Month: March 2026

By Anas Abbas

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has begun to impact Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, as the Dangote Petroleum Refinery announced a fresh increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), pushing it to about N1,245 per litre.

The latest adjustment reflects rising global crude oil prices triggered by geopolitical tensions in the region, particularly the ongoing hostilities involving major oil-producing countries.

Industry analysts say the surge in international oil benchmarks has significantly raised production and replacement costs for refiners.

Sources within the petroleum industry indicated that the new price was communicated to marketers and depot operators, with immediate effect across distribution channels. The increment marks another upward review in a series of price changes recorded within a short period.

Data from recent market trends show that petrol prices at the refinery have been on a steady rise in recent weeks,climbing from about N774 per litre to over N1,100 within days before reaching the current level.

Experts attribute the persistent increases to volatility in global crude oil markets, foreign exchange pressures, and supply uncertainties linked to the Middle East crisis. The situation has driven crude prices above the 100 dollar per barrel mark, further intensifying cost pressures on refiners.

The development is expected to have a ripple effect nationwide, as fuel marketers adjust pump prices in line with the higher depot cost. Analysts warn that the increase could worsen inflationary pressures, raising transportation costs and the prices of goods and services across the country.

Despite expectations that local refining would stabilise fuel prices, the latest hike underscores Nigeria’s continued exposure to global oil market dynamics, even with increased domestic production capacity.

Femi Fani-Kayode, Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany, has called on citizens to rally behind President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The former minister of aviation is among the 65 ambassadors recently cleared for deployment earlier in March.

In a statement released on Friday, Fani-Kayode extended Eid-el-Fitr greetings to Muslims in Nigeria and abroad. He also expressed optimism about the current administration, stating that “Tinubu is on the right path to transform the nation”.

Eid-el-Fitr marks the end of the Ramadan fast observed by Muslims worldwide.

Fani-Kayode encouraged Nigerians to uphold the values practiced during Ramadan, such as patience, compassion, generosity, and unity. He stressed that these qualities are important for peaceful coexistence and national unity, regardless of ethnic or religious differences.

The envoy also voiced confidence in the country’s future under Tinubu’s leadership. He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to good governance and national development.

He offered prayers for peace, stability, and progress in the country, while wishing Muslims a happy Eid celebration.

United States President Donald Trump has criticised NATO members for failing to support Washington and Israel in the ongoing war with Iran, as tensions continue to disrupt global energy supplies.

The Strait of Hormuz remains largely inaccessible amid the conflict. The waterway is a key route for global oil and gas shipments. The situation has raised concerns across international markets, with no clear end to the fighting.

In a post shared on his Truth Social platform on Friday, Trump described NATO countries as “COWARDS, and we will REMEMBER!”

He faulted the alliance for refusing to participate in the military effort against Iran. He also accused them of complaining about rising oil prices despite staying out of the conflict.

“Now that fight is militarily WON, with very little danger for them, they complain about the high oil prices they are forced to ⁠pay, but don’t want to help open ⁠the Strait of Hormuz, a simple military maneuver that is the single reason for the high oil prices. So easy for them to do, with so ⁠little risk,” he wrote.

Trump has repeatedly urged key allies to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, which is under Iranian control. Many of those countries were not consulted before the war began.

The conflict, which started on February 28 following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, has caused widespread destruction. Thousands of people have died, while millions have been displaced. It has also triggered instability in global financial markets.

Amid the developments, NATO confirmed it is modifying its mission in Iraq. This followed reports that personnel had been temporarily withdrawn due to the security situation.

“We can confirm that we are adjusting our posture in the context of NATO Mission Iraq,” alliance spokesperson Allison Hart said.

NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, US Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich, also confirmed that mission personnel in Iraq had been relocated to Europe.

“I would like to thank the Republic of Iraq and all the Allies who assisted in the safe relocation of NATO personnel from Iraq,” the statement reads.

European leaders have, however, signalled reluctance to join the conflict. Speaking after a European Union summit in Brussels, French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the need for diplomacy.

“I have ‌not heard anyone here express a willingness to enter this conflict – quite the opposite.”

He added that respecting international law and reducing tensions remained “the best we can do”.

The war has dominated discussions among European leaders, especially its impact on energy prices. Reports indicate that there is no unified position within the European Union on how to respond to the crisis.

Officials have warned that energy costs may continue to rise in the coming months, as uncertainty persists over supply routes and market stability.

Switzerland has halted the approval of licences for weapons exports to the United States due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, citing its policy of neutrality.

The Swiss government announced the decision on Friday. It said the measure would remain in place for the duration of the war.

“The export of war materiel to countries involved ⁠in the international armed conflict with Iran cannot be authorised for the duration of the conflict,” the government said.

“Exports of war materiel to the USA ‌cannot currently be authorised,” it added.

