What If Okpaleke Emerges The Next Pope?

Fred Nwaozor

The last time I checked, the global community had once again been faced with yet another moment of electing a new Roman Catholic Pontiff, as Pope Francis peacefully takes a bow. While the world, in its entirety, mourns the peaceful and glorious exit of Pope Francis, who was of Argentina extraction, many are equally in sober mood as regards who becomes his successor. This signifies that the Catholic faithful across the globe are presently faced with mixed feelings.

It's noteworthy that a Nigerian, in the person of Cardinal Peter Ebere Okpaleke, is the only cleric among the four living cardinals of Nigeria extraction, eligible to cast a vote in the forthcoming Papal Conclave in Rome targeted to elect a new Pope for the universal Roman Catholic Church. This means, he can also be elected, or has the chances of emerging the next pontiff.

Under the current canon law, only cardinals under the age of 80 are permitted to vote in a papal election, hence making Cardinal Okpaleke - who is currently 62 years old - qualified to participate in the yet epochal ritual. As a matter of fact, he is Nigeria's sole elector among the country's cardinals.

Let's delve into the memory lane. In 1987, prior to the emergence of Pope JohnPaul II, Cardinal Dominic Ignatius Ekandem (born 1917), now of the blessed memory, was the only cardinal elector of Nigeria extraction. He was then 70 years old.

Subsequently, before the appointment of Pope Benedict XVI in 2005, Cardinals Francis Arinze (born 1932) and Anthony Olubunmi Okogie (born 1936) were both eligible Nigerian cardinal electors. They were 73 and 69 years old, respectively.

Then, in 2013, towards the election of Pope Francis, Cardinals Anthony Olubunmi Okogie and John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan (born 1944) were both qualified cardinal electors among the then three living cardinals of Nigerian extraction. They were respectively 77 and 69-year-old clerics.

Now, in 2025, Cardinal Okpaleke (born 1963), who precisely hails from Amesi, Aguata LGA in Anambra State, is among the 135 'Princes of the Church' (cardinal electors) worldwide who are set to cast their votes in the awaited conclave, which takes place on May 7, 2025 in Vatican city, Rome.

He was created a cardinal by Pope Francis on August 27, 2022, and holds the title of Cardinal-Priest of Ss. Martiri dell'Uganda a Poggio Ameno, and currently serves as the Bishop of Ekwulobia in Anambra State, Nigeria.

Many of us may have forgotten about the history of Cardinal Okpaleke in respect of his ongoing successful missionary journey. Let's digress a bit.

Cardinal Peter Okpaleke was appointed as the Bishop of the Mater Ecclesiae Cathedral of the Catholic Diocese of Ahiara in Mbaise on December 7, 2012, by Pope Benedict XVI. Amidst controversies that surrounded his appointment, he was eventually consecrated as a bishop under the reign of Pope Francis on May 21, 2013 amid tight security, at the Seat of Wisdom Seminary, Ulakwo in Owerri North LGA, which is situated outside the Ahiara Diocese, with Archbishop Anthony J.V. Obinna serving as the principal consecrator. It was reportedly first in history, seeing a prospective bishop being consecrated at a locality situated outside the diocese he was meant to oversee.

However, due to the opposition that ensued ab initio from some members of the clergy and laity in the Ahiara Diocese, Bishop Okpaleke was afterwards unable to take canonical possession of the diocese. This led to his resignation, which was later accepted by Pope Francis on February 19, 2018.

Subsequently, on March 5, 2020, Pope Francis established the Diocese of Ekwulobia and appointed Bishop Okpaleke as its first bishop. He was installed in this position on April 29, 2020, prior to his creation (appointment) as a cardinal in 2022.

The intriguing politics and melodrama that played out in Ahiara Diocese during the period in review isn't something to be forgotten in a hurry, even if one is suffering from amnesia.

The Papacy under the watch of Pope Benedict XVI had upon the demise of Bishop Victor Chikwe, the pioneer bishop of Mater Ecclesiae Cathedral, approved Rev. Okpalaeke to serve as the bishop of the diocese. But his appointment was outrightly rejected by virtually every Catholic faithful in the Ahiara Diocese, saying the priest lacked the needed qualities to super-head the diocese.

One of their reasons was that Rev. Okpalaeke does not hail from the 'Mbaise nation'. According to them, it was a grievous blunder for the Pope not to find anyone among over 700 Catholic priests of Mbaise origin worthy to serve as the bishop of the Ahiara Diocese. They equally lamented that the cleric could not speak a dialect relevant to the members of the diocese, hence should not be consecrated to lead them.

It was mind-boggling and indeed ridiculous to realize that the religious extremism, which could best be described as amusing and irrational, wasn’t only ignited and fueled by the laity council in the diocese but rather has the full support of most of the Catholic priests from the area who were expected to be more informed regarding the Church norms and doctrines. The rest is history, please.

