On Thursday, US lawmakers introduced a bill to prohibit the use of DeepSeek, a Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) program, on government devices, citing serious concerns about user data security.
The bipartisan bill was presented by Representative Josh Gottheimer, a Democrat from New Jersey, and Representative Darin LaHood, a Republican from Illinois. They warned of “direct ties” between DeepSeek and the Chinese government, calling it an “alarming threat to US national security.”
The legislative move follows a recent report by US cybersecurity firm Feroot Security, which found that DeepSeek’s AI model contains hidden code capable of transmitting user data to China Mobile, a state-owned telecom giant.
DeepSeek made headlines last month after launching an affordable yet high-performing chatbot, intensifying competition in the global AI race and challenging the dominance of US tech firms.
Gottheimer stated that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is actively using technology to undermine US security, spread disinformation, and collect data on American citizens. LaHood reinforced this stance, calling DeepSeek a “CCP-affiliated company” that must not be allowed access to sensitive government or personal information.
Beyond the US, other nations are also taking action. South Korean government agencies and police have begun blocking DeepSeek after the company failed to respond to a data watchdog inquiry about its data management practices. Australia, following security agency recommendations, has banned DeepSeek from all government devices, while France and Italy have raised concerns over its data policies.
In a related development, TikTok is facing legal pressure in the US, where a new law mandates that its parent company, ByteDance, divest its ownership or risk being banned nationwide.
China has strongly opposed U.S. efforts to undermine the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), accusing the U.S. of using forceful tactics to sabotage the cooperation. Additionally, China expressed disappointment over Panama’s decision not to extend the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the BRI.
This statement was made by Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian during a regular virtual press conference in Beijing on Friday. His remarks came after Panama’s President, José Mulino, announced that he had instructed the government to send a 90-day notice for withdrawing from the Belt and Road cooperation agreement with China.
Lin stated, “China firmly opposes the U.S. smear and sabotage of Belt and Road cooperation through the means of pressuring and coercion, and deeply regrets Panama’s decision to not renew the MoU on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).”
He highlighted that the BRI is a global economic initiative involving more than 150 countries, including over 20 Latin American and Caribbean nations, with many countries, including Panama, benefiting from its outcomes.
“Over the years, China and Panama’s collaboration within the BRI has resulted in tangible and positive outcomes for both nations,” he added. “We hope Panama will consider the broader bilateral relationship and long-term benefits for both peoples, avoid external interference, and make a wise decision.”
Lin also addressed the timing of Panama’s withdrawal from the agreement, coinciding with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit, suggesting China had responded accordingly.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Panama, their bilateral ties have grown rapidly, with both nations achieving substantial progress under the BRI framework.
During the press conference, Lin also discussed China’s ongoing efforts in global Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance. He revealed that Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing would attend the AI Action Summit on global governance in France from February 9 to 12.
“China is an active advocate and practitioner of AI global governance,” Lin explained, noting President Xi Jinping’s Global Initiative for AI governance announced in October 2023. He also mentioned a joint declaration between China and France on AI governance, made during Xi’s visit to France in May 2024, in which China expressed its willingness to participate in the AI Action Summit in 2025.
Zhang’s attendance at the Summit as Xi’s special representative is part of China’s commitment to advancing the development and security of AI globally. Lin emphasized that the summit aims to foster global cooperation and enhance communication on AI governance.
“We look forward to working with all countries to shape a framework for AI governance that is based on broad consensus and benefits everyone,” he concluded.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has firmly rejected what he calls “bullying” tactics following the U.S. government’s decision to freeze global aid for 90 days, including funding for South Africa’s HIV/AIDS programs, which account for 17% of the country’s HIV-related expenditure.
During his annual address, Ramaphosa warned against the rise of nationalism and protectionism, stressing that South Africa would not be pressured by external forces. The funding freeze, initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump, also came with a threat to cut all U.S. assistance over South Africa’s land expropriation law, which Trump described as a “massive human rights violation.”
Dismissing these allegations as misinformation, Ramaphosa clarified that the law is designed to redistribute unused land while upholding legal safeguards. Meanwhile, his administration is exploring alternative ways to sustain HIV/AIDS services despite the financial setback.
