The Nation Newspaper

Category: Inside Africa

  • UNDP, GJF rethink governance, building trust in Sahel

    UNDP, GJF rethink governance, building trust in Sahel

    Efforts to tackle the persistent challenges facing the Sahel region are set to gain new momentum with the launch of the Sahel Governance Forum. 

    Against a backdrop of political instability, insecurity and economic hardship, the forum aims to serve as a crucial platform for redefining governance and promoting lasting solutions in the region.

    The inaugural edition of this landmark initiative will take place in The Gambia from July 30–31, 2025. 

    It is being convened in partnership with the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF), the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), the Office of the Special Coordinator for Development in the Sahel (OSCDS) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

    The Sahel is no doubt at a crossroads. From Mali to Burkina Faso and from Chad to Niger, democratic institutions are under severe strain. Military coups, insurgent violence, disinformation campaigns, and the marginalization of youth and women have combined to undermine peace and good governance. In this context, the Forum was convened not merely as a conference but as an incubator for resilience, a platform where leaders, civil society, and international partners could collectively chart a path forward.

    Crucially, the Forum has come to serve as a convener of dialogue at a time when dialogue is under constraint. With rising authoritarian tendencies and waning trust in electoral processes, forums such as this become sanctuaries for democratic discourse. The Sahel Governance Forum, therefore, is more than an event, it is a defiant stand for inclusive governance, institutional strengthening, and sustainable peace.

    This is knowing that at the heart of the governance conundrum in the Sahel lies a deeper legitimacy crisis. When citizens lose faith in the state’s ability, or willingness to deliver justice, security, and opportunity, governance becomes fragile, and the potential for unrest multiplies. This is why the Forum’s focus on social cohesion and trust is not only timely but essential.

    The conference is being availed further weight by the enduring legacy of Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former President of Nigeria and a globally recognized champion of peace and democracy. Through the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, he has consistently advanced the ideals of democracy, reconciliation, and good governance, particularly in conflict-prone societies. His presence and active leadership at the Forum underscores his deep commitment to these values.

    Dr. Jonathan’s post-presidency has become a case study in transformative leadership. Rather than retreat into quiet retirement, he has thrown his weight behind peace mediation efforts, electoral integrity missions, and democratic reforms across Africa. His role in helping to peacefully resolve political crises in The Gambia (2016-2017), Mali, and elsewhere, attests to his diplomatic clout and unwavering belief in democracy as a tool for development.

    Read Also: Abia signs MoU With UNDP to accelerate development

    The Foundation he leads has become a respected pan-African institution, convening stakeholders, producing research, and advocating for policies that deepen democratic practice, especially in leading mediation missions during elections in order to prevent election related crises in the nations of the subregion. Through its work, GJF has built a bridge between theory and practice, between policymakers and the people, and between conflict and consensus.

    What makes the Sahel Governance Forum especially significant is its collaborative DNA. The GJF, in joining forces with the UNDP, UNOWAS, OSCDS, underscores the necessity of multilateral approaches to the region’s complex governance challenges.

    Each partner brings to the table a wealth of experience, institutional capacity, and local knowledge. UNOWAS offers political insight and regional strategy. OSCDS brings in development-oriented perspectives crucial to tackling root causes of fragility. The UNDP contributed its global development lens, with special attention to inclusive governance and capacity building.

    The GJF which hosts the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) brings to bear on the process, the wealth of experience and wisdom of the subregion’s former Presidents and statesmen who populate the body as members.

    Together, these institutions forged a coalition of intent; intent on restoring citizen trust, empowering local governance structures, and promoting peaceful political transitions.

    Hosting the inaugural Forum in The Gambia is a symbolic masterstroke. Once under autocratic rule, The Gambia has emerged in recent years as a hopeful example of democratic renewal. Its peaceful transition of power in 2017, in which Dr. Jonathan played a mediating role, highlighted the power of dialogue over violence. By returning to Banjul to host this Forum, the region was reminded of what is possible when democracy is protected and nurtured.

    President Adama Barrow’s administration, in hosting the Forum, affirms its commitment to regional leadership on governance. 

    The success of the Sahel Governance Forum must not be measured solely by the speeches delivered or communiqués released. Its real legacy will lie in how effectively its recommendations are implemented, how robustly its networks are maintained, and how consistently its spirit of dialogue is kept alive. Forums come and go, but institutions and movements must endure.

