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Ebola Spread In DR Congo ‘Deeply Alarming’, MSF Warns

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The rapid spread of Ebola in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has become “deeply alarming,” medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has warned, as health officials struggle to contain what is becoming one of the most serious outbreaks in recent years.

MSF issued the warning amid growing concerns that the outbreak is expanding faster than response efforts, with hundreds of suspected cases reported across parts of Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. The organization said medical teams on the ground are witnessing an epidemic that is moving quicker than containment measures can keep up with.

“The reality today is that nobody knows the true scale and severity of this outbreak,” MSF deputy director Alan Gonzalez said, noting that new suspected infections are being reported daily while hundreds of laboratory samples remain untested. The aid group warned that official figures may significantly underestimate the extent of transmission.

According to the latest reports from health authorities, the DRC has recorded 282 confirmed Ebola cases linked to the current outbreak, which is being driven by the rare Bundibugyo strain of the virus. More than 1,000 suspected cases are also under investigation. The outbreak has already caused dozens of deaths and spread beyond initial hotspots in Ituri province.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has described the situation as a major public health threat and recently declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has repeatedly warned that the epidemic is outpacing response efforts and that neighboring countries face a high risk of further spread.

Health officials say the outbreak is particularly difficult to control because it involves the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment. Researchers are working on experimental vaccine candidates, but experts say widespread deployment remains months away.

The crisis has been compounded by ongoing conflict and insecurity in eastern Congo. Armed violence has forced large population movements, disrupted healthcare services and made it difficult for medical teams to reach affected communities. WHO has called for an immediate ceasefire, arguing that continued fighting is helping the virus spread among displaced populations living in overcrowded camps and settlements.

Community mistrust has emerged as another major obstacle. Several treatment centers and hospitals have come under attack in recent weeks after families demanded the release of Ebola victims’ bodies for traditional burials. Health experts say such burial practices can significantly increase transmission because the virus remains highly contagious after death. In some cases, frightened patients reportedly fled treatment facilities following attacks by local residents.

Medical workers have also reported severe shortages of protective equipment, disinfectants and laboratory supplies. Some frontline doctors say they have been forced to purchase essential materials with their own money while struggling to care for growing numbers of patients. Aid agencies warn that underfunding and delayed assistance could further weaken containment efforts.

Despite the worsening outbreak, health officials have pointed to several recovery cases as evidence that early treatment can save lives. WHO recently recognized a group of healthcare workers who survived Ebola after receiving treatment, describing their recoveries as a source of hope amid the crisis.

Neighboring Uganda has already reported confirmed cases linked to the outbreak, prompting authorities to strengthen border controls and surveillance measures. Other countries have increased monitoring of travelers as fears grow that the virus could spread further beyond Central Africa.

With new suspected cases emerging daily and testing backlogs continuing to grow, international health organizations warn that the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the outbreak can be contained or develops into a much larger regional emergency.

Obasanjo Opens Up On 40-Year Battle With Diabetes, Shares Secrets To Staying Healthy

By
Enyosa Favour
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Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has revealed that he has been living with diabetes for over 40 years, describing the condition as one that cannot be cured but can be effectively managed through discipline and healthy living.

Obasanjo made the disclosure during the “Lagos to the World” event, where he spoke about his personal health journey and the lifestyle habits that have helped him manage the condition for decades.

According to the former president, his approach to managing diabetes revolves around maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, proper nutrition, adequate rest, and consistent medical care.

He explained that these practices have enabled him to remain stable despite living with the chronic illness for more than four decades.

Obasanjo also disclosed that he regularly plays squash whenever his schedule permits and consciously avoids unhealthy eating habits that could negatively affect his health.

While acknowledging that diabetes remains an incurable disease, he stressed that people living with the condition can lead healthy and productive lives if they remain committed to proper management and self-discipline.

As part of his message on healthy living, the former president introduced what he described as the “DREMS” model, an acronym for Diet, Rest, Exercise, and Medical care.

He encouraged Nigerians to embrace the model as a practical guide for maintaining good health and preventing lifestyle-related illnesses.

Obasanjo further advised citizens, especially older adults, to prioritise routine medical check-ups and avoid ignoring early signs of illness.

He noted that early detection and prompt medical intervention remain critical factors in managing health conditions effectively and improving long-term wellbeing.