The Princes of the Church, as the cardinal electors are fondly called, who are 135 in number are now scheduled to meet next week Wednesday, being 7th May, 2025, at the Sistine Chapel in Vatican towards electing a new pontiff to lead the Holy See. This is a very critical and sensitive period for the Catholic faithful across the world, thus signifying a deep sober moment.

We are therefore expected to watch and pray while anxiously awaiting the outcome of the conclave. As we observe this, we ought to bear in mind that a black man, particularly Nigerian, has once again been faced with the chances of emerging as the next leader of the Catholic congregation worldwide. In all, discerning mindsets only seek the will of the Supreme being to intervene.

In view of the above, Cardinal Peter Ebere Okpaleke, who has hitherto appeared to be a God's chosen one, may once again be chosen from above to occupy the highest and greatest position in his priesthood career. Think about it.

Nwaozor, a veteran analyst & activist, can be reached via frednwaozor@gmail.com

T.D. Jakes to step down as Potter's House Head Pastor

The renowned American pastor and leader of Potter's House Church, Bishop T.D. Jakes has announced he would be stepping down and handing leadership of the non-denominational Christian church to his daughter and her husband.

On Sunday, April 27, 2025, during church service, Jakes, who is currently 67 years old, announced that his daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and son-in-law, Touré Roberts, would take over the church, which he founded in 1996.

He made the announcement during an emotional sermon, where he asked the congregation to welcome their new pastors with open arms.

"This is legacy," Jakes said. "Not because they are kin, but because they are the kind. They have immersed themselves into the DNA of this church for years."

The pastor said that while he is stepping down from his current role, he wants to continue doing work with the community.

However, Jakes disclosed afterwards, on his social media handle, that he would remain part of the Church’s Board of Directors after handing over to his daughter and her spouse, which is billed to officially take place in July, 2025.

"I'm grateful, I'm honoured," Jakes daughter said as she was called on to the stage. "As your daughter, I'm so happy you're going to get some rest."

The change comes after Jakes suffered from a heart attack on stage in November, 2024.

T.D. Jakes and wife

In a video posted online, Jakes was seen pausing during his hour-long sermon, before shaking suddenly as other church members gathered around him. He was then rushed to an intensive care unit.

A week after the "slight health incident," he spoke to his congregation remotely and told them that they were "looking at a miracle."

Jakes has been in the ministry for 47 years, and has reportedly advised many high-profile individuals, including the last three presidents. He is also a best-selling author and award-winning filmmaker.

He has been happily married with his wife, Serita Jakes, for over 40 years. The couple is blessed with five children.

The bishop has made headlines having being a longtime spiritual mentor to Sean "Diddy" Combs, the record executive who was indicted for sex trafficking and other federal charges.

Sarah Jakes Roberts and spouse

Her daughter, the incoming Head pastor, Sarah Jakes Roberts, is a New York Times best-selling author and CEO of Women Evolve, where she hosts a conference each year that focuses on women's empowerment through faith and draws thousands of people across the globe. The event this year will be held in Atlanta in July and is already sold out.

She and her husband, Touré Roberts, are both co-pastors at ONE: a Potter's House Church in Los Angeles and Potter's House of Denver.

Roberts is also a bestselling author, entrepreneur, investor, producer, humanitarian, and podcast host.

The couple has been married since November 2014, which marks their second marriage. They both reportedly have previous failed marriages.

Together, the two have five children from their previous marriages and a sixth child together.

FN Blog

Cardinals to convene May 7 for Papal Conclave

Catholic cardinals will convene on May 7, 2025 to begin voting for a new pope, the Vatican made the announcement on Monday, April 28, 2025, a week after the demise of Pope Francis.

The “Princes of the Church” under the age of 80 will gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new spiritual leader for the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.

The date was decided during a meeting of cardinals of all ages early on Monday, two days after the funeral of Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday April 21, 2025 at the age of 88.

The Church’s 252 cardinals were summoned back to Rome following the Argentine’s death, although only 135 are eligible to vote in the papal conclave.

The cardinals hail from all corners of the globe, and many of them are unfamiliar with one another.

However, they have already held four meetings last week, known as “general congregations”, where they began to acquaint themselves better.

The “Princes of the Church” under the age of 80 will gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new spiritual leader for the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.

The date was decided during a meeting of cardinals of all ages early on Monday, two days after the funeral of Francis, who passed away on 21 April at the age of 88. The Church’s 252 cardinals were summoned to Rome following the Argentine’s death, although only 135 are eligible to vote in the conclave.

The cardinals hail from all corners of the globe, and many of them are unfamiliar with one another.

However, they have already held four meetings last week, known as “general congregations”, where they began to acquaint themselves better.

Cardinal Gualtiero Bassetti, 83, a former head of the Italian bishops’ conference, described the atmosphere as “beautiful and fraternal”.

“Of course, there may be some difficulties because the voters have never been so numerous, and not everyone knows each other,” he told Italy’s Corriere della Sera newspaper. On Monday, the Vatican closed the Sistine Chapel, where voting will take place under Michelangelo’s 16th-century ceiling frescoes, to commence preparations.

