International

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Global oil prices surged past the $100-per-barrel mark on Thursday after reported attacks on oil tankers in the Red Sea heightened concerns over disruptions to international energy supplies.

Brent crude, the global benchmark, gained 6.9 percent to trade at $100.60 per barrel. United States West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude also rose by 5.63 percent to $91.72 per barrel.

Reuters reported that the rally followed attacks by Yemen’s Houthi movement on two Saudi oil tankers. The incidents have raised fears over the security of oil shipments through the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, two of the world’s most strategic maritime routes.

The Houthi group confirmed that it carried out the operation against the two Saudi vessels. A Saudi news agency also reported that one of the tankers caught fire after it came under attack while sailing in the Red Sea.

The latest escalation came after the Iran-backed Houthis announced on Tuesday that they would target vessels transporting Saudi oil through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The group also declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia.

Meanwhile, the United States military said on Wednesday that it conducted its 11th straight night of strikes on Iran.

The increase in crude oil prices could boost earnings for oil-producing countries such as Nigeria. However, it may also push up the cost of petroleum products and slow recent progress in easing inflation.

Reflecting the changing market conditions, Dangote Petroleum Refinery on Thursday raised its ex-gantry price of petrol from ₦1,075 to ₦1,215 per litre.

The refinery also resumed the sale of petrol in naira.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Global oil prices climbed sharply on Wednesday, with Brent crude rising above $95 per barrel for the first time in six weeks amid growing concerns over instability in the Middle East.

Market data showed that Brent crude gained 3.41 percent to close at $95.11 per barrel, its highest level since June 11. United States West Texas Intermediate (WTI) also recorded an increase of 3.11 percent, reaching $86.96 per barrel.

Analysts linked the rise in prices to fears of possible disruptions to major oil supply routes following the intensifying conflict between the United States and Iran. Concerns have also grown over threats to maritime activities by the Iran-backed Houthi group in Yemen.

On Wednesday, the US military announced that it had carried out attacks on Iran for an 11th consecutive night. The development came shortly after the Kuwaiti military reported that its air defence systems intercepted Iranian drones.

US President Donald Trump also warned Tehran against actions in the Strait of Hormuz, saying the United States would “bomb and destroy one bridge or power plant” whenever Iran targets ships passing through the strategic waterway.

The tension widened further on Tuesday after the Houthis threatened to attack vessels transporting Saudi oil through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia.

The increase in Brent crude prices could have implications for Nigeria, which relies heavily on imported petroleum products. Higher international oil prices may lead to an increase in local petrol prices if import costs continue to rise.

Reports had earlier indicated that oil marketers were considering an upward review of ex-depot petrol prices due to the rising cost of imported fuel cargoes.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has said the war involving the US, Israel and Iran has so far cost $37.5 billion, according to the latest official estimate released by the Pentagon.

Hegseth disclosed the figure on Tuesday during a hearing before the Senate Appropriations Committee. He appeared alongside Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, to defend a proposed $1.5 trillion US defence budget. The request includes nearly $70 billion for military operations linked to the conflict with Iran.

“The estimate we have as of today is $37.5bn,” Hegseth said in response to a question from Democratic Senator Dick Durbin.

He explained that the estimate covers some operational and maintenance expenses through the end of September. However, he did not provide a detailed breakdown of the spending.

The latest estimate is about $8 billion higher than the $29 billion figure the administration of President Donald Trump announced in May.

Other estimates place the economic impact much higher. Moody’s Analytics, for example, has estimated that the war could cost the US economy as much as $150 billion after accounting for higher domestic energy prices and other indirect effects.

The hearing took place as hostilities between the US and Iran continued after a memorandum of understanding that had paused attacks since June 17 collapsed last week.

On Monday, Trump said Iran would “pay” after two US soldiers were killed over the weekend. In recent days, he has also threatened further military action, including strikes on Iranian energy facilities, bridges and a deeply buried nuclear-linked site known as Pickaxe Mountain.