Retired Defence Spokesman, Wife Kidnapped By Gunmen In Katsina

By
Enyosa Favour
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Suspected armed bandits have abducted retired Major General Rabe Abubakar and his wife in Katsina State. The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday along the Katsina–Matazu highway while the former military officer was travelling with his spouse.

According to reports, the vehicle conveying the couple was intercepted by heavily armed attackers in Matazu Local Government Area before they were taken to an unknown location.

Sources familiar with the incident disclosed that the driver of the vehicle managed to escape but sustained a gunshot wound during the attack.

Maj.-Gen. Abubakar (retd.) previously served as Director of Defence Information and was one of the most prominent spokespersons of the Nigerian Armed Forces, playing a key role in military communications and public engagement during his time in office.

The abduction has renewed concerns over the persistent security challenges in Nigeria’s North-West region, particularly in Katsina State, where cases of kidnapping and armed attacks have continued to affect residents and travellers.

As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident or ongoing efforts to secure the release of the retired general and his wife.

Iran War Day 94: US Strikes Iranian Drone Command Sites

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The conflict between the United States and Iran entered its 94th day on Monday with fresh military exchanges after American forces launched strikes on Iranian drone command facilities in southern Iran, marking another test of the fragile ceasefire that has largely held since April.

According to the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), American warplanes carried out what officials described as “self-defense strikes” on Iranian radar and drone command-and-control sites located in Goruk and on Qeshm Island near the Strait of Hormuz. The military said the operation took place over the weekend in response to what it called aggressive Iranian actions, including the reported shootdown of a US MQ-1 surveillance drone operating over international waters.

CENTCOM stated that US fighter aircraft also destroyed Iranian air-defense systems, a ground control station and two one-way attack drones that American officials said posed threats to commercial and military shipping in the region. No US personnel were reported injured during the operation.

The latest strikes represent the newest escalation in a conflict that began on February 28, when US and Israeli forces launched large-scale attacks on Iranian military targets, triggering a wider regional confrontation. Since then, the war has involved missile exchanges, drone attacks, naval incidents and repeated threats to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important energy corridors.

Iran has condemned the latest American action, arguing that it violates ongoing ceasefire arrangements. Iranian military officials warned that further attacks on Iranian territory would be met with retaliation. Tehran has repeatedly accused Washington of undermining diplomatic efforts aimed at reaching a permanent settlement to the conflict.

The exchange comes at a sensitive moment, as negotiators from both countries continue indirect talks focused on extending the ceasefire, reducing tensions in the Gulf and addressing disputes over Iran’s missile and nuclear programs. Despite recent optimism from both sides, repeated military incidents have exposed the fragility of the negotiations.

Security concerns remain particularly high around the Strait of Hormuz, where US forces have increased patrols and escorts for commercial vessels amid fears of further drone and missile attacks. The waterway handles a significant portion of global oil exports, making any disruption a major concern for international energy markets.

Recent satellite imagery and intelligence assessments have also indicated that Iran has been rebuilding parts of its underground missile infrastructure damaged during earlier phases of the war. Analysts say the reconstruction effort suggests Tehran is seeking to preserve its long-term military capabilities despite months of airstrikes and economic pressure.

Military analysts warn that while both Washington and Tehran continue to publicly support negotiations, the repeated cycle of strikes and retaliatory actions risks pushing the conflict into a new phase. The latest US operation against Iranian drone facilities underscores how quickly tensions can flare despite ongoing diplomatic contacts.

With the war now entering its fourth month, regional governments and international observers remain concerned that any major miscalculation could trigger a broader Middle East confrontation, particularly around the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.

Nigeria’s Kayinsola Ajayi Becomes World’s Fastest Man In 2026, Sets New National Record

By
Emenike Agu
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His time of 9.84s (0.4m/s) eclipsed the previous Nigerian national record of 9.85s set by Olusoji Fasuba in 2006, a mark many believed would stand for years to come.

Nigeria has a new fastest man after Kanyinsola Ajayi clocked a stunning 9.84 seconds in the men’s 100m at the NCAA East Regionals on Friday, breaking the national record and setting a new benchmark in Nigerian sprinting.

The 21-year-old Auburn University athlete produced the performance of his life to win his heat, qualify for the NCAA Championships, and erase a record that had stood for nearly two decades.

His time of 9.84s (0.4m/s) eclipsed the previous Nigerian national record of 9.85s set by Olusoji Fasuba in 2006, a mark many believed would stand for years to come.

