Saturday, April 18, 2026

Hurricane Melissa Leaves Massive Trail of Destruction Across the Caribbean

By
Kazeem Busari
-

Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica on Tuesday as a devastating Category 5 storm with sustained winds of up to 185 mph (298 km/h), making it the strongest hurricane to ever directly strike the island.

The storm carved a destructive path through Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti and the Bahamas, leaving tens of thousands homeless, major infrastructure damaged, and a rapidly rising death toll. In Haiti alone, at least 30 people perished and more than 20 were reported missing after torrential rainfall caused a river to burst its banks downstream of Petit-Goâve.

Jamaican authorities declared the entire island a disaster zone after the storm surge — estimated up to 13 feet (4 m) on the southern coast — smashed into low-lying communities and damaged hospitals, schools and power networks. Up to 77% of electricity customers were knocked out.

In eastern Cuba, more than 735,000 people were evacuated ahead of Melissa’s arrival as a Category 3 hurricane. While no deaths have been confirmed there so far, widespread crop damage, communication blackouts and housing destruction have complicated relief efforts.

Estimates suggest that damage from Melissa could reach between US $48 billion and US $52 billion, marking it among the most expensive Atlantic storms on record.

Climate scientists and regional leaders say that the storm’s record-breaking intensity and slow movement highlight how warming oceans and stalled weather systems are compounding hurricane risks across the Caribbean. “Melissa is likely to be viewed as the ‘storm of the century’ for Jamaica,” one expert told The Guardian.

Aid efforts have begun, but logistical challenges remain acute. Roads are blocked, shelters overcrowded, and many rural communities remain cut off by floods and fallen trees. Jamaica’s military has been mobilised to assist with evacuation and road clearance.

As Melissa moves north-east toward Bermuda and the open Atlantic, emergency services are warning that the danger is far from over. Heavy rains, storm surges and lingering wind damage continue to pose threats to vulnerable coastal and island communities.

The scale of devastation now facing the hardest hit countries — especially Jamaica and Haiti — suggests recovery will take months if not years, and the event is already sharpening calls for greater investment in disaster preparedness and climate resilience across the region.

World Athletics Reveals Awards Finalists

By
Kazeem Busari
-
Kenya's Faith Kipyegon

The global governing body for athletics, World Athletics, has unveiled the list of finalists for the prestigious 2024 “Track Athlete of the Year” awards, recognising outstanding performances on the track across the seasonal calendar. The nominations include some of the sport’s most dominant figures, reflecting a year of exceptional results and intense competition. (Source: Inside the Games)

Among the women’s nominees is Kenyan middle-distance star Faith Kipyegon — the 1500 m world champion and 5000 m silver medallist — whose season included world-leading times and a strong title-defence. The other nominated women illustrate the depth of talent in global athletics this year.

On the men’s side, the nomination list features athletes who pushed boundaries and broke new ground, with world champions, record-setters, and consistent major-meet winners all in contention. Their inclusion underscores a year in which the margins of victory were often razor-thin and the standard of competition extreme.

The finalists were selected from a shortlist derived from performances at major competitions including the World Championships, Diamond League meets, and national or continental championships. World Athletics said it evaluated criteria such as “championship medals, consistency of performances and progression through the season.”

Though the winner selection is still pending, athletics commentators are already debating how the voting might play out. Some analysts argue that Kipyegon’s dominance gives her a strong edge in the women’s category, while in the men’s class the field is so competitive that the result could hinge on subjective evaluations of influence and legacy rather than times alone.

The winners will be announced at the annual World Athletics Awards ceremony, scheduled for December 2024 in Monaco, where other categories such as “Field Athlete of the Year” and “Coach of the Year” will also be honoured. The event caps the global athletics calendar and serves as a key moment of recognition for athletes and officials alike.

Uganda Coach Declares Readiness for Nigeria Challenge

By
Kazeem Busari
-
Uganda Coach Paul Put. Credit: CAFonline.com

Uganda’s head coach Paul Put has issued a rallying cry ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, insisting that his side are fully prepared to take on Group C rivals Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania. In an interview with CAF’s official media platform, Put reinforced the Cranes’ ambition and belief as the tournament approaches.

“They (Super Eagles) are a perennial powerhouse. There are threats everywhere from their squad with top talent and European experience,” Put said, acknowledging the stature of Nigeria’s team. Nonetheless, he added firmly, “We will respect all of them, but we are not intimidated. We will give a good account of ourselves.”

Put also weighed in on Uganda’s other group opponents. Of Tunisia, he praised their organization and tactical acumen, while he portrayed Tanzania as energetic and familiar — adding that regional rivalries often bring unpredictability.

