Posts

Showing posts with the label Global News

A Different Kind of December: Christmas on the Beach

Image
  Christmas on the Shore: A Holiday Wrapped in Sunlight There’s something quietly rebellious about spending Christmas on the beach. While the rest of the world pulls on wool sweaters, warms their hands around mugs of spiced cider, and braces for winter’s bite, you’re standing barefoot in warm sand, with the sun painting everything in gold. The ocean murmurs in the background like an easygoing caroler who only knows one verse but hums it proudly. Christmas ornaments sparkle in palm trees instead of pines. And the only frost you’ll see is the faint mist on the rim of a cold drink pulled from an ice chest. For many people, Christmas is tied tightly to a sense of tradition. Snow. Fireplaces. Cozy nights. A sense of retreat from the cold. I grew up with that version, too. But the first time I celebrated Christmas on the beach, everything I thought I knew about the holiday rearranged itself. It didn’t ruin my childhood nostalgia. It didn’t replace it. Instead, it carved out a warm, sun...

Pfizer’s $4.9 Billion Acquisition of Metsera: A Strategic Leap into the Obesity Drug Market

Image
  On September 22, 2025, Pfizer, one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies, announced its acquisition of Metsera, a company specializing in drugs for obesity and heart disease, for a staggering $4.9 billion. This bold move signals Pfizer’s intent to carve out a significant presence in the rapidly expanding market for obesity treatments, a sector that has seen explosive growth in recent years. With obesity linked to over 200 health conditions, the therapeutic area represents a critical frontier for pharmaceutical innovation. This article explores the details of the acquisition, its strategic implications, the competitive landscape, and what it means for Pfizer’s future in the pharmaceutical industry. The Acquisition: Key Details The deal, announced on Monday, involves Pfizer acquiring all outstanding shares of Metsera’s common stock at $47.50 per share. The transaction is expected to close in the final quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals and customary closing c...

Hilda Baci completes a world record attempt for the largest pot of Jollof rice

Image
  Nigerian chef Hilda ‘Baci’ Bassey has completed her attempt to set a world record for the largest pot of jollof rice during an eight-hour cooking session at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos. Using more than five tonnes of ingredients, Baci aimed to create the largest jollof dish ever prepared. She reported pouring 4,000 kilograms of basmati rice, 500 cartons of tomato concentrate, 750 kilograms of cooking oil, and 600 kilograms of onions into a large steel cauldron measuring six metres in diameter. Initially planning to cook 250 bags of rice, she adjusted the amount to 200 bags to remain within the 20,000-kilogram limit. “It was safer to keep it below the scale’s capacity. Reducing by 1,000 kilograms still gave us enough to feed 20,000 people,” she noted. The Weigh-In The event attracted thousands, with 20,000 individuals officially registered for the free occasion titled “Gino World Jollof Festival With Hilda Baci.” However, tension arose when the pot was lifted for weighing. Duri...

UK announces a £400m contract with Google Cloud Information

Image
The UK government has entered into a £400 million ($543 million) contract with Google Cloud, just days before President Donald Trump’s visit. The agreement is intended to enable the UK to utilize the same technology as the US and enhance bilateral cooperation.  According to Britain’s Ministry of Defence (MoD), the deal aims to strengthen secure communication links between the UK and US, complementing the existing intelligence and security partnership between the two nations the MoD stated, ''that the latest technology from Google Cloud, including AI, data analytics, and cyber security, will be made available to defence intelligence and national security experts.''  The department indicated that both the UK and US will now be able to use the same technology at the same classification, thus reinforcing allied missions and partnerships.  The ministry emphasized that data stored on the platform will not be shared with the US through this platform.  Additionally, the mini...

Oracle nears $1 trillion club, tech stocks rise

Image
  Oracle’s shares increased on Thursday, continuing a record surge from the previous session and positively affecting the tech sector.  A report from Reuters indicated that the company is approaching the significant milestone of a trillion-dollar valuation, driven by substantial growth in its AI cloud business.  The enterprise software company's notable rise has been supported by a series of multi-billion-dollar cloud contracts, highlighting the increasing demand for computing power as many companies invest heavily to lead in the AI industry.  The stock's performance also positions Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison to potentially surpass Elon Musk as the world's richest individual.  Additionally, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that OpenAI has entered into a $300 billion agreement with Oracle for computing power, one of the largest deals in history, which is expected to contribute significantly to the new revenue Oracle announced on Tuesday.  Or...

