International

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

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 Uzair Adam

The United States Embassy in Abuja has cancelled all visa appointments in the Nigerian capital, asking applicants to check their emails for information about rescheduled dates.

In a notice issued on Thursday, the embassy said visa services would continue at the United States Consulate General Lagos.

The embassy also stated that services for American citizens would remain available through scheduled appointments or emergency requests.

The development followed a decision by the United States Department of State to authorise non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members to depart from Abuja due to what it described as a worsening security situation across Nigeria.

In an updated travel advisory, the department urged American citizens to reconsider travelling to Nigeria, citing concerns including crime, terrorism, kidnapping and civil unrest.

The advisory placed Nigeria under “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while some parts of the country were categorised under “Level 4: Do Not Travel.”

According to the notice, the decision followed a security assessment conducted on April 8.

“On April 8, 2026, the Department of State authorised non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave U.S. Embassy Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation,” the advisory stated.

The department also warned that travellers should reconsider visits to Nigeria because of crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping and inconsistent access to healthcare services.

Several states were listed under the highest risk category, including Borno State, Yobe State, Jigawa State, Niger State, Plateau State, Taraba State and parts of Adamawa State.

Other states mentioned in the advisory included Kaduna State, Kano State, Katsina State, Sokoto State, Zamfara State, Bauchi State and Gombe State, where the department cited risks related to unrest, crime and kidnapping.

The advisory noted that some areas in the country face higher security threats, urging U.S. citizens to remain cautious and monitor official updates before planning travel.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Hundreds of people have been killed and many others injured after Israeli forces carried out a fresh wave of airstrikes across Lebanon, Lebanese Health Minister Rakan Nassereddine has said.

The attacks followed an announcement by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), which confirmed it had executed what it described as its most extensive coordinated military action in Lebanon since the launch of “Operation Roaring Lion.”

In a message shared on its official X account, the IDF stated, “In 10 minutes, the IDF completed the largest coordinated strike across Lebanon since the start of Operation Roaring Lion.”

According to the Israeli military, more than 100 locations linked to Hezbollah were targeted during the operation. These included “headquarters, military arrays, & command-and-control centers in Beirut, Beqaa and southern Lebanon.”

The IDF added that the strikes also focused on “intelligence command centers and central headquarters used planning terror attacks,” alongside “infrastructure of firepower and naval arrays, responsible for launching missiles.”

It further disclosed that the operation hit “assets of the Radwan Force, & the Aerial unit—Hezbollah’s elite units.”

The bombardment affected several parts of the country, including Beirut, the Beqaa Valley, and southern Lebanon. The scale of the assault marks a sharp escalation in the ongoing hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters.

Lebanese authorities confirmed a high number of casualties. However, they have not provided a precise breakdown of those killed or injured. Emergency teams are still working at multiple sites to rescue victims and assess the damage.

Israel indicated that its military campaign will continue. The IDF said it intends to maintain pressure on Hezbollah due to security concerns in northern Israel.

“We will continue striking the Hezbollah terror organization and will utilize every operational opportunity. We will not compromise the security of the residents of northern Israel. We will continue to strike with determination,” said IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, who supervised the operation.

The situation has heightened tensions across the region, with fears growing that the conflict could widen. Cross-border exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah have intensified in recent days.

Israel had earlier stated that it would sustain its strikes on Lebanon despite a two-week ceasefire agreement between Iran and the United States in the broader Middle East conflict.

Several countries have previously urged Israel to halt military actions in Lebanon. Israel, however, maintains that Hezbollah, an ally of Iran, remains a significant threat due to its presence in the country.

Amid the ongoing crisis, Lebanon’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Youssef Raggi, announced a diplomatic move against Iran. He revealed that Lebanon had withdrawn its approval for Iran’s designated ambassador, Mohammad Reza Shibani, and ordered him to leave the country.

In a statement, Raggi said, “I instructed today the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants to summon the Iranian Chargé d’Affaires in Lebanon to inform him of the decision to withdraw the agrément for the designated Iranian Ambassador, Mohammad Reza Shibani, declare him persona non grata, and request that he leave Lebanese territory no later than 29 March 2026.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran has called on its citizens to take protective action around critical national assets following renewed threats from the United States, Sky News reports.

The request comes as multiple attacks on Iran’s strategic infrastructure have heightened fears of a wider regional conflict, with tensions rising between Tehran, Washington, and Israel.

“Iran has called on young people to form human chains around power plants, after Donald Trump threatened to hit them.”

The announcement coincides with a looming deadline issued by former US President Donald Trump, which has intensified uncertainty about possible military operations.

“Trump’s deadline for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by 1am UK time on Wednesday looms.”

Iranian media reported that Kharg Island, a vital hub for oil exports, has been struck again amid the ongoing hostilities.

“Iran’s Kharg Island has been hit by several strikes, according to a report from the Iranian Mehr news agency.”

The island is central to Iran’s economy due to its key role in oil exports.

“The island is an oil export hub for Iran.”

Earlier in the conflict, US strikes avoided causing significant damage to the island’s infrastructure.

“The US bombed the island earlier in the war but Donald Trump made a point of saying at the time that it left Iran’s oil infrastructure alone.”

