Hallmark Media

15/11/2025

15/11/2025

AU Chair: Muslims are victims of Boko Haram terrorists attacks.

It is deeply unfortunate that, rather than deploying a fact-finding mission to Nigeria to engage directly with affected Christian communities in the North, the AU Chair chose instead to issue a blanket denial from the comfort of his office in Addis Ababa. Such an approach reflects a troubling disconnection from the realities on the ground and raises serious questions about the institution’s commitment to justice, accountability, and evidence-based leadership.

This pattern of detached decision-making is one of the reasons Africa continues to fall behind on nearly every index of human development. When leaders refuse to investigate crises with rigor and sensitivity, when they rely on distance instead of firsthand engagement, they fail not only the victims but the entire continent. True progress demands courage, empathy, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths—qualities that Africa desperately needs from those entrusted with its highest offices.

Okoye Chukwuma Franklin is a Development Journalist, Education consultant and Executive Director of Hallmark Media Hallmark Media (Commonwealth Africa Journal) Abuja

15/11/2025

Ambassador Michael Waltz has expressed his gratitude to Nicki Minaj for drawing global attention to the ongoing killing of Christians in Nigeria. He acknowledged her influential voice and commended her for using her platform to spotlight a humanitarian crisis that often goes underreported. According to Waltz, such international awareness is critical in mobilizing action, holding perpetrators accountable, and supporting vulnerable communities affected by violence.

Hallmark Media (Commonwealth Africa Journal) Abuja

15/11/2025

The recent dismissal of genocide concerns in Nigeria by African Union Commission Chair, Mahmoud Ali, has drawn deep unease among observers and advocates. Sitting before the international press, he asserted that no genocide is occurring, an assertion that starkly contrasts the harrowing testimonies, mass graves, and unrelenting violence faced by Christian communities across the country.

For many, his statement reflects a broader crisis within the African Union: the appointment of leaders whose positions appear detached from the lived realities of vulnerable populations. Such denials not only undermine the credibility of the AU but also erase the suffering of countless victims whose blood has stained the soil in the wake of extremist attacks.

To pan Africanists of a new generation, those who envision a continent built on justice, accountability, and the protection of human life, this moment feels like a painful setback. It is a humiliation of the memories of those murdered by jihadist violence and an indictment of an institution that should stand firmly for truth and human dignity.

Silencing or downplaying the cries of the oppressed does not foster unity; it deepens wounds. Africa deserves a leadership that speaks with moral courage, honors the truth, and stands with the persecuted, no matter who the perpetrators are.

Hallmark Media (Commonwealth Africa Journal) Abuja

14/11/2025

It is long over due! Nigeria beckons on you!

27/09/2025

Nepal Protest Leader to Contest in Upcoming Elections

A prominent protest leader in Nepal has announced his intention to run in the country’s upcoming elections. The activist, who has been at the forefront of recent demonstrations, said his decision to join the political race stems from a desire to translate the people’s demands on the streets into concrete policy changes.

He emphasized that his campaign will focus on accountability, social justice, and reforms to address the grievances that fueled the protests. His candidacy is expected to shake up the political landscape and draw significant attention as Nepal heads toward the polls.

27/09/2025

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, has been celebrated for thousands of years and marks the beginning of the High Holy Days. Following the lunisolar Hebrew calendar, it usually falls in September or October. Jewish communities welcome the New Year with heartfelt prayers, symbolic foods that represent hope and renewal, and the uplifting sound of the shofar, a ram’s horn, which calls for reflection and spiritual awakening.

07/06/2025

Gabon’s Withdrawal from EU Fisheries Agreement Signals a Turning Point in Africa’s Resource Sovereignty

Libreville, Gabon – June 2025

After nearly two decades of cooperation, the Republic of Gabon has announced its withdrawal from a long-standing fisheries partnership with the European Union, citing systemic imbalances and exploitation that have yielded disproportionate benefits to European fishing companies at the expense of Gabon’s local communities and marine resources.

The agreement, established in 2007, allowed EU vessels to harvest fish in Gabonese waters in exchange for financial contributions aimed at supporting Gabon’s domestic fishing sector. However, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has labeled the deal “lopsided,” arguing that the EU reaped significant economic advantages while Gabon’s returns remained marginal. “Our marine wealth has been extracted for foreign profit while our coastal communities struggle with dwindling fish stocks and limited development,” the President remarked in a recent national address.

