Today's Watch

17/06/2025

Israel conducted a high-profile assassination in Tehran, targeting Ali Shadmani, Iran’s recently appointed head of the elite Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters. Described as Iran’s top military commander and closest to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, this act signifies a significant escalation in the conflict between the two nations. The attack follows the recent assassination of Shadmani’s predecessor, Gholam Ali Rashid. Anticipating a strong response from Iran, analysts predict potential retaliation such as missile strikes or drone attacks. The situation intensifies an already volatile climate with daily exchanges of attacks and growing economic repercussions on both sides. Global powers are monitoring closely for further developments amidst fears of regional war escalation.

08/05/2025

In the event of a hypothetical escalation, it's difficult to predict exactly what might happen. However, here's a possible scenario:
Russia's continued aggression could lead to:
1. Increased NATO involvement: NATO might provide more military aid to Ukraine, potentially leading to direct confrontations between Russian and NATO forces.
2. Escalating sanctions: The international community could impose harsher economic sanctions on Russia, crippling its economy.
3. Cyber warfare: Russia might engage in cyber attacks against NATO countries, leading to a broader conflict.
4. Military mobilization: NATO countries could mobilize their military forces, leading to a buildup of troops and equipment along Russia's borders.
5. Potential for nuclear escalation: In a worst-case scenario, the conflict could escalate to the point where nuclear weapons are used.
However, it's essential to note that:
- NATO and Russia have mechanisms in place to prevent accidental escalation.
- Diplomatic efforts continue to seek a peaceful resolution.
- The international community recognizes the catastrophic consequences of a large-scale conflict.
While the situation remains volatile, it's crucial to rely on credible sources for updates and avoid speculative or sensationalized reporting.

30/04/2025

Here are the details of past matches between Nigeria's Super Eagles and South Africa's Bafana Bafana:

- *AFCON 2023 Semifinal*
Based on previous encounters, Nigeria has a strong record against South Africa.
- *World Cup Qualification Match (June 7, 2024)*: The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Nigeria scoring 1 goal in the second half to equalize South Africa's first-half goal.
- *CAF Olympic Qualification (Women's) Matches*:
- *April 5, 2024*: Nigeria won 1-0 at home.
- *April 9, 2024*: The match ended in a 0-0 draw.
- *Head-to-Head Record*: In their last 14 meetings, Nigeria has won 7 matches, while South Africa has won only 1 match. There have been 4 draws between the two teams.

It's worth noting that Nigeria has a strong record against South Africa in major tournaments, including the AFCON. In their last AFCON semifinal appearances, Nigeria won 2-0 in 2000. They also won 2-1 in the 2019 quarterfinals.

30/04/2025

News; THREE MINISTERS HAS BEEN REMOVED.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sacked the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, from their positions. Additionally, Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, has also been dismissed.

According to a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the removal of the Defence ministers was attributed to their failure in halting the ongoing violence against innocent Nigerians nationwide. The decision to oust the Minister of Power stemmed from his inability to improve the power situation during his two-year tenure.

19/02/2025

12/02/2025

12 /02/ 2025 8:45 PM.

US Defense Secretary urge that Ukraine should reconsider the possibility of reclaiming all lost territory from Russia."

"U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that NATO membership for Ukraine was deemed unrealistic. He suggested Kyiv should focus on a negotiated peace settlement supported by international troops rather than aiming to reclaim all lost territory from Russia. President Trump later announced negotiations with Russian President Putin to end the Ukraine conflict, signaling a shift in U.S. policy towards Ukraine. Hegseth emphasized Trump's push for European allies to take on more financial and military responsibilities in supporting Ukraine's defense, potentially through a non-U.S. peacekeeping force without Article 5 protections.

This implies a realistic approach to the situation, acknowledging the challenges Ukraine faces in reclaiming lost territories. It also indicates a shift in perspective towards potentially seeking alternative solutions or strategies rather than focusing solely on military efforts to regain all lost territory.

06/02/2025

"UN Informs Trump: Deportation Prohibited in Occupied Territories"

The United Nations reiterated its firm stance against deporting individuals from occupied territories. Volker Türk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, emphasized this position in response to President Donald Trump's surprising suggestion for the United States to assume control of Gaza and relocate its inhabitants.

Following a 15-month conflict sparked by Hamas's 2023 attack on Israel, which led to significant destruction in parts of the Gaza Strip, Trump has claimed credit for brokering a recent ceasefire agreement. His proposal involves relocating over two million Palestinians from Gaza or assuming control of the region with plans to clear unexploded ordnance, debris, and initiate economic revitalization efforts.