The Pentagon said the conflict has also increased pressure on US weapons supplies.

Hegseth told lawmakers that additional funding would help “to expand production lines and accelerate delivery of high-demand munitions. We’re talking about solid rocket motors, JDAMs [Joint Direct Attack Munition], hypersonics, and counter-drone capabilities”.

He also warned that military readiness could suffer if Congress failed to approve the requested funding.

“Training in the future would have to be curtailed if we do not get our budget needs met and met urgently, and yes, some of that has to do with the current budget cycle and how things come together,” he said.

Democratic Senator Patty Murray criticised the broad spending proposal, which also includes funding for National Guard deployments in Washington, DC, military operations against suspected drug smugglers in the Caribbean and border security missions.

“So I’ll be blunt,” she said. “The truth is, your request does not make a lot of sense.”

By Agabi Charis 

Spain were crowned 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after edging Argentina 1-0 after extra time in a captivating final at New York New Jersey Stadium. Ferran Torres’ decisive strike in the 106th minute settled a tactical battle that showcased Spain’s discipline, defensive resilience and control, handing La Roja their second World Cup title. 

From the opening whistle, Spain looked the more complete side. They dominated possession, limited Argentina’s attacking opportunities and remained composed under pressure. While Lionel Messi and his teammates fought until the very end, Spain’s organisation and patience ultimately proved too much. Simply put, the better team on the night emerged victorious. 

Despite the heartbreak, Lionel Messi’s final World Cup campaign deserves enormous praise. The Argentine captain delivered one of the finest tournaments of his illustrious career, finishing with eight goals and four assists, inspiring Argentina to another World Cup final and reminding the football world why he remains one of the greatest players ever to grace the game. Though the trophy slipped away, his performances will be remembered for years to come. 

Spain’s triumph was reflected in the post-tournament awards. Midfield maestro Rodri was deservedly named the Player of the Tournament (Golden Ball) after orchestrating Spain’s midfield throughout the competition with intelligence, composure and leadership. At the other end of the age spectrum, teenage defender Pau Cubarsí claimed the Young Player of the Tournament award following a sensational campaign that saw Spain concede just one goal throughout the tournament. 

The final was also a celebration of football’s global appeal, with cameras frequently cutting to a host of celebrities in attendance. Among those spotted were Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Tom Cruise, Matt Damon and Luciana Damon, Tom Brady, Timothée Chalamet, Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union, James Harden, Draymond Green, Rob Gronkowski, Odell Beckham Jr., Lindsey Vonn, Kevin Hart, Julia Garner, Winnie Harlow and tennis star Carlos Alcaraz, while the historic halftime show featured performances from Shakira, Madonna, Justin Bieber, BTS, Burna Boy and Jennifer Hudson. 

The 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered unforgettable moments from start to finish. Spain leave North America as worthy champions, Rodri leaves as the tournament’s outstanding player, Cubarsí announces himself as football’s brightest young defensive talent, and Lionel Messi bows out of World Cup football having once again produced a campaign worthy of his legendary status.

Agabi Chubiyojo Charis is a 300-Level student in Information and Media Studies at Yakubu Gowon University and is currently interning at IMPR. He can be reached via chubicharis@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The United Nations (UN) has raised concerns over the growing sophistication of terrorist groups operating in northern Nigeria, West Africa and the Sahel. The organisation said the groups now rely on drones, advanced communication technology and cryptocurrencies to strengthen their activities.

The warning came during a briefing to the UN Security Council by Leonardo Simão, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel, who also heads the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS).

Simão presented the Secretary-General’s latest report on developments in the region. The report covered the period from November 29, 2025, to June 30, 2026. The briefing took place as the Security Council reviewed the political, security and humanitarian situation across West Africa and the Sahel. It also followed the council’s decision to extend the mandate of UNOWAS until January 31, 2029.