In response to economic challenges, Ramaphosa also unveiled a $50 billion infrastructure plan aimed at revitalizing South Africa’s economy, emphasizing the nation’s resilience in navigating global political shifts.
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has announced a 15% increase in port tariffs, marking the first adjustment since 1993. The move aims to enhance efficiency and boost Nigeria’s port competitiveness.
However, the decision has faced pushback from manufacturers, who argue that the higher charges will further escalate operational costs in an already struggling economy.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos, Olalekan Badmus, NPA’s Executive Director of Marine and Operations, who represented Managing Director Abubakar Dantsoho, emphasized the need to modernize port infrastructure and enhance efficiency. He noted that global ports rely on revenue from operational charges to fund critical infrastructure maintenance, security, digitalization, and workforce development.
“This long-overdue tariff review is essential for Nigeria to regain lost cargo traffic and secure the economic benefits that come with it,” Badmus stated.
Despite concerns over rising costs, Dantsoho argued that NPA’s tariffs remain among the lowest in the region and attributed port inefficiencies to bureaucratic bottlenecks, excessive human intervention, and the lack of a Port Community System (PCS).
Manufacturers Express Concerns Over Higher Costs
The Apapa Chapter of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has strongly opposed the tariff increase, warning that it could have severe economic repercussions.
Chairman Cyprian Orakpo highlighted that port charges significantly impact manufacturers since most raw materials and industrial equipment are imported through the ports.
“Businesses are already struggling with rising operational costs, foreign exchange volatility, and high energy prices. Imposing additional financial burdens through increased port tariffs will only worsen the situation,” Orakpo stated.
MAN warned that the tariff hike could lead to:
Higher product prices and inflation
Reduced competitiveness of Nigerian manufacturers in local and global markets
Increased smuggling, as businesses seek cheaper alternatives in neighboring ports
Lower government revenue, due to a decline in cargo throughput and manufacturing output
Instead of raising tariffs, MAN has urged the NPA to engage in stakeholder dialogue to explore alternative strategies for improving port efficiency and reducing operational bottlenecks without harming the industrial sector.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu On Thursday, February 6, 2025, removed Professor Aisha Sani Maikurdi as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, now renamed Yakubu Gowon University. Her removal came just over a month after she officially assumed office on January 1, 2025.
The Controversial Appointment
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to remove Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi from her role as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, now renamed Yakubu Gowon University, has sparked significant attention. The drama surrounding her removal began with her initial appointment as Acting Vice-Chancellor in June 2024, which was met with controversy.
Allegations of irregularities in the selection process surfaced, with claims that the governing council had dismissed over 87 applications, leaving only three shortlisted candidates. Maikudi’s selection was seen by some as biased, leading to unrest within the academic community.
Maikudi’s Appointment and Short Tenure
Despite the controversy, Maikudi was confirmed as the substantive Vice-Chancellor on January 1, 2025. However, her tenure was unexpectedly cut short. On February 6, 2025, President Tinubu announced the dissolution of the university’s governing council and her removal from office. This decision was part of Tinubu’s broader strategy to revitalize Nigeria’s higher education system.
The Goal of the Restructuring
President Tinubu’s actions aim to bring dynamic leadership and accountability to Nigerian universities. His decision to remove Maikudi was part of an effort to strengthen governance and enhance academic excellence, aligning with the government’s vision for reform in the higher education sector. The leadership changes are expected to drive improved standards and practices at Yakubu Gowon University.
Other Significant Leadership Changes in Nigerian Universities
The restructuring did not end at Yakubu Gowon University. Several other federal universities have experienced leadership changes under President Tinubu’s directive:
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN): Professor Polycarp Emeka Chigbu was removed as Acting Vice-Chancellor, and Professor Oguejiofu T. Ujam was appointed as his successor for six months. Ujam will also not be eligible for the permanent position.
What’s Next For UniAbuja?