The Cranes are drawn into Group C, where they will face Nigeria and its many high-profile stars such as Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, as well as consistent contenders Tunisia and spirited Tanzania. Analysts believe Nigeria is the group favourite, but Uganda’s coach is pushing for disruption rather than acquiescence.

Uganda will open their campaign against Tunisia on December 23 before subsequent clashes with Nigeria and Tanzania. The team, making their eighth AFCON appearance, hope to advance beyond the group stage — something they have struggled to do in recent editions.

Put’s comments have already stirred reaction in Nigeria, where media and fans have noted the challenge ahead. Some observers see his remarks as psychological tactics to unsettle the Eagles, while others view them as an honest expression of Uganda’s resolve.

As preparations intensify, Uganda’s camp is now under pressure to turn words into performance. If the Cranes can combine tactical discipline, mental strength, and opportunism, they may yet force surprises in what is shaping up to be one of AFCON’s more competitive groups.

Hoopers Sign German Star Müller for NBPL Playoffs

By
Kazeem Busari
-
Malik Muller

Defending champions Rivers Hoopers have strengthened their roster ahead of the 2025 Nigeria Basketball Premier League (NBPL) Playoffs with the signing of German shooting guard Malik Müller, a move seen as a major boost to their campaign for a historic third consecutive title.

Standing at 6’4”, Müller brings extensive international experience to the KingsMen, having played professionally since 2019 across Europe, Africa, and South America. The 30-year-old guard previously featured in the highly competitive German Basketball Bundesliga, where he suited up for top clubs including Brose Bamberg and Hamburg Towers.

Rivers Hoopers’ management described Müller’s arrival as a “statement of intent” as the team prepares to defend its crown in what is expected to be a fiercely contested playoff series. His versatility, outside shooting, and defensive acumen are expected to add depth and leadership to a team already known for its balanced offense and aggressive pace.

“Müller is a proven competitor with tremendous leadership qualities,” said a Hoopers official familiar with the deal. “His ability to inspire teammates and perform under pressure will be vital as we chase our third straight championship.”

Müller joins an already star-studded lineup featuring Kelvin Amayo, Isaiah Williams, and Peter Olisemeka, giving head coach Ogoh Odaudu a wealth of options in both backcourt and frontcourt play.

Müller’s international pedigree is expected to give the KingsMen an edge over rivals such as Kwara Falcons and Gombe Bulls, who are also fielding reinforced squads for the postseason. His signing signals Hoopers’ determination to dominate domestic basketball and make another strong showing in continental competitions.

COAS Redeploys Senior Officers in Sweeping Reshuffle

By
Kazeem Busari
-
Nigeria Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu

Abuja — The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has approved a major reshuffle in the Nigerian Army, redeploying several senior officers to strategic command, staff, and instructional positions in a move aimed at strengthening leadership and improving operational efficiency across the force.

According to an official statement from Army Headquarters, the shake-up is designed to “reinvigorate leadership, strengthen command structures, and reposition the Nigerian Army for heightened operational effectiveness.”

Among the most prominent appointments, Major General Bamidele Alabi has been redeployed to the Army Headquarters Department of Policy and Plans as the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army). Similarly, Major General Jamal Abdulsalam, who previously served as Chief of Special Services and Programmes, now proceeds to the Defence Headquarters Department of Operations as Chief of Defence Operations.

Also affected in the reorganization, Major General Peter Mala moves from the Office of the National Security Adviser to assume duty as Commander, Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), while Major General Samson Jiya has been appointed Chief of Defence Accounts and Budget at the Defence Headquarters, following his redeployment from the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre (NAHFC).

In other key appointments, Major General Mayirenso Saraso becomes Chief of Operations (Army), Major General Isa Abdullahi takes over as Chief of Administration (Army), and Major General Musa Etsu-Ndagi assumes the position of Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (Army).

The restructuring also saw Major General Abubakar Haruna named Commander, Nigerian Army Training Centre (NATRAC), Kontagora, and Major General Philip Ilodibia appointed Chief of Defence Space Administration at the Defence Space Administration.

At the corps level, Major General Godwin Mutkut moves from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in N’Djamena to become Corps Commander, Infantry, while Major General Umar Abubakar takes charge of the Armour Corps. Major General John Adeyemo is now Corps Commander, Artillery, and Major General Mohammed Abdullahi becomes Corps Commander, Signals.

Other appointments include Major General Taofik Sidick as Chief of Accounts and Budget (Army), Major General Abdullahi Ibrahim as Corps Commander, Ordnance, Major General Adeyinka Adereti as Corps Commander, Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, and Major General Nansak Shagaya as Corps Commander, Supply and Transport. Brigadier General Yusha’u Ahmed has also been named Acting Corps Commander, Education.

