society
NUSA Leadership Pays Respect to Late President Muhammadu Buhari at Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg
NUSA Leadership Pays Respect to Late President Muhammadu Buhari at Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
In a solemn display of patriotism and respect, the leadership of the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) visited the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg to sign the condolence register and honor the memory of Nigeria’s former president, Muhammadu Buhari, who passed on recently. The visit, led by the President General of NUSA, Advocate Smart I. Nwobi, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen, and the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the President General, Hon. George Omagbemi Sylvester, represented a significant moment in the collective response of the Nigerian diaspora to the loss of a national figure.
The NUSA delegation’s presence at the consulate was more than a formality; it was a strong message to the world that Nigerians abroad remain deeply connected to the affairs of their homeland. Despite the challenges of distance and foreign obligations, the spirit of nationalism remains unshaken among Nigerians in South Africa and around the world. The condolence visit was also an opportunity for NUSA to affirm its continued commitment to engaging with Nigeria’s diplomatic institutions and to stand in solidarity with fellow citizens during moments of grief and transition.
Mourning a Controversial Yet Historic Leader President Muhammadu Buhari remains one of the most significant figures in Nigeria’s post-independence political history. A military general turned democratic president, Buhari governed Nigeria in two pivotal eras, first as a military head of state from 1983 to 1985, and later as a civilian president from 2015 to 2023. His legacy, though polarizing, is indelible. Buhari’s admirers see him as a leader who stood against corruption and advocated for fiscal discipline. His critics argue that his administration presided over some of Nigeria’s most challenging economic and security crises.
Nonetheless, leadership at the highest level comes with unavoidable complexities and Buhari’s place in the national story is undeniable. He symbolized a generation of leaders who transitioned from authoritarianism to democracy, reflecting both the resilience and contradictions of the Nigerian state.
In our condolence message at the consulate, we acknowledged the contributions of the late President Buhari to Nigeria’s evolving political landscape. We extended our deepest sympathies to the government and people of Nigeria, as well as to the bereaved family. We noted that regardless of political affiliations, moments like this require national reflection, healing and unity.
NUSA: A Diaspora Voice of Unity. The visit to the consulate by NUSA officials is in keeping with the organization’s longstanding tradition of involvement in key national developments. Whether in celebration or mourning, NUSA has consistently stood as a reliable voice of Nigerians in South Africa. Our presence at the consulate sent a clear message that the diaspora community remains emotionally, spiritually and politically connected to the homeland.
As Nigerians in South Africa grapple with their own local realities, they remain deeply engaged with what happens in Nigeria. The mourning of President Buhari’s death across various Nigerian communities in the diaspora reflects the profound attachment to the idea of Nigeria not just as a geographical entity, but as a collective destiny shared by millions around the world.
The Role of the Diaspora in National Healing. The passing of a former president opens a chapter of reflection for any nation. It presents an opportunity for honest assessment of national progress, challenges and future direction. For Nigerians in the diaspora, this moment calls for more than mere commemoration; it calls for rededication to the nation-building project.
Nigeria continues to face economic challenges, political instability and widespread insecurity. The diaspora, estimated to remit over $20 billion annually, represents one of the most potent, untapped forces for national transformation. Organizations like NUSA are crucial bridges between Nigeria and its global citizens and their active participation in national discourse, policy advocacy and international representation is needed now more than ever.
The leadership of NUSA believes that paying respect to past leaders, regardless of their imperfections, is part of the moral and cultural responsibility that binds Nigerians across tribes, faiths, and ideologies. In times of national mourning, unity becomes more than a slogan, it becomes an obligation.
Upholding the Dignity of the Nigerian Image. In recent times, Nigerians abroad have had to defend their image against stereotypes, discrimination and sometimes xenophobia. Events such as this condolence visit remind host nations and the global community that Nigerians are a people of deep values, with strong cultural traditions of respect, honor and national pride.
President Buhari’s death may have sparked diverse opinions, but it also brought to the fore the importance of peaceful transition and the sanctity of national institutions. As the consulate opened its doors to receive condolence messages from citizens, the atmosphere was filled with reverence a moment for reflection on the cost of leadership and the burden it places on every public servant.
We at NUSA understand that the image of Nigeria is not only shaped by the headlines or government actions back home, it is also defined by how we, the diaspora, carry ourselves abroad. The respectful and dignified manner in which our delegation conducted the condolence visit serves as a reminder that patriotism knows no borders.
