RAA News

  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has declared that the new tax law will take effect from January 1, 2026, despite widespread complaints from citizens, including members of the National Assembly. Many critics argue that the version of the law he signed into effect is not the same as the one approved by the lawmakers. In a statement released on Wednesday, President Tinubu emphasized that he sees no reason to halt the implementation of the law, even though some errors and discrepancies have been identified in the final document. He reassured Nigerians that the government is working to address those issues while proceeding with enforcement. According to the president, the purpose of the tax reform is not to burden citizens with additional taxes but to restructure the system for better efficiency, fairness, and national development. He stated that the reforms are meant to protect the dignity of Nigerians and enhance economic well-being. Tinubu stressed that strong tax policies a...

Federal agents in Minnesota have launched an investigation into several childcare centres following allegations made by right-wing YouTuber Nick Shirley. In a viral video, Shirley claimed that Somali-run childcare centres in the state are receiving public funds without properly providing the childcare services promised. These allegations have sparked concern and scrutiny from authorities tasked with ensuring the proper use of public money. The investigation aims to verify the validity of the claims and to determine whether any public funds have been misappropriated or if there has been negligence in the care provided by these centres. Federal and state officials are working together to review records, inspect facilities, and interview staff and parents associated with the childcare centres in question. This probe highlights the ongoing challenges of oversight in publicly funded childcare programs. Community leaders and advocates for Somali and immigrant communities have expressed worry...

Former US President Donald Trump has confirmed that the United States carried out a targeted military strike against Islamic State (ISIS) militants in northwest Nigeria. The announcement came on Christmas Day, following months of Trump’s public warnings about rising violence against Christians in the region. The airstrike, reportedly conducted with precision drones, targeted a known ISIS enclave believed to be responsible for a string of attacks on Christian communities. Trump described the operation as a necessary step to protect innocent lives and send a clear message.” Although full details of the mission remain classified, early reports suggest that the strike successfully neutralized several high-profile militants. No civilian casualties have been confirmed so far, and the Pentagon has not yet released an official statement. Trump’s move reignited debate over US military involvement in Africa, with supporters praising it as a strong stand against religious persecution, while criti...

Nicholas Svensson, CEO of Smart Technologies, has initiated a company-wide effort to connect directly with employees across the globe. In a move aimed at enhancing transparency and responsiveness, Svensson is holding regular calls with the company’s 600-plus staff members to gather firsthand insight on internal communication and management strategies. The CEO stated that these conversations help him evaluate which leadership messages are resonating and identify areas where employees believe the company should adjust its direction. By listening directly to staff feedback, Svensson hopes to foster a culture of trust and inclusivity within the tech firm. This approach marks a shift from traditional top-down corporate communication, signaling Svensson’s commitment to creating a more collaborative environment. Employees reportedly appreciate the access and opportunity to express their views directly to the top leadership. The feedback sessions are also expected to influence upcoming strateg...

On Wednesday, Christmas celebrations began in Bethlehem, the sacred town on the West Bank, despite the backdrop of ongoing conflict in Gaza. The festivities kicked off under heightened tensions and heavy security due to the war between Israel and Hamas that has gripped the region in recent months. Bethlehem, traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ, is usually flooded with thousands of pilgrims and tourists during the Christmas season. However, this year saw a sharp decline in visitors, as safety concerns and military presence overshadowed the spiritual atmosphere. Despite the situation, local churches and authorities proceeded with scaled-down celebrations, including processions, music, and religious services. Church leaders used the occasion to call for peace and unity, urging an end to the violence and suffering in Gaza and across the region. The Palestinian Authority expressed gratitude for the continued observance of the religious event, calling it a symbol of r...