    This is where the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation can play a unique role. With its growing influence, it can serve as a moral compass and a strategic convener, helping to translate forum outcomes into real-world impact. Its independence and credibility position it well to act as a bridge between governments, civil society, and international partners.

    The Sahel Governance Forum is a model worth replicating across Africa, a model rooted in inclusive dialogue, multilateral collaboration, and African leadership. It is a timely reminder that Africa’s governance challenges, while formidable, are not insurmountable.

    Dr. Goodluck Jonathan’s vision of “democracy as a tool for peace” continues to resonate across the continent. His Foundation, through initiatives like this Forum, is helping to build the scaffolding for a more stable, democratic, and prosperous Sahel.

    The work is far from over, but the journey has begun. And thanks to the Sahel Governance Forum, it is a journey that now has direction, allies, and renewed hope.

  • Global collaboration is key to advancing charity in Africa – Habeeb Okunola

    Global collaboration is key to advancing charity in Africa – Habeeb Okunola

    Nigerian philanthropist and businessman Dr. Habeeb Okunola has said there is a need for global leaders and philanthropists to share ideas and further charitable work in Africa.

    Okunola said this at the Global Gift Gala, held recently in Marbella, Spain, hosted by celebrated Hollywood star Eva Longoria.

    The event emphasised global sustainable development and its power to transform the lives of vulnerable children, women, and families worldwide.

    Speaking at the event, Okunola said, “I am truly honoured to be at this year’s edition of the Global Gift Gala in Marbella, themed A Night of Hope and Generosity, having received an invitation from His Excellency Sheikh Mohammad Al-Sabah and Her Highness Princess Béatrice D’ D’Orleans.

    “The Global Gift Gala is an incredible platform for uniting with like-minded individuals who share a passion for creating lasting change. I look forward to connecting with global leaders and philanthropists to share ideas and further the charitable work that we are doing in Africa.”

    On her part, Longoria said, “We are united tonight by the vision of creating a better world for those who need it most, whose long-standing commitment to social causes has made her a key figure in global philanthropic efforts.

    Read Also: Habeeb Okunola mourns Buhari, Awujale

    “The Global Gift Gala is not just about giving, it is about creating sustainable change. It is about ensuring that the support we provide empowers communities to thrive long after the gala ends.”

    Okunola, the visionary behind the Habeeb Okunola Foundation, is well-known for his contributions to social causes in Nigeria and Africa.

    His dedication to addressing issues such as education, healthcare and community development has earned him recognition both locally and internationally.

  • Bamako summit revives Africa’s call for colonial reparations

    Bamako summit revives Africa’s call for colonial reparations

    Africa’s longstanding call for colonial reparations was revived at an international roundtable held in Bamako, Mali, where experts, politicians, and civil society leaders demanded compensation from former colonial powers for centuries of exploitation and injustice.

    In a communique issued after the meeting themed “Colonial Crimes: It’s Time for Compensations,” participants emphasised the need for formal recognition of colonial damage as a basis for reparations, the strengthening of legal frameworks, and the calculation of economic losses suffered by African nations.

    The communique criticised the International Criminal Court for failing to deliver fair and impartial justice, describing its actions as politicised and ineffective in addressing Africa’s historical grievances.

    It also highlighted the potential role of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights in advancing reparative justice on the continent.

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    According to the communique, the roundtable brought together Chairman of the National Transitional Council’s Commission on Agriculture, Mohamed Ousmane Ag Mohamedoun Haidara; Vice Chairman of the Commission on Security, Ousseynou Ouattara; Chairman of the Commission on Territorial Administration, Youssouf Coulibaly; Historian, Amadou Diaw; President of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Modibo Sacko; journalist and author, Daouda Naman Tékété; and co-founder of the Pan-African International Organisation (OIP), Assane Seye.

    The communique emphasised that the roundtable marked an important step towards uniting African voices in the push for historical justice and building a roadmap to hold former colonial powers accountable.

  • Africa’s premier leather industry revolution takes centre stage at LLF 2025

    Africa’s premier leather industry revolution takes centre stage at LLF 2025

    By Omolara Akintoye 

     The highly anticipated 8th edition of Lagos Leather Fair – LLF2025 has concluded with unprecedented success at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, marking a transformative milestone in Africa’s evolving leather industry.