The development comes as the US-Israel war on Iran approaches its third week. The conflict has worsened the humanitarian situation across the Middle East and pushed global energy prices higher.

Swiss authorities have also shut their airspace to US military flights connected to the war. Last weekend, officials rejected two requests from the US for overflight linked to Iran operations, although three others were approved.

Switzerland’s neutrality law guides decisions on arms transfers. A federal act adopted in 1996 requires export licences for military equipment. The law is based on respect for human rights and the country’s neutral stance.

Since the war began on February 28, Switzerland said it has not issued any new export licences to the United States.

The government noted that it has not granted definitive licences for arms exports to Israel for several years. The same position applies to Iran.

Existing licences issued to the US will now undergo periodic review by a panel of experts. The group will assess whether further action is needed under neutrality rules.

Officials also confirmed that exports of dual-use goods and certain military items will face regular checks.

“A restrictive approach is already in place with regard to Israel,” the government said.

Data from Swiss authorities show that the United States was the second-largest buyer of Swiss arms last year. The total value of exports stood at $119 million.

Switzerland has taken similar steps in the past. It blocked the transfer of Swiss-made weapons to Ukraine after Russia’s invasion in 2022. It also imposed restrictions on flights and arms exports during the US-led Iraq war in 2003, although those measures were later lifted.

Switzerland has halted the approval of licences for weapons exports to the United States due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, citing its policy of neutrality.

The Swiss government announced the decision on Friday. It said the measure would remain in place for the duration of the war.

“The export of war materiel to countries involved ⁠in the international armed conflict with Iran cannot be authorised for the duration of the conflict,” the government said.

“Exports of war materiel to the USA ‌cannot currently be authorised,” it added.

The development comes as the US-Israel war on Iran approaches its third week. The conflict has worsened the humanitarian situation across the Middle East and pushed global energy prices higher.

Swiss authorities have also shut their airspace to US military flights connected to the war. Last weekend, officials rejected two requests from the US for overflight linked to Iran operations, although three others were approved.

Switzerland’s neutrality law guides decisions on arms transfers. A federal act adopted in 1996 requires export licences for military equipment. The law is based on respect for human rights and the country’s neutral stance.

Since the war began on February 28, Switzerland said it has not issued any new export licences to the United States.

The government noted that it has not granted definitive licences for arms exports to Israel for several years. The same position applies to Iran.

Existing licences issued to the US will now undergo periodic review by a panel of experts. The group will assess whether further action is needed under neutrality rules.

Officials also confirmed that exports of dual-use goods and certain military items will face regular checks.

“A restrictive approach is already in place with regard to Israel,” the government said.

Data from Swiss authorities show that the United States was the second-largest buyer of Swiss arms last year. The total value of exports stood at $119 million.

Switzerland has taken similar steps in the past. It blocked the transfer of Swiss-made weapons to Ukraine after Russia’s invasion in 2022. It also imposed restrictions on flights and arms exports during the US-led Iraq war in 2003, although those measures were later lifted.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran has issued a strong warning to officials of the United States and Israel, stating that they are no longer safe anywhere in the world after recent attacks linked to both countries.

The warning came from a senior Iranian military spokesperson, Abolfazl Shekarchi, who said the risks faced by their adversaries may extend beyond traditional battle zones.

In a statement aired on Iranian state television, Shekarchi said, “From now on, based on the information we have about you, even parks, recreational areas and tourist destinations anywhere in the world will no longer be safe for you.”

The statement signals a sharp rise in tensions, as Tehran suggests it could widen the scope of its response to what it views as hostile actions.

The development follows a series of reported strikes connected to the United States and Israel. Iranian authorities have since pledged a firm response, which has added to fears of further escalation.

Observers say the latest remarks reflect growing concern over a possible expansion of the conflict, as threats continue to intensify between the sides.

The situation has also been fueled by reports of Israeli operations that led to the killing of senior Iranian officials, which has further deepened hostilities.

Meanwhile, the crisis appears to be drawing in more regional actors. The leader of Yemen’s Houthi Movement, Abdul-Malik al-Houthi, has announced support for Iran in the ongoing confrontation with the United States and Israel.

In a televised address monitored on Friday, Al-Houthi accused Washington of supporting Israel’s military actions in the region. He warned that any US involvement against Iran would be seen as a direct threat to Yemen and the broader “Islamic nation.

“Because he considers it the biggest obstacle in the way of accomplishing his plan,” Al-Houthi said.

He added, “Therefore, any attack or US aggression supporting the Israeli enemy against Iran within the framework of the goal itself, is a throw to empower the Israeli enemy from controlling the entire region. And this is what cannot be silenced.”

The comments mark a notable escalation from the Iran-aligned group, which has previously targeted shipping routes in the Red Sea and launched attacks linked to Israeli interests. Analysts warn that the growing rhetoric and alliances could push the region closer to a wider conflict.