  Russian authorities have confirmed that three people, including two police officers, lost their lives in an explosion that occurred in Moscow. The incident took place in a building within the city on Monday, sparking immediate emergency response. According to initial reports, the explosion happened during a police operation, although details about the cause remain under investigation. Russian officials have not yet ruled out the possibility of foul play or terrorism, but are exploring multiple leads. Eyewitnesses described a loud blast followed by heavy smoke and the arrival of security forces. Nearby buildings were evacuated as a precaution, and an area lockdown was enforced to secure the site. The third person killed was reportedly a civilian who may have been inside the building at the time. Several others were injured and are currently receiving treatment. Authorities say a full investigation is underway, and President Vladimir Putin has been briefed on the incident. Security...

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a pill form of Wegovy, a widely used weight-loss medication originally available only by injection. This development offers a more convenient alternative for millions of Americans seeking to manage obesity and related health issues. Wegovy, made by Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which mimics a hormone that targets areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation. The injectable form has gained massive popularity in recent years, contributing to significant weight loss in patients. With the pill version now approved, patients who prefer not to use injections will have access to the same clinically proven benefits in oral form. Experts say this could broaden access and compliance, especially for those who are uncomfortable with needles. The approval comes as obesity rates in the U.S. continue to rise, posing long-term health and economic challenges. Medical profess...

The United States government has immediately paused leases for several large‑scale offshore wind energy projects currently under construction off the Atlantic coastline, citing unresolved national security concerns. The move was announced on Monday by the Department of the Interior, which said the action affects five major wind projects as federal agencies assess potential risks to defense operations.  The suspension targets key offshore wind farms that were underway or near completion, including Vineyard Wind 1 off Massachusetts, Revolution Wind between Rhode Island and Connecticut, Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind, and New York’s Sunrise Wind and Empire Wind 1 projects. These leases, involving billions of dollars in investment and thousands of planned turbines, are now on hold as authorities review classified national security assessments.  According to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, the pause is intended to address concerns raised by the Department of War, which warned that ...

The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) held its National Convention in Abuja yesterday, drawing party stakeholders, delegates, and leaders from across the country. The event, observed by officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), marked a key moment in the party’s internal democratic process. During the convention, Dr. Ahmed Ajuji was elected as the new National Chairman, while Mr. Dipo Olayoku emerged as the National Secretary. Other key national executive positions were filled unopposed, signaling unity and consensus within the party’s leadership ranks. Former Kano State governor and party stalwart Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso (RMK), who was in attendance, expressed satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the convention. He congratulated the newly elected executives and encouraged them to uphold the values and principles of the NNPP. Kwankwaso emphasized the importance of discipline, loyalty, and focus as the party continues to position itself as a major poli...

As the festive period approaches, millions across the UK are preparing to take advantage of the upcoming bank holidays, including Christmas Day (25 December), Boxing Day (26 December), and New Year’s Day (1 January). Additionally, Scotland will enjoy an extra day off on 2 January, providing residents with a rare four-day national holiday stretch. These holidays are expected to see a surge in domestic travel, shopping, and family gatherings. Transportation authorities are urging travellers to plan ahead, with rail strikes, adverse weather, and high demand potentially causing disruptions. Retailers are also preparing for an influx of last-minute shoppers and post-Christmas sale hunters, with extended hours and crowd management plans in place. Financial experts are encouraging households to use the holidays not just for celebration but also for planning and budgeting. With the cost of living remaining high, families are being advised to spend wisely and take advantage of sales responsibly...

 A Human Resources executive has spoken out about the intense fallout she faced after being caught on camera hugging her boss during a Coldplay concert. The clip, which quickly went viral on social media, sparked widespread speculation about their relationship and led to relentless online scrutiny. The woman, who has chosen to remain anonymous publicly but gave statements through legal representation, said she has been subjected to continuous harassment  both online and offline  since the footage spread. According to her, the moment was innocent and taken out of context, but viewers rushed to judge, triggering a storm of negative comments and personal attacks. In interviews, she revealed that the viral fame disrupted her professional life, damaged her mental health, and even strained relationships with friends and family. Despite explaining the nature of the hug  described as a spontaneous gesture of excitement during the performance  the assumptions made online...

