By Hadiza Abdulkadir

A 3-foot-tall medical doctor in India, Dr Ganesh Baraiya, is inspiring millions worldwide after his extraordinary journey was spotlighted by BBC News.

Born with dwarfism and standing at just about three feet, Baraiya grew up confronting stigma and low expectations. In the widely circulated report, he recalled being once offered a place in a circus—a path his father firmly rejected in favour of education and a life of dignity.

That decision changed everything.

Against the odds, Baraiya pursued his studies with determination, overcoming social and institutional barriers to qualify as a medical doctor. When discrimination threatened to halt his progress, he refused to back down, taking his fight for equal opportunity to India’s Supreme Court.

Today, the 3-foot-tall doctor stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, courage, and possibility. His story has gone viral, touching hearts across the world and sparking renewed calls for inclusion and equal access for persons with disabilities.

For many, Baraiya’s journey is more than a personal triumph; it is a reminder that greatness is not measured by physical stature but by strength of purpose.

Fresh US intelligence assessments indicate that China could be preparing to supply Iran with new air defense systems in the coming weeks, according to three individuals familiar with the findings, as reported by Cable News Network (CNN).

The development comes shortly after Beijing played a role in brokering a fragile ceasefire that halted recent hostilities between Iran and the United States. The timing is sensitive as President Donald Trump is expected to travel to China next month for talks with President Xi Jinping.

Officials say the intelligence points to possible efforts by Iran to use the pause in fighting to rebuild parts of its military capability with assistance from foreign partners.

Two sources said there are signs that China may attempt to route the weapons through third-party countries in order to conceal their origin.

The weapons in question are believed to be shoulder-fired anti-aircraft systems known as MANPADS. According to the sources, such systems posed a threat to low-flying US military aircraft during the recent five-week conflict and could do so again if fighting resumes.

China has denied the claims. A spokesperson for its embassy in Washington said, “China has never provided weapons to any party to the conflict; the information in question is untrue.”

The spokesperson added, “As a responsible major country, China consistently fulfills its international obligations. We urge the U.S. side to refrain from making baseless allegations, maliciously drawing connections, and engaging in sensationalism; we hope that relevant parties will do more to help de-escalate tensions.”

Earlier, the embassy maintained that Beijing had “been working to help bring about a ceasefire and end to the conflict” since the outbreak of the US-Israel-Iran war.

President Trump said earlier this week that a US F-15 fighter jet downed over Iran was struck by a “handheld shoulder missile, [a] heat-seeking missile.” Iran had earlier claimed it used a “new” air defense system, though it did not disclose details. It remains unclear whether the system was of Chinese origin.

Analysts say any transfer of MANPADS would signal a shift in China’s level of support for Iran since the US and Israel began joint military operations in February. While Chinese firms have continued supplying dual-use technologies to Iran, direct involvement by the Chinese government in weapons transfers would represent a significant escalation.

High-level engagements between Washington and Beijing have continued alongside ceasefire discussions, and Trump’s planned visit is expected to address several of these concerns.

One source familiar with the intelligence said China appears to be balancing its interests. Beijing is seen as avoiding direct involvement in the conflict while maintaining ties with Iran, a key supplier of oil, and preserving plausible deniability.

Sources also noted that China could frame any support as defensive in nature. This position could distinguish its actions from Russia, which has reportedly supported Iran with intelligence sharing during the conflict.

Iran maintains long-standing military and economic ties with both China and Russia. It has also supported Moscow in its war in Ukraine, including the supply of Shahed drones, while continuing to export much of its sanctioned oil to China.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Tinubu has described banditry and terrorism as serious threats to Nigeria’s economy and security, stating that urgent action is required to end the menace.

He said his administration would reinforce the country’s security architecture to tackle the challenge and restore stability.

Tinubu spoke on Monday at the opening session of the two-day National Economic Council conference held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja. He assured Nigerians that decisive steps would be taken against criminal groups responsible for violence across parts of the country.

“To further find means to strengthen our security forces to defeat terrorism and combat banditry.

“That, I promise you…is what has kept all of us sleepless at night, but I assure you that we will win with determination and resilience,” Tinubu said.

He stressed that such acts of violence are not in line with Nigerian values and must be eliminated.

“This banditry and terrorism are unacceptable. It is not part of our culture. It is foreign to us.

“So it is an economic hindrance if we do not find an immediate solution to it.”

His remarks follow a series of deadly attacks in different states. One of the most severe incidents occurred on February 3 in Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, where at least 162 residents lost their lives in an ആക്രമ by suspected extremists.