In place of Maikudi, Professor Lar Patricia Manko was appointed Acting Vice-Chancellor for a six-month term. However, Manko will not be eligible to apply for the permanent position once it becomes vacant. This move reflects the President’s commitment to ensuring that future leadership changes are in line with best practices and institutional goals.
Pro-Chancellorship Changes:
Senator Lanre Tejuoso was appointed Pro-Chancellor of Yakubu Gowon University, replacing the former Pro-Chancellor.
Senator Joy Emordi will now serve as Pro-Chancellor of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi.
Engineer Olubunmi Kayode Ojo was appointed Pro-Chancellor of UNN, taking over from Gen. Ike Nwachukwu, who was reassigned to the University of Uyo.
Professor Zubairu Tajo Abdullahi was named Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University of Lokoja, replacing Ojo.
Senator Sani Stores is now the Pro-Chancellor of Alvan Ikoku University of Education, succeeding Senator Emordi.
Barrister Olugbenga Kukoyi was appointed Pro-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
President Tinubu’s decisions reflect his administration’s determination to overhaul Nigeria’s higher education sector, ensuring leadership is accountable and effective. These changes, effective immediately, are part of a larger effort to strengthen governance, academic excellence, and overall institutional integrity across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. As these new appointments take effect, the future of these universities will depend on the implementation of reforms and the leadership strategies of the newly appointed officials.
The highly anticipated Serie A clash between Fiorentina and Inter Milan on February 6, 2025, was unlike any other. The match resumed from the 17th minute, following an unprecedented event that occurred on December 1, 2024. During the original fixture, Roma midfielder Edoardo Bove, who was on loan at Fiorentina, suffered a sudden cardiac arrest on the pitch, leading to an immediate suspension of the game.
Medical staff responded swiftly, stabilizing Bove before he was rushed to the hospital. The gravity of the situation led Serie A to halt the match, adhering to protocol in cases of medical emergencies. After months of deliberation, it was decided that the game would restart from the 17th minute, maintaining the integrity of the fixture while honoring the dramatic circumstances that led to its suspension.
Edoardo Bove’s Health Scare and Career Implications
Following extensive medical evaluations, Bove was diagnosed with a heart condition that required an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) to regulate his heartbeat. While this device ensured his safety, Italian football regulations prohibit players with an ICD from participating in professional matches. This devastating news effectively ended his Serie A career, although he could potentially play in other leagues where such restrictions do not apply.
Despite the setback, Bove remained in good spirits and attended the rescheduled match at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, where he was met with an outpouring of support from fans and players alike. His resilience in the face of adversity became a source of inspiration for Fiorentina, motivating the squad to put on a dominant performance.
Match Resumption: Unique Serie A Rules in Play
Restarting a match from a specific minute is rare in football, but Serie A’s regulations dictated that all statistics, player selections, and suspensions from the original game would remain valid. This meant that:
Players who were suspended or substituted before the 17th minute in the first game could play.
Any new signings made after December 1, 2024, were ineligible to participate.
Fiorentina had to field a squad with several U-19 players due to January transfer window limitations.
These unusual circumstances made the match even more unpredictable, but Fiorentina adapted well to the constraints, fielding a team that proved to be more than a match for Inter Milan.
Fiorentina’s Dominant Performance Against Inter Milan
Despite being the underdogs, Fiorentina put on a clinical display, dismantling Inter Milan 3-0. The goals came from:
Luca Ranieri (60’) – The defender broke the deadlock with a powerful header from a well-delivered corner.
Moise Kean (78’, 85’) – The former Juventus forward capitalized on a pinpoint cross from Dodo before sealing the victory with a calm finish after a defensive lapse from Inter’s Federico Dimarco.
Inter Milan struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match, failing to break down Fiorentina’s resolute defense. The loss dented their Serie A title hopes, as they fell behind league leaders Juventus in the standings.
Edoardo Bove’s Presence and Emotional Impact on the Match
Bove’s presence in the stands added an emotional layer to the match. Before kickoff, both teams honored him with a moment of applause, acknowledging his courage and determination. Fiorentina’s players dedicated their victory to him, with captain Cristiano Biraghi stating post-match:
“This win is for Edoardo. He fought for his life on this pitch, and today we fought for him.”
