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Nigeria, EU, and UNICEF Forge €6.3 Million Pact to Boost Local Drug Production

Toyin Adebayo
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Nigeria, EU, and UNICEF Forge €6.3 Million Pact to Boost Local Drug Production

ABUJA – In a significant move to bolster Nigeria’s healthcare self-sufficiency, the Federal Government has entered a €6.3 million partnership with the European Union and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to stimulate the local manufacturing of essential medicines, vaccines, and nutrition products.

The 24-month initiative, signed Tuesday at the Nigeria-EU Health Investment Forum, aims to strengthen the nation’s pharmaceutical sector, secure supply chains, and reduce a longstanding dependency on imported health commodities. The agreement signals a strategic shift from traditional aid toward long-term investment in Nigeria’s industrial capacity.

The project, titled “Enabling Local Manufacturing of Health, Immunisation and Nutrition Commodities in Nigeria” (ELM-N), is funded by a €5.5 million contribution from the EU and an additional €800,000 from Spain.

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, hailed the partnership as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s evolving relationship with the EU. “This partnership is expanding opportunities for technology transfer, facility financing, and local production,” Bagudu stated, adding that it aligns with the government’s goal to position Nigeria as a regional hub for health innovation and research.

The EU’s Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Gautier Mignot, representing Team Europe, emphasized the program’s strategic nature. “More than anything, we want to support the paradigm shift taking place in Nigeria and West Africa, moving from aid to peer-to-peer collaboration,” Mignot explained. The initiative falls under the EU’s broader Global Gateway strategy, which provides support to local manufacturers and governments to build sustainable production capacity.

Stakeholders highlighted the project’s potential impact on public health outcomes. The United Nations Resident Coordinator, represented by UNICEF’s Wafaa Abdelate, connected the initiative to urgent national needs, citing over two million “zero-dose” children and high maternal mortality rates.

“This partnership must translate into access to affordable, timely, and safe vaccines, medicines, and nutrition products,” Abdelate said.

The Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Félix Costales Artieda, noted the agreement would also advance regional health security and equitable access to essential products across West Africa.

By strengthening local production and regulatory frameworks, the ELM-N project is seen as a critical step toward a more resilient health system for Nigeria and a reduction of its vulnerability to global supply chain disruptions.

Rev. Sam Oye Calls for Stronger Military Support to Tackle Rising Insecurity in Nigeria

Toyin Adebayo
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Rev. Sam Oye Calls for Stronger Military Support to Tackle Rising Insecurity in Nigeria

Renowned pastor and leadership expert, Rev. Sam Oye, has urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to increase support for the nation’s Armed Forces and deploy advanced security technology to combat the growing wave of insecurity across the country.

Speaking in Abuja during a press briefing to announce The Encounter ’25: A Global Worship Experience themed “ZOE”, the Lead Pastor of The Transforming Church (TTC) said protecting lives and property is the top constitutional duty of government.

“The major assignment of government is the protection of its citizenry. If a government fails to protect her people, the government has failed indeed,” he said.

Government Must Improve Military Welfare

Rev. Oye commended current security operations but urged stronger focus on troop welfare, equipment upgrades, and better funding for the Army, Navy and Air Force.

“The political class must make sure that the military gets the equipment they need. They also need motivation. You cannot send men to fight and not take care of them,” he stated.

He called for increased use of drones, surveillance systems, and intelligence-driven operations to drastically reduce battlefield casualties.

Church Will Continue to Support Peace Efforts

Addressing the role of churches in national security, Rev. Oye stressed that religious institutions are not enforcement agencies but provide prayers, moral guidance, and truth to power.

“Our role is to pray for those in authority, not to interfere with governance. We will continue to pray and speak truth to power,” he said.

Cleric Warns Against Dangerous Political and Religious Rhetoric

The global leadership coach warned influential figures to avoid statements capable of triggering chaos in Nigeria.

“Words start wars. We must be careful not to inflame the situation and destabilise Nigeria. That will benefit no one,” he cautioned.

Concern Over Killings in North and Middle Belt

Rev. Oye expressed deep concern over continued killings and displacements in Plateau, Bene, Nasarawa and the North-East, describing them as tragic and unacceptable.