     Under the forward-thinking theme “Designing for tomorrow,” West Africa’s largest leather exhibition attracted a remarkable turnout of makers, designers, investors, and industry stakeholders from across the continent over two groundbreaking days.

    The Fair opened its doors to a world of leather, legacy, and limitless creativity, further underscored by the presence of Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, who represented Lagos Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. 

    In a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the Governor, Ajigbotafe said: “Our administration remains unwavering in its commitment to transforming the leather industry through innovation, sustainable practices, and economic diversification. We will continue to support initiatives like the Lagos Leather Fair that empower entrepreneurs, promote local industries, and position Lagos as a hub of creativity and industrial excellence.” 

    The opening workshop tagged “Mastering the Art of Winning Grants,” delivered by Olugbenga Ogunbowale, the Grant Master, revealed the staggering reality facing African creatives, and emphasised major challenges in funding applications such as self-doubt, poorly written pitches and the fear of rejection.

     Key insights included Kanyisade Ademuson’s powerful statement:  “Nigerian’ doesn’t mean cheaper. If the quality is there, price with pride. If not, wait until it is.” He added, 

    The event was gracefully hosted by Ronke Giwa-Onafuwa, popularly known as Ronny G.

    In her closing remarks, Femi Olayebi, Convener of Lagos Leather Fair and Creative Director of FemiHandbags, shared: “LLF has grown from a small spark to a full-blown movement,” she said.  “We are shaping a future for African leather that is bold, brilliant, and ours. LLF 2026 will be even more ambitious, and I can’t wait to welcome you again next year.”

    The Fair concluded with the prestigious LLF Awards ceremony, celebrating trailblazers setting new standards in African leather excellence.

    Cheques of ₦1,000,000 each were presented to three standout leatherpreneurs among others.

    As Lagos Leather Fair continues to redefine what’s possible for Africa’s leather industry, it stands as more than just an exhibition but a movement committed to unlocking the continent’s creative and commercial potential through leather excellence.

  • Young journalists incredibly valuable – US Ag. Consul General

    Young journalists incredibly valuable – US Ag. Consul General

    By Eunice Ayobami

    What’s unique about being an early career journalist in the present digital age that young journalists should know to maximise opportunities to develop their careers?

    How can they practice journalism in a way that stands them out from those who publish falsehoods?

    The Acting Consul General at the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos, JoEllen Gorg, said they have something incredibly valuable, which is a plus to achieve their dreams in the media profession.

    “A fresh perspective.  You’re part of a generation that’s growing up at a time of immense social, political, and technological change,” she reminded participants in her opening remarks at the Journalism Clinic on Media Law and Ethics organised by the Media Career Development Network (MCDN) with the support of the Consulate on July 10, 2025, in Lagos.

    The facilitators at the programme were the CEO/Editor-In-Chief of Dimond Publications Limited, Mr Lanre Idowu and Legal practitioner and media consultant, Mr Gbemiga Ogunleye.

    According to Gorg: “You’re the ones who are fluent in the language of the digital age, where news is instant, global, and constantly evolving.”

    Unlike in the past when just the big and headline stories mattered, nowadays, she noted that the most impactful journalism is the local story about a community standing up for its rights, or the personal narrative of someone overcoming extraordinary challenges.

    “Every word, every sentence, has the potential to make a difference in someone’s life,” she said, noting that with that potential for change comes a responsibility to seek the truth, to be fair, and to be honest in your work.

    More than ever before, the participants were reminded that “journalism isn’t just about writing what you think or feel.”

    “It’s about grounding your stories in facts, ensuring you’ve done the research, and giving your audience an accurate picture of what’s going on and not manipulating them to fit a narrative.  That’s what separates real journalism from clickbait or fiction.”

    She commended the commitment of journalists to telling the truth and the courage to report in a world where journalism is increasingly under pressure, noting that ethical, independent journalism has proven indispensable in holding leaders accountable, informing citizens, and safeguarding democracy.

    With the risks journalists face, from online harassment, physical intimidation, to censorship, arrest and violence, she said  Journalists need to have the space to report legitimately sourced stories without intimidation or harassment.

    Building a strong foundation in media law and ethics, according to the Acting Consul, is critical for all journalists to be well informed about legal restrictions like libel laws and the role of ethics in modern journalism.  “These are not just academic concepts; they are the tools and guardrails that will help you navigate complex situations, protect your integrity, and earn the trust of your audiences,” she stated.

