A dramatic escalation in military hostilities between India and Pakistan on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, forced an abrupt eight-hour suspension of flight operations across Pakistan’s major airports, severely affecting Hajj travel plans and leaving thousands of intending pilgrims stranded during a crucial departure window. The suspension, which began around 2:00 AM local time following cross-border
The Federal Government of Nigeria has extended warm congratulations to the Federal Republic of Germany following the election of Friedrich Merz as the new Chancellor. Merz, the leader of Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU), emerged victorious on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, after securing 325 votes in the 630-seat Bundestag, marking a significant political shift in
Tensions in South Asia took a deadly turn on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, as Indian missile and aerial strikes hit multiple areas in Pakistan’s Punjab province and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, leaving at least 26 civilians dead and 46 others seriously wounded in what Pakistani authorities have described as the worst escalation between the two nuclear neighbours
In a major boost to pilgrim welfare ahead of the 2025 Hajj season (1446 AH), Saudi authorities have undertaken extensive upgrades around the historic Namirah Mosque near Mount Arafat, including the installation of over 300 shade-providing umbrellas and the planting of more than 2,000 trees. These efforts are targeted at easing the intense heat experienced
The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has taken a significant step in health compliance ahead of the 2025 Hajj by receiving his vaccination at the Hajj House, Abuja. The move is part of preparations to ensure that all Nigerian pilgrims meet Saudi Arabia’s strict health regulations for
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia Preparations are in top gear in the Saudi capital as Riyadh gets set to host the high-profile Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum on May 13, 2025, coinciding with the visit of former U.S. President Donald J. Trump. The event is positioned to deepen economic and strategic relations between the two nations, focusing on expansive
In a move aimed at advancing public sector efficiency and strengthening bilateral relations, Nigeria and The Gambia have commenced collaborative efforts to build institutional partnerships that will enhance public service delivery in both nations. The renewed cooperation was formalized during a high-level visit by senior Gambian officials to the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR)
A dramatic spike in hostilities has unfolded between India and Pakistan, as both nuclear-armed neighbours exchanged heavy cross-border fire on Wednesday, resulting in the deadliest confrontation between the two countries in over 20 years. The violence followed deadly missile strikes by New Delhi, which targeted areas in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, escalating long-standing tensions rooted in the
In a moment of pride for Nigerians at home and abroad, Achunike Okafor, an 18-year-old prodigy, has been named Nigerian of the Week following a historic academic achievement that has garnered international recognition. A student of Science Park High School in Newark, New Jersey, Achunike stunned the academic world by graduating with a phenomenal 4.625
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reaffirmed the critical role of midwives in combating the high rates of maternal and newborn deaths across Africa, highlighting them as essential pillars of healthcare delivery, especially in times of crisis. This was made known by the Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, in a powerful