He appealed to religious leaders of all faiths to stand together for peace and national unity.

“We will continue to pray for the government to have the courage to protect the unity of our nation,” he said.

The briefing drew wide local and international attention as participants echoed calls for proactive leadership and a united approach to securing Nigeria’s future.

FCCPC Shuts Down Five Textile Warehouses for Consumer Exploitation in Kano

Toyin Adebayo
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FCCPC Shuts Down Five Textile Warehouses for Consumer Exploitation in Kano

In a major enforcement operation in Kano, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has sealed the warehouses of five major textile distributors over deceptive sales practices targeted at unsuspecting consumers.

According to Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs at the FCCPC, the sanctioned distributors shortened and under-measured fabric materials but sold them at full price — a direct violation of consumer protection laws.

Weeks of Surveillance Led to the Crackdown

The enforcement, spearheaded by the Commission’s Director of Surveillance & Investigation, Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, followed weeks of intelligence gathering across Kano markets.

Ijagwu explained “Today’s action is the culmination of weeks-long surveillance around Kano markets by FCCPC. We established widespread sales of fabric materials significantly below the stated length or measurement while consumers paid full value.”

Clear Breach of Consumer Protection Laws

The FCCPC cited Sections 123(1) and 125(1) of the FCCPA (2018), which prohibit false, misleading, or deceptive business conduct — especially relating to quantity and pricing.

Goods involved in the sharp practices include popular textile products; LGR, U&Me, Nana Tex, V Levintus, Mama Africa, Hightex, UE, S-U Velt, and Jisiki.

Multiple warehouse locations were shut down across Kano city, including:

Gandun Abada Layout (Nos. 238, 249, 313, 315, 413 & 428)

Ibrahim Taiwo Road (Nos. 38 & 40)

87 Bua Rice Mills Street

Links I, II & III Ajasa Inuwa Wada Road

287 Gandun Albasa New Layout

FCCPC Will Not Tolerate Exploitation”

FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, Mr. Tunji Bello, condemned the fraudulent practices, stressing that they undermine fair competition and legitimate traders.

“This nefarious practice can drive compliant retailers out of the market, reducing consumer choice and encouraging anti-competitive behavior,” Bello warned.

He assured Nigerians that the Commission will continue to deploy lawful measures to stamp out exploitation in all market environments.

Retailers Warned to Follow the Law

The FCCPC reminded suppliers nationwide of their statutory obligation to ensure all goods match declared standards and measurements.

Bello praised Mrs. Adeyinka’s enforcement team and thanked security agencies for their strong cooperation.

PDP BoT Sets Up Six-Member Panel to Resolve Crisis Ahead of National Convention

Toyin Adebayo
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0
PDP BoT Sets Up Six-Member Panel to Resolve Crisis Ahead of National Convention

…Gives Committee Six Days to Submit Report

Abuja, Nigeria — The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has constituted a six-member reconciliation committee to address the escalating internal crisis within the party ahead of its national elective convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The committee, which has six days to carry out its assignment and report back, is expected to reconcile the two major factions that have polarized the PDP’s national leadership.

The party has recently been divided between a faction loyal to Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Iliya Umar Damagum, and another led by National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

The crisis has also triggered conflicting judicial pronouncements — with a High Court in Abuja temporarily halting the convention, while another in Oyo State gave the go-ahead for it to proceed.

BoT Moves to Restore Party Unity

Speaking after an emergency meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, said the intervention was necessary to prevent further deterioration of the party’s unity.

“As the conscience of the party, the BoT cannot and will not take sides,” Wabara stated. “Reconciliation is not a sign of weakness, but a demonstration of maturity and responsibility.”

He emphasized that the PDP must head into the convention as a united political force.

Members of the Reconciliation Committee

Amb. Hassan Adamu (North East) – Chairman

Chief Mike Oghiadomhe (South South) – Secretary

Chief Ugochukwu Okeke (South East)

Sen. Zaynab Kure (North Central)

Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola (South West)

Dr. Lubna Mohammed Gusau (North West)

The committee is expected to submit its report to the BoT on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

PDP Reaffirms Damagum’s Leadership

The BoT reiterated that the PDP remains a united, formidable opposition under the Amb. Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC).