A French anaesthetist, Frédéric Péchier, has been sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of intentionally poisoning 30 patients, 12 of whom died, during surgical procedures over several years. The court in Besançon, eastern France, ruled that Péchier had deliberately tampered with patients' anaesthesia or medication to induce cardiac arrest, only to later intervene and attempt to "save" them an act prosecutors described as a disturbing quest for heroism. The incidents took place between 2008 and 2017 at two clinics where he worked. Péchier denied all charges, claiming he was a scapegoat, but the evidence against him included tampered infusion bags, unusual spikes in cardiac incidents during his shifts, and witness testimonies from colleagues. Several of the victims were healthy individuals undergoing routine procedures when they suddenly went into cardiac arrest. Prosecutors painted a chilling picture of a doctor who played with lives, putting patients in li...

  Sydney police have formally charged Naveed Akram, the lone surviving suspect in the mass shooting that shocked Bondi Beach on Sunday, with 59 serious offences. Among them are 15 counts of murder and one count of committing a terrorist act, according to an official statement released by New South Wales Police on Monday. The charges follow a tragic incident in which at least 15 people lost their lives and more than a dozen others were injured when gunfire erupted in one of Australia’s most popular coastal destinations. Authorities have described the attack as one of the deadliest in the country’s recent history and are treating it as an act of terrorism pending further investigation. Akram, who was apprehended after a brief standoff with police, is believed to have acted alone. Investigators say they found evidence of premeditation, including online materials and weapons caches linked to the suspect. The police also confirmed that the shooter had a known history of extremist sympat...

In a surprising legal development, court documents filed in Florida reportedly show the President of the United States accusing the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) of defamation and alleged violations of trade practices law. The filing, which has yet to be confirmed by the White House or the BBC, has sparked immediate interest from legal and media analysts globally. According to the alleged documents, the President claims that the BBC aired or published content that he considers “damaging and intentionally misleading,” though specifics of the broadcast or publication in question have not been publicly disclosed. The accusations also include assertions that the broadcaster violated U.S. trade practices by interfering with political discourse and public perception in a way the complaint labels as "economically harmful." Legal experts say it is extremely rare for a sitting U.S. president to file defamation claims against an international media outlet, especially a public ...

Sydney, Australia – Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described the tragic Bondi Beach shooting as a “dark day in Australia’s history on what should have been a day of light,” during a somber press briefing held in the aftermath of the deadly attack. The shooting, which occurred at a popular shopping center near Bondi Beach, claimed the lives of at least ten people, including the gunman, and left over a dozen others injured. The incident has shocked the nation, as such mass violence is rare in Australia, a country known for its strict gun control laws. Albanese expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and commended emergency services for their swift response. “This senseless act of violence has left communities grieving. Our hearts go out to every person affected by this horror,” he stated. The Prime Minister emphasized national unity and resilience in the face of tragedy. “This is a moment of mourning, but also a moment to reflect on how we stand together...

SYDNEY  A tragic shooting incident rocked Australia’s Bondi Beach on Saturday, leaving 10 people dead  including one of the suspected gunmen  and at least 12 others injured, authorities confirmed. Police responded to emergency calls around midday after multiple gunshots were reported near the Westfield Bondi Junction shopping centre, close to the popular beach area. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as shoppers and tourists scrambled for cover during what is being described as one of the worst mass shootings in Australia in recent years. Two suspects are now in custody, according to New South Wales Police, who say that one gunman died at the scene. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and a full investigation is underway. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of terrorism, though early reports suggest it may be an isolated incident. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed deep shock and offered condolences to the victims’ families, call...

Britain’s King Charles III has shared encouraging news regarding his health, revealing that his cancer treatment is expected to be scaled back in early 2025. The announcement marks a significant milestone in the monarch’s recovery since he was first diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer earlier in the year. According to Buckingham Palace sources, the King’s medical team has been “very pleased” with his response to treatment. Regular assessments have shown steady improvement, prompting doctors to consider reducing the intensity or frequency of treatment in the coming months. King Charles, 76, has maintained a limited schedule of public duties during his illness but has continued to oversee key constitutional roles and meet regularly with government officials. His resilience and continued engagement have been praised by both the public and political leaders. In a recent statement, the King expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received from the public, acknowledg...