A Legacy of Unequal Partnership

For 18 years, the fisheries agreement served as a symbol of economic cooperation between Gabon and the EU. But beneath the surface, many Gabonese fishermen and local leaders raised concerns about the depletion of marine resources, reduced fish availability for local markets, and minimal reinvestment in the country’s fishing infrastructure.

Independent reports confirm that while European companies have recorded millions of euros in profits from Gabon’s waters, many Gabonese artisanal fishermen operate with outdated tools and lack access to basic cold storage or processing facilities. The discrepancy between promise and reality has deepened public skepticism over the long-term sustainability of such partnerships.

Economic and Political Implications for Europe

The termination of the agreement is poised to impact European fishing fleets, particularly those from Spain, France, and Portugal, who have relied on access to West African waters to meet both commercial demands and quota requirements. The EU may face a shortfall in fish imports, rising prices, and increased pressure to find alternative sources—a reminder of the continent’s dependence on African marine ecosystems.

This development also sends a powerful message to other African nations in similar arrangements: the era of passive resource concession is drawing to a close. Europe must now contend with a more assertive Africa—one that is reevaluating the terms of international cooperation and demanding equity and sustainability.

A Call for Pan-African Resource Stewardship

Gabon’s decision underscores a growing consciousness among African leaders regarding the need to reclaim control over natural resources and ensure they serve the interests of local populations. As environmental pressures mount and global demand intensifies, responsible resource management is becoming not only an economic imperative but a matter of sovereignty.

Analysts say the move could inspire a regional wave of policy reforms, encouraging other coastal states to renegotiate or exit exploitative fisheries agreements. If properly managed, Africa’s marine resources could be a cornerstone for economic diversification, food security, and job creation across the continent.

Looking Ahead

President Nguema has emphasized Gabon’s commitment to building a more sustainable and locally driven fishing industry. Plans are underway to invest in modernizing artisanal fleets, training local fishermen, and enforcing stricter conservation measures. There is hope that this bold step will serve as a catalyst for more transparent and equitable international partnerships.

Ultimately, Gabon’s withdrawal marks more than the end of a contract—it signals the awakening of a nation, and perhaps a continent, to the power and potential of its own natural wealth. The challenge now lies in turning sovereignty into sustained prosperity.

Okoye Chukwuma Franklin is a Development Journalist, Education consultant and Executive Director of Hallmark Media Hallmark Media (Commonwealth Africa Journal) Abuja

07/06/2025

FASHION REVOLUTION & SUSTAINABLE TRADE: OKOYE CHUKWUMA FRANKLIN’S VISION FOR AFRICA’S TEXTILE RENAISSANCE

In the dynamic realm of international trade and development, few voices resonate as strongly as that of Okoye Chukwuma Franklin, Executive Director of Hallmark Media (Commonwealth Africa Journal). With a resolute vision and hands-on experience in global textile commerce, Franklin has emerged as a leading advocate for Africa's economic transformation through strategic participation in international sourcing platforms.

In 2018, Franklin led a Nigerian Textile Buyers & Manufacturers Delegation to Intex South Asia, the largest and most influential international textile sourcing show in South Asia, held in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Representing both the private sector and broader Pan-African trade interests, the delegation under his leadership engaged directly with over 250+ suppliers from 20+ countries, fostering high-level B2B connections and unlocking new sourcing opportunities for African businesses.

International Trade Champion

With years of experience navigating complex international trade environments, Franklin’s depth of knowledge spans textile value chains, sustainable trade systems, and regional economic integration. His efforts focus not just on procurement but on establishing long-term trade linkages that prioritize mutual prosperity. Through Hallmark Media’s platform, he continues to connect African businesses with international markets, providing critical exposure to global trends, suppliers, and innovations.

“Trade is not merely about transactions,” Franklin asserts. “It’s about building systems of trust, networks of value, and ecosystems that empower both producers and consumers. Africa must be part of global supply chains not as a passive consumer but as an active, strategic partner.”

Driving Wealth Creation Through Fashion

Franklin’s approach to trade is deeply rooted in the understanding that fashion is not only a cultural expression but a potent economic driver. By encouraging Nigerian and African textile manufacturers to engage directly with Asian markets, he is building bridges that can fuel domestic production, reduce import dependency, and generate jobs across the continent.

His call for a “Fashion Revolution” is more than an invitation—it is a declaration of intent to transform Africa’s fashion and textile industry from a fragmented market into a coordinated, wealth-creating force. Events like INTEX South Asia provide critical platforms for skill transfer, industrial partnerships, and sustainable procurement strategies.