Wabara praised the NWC, PDP Governors’ Forum, and Convention Planning Committee for ensuring stability during what he acknowledged as “trying moments” for the party.

He also hailed the Oyo State High Court ruling affirming the party’s right to conduct its internal affairs — calling it “a victory for democracy and the rule of law.”

Concerns Over Secretariat Invasion

The BoT expressed concern over rising tensions, including the recent attempted invasion of the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja.

“These regrettable incidents do not reflect the ideals and character of the PDP,” the BoT said.

Call for Reconciliation and Discipline

Wabara urged party members to prioritize collective interest over factional loyalty as Nigerians look to the PDP for national leadership.

“No ambition and no grievance should override the PDP’s mission.”
“The time has come to draw a line and turn a new page.”

He pledged the BoT’s readiness to mediate disputes and support a smooth, credible, and unifying convention in Ibadan.

Rev. Sam Oye Urges Stronger Military Support, Warns Against Inflammatory Rhetoric

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Rev. Sam Oye Urges Stronger Military Support, Warns Against Inflammatory Rhetoric

Renowned cleric and global leadership coach, Rev. Sam Oye, has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward strengthening Nigeria’s security institutions, fully equipping the Armed Forces, and deploying advanced technology to combat rising insecurity across the country.

Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja at a press conference ahead of The Encounter ’25: A Global Worship Experience with the theme “ZOE”, the Lead Pastor of The Transforming Church emphasized that protecting the lives and property of citizens remains the primary constitutional duty of government.

“The major assignment of government is the protection of its citizenry — that’s constitutional everywhere around the world. If a government fails to protect her people, the government has failed indeed,” Rev. Oye stated.

While acknowledging the government’s ongoing efforts, he urged greater attention to military welfare and operational capacity.

“One of the things our government needs to do right now is to actually give attention to the military. The political class must make sure that the military gets the kind of equipment they need to carry out their duties. They also need motivation. You cannot send men to fight and not take care of them,” he added.

Advocates Use of Modern Security Technology

Rev. Oye called for the deployment of drones, enhanced air surveillance, and intelligence-led strategies to minimize troop exposure to danger.

“We can’t afford to be wasting the lives of our men when we can employ technology. Today, men don’t always have to be on the battlefield. We already know where these things are happening. Let’s deploy drones. Let’s ensure the Air Force is properly equipped.”

Church’s Role: Moral Compass, Not Military Force

The cleric emphasized that while the Church must continue to pray for national peace and good governance, it should not be seen as an extension of the security apparatus.

“The Church is not a security apparatus. Our role is to pray for those in authority, not to interfere with governance. We will continue to pray and speak truth to power, hoping that our leaders will have the moral courage to do what is right.”

Condemns Dangerous Speech That Could Fuel Conflict

He cautioned religious and political leaders against divisive statements, warning that incendiary rhetoric could worsen tensions and threaten national unity.

“Words start wars. Every nation that has gone to war — somebody said something. We must be careful with our rhetoric so that we do not inflame the situation and cause the destabilisation of Nigeria. That will benefit no one.”

Calls for Urgent Government Action as Killings Persist

Expressing concern over continued violence and displacement in Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, and parts of the North-East, Rev. Oye described the situation as unacceptable and demanded coordinated response measures to protect communities.

He appealed to religious leaders across all faiths to unite in promoting peace and supporting initiatives that enhance national cohesion.

“We can’t deny that people are being killed — it’s happening. But as the religious community, our prayers will be with the government. We will continue to pray for them to have the courage to do what is right and to protect the unity of our nation.”

Rev. Oye’s remarks drew strong resonance from attendees at the media briefing, which attracted both local and international media, reinforcing growing appeals for accountable leadership, strategic security reforms, and collective responsibility to safeguard Nigeria’s stability.

Residents Hail Wike’s Sweeping Infrastructure Drive in FCT

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Residents Hail Wike’s Sweeping Infrastructure Drive in FCT

A coalition of former NYSC members who served in the FCT between 1998 and 2000 has praised FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for delivering “unprecedented” road expansion, housing upgrades, and urban renewal across the territory’s six area councils.