By Uzair Adam

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has congratulated residents of the state on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

This was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

Governor Yusuf described Eid-el-Fitr as a period for gratitude, reflection and renewed commitment to the values of faith, unity and compassion demonstrated throughout Ramadan.

He urged residents to celebrate the Sallah festivities peacefully and responsibly, cautioning against any actions that could disrupt the peace and stability of the state.

The governor stressed the need to sustain tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among the people, regardless of their differences.

He also called on parents and guardians to guide their children to be law-abiding and to conduct themselves properly during the celebrations.

Governor Yusuf further encouraged residents to show kindness and support to the less privileged, in line with Islamic teachings, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

He also assured that adequate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure a hitch-free celebration across Kano State.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A British journalist narrowly escaped death after a missile exploded just metres from his position while he was reporting in southern Lebanon on Thursday, March 19, 2026.

Steve Sweeney, the Lebanon Bureau Chief for RT, was covering the destruction of civilian infrastructure near the Al-Qasmiya Bridge when the strike occurred. Dramatic footage showed Sweeney diving for cover as the missile hit the ground behind him, sending thick black smoke into the air.

Both Sweeney and his cameraman, Ali Rida, suffered shrapnel injuries and were taken to a local hospital for emergency treatment.

After surgery to remove shrapnel from his arm, Sweeney accused the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) of trying to “silence” journalists reporting on what he described as a widespread campaign of ethnic cleansing.

“Today I$rael tried to kill me in a targeted airstrike in southern Lebanon as I was reporting on was the targeting of bridges and the forced displacement of 1 million people, an ethnic cleansing operation on a larger scale than the Nakba,” Sweeney stated on his X handle.

He rejected claims that the strike was accidental, emphasizing that his team was wearing marked “PRESS” vests and had permission from the Lebanese Army to film.

“I have absolutely no doubt that this was deliberate. Despite claims there were no warnings ahead of the strike and no notifications sent to the Lebanese Army who allowed us to film,” Sweeney said.

The journalist also criticized international backers of Israel, accusing Western powers of enabling the violence.

“It is the western powers who provide political and military support for Israel, arming it to the teeth to carry out genocide in Gaza and ethnic cleansing here in Lebanon,” he said. “They are not simply complicit, but active participants and should be held accountable.”

Russia’s Foreign Ministry condemned the attack. Spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that the strike “cannot be called accidental,” noting that over 200 journalists have been killed in Gaza since the regional conflict began.

While the IDF claimed the bridge was a “Hezbollah crossing” and that warnings had been posted online, Sweeney said no direct notification reached either the journalists or the Lebanese Army units securing the area.

Despite the near-fatal attack, Sweeney vowed to continue reporting from the region.

“If Israel thinks today’s strike will silence us and keep us out of the field, they are very, very mistaken,” he concluded.

President Bola Tinubu has called on Muslims across Nigeria to use the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations to pray for peace, prosperity, and national unity.

The message was conveyed on Thursday through a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. Tinubu urged Nigerian Muslims to rededicate themselves to the principles of Ramadan, which emphasise piety, empathy, and harmony among people.

“As Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Muslim faithful in Nigeria, urging renewed commitment to the nation and humanity,” the statement read.

“We have a lot to draw from the noble lessons of Ramadan, especially at a time like this. We must continue to abide by the virtues of piety, selflessness, perseverance, kindness and compassion beyond this period,” Tinubu added.

The President also encouraged Muslims to reach out to the needy, regardless of their faith, as a demonstration of unity and solidarity.

This call comes as the nation prepares to mark the end of Ramadan, a period of reflection, fasting, and spiritual renewal for Muslims worldwide.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Fresh security concerns have surfaced in Washington after unidentified drones were seen flying over a sensitive United States military installation.

The Washington Post reported that the drones were detected above Fort McNair, a facility where Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth are accommodated. The report cited three individuals who were briefed on the development.

Officials have not determined where the drones came ⁠from, the report said, citing two of the people familiar with the matter, leaving questions over their origin unanswered.

The situation has led to internal discussions within government circles about whether Rubio and Hegseth should be relocated from the base due to safety worries. Despite those concerns, both officials are still at the facility. A senior administration official confirmed this, according to the report.

The newspaper also noted that the U.S. military has increased its surveillance of potential threats. This comes amid heightened alert levels linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran.

Reuters reported it could not independently verify the development at the time.

Meanwhile, both the Pentagon and the U.S. State Department have not issued official statements on the matter. When approached by the Washington Post, Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell declined to provide details.

“The department cannot comment on the secretary’s (Hegseth’s) movements for security ⁠reasons, and reporting on such movements is grossly irresponsible,” he told the Post.