So far, there are few indications as to whom the cardinals might choose.

“I believe that if Francis has been the pope of surprises, this conclave will be too, as it is not at all predictable,” Spanish Cardinal Jose Cobo said in in an interview on Sunday.

Francis was laid to rest on Saturday with a funeral and burial ceremony that drew 400,000 people to St Peter’s Square and beyond, including royalty, world leaders, and ordinary pilgrims.

On Sunday, approximately 70,000 mourners filed past his marble tomb in the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome, after the “pope of the poor” opted to be buried outside the Vatican’s walls.

Amid conflicts and diplomatic crises around the world, Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who served as secretary of state — the pope’s second-in-command — under Pope Francis, is considered by many to be the favourite to succeed him.

British bookmakers William Hill have placed him slightly ahead of Filipino Luis Antonio Tagle, the Metropolitan Archbishop Emeritus of Manila, followed by Ghana’s Cardinal Peter Turkson.

Next in their odds are Matteo Zuppi, the Archbishop of Bologna; Guinea’s Cardinal Robert Sarah; and Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem.

While Pope Francis’s efforts to create a more compassionate Church earned him widespread affection and respect, some of his reforms angered the Church’s conservative wing, particularly in the United States and Africa. Roberto Regoli, a professor of Church history and culture at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, told the press that the cardinals would be seeking “someone who knows how to forge greater unity”.

“We are in a period in which Catholicism is experiencing various polarisations, so I don’t imagine it will be a very, very quick conclave,” he said.

Bassetti, who is too old to participate, expressed his belief that it “will not be long”.

Approximately 80 per cent of the cardinal electors were appointed by Pope Francis — though this does not guarantee they will select a successor in his likeness.

Most are relatively young, and for many, this will be their first conclave. The vote is highly secretive and adheres to strict rules and ceremonial procedures. The process could take several days or potentially longer.

There are four votes per day — two in the morning and two in the afternoon — until one candidate secures a two-thirds majority.

Fewer than half of those eligible to vote are European.

“The future pope must have a universal heart, love all the continents. We must not look at colour, at origin, but at what is proposed,” Cardinal Dieudonne Nzapalainga from the Central African Republic told the Italian newspaper Il Messaggero.

“We need a courageous leader, a bold one, capable of speaking forcefully, of holding the helm of the Church steady even in storms… offering stability in an era of great uncertainty.”

Patrizia Spotti, a 68-year-old Italian visiting Rome for the 2026 Jubilee holy year, told AFP on Monday that she hoped the new pontiff “will be a pope like Francis”.

It is a challenging time for Catholicism, she said.

“Churches are empty. And the Church itself has made mistakes, all the scandals with the children,” she said, referring to the widespread revelations of clerical sexual abuse.

FN Blog

JAMB warns Against Misinformation, pledges Financial Reward for Proof

The Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has warned the public over posting of misleading and false information.

This is coming after receiving myriad of statements on the social media where some canditates or parents claimed they (or their wards) were posted to outside the exam towns they chose during registration.

In the Board’s public memo released on April 26, 2025, signed by its Public Communication Advisor, Fabian Benjamin, it further pledges financial reward to anyone who presents a proof of such claim.

Though a certain amount was not mentioned, it described the proposed award as 'handsome'.

The notice is as given below:

"JAMB WARNS AGAINST MISINFORMATION: OFFERS FINANCIAL REWARD FOR PROOF OF POSTING OUTSIDE CHOSEN EXAM TOWN

It is our firm belief that some parents are continually being deceived, misled and duped by their own wards and some secondary school proprietors who continue to propagate the falsehood that JAMB assigns candidates to examination centres outside their chosen examination towns.

Let it be unequivocally clear: at the time of registration, candidates have the right to select their preferred examination town. JAMB subsequently assigns them to a centre within that chosen town. The baseless assertion that candidates are placed in towns different from their selections is erroneous, malicious and aimed solely at tarnishing the Board’s reputation. It never happens.

JAMB acknowledges the importance of convenience for candidates, ensuring they sit for their examinations in locations of their choice among available CBT centres. Every candidate has the prerogative to choose their examination town, while JAMB only assigns the candidate within the chosen town.

The Board therefore challenges this false but popular narrative by offering a handsome financial reward to any one person who can provide authentic proof of just one candidate who is posted outside the chosen town of the candidate.

For transparency and not “being a judge in one’s case.” Such proof should within the next 96 hours be sent to the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) WhatsApp Number; 08056003030 so that the umpire can ensure the reward is delivered or the Board is once and for all exonerated from the recurring campaign of calumny.

Similarly, anyone who finds no fault in airlines requesting air-travellers to arrive at the airport 2 hours before the departure time should find no fault in encouraging candidates to arrive at the CBT centres, 90 minutes before commencement of examination for preliminary verification. Many parents who expect candidates to spend not more than 2 hours for the 2 hours examination are apparently oblivious of the required preliminary processes.