In the training institutions, Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, formerly with 82 Division/Joint Task Force South East (Operation UDO KA), has been appointed Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna. Major General Emmanuel Mustapha becomes Commandant, Nigerian Army Signal School, while Major General Adamu Hassan takes over as Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Artillery. In addition, Brigadier General John Bulus has been appointed Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Finance and Accounts.

The new postings, which take immediate effect, reflect the COAS’s commitment to continuous restructuring for improved professionalism and readiness in tackling emerging security challenges across the country.

Army Headquarters said the reshuffle underscores General Shaibu’s drive to ensure a disciplined, motivated, and combat-ready force capable of addressing Nigeria’s evolving defence and security needs.

Tinubu Reverses Pardon for Maryam Sanda; Convict to Serve Six Years

By
Kazeem Busari
-
Maryam Sanda and late husband

In a dramatic reversal of his earlier clemency move, President Bola Tinubu has revoked the pardon granted to Maryam Sanda and ordered that she serve six years imprisonment instead. The decision effectively annuls the pardon that had sparked widespread controversy.

Maryam Sanda was originally convicted in 2020 for culpable homicide after fatally stabbing her husband, Bilyaminu Bello. She had been on death row, having spent over six years in custody, before President Tinubu’s earlier pardon granted her clemency along with 174 other convicts.

The pardon triggered strong backlash from many quarters. Critics argued that including a capital offender among the beneficiaries diluted the rule of law and disrespected victims’ families.

Under the new directive, Sanda’s pardon has been revoked and her sentence reinstated for six years behind bars. The move appears to be a response to public pressure and moral outcry, as well as a correction to the earlier clemency exercise.

Tinubu directed a comprehensive review of the earlier recommendations under Section 175(1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). As a result, several individuals convicted of serious crimes — including kidnapping, drug trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, and unlawful arms possession — were removed from the list.

Others who had been granted full pardons in the previous list saw their sentences commuted instead, reflecting what the presidency described as a “balanced approach to justice.”

“The action became necessary in view of the seriousness and security implications of some of the offences, the need to be sensitive to the feelings of the victims of the crimes and society in general, and the need to boost the morale of law enforcement agencies,” the statement read.

It added that Tinubu’s decision was guided by “the concept of justice as a three-way traffic for the accused, the victim, and the state or society.”

The approved list of eligible beneficiaries has since been transmitted to the Nigerian Correctional Service for implementation.

Ajibade Focuses on World Cup Ambitions as Super Falcons Seal WAFCON Spot

By
Kazeem Busari
-
Rasheedat Ajibade

In an exclusive interview with FIFA ahead of the 2027 Women’s World Cup campaign, Nigerian forward Rasheedat Ajibade spoke passionately about her dreams for the Super Falcons and the broader growth of women’s football in Africa. The interview comes just as the Falcons have secured qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Ajibade, who has established herself as a key figure in Nigeria’s attack, told FIFA her ambition is not only to shine individually but to help propel the team to new heights on the global stage. “We know our capabilities,” she said. “Our collective strength lies in belief, hard work and unity.”

Her words carry considerable weight now that the Super Falcons have confirmed their place in WAFCON 2026 following a 1-1 draw against Benin at home. The result gave Nigeria a 3-1 aggregate win after a 2-0 victory in the first leg in Lomé.

In her interview, Ajibade reflected on her journey — from youth tournaments to senior level — and emphasized the responsibility she feels as a leader for younger players. “I always say: don’t just play for yourself, play for those who look up to you back home,” she told FIFA. She also spoke about her time overseas, noting how exposure to different leagues has expanded her skills and footballing intelligence.

When asked about the upcoming qualifiers and continental challenges, Ajibade acknowledged that the path to WAFCON and beyond is never straightforward. She stressed that the Falcons must balance ambition with consistency: “Winning the qualifier is just part of the story — how we perform in the tournament will define us.”

Her reflections came at a moment of optimism for Nigeria’s women’s football. The Falcons’ unbeaten path through WAFCON qualifying reinforces the team’s status as a continental powerhouse and signals rising confidence ahead of World Cup challenges. Nigeria remains the only African nation to have appeared at every Women’s World Cup, and Ajibade is clear-eyed about carrying that legacy forward.

As the Super Falcons shift gears from qualifying to preparation, Ajibade says the squad is already working on cohesion, tactical depth and mental resilience — areas she believes will determine success at major tournaments. “We want to be respected, feared,” she remarked. “And to do that, we must bring our best to every game — whether here in Africa or on the global stage.”