JAMB panel uncovered 4,251 fingerprint manipulations and 190 AI cheats during the 2025 UTME

Image
  The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Special Committee on Examination Infractions (SCEIi) has submitted its report to the examination body, detailing how technology-driven malpractice is affecting Nigeria’s admission process.  During a presentation in Abuja to the Registrar of the Board, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, the Committee Chairman, Jake Epelle, reported the discovery of 4,251 cases of “finger blending” and 192 instances of AI-assisted impersonation through image morphing that occurred during investigations into the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).  In addition to finger blending and AI impersonation, the committee documented 1,878 false disability claims, forged credentials, multiple registrations for national identification numbers (NIN), and collusion between candidates and examination syndicates.  The panel, established on August 18, was tasked with investigating the increase in examination infractions, reviewing JAMB’s ...

TUC tells FG to remove 5% petroleum product tax or face national strike

Image
  The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has announced its rejection of the Federal Government’s proposed five percent tax on petroleum products, labeling it as a detrimental proposal that adds to the burdens facing Nigerians.  The union expressed concerns that this government policy, if put into effect, would exacerbate existing hardships, negatively impact businesses, and increase poverty among citizens.  The TUC stated that the Federal Government should not continue to place the economic burdens of its policies on the shoulders of Nigerians.  The union indicated that citizens are still struggling with the consequences of subsidy removal, rising fuel prices, food inflation, and a declining currency.  They argued that introducing an additional tax on petroleum products would only worsen these conditions and harm businesses further.  The TUC has urged the government to abandon what it calls an "anti-people's plan" entirely, warning that failure to do so ...

The 'Blood Moon' rises during the total lunar eclipse

Image
  Stargazers observed a “Blood Moon” on Sunday night during a total lunar eclipse that was visible across Asia and parts of Europe and Africa.  When the Sun, Earth, and Moon align, the shadow cast by Earth on the Moon gives it a deep red color, which has fascinated humans for centuries.  Individuals in Asia, particularly in India and China, had the best view of Sunday’s total eclipse, which was also visible on the eastern edge of Africa and in western Australia.  The total lunar eclipse occurred between 1730 GMT and 1852 GMT.  People in Europe and Africa experienced a brief partial eclipse as the Moon rose early in the evening, while viewers in the Americas were not able to see it.  The Moon appears red during lunar eclipses because the sunlight that reaches it is “reflected and scattered through the Earth’s atmosphere,” according to Ryan Milligan, an astrophysicist at Queen’s University Belfast in Northern Ireland.  He explained that blue wavelengths ...

Pope Leo declares 'God's Influencer' the first saint of the millennial age

Image
  Tens of thousands of people gathered at the Vatican on Sunday as Pope Leo XIV canonized the Catholic Church's first millennial saint, an Italian teenager known for his efforts to spread the faith online.  Carlo Acutis, who was born in London and died of leukemia in 2006 at the age of 15, was canonized in a ceremony held in St. Peter's Square, with his family in attendance.  The Vatican estimated the crowd at approximately 80,000, with many young people present.  Filippo Bellaviti, 17, remarked on Acutis's ability to balance his daily life—school, football, and his passion for IT—with a strong faith.  He described the atmosphere as "beautiful," noting the affection for Acutis from people around the world. On the same day, Pier Giorgio Frassati, an Italian mountaineering enthusiast who died of polio at 24 in 1925, was also canonized.  Tapestries featuring images of both young men adorned the facade of St. Peter's Basilica.  Pope Leo stated during his h...

NUPENG insists on strike and urges Nigerians to ignore the Nigerian Truck Drivers' Association

Image
  The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has announced plans to initiate a nationwide strike on Monday, September 8, 2025, alleging that the management of Dangote Refinery engages in exploitative labor practices akin to modern-day slavery.  This announcement was made in a statement on Sunday, signed by NUPENG’s President, Williams Akporeha, and General Secretary, Afolabi Olufemi.  The union previously indicated the intention to strike last Friday, citing purported anti-labor practices by the refinery.  The company has not yet responded to these allegations.  Central to the dispute is Dangote’s controversial strategy to bypass traditional distribution methods by introducing 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered trucks for direct fuel delivery to retailers, commencing August 15.  NUPENG criticized what it termed a clear anti-union stance taken by the Dangote Group, alleging that the company prevented newly hired drivers for the i...

Trade gap widens beyond expectations in U.S.

