International

By Muhammad Abubakar

A renowned mathematician and infectious disease modeller, Professor Abba B. Gumel, has been elected President-Elect of the Society for Mathematical Biology (SMB), becoming the first African to attain the prestigious position.

The announcement was celebrated by academics and researchers across the world, including Dr Salihu Sabiu Musa, who described the achievement as a major milestone for mathematical biology and African scholarship.

The Society for Mathematical Biology is one of the world’s leading professional organisations dedicated to advancing research and education at the intersection of mathematics and the life sciences.

Professor Gumel is internationally recognised for his pioneering contributions to infectious disease modelling, particularly in the study of epidemics and public health challenges. His work has influenced scientific understanding of disease transmission and informed public health responses globally.

According to Dr Musa, Professor Gumel’s election reflects his outstanding scholarship, leadership, and commitment to mentoring students and early-career researchers. He noted that the professor has inspired and supported countless scientists worldwide through his research and academic guidance.

Scholars have described the development as a significant achievement for Africa, highlighting the growing global impact of African researchers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Professor Gumel is expected to help shape the future direction of mathematical biology as the field continues to play an increasingly important role in addressing global health and environmental challenges.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that NATO has been unable to achieve its objective of defeating Russia through the conflict in Ukraine, as he renewed criticism of the Western military alliance.

Putin made the remarks at the Kremlin during a meeting with military personnel involved in what Moscow describes as its special military operation. The event formed part of activities marking Russia Day.

According to the Russian leader, his country is confronting what he called the collective West, led by NATO, with several nations backing actions against Russia.

”It was them (NATO) who started the war,” he emphasized. “I have said this many times, we did not initiate the conflict when the special military operation began (in 2022).”

Putin maintained that developments in Ukraine before the outbreak of hostilities forced Russia to take action. He argued that what he described as NATO’s “coup d’etat in Ukraine” and the deployment of military systems prompted Moscow to protect residents of Crimea in 2014, which later contributed to fighting in eastern Ukraine.

“We did not wake up one day and decided that we would start a war tomorrow,” he said. “For eight years, we attempted to achieve a peaceful settlement.”

The Russian president also recalled efforts by Moscow to encourage dialogue between Ukrainian authorities and residents of southeastern Ukraine. He said Russia repeatedly received assurances that existing agreements would be implemented.

Putin further claimed that recent statements from Western officials showed that the Minsk Agreements were used to give Kyiv time to strengthen its military capabilities before continuing the conflict.

He also criticized countries that joined NATO, alleging that some did so “in the hope of securing their share of the benefits.”

Addressing ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Ukraine and several European countries, Putin said Russia remains open to discussions. However, he stressed that any agreement must take into account Moscow’s “long-term” interests.

”There is only one piece of advice we can offer our adversaries: do not fight Russia. Never attempt to do so,” he warned. “Those (talks) must be genuine negotiations, not ultimatums.”

The comments come as diplomatic efforts to find a resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict continue, more than four years after the war escalated in 2022.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

South Africa’s Minister of Justice, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has expressed concern over the growing impact of xenophobia allegations on the country’s international reputation, warning that the situation is beginning to affect citizens, businesses and entertainers across Africa.

Kubayi said the negative perception of South Africa is creating challenges beyond diplomatic circles. She noted that artists who depend on performances in other African countries are now facing cancelled bookings and financial losses.

“Majority of South African artists who perform in other African countries are seeing their gigs getting cancelled. One artist reached out to me and said all her gigs were cancelled,” she said.

The minister explained that the backlash has affected the country’s image and is creating difficulties for both individuals and businesses operating outside South Africa.

“We are raising the issues that we are raising, the brand is hurting, we can’t lie about it. The backlash, and that’s why part of the work that we are doing as government as well through DECO is engagement with businesses abroad,” she said.

According to Kubayi, the government has stepped up diplomatic efforts to support South African companies facing challenges in other countries. She added that Foreign Affairs Minister Ronald Lamola has been holding discussions with businesses abroad, while consular assistance has also been strengthened.

She noted that the effects have now spread to the entertainment industry, where cancelled performances are depriving artists of expected income. The government, she said, plans to work closely with stakeholders in the arts and culture sector to assess the extent of the problem and consider possible responses.

Despite the criticism directed at the country, Kubayi rejected claims that South Africans should generally be described as xenophobic. She stated that the government remains committed to responsible citizenship and is addressing migration issues through legal and institutional channels.