In a commendation letter signed by Cabul Network Director General Chijioke Nwachukwu and Secretary Matthew Eguche, the group hailed Wike’s “holistic and simultaneous” attention to infrastructure, including new area council roads and railway stations.

“Every sector is advancing at once—a clear mark of your dedication,” the Network declared, pledging full loyalty to the administration.

The group condemned critics as “naysayers” and urged Wike to stay focused, backed by President Bola Tinubu’s support.

“We stand with you on this journey of progress and remain optimistic for a modern, functional capital,” the letter concluded.

FCT Fire Service Saves 69 Lives, ₦14.4bn in 10 Months

Toyin Adebayo
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0
FCT Fire Service Saves 69 Lives, ₦14.4bn in 10 Months

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Fire Service saved 69 lives and property valued at more than ₦14.4 billion between January and October 2025, its Controller, Engr. Adebayo Amiola Zacchaeus, announced on Tuesday.

Speaking at a press conference marking the Service’s 23rd anniversary at its Abuja headquarters, Zacchaeus said the agency responded to 338 fire incidents and nine rescue operations during the period. Despite these efforts, 19 lives were lost and property worth ₦6.07 billion destroyed.

Zacchaeus credited the achievements to the dedication of officers and stronger partnerships with stakeholders and residents. “We honour our serving and retired personnel for their professionalism and sacrifice, as well as the fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price,” he said.

However, he highlighted critical challenges, including an aging fleet of firefighting trucks operating beyond their lifespan, with maintenance costs now unsustainable. Manpower shortages were also flagged, as the Service struggles to keep pace with the FCT’s rapid growth.

To improve response times, Zacchaeus called for new fire stations in Wuse, Guzape, Mpape, Jikwoyi, Orozo, Karshi, Karsana, Idu, Karimo, and Lugbe.

He described the Service as a multidisciplinary institution staffed by engineers, architects, planners, accountants, medical personnel, lawyers, and security experts—positioning it to meet global standards.

With the dry season approaching, Zacchaeus urged residents to avoid open fires, refuse burning, and improper handling of electrical appliances. The Service, he said, will intensify public awareness campaigns across communities, estates, and institutions.

He praised FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for supporting new fire stations under construction in Kaura, Utako, Mbora, and Gaduwa, alongside improved road access. Still, he appealed for sustained funding amid rising diesel prices and vehicle upkeep costs, which now run into millions monthly.

Zacchaeus thanked the media for promoting fire safety and accurate coverage of the Service’s work, calling journalists “indispensable allies.”

Established in 2002, the FCT Fire Service remains a cornerstone of public safety in the nation’s capital.

China Won’t Dictate U.S. Policy on Nigeria: Riley Moore Fires Back at Beijing

Ola Akinola
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China Won’t Dictate U.S. Policy on Nigeria: Riley Moore Fires Back at Beijing

In a blistering rebuke that has ignited fresh trans-Pacific tensions, U.S. Rep. Riley M. Moore (R-W.Va.) declared Tuesday that “China will not dictate our foreign policy” after Beijing warned Washington against military intervention in Nigeria over what the Trump administration calls a “Christian genocide.”

Moore, a 38-year-old Catholic freshman who rode Trump’s 2024 coattails to flip West Virginia’s 2nd District, posted the statement on X at 9:00 p.m. ET—exactly 24 hours after Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning accused the U.S. of “wanton threats” and “interference” in Nigeria’s sovereignty.

“President Trump is absolutely right to defend our brothers and sisters in Christ who are suffering horrific persecution, and even martyrdom, for their faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” Moore wrote. “China will not dictate our foreign policy to us, and we will not be lectured to by a Communist autocracy that recently arrested 30 Christian pastors for their faith and throws ethnic minorities in concentration camps.”

The Spark: Trump’s October 31 Ultimatum
The clash traces to Halloween night, when President Trump redesignated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) under the 1998 International Religious Freedom Act and tasked Moore and Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole (R-Okla.) with leading a congressional probe.