    While urging the participants to ask the tough questions, challenge assumptions, and learn from one another, she stated that  “journalism is, at its core, about curiosity, courage, and commitment to the public good.”

    The CEO/Editor-in-Chief of Diamond Publications who spoke on the ethics of the media, urged journalists to internalise ethical principles and not simply memorise them.

    “Ethics is not something you cram. It’s a living thing,” Idowu told the participants, noting that “once you imbibe it, it becomes second nature. and guides your decisions daily.”

    He underscored the importance of Nigeria’s 2022 Code of Ethics for Journalists, describing it as a model of co-regulation—a framework championed by the media but inclusive of public interest groups.

    Idowu walked participants through the Code’s 16 articles, beginning with editorial independence. He warned against allowing external influences to dictate coverage. “You can tell a story about an oil company, but do it because the story is worth telling — not because you were induced to do it,” he advised.

    Mr Ogunleye stressed the need to balance press freedom with responsibility.

    “Journalists have the right to publish, but that right doesn’t extend to defaming people,” Ogunleye said. “For some, a good name is all they have. If you smear it, you have destroyed something precious.”

    He explained defamation and its long-term consequences, especially for individuals who may seek public office or traditional titles. “What you publish could follow someone for life. That’s why you must be certain of your facts,” he said.

    Ogunleye encouraged participants to read the Nigerian Constitution and familiarise themselves with legal provisions like Section 24 of the Cybercrime Act and Section 59(1) of the Criminal Code, which touch on incitement and false reporting.

    In his welcome address, the Executive Director of MCDN, Lekan Otufodunrin also noted that it’s important for all journalists to fully understand and abide by the laws and ethics in their practice.

    “One of the reasons we insist that Journalism is a profession and should not be a free for all who can string words together or have a good voice is that there are laws, regulations and ethics that guide our work which only those who are ready to abide by them should call themselves journalists or broadcasters. 

    “There are laws, ethics, implications and consequences for the things we do as journalists and we all need to constantly remind ourselves of them and not behave as if they don’t matter and we can’t be held accountable as we seek to hold the government and others,” Otufodunrin stated.  

  • How US allegedly funds João Lourenço’s private empire

    How US allegedly funds João Lourenço’s private empire

    By Alexandre de Morais Filho

    Recently, a delegation from the United States Government, which participated in the 2025 U.S.–Africa Business Summit, visited the Carrinho Group Industrial Complex located in the municipality of Catumbela, in Benguela province. The visit was part of efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the economic sector and evaluate investment opportunities. However, there may be another reason behind the visit.

    According to a report published by the German outlet ,Deutsche Welle, the Carrinho Group is essentially a pocket company of President João Lourenço. Officially, the group’s origin story is curious—it all began as a small bar in the city of Lobito, where Dona Leonor, an Angolan woman with a sharp business sense, sold drinks and meals. 

    The small bar quickly transformed into a vast agri-food empire, now boasting 17 processing plants for rice, wheat, and corn, as well as several facilities for refining edible oils. In a short time, the Carrinho Group built the largest storage infrastructure in Angola, with the capacity to hold 100,000 tons of cereals and 55,000 cubic meters of oilseed product tanks.

    There are strong rumours that the largest shareholder in the Carrinho company is none other than the President of the Republic of Angola himself, Mr. João Manuel GonçalvesLourenço. If confirmed, this raises serious questions about conflict of interest and unethical business practices. The company’s methods are questionable at best. Its field agents travel through communities on motorbikes, buying corn at extremely low prices without allowing any room for negotiation. This practice, often seen as a form of barter, places communities at a significant disadvantage.

    According to legal expert, Rui Verde, “It was the President himself” who personally inaugurated the first phase of the group’s massive industrial park in Benguela in November 2019. This has fuelled social media rumours suggesting that João Lourenço has “opaque and personal ties” to the company.

    Furthermore, José Gama, a journalist and director of the news portal, Club-K, has spent years trying to uncover the secrets behind Carrinho Group’s rapid rise. He argues that the company’s success is largely due to securing lucrative exclusive supply contracts with major firms such as the state oil company, Sonangol, the National Electricity Company (ENE), Brazilian giants Odebrecht and Camargo Corrêa, and even the National Police and the Armed Forces of Angola. These are deals that would clearly be in the interest of the head of state, João Lourenço.