According to Simão, terrorist groups have continued to improve their methods, which has made them more difficult to defeat.

“Armed groups are increasingly using drones, sophisticated communications and cryptocurrencies while coordinating operations across borders,” he said.


He noted that the activities of the groups are now closely linked with transnational organised crime. He said their objective is to gain territorial and economic control while undermining public confidence in state institutions.

“The problem is acute, especially in the central Sahel and northern Nigeria,” he said.


“Their actions intersect with transnational organised crime, and are aimed at consolidating territorial and economic control, erosion of public confidence in state authority, with serious damage to social cohesion.”


Simão also stated that Nigeria, Niger and Burkina Faso continue to suffer terrorist attacks, kidnappings and heavy civilian casualties.

He disclosed that about 6.8 million people have been displaced across the region, while another 1.28 million people are now refugees or asylum seekers. He added that women, children and young people remain the most affected because insecurity and inadequate funding have restricted humanitarian operations.

Despite the security challenges, Simão acknowledged some positive developments. He cited the reopening of the Kamba border crossing between Nigeria and Niger. He also referred to progress by the Cameroon-Nigeria Mixed Commission in implementing the 2002 International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling on the two countries’ land and maritime boundary.

“These are some examples of regional efforts towards dialogue,” he said.


The UN official stressed that military action alone would not end terrorism. He urged governments across the region to address poverty and other socio-economic conditions that fuel violent extremism.

“Fighting poverty and vulnerability must therefore remain a common objective in the broader fight against terrorism. Regional actors are working hard to find solutions,” he said.


Simão also revealed that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has renewed efforts to operationalise its standby force, although funding constraints remain a major obstacle.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Andy Burnham has been elected leader of the United Kingdom’s governing Labour Party. His victory clears the way for him to become the country’s next prime minister.

The result was announced on Friday by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, who confirmed that Burnham would succeed Keir Starmer as Labour leader and assume office as prime minister on Monday.

In his first speech after the announcement, Burnham declared his readiness to lead the country.

“I am ready,” he said.

The incoming prime minister said Britain required a new political direction. He argued that leaders of his generation had failed to address a political culture and economic system that no longer served ordinary citizens.

Burnham said his administration would focus on building “a new politics” that would bring meaningful change.

“People are looking for us to deliver and we will,” he said.

He also praised his predecessor, Keir Starmer, for rebuilding the Labour Party after one of its worst electoral defeats and leading it back into government.

Burnham said Starmer had positioned Labour to improve the lives of people across Britain. He also thanked the outgoing leader for his dedication to both the country and the party.

Starmer resigned as prime minister and Labour leader on June 22 after months of increasing political pressure.

When he announced his resignation, Starmer said he had “heard the answer” from his party on whether he was the right person to lead Labour into the next general election. He added that he accepted the decision “with good grace”.

Burnham is expected to be sworn in on Monday. His inauguration will make him Britain’s seventh prime minister in the past decade, a period marked by frequent changes in the country’s political leadership.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The World Bank has stated that about 79% of Nigerians are either living in poverty or remain at risk of falling into poverty despite the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration over the past three years.

The assessment appears in the World Bank’s newly approved Country Partnership Framework for Nigeria (2026–2032) and the accompanying Streamlined Country Diagnostic, which examined the country’s economic performance and development challenges.

According to the report, 61% of Nigerians currently live below the poverty line, while 33% are classified as ultra-poor and unable to meet their minimum food needs.

The World Bank acknowledged that the Federal Government’s reforms have improved several macroeconomic indicators. It said economic growth rose from 3.5% in the first half of 2024 to 3.9% during the same period in 2025. It also noted that foreign reserves have exceeded $42 billion, fiscal deficits have declined, and investor confidence has improved.

Despite those gains, the institution said the benefits have not yet translated into better living conditions for many Nigerians because major structural challenges remain.