The public is encouraged to grant public agencies the benefit of the doubt and trust that they exist to serve public interest in the best possible manner. JAMB as a government agency is committed to public good at all times. A trial will convince any.

On a lighter note, another dimension of gullibility was exhibited by a female UTME candidate who refused to attempt any question when she sat for the examination this morning because she was complying with the instruction of her grandfather to do nothing at the examination but wait for miraculous intervention. Of course such miracles do not happen with JAMB.

Candidates are advised against superstitious and baseless dream of reaping where they did not sow."

FN Blog

Pope Francis laid to Rest at St. Mary Major Basilica

Pope Francis was laid to rest at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major on Saturday, April 26, 2025, after a funeral Mass at the Vatican attended by hundreds of thousands of mourners and world leaders, including United States President, Donald Trump.

Francis, who died on Easter Monday, aged 88, was remembered as a “pope among the people” who sought to “build bridges, not walls” in a funeral homily at St. Peter’s Square.

An estimated 400,000 people occupied the square and lined the streets of Rome to say goodbye to the Argentinian pontiff, a champion of the poor who had led the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics since 2013.

It's noteworthy that President Trump held talks with his Ukrainian counterpart on the sidelines of the funeral, which Volodymyr Zelensky described as positive, with “potential to become historic”.

The papal funeral marks the first of nine days of mourning for Catholics across the world.

Another Mass of mourning will be held in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, April 27. That will be led by Italian Cardinal, Pietro Parolin, who is reportedly viewed as a leading papal contender.

In coming days, the Vatican will announce the date for the commencement of the Conclave, in which Pope Francis’ successor would be elected.

FN Blog

Brazil jails ex-president for Corruption

The erstwhile President of Brazil, Fernando Collor de Mello, has been sentenced to nine-year imprisonment for corruption and money laundering on Friday, April 25, 2025.

Collor de Mello, Brazil’s first democratically elected president after a decades-long dictatorship, resigned in 1992 after Congress launched impeachment proceedings against him for allegedly taking bribes.

He was arrested years later. His arrest was informed by the alleged bribes taken two decades later while he was serving as a senator, which was part of the sprawling “Car Wash” corruption scandal.

The 75-year-old was detained in Maceio city in northeastern Alagoas state, where he served as a senator and governor, after his exit as president.

In 2023, Collor de Mello was found guilty of having received 20 million reais (3.5 million dollars) in bribes while a senator between 2010 and 2014 to “irregularly facilitate contracts” between a construction company and a former subsidiary of Brazil’s state oil company Petrobras.

On Thursday, 24th April, 2025, the country's Supreme Court justice, Alexandre de Moraes rejected Collor de Mello’s last-gasp efforts to have his arrest order annulled.

Moraes ordered he be incarcerated in an individual cell in a “special wing” of Baldomero Cavalcanti de Oliveira prison in Maceio.

His lawyers told local media that the arrest came as he was about to travel to the capital Brasilia to turn himself in.

His lawyers said they would seek permission for him to serve his sentence under house arrest.

It's noteworthy that Collor de Mello is not Brazil’s first president to fall foul of the law.

Four of the seven people who have led the country since the 1964-1985 military dictatorship had either been convicted, jailed or impeached.

In the latest case, far-right former president Jair Bolsonaro has been ordered to stand trial over an alleged coup plot after losing the 2022 election.

While recovering in hospital this week from intestinal surgery, a court official handed the 70-year-old a summons giving him five days to submit his initial defence.

FN Blog

WhatsApp to stop Working on 3 iPhone models, May 5

The Social Media giant, Meta, has announced that, from May 5, 2025, some iPhone models will stop making use of their messaging platform, WhatsApp.

According to the announcement, anyone still using three particular Apple devices would cease to send or receive messages on the said app.

The affected devices are: iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus.

Beyond this date, only devices running the iOS 15.1 operating system or higher version would be supported.

The WhatsApp Spokesperson said, “Every year we look at which devices and software are the oldest and have the fewest users.

“These devices also might not have the latest security updates, or might lack the functionality required to run WhatsApp,”

It's noteworthy that the oldest of the affected phones, iPhone 5s, was released over a decade ago, in 2013 precisely, while the most recent, iPhone 6 Plus, was released just a year later in 2014.

All of these iPhone models were discontinued by Apple in 2016 and were officially declared obsolete.

FN Blog

NUC inaugurates Committee for Disbursement of #50bn to varsities

The Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, has officially inaugurated a high profile 9-man Committee responsible for overseeing the disbursement of the Fifty Billion Naira (₦50 billion) earned academic allowance/earned allowance to eligible staff across Federal Universities, Inter-University Centres, and Divisions of Agricultural Colleges, in Nigeria.

The inauguration event took place on 24th April 2025 at the NUC headquarters, Abuja, the Nigeria's capital territory.

Mr. Mohammed Faruk was appointed as the Chairman of the Committee. It was reported that the nine members of the committee were carefully selected to assist in implementing this crucial initiative as mandated by the Federal Government.