    If these rumors turn out to be true, one could deduce that American investors may end up funding a deeply corrupt scheme in Angola a group engaged in unfair economic practices that harm small Angolan producers.

  • Africa’s independence incomplete without reparations, says Mahama

    Africa’s independence incomplete without reparations, says Mahama

    Ghanaian President and African Union (AU) Champion for Reparations, John Mahama, has declared that Africa’s true independence cannot be achieved without reparations for centuries of exploitation.

    Mahama made this statement while presenting a progress report on the AU’s 2025 theme, Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations, during the 7th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.

    “Restitution to the African is the restoration of our full human dignity. This movement speaks of healing deep civilisational wounds and restoring to African peoples our rightful agency in shaping our past, present, and future.

    “We cannot speak of development without identity, or preparations without acknowledging the erasure that has fractured our heritage. Only through reparations can Africa overcome centuries of exploitation,” he said.

    The Ghanaian President announced that the AU Executive Council had approved a decade-long extension of the reparations agenda, from 2026 to 2036, to sustain momentum and develop strategies for resource mobilisation across member states.

    READ ALSO: Yahaya Bello weds fourth wife in private ceremony

    Mahama emphasised that reparations must move beyond public conversation to become state policy, urging African governments to integrate reparations into their diplomatic agendas and legal frameworks.

    “Every African government must prioritise reparations as a national project. Collective action through the African Union and regional bodies will strengthen negotiations, ensuring unified demands,” he said.

    He also announced that Ghana and Togo would co-sponsor a high-level event on reparations at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025 to amplify Africa’s position globally, while encouraging stronger collaboration with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

    Mahama argued that compensation would enable African nations to rebuild modern, competitive economies and invest in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

    However, he acknowledged that former colonial powers are unlikely to pay willingly, citing historical resistance and a lack of political will, but urged persistence through advocacy and international pressure.

    “This is not a request; it is the rightful demand of African nations. We reject handouts and empty humanitarian gestures. What we insist upon is full and comprehensive restitution,” he said.

  • Ghana eyes Ukrainian drone tech amid Ukraine’s wartime struggles

    Ghana eyes Ukrainian drone tech amid Ukraine’s wartime struggles

    By Andriy Melnyk

    Ghana’s sudden interest in Ukrainian drones has taken many by surprise. It was reported that during a  phone conversation earlier this month, President John Dramani Mahama expressed strong enthusiasm for Ukrainian unmanned aerial systems, signaling Ghana’s intent to both purchase drones and support Ukraine’s drone manufacturing efforts financially. It’s a bold move, reflecting Ghana’s ambitions to modernize its security capabilities, but one that comes at a time when Ukraine’s own ability to deliver remains uncertain.

    The news broke through President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s social media post on July 11, where he shared that the two countries are looking to deepen their cooperation. While agricultural logistics and food distribution were part of the conversation, it was Ghana’s clear desire to access Ukraine’s drone expertise that stood out. Ukraine’s experience with drones in its ongoing war has made it a global innovator in the field, with thousands of drones deployed for surveillance, precision attacks, and electronic warfare. These tools, born of necessity, are proving to be valuable exports.

    According to Zelenskyy, Ghana is prepared to back Ukraine’s production lines financially in exchange for help in protecting its own borders. The conversation between the two leaders set in motion plans for a Ukrainian delegation to travel to Accra, where government officials will discuss the practical steps needed to turn the shared vision into actionable agreements.

    Despite the optimism, there are serious concerns about whether Ukraine is in any position to deliver defense equipment abroad, especially now. The country is fully engaged in a brutal war, and its military-industrial complex is stretched to its limits. Every available resource, from manpower to materials, is directed toward maintaining Ukraine’s own defense. Drone factories are working around the clock to supply the frontlines, leaving little room for exports.

    Over the past three years of war, international aid has kept Ukraine afloat, but it hasn’t been enough to cover the full scope of the country’s defense needs. European countries have been the main contributors, especially in financial and humanitarian aid, but military support now faces a turning point. At the outset of the war, most aid came from existing stockpiles. Today, those arsenals are nearly exhausted. As a result, weapons and munitions must be purchased directly from manufacturers, a much slower and costlier process. What was once a rapid response effort is now a long, drawn-out race between demand and supply chain limitations.