Reports indicated that the attackers struck after residents rejected demands to adopt a strict version of Sharia law. The violence led to several deaths and injuries, while dozens of people, mostly women and children, were abducted.

Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, had earlier described the incident as a “brutal and deliberate massacre” and genocide.

On the same day, another attack in Doma communities of Faskari Local Government Area in Katsina State left at least 20 people dead after a local peace arrangement broke down.

At the NEC meeting, Tinubu acknowledged the efforts of some state governors in tackling insecurity, particularly those from Borno and Katsina states.

“I commend many of you, particularly the governor of Borno State, Katsina, many of you who have done so much to defend our freedom, liberty and our commonwealth,” he said.

The President also linked the security crisis to ongoing livestock reforms. He noted that the conference should come up with clear decisions on ranching and investment in livestock as part of efforts to address clashes between farmers and herders.

“I’m confident that the resolution of this conference will include dairy farming, livestock investment, ranches and diversification of our agricultural produce.

“I promise you here, I will play my part. I promise Nigeria that this will be delivered,” Tinubu said.

He recalled that he had earlier directed Vice President Kashim Shettima and the NEC to prepare a roadmap for transforming the livestock sector through ranching.

“We must eliminate these areas of conflict and make the livestock reform economically viable,” the President had said at a previous Federal Executive Council meeting.

Following that directive, the NEC inaugurated a Livestock Development Committee chaired by Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris to accelerate the implementation of ranching reforms nationwide.

The ongoing conference, presided over by Vice President Shettima, was convened by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu. It is themed ‘Delivering Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development: The Renewed Hope National Development Plan.’

Participants include state governors, senior government officials, development partners, and private sector representatives. Discussions are expected to focus on key economic priorities such as fiscal coordination, investment drive, and joint development strategies between federal and state governments.

By Sabiu Abdullahi l

The Federal Government has rolled out a fresh set of fiscal measures for 2026, bringing significant changes to import tariffs across several sectors in a bid to boost economic growth.

The decision was contained in a document dated April 1, 2026, and endorsed by the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun. The new framework replaces the 2023 Fiscal Policy Measures.

As part of the reform, authorities reviewed import duties on 127 tariff categories. The affected items include rice, sugar, vehicles, and key industrial materials. According to the government, the reductions are intended to “promote and stimulate growth in critical sectors of the economy”.

One of the notable adjustments is the Import Adjustment Tax on products such as crude palm oil, which now stands at an effective rate of 28.75 percent. This marks a reduction from previous levels.

In the automobile sector, tariffs on fully assembled passenger vehicles, including four-wheel drives and station wagons, have been lowered to 40 percent. The rate was previously set at 70 percent under the 2015 policy.

To cushion the impact of the transition, the government approved a 90-day grace period for importers who opened Form ‘M’ before April 1. This allows them to clear their goods using the old tariff rates.

Despite the reductions, the policy introduces new measures. These include an excise duty regime and a green tax surcharge. Both are expected to take effect from July 1, 2026.

Details released in the gazetted list show revised duties across various goods. Import duty on antimalarial drugs is set at 20 percent. Rice imported in bulk or in quantities above 5kg now attracts 47.5 percent, down from 70 percent, while broken rice is fixed at 30 percent from the previous 70 percent.

Other adjustments include wheat flour at 70 percent, crude palm oil at 28.75 percent from 35 percent, and raw cane sugar at 55 percent from 70 percent. Refined salt now attracts 55 percent, also reduced from 70 percent.

In the manufacturing and construction sectors, duties on items such as ceramic tiles, envelopes, and notebooks have also been lowered. Steel and industrial inputs, including zinc-coated sheets and aluminum-coated coils, now attract 35 percent, down from 45 percent in many cases.

Further changes affect machinery and equipment. Agricultural and manufacturing machines now attract zero duty, reduced from 5 percent. Railway locomotives, cargo ships, and breathing equipment have also been exempted from import duty.

Additionally, modular surgical operating theatres now attract 5 percent duty instead of 20 percent, while air compressors and pumps have been reduced to 5 percent from 10 percent.

The policy also outlines exemptions under the planned green tax surcharge. These cover vehicles below 2000cc, mass transit buses, electric vehicles, and locally produced vehicles within specified categories.

The Federal Government explained that the reforms are designed to strike a balance between revenue generation and economic expansion, while also supporting local industries and reducing the cost of essential imports.

By Anwar Usman

A member of the House of Representatives representing Dawakin-Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency, Mohamed Hassan, is dead.