Sustainability and Future Trade Prospects

As the world pivots toward sustainability, Franklin sees an opportunity for Africa to lead through innovation and ethical sourcing. “We must align with global sustainability goals, not just as followers but as innovators. Africa has the raw materials, talent, and creativity. What we need are platforms, partnerships, and policy frameworks that support inclusive and sustainable trade.”

Through his continuous engagement with international stakeholders and policy influencers, Franklin is shaping a future where Africa is seen as a viable and competitive player in global trade.

Looking Forward

As the world takes note of Africa’s rising influence in fashion and trade, Okoye Chukwuma Franklin stands ready—not only to represent Africa on the world stage—but to ensure the continent reaps the full benefits of the global economy.

Okoye Chukwuma Franklin

05/06/2025

Governor Alex Otti: A Vision of Dignity and Human-Centered Governance in Abia State

In a world where political leadership often leans towards punitive policies and impersonal governance, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, Nigeria, is charting a refreshingly humane path—one grounded in compassion, equity, and Pan-African values.

At a recent address to Ndi Abia, Governor Otti delivered a powerful message that resonated deeply with citizens and observers across the continent:

> "If you have money, please pay your tax. But if you don’t, don’t be afraid — we won’t come after you. Instead, we will do everything we can to create opportunities, to give you work, to help you stand on your feet. And when you do, you too can proudly contribute through your tax."

This statement, simple in tone but profound in principle, underscores a new model of leadership—one that places human dignity above fiscal expediency. Governor Otti's approach rejects the heartless bureaucracy that has alienated many ordinary Africans from their governments. Instead, he promotes a relationship between the state and its citizens that is built on mutual respect, empathy, and shared progress.

A New Social Contract

In Governor Otti’s Abia, the social contract is being reimagined. Taxation is not viewed as a coercive obligation, but as a badge of economic inclusion and civic pride. He recognizes that not all citizens are in a position to contribute financially—and rather than criminalize poverty, his administration is committed to fighting it.

This philosophy is deeply rooted in Pan-Africanism—the belief in African unity, self-determination, and the empowerment of the African people. By affirming that the government’s role is to uplift rather than punish, Otti echoes the ideals of visionaries like Kwame Nkrumah and Julius Nyerere, who saw governance as a moral calling to liberate and develop their people.

Investing in the People

Governor Otti’s administration has already taken concrete steps toward fulfilling this vision. Programs focused on job creation, vocational training, infrastructure development, and business support are being implemented across Abia State. Youth empowerment initiatives and SME-friendly policies are at the heart of his economic agenda.

But beyond programs and policies, it is his tone—his sincere and empathetic communication—that is winning hearts. In a country often bruised by corruption, insensitivity, and economic exclusion, Otti’s words have become a balm for the weary spirit of the common Nigerian.

A Model for Africa

The Governor’s statement has not only inspired Ndi Abia, but has caught the attention of Pan-African thinkers and leaders who yearn for a continent where leadership means service, and governance is synonymous with care.

Governor Alex Otti is more than a political figure—he is emerging as a symbol of what is possible when African leaders see their citizens not as statistics, but as brothers and sisters, full of potential and deserving of dignity.

In his leadership, we glimpse a future where Africa is governed by compassion, driven by justice, and uplifted by the collective effort of its people. A future where no one is left behind—not because they are poor—but because their government stands ready to help them rise.

And when they do rise, they will contribute. Not out of fear, but with pride.

Okoye Chukwuma Franklin is a Development Journalist, Education consultant and Executive Director of Hallmark Media Hallmark Media (Commonwealth Africa Journal) Abuja

05/06/2025

Igbanke People Rediscover Their Root: A Historic Homecoming to the Igbo Nation

In a momentous cultural affirmation, the Igbanke people have boldly and categorically stated that they are not descendants of the Benin Kingdom. Instead, they have reasserted their identity as part of the greater Igbo nation, rooted in Igbo traditions, values, and way of life.

From language and cultural expressions to traditional ceremonies, the Igbanke community identifies deeply with Igbo heritage. Their mode of dressing, market day system, the revered New Yam Festival, burial rites, kingship structure, and above all, their language, all reflect the customs of the Igbo people.

Reacting to a recent declaration by the Oba of Benin proposing the institution of Enogie (Benin-style chiefs) in Igbanke, the leadership of Igbanke described the suggestion as both laughable and historically inaccurate. They emphasized that kingship in Igbanke communities is hereditary and deeply rooted in ancestral lineage, passing from father to son. The people of Igbanke know their traditional rulers and remain loyal to their own crown—a crown passed down through generations. The community maintains that the Oba of Benin holds no jurisdiction or authority to impose foreign chieftaincy titles on them.

