News
War Against Niger: Why Nigeria Should Look Before It Leaps
War Against Niger: Why Nigeria Should Look Before It Leaps
By Zagazola Makama
Carefully observing the geopolitical map of AFRICA, WAGNER Operation and disassociation from WEST hegemony straddles a straight line from coasts of SENEGAL to SUDAN where a geo-strategic interest lies.
It appears the diversion is in AFRICA, which has become the proxy area for the UKRAINE – RUSSIA war.
In retrospect, the campaign against WESTERN hegemony, especially FRANCE, had eaten deep into AFRICA and has potentially no reverse, as calls rose for, first, AFRICAN leadership to own their countries’ wealth and, second, a united AFRICA.
Equally, WAGNER, an extension of RUSSIAN military diplomacy, spearheaded a Psychological Operations measure to divert attention of NATO and other WESTERN powers’ attention as EUROPE continues to become tense over the UKRAINE – RUSSIA conflict.
For now, WESTERN dominance is on the verge of pulling more resources to maintain relations with AFRICA.
Whatever the consequences, a RUSSIA-led support virus had already been inoculated into the streams of support by part of AFRICA to take sides.
This, therefore, forms the context in which the buildup of tension between the NIGERIA-led ECOWAS and NIGER REPUBLIC over the recent coup overthrowing the Mohammed Bazoum-led democratically elected government of the West African francophone nation should be viewed.
The Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government of Nigeria seems hell-bent on leading the combined ECOWAS military to storm Niamey, root out the coupists, free Bazoum from their captivity and reinstate him president of NIGER.
There are numerous salient facts with regard to NIGERIA-NIGER Republic relations that deserve crucial consideration before the ECOWAS forces pounce on NIGER.
This consideration is imperative for NIGERIA to avoid being deceived into a proxy war that will, in the long run, cause its drastic and cataclysmic fall from the enviable heights of West African Giant and, possibly, African leadership.
The most-startling of these facts.
Seven states in NIGERIA, stretching from the North-West to the North-East geopolitical zones border NIGER. The peoples of these states savor centuries-old sociocultural affinity and amity with the peoples of the southern flank of NIGER, contributing substantially to the economies of the countries for ages.
These close ties are about to be crushed by the ECOWAS forces.
Intelligence suggests despite sanctions by ECOWAS, BENIN Republic has opened up borders to NIGER, implying its disagreement with the gang up measure against its neighbor. Suspicion places NIGERIA in tight corners as pro-WEST to act spontaneously against its neighbor.
This is possibly as part of WAGNER psychological Operation to seek further movement of the PMC personnel into NIAMEY in part and WEST AFRICA as a whole.
NIGERIA-NIGER relations have always been excellent up until now. For instance, NIGER is always actively in support of NIGERIA during Counter insurgency Operations of the Multinational Joint Task Force and provides ISR as well as Air Interdiction during most missions.
Military operations, economic transfer and numerous other friendly relations exist between both nations.
The coup may have changed the politics but has not disemboweled the close ties or similarities in cultural and social identity between NIGERIA and her neighbors.
It is assumed the target to frustrate NIGERIA’s key role economically, politically and militarily after solely containing more than a decade old insurgency is likely.
Hence, NIGERIA should continue a broader defense diplomacy with its neighbors to maintain a steady course in foreign policy.
The strong ties NIGERIA with its neighbors should be used to overcome plans to utilize AFRICA as grounds for proxy war between the WESTERN and EASTERN powers.
There is a need for NIGERIA to showcase the big-brother position in aligning with AFRICA’s unity and suggest to her neighbors that despite all shortcomings, measures other than coup may not be a solution.
There is a need to call on the leadership of MALI, BURKINA FASO, GUINEA and others to realize support for one another as well as to devise means of solving the major issues of developing strategies against terrorism and western hegemony.
It will, therefore, be unfortunate to deploy force to NIGER.
Information suggests GHANA, TOGO, GAMBIA and LIBERIA have said they will not deploy troops to NIGER. More so, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea, three West African nations, have backed the coup leaders in Niger, a move that poses a threat to regional stability. this is a trap for NIGERIA.
NIGERIA, for her own good, must not fall into this trap. It could be disastrous for, first, its status in the West African region and, indeed, the entire African continent; and, second, its existence as one enviably politically, diplomatically and economically powerful entity in global affairs.
The possible abstention of some of the West African nations from the impending war is not because ECOWAS does not have the capability to deploy a force to NIGER, but because other members will not commit as much resources as expected.