The remarkable run also elevated Ajayi to the top of the global rankings for 2026, making him the world leader in the event so far this season

Beyond the national record, Ajayi’s performance ranks as the second-fastest 100m ever recorded in collegiate history, further underlining the scale of the achievement.

Key to success

Speaking after the race in an interview with Making of Champions, an emotional Ajayi revealed that the performance was the result of trust in his preparation and faith in God.

“My coach told me what to do. I knew I was in good shape, so I just had to come here and execute,” he said.

Ajayi had already hinted at something special when he comfortably ran 9.90s in the earlier rounds. Yet even he appeared surprised by the magnitude of his achievement.

Asked about breaking Fasuba’s long-standing national record, he said: “I’ve always been dreaming about it. God made it happen, so I’m very grateful to God.”

The Nigerian sprinter also insisted that his focus remains on self-improvement rather than comparisons with rivals ahead of the NCAA Championships.

“It is me versus myself. I’m not thinking about anybody else. I just have to focus and do what I have to do,” he said.

Ajayi added that he plans to maintain his current form and stay healthy as he targets more success at the NCAA Championships before turning his attention to the Commonwealth Games later in the year and the 2027 World Athletics Championships.

PSG Break Arsenal To Retain UEFA Champions League Title

By
Emenike Agu
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Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain F.C. have successfully retained the UEFA Champions League title after defeating Arsenal F.C. in a tense and emotionally charged penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time.

The final, played at an intensity worthy of European football’s biggest stage, swung between early Arsenal dominance and PSG resilience before ultimately being decided by nerve rather than open play quality.

Arsenal looked destined for history when Kai Havertz struck in the sixth minute, giving the Premier League champions a dream start. However, PSG, led by Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, responded in trademark fashion, grinding their way back into the contest and eventually equalising through a penalty in the 65th minute.

After extra time failed to produce a winner, the final moved into penalties, where PSG held their nerve to secure victory and retain their European crown.

A final defined by margins and mental strength

This was not a final decided by tactical inferiority or lack of quality. Instead, it was shaped by fine margins, psychological strength and execution under extreme pressure.

Arsenal’s early goal allowed them to dictate phases of the match, but PSG’s experience as defending champions became increasingly important as the game progressed. The French side managed to slow the tempo, disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm and drag the contest into a physical and mental battle.

By the time extra time arrived, both sides had exhausted their attacking fluidity, turning the match into a test of endurance and composure.

Havertz’s early strike set the tone

Arsenal’s breakthrough in the sixth minute through Kai Havertz was a statement of intent. The goal reflected Arsenal’s aggressive start, tactical discipline and willingness to seize control of the occasion early.

At that point, the momentum clearly belonged to the Gunners. Their pressing was sharp, their transitions were quick, and PSG struggled to settle into their usual rhythm.

However, football at the highest level is rarely decided early. PSG absorbed the pressure, adjusted their structure and slowly re-entered the contest.

Dembélé’s equaliser restores PSG control

The turning point came in the 65th minute when Ousmane Dembélé converted from the penalty spot to level the match.

That moment shifted the psychological balance of the final. PSG, already experienced in handling high-pressure European nights, grew in confidence, while Arsenal were forced to confront the reality that their early advantage had disappeared.

From that point onward, the match became increasingly balanced, with both sides prioritising control and caution over risk-taking.

Extra time: A battle without a breakthrough

The additional 30 minutes produced tension rather than goals.

Arsenal attempted to regain attacking control, while PSG remained compact and disciplined, ensuring they did not expose themselves unnecessarily. Fatigue became a visible factor, with both teams struggling to maintain intensity in the final third.

As chances dried up, the inevitability of penalties began to shape the atmosphere inside the stadium.

The shootout: Nerve deciding champion

Penalty shootouts are often described as football’s cruelest decider, and this final reinforced that reality.

Arsenal’s Eberechi Eze and PSG’s Nuno Mendes both missed their attempts, adding to the tension and unpredictability of the shootout.

The decisive moment arrived when Gabriel Jesus failed to convert for Arsenal, handing PSG the advantage they needed to clinch the trophy.

In that instant, years of preparation, tactical planning and season-long effort were distilled into a single moment of execution.

PSG’s winning mentality as defending champions

For PSG, this victory is more than just another trophy. Retaining the Champions League title places them firmly in the category of elite European dynasties.

Their ability to withstand Arsenal’s early pressure, recover from a setback and ultimately prevail in a penalty shootout highlights their psychological resilience and championship mentality.