This significant investment in the education sector is a reflection of Government's commitment to improve the welfare of university staff and enhance the overall quality of higher education in the country.

The committee is expected to clarify the specific criteria for eligibility and outline the disbursement process and submit the report within two weeks from the date of inauguration.

FN Blog

ECOWAS Convenes Meeting On Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger's Withdrawal

The Council of Ministers of The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has convened an extraordinary meeting in Accra, Ghana, to deliberate on the proposed withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic from the regional bloc.

The Chairman of the Council, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this on Thursday, 24th April 2025, in a statement issued from his office aide.

The Extraordinary Session follows directive from the Authority of Heads of State and Government during its 66th Ordinary Session, mandating the Council to adopt modalities and a contingency plan for the disengagement of the three Sahelian nations.

FN Blog

Meet the Acting Head of the Vatican

...He is Cardinal Kevin Farrell.

Born in Dublin, Farrell spent over 30 years working in the US.

The Irish-American cardinal, little known in the wider world, was the one that broke the news on Pope Francis' demise on Easter Monday, 21st April 2025, in which he said, the Pope had "returned to the home of the Father".

After the announcement, Farrell took on one of his biggest roles as the "Camerlengo", or the person who runs the Vatican after the death or resignation of a pope.

Pope Francis nominated the Cardinal for the role in 2019.

He will remain in the position during the "Apostolica Sedes Vacans", the period between the death or resignation of a pope until the election of the next pontiff.

He also will play an important role in the centuries-old ceremonies to mourn Pope Francis.

FN Blog

Why some Cardinals aren't wearing Red, as they gather in Vatican

You may have observed that some cardinals are not wearing red garments, as the members of the College of Cardinals arrived in Rome ahead of Pope Francis' funeral and the upcoming conclave.

The Lying in State of the Pontiff takes place on Wednesday, 23rd April, whilst his funeral will occur on Saturday, 26th April, 2025.

In the epochal gathering, some of the cardinals seemed to have missed the fashion memo. But that's not true.

In the sea of red birettas, the men clad in black vestments and hats stand out. But what's going on?

When in public or at a diplomatic event, the cardinals wear "choir dress" — the red outfit one imagines when they hear the word "cardinal." That includes conclaves. But that only applies to cardinals who are members of the Latin Church.

The Catholic Church is more than just 'one Church' in the real sense; it's literally 24 Churches. While the vast majority of the world's Catholics are "Latin Catholics", about 18 million of them belong to one of the 23 "sui iuris" Churches.

The largest of these churches are the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and the Syro-Malabar Church, each with over 4 million members. The smallest Churches have only a few thousand members.

By comparison, the Latin Church has over a billion members.

With the exception of the Maronite Catholic Church, these churches were all formerly Eastern or Oriental Orthodox and elected to return to full communion with Rome.

While these Churches are autonomous, they are in full communion with Rome and acknowledge the pope as their leader, but still maintain some of their own liturgical traditions and customs.

So, those men wearing black are cardinals of the Eastern Churches.

Eastern Catholic bishops who are elevated to the College of Cardinals typically keep their traditional attire. So, no red.

There are presently five cardinal electors who belong to Eastern Catholic Churches.

These are: Cardinal Louis Raphael I Sako, a Chaldean Catholic; Cardinal Baselios Cleemis of the Syro-Malankara Church; Cardinal Berhaneyesus Demerew Souraphiel, an Ethiopian Catholic; Cardinal Mykola Bychok of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church; and Cardinal George Koovakad of the Syro-Malabar Church.

One of those has an interesting distinction: Cardinal Mykola Bychok of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, who is serving in Australia, is the youngest cardinal.

The other three cardinals: Cardinal Bechara Boutros al-Rahi of the Maronite Catholic Church; Cardinal George Alencherry of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church; and Cardinal Lucian Muresan of the Romanian Greek Catholic Church, at ages 85, 80, and 93, respectively, are too old to vote in the conclave.

Cardinal Alencherry unfortunately missed the chance by merely a couple of days, as he clocked 80 years on April 19, 2025, just two days prior to the demise of Pope Francis.

FN Blog

Meet the renowned Nigerian Author & Columnist, Fred Nwaozor

Photo gallery of Fred Nwaozor

TheMediaAmbassador, as he's widely known, is a tech expert, author, scholar, creative & content writer, media strategist, policy analyst, blogger, public speaker and rights activist.

He maintains columns in various national dailies in Nigeria, for countless years now. He also regularly writes for the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN). He's a media guru that has, since over two decades till date, been actively present in all segments in the media industry - including electronic, print & digital. He's the Founder & Convener of Right Thinkers Movement (RITMO), Nigeria, a pro-democracy & good governance initiative targeted to usher in the needed change & transformation in the leadership system on the African continent.

Fred Nwaozor is a chartered engineer by profession. Academically, he obtained his Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech. Hons.) in Industrial Physics/Electronics from the prestigious Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), and later bagged Master of Engineering (M.Eng) in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, also from FUTO, before proceeding for his doctoral degree (Ph.D) in Telecommunications Engineering. He's a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).