The minister also said South Africa continues to engage with other African countries, which she claimed understand the challenges posed by undocumented migration and support lawful enforcement measures.

At the same time, she called on communities to refrain from attacks on foreign nationals, warning that such actions undermine national unity and damage South Africa’s standing internationally.

Kubayi stressed that foreigners who reside legally in the country deserve protection. She said the government’s approach seeks to balance immigration enforcement with respect for human rights and regional cooperation.

Recent incidents of violence and unrest involving foreign nationals have renewed concerns about xenophobia in South Africa. Reports indicate that anti-immigrant protests and attacks on foreign-owned businesses in some communities have forced migrants from countries including Nigeria, Mozambique and Malawi to flee affected areas or seek protection.

Human rights organisations have linked the incidents to economic hardship, unemployment and growing hostility toward undocumented migrants.

The issue has also generated debate during the ongoing World Cup period. Discussions surrounding South Africa’s participation have been influenced by reports of attacks on foreign nationals, while some African football supporters have voiced criticism and anger on social media and fan platforms.

The developments have intensified concerns that xenophobia-related tensions could continue to harm South Africa’s image across the continent.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The United Kingdom government has announced plans to prohibit children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms, citing concerns about online safety and the impact of digital content on young people.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled the proposal on Monday. He argued that social media platforms are harming children’s wellbeing and exposing them to inappropriate material.

According to Starmer, the government “will ban access to social media for all children under the age of 16”. He also warned that these platforms are “exposing them to content that is dangerous” and “designed to be addictive”.

The proposed restriction will cover platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X. Messaging services, including WhatsApp, will not be affected.

Starmer said he expects the legislation to be approved by the end of December, with implementation scheduled for the spring of next year.

The British leader also disclosed that the government intends to take “world-leading action on gaming services and live streaming platforms”. Officials are considering additional measures, including overnight restrictions and limits on endless scrolling features for users under 18. More details are expected in July.

The proposal follows a government consultation that allowed British teenagers to test social media restrictions and app time limits. Authorities said the initiative drew about 116,000 responses, making it one of the largest consultations ever conducted by the government.

The plan was influenced by Australia’s decision to ban social media use for people under 16. Australia became the first country to adopt such a policy in December.

Not everyone supports the move. A YouTube spokesperson cautioned that a blanket ban could push children toward “less safe services”.

Starmer also addressed concerns about gaming and live-streaming platforms that allow contact between children and strangers.

“Is there a situation in the offline world where you would just let your child pair up with a stranger? An adult that you don’t know about? No. So we’re taking action on that,” he said.

The UK announcement comes shortly after the government directed major technology firms, including Apple and Google, to introduce safety tools that prevent children from creating, sending or receiving nude images on mobile devices.

Authorities warned that legislation would be introduced if the companies fail to implement the required protections within three months.

The Labour government stated that technology firms have a “moral responsibility” to “protect children from coercion, abuse and sextortion”.

Meanwhile, several countries have introduced or proposed similar measures. Canada recently proposed legislation that would prevent children under 16 from opening social media accounts, while Indonesia began enforcing a comparable restriction in March. A number of European governments have also indicated interest in adopting similar policies.

According to figures cited by the UK government from the Internet Watch Foundation, 91 percent of online child sexual abuse reports recorded in 2024 involved self-generated content created by children.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

United States President Donald Trump has declared that a ceasefire agreement has been reached with Iran, alongside a decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for international shipping, marking a major shift in relations after months of tension.

Trump made the announcement from the White House and later expanded on it in a series of posts on Truth Social, where he confirmed the deal and outlined immediate steps linked to its implementation.

“The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

He further stated:
“Congratulations to all! I hereby fully authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!”

In a separate message, he added:
“This Great Deal will bring Peace and Security to the whole Region”

Trump also suggested that the agreement could reshape regional relations going forward.

“Many presidents have tried to make Peace with Iran, and all have failed before me. The Leaders of the Region have, for the first time, found a President who can help them achieve real Peace. With the opening of the Strait upon the signing of the Deal on Friday, for purposes of mine removal, oil will flow on both ends again for the Region, and the World!”

The announcement came shortly after Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that both parties had reached a comprehensive understanding to end hostilities.

“Following intensive talks, we are pleased to announce that the Peace Deal between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran has been REACHED. Both sides have declared the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon,” Sharif wrote.