"It is imperative that we progress to the next phase of the ceasefire by releasing all hostages and arbitrarily detained prisoners, putting an end to the war, and initiating the reconstruction of Gaza while upholding international humanitarian law and human rights standards.

"The suffering endured by individuals in both the occupied Palestinian territories and Israel has been intolerable. Both Palestinians and Israelis deserve peace and security founded on mutual dignity and equality," stated Türk.

Türk emphasized the unequivocal nature of international law, highlighting that the right to self-determination is a core tenet that all states must uphold."

"The forcible transfer or deportation of individuals from occupied territories is unequivocally prohibited," he emphasized.

Trump's suggestion to assume control of the Gaza Strip and relocate its inhabitants was met with strong opposition from Palestinians, leaders across the Middle East, and governments globally on Wednesday.

Trump's unexpected declaration drew audible gasps when he revealed it during a joint press conference on Tuesday alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whom he was hosting at the White House for discussions.

06/02/2025

President Bola Tinubu raised the 2025 fiscal year appropriation bill from N49.7 trillion to N54.2 trillion, as revealed in letters sent to the Senate and House of Representatives. Minister Atiku Bagudu clarified that the increase aimed to boost revenue for the Bank of Agriculture, Bank of Industry, solid minerals sector, and infrastructure projects. Despite this, Hon. Kingsley Chinda criticized the procedural aspects of the increment. Tinubu credited a N4.53 trillion rise in revenues to improved performances by agencies like FIRS, Nigeria Customs Service, and other Government-owned Agencies (GOEs). The letters were presented during plenary sessions by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas respectively.

The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development emerged as the primary beneficiary of the increased revenues, receiving N1 trillion. Initially allocated N6 billion, this was raised to N9 billion by the National Assembly joint committee on Solid Minerals. The Senate directed swift consideration by the Senate Committee on Appropriations after reviewing a letter from the president. The additional revenue of N4,530,479,970,637 is proposed for allocation in the 2025 Appropriation Bill to address critical national needs. This includes funding for sectors like solid minerals development, agriculture banks recapitalization, infrastructure projects, and military accommodations as outlined in Tinubu's proposal.

05/02/2025

President Donald Trump expressed intentions to have the US "take over" the Gaza Strip, suggesting Palestinians should permanently leave and be resettled in countries like Egypt and Jordan. He mentioned plans for development, job creation, and envisioning Gaza as a prosperous region. This proposal contradicts decades of US policy, facing skepticism domestically and rejection from Saudi Arabia. The idea of forced displacement raises concerns among Arab allies and echoes historical grievances of Palestinian displacement in 1948. Netanyahu found the proposal noteworthy while Egypt and Jordan rejected the resettlement plans.

During discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, President Trump suggested resettling all Palestinians in Gaza under US control. He proposed developing the region, clearing explosives, and creating jobs. This idea faced skepticism in the US and opposition from Saudi Arabia. The proposal contradicts longstanding US policy and has stirred concern in the Arab world. Trump envisioned a diverse population living in Gaza, aiming to transform it into a prosperous hub. While Netanyahu found the proposal intriguing, other regional powers like Egypt and Jordan have rejected similar plans previously due to historical sensitivities surrounding Palestinian displacement.

1. Trump suggested resettling all Palestinians in Gaza and having the US take over the Gaza Strip for development.
2. This proposal contradicts decades of US policy and has faced skepticism within the US and rejection from Saudi Arabia, a key ally.
3. The plan to resettle Palestinians outside Gaza has been rejected by Egypt and Jordan as well.
4. The forced displacement of Palestinians is seen as controversial, reminiscent of historical events, and opposed by Arab nations.
5. Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its support for a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital before considering diplomatic relations with Israel.

Riyadh emphasized that achieving lasting peace in Gaza hinges on Palestinians receiving the rights outlined in international resolutions, a point reiterated to both past and present US administrations. The specifics of potential American involvement in Gaza remain unclear. Experts suggest such an endeavor would demand a significant, long-term commitment of US troops and evoke memories of challenges faced in nation-building efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Amidst these discussions, Jordan's King Abdullah is set to meet with President Trump to advocate against relocating Palestinians from Gaza. The region seeks stability through ceasefire agreements and hopes for reconstruction post-conflict.