With both the WAFCON berth secured and the countdown to Brazil 2027 advancing, Ajibade’s ambition and the Falcons’ momentum present a compelling narrative for Nigeria’s quest to reclaim continental glory and make an impact on the world stage.

Nigeria turns towards prosperity

By
Kazeem Busari
-
Wale Edun

By Wale Edun

In this role, I often feel a mix of emotions: deep pride in our national journey, regret over the opportunities we failed to seize, and confidence in our direction of travel today. Despite some historical shortfalls and present-day challenges, I believe the most difficult phase of our economic journey is behind us. Nigeria has turned a decisive corner. The road ahead will demand hard work and discipline, but we are firmly on the right path.

When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took office in 2023, Nigeria’s economy was on the brink of fiscal collapse. Slowing growth, surging inflation, and market distortions like the fuel subsidy and multiple exchange rate regimes had created an environment that scared off investment. The President’s mandate was clear – dismantle those market distortions, reward productivity, and create a climate where private investment can thrive.

From Crisis to Stability

Two years later, the results are evident at the macro level. GDP grew by 4.23 percent in the second quarter of 2025. Inflation, while still high, has moderated to 18.02 percent after six consecutive months of decline. The exchange rate has stabilised, and the gap between official and parallel markets has narrowed to about 1 percent, down from a peak of nearly 70 percent. Importantly, foreign reserves have risen above $43 billion, the highest since 2019. These are more than just numbers; they are the foundation for building inclusive growth that benefits every Nigerian.

Notwithstanding, we recognise that the economy is ultimately about people, not statistics. Millions of Nigerians measure progress by the cost of food, transport, and other necessities. I am keenly aware of this reality. Food inflation has been our heaviest burden since it surged after currency depreciation and the removal of fuel subsidies. However, targeted measures are beginning to ease the pressure. A bag of rice that cost about ₦120,000 last year now averages around ₦ 80,000. The prices of garri, pepper, tomatoes, and other essentials have also decreased.

At the same time, we are careful to ensure our smallholder farmers have enough incentives to return to farms next planting season. We are therefore implementing programmes that stimulate agricultural production by safeguarding smallholder farmers’ incomes.

In addition, 8.1 million households nationwide have received direct cash support from the government to help meet basic needs. This is more than a safety net; it ensures that the impact of these necessary reforms is cushioned for the most vulnerable among us, even as we continue to resolve the identity verification issues required to reach our 15 million households’ target.

Hard Truths on Debt and Revenue

The progress we have made does not diminish the tough realities we still face. Debt service costs remain heavy, consuming a larger-than-ideal share of our revenues. This is the consequence of past borrowing and elevated interest rates. At the same time, Nigeria’s fiscal revenue-to-GDP ratio, at about 10 percent after rebasing, remains one of the lowest in Africa. This limits government resources for essential services like health, education, and infrastructure.

On 26 June 2025, the President signed the new Nigeria Tax Act and companion legislation, to take effect on 1 January 2026. These reforms aim to broaden the tax base, simplify compliance, and reduce leakages, while introducing a more progressive tax regime that shields lower-income earners and adjusts rates for higher earners. Together with structural revenue reforms such as the Revenue Optimisation and Assurance programme (RevOp), these measures will strengthen revenues, create fiscal space, and support greater investment in our people and infrastructure.

Anchoring Growth in Real Sectors

A stable economy is crucial, but stability alone is insufficient. To deliver inclusive prosperity, we must anchor growth in sectors that generate jobs and opportunities. We are providing necessary incentives to revive investments in the oil and gas industry. With improved security, oil theft is down, and production has rebounded to 1.68 million barrels per day, including condensates. Refinery projects are setting the stage for a stronger downstream sector.

In agriculture, we are boosting food supply, reducing reliance on imports, and ensuring farmers have security and access to markets. We are encouraging investment in factories and strategic value chains, creating employment for our young and dynamic workforce. We are investing in technology and the creative sector to harness the energy of our youth and position Nigeria as a hub of innovation. In addition, we are expanding exports beyond oil by tapping into the global demand for critical minerals.

Infrastructure is the backbone of growth. Public funds alone cannot meet Nigeria’s vast needs, so we are attracting private capital through public-private partnerships. The Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano gas pipeline, and Project Bridge’s 90,000 km fibre expansion are examples of how we are laying out the groundwork for industrialisation and nationwide connectivity.

Restoring Confidence at Home and Abroad

As I begin to conclude, the clearest sign that Nigeria is on the right path is the return of confidence. Investors – both domestic and foreign, multilateral institutions, and ordinary citizens are starting to believe in the nation’s prospects again. But confidence is fragile. Sustaining it demands a predictable policy environment, disciplined fiscal management, and steady progress in reducing inflation.