His death was announced in a statement issued on Friday by his special assistant on media, Muazzam Dawakin-Kudu,  who said Hassan died after a brief illness.

The statement read, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Hon. Barr. M.D. Hassan.”

According to the statement, the late lawmaker will be buried on Saturday, April 11, 2026, following a funeral prayer scheduled to take place at about 1:30 p.m. at the National Mosque, Abuja.

The statement offered prayers for the forgiveness of the deceased’s shortcomings and for Allah to admit him into Aljannatul Firdaus.

Until his passing, Hassan served as the representative of Dawakin-Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency and was widely recognized as an active contributor to legislative proceedings at the National Assembly.

Meanwhile, tributes have continued to pour in from associates, constituents, and political stakeholders, who described his death as a significant loss to the nation.

By Ibraheem A. Waziri

The biweekly discussion session of the Students’ Interactive Forum held on 5 April 2026, themed “Operation Epic Fury: Who Is on the Right Side of History?”, offered more than a debate on contemporary geopolitics. It functioned as an intellectual space where participants interrogated their assumptions, re-evaluated normative positions, and confronted the uneasy realities of global power politics. What emerged was not consensus but clarity: that international conflicts rarely lend themselves to moral binaries, and that national interests often override universal ethical claims.

A noteworthy methodological intervention by the moderator meaningfully shaped the discussion. Participants were encouraged not only to argue from religious, ideological, or moral standpoints—whether as Nigerian Muslims, Christians, or otherwise—but also to situate their arguments within a Nigeria-like stake in the conflict. This requirement subtly but firmly shifted the debate from abstract moralism to applied political reasoning. It compelled participants to ask not merely who is right, but what such “rightness” means for Nigeria’s interests, positioning, and future orientation in the international system.

The ensuing exchange of arguments revealed the fluidity of political judgment in the face of competing narratives. Participants occupied and abandoned positions ranging from pro–America/Israel to pro-Iran, often acknowledging moments of intellectual dissonance and reconciliation. This oscillation underscored a critical feature of political deliberation: that informed engagement often complicates certainty rather than resolves it.

Perhaps the most incisive theoretical contribution came from Rahmah—obviously an International Studies major—who observed that the international system is fundamentally anarchic—a dog-eat-dog arena in which states pursue advantage with limited regard for truth, justice, or morality. Her point resonates strongly with classical realist thought, particularly the notion that power, not principle, remains the primary currency of international relations. In this view, ethical discourse, while not entirely absent, is frequently instrumentalised to justify actions taken in pursuit of strategic self-interest.

Building on this realist insight, the suggestion was made that a deeper appreciation of the conflict requires an examination of the foundational narratives that animate each principal actor. States do not merely pursue interests in a vacuum; they do so through historically constructed identities that shape their sense of purpose and legitimacy.

The United States, for instance, has long styled itself as a Western, Protestant, Anglo-Saxon polity, imbued with a sense of exceptionalism and a perceived moral mandate to shape the global order. Israel grounds its national identity in an ancient religious text and a strong sense of tribal and historical continuity, blending theology, memory, and statehood into a singular narrative. Iran draws heavily on its Shiʿi Islamic heritage, articulating resistance, martyrdom, and moral defiance as central elements of its political identity. Saudi Arabia, in turn, locates its legitimacy primarily in its Sunni Islamic identity and custodianship of sacred Islamic sites.

These narratives are not ornamental; they are constitutive. They inform how states interpret threats, define allies, justify violence, and imagine victory. Even actors not directly involved in a given conflict—such as China, Russia, or Nigeria—operate through their own philosophical attributions, unity bases, and civilisational self-understandings. Engagement or non-engagement is rarely neutral; it is filtered through deeply embedded conceptions of history, destiny, and national purpose.

This analytical turn raises a profound question for Nigeria: What are we? Who are we? Where do we come from, and where do we want to go? Unlike many states with relatively coherent foundational narratives, Nigeria’s identity remains contested, layered, and unfinished. Is Nigeria a mere geographical expression, an administrative inheritance of colonialism, or an emerging civilisational project still in the process of self-definition?

The importance of this question cannot be overstated. A nation’s capacity to navigate international conflicts meaningfully depends not only on its economic strength or security apparatus but also on its clarity of purpose. Without a shared understanding of what Nigeria represents and aspires to become, foreign policy risks becoming reactive, incoherent, or opportunistic.