Moreover, ECOWAS will have to explain why it didn’t deploy similar forces to BURKINA FASO, MALI and GUINEA where their military also toppled democratic governments.
Generally, it will be a big strategic miscalculation for NIGERIA to commit to such externalities, with the several internal challenges facing the country.
A diplomatic solution to NIGER’s problem will be the best at this moment. NIGERIA has nothing to prove to the world except its proficiency in diplomatic relations and standing tall in might as a big brother. NIGERIA’s military diplomacy should play a key role in turning key issues.
NIGERIA faces devastating consequences should the war be carried out against NIGER.
Nigeria is strategically positioned into a geographical zone that it can never Win a War on the NIGER REPUBLIC even if the Military Junta is chased out of Niamey.
The following are definite to be the price of the aggression on the NIGER REPUBLIC by ECOWAS by the West African allied forces:
First: Losing President Bazoum. For sure, the first consequences of the War on NIGER is that NIGERIA will only have the corpse of MOHAMMED BAZOUM whom PRESIDENT TINUBU led ECOWAS is so anxious to reinstate immediately Niamey is captured.
Is Nigeria or any fighter for the restoration of democracy ready for that to happen?
Second: More enmity will emanate against Nigeria within the West African region. The country will have more regional enemies than friends because all the Countries bordering NIGER REPUBLIC will not condone the aggression even if they restrain from attacking Nigeria in defense of their ally in the protection of their sovereignty.
Third: Diplomatic relations among West African nations could worsen, leading to the possible collapse of ECOWAS. This situation would be catastrophic to the economy of the region as free movement of its citizens becomes a big regional threat. Already Niger Republic is hosting over 300,000 Nigerian Refugees in Diffa, Bosso and Tumour. These IDPs are already facing stigmatization and humiliation from their host and soon they may be asked to leave.
Four: There could be a proliferation of unprecedentedly frightening forms of terrorism as a result of the presence of huge amounts of Bõko Harām Insurgents across the borders of the two countries that stretched into Mali, Burkina Faso up to the Sene-Gambian Region. Fledgeling or the collapse of ECOWAS would facilitate the infiltration of terrorist groups into the countries much easier than what happened to ISIS’s cross border operations in Syria, Iraq, Turkey and parts of Egypt’s Sinai mountainous region.
In this scenario, more massive funding will be made towards sponsoring “Terrorists Groups”, thus creating more others by International Agencies who have been enemies to “Global Peace” to control sensitively viable areas of economic importance for eventually ceaseless attacks such as the ongoing “Armed Banditry and Kidnappings” that are rampant in the Region.
Five: Inflation and economic recession is definitely going to hit Nigeria immediately the war starts, causing millions of people across the region to lose their jobs, causing high cost of living for the ordinary citizens of both countries.
Six: Famine and rampant deaths would be inevitable as a result of the hampering of all agricultural activities, with the war intensifying where massive hectares of land shall remain without being harvested for more than 75 percent of the region in the same technical manner Bõko Harām disrupts farming for than a decade throughout most parts of the North-East.
Seven: Massive migration across West Africa, and, possibly, between West Africa and other contiguous regions of the African continent would take place as refugees from both sides keep flooding the Sub-saharan region.
With Nigeria presently finding it difficult to manage the growing humanitarian crisis with millions of its Internally Displaced Persons (IDPS) due to terrorism and banditry, another unsustainable chaotic conditions will be artificially created for it to handle.
For sure, when the drums of War are beaten and the planned aggression on the NIGER REPUBLIC commences, NORTHERN NIGERIA’s (Arēwa) Region, from Gamboru to Kamba, From ILLELA/JIBIYA/MAI-ADUWA/MAIGATARI to OTURKPO would be submerged in total full scale insecurity.
This could threaten the existence of NORTHERN NIGERIA. Once NORTHERN NIGERIA is gone, the official Federation of what is known as Nigeria would be “Badly Bargained”, forever.
Nigeria should look before it leaps.
To be forewarned is to be forearmed!
Zagazola is a Counter-Insurgency expert and security analyst in the Lake Chad region.
War Against Niger: Why Nigeria Should Look Before It Leaps
Global Leaders Inspire Youth Action on Digital Education at LASSMUN 2026
By: Michael Mike
A powerful coalition of global and national leaders has challenged Nigerian students to take ownership of the future, as the Lagos Secondary Schools Model United Nations (LASSMUN) 2026 opened with a resounding focus on digital transformation, equity, and sustainable development.
At the heart of the gathering was a clear message: young people are not just participants in tomorrow’s world—they are already shaping it.