It is important to note that Igbanke is an Igbo-speaking community, although geographically situated in present-day Edo State. The shifting of state boundaries during colonial and post-colonial administration placed them outside the core southeastern Igbo territory, but this did not erase their origin or culture.

As part of a broader unification and renaissance movement among Igbo subgroups, the Igbanke leadership recently embarked on a profound cultural pilgrimage to Aguleri—the ancestral heartland of the Igbo people. This historic journey signified a homecoming and a rekindling of ancestral ties long obscured by geopolitical misplacement.

In Aguleri, they were warmly received by the Eze Aguleri, who performed sacred rites of welcome. The kola nut (Oji Igbo) was broken in honor of their return, and the Nzu (white chalk) was marked to signify peace, purity, and the renewal of kinship. The Eze called upon the ancestors to bear witness to the return of their children and to bestow blessings and protection upon them.

"This is your home. This is your root. This is your family," the Eze declared.

This event marks a significant milestone in the broader Igbo Renaissance, a cultural revival that reaffirms identity, unity, and ancestral pride across the Igbo-speaking world.

Welcome home, Igbanke people. Your journey has brought you full circle—back to your roots, back to your people, back to your heritage.

Okoye Chukwuma Franklin is a Development Journalist, Education consultant and Executive Director of Hallmark Media Hallmark Media (Commonwealth Africa Journal) Abuja

04/06/2025

Benue’s Sorrow, the World’s Silence: As Genocide Unfolds, Governments and Global Powers Look Away

By Okoye Chukwuma Franklin

Benue State, Nigeria – June 4, 2025

The red soil of Ankpali village in Apa Local Government Area bears fresh graves—eleven of them, side by side. One family. Eleven lives extinguished in one night by assailants widely identified by locals as Fulani herdsmen terrorists. They didn’t just kill; they erased an entire lineage, leaving behind the kind of sorrow that cannot be quantified.

No coffins. No dignified ceremony. The urgency to bury the dead amid fear of more attacks eclipsed tradition. Wails of mothers, orphaned children, and broken neighbors pierce the Benue air—but there is no one to answer, no one in power to offer consolation, or even recognition. The massacre, like many before it, is simply absorbed into a system increasingly normalized to bloodshed.

A Pattern Too Clear to Ignore

This is not an isolated tragedy. Over 270 people have been killed in Benue State in just two months. Entire communities have been sacked. Yet, despite eyewitness reports and decades-long patterns implicating Fulani militia in these atrocities, no significant arrests have been made. No prosecutions. No justice.

The silence from Nigeria’s federal government is deafening. More chilling is the reluctance—perhaps fear—of the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to explicitly name the perpetrators. The Chief of Army Staff has since relocated to the state. But again, too late.

There is no strategic ambiguity here. Communities across Benue, Plateau, Southern Kaduna, and Nasarawa have long documented these attacks—systematic killings, displacement, destruction of farms, and occupation of lands. This is ethnic cleansing. This is genocide in slow motion.

The International Community: Silent Witnesses to Genocide

Where is the international community?

The European Union, the United Nations, and powerful Western governments have all issued vague statements about “communal clashes” or “rural violence” in Nigeria. But when entire families are wiped out in coordinated attacks, such language becomes not just inadequate, but complicit.

The same international bodies that rose in alarm over violence in Darfur, South Sudan, and Rwanda now avert their eyes from Benue. The same powers that preach human rights have failed to even acknowledge that Nigeria’s Middle Belt is bleeding—deliberately, systematically, and unprovoked.

Is it geopolitics? Economic interest? Fear of offending a strategic ally in Africa? Or is it the terrifying truth that African lives—even when lost en masse—simply don’t stir the conscience of the world?

The Cost of Complicity

By failing to act—or even speak—the international community emboldens the perpetrators. The absence of consequences becomes a green light. The Nigerian government’s refusal to name and confront the killers creates a vacuum where impunity thrives.

This is not just a security failure. It is a moral collapse.

The displaced now number in the hundreds of thousands. Farmers are afraid to return to their fields. Children are growing up amid trauma. And survivors carry grief that has nowhere to go because justice, like safety, is unreachable.

This Is Not a Country. This Is a Betrayal.

A country that cannot protect its citizens from preventable, targeted killings ceases to function as a state in the moral sense. When leaders shield killers, remain silent, or deny truth, they forfeit legitimacy.

This is no longer about politics. It is about humanity. Benue is crying. Nigeria is bleeding. And the world is watching—with its back turned.

History will remember this silence. And it will not be kind.