    This shift has transformed the war into a contest of industrial capacity. Ukraine’s defense manufacturers are under constant pressure to produce at scale and with speed, which leaves little flexibility for exporting systems abroad. The drone sector, hailed for its battlefield innovations, is especially strained. Committing drones or technologies to foreign partners like Ghana would require excess capacity Ukraine simply doesn’t have right now. As drone production is redirected almost exclusively to domestic needs, it’s unclear whether any side project—no matter how diplomatically valuable—can be prioritized.

    And while war limits Ukraine’s capabilities, corruption threatens to derail even the best-laid plans. The recent criminal charges against Pavlo Kyrylenko, head of Ukraine’s Anti-Monopoly Committee, were only the latest in a long string of scandals that continue to erode public trust. Investigators revealed that Kyrylenko and his family had amassed luxury properties and assets worth millions, sparking national outrage. It was a sharp reminder that corruption is not just a relic of the past—it remains deeply embedded in Ukraine’s institutions.

    The issue runs deeper than one official. Over the years, scandals have rocked everything from the Defense Ministry to national prosecutors.

    Read Also: Alleged forgery, false information: Court shifts trial of lawyer, three Ghanaians till October 

    One former defense minister was dismissed after it was discovered that food contracts for soldiers were being inflated—an emblematic case of opportunism during wartime. For countries like Ghana that might be considering investing in Ukrainian defense industries, this raises legitimate concerns about accountability, transparency, and whether funds will truly go where promised.

    These internal obstacles are compounded by external political uncertainty. Ukraine’s future military aid could be influenced by global political dynamics. Recently, former US President Donald Trump made headlines by threatening to impose trade consequences on Russia if no peace deal is reached within 50 days. While aimed at pushing for resolution, such rhetoric adds unpredictability to the entire military supply chain. If Ukraine’s allies recalibrate their support or shift their attention, the effects will ripple down to projects like Ghana’s proposed drone partnership.

    The dialogue between Presidents Mahama and Zelenskyy could be the beginning of something significant. But unless Ukraine can overcome the dual challenges of military strain and institutional corruption, the path from conversation to cooperation will remain steep and uncertain. Ghana’s ambitions are clear. Ukraine’s ability to deliver, however, remains a question that only time and peace can answer.

    Melnyk, a commentator on global affairs,writes from Kyiv    

  • Nine longest reigning Monarchs in Nigeria

    Nine longest reigning Monarchs in Nigeria

    The Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, died on Sunday July 13, 2025.

    The respected monarch died at 91, just hours after the announcement of the death of his longtime friend, former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Adetona, who ascended the throne in 1960, was one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning traditional rulers and widely reverred for his contributions to the sociopolitical development of Ijebuland and Ogun State at large.

    Here are the nine longest reigning Monarchs in Nigeria.

    1. Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona (Awujale of Ijebu land)

    Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona was the reverred Awujale of the Ijebu Kingdom in Nigeria, installed as king on April 2, 1960. Born on May 10, 1934, he reigned for over 65 years, becoming one of Nigeria’s longest-serving monarchs. He belonged to the Anikinaiya royal house and passed away on July 13, 2025.

    2. Oba Okunade Sijuwade

    Oba Okunade Sijuwade was the 50th Ooni of Ife, who ruled from 1980 to 2015. He ascended the throne in 1980 and ruled for 35 years until his death in 2015. He played a significant role in promoting Yoruba culture, unity, and national development, leveraging his business expertise and influential position to drive positive change. As a traditional leader, he worked to preserve Yoruba heritage and facilitated dialogue to resolve disputes, leaving a lasting impact on Nigerian society.

    3. Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III

    Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III reigned as the Alaafin of Oyo for 52 years from November 18, 1970, until his passing on April 22, 2022. He was 83 years old at the time of his death and holds the record for the longest-reigning monarch in Oyo history.

    4. Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III

     Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III served as the Soun of Ogbomoso for 48 years, from October 24, 1973, until his passing on December 12, 2021. He holds the record for the longest-serving Soun in Ogbomoso’s history, leaving a lasting legacy of development and progress in the ancient city.

    5. Oba Erediauwa

    Oba Erediauwa was the 38th Oba of Benin, reigning from March 23, 1979, to April 29, 2016. He served for 37 years. Born on June 22, 1923, in Benin City, Nigeria, he was the son of Oba Akenzua II and succeeded his father to the throne. Before his coronation, he was known as Prince Solomon Aiseokhuoba Igbinoghodua Akenzua.