The touching tribute underscored how football extends beyond competition—it’s also about unity, resilience, and respect for those who contribute to the game.
What This Result Means for Fiorentina and Inter Milan
Fiorentina’s win bolstered their push for European qualification, injecting confidence into their squad as they entered the final stretch of the season. For Inter Milan, the defeat exposed vulnerabilities in their attack and defensive structure, raising concerns about their ability to maintain their title challenge.
As the football world reflects on this extraordinary match, Edoardo Bove’s story stands as a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the strength of the human spirit. While his playing career in Italy may have ended, his influence on Fiorentina’s triumph and the football community at large will be remembered for years to come.
Seni Saraki, born in 1995, is the son of former Nigerian Senate President Bukola Saraki and his wife, Toyin Saraki. He has emerged as a prominent figure in Nigeria’s creative and entertainment industries, making significant contributions to music, media, and sports.
Educational ground
Seni’s academic journey began at King’s College in Lagos. He later attended Cheltenham College in the United Kingdom from 2009 to 2011. Pursuing higher education, he studied at the London School of Economics, where he graduated in 2017. His educational background provided a foundation for his diverse professional pursuits.
Professional Endeavors
In 2016, Seni co-founded The NATIVE, a platform dedicated to showcasing African youth culture. The NATIVE has been instrumental in highlighting contemporary African music, fashion, and art, positioning itself as a significant voice in the cultural landscape.
Beyond media, Seni has ventured into sports management. He serves as the Chairman of ABS Ilorin Football Club, a role that underscores his commitment to nurturing talent and promoting sports development in Nigeria.
Contributions to Music and Grammy Recognition
Seni’s influence in the music industry is noteworthy. He played a pivotal role as a music consultant for the Nigerian and London sessions of the “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” soundtrack, collaborating with artists like Rema, Fireboy DML, Tems, and Burna Boy. This involvement not only highlighted Nigerian talent on a global stage but also reinforced the country’s cultural significance in contemporary music.
In 2025, Seni’s contributions were further recognized when he secured his first Grammy Award. He was part of the team behind “Bob Marley: One Love – Music Inspired By the Film,” which won the Grammy for Best Reggae Album. This achievement underscores his dedication to excellence and his ability to bridge diverse musical genres and cultures.
Personal Life and Public Perception
Despite his public endeavors, Seni maintains a relatively private personal life. He is active on social media platforms, where he shares insights into his projects and interests. His achievements have been celebrated by his family and the broader Nigerian community, reflecting pride in his contributions to the nation’s cultural and creative sectors.
Seni Saraki’s journey exemplifies a blend of passion, innovation, and commitment to cultural advancement. His multifaceted roles in media, sports, and music continue to inspire many, highlighting the potential of Nigerian talent on both national and global stages.
Google Maps is marking its 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of transforming how more than 2 billion monthly users explore and navigate the world.
In a statement on Thursday, the tech giant highlighted the platform’s evolution into an indispensable tool, empowering users to travel with confidence.
“Over the past 20 years, Google Maps has become essential for over 2 billion users each month, offering extensive information and fostering a vibrant community for sharing insights,” the company stated.
Google also showcased several features introduced over the years, including AI-powered personalized recommendations via Gemini.
“Ask Maps for curated suggestions on where to visit,” Google noted, adding that the “Directory” tab assists travelers in navigating airports, while augmented reality features provide real-time insights into surroundings.
Additionally, the app helps users locate the most affordable fuel stations nearby.
Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Communications and Public Affairs Manager for Google West Africa, emphasized the platform’s evolution: “Google Maps has grown from a simple mapping tool into a dynamic platform that helps users explore, navigate, and discover new experiences.”
In Nigeria, Google Maps has been instrumental in helping people discover new places and navigate with ease. To commemorate its 20th anniversary, Google unveiled a list of the most reviewed locations across the country.
These popular spots span various categories, including restaurants, cafes, visitor attractions, parks, and museums.