A Time for Collective Reflection. As the nation reflects on Buhari’s complex legacy, this is also a time for Nigerians to examine their roles in shaping the future. President Buhari’s tenure was marked by both achievements and failures. From the fight against Boko Haram to the controversial fuel subsidy removals, from infrastructural strides to rising unemployment, Nigerians will remember him through various lenses.
What remains unchallenged is his place in history as one of the few Nigerians to have led the country both in khaki and in agbada. Whether you admired his stoic leadership or disagreed with his economic policies, Buhari’s death reminds us of the human frailty behind the politics and the need to always strive for better governance, equity, and justice.
In A Nutshell: A Final Salute. The Nigerian Union South Africa, through its visit to the consulate, has not only paid respects to a former president but has reaffirmed its belief in the unity, dignity and future of Nigeria. We salute the memory of Muhammadu Buhari, while calling on all Nigerians, at home and abroad, to recommit to a peaceful, just and prosperous nation.
We call on current and future leaders to learn from the past not to repeat its mistakes, but to draw strength from its lessons. The road to greatness for Nigeria is long, but with unity, sacrifice and bold leadership, it remains achievable.
As we lowered our heads at the consulate and etched our names in the condolence register, we did so not just for a man, but for a country we all deeply love; a country whose journey continues, shaped by the hands of all its sons and daughters, wherever they may be.
Written by George Omagbemi Sylvester
Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the President General, NUSA
Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
society
Trump Raises Alarm Over Iran’s Expanding Missile Arsenal Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions
Trump Raises Alarm Over Iran’s Expanding Missile Arsenal Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“U.S. president claims Tehran had more missiles than expected and was weeks away from launching attacks, sparking renewed global security concerns.”
United States President Donald Trump has intensified global debate over the growing crisis in the Middle East after claiming that Iran possesses significantly more missiles than American intelligence initially estimated and was allegedly preparing an imminent attack against U.S. interests. Trump made the assertion while commenting on the escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, warning that Iranian military capabilities were far greater than previously understood.
Trump argued that new intelligence assessments revealed that Iran had rapidly expanded its ballistic missile stockpile and had developed the capacity to strike American forces and regional allies with little warning. According to him, Iranian military planners were “within a week” of launching coordinated attacks before preventive military measures were taken. The remarks have reignited international discussions about the scale of Iran’s missile program and the broader security implications for the Middle East.
The claims emerged amid renewed tensions between the United States and Iran following military operations targeting Iranian facilities believed to be linked to weapons development and regional military coordination. Washington has maintained that such actions were necessary to prevent a potential escalation and to protect American personnel stationed across the region.
Security analysts, however, caution that the situation reflects a deeper geopolitical rivalry rather than a single imminent threat. Dr. Anthony H. Cordesman, a renowned military analyst at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, noted that Iran’s missile development has been expanding steadily for years as part of its broader deterrence strategy. According to Cordesman, “Iran relies heavily on missile capabilities because it cannot match the conventional military power of the United States or its regional partners. These weapons are central to its defensive posture and influence across the region.”
Similarly, Professor Vali Nasr, a Middle East expert at Johns Hopkins University, argued that the missile issue must be viewed within the wider strategic competition between Iran and Western powers. Nasr explained that “Iran’s missile program has long been a tool of strategic leverage. While it certainly raises legitimate security concerns, the rhetoric surrounding it often reflects political positioning as much as intelligence assessments.”
Iran has consistently maintained that its missile program is purely defensive and aimed at safeguarding its sovereignty against foreign intervention. Officials in Tehran have repeatedly denied planning any direct attacks on the United States, insisting that their military capabilities are intended to deter aggression rather than provoke conflict.
Despite these denials, regional tensions remain high. Analysts warn that heightened rhetoric from political leaders, combined with military deployments and intelligence claims, could fuel misunderstandings that might spiral into a broader confrontation.
Energy markets and global security observers are also closely monitoring the situation because instability in the Middle East (one of the world’s most critical energy corridors) can have far-reaching economic consequences. Economist Paul Krugman emphasized that geopolitical shocks in the region often reverberate through global markets. “Any serious escalation involving Iran can disrupt oil supply expectations, unsettle financial markets and affect economic stability far beyond the region,” he said.