  A former US special forces veteran involved in the covert extraction of Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel laureate María Corina Machado has pleaded with her not to return to her home country, citing the extreme danger she narrowly escaped. The dramatic operation, described as a 16-hour mission, involved moving Machado under cover of darkness through rough coastal waters. According to reports, the rescue team operated largely at night, navigating treacherous terrain and waters to evade government surveillance and checkpoints. The mission was reportedly launched due to escalating threats against Machado, who has been a leading figure in Venezuela's opposition movement and a vocal critic of President Nicolás Maduro. Machado, who was under increasing pressure and surveillance from Venezuelan authorities, had refused to leave the country for months despite numerous risks. However, her growing international profile  especially after receiving the Nobel Peace Prize  led t...

  Bangkok, Thailand Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has officially dissolved Thailand’s parliament following several days of escalating clashes along the country’s eastern border with Cambodia, marking a critical moment of political and regional tension. The move sets the stage for a general election to be held within the next 45 to 60 days, in line with Thailand’s constitutional requirements. The announcement came after nearly a week of renewed violence in disputed border zones, with reports of artillery fire, troop mobilization, and civilian evacuations from affected provinces. Although both governments have accused each other of provocation, diplomatic channels remain open, and regional observers are urging restraint. Prime Minister Anutin stated that dissolving the House of Representatives was necessary to “restore national unity” and “return the mandate to the people” amid growing internal pressure over his government’s handling of border security and military readiness. Th...

  Seattle, WA The aviation industry is once again under intense scrutiny following a shocking mid-flight incident involving an off-duty pilot who allegedly tried to shut down a plane's engines midair. The man, identified as Joseph Emerson, told authorities he had taken psychedelic mushrooms two days prior and hadn’t slept for over 40 hours, citing emotional distress following the death of a close friend. The incident occurred on an Alaska Airlines flight en route from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco, where Emerson was riding in the cockpit jump seat. According to court documents, he suddenly attempted to pull two fire suppression handles a move that would have cut fuel to the engines but was restrained by the flight crew before any damage could be done. In interviews with investigators, Emerson said he believed he was in a dream and wanted to "wake up." He also admitted to being under the influence of psychedelics and having a mental health crisis, not realizing the...

Zohran Mamdani is making history again not just by becoming New York City’s next mayor, but also by moving from his humble rent-stabilized apartment in Astoria to the iconic Gracie Mansion. After weeks of speculation, Mamdani confirmed that he and his wife Rama Duwaji will settle into the historic residence once he takes office on January 1, 2026. For a leader who ran on a platform of housing justice and affordability, the move marks a major lifestyle change. But Mamdani says the decision wasn’t about luxury  it was about security, efficiency, and having the space to fully commit to his role as mayor. The historic mansion will now become home to one of the city’s most progressive leaders in recent memory. Gracie Mansion, a 200+ year-old estate nestled in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, has long served as the official mayoral residence. While some may see a contrast between Mamdani’s political ideals and the grandeur of Gracie, others view the move as a practical step  one that al...

Burkina Faso has accused Nigeria of violating its sovereign airspace after a Nigerian military aircraft made an emergency landing in the city of Bobo Dioulasso. The aircraft, a C-130 belonging to the Nigerian Air Force, reportedly entered Burkinabe airspace without prior clearance, prompting immediate diplomatic and military reactions from the Sahel nation .   In a joint statement issued by the Alliance of Sahel States which includes Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger officials described the incident as an "unfriendly act." The alliance announced that its air and anti-aircraft defenses have been placed on high alert, with authorization to neutralize any future unauthorized aircraft entering their territory.   The Nigerian government has yet to issue a full statement, but early reports suggest the aircraft experienced technical issues during a flight over the region, forcing it to make an emergency landing. Despite the emergency nature of the incident, Burkina Faso insists ...