He also disclosed that an official signing ceremony is scheduled to take place in Switzerland on Friday, June 19, following a series of preparatory diplomatic meetings.

The agreement, according to mediating parties, followed intensive negotiations involving several regional actors. Qatar welcomed the outcome, describing it as a step toward wider stability.

“The State of Qatar welcomes the agreement reached on the Memorandum of Understanding between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran on addressing the outstanding issues between them, including ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and considers it an important step towards consolidating sustainable peace and promoting economic growth regionally and internationally,” Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.

In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed support for continued technical discussions aimed at ensuring full implementation of the agreement.

“Attention must now turn to fully implementing the memorandum of understanding to ensure the Strait reopens and remains fully and permanently open, and that the detailed elements of the nuclear agreement are finalised,” Starmer said.

He added:
“We are clear that toll-free freedom of navigation must now be restored,”

French President Emmanuel Macron also welcomed the deal, urging swift implementation while confirming France’s readiness to support maritime stability efforts.

“I welcome the agreement reached between the United States and Iran, the result of a diplomatic effort to which several partners contributed. I call for its swift and full implementation by all parties to the conflict,” Macron said.

“This agreement must allow for the urgent and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which the international mission established with the United Kingdom is ready to support. The resources are in place and ready to be deployed,” he added.

“The resumption of maritime traffic, without restrictions or tolls, is essential for regional stability and the global economy.”

France “will also continue to provide its full support to the determined efforts of the Lebanese authorities to restore the sovereignty of the State, which alone can ensure Lebanon’s stability and territorial integrity and meet the needs of its populations”, he added.

US Vice President JD Vance described the agreement as a turning point for the region and expressed optimism about its wider impact.

“What the president has done is create the real space to transform that region. And now, hopefully a new era with the Iranians,” Vance said.

“I think we can safely say, with confidence, that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon… This is just a great thing for the American people.”

The ceasefire announcement comes as international observers watch closely for signs of long-term stability in the region, with attention now turning to the upcoming signing ceremony in Switzerland and the practical implementation of the agreement.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Fresh tensions emerged in Ghana on Thursday after demonstrators under the banner of the “South Africa Must Go” campaign marched to the headquarters of MTN Ghana in Accra, demanding the departure of South African businesses from the country.

The protesters gathered in large numbers and moved to the telecommunications company’s head office amid growing anger over recent xenophobic attacks against African migrants in South Africa.

Videos shared on social media showed demonstrators carrying placards and chanting slogans as they approached the MTN Ghana premises in the Ghanaian capital.

The protest forms part of the wider “South Africa Must Go” campaign, which has gained momentum in recent days. Organisers say the movement is a response to reports of xenophobic attacks and killings targeting African migrants in South Africa.

The development comes weeks after Ghana began evacuating some of its citizens from South Africa following renewed tensions linked to anti-foreigner violence.

On May 27, 2026, the first batch of Ghanaian nationals evacuated from South Africa arrived in Accra. The Ghanaian government assured the returnees that they would receive support and would not be treated as refugees.

While welcoming about 300 evacuees, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, said the government had put measures in place to assist those returning home.

“You are not going to arrive in Ghana as if you are orphans,” Ablakwa said. “You arrive, you are a hero’s welcome. The Chief of Staff himself has called me to say that he would love to join me to receive you.”

He also disclosed that senior government officials would be present to receive the returnees.

“And he will be there leading a high-powered government delegation to receive all of you,” he said.

The minister further stated, “You have seen the arrangements that the President has made. We have met and discussed a five-item package that everybody will be entitled to.”

Although he did not provide details of the package, Ablakwa said the government’s response reflected its commitment to protecting and supporting Ghanaian citizens abroad.

“We want to show the world that we cherish our nationals. Our citizens matter to us,” he said.

He also dismissed suggestions that the evacuees should be regarded as displaced persons.

“You are not refugees. You are not some destitutes. Ghana is not some war zone where we cannot take care of our own. Ghana is a place to be,” he added.

The minister praised Ghana’s reputation as a peaceful and welcoming country, noting that many foreigners continue to choose the country as a destination.

“And that’s why many, many foreigners are trooping to Ghana… they always feel at home,” he said.

He assured the returnees that they would continue to be treated with dignity upon their arrival.

“We will accept you as royals,” Ablakwa said.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Somali referee Omar Artan has been appointed to officiate the 2026 UEFA Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Aston Villa, UEFA announced on Thursday.