Being a full-time researcher and educator in the academia, he's a regular contributor and peer reviewer for various internationally-recognized engineering journals. As a Telecom Engineer, his prime interest in research lies in IoT, Data security, wireless networks, Smart city, and AI.

His hobbies include reading, travelling, swimming, solving mathematical problems, listening to music, as well as playing table tennis, scrabble, and snooker.

FN Blog

BREAKING: Pope Francis Dies At 88

The Universal Leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, has passed on at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta. He reportedly died during the early hours of the Easter Monday, 21st April, 2025.

He was born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, the capital city of Argentina. He was the first pope from the Americans and also the first Jesuit pope. At 9:45 AM, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, announced the death of Pope Francis from the Casa Santa Marta with these words:

"Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God."

The Pope was admitted to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on Friday, February 14, 2025, after suffering from a bout of bronchitis for several days.

Pope Francis’ clinical situation gradually worsened, and his doctors diagnosed bilateral pneumonia on Tuesday, February 18.

After 38 days in hospital, the late Pope returned to his Vatican residence at the Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery.

FN Blog

US, Iran Hold Nuclear Talks in Rome

> The United States (US) and Iran have commenced bilateral talks in Rome, on April 19, 2025, in bid to reach nuclear deal.

The duo started a new round of nuclear talks to resolve their decades-long standoff over Tehran's atomic aims, under the shadow of President Donald Trump's threat to unleash military action if diplomacy fails.

"Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, and Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, will negotiate indirectly through an Omani official who will shuttle messages between the two sides," Iranian officials said, a week after a first round of indirect talks in Muscat that both sides described as constructive.

Araqchi and Witkoff interacted briefly at the end of the first round, but officials from the two countries have not held direct negotiations since 2015 under former U.S. President Barack Obama.

Araqchi, in a meeting with his Italian counterpart ahead of the talks, said "Iran had always been committed to diplomacy and called on "all parties involved in the talks to seize the opportunity to reach a reasonable and logical nuclear deal".

"Such an agreement should respect Iran's legitimate rights and lead to the lifting of unjust sanctions on the country while addressing any doubts about its nuclear work."

He said in Moscow on Friday that Iran believes reaching an agreement on its nuclear programme with the U.S. is possible as long as Washington is realistic.

"Rome becomes the capital of peace and dialogue," Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani wrote on X. "I encouraged Araqchi to follow the path of negotiation against nuclear arms. The hope of the Italian government is that all together may find a positive solution for the Middle East."

Tehran has however sought to tamp down expectations of a quick deal, after some Iranian officials speculated that sanctions could be lifted soon.

Iran's utmost authority, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said this week he was "neither overly optimistic nor pessimistic".

For his part, Trump told reporters on Friday: "I'm for stopping Iran, very simply, from having a nuclear weapon. They can't have a nuclear weapon. I want Iran to be great and prosperous and terrific."

Meanwhile, Israel has not ruled out an attack on Iran's nuclear facilities in the coming months, according to an Israeli official and two other people familiar with the matter.

Trump, who ditched a 2015 nuclear pact between Iran and six powers during his first term in 2018 and reimposed crippling sanctions on Tehran, has revived his "maximum pressure" campaign on the country since returning to the White House in January, 2025.

"Washington wants Iran to halt production of highly enriched uranium, which it believes is aimed at building an atomic bomb." Trump said.

"Tehran, which has always maintained its nuclear programme is peaceful, says it is willing to negotiate some curbs in return for the lifting of sanctions, but wants watertight guarantees that Washington will not renege again."

Since 2019, Iran has breached and far surpassed the 2015 deal's limits on its uranium enrichment, producing stocks far above what the West says is necessary for a civilian energy programme.

Russia, a party to Iran's 2015 nuclear agreement, has offered "to assist, mediate, and play any role" that will be beneficial to Iran and the U.S.

FN Blog

Macron hosts Ceasefire Talks on Ukraine/Russia War

The French President, Emmanuel Macron, has successfully met in Paris, France with top diplomats from the United States (US), Europe, and Ukraine, on April 17, 2025, which was reportedly aimed at reviving stalled ceasefire efforts.

The high-profile diplomatic meeting was described by a French official as an “excellent day of talks in Paris".

After the meeting, the Élysée Palace announced that "Senior US, European and Ukrainian diplomats will meet again" in London next week.

“We have started a positive process in which Europeans are a part,” the spokesperson said after the meetings attended by top French, German, British and Ukrainian officials as well as the US secretary of State, Marco Rubio, and Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff.

The French official said: “The Americans are ready to discuss security guarantees, but the exact content of those guarantees will depend on negotiations allowing Ukraine to achieve a solid and durable peace starting with a complete ceasefire as soon as possible.”

France’s president, Macron, hosted the talks as Washington and Europe seek common ground on how to end the fighting three years after Russia invaded its neighbour, Ukraine, with Trump’s pledge to swiftly end the war so far unfulfilled.