The report stated: “Thirty-three per cent of its population is ultra-poor (food insecure by age-weighted caloric intake), 61 per cent is below the poverty line, and 79 per cent is near poor (below the poverty line or vulnerable to falling back into poverty).

“Despite recent bold reforms stabilising the economy and laying the groundwork for the Renewed Hope Agenda, significant structural challenges remain,” it said.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

South African international and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25, weeks after representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Adams was reportedly found dead on Saturday morning at a residential building in Schotschekloof, a suburb of central Cape Town. Authorities and members of his family have not disclosed the cause of his death.

His death came shortly after another tragedy in his family. His 72-year-old grandmother, Marianna Adams, died on June 17, one day before South Africa’s decisive group-stage match against the Czech Republic.

Despite the loss, Adams remained with the national team. He started the match and continued his World Cup campaign.

Brendine Johnson, the late footballer’s mentor and family representative, confirmed the news and spoke about the shock surrounding his death.

“This passing has ripped everybody apart, returning from the World Cup just now, and then getting such news. Nobody expected this,” Johnson said.

He added, “I had a close conversation with him on Thursday, the guy was really positive on returning back, and being able to return after the World Cup… knowing what lies ahead, he was prepared.”

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) also confirmed Adams’ death in a post on X.

South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, described the footballer’s death as a huge loss to the country.

“It is with profound shock and a heavy heart that I have learnt of the passing of Jayden Adams, midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana, at the age of 25,” McKenzie said.

The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) also paid tribute to the midfielder.

“Jayden had only recently represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, carrying the hopes of the nation with pride, courage, and distinction,” the union stated.

It added, “His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and country at large.”

Adams played a key role in South Africa’s historic World Cup campaign. The Bafana Bafana side reached the knockout stage for the first time in the tournament’s history. He featured in all three group-stage matches. He started against Mexico and the Czech Republic before coming off the bench in the team’s 1–0 victory over South Korea.

At club level, Adams enjoyed a successful 2025/26 season with Mamelodi Sundowns. He helped the club win the CAF Champions League title after joining from Stellenbosch FC.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Senegal captain Sadio Mane has announced his retirement from international football following his country’s dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 34-year-old ends a remarkable 14-year international career with 132 appearances and 55 goals for the Lions of Teranga. Widely regarded as one of Senegal’s greatest footballers, Mane played a key role in transforming the national team into one of Africa’s strongest sides.

His greatest achievement came when he inspired Senegal to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title, cementing his place in the country’s football history. Throughout his international career, Mane was known for his leadership, consistency, and match-winning performances.

His retirement marks the end of an era for Senegal, with fans paying tribute to a player whose contributions helped elevate the nation’s status on the world stage.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The death toll from the powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24 has increased to 3,889, according to updated figures released by the country’s authorities on Thursday.

Government officials said the twin earthquakes, which measured magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, also left nearly 17,000 people injured. The disaster displaced close to 18,000 residents after their homes were destroyed.

The latest report, which National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez shared on Telegram, showed that the number of confirmed deaths had risen from 3,811 to 3,889.

As relief efforts continue, interim leader Delcy Rodriguez has appealed for the release of Venezuelan assets frozen abroad to help fund humanitarian assistance and reconstruction projects.

The United Nations is seeking about $300 million to support recovery efforts in the country. The Venezuelan government is also in talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) over access to its financial assets, according to IMF spokesperson Julie Kozack.

La Guaira, a coastal state that suffered some of the worst destruction, recorded extensive damage. Officials said more than 800 buildings sustained damage, while 190 structures collapsed completely.

Although emergency agencies have reduced search-and-rescue operations two weeks after the disaster, many families are still searching for missing loved ones.

One of them is Ciro Ocando, who believes he has identified the spot where his two teenage sons remain buried beneath the rubble in Playa Grande, La Guaira. Ocando said he no longer expects to find them alive and now hopes only to recover the bodies of his 13-year-old and 18-year-old sons.