Delivering a keynote message, António Guterres underscored the United Nations’ unwavering belief in the capacity of youth to drive meaningful change. He told delegates that Model UN platforms are more than academic exercises—they are training grounds for leadership, diplomacy, and problem-solving in an increasingly complex world.
He emphasized that building a better future demands stamina, courage, and a deep commitment to fairness, urging students to always center the needs of the most vulnerable in their decision-making.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, reinforced the importance of education as a cornerstone of national progress, describing LASSMUN as a strategic investment in the next generation of leaders.
He highlighted ongoing efforts by the state government to strengthen education systems through innovation, infrastructure, and policies that promote critical thinking and character development. According to him, the discipline and engagement demanded by Model UN simulations mirror real-life governance and should inspire students to lead with integrity and purpose.
Providing a broader intellectual perspective, Efosa Osaghae, represented by Prof. Joshua Bolarinwa, said digital transformation holds immense promise for addressing global inequalities in education. However, he warned that without deliberate policies to ensure inclusiveness, technology could deepen existing divides.
He called for sustained investments in digital infrastructure, improved access, and stronger policy frameworks to ensure that no learner is left behind in the rapidly evolving knowledge economy.
The Director of the United Nations Information Centre Abuja, Ronald Kayanja, took the message further, reminding participants that youth are already central to global efforts on peace, climate action, and sustainable development.
He urged delegates to embrace dialogue, tolerance, and cooperation—core values of the United Nations—while also developing the critical ability to distinguish facts from misinformation in an increasingly polarized information landscape.
Earlier, LASSMUN President Damilola Ogunsanwo set the tone for the conference, describing it as a transformative experience that instills discipline, collaboration, and respect for global processes.
Also speaking, Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary of Education District III, Mrs. Mojisola Christiana Yusuf, emphasized that Model UN bridges classroom learning with real-world application, equipping students with essential skills such as negotiation, public speaking, and teamwork.
Adding a development perspective, Ms. Genevieve Chukwuezi, representing the United Nations Development Programme Lagos Office, highlighted how technology proved indispensable during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring continuity in learning despite widespread school closures.
She stressed that digital transformation must go beyond access to technology, focusing instead on innovation, scalability, and the ability to translate ideas into practical solutions that drive economic and social progress.
In a striking intervention, the conference Secretary-General, Praise Oyekunbi, cautioned against superficial adoption of technology, warning that digital tools without equitable access risk entrenching injustice rather than solving it.
“Technology without equity is not progress—it is exclusion,” she declared, drawing attention to the urgent need for inclusive digital policies.
With debates and committee sessions underway, LASSMUN 2026 is shaping up as more than a conference—it is a platform cultivating a new generation of informed, responsible, and globally conscious leaders ready to confront the defining challenges of the 21st century.
Global Leaders Inspire Youth Action on Digital Education at LASSMUN 2026
News
Stakeholders Call for Stronger Enforcement, Early Intervention to Curb School Bullying in Nigeria
Stakeholders Call for Stronger Enforcement, Early Intervention to Curb School Bullying in Nigeria
By: Michael Mike
Stakeholders from government agencies, civil society, security institutions, and the education sector have called for urgent early intervention, stronger enforcement of anti-bullying policies, and expanded youth empowerment programmes to address rising cases of bullying in Nigerian schools.
They made the call at a Stakeholder Consultative Dialogue on Anti-Bullying in Nigerian Schools convened by International Alert Nigeria on Friday in Abuja, where experts warned that bullying is increasingly becoming a major driver of mental health challenges and broader social risks among young people.
NDLEA links bullying to drug abuse risks
Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Marwa, warned that persistent bullying could expose young people to substance abuse and other harmful coping behaviours.
Represented by Henrietta HoldGod of the agency’s Counselling and Psychosocial Support Unit, he said victims of bullying often suffer anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and social withdrawal.
He stressed that in some cases, affected students may resort to drugs as a coping mechanism, noting that prevention of bullying directly aligns with NDLEA’s broader preventive mandate.
“Protecting children from bullying also means protecting them from pathways that may lead to drug abuse and other harmful behaviours,” he said, adding that safer schools are essential for building resilient communities.
NAPTIP urges zero tolerance and collective responsibility
The Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Binta Bello, described bullying as a violation of human rights that requires collective action across homes, schools, and communities.
Represented by NAPTIP Director Rebecca Enwusoyere, she called for strict zero-tolerance policies in schools, stronger parental engagement, and sustained community advocacy.
She also urged stakeholders to equip young people with skills to identify, resist, and report bullying, stressing that awareness campaigns, peer education, and safe reporting channels are critical to preventing silent suffering among victims.
