Author: Tech & Tools Desk

President Donald Trump has said he believes Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is still alive but may have been injured. Khamenei, whose father and former supreme leader was killed on the first day of the war between the United States, Israel and Iran, has not appeared publicly since he was chosen by a clerical assembly on Sunday. His first remarks were delivered by a television presenter on Thursday. In an interview on Fox News’ “The Brian Kilmeade Show,” Trump said he believes Khamenei is likely alive but may have been harmed. “I think he probably is (alive). I think he is damaged, but I think he’s probably alive in some form,” Trump said during the interview, which was published late Thursday. In his first remarks since assuming the role, Khamenei pledged to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed and urged neighbouring countries to shut down US military bases on their territory or risk being targeted by Iran. The United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran on February 28, prompting Iran to respond with strikes on Israel and Gulf nations hosting US bases. As the conflict nears the two-week mark, it has resulted in thousands of deaths and rattled global financial markets, while the leaders of Iran, Israel and the United States have all signalled their determination to continue the fight.

Nineteen individuals have been sentenced over a deadly attack at a concert hall near Moscow, which killed more than 100 people and is Russia’s deadliest mass shooting in 20 years. A Russian military court handed life sentences to four gunmen and 11 accomplices, while four others received prison terms ranging from 19 to 22 years, according to state media. The attack occurred on 22 March 2024 at Crocus City Concert Hall on the outskirts of Moscow. Gunmen opened fire and set the venue ablaze, killing 149 people and injuring over 500. An affiliate of the Islamic State claimed responsibility and released video footage of the attack. Russian authorities have repeatedly alleged Ukrainian involvement, which Kyiv has strongly denied. About 6,000 people were attending a rock concert in Krasnogorsk when the attackers stormed the hall, firing indiscriminately. They then set fires that caused the roof to collapse. Many victims died from gunshot wounds, while others succumbed to smoke inhalation. The four gunmen convicted of carrying out the shooting are reportedly citizens of Tajikistan, according to Russia’s Tass news agency. It remains unclear how the defendants pleaded or whether they will appeal their sentences. The trial was held behind closed doors, and there are reports suggesting some confessions may have been made under duress. Observers noted that when the men first appeared in court two years ago, they showed signs of having been beaten, with one brought in on a wheelchair. The group responsible, IS-K, is an ISIS offshoot that seeks to establish a caliphate across parts of Central and South Asia, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran. Graphic video footage verified by independent sources shows attackers firing on the concertgoers. Russian officials continue to assert a Ukrainian connection to the attack, though no evidence has been presented, and Ukrainian authorities strongly deny involvement. President Volodymyr Zelensky previously described Russia’s claims as “absolutely predictable.”