  In a significant development following one of Nigeria’s largest mass abductions in recent years, security forces have successfully rescued about 100 students who were kidnapped from a Catholic boarding school earlier this week. The incident, which occurred in the northwestern region of Nigeria, had sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns over the country’s persistent insecurity crisis.   According to local officials, the students were freed after a coordinated operation involving military and police units. While the rescue mission is being hailed as a success, authorities have confirmed that at least 115 students remain unaccounted for, and efforts are ongoing to locate and recover the rest. Families of the missing children continue to gather outside the school, anxiously awaiting news.   The kidnapping took place during a late-night raid when armed assailants stormed the school premises, overpowered security, and forced hundreds of students into nearby ...

  China's trade surplus unexpectedly widened in November, offering a mixed picture of the country’s economic health. Official data shows a surplus of $68.4 billion, with exports falling slightly but imports making a surprise rebound. Exports dropped by 0.5% compared to last year, continuing a downward trend as global demand weakens  especially in major markets like the U.S. and Europe. But imports rose by 2.8%, suggesting early signs of recovery in China’s domestic economy, helped by recent government stimulus. Experts see this as a cautiously positive sign. Rising imports of raw materials may point to growing manufacturing activity, while stronger local demand shows that consumer confidence might be picking up after a sluggish year. Still, challenges remain. Global tensions, supply chain shifts, and China’s ongoing post-pandemic transition continue to cloud the outlook. Officials say there’s a growing push to reduce dependence on exports by strengthening domestic consumption ...

  Big shifts are underway in North America’s approach to global academic talent. The U.S. is considering a major visa policy change, while Canada is making one of its largest research investments ever  all in a bid to attract the world’s brightest minds. A new U.S. proposal, the DIGNITY Act of 2025, aims to drop the long-standing “intent to leave” rule for F-1 student visas. If passed, it would mean international students no longer have to prove they plan to leave the U.S. after graduation  a huge change that could reshape how students choose where to study. Meanwhile, Canada is going full steam ahead. The country just launched the Canada Global Impact+ Research Talent Initiative, a C1.7 billion plan to recruit up to 1,000 top global researchers over the next 12 years. The funding includes C1 billion for recruitment and C$400 million for upgrading research infrastructure, plus support for emerging scientists and doctoral researchers. These moves come at a time when many a...

In a bold move to cement its place as a global research powerhouse, Canada has launched the Canada Global Impact+ Research Talent Initiative  C1.7 billion, 12-year plan to bring up to 1,000 elite international and expatriate researchers into the country’s universities and institutions. The ambitious program dedicates C1 billion to directly recruit top-tier scientists, with C400 million allocated for infrastructure upgrades. Additional funding will also support doctoral and postdoctoral students, along with early-career researchers  aiming to build a strong pipeline of innovation from the ground up. The timing is strategic. As academic landscapes shift  especially in the U.S. many scholars are reconsidering their options abroad. Canada sees an opportunity, and institutions are already gearing up, with some high-profile names reportedly preparing to relocate ahead of the next academic year. Government officials say this investment is about more than recruitment  it’s a...

  The Gambian Delegate Participates in International Model OIC Conference in Istanbul, Focused on Justice for Palestine Istanbul, Turkey  A young Gambian delegate is currently participating in the International Model OIC Conference held in Istanbul under the central theme: "Justice for Palestine, Resistance Against Oppression." The event serves as a critical platform for youth across the Muslim world to simulate high-level diplomacy and address pressing issues confronting the Ummah, with a special focus on the Palestinian struggle. The conference, hosted since 2018, is organized by Beyoğlu Anatolian Imam Hatip High School, under the supervision of the Beyoğlu Education and Culture Foundation (BECF) and in collaboration with the Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum (ICYF). It replicates the workings of the Islamic Summit and Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) the world’s second-largest intergovernmental organization after the United Nation...