Nevertheless, Trump has previously hinted at targeting the island for strategic leverage.

“Trump has, at various points, threatened that the US could take the island to control Iran’s oil.”

Recent reports from US media also point to fresh military action targeting facilities on Kharg Island.

“The US has conducted strikes on military targets on Iran’s Kharg ⁠Island, according to American news website Axios, citing an unidentified senior US official.”

Elsewhere in Iran, additional strikes hit transport infrastructure in the central and northern regions.

“We’re receiving reports from Iranian media that a recent Israeli strike struck the Yahya Abad railway bridge in the city of Kashan, in central Iran.”

Authorities confirmed casualties in one incident, highlighting the impact on civilians.

“The Mehr News agency quoted the deputy governor of Isfahan as saying that the strike killed two people.”

Further disruptions occurred on major routes in the north-west and north, following safety warnings issued by Israeli forces.

“Strikes were also reported on the Tabriz-Zanjan freeway in the northwest and a railway in Karaj in the north.”

By Anwar Usman

Iran has rejected a proposed truce in its war with the United States and Israel, state media reported Monday, despite a stark threat by US President Donald Trump to destroy its vital infrastructure.

“Iran has conveyed to Pakistan its response to the American proposal to end the war,” the news agency IRNA said, without revealing its source or what the US offer contained.

“In this response—set out in ten points—Iran… has rejected a ceasefire and insists on the need for a definitive end to the conflict.”

AFP reports that, several countries are trying to find a diplomatic solution to end 38 days of war sparked by Israeli and US attacks against Iran, which has responded by firing missiles at targets across the Middle East.

Recall on Sunday President Trump warned that, unless Tehran agreed by Tuesday evening to allow free passage to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, he would order strikes on its power plants and bridges.

But IRNA said Tehran had countered with demands of its own, including “an end to conflicts in the region, a protocol for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, reconstruction, and the lifting of sanctions”.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran has permitted a French-linked vessel to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, despite the continuing conflict in the region.

The ship, identified as Kribi, sails under the Maltese flag and is owned by French shipping company CMA CGM. It is the first Western vessel to exit the Persian Gulf since hostilities involving Iran began.

Reports indicate that ships from countries such as China, Pakistan and the Philippines have successfully navigated the strait in recent days.

However, Iran’s military has maintained that the strategic waterway will remain closed to vessels linked to the United States and Israel for the foreseeable future.

There are also claims that Iran has introduced charges for ships seeking passage through the strait, with fees said to be as high as $2 million. It remains unclear whether the Kribi paid any such fee.

Tracking data suggests the vessel travelled close to Iran’s coastline while passing through the strait.

Meanwhile, attention remains on the fate of a United States fighter jet crew after their aircraft was downed in Iran. One crew member has been rescued, while the other is still missing.

A geopolitical analyst, Mona Yacoubian, said: “It could be that the US finds whoever this is, and the Iranians don’t have control over this person, but if they do, I think that that is a further escalation of the war. That’s going to present a new challenge for President Trump.

“If there are images that are broadcast of a US fighter pilot taken hostage, captured as a prisoner, that’s going to elevate the challenges in the US domestically, because now you’re going to have this conflict brought home even more personally, into people’s living rooms, on their computer screens… I think it will then increase the pressure further on the administration to do something.”

In a separate reaction, Iran’s parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, criticised the United States over the situation, stating: “After defeating Iran 37 times in a row, this brilliant no-strategy war they started has now been downgraded from ‘regime change’ to ‘Hey! Can anyone find our pilots? Please?’.

“Wow. What incredible progress. Absolute geniuses.”

The developments highlight rising tensions in the region, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining a critical route for global oil shipments and a focal point in the ongoing crisis.

 By Hadiza Abdulkadir

A recent viral moment featuring a popular online personality inside a WWE setting has reignited debate about the future of professional wrestling. The clip, widely shared across platforms like TikTok and Instagram, drew millions of views within hours and prompted criticism from longtime fans who questioned whether WWE is drifting away from its roots.

The discussion reflects a broader issue facing World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE): how to remain relevant in an era increasingly dominated by short-form digital content and younger audiences with changing viewing habits.

For decades, WWE built its success on long-form storytelling. Weekly television programs developed narratives over time, leading to major live events. However, audience behaviour has shifted significantly, particularly among Gen Z viewers.

Younger audiences are more likely to consume highlights rather than full broadcasts, favouring short, engaging clips over multi-hour programming. This trend has affected not only wrestling but also traditional sports and entertainment formats.

Industry observers note that this shift has forced companies like WWE to rethink how content is delivered and consumed.

In response, WWE has expanded its digital presence, focusing heavily on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. The company now generates substantial engagement through clips, behind-the-scenes content, and shareable moments designed for online audiences.

Part of this strategy includes collaborations with influencers and internet personalities to attract viewers who may not traditionally follow wrestling. These appearances often generate significant online traction, helping WWE reach new demographics.

Despite the increased visibility, some fans argue that WWE’s current approach prioritises virality over storytelling. Critics suggest that certain segments appear designed for social media engagement rather than long-term narrative development.