Our medium-term target is 7 percent growth by 2027/28. Achieving this will require not only government action but the full participation of the private sector, entrepreneurs, and citizens. I am confident that if we work together, we will not only meet this target but surpass it. The task ahead, therefore, is to deepen resilience, broaden opportunities, and ensure that reforms translate into real improvements in daily life—better schools, affordable food, reliable power, accessible healthcare, and jobs for our youth.

Then, we can be assured that Nigeria’s next decade will be one of shared prosperity and renewed hope.

 

*Wale Edun is the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy

Ouattara Wins Fourth Term in Ivory Coast election

By
Kazeem Busari
-
Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara

President Alassane Ouattara has been declared the winner of Côte d’Ivoire’s presidential election, securing a fourth term with approximately 89.8 % of the vote, according to provisional results released by the national electoral commission on October 27, 2025.

The vote was marked by a low turnout, with just around 50 % of registered voters casting ballots. Observers noted empty polling stations in several urban areas including Abidjan.

Ouattara’s main rivals, including former first lady Simone Gbagbo and ex-commerce minister Jean‑Louis Billon, finished well behind, with Billon conceding defeat ahead of the official confirmation.

Some of the country’s most prominent opposition figures, such as former President Laurent Gbagbo and former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam, were barred from running, prompting critics to question the openness of the electoral process.

Ouattara, 83, has been in office since 2011. His re-election follows constitutional changes and political maneuvers that allowed him to reset term limits and seek additional mandates. The government hailed his economic stewardship, pointing to robust growth in the cocoa-rich nation.

However, the election also raises serious concerns. Analysts warn the dominance of a single leader and the exclusion of significant opposition voices may erode democratic norms in the region. “It is clear that from the outset, there has been no election … because the Constitutional Council chose the candidates on political grounds,” one civil-society leader told a news outlet.

Opposition supporters and human rights observers remain cautious. While voting proceeded without major incidents, the atmosphere of muted public engagement and the sidelining of challengers have cast a long shadow over the outcome. The full, final results must still be validated by the country’s Constitutional Council.

For now, Côte d’Ivoire stands at a crossroads—not only with a new term ahead of Ouattara, but also with questions about how the country can reconcile stability, economic progress and democratic accountability in an evolving West African political landscape.

Hurricane Melissa Tears Through the Caribbean, Jamaica Braces for Catastrophe

By
Kazeem Busari
-

Hurricane Melissa has rapidly intensified into a Category 5 storm as it bears down on Jamaica, leaving residents and authorities scrambling in its path. The hurricane is forecast to unleash catastrophic rain, destructive winds, and life-threatening flooding across much of the island by Tuesday night.

Meteorologists warn that Melissa’s slow movement will amplify its danger: rainfall totals may reach 30 to 40 inches in some regions, while storm surges could push seawater several feet inland along Jamaica’s southern coast.

Coastal communities are especially at risk of flooding and structural damage.

The storm has already left a deadly trail across Hispaniola. In Haiti, officials confirmed at least one death when heavy rains triggered flooding and landslides.

Elsewhere, infrastructure damage, power outages and disruptions in basic services are mounting.

Jamaica has issued widespread warnings under alert conditions. Authorities activated over 880 shelters across the island and ordered evacuations in highly vulnerable areas, including parts of Kingston and Port Royal.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness urged citizens to take the threat seriously and seek safety immediately. “Take all measures to protect yourself,” he said, stressing that no area should consider itself immune from harm.

U.S. forecasters have flagged the hurricane as one of the strongest ever seen in the region. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned of “catastrophic” flash flooding and numerous landslides, especially in mountainous terrain.

The NHC report also cautioned that weakening of winds does not mean reduced impact — extended rainfall and surges can exact massive destruction.

Beyond Jamaica, Melissa’s projected path includes Cuba, and the Bahamas, where storm conditions may spread following the island landfall.

In response, disaster management agencies across the Caribbean have issued calls for action. Residents have been urged to stock supplies, reinforce property, and evacuate low-lying zones.

At least seven fatalities have been attributed to Melissa so far, spanning Jamaica, Haiti and other impacted islands. The full extent of property damage and recovery needs remains unclear.

As the window for preparation narrows, Jamaica and neighboring Caribbean nations face a dire test. The coming hours will determine the storm’s human and economic cost — and whether early warnings and evacuations save lives.

1...424344...47Page 43 of 47

EDITOR PICKS

Recent Posts

© 2026 Metro-Standard