“Everyone wants to get peace. A robust and sustainable peace. The question is about phasing,” Macron said as the talks got under way.

Keith Kellogg, Trump’s envoy to Ukraine, who also attended, said afterwards the talks were “very productive” but gave no details.

A previously unannounced team of Ukrainian officials including Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Chief of Staff, Andriy Yermak, and the country’s Foreign and Defence ministers flew in to meet the US and European delegations.

Yermak said: “We exchanged views on the next steps…, including the implementation of a full ceasefire, the involvement of a multinational military contingent, and development of an effective security architecture for Ukraine.”

In Kyiv, Zelenskyy was critical of Witkoff’s message, saying he believed the US envoy had “taken on the strategy of the Russian side”. He added: “I think it is very dangerous, because he is – consciously or unconsciously, I don’t know – spreading Russian narratives.”

Earlier on Thursday, the Ukrainian President, Zelenskyy, said pressure must be put on Moscow to call a halt to the fighting. “Russia uses every day and night to kill,” he said. “We must put pressure on the killers, to end this war and guarantee a lasting peace.”

The Élysée spokesperson said the object of the meetings was “to allow Ukraine to better understand the US proposals”, adding that the fact that Rubio, Witkoff and Kellogg attended “shows they recognize the important role of the Europeans”.

Macron spoke to Zelenskyy by phone before the talks, the French president’s office said. He later greeted Witkoff and Rubio before a joint lunch. Before that, his foreign policy adviser, Emmanuel Bonne, and his British and German counterparts met Yermak.

Trump has indicated frustration with both Moscow and Kyiv, but European leaders’ concern has mounted as the US president heaps pressure and criticism on Zelenskyy while repeatedly making diplomatic overtures to Putin.

FN Blog

UK Court: Legal Definition of 'Woman' excludes trans-Gender

In a landmark ruling on April 16, 2025, the United Kingdom’s (UK) highest court proclaimed that the legal definition of “woman” excludes trans-women, in a case with sweeping consequences for how equality laws are applied.

Britain’s Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the definition of a woman in equality legislation refers to “a biological woman and biological sex,” sparking celebrations outside court among gender-critical campaigners.

The court decided on whether trans women with a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC) – which offers legal recognition of someone’s female sex – are protected from discrimination as a woman under the nation’s Equality Act 2010.

A group of campaigners in Scotland brought the challenge in 2018, arguing that those rights should only safeguard those assigned as women at birth. But the Scottish government said that a trans-woman with a GRC is legally a woman and should therefore be accorded the same legal protections.

Even though the case draws from a debate over Scottish laws designed to increase the number of women sitting on boards, the outcome on Wednesday will shape the increasingly fractious and polarizing debate over transgender rights across the UK.

The UK’s ruling Labour party said the ruling brought “clarity and confidence” while the opposition Conservatives called it a “clear victory for common sense,” urging the government to amend existing guidance.

“The terms woman and sex in the Equality Act 2010 refer to a biological woman and biological sex,” Lord Patrick Hodge told the court in London. “The provisions relating to sex discrimination can only be interpreted as referring to biological sex,” he added.

“Interpreting ‘sex’ as certificated sex would cut across the definitions of ‘man’ and ‘woman’ and thus the protected characteristic of sex in an incoherent way,” a summary of the ruling said, which added that transgender women could be excluded from same-sex facilities such as changing rooms if “proportionate.”

If transgender women with a GRC are accorded the same protected characteristic as biological women under the Equality Act, Hodge said, they would possess “greater rights than those who do not,” citing provisions relating to pregnancy and maternity leave.

The justice insisted that the court’s interpretation of the Equality Act 2010 “does not remove protection from trans people,” with or without a GRC document. A trans woman could claim discrimination on the grounds of gender reassignment, and because “she is perceived to be a woman,” added Hodge.

The ruling has triggered wide jubilation within and outside court by women activists in Scotland, and the UK at large. Britain’s government “has always supported the protection of single-sex spaces based on biological sex,” a spokesperson said, following the ruling.

“This ruling brings clarity and confidence, for women and service providers such as hospitals, refuges, and sports clubs,” the spokesperson added. “Single-sex spaces are protected in law and will always be protected by this Government.”

FN Blog

Gov. Alia warns Obi, others Against Unapproved Visit to Benue

The Governor of Benue State, Nigeria, Hyacinth Alia, on 14th April 2025, issued a warning, stating he could not ensure the safety of any individual or group arriving in the state without his prior knowledge.

The Governor advised those contemplating such visits to rethink their plans for their own safety and well-being.

Additionally, the governor emphasized that anyone intending to visit the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in the state must obtain prior approval from the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) before proceeding with their visit. The press release came after the the Presidential contestant under the auspices of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections in Nigeria and the erstwhile governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, reportedly sought the attention of the governor over his scheduled visit to the Benue State, but his efforts to reach Gov. Alia proved abortive.