The Federal Government has launched a new national campaign to encourage Nigerians to demonstrate patriotism by displaying good character, integrity, and engaging in activities that contribute to the country’s development on a daily basis. The Minister of Information and Publicity, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, launched the programme, themed “My Nigeria, My Character”, on Monday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The campaign, spearheaded by the Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Citizenship and Leadership, aims to revive the spirit of patriotism towards the country, emphasizing that everyone has a role to play in building Nigeria’s reputation, development, and democratic process. Speaking on behalf of the President, the Minister described patriotism as an “active verb”, saying it is expressed through good conduct, paying taxes, avoiding spreading false news, and being committed to the development of the country. “True patriotism is...

  The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has handed over 100 students of St. Mary Catholic School, Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of ​​Niger State, to the state government after they were rescued from kidnappers. The handover took place in Minna on Monday, where Wing Cdr. Abdullahi Idi Hong represented the NSA in presenting them to the state government. Hong said the rescue followed weeks of intense joint operations by the NSA, DSS, the Nigerian Army and other security agencies. He said the DSS played a “significant physical role” in the operation that ensured the safe return of the children. He added that the NSA has initiated emergency security measures in the affected areas, in collaboration with state governments, traditional and religious leaders to create a sustainable security system. Hong stressed that the federal government will continue to implement policies aimed at ensuring security in schools and protecting the right of every child to a safe educ...

  A group of pro-democracy activists, Action Advocate for Democracy and Good Governance, has called on the Kano State Commissioner of Police to be arrested along with the team led by Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje over the attempt to establish an independent Hisbah Commission in Kano State. The group, led by Rabi'u Usman, expressed their displeasure over the attempt by Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje to establish an independent Hisbah security force. The group added that Ganduje deserves to be imprisoned for reaping what he has sown. "This is a terrorist act and an attempt to incite conflict and strife in Kano State" Ganduje should stop thinking like a child, he should think like an adult as an elder. And the former governor who spent eight years in power. But Ganduje has no intention of doing anything until he sees Kano in chaos and unrest. The man who was caught red-handed putting dollars in his pockets and accused of some financial irregularities that forced him to resign from hi...

Storm Bram - named by Met Eireann, Ireland's equivalent of the Met Office - develops rapidly on Tuesday, moving north to the west of the UK but bringing heavy rain and strengthening winds for all. The strongest winds will be around Irish Sea coasts and up to the north-west of Scotland where severe gales are possible later on Tuesday. A Met Office amber warning for wind, valid from 16:00 to 23:59 BST Tuesday covers north-west Scotland where gusts of up to 90mph (144km/h) are possible for a few locations. Impacts will include delays and cancellations to some of the transport network as well as damage to some buildings. Yellow warnings have also been issued. The first comes into force across west Wales and south-west England from 22:00 Monday to 16:00 BST Tuesday with wind gusts widely 40-50mph (64-80km/h). But additionally, yellow warnings will cover Northern Ireland from 09:00 to 21:00 GMT on Tuesday and much of Scotland and north-west England from 12:00 Tuesday to 06:00 GMT on Wedn...

  Captain Ben Stokes questioned his England players' mentality after their crushing defeat by Australia in the second Test, saying his dressing room is "not a place for weak men". Though England showed some fight on day four, they were thrashed by eight wickets in Brisbane to go 2-0 down in the five-match Ashes series. Read:  Benin Coup Attempt Foiled By Loyalist Troops Stokes denied England's problems are down to skill and instead questioned why they have been unable to capitalise on key moments. "Do we need to start thinking about what mentality we are taking into those pressure moments?" Stokes said.

  The government of Benin says it has foiled a coup attempt by members of the West African nation's armed forces. "The Beninese armed forces and their leadership, true to their oath, remained committed to the republic," Interior Minister Alassane Seidou said in a televised address. Earlier on Sunday, a group of soldiers made a broadcast saying they had ousted President Patrice Talon. Eyewitnesses told the BBC that they had heard gunshots and some journalists working for the state broadcaster were held hostage. A presidential adviser has since told the BBC the president is in a safe location.