Among the most reviewed restaurants are Mega Chicken, Farmcity Lekki Lounge, and Hard Rock Cafe. In the café category, Flowershop Cafe and Oliver’s Café topped the list.
For visitor attractions, Oniru Private Beach and Fela’s Shrine in Ikeja were among the most reviewed, while City Park in Abuja and the National Museum in Benin City received significant attention in the parks and museums category.
The Bank of England has reduced its base interest rate from 4.75% to 4.5%, marking a strategic shift in monetary policy aimed at stimulating economic growth.
The quarter-point cut comes as policymakers respond to sluggish economic performance and persistent inflationary pressures. In a statement published on Thursday, titled “Bank Rate Reduced to 4.5% – February 2025”, the Bank highlighted its cautious approach to further reductions.
Governor Andrew Bailey welcomed the decision, stating: “It will be welcome news that we have been able to cut interest rates again today. We’ll be monitoring the UK economy and global developments very closely and taking a gradual and careful approach to reducing rates further.”
Divided Decision and Future Rate Cuts
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted 7–2 in favor of the cut, with two members advocating for a more aggressive 0.5% reduction. The Bank’s latest forecasts indicate at least two more rate cuts in the coming years, although investors predict a more accelerated easing cycle.
Despite the rate cut, the UK’s economic outlook remains fragile. The Bank revised its growth forecast downward, warning that the country will narrowly avoid a recession. Additionally, it downgraded expectations for the economy’s income-generating capacity, signaling prolonged weakness.
The Bank also dismissed the Chancellor’s recent economic growth plans, stating they would have “no impact on GDP growth in its forecast horizon.”
Inflation, which fell to 2.5% in Q4 2024, is expected to rise temporarily to 3.7% in Q3 2025 due to energy costs before stabilizing.
Impact on Consumers: Borrowers vs. Savers
The decision has mixed implications for consumers.
Borrowers stand to benefit from lower mortgage and loan rates.
Savers, however, may face declining returns.
Savings expert Anna Bowes advised: “Savers should review their accounts and act before rates drop further. You could get four times the return if you switch to a better account.”
Global Uncertainty & UK’s Economic Future
The UK economy faces additional risks from global factors, including potential U.S. trade policies under Donald Trump. While these tariffs have not yet been factored into economic models, they pose a significant threat to future growth.
As the Bank of England adopts a cautious but steady approach to monetary easing, financial markets and households brace for the evolving economic landscape.
The House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review has put forward a proposal for the creation of 31 new states in Nigeria. If approved, the number of states in the country will increase from 36 to 67.
The proposal was presented during Thursday’s plenary session by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the meeting in the absence of Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. The committee, chaired by Kalu, recommended six new states for the North Central region, four for the North East, five for the North West, five for the South East, four for the South-South, and seven for the South West.
According to the committee, the process of state creation must meet specific constitutional requirements. As outlined in a letter read during the session, an act of the National Assembly must secure a two-thirds majority vote for approval. Additionally, the proposal must receive endorsements from the House of Representatives, the respective State House of Assembly, and the Local Government Council within the affected areas.
The committee emphasized that any new state proposals must strictly adhere to Section 8 of the Nigerian Constitution. Submissions must be presented in three hard copies to the committee’s secretariat at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, while electronic copies should be sent via email.
Among the proposed new states are:
North Central: Okun, Okura, and Confluence (Kogi); Benue Ala and Apa (Benue); FCT State.
North East: Amana (Adamawa); Katagum (Bauchi); Savannah (Borno); Muri (Taraba).
North West: New Kaduna and Gurara (Kaduna); Tiga and Ari (Kano); Kainji (Kebbi).
South East: Etiti and Orashi; Adada (Enugu); Orlu and Aba.
South-South: Ogoja (Cross River); Warri (Delta); Ori and Obolo (Rivers).
South West: Torumbe (Ondo); Ibadan (Oyo); Lagoon (Lagos); Ijebu and Ogun (Ogun); Oke Ogun/Ijesha (Oyo/Ogun/Osun).
The committee reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all proposals align with constitutional provisions and meet the necessary requirements for consideration.
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