Trump’s Truth Social post warned: “If the killings don’t stop, we will withhold every penny of aid—and yes, guns-a-blazing military options are on the table.”

Moore’s office cites Open Doors and Aid to the Church in Need data showing 7,132 Christians killed in Nigeria in 2025 alone —an average of 35 per day—mostly by Boko Haram, ISIS-West Africa, and Fulani militias in the Middle Belt.

Since 2009, the toll exceeds 62,000 dead and 19,000 churches razed.

Beijing’s Red Line
At Tuesday’s noon briefing in Beijing, Mao Ning fired back: “The U.S. has no right to wield human rights as a weapon to intimidate a sovereign African partner. China firmly supports President Tinubu’s leadership and Nigeria’s chosen development path.”

Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs echoed the sentiment, calling Trump’s threat “regrettable” and insisting “no foreign boots will touch Nigerian soil.” Spokesperson Daniel Bwala told NewsFocus: “Independent monitors—including the U.N.—have found no evidence of state-sponsored genocide.”

Moore’s Hypocrisy Charge—and the October Arrests
Moore zeroed in on China’s own record. Between October 10-11, Public Security Bureau teams in seven provinces rounded up 29 pastors and elders of the 10,000-member Zion Church network, including founder Pastor Jin Mingri (a Peking University alumnus who studied at Fuller Seminary).

Charged with “illegal use of information networks” under new September rules banning unlicensed online preaching, the detainees remain incommunicado in Beihai No. 2 Detention Center. Five were later released; lawyers have been denied access.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the sweep on October 12, calling it “the CCP’s hostility toward Christians who reject Party interference.”

How the Night Unfolded: A Timeline

– Oct 31, 7:42 p.m. ET — Trump posts CPC designation, tags Moore and Cole. 

– Nov 3, 2:15 p.m. Abuja — Nigeria’s Senate President Godswill Akpabio calls emergency session; Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso (NNPP-Kano) accuses Moore of “colonial nostalgia.” 

– Nov 4, 12:00 p.m. Beijing — Mao Ning issues warning. 

– Nov 4, 9:00 p.m. ET — Moore drops viral X thread (4.8 million views by dawn). 

– Nov 5, 6:00 a.m. Lagos — Tinubu chairs National Security Council; military deploys 2,000 additional troops to Plateau State.

Stakes for 2026
Moore’s defiance is more than rhetoric. The House Foreign Affairs Committee, chaired by Trump loyalist Michael McCaul, is scheduled to mark up the Nigeria Religious Freedom Sanctions Act next week—mirroring Ted Cruz’s Senate bill that would freeze assets of any Nigerian official “complicit in anti-Christian violence.”

Aid at risk: $1.2 billion in annual U.S. security and health assistance, plus $800 million in counter-Boko Haram training.

Voices from the Ground
In Jos, Plateau State, Rev. Gideon Para-Mallam—whose cousin was beheaded by Fulani raiders in July—told NewsFocus via satellite phone: “We welcome any help that stops the nightly raids. But foreign troops? That could ignite wider jihad.”

In Beijing, exiled Zion pastor Sean Long warned: “China is killing the chicken to scare the monkeys. Arresting Zion signals every house church: register or vanish.”

What’s Next
Moore will testify Thursday before the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission. Sources say he’ll present satellite imagery of 47 villages torched since September and push for a U.N. peacekeeping resolution—potentially the first U.S.-led armed mission in sub-Saharan Africa since Somalia 1993.

As Moore told supporters at a Charleston rally last night: “This isn’t about empire. It’s about Easter morning versus the grave. And America still chooses resurrection.”

NewsFocus will continue to provide updates as this story develop.

Mamdani Wins NYC Mayor Race; Democrats Sweep Key Elections in Trump Era

Ola Akinola
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0
Mamdani Wins NYC Mayor Race; Democrats Sweep Key Elections in Trump Era

In a resounding rebuke to the incoming Trump administration, progressive firebrand Zohran Mamdani claimed a stunning upset victory in the New York City mayoral race late Tuesday, capping off a night of Democratic triumphs across key battlegrounds. The 34-year-old state assemblyman, a democratic socialist and vocal critic of federal overreach, will become the first Muslim mayor of the nation’s largest city—and the youngest in more than a century.