Diplomatic experts say sustained dialogue remains the most viable path to preventing further escalation. Former U.S. diplomat Ryan Crocker stressed that “military pressure alone rarely resolves deeply rooted geopolitical disputes. Long-term stability requires negotiations, trust-building measures and regional cooperation.”
As the standoff continues, governments, security institutions and international observers remain alert to developments that could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. Trump’s comments have added another layer of tension to an already volatile environment, reinforcing fears that the region could face renewed instability if diplomatic efforts fail to gain traction.
While policymakers debate the scale of the threat posed by Iran’s missile arsenal, experts agree that the stakes remain extremely high; not only for the United States and Iran but also for the broader international community seeking to prevent another major conflict in the Middle East.
Empowered Women, Stronger Nation: Building Futures Through Property Ownership
As the world commemorates International Women’s Day, attention rightly turns to the extraordinary role women play in shaping families, communities, and national economies. Beyond nurturing homes and leading in boardrooms, women are increasingly emerging as powerful drivers of nation-building through one of the most transformative assets of all, property ownership.
Across Nigeria, women are steadily breaking long-standing barriers in business, governance, technology, education, and entrepreneurship. Their expanding economic influence is uplifting households, strengthening institutions, and reinforcing the nation’s financial foundation. The evidence is clear: when women earn, communities prosper; when women invest, societies advance.
One of the most visible expressions of this progress is in real estate acquisition. Property ownership empowers women with security, stability, and the ability to build generational wealth. A home is more than a structure of concrete and steel, it is a platform for legacy, enterprise, social mobility, and long-term influence.
From young professionals purchasing their first plots of land to seasoned executives expanding diversified investment portfolios, Nigerian women are redefining wealth creation and strategic future planning. Their growing presence in the property market signals a cultural and economic shift toward asset-backed empowerment.
Real estate remains one of the safest and most rewarding investment paths, and women are embracing the opportunity with confidence. Their participation is reshaping urban development patterns, influencing housing demand, and stimulating construction, infrastructure growth, and employment value chains nationwide.
At Adron Homes and Properties, empowering women through property ownership is seen as a direct investment in national progress. Every woman who secures land or a home strengthens family stability, fuels economic growth, and inspires future generations to dream bigger and aim higher.
This International Women’s Day, women are celebrated not only for who they are, but for what they build:
* Builders of families
* Drivers of economic growth
* Investors in the future
* Architects of generational wealth
To honor their impact, Adron Homes is expanding access to ownership through flexible payment plans, inclusive investment opportunities, and customer-friendly support services designed to make property acquisition simple, transparent, and rewarding.
Because when women rise, nations thrive. And when women own property, the future is secured.
society
PALESH KENYA 2026 Ends in Grand Style as UNIPGC African Continental Chapter Honors Prof. Patrick Lumumba (PLO) as PATRON
*PALESH KENYA 2026 Ends in Grand Style as UNIPGC African Continental Chapter Honors Prof. Patrick Lumumba (PLO) as PATRON*
The 15th Edition of the *UNIPGC PAN AFRICAN LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM and HONORS (PALESH) Kenya 2026* concluded in grand style as the African Continental Chapter of the *United Nations International Peace and Governance Council (UNIPGC Africa)* honored renowned Pan-Africanist, *Prof. Patrick Lumumba (PLO)* as its *PATRON* alongside other distinguished personalities.
This honor bestowed on Prof. Lumumba is in recognition of his outstanding contributions to leadership, governance advocacy, and Pan-African development.
This prestigious event which took place on *Friday, March 6, 2026*, at the *KCB Leadership Institute, Karen, Nairobi, Republic of Kenya*, attracted prominent leaders, diplomats, and professionals from across Africa.
It may be recalled that in the previous year, *Liberia’s immediate past Vice President, H.E. Jewel Howard Taylor*, was honored as MATRON UNIPGC AFRICA by the organization. H.E. Jewel Taylor served as *Vice President of Liberia from 2018 to 2024 under President George Weah and was also First Lady of Liberia from 1997 to 2003*during the presidency of her former Husband , Charles Taylor.
The *15th Edition of PALESH Kenya 2026* commenced with the *Morning Session*, which featured guest accreditation and red carpet interviews with distinguished dignitaries and participants who attended the event.
The symposium marked a significant moment in the advancement of diplomacy and leadership discourse in Africa, bringing together notable leaders from different parts of the continent.