Image
  As a result of a rush to beat another wave of President Donald Trump's tariffs, the US trade deficit expanded more than expected in July, government data showed Thursday. In July, the U.S. trade deficit increased by 32.5 percent to $78.3 billion, according to the Department of Commerce.  Imports rose by 5.9 percent to $358.8 billion, while exports increased by 0.3 percent to $280.5 billion.  The deficit exceeded a Briefing.com consensus forecast of $64.2 billion.  Pantheon Macroeconomics analysts suggest the widening trade gap may be related to pre-tariff inventory accumulation, according to a recent report.  In April, a 10-percent tariff was imposed on a large number of U.S. trading partners, and subsequent plans to increase these tariffs for numerous economies were postponed twice.  The increased tariffs for major partners, including the European Union, Japan, and India, were implemented in early August.  It is believed that companies that increase...

During the third anniversary of the Queen's death, Prince Harry is scheduled to visit the UK

Image
 Observers expect this visit by the estranged prince to raise speculation about whether or not he will rekindle ties with the royal family. Prince Harry will be returning to the UK to attend a charity award ceremony on September 8, which marks the third anniversary of the death of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II.  The charity WellChild, which recognizes the accomplishments of children with serious illnesses, announced, “Prince Harry will be celebrating 20 years of the WellChild Awards in London on September 8. ” Harry, who has been a patron of WellChild since 2007, expressed his feelings in a statement, stating, “I am always privileged to attend the WellChild Awards and meet the incredible children, families, and professionals who inspire us all with their strength and spirit.” As with previous brief visits, this trip may prompt speculation about a possible reconnection with the royal family.  However, the likelihood appears low, as Harry, 40, acknowledged in May that...

Imo Gov. Uzodimma increases minimum wage to 104,000 for Imo workers

Image
  To improve the welfare of workers in the state,the Imo State Government has approved an increase in the minimum wage from ₦70,000 to ₦104,000.  This announcement was made by Governor Hope Uzodimma during a meeting with labour leaders at the Government House in Owerri, the state capital. The matter has been an important topic of discussion between the state government and representatives of organized labour. Additionally, the governor approved ₦16 billion for the immediate clearance of all outstanding gratuities owed to pensioners in the state.  This decision received positive remarks from the labour leaders, who expressed their support. They considered it a significant step towards enhancing the conditions of workers and retirees in the state.  The meeting included various officials, such as the state NLC Chairman, Uche Chigemezu; the state Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Uchenna Ibe; the state Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), Josiah ...

The South Korean government passes a law strengthening shareholder rights

Image
  South Korea's National Assembly has approved a significant amendment to the Commercial Act aimed at strengthening shareholder rights and enhancing corporate transparency. The new legislation mandates that large listed companies, particularly those with assets exceeding 2 trillion won (approximately $1.4 billion), implement cumulative voting in board elections. It also stipulates that audit committee appointments must be voted on separately, a change intended to reduce the influence of controlling shareholders and empower minority investors in corporate governance.  This reform is part of a broader initiative by President Lee Jae Myung's administration to address the issue commonly referred to as the "Korea Discount," which describes the historical undervaluation of South Korean companies due to unclear governance practices and concentrated ownership.  The recent changes build on previous amendments passed in July, which expanded the fiduciary duties of directors to ...

Nurses' strike undermines health services, leaving patients stranded

Image
  Hospitals throughout Nigeria are facing a crisis as nurses and midwives represented by the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) embark on a seven-day nationwide warning strike. Their demands include better welfare, improved working conditions, and essential structural reforms in the healthcare sector.  Following a 15-day ultimatum given to the Federal Government, the strike has resulted in significant service disruptions at federal hospitals, leaving many critically ill patients unattended as nurses withdraw from their duties.  From Abuja to Ibadan and Abeokuta to Yenagoa, major public hospitals have reduced their operations. At the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Abuja, long lines formed at outpatient departments as patients waited for hours for basic care. A variety of services including immunization, consultations, and surgeries were impacted.  Victor Asu, the Chairman of NANNM at FMC Abuja, confirmed that all nurses have adhered to the s...

U.S. receives revised South African trade proposal.

Image
  South Africa is working quickly to submit an "enhanced" trade proposal in a final attempt to avoid a 30% tariff scheduled to take effect on Friday, as announced by Trade Minister Parks Tau on Thursday.  This proposal is being prepared at the request of U.S. officials, following a prolonged silence from Washington after South Africa's initial submission in May and a revised version in June.  “We are in the process of navigating a last-minute, strengthened version of our original proposal,” Tau stated. “Honestly, we are now just waiting to see the outcome.''  As the August 1 deadline approaches, anxiety is growing in South Africa. The governor of the country’s central bank has warned that these tariffs could jeopardize up to 100,000 jobs, especially in the agriculture and automotive sectors.  The United States ranks as South Africa’s second-largest trading partner, after China. Significant South African exports to the U.S. include vehicles, manufactured goods, c...

Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao calls for a united, economically integrated Africa in 2025

Image
  In 1963, 33 African leaders convened in Addis Ababa with a shared vision—One Africa. One army. One currency. One voice. Sixty-two years later, that vision remains an unfulfilled aspiration.  Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao delivered a powerful and impassioned speech, highlighting Africa's inability to realize the dreams envisioned by its founders. She reflected on the ideological divide between the Casablanca Group, which advocated for immediate unity, and the Monrovia Group, which favored a gradual approach, proclaiming:  When the Casablanca Group was defeated in 1963, Africa lost its pivotal moment.” During her address, she posed a challenging question to Africa’s leaders and youth:  Why is it that we have yet to achieve even the most basic goal of visa-free travel for Africans within our own continent? She shared a vivid example from a border market, where women on opposite sides were unable to trade tomatoes due to visa restrictions, describing the scenario as “ins...

Southeast Asia in Crisis: 7.9-Magnitude Earthquake and Monsoon Floods Leave Thousands Dead and Millions Displaced"

Image
  🇲🇲 Myanmar, Devastating Earthquake on March 28, 2025 On March 28, 2025 at ~12:50 MMT, a catastrophic magnitude 7.7‑7.9 earthquake struck near Mandalay in Sagaing Region, Myanmar, the strongest since 1912. The quake lasted nearly 80 seconds, caused widespread collapse of mosques, monasteries, offices, and left over 5,400 dead, 11,400 injured, and 538 missing across Myanmar. In Thailand, at least 103 fatalities occurred, including a construction site collapse in Bangkok. Major damage occurred in Mandalay, Sagaing, and Aungban,where a hotel in Aungban collapsed killing at least 10 people, and around 100 homes were destroyed in nearby villages. Estimated economic damage: USD $1.6‑11 billion; shifting death toll numbers reflect reporting challenges amid the civil war. Over 281,000 displaced, with more than 100 temporary shelters still active in early July. Response & Aid Operation Brahma: India deployed its army and medical teams starting March 28, delivering trauma care and sup...

22 states in US move to reverse Trump’s birthright citizenship order

Image
  Democratic-led states and civil rights groups filed several lawsuits challenging U.S. President Donald Trump’s bid to roll back birthright citizenship on Tuesday in an early attempt by his opponents to block his agenda in court. After his inauguration on Monday, Trump, a Republican, ordered U.S. agencies to refuse to recognize the citizenship of children born in the U.S. if neither their mother nor father is a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident. Twenty-two Democratic-led states, along with the District of Columbia and the city of San Francisco, filed a pair of lawsuits in federal courts in Boston and Seattle, asserting that Trump had violated the U.S. Constitution. Two similar cases were filed by the American Civil Liberties Union, immigrant organizations, and an expectant mother in the hours after Trump signed the executive order, kicking off the first major court fight of his administration. The lawsuits take aim at a central piece of Trump’s sweeping immigration crackdow...

All around good, brother: Hulk Hogan helps salvage adolescent young lady from flipped vehicle

Image
  Hulk Hogan has for some time been a legend in wrestling circles, however his most recent activities take his heroics a long ways past the ring. As per late reports, the WWE legend got a move toward the end of the week, assisting with saving a high schooler young lady from her vehicle, which had flipped during a multi-fender bender in Florida. Hogan, 70, had purportedly been driving along a Clearwater parkway with his better half and companion Sunday night when they saw a vehicle flip after it was cut by another vehicle, TMZ previously detailed. The grappler and his companion, Jake Rask, immediately bounced out of their vehicle to answer the crash. Reports say the pair had the option to help the young lady out of the destroyed vehicle by popping the vehicle's airbags with apparatuses they had available. Photographs acquired by the power source show Hogan and Rask with the 17-year-old young lady close to the vehicle, which was upset on its rooftop. Hogan's better half, Sky Day ...

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has given a matching order to its military standby force to restore constitutional order in Niger Republic.

Image
  This was announced by the President of ECOWAS, Omar Alieu Touray, while reading the resolution of the regional bloc on the Niger coup at an ECOWAS Extraordinary meeting in Abuja on Thursday, August 10, 2023. ECOWAS also called on the African Union, partner countries, and institutions to rally behind its resolution aimed at freeing and reinstating the deposed democratically elected President of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum. Recall that Bazoum was ousted on July 26, 2023, by a military junta headed by General Abdourahmane Tchiani, and the putschists have defiantly rejected every effort by ECOWAS to dialogue while continuing to hold the President and his family members in detention.