With 98% of precincts reporting, Mamdani garnered 52% of the vote, edging out independent challenger Andrew Cuomo, the former three-term governor who mounted a comeback bid with establishment backing, and Republican Curtis Sliwa, the Guardian Angels founder who leaned heavily into law-and-order messaging. Turnout surged to 68% in the five boroughs, fueled by intense national interest and a barrage of attack ads from Trump’s orbit.

The win marks the opening salvo in what Democrats hope will be a broader resistance to President-elect Donald Trump’s second term, set to begin in January after his narrow 2024 Electoral College victory. Mamdani’s campaign, built on promises of affordable housing, universal childcare, and aggressive climate action, mobilized a diverse coalition of young voters, immigrants, and labor unions—echoing the grassroots energy that propelled Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to Congress in 2018.

A Victory Speech That Lights the Path Forward

As confetti rained down in a packed Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Mamdani took the stage just after midnight, his voice steady amid cheers that drowned out the blaring hip-hop playlist curated by his team. Flanked by his wife, artist Aysha Khan, and a multiracial phalanx of supporters waving Palestinian and pride flags, the mayor-elect delivered a speech that blended defiance with optimism.

“In this moment of political darkness, New York will be the light,” Mamdani declared, his words a direct shot at Trump’s promises of mass deportations and tariff wars. He outlined a bold 100-day agenda: freezing rents on 500,000 units, launching a citywide green jobs initiative, and suing the federal government over anticipated cuts to sanctuary city funding. “We will not bend to threats from Washington,” he added, drawing roars from the crowd. “New York has always been the world’s conscience—tonight, we recommit to that sacred duty.”

The address, clocking in at 22 minutes, was a masterclass in progressive oratory, weaving personal anecdotes from his Ugandan refugee roots with policy wonkery on everything from micromobility subsidies to decriminalizing fare evasion. Polling had shown Mamdani trailing Cuomo by double digits in September, but a late surge in mail-in ballots from Queens and the Bronx—districts he has represented since 2021—flipped the script.

Trump’s Shadow Looms Large

The victory was not without its thorns. Trump, who has long viewed New York as a personal fiefdom despite his Mar-a-Lago exile, had injected himself into the race with uncharacteristic fervor. In October rallies in Staten Island and a Truth Social tirade, the president-elect warned that a Mamdani mayoralty would trigger “immediate and severe” slashes to the city’s $100 billion-plus federal lifeline, including transit grants and public health dollars. “This radical socialist will turn the Big Apple into the Rotten Apple—watch,” Trump posted last week.

Moments after networks called the race for Mamdani, Trump fired off a fresh missive on his platform: “And so it begins. NYC’s nightmare starts now. Funding? Gone. Chaos? Coming. Enjoy the show, folks!” The post, viewed over 5 million times by dawn, underscored the brewing clash between Gotham’s progressive vanguard and Trump’s MAGA machine. Mamdani’s team dismissed it as “vintage bluster,” but analysts warn of real fiscal peril: The city relies on $8 billion annually in federal aid, and Trump’s first term saw repeated attempts to claw back funds from blue strongholds.

As BBC North America editor Anthony Zurcher observes, Mamdani’s triumph is “a remarkable victory sealed by sheer audacity,” but the road ahead is treacherous. “Real challenges lie ahead—budget shortfalls, migrant surges, and a polarized council—and his successes, and failures, will be closely scrutinized by friend and foe alike.” Zurcher, who covered Mamdani’s assembly tenure, notes the mayor-elect’s DSA ties could galvanize the base but alienate moderates in a city still reeling from post-pandemic crime spikes.

A Broader Democratic Wave

Mamdani’s win was the marquee event of an off-year election cycle that saw Democrats shore up their ramparts. In Virginia, former Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam protégé and state Sen. Abigail Spanberger was projected to reclaim the governorship from Republican Glenn Youngkin, flipping the commonwealth blue with a 4-point margin in a race dominated by education funding and abortion rights. Spanberger, a former CIA officer, capitalized on Young’s stumbles over book bans and a controversial voucher push, boosting turnout among suburban women by 15% over 2021 levels.