    Oba Erediauwa passed away on April 29, 2016, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom, peace, and cultural preservation in the Benin Kingdom.

    6. Alhaji Shehu Idris

    Alhaji Shehu Idris reigned as the 18th Emir of Zazzau for 45 years from February 8, 1975, until his passing on September 20, 2020. During his long and illustrious reign, he played a significant role in promoting peace, stability, and development in the Zazzau Emirate, and was widely respected for his wisdom, humility, and commitment to the welfare of his people.

    Read Also: Five longest reigning monarchs in Nigeria history

    7. Kpop Ham, Dr. Jonathan Danladi Gyet Maude

    Kpop Ham, Dr. Jonathan Danladi Gyet Maude, has reigned as the paramount ruler of Ham (Jaba) Chiefdom in southern Kaduna State, Nigeria, for over 51 years. He was coronated in 1974 and is still in office. During his long reign, he has demonstrated empathy and commitment to peace, often canceling the annual Tuk Ham festival to show solidarity with his people during times of crisis. He has also received recognition for his traditional leadership, including the DINMA 2006 award.

    8. Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II

    Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II, the Onigede of Igede-Ekiti, has reigned for 66 years, ascending to the throne on June 26, 1959. He is recognised as the longest-serving monarch in Nigeria and one of the longest-reigning traditional rulers in Africa. Oba Aladesuru is overseeing significant developments in Igede-Ekiti, including improvements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and socio-cultural life.

    9. Chief of Kagoro, Gwamma Awan 

    Gwamna Awan was the Chief of Kagoro, a Nigerian traditional state in southern Kaduna State. He was born in 1915 in Ucyo (Fadan Kagoro) and reigned as the monarch of Gworog (Kagoro) Chiefdom for 63 years from 1945 until his passing on October 1, 2008.

  • Zuma’s MK Party backs Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara

    Zuma’s MK Party backs Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara

    The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party of South Africa, led by former President Jacob Zuma, has backed Morocco’s sovereignty over the Western Sahara and expressed support for the kingdom’s autonomy plan.

    The former President said  that his party believes Morocco’s Autonomy Proposal allows for significant local governance by the populations of the Sahara region, while ensuring that Morocco retains its sovereignty over the Sahara.

    This position was expressed in a statement by Zuma following his recent talks with Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita.

    The MK party’s position is in alignment with the strong and popular  stances expressed by many major powers, notably the United States, France,  United Kingdom and  Spain, among  others, on Morocco’s  autonomy plan for  the  Sahara. 

    According to Zuma, his party “recognises the historical and legal context that underpins Morocco’s claim to Western Sahara.”

     “Morocco’s efforts to reclaim its full territorial integrity align with the MK Party’s commitment to preserving the sovereignty and unity of African states.”

    While acknowledging the growing international and continental support that the Moroccan Autonomy Proposal has gained over the last couple of years, Zuma emphasised that the Autonomy Plan  offers a balanced path forward that promotes stability, peace, and development in the region, and called on the international community to support Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the possible effective way to ensure peace, stability, and prosperity  for the populations of the Sahara region.

    He  said  this position is in line with the MK party’s policy platform “aimed at bringing about a practical solution to the long-standing debacle on the future of the Sahara region,” which was published last month under the title “Strategic Partnership for African Unity, Economic Emancipation, and Territorial Integrity.”

    This document reaffirms that the Sahara “was part of Morocco before Spanish colonisation in the late 19th century, and  as such, it has been an integral part of Morocco for centuries.

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     Morocco’s claim predates colonisation and originates from the allegiance of the tribes to the Moroccan Throne,” while calling on the international community to “take into account the region’s historical ties with Morocco and the legitimate interests of the Moroccan people in preserving their territorial integrity.”

    The document also recalls the Glorious Green March as “an act of decolonisation and a testimony to the historical bonds between Morocco and its Sahara,” describing it as “a unique and non-violent liberation movement” during which “more than 350,000 unarmed Moroccans entered the Sahara to reclaim their land.”

    The former  President of South Africa had in 2017  met His Majesty King Mohammed VI  on the sidelines of the AU–EU Summit in Côte d’Ivoire which  ushered in  new momentum to bilateral relations between the two countries.