The influence of experienced leaders such as Ousmane Dembélé also proved crucial in guiding the team through moments of adversity.

Arsenal’s pain and progress in equal measure

For Arsenal, the defeat will be devastating given how close they came to completing a historic double.

Yet, despite the heartbreak, their broader campaign cannot be dismissed. A first Premier League title in 22 years, combined with a Champions League final appearance, signals a team that has fully returned to the elite level of European football.

Under Mikel Arteta, the transformation from inconsistent contenders to genuine champions has been clear. The final step in Europe proved elusive, but the foundation for sustained success is now firmly in place.

A season that redefines both clubs

This final may be remembered differently in both camps.

For PSG, it confirms dominance and continuity at the top of European football. For Arsenal, it represents both progress and pain, a reminder that the final step toward greatness is often the hardest.

In the end, the Champions League was decided not by domination, but by moments. And in those moments, PSG held their nerve just enough to retain their crown.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles Batter Jamaica,  Retain Unity Cup

By
Emenike Agu
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0

Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered their most convincing performance under coach Eric Chelle on Saturday night, defeating Jamaica 3-0 in the final of the Unity Cup in London to successfully defend their title and reinforce growing optimism around the national team’s rebuilding process.

The victory completed a flawless campaign for the Super Eagles, who had earlier overcome Zimbabwe in the semi-final before producing a dominant display against the Reggae Boyz to lift the trophy in style.

Alhassan Yusuf emerged as the star of the night, scoring in the 3rd minute and again in stoppage time at 90+1 minutes, while Terem Moffi added Nigeria’s second goal in the 59th minute to complete a comprehensive victory that underlined the growing confidence within the squad.

For a team that has spent recent years battling inconsistency, criticism and disappointment, the manner of the victory carried even greater significance than the trophy itself.

Nigeria not only won the tournament but also showed greater tactical organization, improved squad depth and a renewed sense of confidence that has often been missing from the national side in recent years.

Early goal settles Nigeria nerves

The Super Eagles wasted little time asserting their authority in the final.

Midfielder Alhassan Yusuf stunned Jamaica with a third-minute strike that immediately placed Nigeria in control of proceedings. The early breakthrough handed the Super Eagles a dream start and allowed them to dictate the tempo of the game from the outset.

Unlike previous matches where Nigeria often struggled to maintain momentum after taking the lead, the team remained focused and disciplined, preventing Jamaica from finding any meaningful rhythm.

The early advantage also reflected the aggressive approach adopted by Chelle, whose players pressed high and forced the Caribbean side into repeated mistakes.

Moffi’s strike kills Jamaican resistance

Although Jamaica attempted to regroup after the interval, Nigeria continued to dominate key areas of the pitch.

The breakthrough that effectively ended the contest arrived in the 59th minute when Terem Moffi found the back of the net to double Nigeria’s advantage.

The goal rewarded the Super Eagles’ sustained pressure and highlighted the attacking quality that many supporters have long wanted to see from the national team.

Moffi’s contribution was particularly significant given the growing competition for attacking positions within the squad. With established stars and emerging talents all vying for places, every performance now carries added importance.

His goal ensured that Nigeria remained firmly in command and left Jamaica facing an uphill task.

Yusuf crowns brilliant display with late goal

As Jamaica pushed forward in search of a consolation goal, Nigeria remained composed and dangerous on the counterattack.

The Super Eagles eventually added a third goal deep into stoppage time when Alhassan Yusuf struck again in the 90+1 minute to complete his brace and cap a memorable individual performance.

The late strike not only sealed the result emphatically but also reflected Nigeria’s determination to maintain concentration until the final whistle.

Yusuf’s two-goal performance made him one of the standout figures of the tournament and provided further evidence of the depth gradually emerging within the national team setup.

Super Eagles show growing tactical maturity

Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of the victory was the discipline shown across the pitch.

For years, Nigeria’s national team has faced criticism for relying heavily on individual brilliance rather than functioning as a complete tactical unit.

Against Jamaica, however, the Super Eagles displayed greater cohesion between defence, midfield and attack.

The defensive line remained organized, the midfield controlled transitions effectively and the attacking players pressed aggressively whenever possession was lost.

Those qualities have often separated successful international teams from talented but inconsistent sides.

The final therefore provided one of the strongest indications yet that Chelle may be gradually establishing a clearer football identity for Nigeria.

Unity Cup success offers relief after World Cup frustrations

The triumph comes at a crucial moment for Nigerian football.