The prestigious fixture, scheduled to take place in Salzburg, will see the Champions League winners PSG face Europa League champions Aston Villa in the traditional curtain-raiser to the European club season.

Artan’s appointment marks another milestone in a refereeing career that has earned widespread recognition across Africa and beyond. The Somali official is regarded by many football observers as one of the continent’s finest referees, having handled high-profile matches in both African and international competitions.

His selection for the UEFA Super Cup comes days after he was controversially excluded from the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. Reports indicated that Artan was denied entry into the country, preventing him from participating in the tournament despite being considered among Africa’s top referees.

UEFA’s decision to entrust him with one of Europe’s most prestigious club matches is likely to be seen as a strong endorsement of his abilities and standing in world football.

The UEFA Super Cup annually brings together the winners of the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League, making it one of the most anticipated fixtures on the European football calendar.

By Muhammad Abubakar

A debate over perceived double standards in international football has resurfaced on social media, with critics accusing some Western media organisations and European football associations of hypocrisy in their responses to the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups.

The discussion was sparked by an X post from user Yan Goi (@GongR1ight), who contrasted the strong criticism directed at host nation Qatar before the 2022 World Cup with what he described as a muted response to the 2026 tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The post cited Norway’s calls for a boycott of the Qatar tournament, Denmark’s public criticism of Qatar’s human rights record, and political gestures by Germany’s national team during the 2022 competition. It also pointed to the BBC’s decision to focus on controversies surrounding Qatar rather than broadcasting the full opening ceremony, a move that drew both praise and criticism at the time.

Critics argue that many of the organisations and commentators who were vocal about labour rights, governance, and social issues in Qatar have been comparatively quiet about concerns linked to the 2026 World Cup, including immigration policies, border enforcement, and other political controversies in the host countries.

Others reject the comparison, arguing that the circumstances surrounding the two tournaments differ significantly and that media outlets have continued to report on issues related to the 2026 World Cup, albeit with less intensity than the coverage seen ahead of Qatar 2022.

The debate has renewed broader questions about consistency in sports journalism and international football governance, with supporters and critics divided over whether similar standards are being applied to different World Cup hosts.

By Blessing Omolola

I hope you find this helpful

A recent report that Nigerians are seeking to return from South Africa has once again brought a painful, long-standing issue to the forefront. This is the recurring cycle of xenophobia in South Africa.

The Federal Government’s concerns regarding Nigerians seeking evacuation highlight more than just immediate safety risks; they expose deep-seated, unresolved tensions surrounding migration, unemployment, and economic frustration across the continent.

For those who have read the history books, the relationship between Nigeria and South Africa is historically complex. During the apartheid era, Nigeria was a primary supporter of South Africa’s liberation struggle, providing significant political, economic, and moral aid.

Consequently, many Nigerians view these recurring attacks as a fundamental betrayal of continental unity. Following the end of apartheid, South Africa emerged as one of the continent’s most robust economies, naturally attracting migrants seeking better prospects. However, this movement has frequently met with local resistance.

Xenophobic violence in South Africa is a systemic issue affecting various African nationals through repeated waves of unrest. In 2008, widespread attacks in various townships resulted in over 60 deaths and the displacement of thousands of immigrants.

This was followed by another surge in 2015, when violence erupted in Durban and spread across the country. Foreign-owned shops were looted, and several migrants, including Nigerians, Mozambicans, and Zimbabweans, were killed, leading to diplomatic friction.

Most recently, in 2019, attacks resurfaced in Johannesburg and Pretoria, sparking renewed outrage and firm responses from the Nigerian government. These incidents demonstrate that the violence is driven by economic desperation and social tension rather than isolated hostility toward one specific nationality.

As tensions rise, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has reported that many citizens expressed a desire to return home due to safety fears. However, the Federal Government’s stance that those wishing to return must cover their own transportation costs has sparked significant debate.

Critics argue that citizens in crisis deserve more robust state support, while others point to the logistical and financial strain on the government. This situation emphasises the vulnerability of African migrants during social unrest and the pressing need for stronger diplomatic cooperation to protect citizens living abroad.

But beyond statistics, xenophobia has devastating personal consequences. Consider the story of a young Nigerian entrepreneur in Johannesburg who spent years building a small electronics business to fund her education and support her family.

When violence flared, she was forced to abandon her shop and inventory to save her life. Years of hard work vanished in days. She returned to Nigeria with no capital and significant psychological trauma. This narrative is common among those who face sudden displacement and financial ruin.