Ultimately, life—whether for nations or individuals—transcends the pursuit of economic abundance or physical security. These are enabling conditions, not ends in themselves. The more enduring question concerns what is done with stability and prosperity once attained: the values enacted, the institutions built, and the meaning ascribed to power. In this sense, the discussion on Operation Epic Fury served as a mirror, reflecting not only global tensions but also Nigeria’s unfinished conversation with itself.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have detained a former member of the House of Representatives, Aliyu Gebi, over claims that he distributed misleading intelligence reports to foreign embassies in Nigeria.

Security sources disclosed that Gebi, who served in the 7th National Assembly and works as a security consultant, was arrested on Friday, April 3. He has since been released on bail, although investigations are still ongoing. Sources said he must report regularly to the DSS headquarters.

The case was first reported by Premium Times, which stated that the former lawmaker allegedly provided intelligence to foreign missions that authorities later found to be inaccurate.

A source told the newspaper that the reports caused concern among international stakeholders, especially in the aviation sector. “Lufthansa cancelled flights scheduled to take off to Nigeria,” the source said, adding that “British Airways nearly did the same.”

Another source indicated that the same intelligence contributed to a recent advisory issued by the United States government, which warned its citizens about security risks in parts of Nigeria.

The advisory, issued by the US Department of State, cited a “deteriorating security situation.” It urged non-essential personnel to leave Nigeria and advised Americans to reconsider travelling to the country. The warning listed crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, assault and roadside banditry. It also identified high-risk states, including Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Kogi, Kaduna, Katsina, Zamfara and Rivers.

The Nigerian government rejected the advisory and asked foreign partners to ensure their security assessments are “balanced and up-to-date” and reflect “the progress being made” to improve safety across the country.

Sources also revealed that several embassies initially considered acting on the intelligence allegedly linked to Gebi. However, Nigerian authorities intervened through diplomatic engagement, which led to a suspension of planned actions.

“Many embassies received the report and wanted to act on it, but the Nigerian government dialogued with them and they shelved their plans,” another source said. “But the United States went ahead to issue that advisory.”

The incident comes at a time of existing diplomatic strain between Nigeria and the United States. Tensions increased after Washington redesignated Nigeria in 2025 as a “Country of Particular Concern” over allegations of religious persecution, an accusation the Nigerian government has repeatedly denied.

While acknowledging security challenges, the Nigerian government maintains that violence in the country affects different regions and groups, not a single religious bloc.

Gebi has held several roles within Nigeria’s security sector. He served as a member of the House of Representatives between 2011 and 2015, representing a constituency in Bauchi State. During that period, he chaired the House Committee on Internal Security and also participated in the ECOWAS Parliament.

He later worked at the Ministry of Interior as a Senior Special Adviser from 2015 to 2023. He also served as Special Adviser on Non-Kinetic Security Strategies at the Defence Headquarters. In addition, he was the National Coordinator of the Security Governance Initiative, a programme launched during the Obama administration to strengthen security sector governance in Nigeria and other African countries.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A dismissed Nigerian soldier, Rotimi Olamilekan, widely known as Soja Boi, has raised concerns over the absence of children of political leaders in the Nigerian Army, saying their involvement could lead to meaningful changes in the system.

Olamilekan made the remarks in a viral video while reacting to reports about ongoing recruitment into the armed forces. He described the recruitment exercise as positive but expressed doubts about its fairness and transparency.

“I’m seeing some news online that the military is recruiting new people, and it’s very good,” he said. “But I’m still asking: why are politicians’ children not joining them?”

He also questioned why public office holders, including ministers, lawmakers and local government officials, do not allow their children to enlist in the military.

The former lance corporal argued that the absence of children of the elite contributes to persistent challenges within the armed forces.

“If politicians send their children to join the army, many things will change in this country,” he added. “Suffering will reduce, and a lot will improve inside the military.”

Olamilekan has made similar remarks in the past. He linked his concerns to personal experiences during service and the losses recorded in counter-insurgency operations.

“The way I keep losing my colleagues brings tears to my eyes every day,” he had said in a previous video.

He also pointed to welfare issues within the military. He earlier challenged the Nigerian Army to make its payroll public. He shared bank transaction alerts, which he claimed showed modest earnings by soldiers.

Olamilekan was recently dismissed from service over alleged indiscipline and violation of the Armed Forces Social Media Policy. The Nigerian Army had earlier dismissed his claims as false and misleading, but he maintained that his statements were accurate.

“I am not trying to spoil the Nigerian Army’s image or make people look at them as if they are not good. But I am just speaking the facts and I will be backing them with evidence,” he said.

He insisted that real reforms in the military would be easier to achieve if political leaders had direct personal stakes, especially through the participation of their children in military service.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, has faulted United States President Donald Trump over the ongoing conflict with Iran, accusing him of destabilising global peace and worsening international insecurity.