The disappointment surrounding the Super Eagles’ struggles during recent FIFA World Cup qualification campaigns continues to cast a shadow over the national team.

Repeated dropped points against lower-ranked opponents exposed weaknesses in tactical organization, squad management and mental resilience.

Supporters who expected Nigeria to dominate qualification fixtures were instead left frustrated by avoidable setbacks that complicated the country’s path to the global tournament.

Those disappointments intensified pressure on the Nigeria Football Federation and heightened scrutiny of every national team performance.

Winning the Unity Cup may not erase those frustrations completely, but it offers an important psychological boost for both players and supporters.

Chelle beginning to win over skeptics

When Eric Chelle assumed responsibility for the Super Eagles, many supporters questioned whether he possessed the experience required to handle one of Africa’s most demanding football jobs.

Nigeria’s national team carries enormous expectations and coaches rarely receive much patience when results fail to match public ambition.

The Unity Cup success may not silence every critic, but it certainly strengthens Chelle’s position.

More importantly, the team appears to be showing visible improvement in areas that supporters have repeatedly demanded, including organization, discipline and tactical clarity.

Those developments could become more valuable in the long term than the trophy itself.

A trophy that could restore belief

Football has always occupied a special place within Nigerian society.

At moments of national difficulty, the Super Eagles often become one of the few symbols capable of uniting millions of people across ethnic, religious and political divides.

That reality explains why victories such as Saturday’s triumph resonate beyond sport.

The 3-0 victory over Jamaica may not solve every challenge facing Nigerian football, but it has restored belief.

For the first time in a long while, supporters are beginning to see signs of a team developing direction, structure and purpose.

And after years of uncertainty, lifting the Unity Cup in such commanding fashion may prove to be a defining moment in the early stages of Chelle’s reign.

Celtic Weigh Up Contract Extension For Iheanacho After Title-Winning Campaign

By
Emenike Agu
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Scottish Premiership champions Celtic are expected to make a decision on Kelechi Iheanacho’s  future in the coming weeks LN247 can confirm.

The Nigeria international joined Brendan Rodgers’ side last summer on a one-year contract, with the club retaining an option to extend his stay for a further season.

Footy-Africa’s sources close to the situation have indicated that the extension clause can be activated solely at Celtic’s discretion, giving the club full control over whether Iheanacho remains at Parkhead beyond this summer.

Despite enduring an injury-hit campaign, Iheanacho played an important role in Celtic’s successful season, helping the club secure both the Scottish Premiership title and the Scottish Cup. The former Leicester City forward returned from fitness setbacks at a crucial stage of the campaign and contributed several important goals as Celtic completed a domestic double.

Footy-Africa understands that no final decision has been taken regarding the 29-year-old’s future. While Iheanacho is believed to be open to remaining in Glasgow, the next move rests firmly with the Scottish champions.

The feeling within Celtic is that there is significant appreciation for the striker’s quality and experience. However, concerns remain over his fitness record after he missed several key matches throughout the season.

Iheanacho made 24 appearances across all competitions during the campaign, although only eight of those came as starts. He completed the full 90 minutes on just two occasions but still managed to score nine goals and provide one assist.

The club are expected to enter the transfer market in search of a first-choice striker this summer, although Iheanacho could still have a role to play as a valuable squad option, particularly amid uncertainty surrounding the future of Japanese forward Daizen Maeda.

Should Celtic opt against activating the extension clause, the former Manchester City forward is unlikely to be short of offers. He has already attracted interest from several clubs in Turkey ahead of the summer transfer window.

US Not ‘Turning Back’ On Asia Allies, But Expects Them To Boost Defence Spending — Hegseth

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reassured Asian allies that Washington is not retreating from its commitments in the Indo-Pacific region, while urging partner nations to significantly increase their defence spending and military preparedness in response to growing security threats, particularly from China.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue security summit in Singapore, Hegseth said the United States remains fully committed to its alliances and partnerships across Asia despite concerns that Washington’s focus on conflicts in Europe and the Middle East could weaken its engagement in the region.

“The United States is not turning its back on the Indo-Pacific,” Hegseth told regional defence leaders and military officials. “But our allies and partners must do more. Security is a shared responsibility.”

The remarks come amid heightened tensions across the Indo-Pacific, including disputes in the South China Sea, increasing Chinese military activity around Taiwan, North Korea’s missile programmes, and concerns about regional security competition.