The *Leadership Symposium* featured prominent African leaders who delivered keynote addresses centered on the theme:
*Governance for Sustainable Development: Challenges and Prospects in Africa.*
Among the distinguished keynote speakers were:
* *His Excellency Mike Mbuvi Sonko*, Former Governor of Nairobi City, Republic of Kenya.
* *His Excellency Prof. Dhadho Godhana*, Executive Governor of Tana River County, Republic of Kenya, and Chairman of the UNIPGC Advisory Council on Democracy and Governance.
* *H.E. Bishop Dr. Sinzohagera Emmanuel*, Former Senate President of the Republic of Burundi.
The event also featured the Inauguration Ceremony of Hon. Dr. Joshua Kaputa, whose oath-taking and investiture were conducted by the *UNIPGC Global President , His Excellency Amb. Dr. Jonathan Ojadah, GCOP*
The second Panel discussions and sessions were moderated by *Isabel Brenda* Founder and President of *Governance Hub Africa, Kenya*
Key speakers and topics presented during the symposium included:
* *Bishop Amb. Dr. John C. W*— *“Youth Activism and Political Participation: Shaping Africa’s Democratic Future.”*
* *Dr. Olubusola Oluwaferanmi* Founder/CEO, **FerFis Holistic Wellness (Nigeria/USA)** — *“Strengthening Democratic Governance Through Preventative Health Systems.”*
* *Mrs. Godelieve Manirakiza* (Republic of Burundi) — *“The Role of Civil Society in Sustainable Peace Building.”*
* *Maj. (Rtd) Odha* — *“Emerging Military Threats in Africa: Causes and Consequences.”*
The event also witnessed the *inauguration of several UNIPGC executives*, including:
1. *Amb. Dr. Rosaline Adedoyin Amangbo Adedoyin*– Continental Vice President, UNIPGC Africa
2. *Chief Amb. (Dr.) Gbenro Oladipupo*– Secretary General, UNIPGC Africa
3. *Amb. Dr. John C. W*– Member Advisory Committee on Leadership & Governance
4. *Amb. Dr. Joshua Kitaro Kaputa* – Country Director, UNIPGC Kenya
5. *Amb. Apostle Jane Wanja Kamau* – Country Director, UNIPGC Burundi
6. *Dr. Essien Essien Abel* – Advisory Member, UNIPGC Global Economic Council (GEC)
7. *Dr. Obie Otti Valerie Bassey* – Regional Director, UNIPGC West Africa
8. *Mr. Chukwuemeka Iheanacho Okereke* – UNIPGC Member, Special Envoy (Imo State Coordinator)
9. *Group Capt. Kalgo Sani* – Member, Advisory Council on Security & Sustainable Peace Building
Certificates of recognition were presented by **Dr. Carlos Sousa*, Member of the *UNIPGC Supreme Council* and Secretary General, UNIPGC CANADA .
The event concluded with an elegant Evening Session , highlighted by a glamorous *All-White Peace Ambassadors Gala Dinner and Award Reception*, celebrating diplomacy, leadership, and African excellence.
UNIPGC is a diplomatic civil society organization dedicated to promoting *sustainable peace, good governance advocacy, and poverty eradication* across the globe. The organization advances its mission through education, seminars, conferences, conflict resolution initiatives, mediation, publications, lectures, and the deployment of peace emissaries where necessary.
UNIPGC has also established educational capacity-building institutions such as the Chartered Institute of Peace and Governance (CIPG) and the American University of Peace and Governance (AUPG), which serve as platforms for training diplomats, leaders, and peace ambassadors worldwide.
Through its educational programs, UNIPGC seeks to develop the capacity of global leaders, with a focus on promoting the principles that foster good governance and peaceful coexistence among societies.
The organization further aims to collaborate with governments, United Nations agencies, and diplomatic missions worldwide to support the mandates of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
According to the organization:
*”We are working closely with UN organs in various countries to strengthen the relationship between the United Nations and the people of member states, while also creating public awareness about the activities and initiatives of the UN.”*
-
society6 months agoReligion: Africa’s Oldest Weapon of Enslavement and the Forgotten Truth
-
news3 months agoWHO REALLY OWNS MONIEPOINT? The $290 Million Deal That Sold Nigeria’s Top Fintech to Foreign Interests
-
Business6 months agoGTCO increases GTBank’s Paid-Up Capital to ₦504 Billion
-
society6 months ago“You Are Never Without Help” – Pastor Gebhardt Berndt Inspires Hope Through Empower Church (Video)