The warning released by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, under the title “Notice Regarding Unscheduled Visit to Benue State.”

Additionally, the governor emphasized that anyone intending to visit the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in the state must obtain prior approval from the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) before proceeding with their visit.

Part of the statement read: “The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, wishes to inform the public that he is not expecting any August visitor to the state today.

“He is currently engaged in high-profile meetings with key state actors to discuss critical issues affecting our state. “Therefore, he strongly advises against any group or high-profile individual(s) attempting to enter the state for any kind of visit that may generate political assemblies without prior approval.

“For anyone considering a visit to Benue State without the Governor’s knowledge, it is imperative to reconsider such plans, as the safety and security of individuals in this regard cannot be guaranteed. “Also the public is to note that all individuals or groups intending to visit IDPs in Benue State must first seek and obtain written permission from Benue State Emergency Management Agency, BSEMA.

“We urge security agents and the public to take note of this announcement and maintain peace and order in the state.”

FN Blog

NBC Bans Eedris Abdulkareem's Latest Song

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has barred Nigerian radio and television stations from airing the trending song “Tell Your Papa” recently released by the notable rapper, Eedris Abdulkareem, citing its “objectionable nature.” In a memo dated April 9, 2025 and issued by the Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring, Susan Obi, the commission declared the track Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB) under Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. This section prohibits content deemed inappropriate, offensive, or in breach of public decency from being aired on Nigerian broadcast platforms. According to the NBC, while the song has gained momentum across social media platforms, its lyrical content fails to meet the standards of responsible broadcasting. The statement titled, “Restriction on boradcasting ‘Tell Your Papa’ by Eedris Abdulkareem,’ read, “The National Broadcasting Commission has identified the song ‘Tell Your Papa’ by Eedris Abdulkareem, currently trending on social media, as content deemed inappropriate for broadcast due to its objectionable nature. ”It is therefore classified as Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB), as it violates Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code. “The commission requests that your station exercises discretion and refrains from airing this song to maintain responsible broadcasting standards. “Your cooperation and commitment to upholding this directive are greatly appreciated." The controversial song, released earlier this week, targets Seyi Tinubu, son of Nigeria's President, Bola Tinubu, calling on him to confront his father over the worsening socio-economic conditions in Nigeria. In the track titled “Tell Your Papa,” which was shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, April 6, 2025, Eedris Abdulkareem delivered a blunt message, painting a grim picture of the hardships facing every Nigerian resident in the country. The song comes in response to Seyi Tinubu’s recent comments in Adamawa State, where he described his father as “the greatest president in Nigeria’s history.” In the hard-hitting lyrics, Eedris raps, “Seyi, tell your papa country hard. Tell your papa people dey die. Tell your papa this one don pass jagajaga.” “Seyi, how far? I swear your papa no try. Too much empty promises. On behalf of Nigerians, take our message to him; kidnappers dey kill Nigerians. “Seyi, try travel by road without your security make you feel the pains of fellow Nigerians. You dey fly private jets, insecurity no be your problem,” he sings. FN Blog

Burkina Faso unveils first Electric Vehicle

Burkina Faso has graciously unveiled the country’s first locally produced electric vehicle model, called ITAOUA, marking a remarkable moment in the history of the West African nation.

This records a groundbreaking development in a country traditionally reliant on agriculture.

It's reported that all the parts deployed in the process of manufacturing the car were locally sourced.

The newly built vehicle could reportedly travel up to 330km having been charged, and can only take 30 minutes to be fully charged.

The President, Capt Ibrahim Traore, has promised to release sufficient funds to encourage young talents to come up with mass production of the electric vehicle.

FN Blog

"He made 1st Call on MTN Network": MTN mourns Pascal Dozie

MTN Nigeria has expressed sadness over the death of its founding chairman, Dr Pascal Dozie, describing him as a pioneer, statesman, and titan of industry.

MTN Nigeria said Dozie, who died at the age of o6 on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, played a pivotal role in the emergence of mobile telephone in Nigeria and in shaping the company’s story.

The company made this known through a statement issued by its Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola, on Tuesday, April 8.

Toriola said Dozie brought insight, experience, and leadership at a time when bold vision was essential, adding that he was instrumental in securing the early support and investment that brought the Y’ello dream to life.

Toriola stated: “On May 16, 2001, he made the first call on the MTN network, a historic moment in Nigeria’s telecommunications journey.

“For 18 years, from 2001 to 2019, Dr. Dozie served as Chairman, leading with strength and conviction. His presence on the Board was unifying.

“He championed good governance, corporate responsibility, and long-term value, deeply committed to the greater good. In challenging times, he remained a stabilising force.

“His unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential and his dedication to its development were truly inspiring. His leadership at MTN Nigeria laid the foundation for our success, and his legacy will continue to guide us in the years to come.

“We are profoundly grateful for his time with us. His memory will remain a guiding light for MTN, Nigeria’s business community, and everyone who shares his unwavering commitment to progress built on integrity and service.”

FN Blog