The roots of xenophobia in South Africa are firmly planted in socio-economic struggles such as high unemployment, inequality, and poverty. In this environment, immigrants are often scapegoated as competitors for limited jobs and resources. This perspective ignores the reality that many immigrants contribute to the economy by creating small businesses and filling labour gaps.

So, the problem is not the presence of foreigners, but rather unresolved structural economic failures. Violence and collective punishment do not solve unemployment or poverty; instead, they damage diplomatic ties and tarnish Africa’s global image.

Africa is at its strongest when its nations cooperate. The repeated cycles of xenophobic violence undermine the spirit of the “United Africa” that leaders have long championed. The true cost of xenophobia is paid by displaced migrants, South Africa’s international reputation, and the concept of continental unity.

Long-term solutions require emergency evacuations, structural economic reform, better policy action, and public education to foster tolerance. Only by addressing these core issues can Africa achieve true peaceful coexistence.

Oladapo Blessing Omolola a student at Yakubu Gowon University in the Department of Strategic Communication. I can be reached at: blessingomolola0565@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran on Sunday night fired missiles toward Israel in a move that has heightened tensions in the Middle East and raised concerns about the future of ongoing diplomatic efforts in the region.

According to the Israeli military, about 10 ballistic missiles were launched toward northern Israel. Authorities said the missiles were either intercepted by air defence systems or landed in open areas. There were no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage.

The attack marked Iran’s first direct strike against Israel since a ceasefire between Iran, Israel and the United States took effect in early April.

Iran said the missile launch was a response to Israeli air strikes on Beirut earlier in the day. Tehran accused Israel of violating the ceasefire in Lebanon and warned of further action if such attacks continue.

In a statement reported by Iran’s Tasnim news agency, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) described the operation as a warning.

“Tonight’s operation was a warning declaration, and in the event of repeated aggressions, the responses will be more extensive and will encompass all American-Zionist targets in the region,” the IRGC said.

Iran’s military leadership also cautioned Israel against further military action in Lebanon, warning that the country could face “more devastating and regretful blows”.

Israel responded by promising a strong reaction to the missile barrage. Military spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin said Iran was attempting to create a new security equation through direct attacks on Israeli territory.

“The (Iranian) regime is attempting to establish a new equation through direct attacks on Israeli territory in response to IDF operations in Dahiyeh,” Defrin said.

“We struck in Dahiyeh in response to Hezbollah’s relentless attacks on the communities of northern Israel. The IDF will continue to operate throughout Lebanon and will intensify its actions against the Hezbollah terrorist organisation.”

He added: “The Iranian terrorist regime has made a grave mistake by once again choosing the path of terror.”

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump urged restraint and called on both sides to avoid further escalation.

Speaking to Israel’s Channel 12, Trump said: “The Iranian strikes didn’t hurt anybody. Hopefully Israel is not going to retaliate. If Bibi [Netanyahu] strikes them back, it’s just gonna keep going like the last 47 years, or the last 3000 years.”

He also expressed optimism about ongoing diplomatic contacts with Tehran.

“We are very close to a final deal with Iran. It is going to be a good deal. I don’t want it to blow up because of what is happening now,” Trump said.

“I am going to call Bibi right now and tell him not to retaliate,” Mr Trump added. “Each of them had their fun. Israel had its strike and Iran had its strike. We don’t need another one.”

“I don’t want to see an additional attack tonight,” he added.

Trump also criticized Israel’s earlier strikes on Beirut, telling Fox News that Washington had not been informed in advance.

“I’m not happy about it,” he said.

Regarding Iran’s response, Trump stated: “It’s certainly not going to help negotiations.”

Elsewhere, Iraq temporarily closed its airspace and suspended air navigation following the missile launches, citing safety concerns. Iraqi aviation authorities said the restriction would remain in place for 72 hours.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also held discussions with officials from Britain, Turkey and Pakistani mediators on Sunday evening. According to Iran’s foreign ministry, the talks focused on the latest regional developments and Israel’s “repeated violations of the ceasefire in Lebanon”.

In Israel, Clalit, the country’s largest healthcare network, began relocating operations at its hospitals to underground facilities as a precaution following the attack.

Pro-government supporters in Tehran later gathered in the streets to celebrate the missile strike, waving Iranian and Hezbollah flags.

The latest exchange has increased fears of a broader regional conflict despite ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing a new escalation.