Hegseth stressed that the U.S. military presence in Asia remains strong and that Washington continues to view the region as a strategic priority. He pointed to ongoing cooperation with allies such as Japan, South Korea, Australia, and the Philippines, as well as growing security partnerships with countries including India and Singapore.

However, he argued that regional governments must contribute more resources to their own defence capabilities rather than relying heavily on American military support.

“We welcome strong allies, but deterrence requires investment,” Hegseth said, adding that nations facing increasing security risks should accelerate military modernization efforts and expand defence budgets.

The Pentagon chief’s comments reflect a broader policy position within the administration of President Donald Trump, which has repeatedly called on U.S. allies in Europe and Asia to shoulder a greater share of defence costs. Washington has argued that stronger local military capabilities are essential for maintaining regional stability and deterring potential aggression.

Much of Hegseth’s speech focused on China, which he described as the most significant long-term strategic challenge facing the United States and its allies. He warned that Beijing’s military expansion and increasingly assertive actions in the region have raised concerns among neighbouring countries.

According to Hegseth, China is rapidly modernizing its armed forces, expanding naval capabilities, and increasing pressure on Taiwan. He said the United States would continue working with partners to preserve freedom of navigation and maintain stability in international waters and airspace.

Chinese officials have consistently rejected accusations that Beijing threatens regional stability, arguing that its military activities are defensive in nature and aimed at protecting national sovereignty. China has also criticized growing U.S. military deployments and alliance-building efforts in the region, describing them as attempts to contain China’s rise.

The Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia’s premier annual security forum, has become an important platform for discussions on strategic competition between the United States and China. Defence ministers, military commanders, diplomats, and security experts from across the world attended this year’s gathering amid growing uncertainty over global security.

Hegseth also highlighted recent U.S. military cooperation initiatives, including expanded joint exercises with regional allies, enhanced intelligence-sharing arrangements, and increased deployment of advanced military assets throughout the Indo-Pacific.

His remarks were welcomed by several U.S. allies, though some regional governments remain cautious about balancing security cooperation with Washington against maintaining economic ties with China, which remains the largest trading partner for many Asian countries.

Security analysts say Hegseth’s message reflects Washington’s effort to reassure allies while simultaneously pushing them toward greater military self-reliance. Experts note that many Indo-Pacific countries have already begun increasing defence budgets in recent years amid concerns over regional tensions.

According to data from the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), defence spending across Asia has risen steadily over the past decade, driven largely by military modernization programmes in Japan, South Korea, Australia, India, and several Southeast Asian nations.

The Pentagon maintains that a stronger network of capable regional partners is essential for preserving stability in the Indo-Pacific as geopolitical competition intensifies. Hegseth said the United States would remain engaged in the region but emphasized that future security challenges require a collective response rather than dependence on any single nation.

“We are here to stay,” Hegseth said. “But enduring peace comes when allies stand strong together.”

‘If I Become President, Drone Will Be My Minister of Defence’ — Sowore

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

Activist and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has said he would appoint a drone as Nigeria’s minister of defence if he becomes president, insisting that technology remains the key to tackling insecurity in the country.

Sowore made the remark during a live interview on Arise TV on Thursday, where he outlined his security strategy and criticised the current handling of the nation’s defence system.

The AAC presidential candidate said Nigeria’s worsening security situation could only be addressed through modern technology, proper equipment and responsible leadership within the armed forces.

According to him, the military needs commanders who are committed to fighting insecurity instead of remaining in Abuja.

“We have to have honest leaders and supervisors and officers who are not staying in Abuja fighting over land but actually fighting wars, generals who can actually strategise and do what is right,” he said.

Sowore also said the police should concentrate on maintaining internal security rather than carrying out duties outside their primary responsibilities.

“A police force that can carry out internal security of the country, not escorting people or arresting people for insulting others on Facebook,” he said.

He further explained that his proposed security structure would rely heavily on drones and artificial intelligence to monitor and eliminate threats across the country.

“I’m just going to have a control centre where people sit down and track terrorists and liquidate them,” he said.

Responding to a suggestion by the interviewer that artificial intelligence could also serve as defence minister, Sowore said it would form part of the strategy.

“That’s part of it. And that drone will fly everywhere.”

Despite his emphasis on technology, Sowore maintained that solving insecurity also requires improving the living conditions of citizens, especially young people vulnerable to recruitment by armed groups.

“Ultimately, you must create a society where people can find jobs and go to school, and not be willing to take up arms.”

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