New Jersey’s race was even more lopsided: Incumbent Democrat Phil Murphy’s handpicked successor, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, cruised to victory over GOP challenger Jack Ciattarelli with 58% of the vote. Fulop’s campaign, laser-focused on property tax relief and offshore wind expansion, neutralized Ciattarelli’s inflation jabs in a state where Democrats hold supermajorities.

Out West, California voters approved Proposition 47 by a slim 52-48 margin, authorizing an independent commission to redraw congressional districts ahead of the 2026 midterms. Critics decried the measure as a “Democrat power grab,” arguing it would entrench the party’s 40-12 House edge, but proponents hailed it as a bulwark against gerrymandering after the 2020 census battles. Early maps suggest gains in Orange and Riverside counties, potentially netting three seats for House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

How the Night Unfolded: A Timeline

  • 7:00 p.m. ET: Polls close in NYC amid unseasonably balmy 65-degree weather; first returns show Cuomo leading in Manhattan by 10 points.
  • 9:30 p.m.: Mamdani surges in outer boroughs as absentee ballots drop; Sliwa concedes on Fox News, quipping, “At least the rats will have a socialist friend.”
  • 11:15 p.m.: CNN projects Mamdani the winner; Cuomo’s camp signals a recount but sources say it’s ceremonial theater.
  • 12:05 a.m.: Victory speech electrifies Barclays; AOC tweets, “NYC just got its heart back. Let’s build, Zohran!”
  • 2:00 a.m.: Virginia and NJ calls roll in for Democrats; Prop 47 teeters before squeaking through.
  • 4:00 a.m.: Trump posts; Mamdani responds on X: “Darkness fears the light. Good morning, America.”

As dawn broke over the Hudson, Mamdani’s team decamped to Gracie Mansion for transition talks, a symbolic handover from term-limited incumbent Eric Adams, whose scandals had cratered his approval to 22%. For the new mayor, the honeymoon may be brief—Trump’s inauguration looms, and with it, the first tests of federal-city brinkmanship.

Yet in a polarized nation, Mamdani’s ascent offers a glimmer: proof that even in Trump’s America, the city that never sleeps can still dream big. NewsFocus will continue tracking the incoming administration’s response and Mamdani’s first moves in office.

US cannot send troops to Nigeria without Tinubu’s consent – Bwala

Toyin Adebayo
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0
US cannot send troops to Nigeria without Tinubu’s consent – Bwala

Presidential Adviser on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has firmly stated that the United States lacks any legal or diplomatic basis to deploy troops or conduct military operations in Nigeria without the explicit approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, warning that any such move would constitute a grave breach of Nigeria’s sovereignty.

Speaking in a BBC interview on Monday, Bwala responded directly to recent threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested American military intervention if Nigeria fails to curb alleged targeted killings of Christians.

“Nigeria is a sovereign nation,” Bwala declared. “Any form of military operation on Nigerian soil without the consent of the Federal Government is unacceptable and would amount to an infringement on our territorial integrity.”

He rejected the framing of Nigeria’s security challenges as a religious conflict, emphasizing that banditry, terrorism and communal clashes affect citizens across faith lines.

“What we are dealing with is a national security challenge that affects everyone – Muslims, Christians and others,” he said. “It should not be framed solely as a religious war.”

Bwala underscored Nigeria’s willingness to deepen security cooperation with Washington through intelligence sharing and arms procurement, provided such partnership respects international law and Nigeria’s national interest.

Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over religious freedom and his threats of potential ground operations or airstrikes have sparked widespread concern in Abuja.

The presidential aide reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity and protecting all Nigerians, while preserving mutual respect in bilateral relations with the United States.

Diplomatic sources say Abuja is quietly engaging Washington through back channels to de-escalate tensions and clarify the non-sectarian nature of the country’s security threats.

As the 2027 elections approach, the controversy risks complicating Nigeria-U.S. ties at a time when Abuja seeks enhanced military support against insurgency and banditry.

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