Sonko spoke at a conference focused on Africa’s push for sovereignty. He questioned the purpose of the confrontation and its impact on global stability. He argued that the United States has not achieved its key objectives despite rising tensions.

“Reducing Iran’s ballistic capacity has not been achieved. Forcing Iran to abandon all nuclear programmes, both civil and military, is not an objective that has been achieved,” Sonko said.

He also warned that the consequences of the conflict have been severe and unjustified.

“Yet the world has been plunged into chaos that nothing can justify. Mr Trump is not a man of peace. He is a man who destabilises the world,” he stated.

His remarks come as concerns grow among world leaders over the effect of the US-Iran crisis on global peace and security.

President Trump, on his part, has accused Iran of failing to meet its obligations under arrangements tied to the movement of oil through the Strait of Hormuz. He described Tehran’s conduct as inadequate and criticised its actions in strong terms.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, “Iran is doing a very poor job, dishonorable some would say, of allowing Oil to go through the Strait of Hormuz. That is not the agreement we have!”

He also warned against any attempt by Iran to impose charges on vessels passing through the route. “There are reports that Iran is charging fees to tankers going through the Hormuz Strait — They better not be and, if they are, they better stop now!” Trump wrote on Friday.

These developments follow reports that shipping activities in the Strait of Hormuz remain limited despite a recently announced ceasefire between Washington and Tehran. Al Jazeera reported that only a few vessels have passed through the channel since both sides agreed to a temporary halt in hostilities earlier in the week. The situation has raised fears over continued disruption in global energy supply.

A separate report indicated that a private oil tanker company paid about $2 million to Iran to secure safe passage through the strategic waterway.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, has accused the United States of undermining diplomatic efforts in the region. He stated that “the United States is letting Israel kill diplomacy.”

Araghchi also linked the regional crisis to internal political developments in Israel. He referred to the legal challenges facing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

“Netanyahu’s criminal trial resumes on Sun. A region-wide ceasefire, including Lebanon, would hasten his jailing,” he said.

The exchange of accusations highlights growing tensions among key actors, as the conflict continues to draw international attention and concern.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

US First Lady Melania Trump has publicly rejected claims linking her to late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, saying she has no connection to him and was never one of his victims.

She made the remarks on April 10 in Washington during a rare public statement at the White House, where she addressed growing online speculation about her past and Epstein’s social circle.

Mrs Trump also pushed back against suggestions that Epstein introduced her to US President Donald Trump, insisting she first met her husband at a New York City gathering in 1998. She said she only encountered Epstein later at a separate event attended with Mr Trump.

“The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today,” Mrs Trump said while reading from a prepared statement. She refused to take questions from reporters present.

“I am not Epstein’s victim,” she added, dismissing what she described as false claims about her.

Her comments come as renewed attention builds around the Epstein case, which continues to generate political debate in Washington. The controversy has also drawn criticism of how federal authorities have handled related documents.

Mrs Trump also urged lawmakers to hold open congressional hearings so victims could testify publicly under oath. Her proposal raises the possibility of further scrutiny of the case, which President Trump has attempted to move past.

“I think it’s really time for the country to get on to something else, really, now that nothing came out about me,” Mr Trump said earlier in February.

She also addressed her past interactions with Epstein’s associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, saying any communication was limited and informal. Mrs Trump denied ever having a personal relationship with Epstein.

“I have never been friends with Epstein,” she said. “Donald and I were invited to the same parties as Epstein from time to time, since overlapping in social circles is common in New York City and Palm Beach.”

Mrs Trump added that she first “crossed paths” with Epstein in 2000, years before her marriage, and said she had no knowledge of his criminal activities at the time.

“At the time, I had never met Epstein and had no knowledge of his criminal undertakings,” she said.

Epstein, who previously pleaded guilty in 2008 to state charges in Florida, later faced federal sex-trafficking charges before his death in 2019 in a New York jail, which authorities ruled a suicide.

Reports have also pointed to a 2002 email attributed to Mrs Trump and sent to Ghislaine Maxwell regarding a New York magazine article about Epstein. She described the message as minor and informal.

On April 10, she said the email amounted to “casual correspondence” and called it “a trivial note”.

A senior adviser to the First Lady said her statement was issued to counter what he described as false narratives, adding: “First Lady Melania Trump spoke out now because enough is enough. The lies must stop.”

The renewed discussion has again placed the Epstein case in public debate, with political figures and victims’ groups divided over calls for wider public hearings.