversies, the court’s decision to reinstate her underscores the judiciary’s role in balancing parliamentary discipline with the right to representation.

FG Approves Reconstruction of Apapa, Tincan Ports

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‎The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a comprehensive reconstruction plan for the Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports in Lagos, a move aimed at revitalizing the nation’s maritime infrastructure and enhancing economic competitiveness.

‎The announcement, made on July 4, 2025, by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s seaports to meet global standards.

‎The reconstruction project is expected to address longstanding challenges at the two major ports, including dilapidated infrastructure, congestion, and inefficiencies that have hampered trade and logistics.

‎Apapa and Tin Can Ports, critical gateways for Nigeria’s import and export activities, handle over 70% of the country’s maritime cargo. However, years of neglect and overuse have led to delays, high operational costs, and reduced competitiveness compared to other African ports.

‎Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Minister Oyetola stated, “The approval for the reconstruction of Apapa and Tin Can Ports is a landmark decision by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. This project will not only decongest the ports but also improve efficiency, reduce turnaround times for vessels, and boost Nigeria’s trade capacity in the global market.”

‎The reconstruction plan includes upgrading port facilities, modernizing cargo handling equipment, deepening access channels, and improving road networks around the ports to ease traffic congestion.

‎The project also aims to integrate digital technologies for seamless port operations, aligning with international best practices. While the exact cost of the reconstruction was not disclosed, sources indicate that the government is exploring public-private partnerships (PPPs) to fund the initiative.

‎Stakeholders in the maritime sector have welcomed the announcement, with many expressing optimism about its potential to transform Nigeria’s economy.

‎“This is long overdue,” said Chinedu Okonkwo, a logistics expert based in Lagos.

‎“Modernizing these ports will reduce the cost of doing business, attract more foreign investment, and create thousands of jobs for Nigerians.”

‎However, some port users have called for transparency in the execution of the project, citing past instances where similar initiatives were stalled by mismanagement.

‎The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has assured stakeholders that a robust monitoring framework will be established to ensure timely and quality delivery of the project.

‎The reconstruction of Apapa and Tin Can Ports comes on the heels of other government efforts to bolster Nigeria’s maritime sector, including the recent launch of agricultural equipment to enhance food security.

‎Analysts believe that the port upgrades could position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in West Africa, reducing reliance on neighboring countries’ ports for trade.

‎The timeline for the commencement of the reconstruction was not specified, but the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has promised to release further details, including contractor selection and project milestones, in the coming weeks.

‎As Nigeria seeks to strengthen its economic resilience, the revitalization of these key ports is expected to play a pivotal role in driving growth and global competitiveness.

FG Unveils ₦50 Million Grant for STEM Students

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‎The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a ₦50 million grant initiative aimed at supporting high-performing students in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM) disciplines.

‎The program, unveiled by the Ministry of Education, targets undergraduates from 300 level and above in Nigerian universities, with the goal of fostering research and entrepreneurial ventures in critical sectors of the economy.

‎The announcement, made during a press briefing in Abuja on July 2, 2025, is part of the government’s broader strategy to drive innovation and address Nigeria’s technological and scientific challenges.

‎The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the grant would empower young Nigerians to develop solutions to pressing national issues, including energy, healthcare, and digital transformation.

‎“This ₦50 million grant is a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to building a knowledge-based economy,” Dr. Alausa stated.

‎“We are investing in our brightest minds in STEMM fields to ensure they have the resources to innovate, conduct groundbreaking research, and create entrepreneurial opportunities that will transform Nigeria.”

‎The grant is open to students who demonstrate academic excellence and innovative potential in their respective fields.

‎Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited Nigerian universities and have a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.0 or its equivalent. The funds can be used for research projects, prototype development, or startup ventures aligned with STEMM disciplines.

‎The initiative has been welcomed by stakeholders in the education sector, with university administrators and student leaders praising the government’s focus on STEMM. Prof. Aisha Mohammed, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, described the grant as a “game-changer” for students and the nation.

‎“This is a step in the right direction. Supporting STEMM students will not only boost academic research but also position Nigeria as a hub for technological innovation,” she said.

‎However, some students have raised concerns about the accessibility of the grant, urging the government to ensure transparency in the selection process.

‎“The criteria must be clear, and the process should be free from favoritism to truly benefit deserving students,” said Chinedu Okeke, a 400-level engineering student at Ahmadu Bello University.

‎The Ministry of Education has assured that a rigorous and transparent selection process will be implemented, with a dedicated committee overseeing the application and disbursement process.

‎Applications are set to open in August 2025, with further details to be provided through university portals and the ministry’s website.

‎The grant comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with brain drain in its STEMM sectors, as many talented graduates seek opportunities abroad. Analysts believe this initiative could help retain talent and encourage homegrown innovation.

‎The government has also hinted at plans to expand the program in subsequent years, potentially increasing the funding pool and including postgraduate students.

‎As Nigeria looks to strengthen its position in the global knowledge economy, the ₦50 million STEMM grant represents a significant step toward empowering the next generation of scientists, engineers, and medical professionals to drive national development.

Ugandan Military Helicopter Crashes in Somalia, Killing Five

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A Ugandan military helicopter deployed as part of the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia crashed at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport on Wednesday, claiming the lives of five passengers, according to Ugandan military spokesperson Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye.

The helicopter, carrying eight people, crashed just moments before landing. Three of the occupants survived, but suffered severe injuries and burns, Kulayigye confirmed.

The crash impact triggered the detonation of onboard munitions, which destroyed nearby structures and injured three civilians, he added.

In a statement, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) said search and rescue efforts were ongoing to recover all passengers and crew.

Eyewitness Farah Abdulle, who works at the airport, described the scene:

“We heard the blast and saw smoke and flames over a helicopter. The smoke entirely covered the helicopter.”

Photos from the scene showed thick smoke rising near the airport, consistent with the aftermath of the explosion.

Earlier reports from Somalia’s state-run SONNA confirmed that the helicopter had been engulfed in flames after crashing.

The helicopter was part of AUSSOM’s ongoing support mission in Somalia. The peacekeeping force includes over 11,000 personnel, working in collaboration with Somalia’s military to combat the al-Shabaab insurgency, an al-Qaeda-affiliated group that has been waging a violent campaign for nearly two decades to overthrow Somalia’s internationally recognized government and impose a harsh version of Sharia law.