Experts warn of rising mental health burden
A Senior Research Fellow in International Education and Development at the Open University, Dr. Margaret Ebubedike, said bullying had worsened in the post-COVID-19 period, with significant consequences for students’ mental health and learning outcomes.
She noted that bullying extends beyond individuals to affect families and the education system, disrupting academic engagement and undermining safe learning environments.
Citing regional data, she said between 27 and 50 percent of children in Sub-Saharan Africa experience bullying, warning that Nigeria’s situation appears more severe, with more than half of secondary school students reportedly affected.
“Tackling bullying requires a collective response involving parents, educators, policymakers, and communities,” she said.
Security agency warns of wider societal risks
The Commandant-General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Audi, cautioned that unresolved bullying cases could escalate into broader security threats if not addressed early.
Represented by CSC Adeoye Adegoke, he emphasised the need for early reporting systems and coordinated institutional responses to prevent escalation.
Federal Government reiterates policy commitment
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to tackling bullying through the National Policy on Anti-Bullying in Schools.
Representing the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Mrs. Augustine Udo said the policy provides a framework for accountability, protection, and enforcement, urging stakeholders to move from policy discussions to practical implementation.
She called for stronger reporting mechanisms and increased empathy among students, teachers, and parents.
The Federal Ministry of Education Nigeria also confirmed that implementation guidelines and a dedicated committee have been established to ensure nationwide rollout of anti-bullying measures across schools.
Experts push for system-wide action
Behavioural Change Communication expert, Ms. Ayotola Ilori, said data shows bullying is widespread, with about 32 percent of Nigerians aged 12 to 17 affected, while as many as 85 percent are either victims, perpetrators, or both.
She welcomed the 2025 National Anti-Bullying Policy but warned that policy design alone is insufficient without full system-level implementation across schools nationwide.
Ilori also called for coordinated action across all 774 local government areas, urging students to speak up and avoid silence when facing bullying.
International Alert calls for practical interventions
Country Director of International Alert Nigeria, Dr. Kingsley Udo, said the initiative was prompted by growing concerns over recent bullying incidents, including a widely reported case in Edo State.
Represented by Programme Manager Sunday Jimoh, he said the dialogue aimed to move beyond awareness creation to actionable policy solutions.
He noted that bullying is not limited to schools but also exists in workplaces, sports, and leadership spaces, describing it as a broader societal challenge.
Udo said the organisation is working with schools to establish Youth Peace Clubs, where students are trained in conflict resolution and the psychological impact of bullying.
He added that safe reporting systems are also being developed to ensure victims can report incidents before they escalate.
At the end of the dialogue, organisers said a communiqué and policy roadmap would be developed to guide future advocacy and strengthen government engagement on anti-bullying interventions nationwide.
Stakeholders Call for Stronger Enforcement, Early Intervention to Curb School Bullying in Nigeria
Nigerian envoy visits troops in Benin, urges professionalism
By: Zagazola Makama
The Chargé d’Affaires at the Nigerian Embassy in Cotonou, Benin Republic, Amb. Bukar Kalambe, has visited Nigerian troops deployed under Operation AWATSE African Alliance II (OPAA II), urging them to uphold professionalism and represent the country with dignity.
Thrme visit took place on April 15, 2026, at Togbin Camp, where the envoy was accompanied by the Defence Adviser, Col. S.A. Yahaya, embassy staff, and the President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), Benin Republic branch, Alhaji Muhammad Muniru.
According to the sources, the visit was aimed at boosting the morale of the troops and reinforcing diplomatic support for the ongoing mission.During the interaction, Kalambe charged the troops to remain disciplined and committed to their mandate, while serving as good ambassadors of Nigeria.
He also assured them of continued support from the Nigerian mission in Benin Republic to ensure the success of the operation.
The Commanding Officer of OPAA II, Lt.-Col. A.A. Ikoro, later conducted the envoy on a guided tour of the camp, showcasing facilities, vehicles, and operational equipment provided by the Nigerian Army for the mission.End
Nigerian envoy visits troops in Benin, urges professionalism
Troops arrest suspected terrorist in Kaduna, cite internal clashes among bandit leaders
Global Leaders Inspire Youth Action on Digital Education at LASSMUN 2026
Stakeholders Call for Stronger Enforcement, Early Intervention to Curb School Bullying in Nigeria
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
FAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoRoger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions4 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News12 months agoFAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoEYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
Opinions4 years agoPOLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
ACADEMICS2 years agoA History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns2 years agoArmy University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
Opinions2 years agoTinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