There are also concerns about authenticity. The inclusion of non-wrestling personalities in prominent roles has led some to question whether the company is diluting its core identity.

Others, however, see the shift as part of WWE’s long history of adaptation. The company has undergone multiple transformations, from the edgier “Attitude Era” of the late 1990s to the more family-oriented programming of later years.

Media analysts point out that WWE’s current strategy reflects broader industry trends, where digital reach and online engagement are increasingly important metrics of success.

As WWE continues to expand its presence across digital platforms and explore new partnerships, the debate over its direction is likely to continue.

The central question remains: is WWE moving too far from its traditional identity, or is it successfully redefining itself for a new generation of viewers?

For now, one thing is clear: professional wrestling is no longer confined to the ring. It is part of a larger, rapidly evolving digital entertainment landscape.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Lamine Yamal has condemned what he described as a “racist” and “intolerable” chant heard during a 0–0 draw between Spain and Egypt, warning that discrimination remains entrenched in football culture.

The teenager took to social media shortly after the match, identifying himself as a Muslim and criticising supporters who chanted “the one who doesn’t boo is Muslim” inside the stadium. While noting the chant may have been aimed at opposing fans, Yamal said intent did not lessen its impact.

“As a Muslim, it doesn’t stop being a lack of respect and something intolerable,” he wrote, adding that using religion as a joke “makes you look ignorant and racist.”

The remarks quickly drew attention across the football world, with anti-discrimination advocates pointing to the incident as further evidence of the persistence of abuse in the game. Despite repeated campaigns led by FIFA and UEFA, discriminatory chanting—whether based on race, religion, or nationality—continues to surface in stadiums.

Analysts say religion-based taunts are often trivialised as fan rivalry but can reinforce exclusion and hostility, particularly toward minority players. Yamal’s intervention reflects a growing willingness among high-profile footballers to publicly challenge such behaviour.

He ended his message by thanking fans who supported the team and looking ahead to future competitions, including the FIFA World Cup.

The incident adds to mounting pressure on football authorities to strengthen enforcement measures and ensure stadiums are safe and respectful spaces for all players and supporters.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has marked the first anniversary of its Corporate Social Responsibility programme, known as ‘Customs Cares’, with the commissioning of a major project at Government Secondary School, Wuse, Abuja.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, performed the ceremony on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, in the presence of students, teachers and other stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, Adeniyi said the decision to adopt the school under the CSR framework has yielded positive results, especially in academic performance and the learning environment.

“What we have seen here today shows clearly that we did not make a mistake in adopting this school. The performance by the students reflects the impact of what has been done,” CGC Adeniyi said.

He explained that the intervention goes beyond physical structures. He noted that it has opened up opportunities for students to interact, discover their talents and improve academically.

“This is not just about infrastructure. It is about creating opportunities for young people to grow, interact and build confidence for the future,” he said.

The Customs boss also praised the school management for identifying key areas of need early. He said this helped the Service to focus on infrastructure and security improvements.

He stated that the Service renovated important facilities and installed solar-powered lighting to enhance safety within the school.

“This is a promise made and a promise kept. We are pleased that the project has been delivered on time and to the benefit of the students,” Adeniyi said.

Adeniyi advised students to make good use of the new facilities. He stressed the importance of building communication and public speaking skills for future success.

“You must take advantage of what has been provided here. These facilities are meant to help you discover yourselves and prepare for greater responsibilities ahead,” he added.

He also highlighted the need to maintain the facilities. He warned that many public projects fail due to poor maintenance. He called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration to consider partnerships that will support long-term upkeep.

“Our office remains open for further collaboration, but we must ensure that what has been provided is properly sustained,” he said.

Earlier, the Comptroller in charge of the Customs Cares Unit, Patience Ibrahim, said the event celebrated both the initiative’s first anniversary and the delivery of one of its key projects.

She said the programme was designed to address development needs in communities where the Service operates.

“In just one year, the initiative has grown into a recognised platform for delivering impactful projects across the country, and this intervention reflects the Service’s commitment to education as a driver of national development,” she said.

The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Education Board, Danlami Hayyo, described the project as a strong example of institutional collaboration. He said it shows a clear commitment to the future of students.

“This intervention goes beyond infrastructure. It represents a commitment to the future of these students and to the broader goal of sustainable development,” he said.

Hayyo commended the NCS for extending its efforts to key sectors such as education, health and the environment. He added that the initiative creates room for stronger cooperation with the education sector.

The Principal of Government Secondary School, Wuse, Josephine Ugwu, said the project marks an important milestone in the school’s partnership with the Customs Service.

She listed the components of the intervention to include the renovation of the multi-purpose hall, installation of CCTV cameras, provision of solar-powered streetlights and distribution of learning materials.

“These facilities have transformed our environment. The hall will now serve as a centre for learning, cultural activities and talent development,” she said.

Ugwu said the project will have a lasting effect on students and improve the sense of community within the school.

Activities at the event included a basketball match between the Nigeria Customs Service team and students of the school.

The Customs Comptroller-General and his team also planted trees alongside officials of the Federal Capital Territory Secondary Education Board and other invited guests.