Author: Adejuyigbe Adegoke

In March 2026, tensions in the Middle East escalated dramatically when U.S. President, Donald Trump, issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran demanding the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. The crisis forms part of a broader conflict involving the United States, Iran, and Israel, and has triggered global economic, political, and military repercussions. Background to the Crisis Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea. It is: Responsible for about 20% of global oil shipments A…

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving single-digit inflation (6–9%), as it transitions toward a full-fledged inflation-targeting monetary policy framework. This shift represents one of the most significant reforms in Nigeria’s monetary policy architecture in decades, combining measurable progress in disinflation with a forward-looking institutional overhaul. This position was reinforced during a high-level engagement with the Nigerian Economic Society and members of the academic community in Abuja on March 18, 2026. Inflation Trend: Sharp Decline Since 2024 Nigeria’s inflation trajectory has improved markedly: Inflation peaked at 34.8% in late 2024 Declined to about 15.1% by…

The United States Department of State has announced a five-year bilateral health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), with Angola under the Trump Administration’s America First Global Health Strategy. This agreement commits $121 million in joint funding to strengthen Angola’s health systems, with emphasis on infectious diseases, laboratory capacity, and private-sector engagement. While the agreement is bilateral, its broader significance lies in the expanding network of 27 such MOUs—including one with Nigeria—which signals a shift in U.S. global health engagement toward co-investment, national ownership, and strategic health security. Key Features of the Angola MOU The Angola agreement reflects several defining pillars of…

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a major reform in basic education system: the planned abolition of the long-standing Common Entrance Examination used for admitting pupils into junior secondary schools (JSS). This policy shift represents a significant departure from a high-stakes, one-time testing model toward a more continuous and comprehensive system of student evaluation. The reform, disclosed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, is part of broader efforts to improve access, retention, and quality within Nigeria’s education sector. Background: The Common Entrance Examination The Common Entrance Examination has historically served as the standardised test taken by pupils…

The United Kingdom has made a significant policy reversal (“U-turn”), by granting the United States access to its military bases for strikes on Iranian targets. This decision marks a major escalation in Western involvement in the ongoing Iran conflict and reflects shifting geopolitical, military, and economic pressures. Initially cautious and reluctant, the UK government ultimately aligned more closely with U.S. military strategy amid intensifying hostilities in the Middle East. Background to the Conflict The development must be understood within the broader context of the 2026 Iran war, which began on February 28, 2026, following joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iranian military…

Africa’s Energy Landscape Under Stress The Middle East conflict — largely centred on tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel — has sharply disrupted global oil markets. Key implications include volatility in crude pricing, increased freight costs, and supply chain instability that are reverberating far beyond the region. Many African countries, especially those heavily reliant on imported refined petroleum products, have seen fuel shortages and price spikes as a result. Why Dangote Refinery Is Gaining Strategic Importance Demand Surge Across Africa In recent weeks, African nations have significantly increased enquiries and fuel purchase agreements with Dangote Refinery. Countries including…

Lagos, Nigeria – March 19, 2026 – Canon Central and North Africa is playing a pivotal role in elevating African cinema with its advanced imaging technology, powering the much-anticipated Nollywood music drama, Evi. The film will have its exclusive African premiere on March 22, 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria, followed by a nationwide cinema release on March 27, 2026. As African films gain increasing international recognition, filmmakers are turning to professional cinema technologies to deliver visuals that resonate both locally and globally. Evi exemplifies this trend, demonstrating how high-end imaging tools can amplify the authenticity, emotion, and vibrancy of African storytelling.…

On March 19, 2026, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency announced a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening energy infrastructure across West Africa. The program focuses on fostering collaboration between U.S. energy firms and key stakeholders from five West African countries: Nigeria, Benin, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal. The initiative centers on improving energy security, grid resilience, and modernisation, particularly through the integration of advanced U.S. technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI). Objectives of the Initiative The USTDA program is designed to achieve several key objectives: Strengthen Transmission and Distribution SystemsImprove the reliability and efficiency of electricity networks across West Africa.…

LAGOS, Nigeria, March 10, 2026 — The Federal Republic of Nigeria has officially signed the host agreement for the fifth edition of the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2027), stepping into the spotlight as the next hub for Africa’s premier trade and investment marketplace. The baton passes from Algeria, which successfully hosted the fourth edition, generating US$49.94 billion in trade and investment deals. The agreement signing ceremony took place in Lagos, the designated host city, in collaboration with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), the African Union Commission, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Secretariat. The event underscores Nigeria’s central role…

The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a “Fly Now, Pay Later” (FNPL), consumer credit scheme to improve access to domestic air travel. The initiative, spearheaded by the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), is designed to enable Nigerians to book flights immediately and repay the cost over time through structured financing. The announcement, made via CREDICORP’s official communication channels, reflects a broader government effort to expand consumer credit access and address affordability challenges in key sectors such as aviation. Key Features of the Scheme a. Immediate Travel, Deferred Payment Under the FNPL scheme: Eligible customers can book domestic flights instantly…

The pursuit of a legal education requires enrollment in a university programme officially recognised by the Council of Legal Education (CLE). Only graduates from these accredited institutions are eligible to proceed to the Nigerian Law School and ultimately qualify to practice law in the country. To guide prospective law students, this report presents a comprehensive list of 114 universities across Nigeria that are approved to offer Bachelor of Laws (LL.B), programmes. The list includes federal, state, and private universities, highlighting the institutions that meet the rigorous academic and regulatory standards set by CLE. This compilation serves as a vital reference…

Alaafín Orompoto holds a singular place in West African history as the first and only female ruler of the Oyo Empire. Her story is one of courage, ingenuity, and defiance against deeply entrenched gender norms in 16th-century Yorubaland. Rising to power in 1554, Orompoto’s reign not only broke societal expectations but also reshaped the political and military landscape of Oyo, leaving a legacy that has endured in oral traditions and historical accounts. Ascension to Power Orompoto assumed the throne following the death of her brother, Alaafín Eguguojo, at a time when no male heir was available to rule. The Oyo…