International
Movement calls for annulment of sanctions on Mali
By, Michael Mike
Africans Rising Movement has called for the annulment of all sanctions place on Mali after the overthrow of democratic rule by the military.
Africans Rising for Justice, Peace and Dignity is a pan-African social movement of over 30,000 members working to foster an Africa-wide solidarity and unity of purpose of the peoples of Africa
In a statement on Saturday, the movement said it was gravely concerned about the situation developing in the Republic of Mali, adding that “the use of military power to oust democratically-elected governments in the country and the recent imposition of economic sanctions by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have grave consequences for people in the country.”
The movement said “the economic sanctions in their design are poorly targeted, making the conditions of daily life more difficult, especially for the most vulnerable people whose jobs and livelihoods are threatened on a daily basis.
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“At the same time, the extension of military rule imperils the possibilities of democratic elections. As a Pan-African movement, Africans Rising continues to believe in the ideals of an African democracy that serves the interest of its people. While the promise of a transition to democracy has kept many Malians and the country’s allies hopeful, these recent developments could put that all at risk now.”
“Africans Rising continues to stand in solidarity with the Malian people and activist groups fighting for democracy and for better and peaceful livelihoods in these trying times. We amplify their calls for all foreign forces to leave Mali to pave way for the unity of the country,” the movement added.
“What we do not want is Mali to become the battleground for foreign forces using proxies to fight their own wars and imperilling the lives of the people and the future of the region”, Coumba Toure, Africans Rising Movement Co-coordinator, said, adding that: “We strongly condemn the imposition of these sanctions on Mali by the ECOWAS bloc and the international community.”
She said: “We do not want to see the historical country of Mali put in a situation of war mainly because of its natural resources and the greed of a few. We call on ECOWAS to be proactive in calling for the unification of Malians and helping to resolve insecurity”.
The statement added that: “Africans Rising calls on The African Union, United Nations, and other international bodies to join our appeal for ECOWAS to revoke the sanctions imposed on the people of Mali. We urge them to stand with the people of Mali in their call to be freed from the intervention of ECOWAS sanctions and the continued involvement of neo-colonial powers in the way their country is governed and the manner in which they continue to be heavily vested in the mineral resources of the country for their own gain.
“We want the people of Mali to live in a country anchored in the principles of inclusive democracy, free from the fear of religious fundamentalist rule, free from the exploitation of foreign powers and free from corruption either by civilians or military.
Nigeria, Russia to deepen military, technical cooperation
By: Zagazola Makama
The Russian Federation has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening defence and military-technical cooperation with Nigeria as part of efforts to promote peace, sovereignty and stability across the African continent.
Speaking at a bilateral meeting with Nigerian Defense Chief, General Christopher Musa and other officials, a Russian envoy described Nigeria as a strategic and promising partner, noting its position as the most populous country in Africa and a key regional player.
“We consider the Federal Republic of Nigeria a promising partner on the African continent. You are the largest country, and we support the efforts of the Nigerian authorities to strengthen national armed forces to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and ensure regional security,” the envoy said.
He expressed satisfaction with Nigeria’s willingness to pursue constructive cooperation with Russia in the areas of military and defence technology.
“We positively assess your commitment to fruitful cooperation with our country in military and military-technical spheres,” he added.
The Russian official called for an open discussion on current defence priorities, pledging continued support to Nigeria and other African partners.
In his response, Gen Musa, appreciated them for their support and commitment to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and for inviting him and his for the 80th victory parade.
He also appreciated them for the donation of weapons and drones to boost the campaign against terrorism within Nigeria and the Sahel Region
“Today, we discuss the most relevant issues of cooperation between our defence ministries. We value our friendship with Russia and deeply appreciate all the assistance Russia has provided assistance that has often been critical for many countries,” he said.
He praised Russia’s reliability and action-oriented diplomacy, saying, “You don’t just make promises, you fulfil them. Everyone knows Russia works for the good of peace and stability.”said General Musa.
The meeting, attended by top defence officials from both countries, is expected to yield agreements that will boost training, logistics, arms supply and intelligence-sharing in the fight against terrorism.
Nigeria, Russia to deepen military, technical cooperation
Nigeria Congratulates Germany on Election of New Chancellor
By: Michael Mike
Nigeria has extended its warm congratulations to Germany on the successful election of Friedrich Merz as the new Chancellor. The Conservative Leader
won with 325 votes in the 630-Seat Bundestag on Tuesday, 6th May, 2025.
A statement by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa read: “Nigeria commends Germany’s strong democratic traditions and values, which have once again been demonstrated through a peaceful and transparent electoral process. We are confident that under Friedrich Merz’s leadership, Germany will continue to play a pivotal role in advancing global peace, stability, and prosperity.
“As longstanding partners, Nigeria looks forward to deepening bilateral relations with Germany in areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, security, and sustainable development. We also reaffirm our commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation within the framework of the United Nations and other international fora.
“The Nigerian government and people wish the new Chancellor a successful tenure and express our readiness to work closely with Germany for the benefit of both nations and the global community.”
Nigeria Congratulates Germany on Election of New Chancellor
Nigeria Commiserates with Catholic Church Over Demise of Pope Francis
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has expressed profound sorrow at the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died on Monday, 21 April 2025, at the age of 88 years.
The departed Holy Father, the political head of Vatican City and the head of the Catholic Church, was described in the statement as a global moral leader whose papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to peace, social justice, and the dignity of all people.
The statement read: “Nigeria commiserates with the teaming population of the catholic church in the country and joins the international community, particularly the Catholic faithful worldwide, in mourning this immense loss. Pope Francis’ deep concern for the marginalized; including refugees, the poor, and victims of conflict, resonated strongly in Nigeria, where his calls for interreligious harmony and solidarity were a beacon of hope amid challenges.
“His historic 2022 apology for the Church’s role in colonial injustices, including the suffering of Indigenous peoples, indeed set a powerful example of reconciliation. Also worthy of commendation is his advocacy for peace in Africa, and other conflict areas in the world, reflecting his universal pastoral mission.”
The statement further read that: “In this moment of grief, therefore, Nigeria extends heartfelt condolences to the Vatican, the Catholic Church, and the Argentine people, who gifted the world this extraordinary pontiff.
“We pray for the repose of his soul and trust that his legacy of mercy, dialogue, and care for our common home will endure.”
Nigeria Commiserates with Catholic Church Over Demise of Pope Francis
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