Stakeholders, including energy experts, economists, and labour representatives, have expressed concern over the Federal Government’s suspension of petrol imports, urging authorities to consider urgent price regulation as the Dangote Petroleum Refinery assumes a dominant position in Nigeria’s N14.4tn petrol market. The development signals a major shift in the country’s energy landscape. The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority recently confirmed that no petrol import licences have been issued this year, explaining that imports were no longer necessary as local production now meets national demand. Data released by the regulator showed that the Dangote refinery supplied about 92 per cent of Nigeria’s daily petrol consumption in February, following the halt in imports. According to the agency’s February 2026 fact sheet, local refineries supplied about 36.5 million litres of petrol daily during the month, while imports accounted for roughly three million litres per day. This brought the total daily supply to 39.5 million litres, with domestic refining providing around 92 per cent of the volume a significant departure from Nigeria’s long-standing dependence on imported fuel. The figures also reflect a sharp decline in imports compared to the previous month. At present, the Dangote refinery is the only facility producing petrol in the country, while other modular refineries focus mainly on diesel production. Using an estimated petrol price of N1,000 per litre and a daily consumption of 39.5 million litres, the Nigerian petrol market is valued at more than N14.4tn annually, although the value may fluctuate depending on global crude oil prices. The regulator’s confirmation that petrol imports have been suspended because domestic production can meet demand has triggered mixed reactions among industry stakeholders. Meanwhile, the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, said the government would not interfere with market-based pricing of petroleum products, stressing that intervention would only be considered as a last resort. He stated that rather than reversing reforms, the government would explore other measures to ease the cost-of-living pressures on Nigerians without returning to price controls. Energy expert Professor Emeritus Wumi Iledare noted that while the policy signals a shift toward domestic refining, it could also encourage speculation among market players. According to him, participants in a transitioning market may reposition themselves to gain advantages in supply, logistics, or pricing. He explained that such behaviour could involve precautionary stockpiling, opportunistic pricing strategies, or efforts to secure greater control over distribution networks. Iledare also observed that the drop in imports alongside a reduction in total petrol supply suggests the market is still adjusting to a new equilibrium between domestic refining capacity, inventory management, and distribution infrastructure. For the policy to succeed, he said, regulators must provide clear communication and ensure reliable supply mechanisms that sustain national demand. Another energy scholar, Professor Dayo Ayoade, said the regulator is best positioned to determine whether the country has sufficient petrol supply. He added that the agency must ensure Nigeria does not rely on costly imports when domestic refining can meet demand. However, he cautioned that regulators must also guard against potential supply disruptions if the Dangote refinery experiences operational challenges. According to Ayoade, Nigeria’s heavy reliance on the refinery reflects structural weaknesses in the country’s refining sector rather than deliberate market dominance by the operator. He stressed that the responsibility lies with regulators to ensure transparency in pricing and to prevent potential exploitation of market power. He added that authorities have the legal powers under the Petroleum Industry Act to penalise any abuse of market dominance if it occurs. Ayoade expressed optimism that competition would gradually increase as additional refineries become operational. Similarly, the Chief Executive Officer of petroleumprice.ng, Jeremiah Olatide, warned that relying heavily on a single refinery for petrol supply could expose the country to supply shocks. He noted that the refinery currently supplies around 50 million litres of petrol daily, accounting for roughly 90 per cent of Nigeria’s estimated consumption. While acknowledging the progress made in boosting local refining, he warned that such concentration creates significant energy security risks. Olatide suggested that a more balanced supply structure combining local refining and imports would strengthen national energy security. In his view, a ratio of about 70 per cent local supply and 30 per cent imports would provide a safer balance. He also criticised restrictions on petrol import licences, arguing that the policy artificially boosted the refinery’s market share. While supporting local refining, he said market competition should be allowed to develop naturally, noting that competitive pricing combined with access to crude oil in naira could gradually eliminate the need for imports. Nigeria has struggled for decades with fuel supply challenges due to the poor performance of state-owned refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna, which forced the country to depend heavily on imported petrol. However, the commissioning of the 650,000-barrel-per-day Dangote refinery in Lagos has significantly reshaped the downstream petroleum sector by increasing domestic refining capacity and reducing reliance on imports. Amid the shift, calls for government intervention are growing. The Nigeria Labour Congress warned that the dominance of a single supplier in such a critical sector could expose consumers to price exploitation if left unchecked. The labour union argued that monopolies are harmful to economic stability and called for temporary price regulation to protect consumers. According to the union, government engagement with the refinery operator could help establish a controlled pricing framework while other policy measures such as reducing taxes and levies on petroleum products could help lower pump prices. Labour leaders also urged the government to revive public refineries and support other private refiners to encourage competition in the sector. Economist Aliyu Alias similarly warned that Nigeria risks drifting into a market structure where a single supplier largely determines petrol prices due to the absence of strong competition. He explained that even though recent price reductions have been welcomed by consumers, market dominance allows suppliers to adjust prices at their discretion. Alias urged the government to accelerate efforts to restore domestic refining capacity to ensure multiple suppliers compete in the market. Members of the organised private sector also

The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, has relieved the state Head of Service, Alhaji Abdullahi Musa, of his position with immediate effect. This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Tofa. According to the statement, the decision is part of ongoing efforts by the administration to reposition the state civil service to enhance efficiency, discipline, and improved service delivery across government institutions. It stated that the move forms part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening the operations of the state’s public service. The governor also commended the outgoing Head of Service for his contributions and dedication to the development of Kano State during his time in office. He wished him success in his future endeavours and prayed for continued progress in all aspects of his life. Yusuf further directed the Permanent Secretary, Administration and General Services at the Cabinet Office, Hajiya Bilkisu Shehu Maimota, to serve in an acting capacity pending the appointment of a substantive Head of Service. The statement added that Musa had been instructed to hand over the responsibilities of the office to the acting Head of Service not later than Wednesday, March 11, 2026. The development comes amid recent political realignments in the state following the governor’s defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party to the All Progressives Congress, a move that has prompted adjustments within the state’s political and administrative structures. The shift has also led to changes among political appointees and government officials as the administration aligns with the new party structure while pursuing reforms within the civil service.

As Nigeria experiences an intense early-year heatwave, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that millions of residents may face extreme heat stress. With temperatures exceeding 40°C in several parts of the country and humidity levels worsening the discomfort, health experts are advising Nigerians to take precautionary measures to prevent heat-related illnesses. In an advisory released on Tuesday, March 10, NiMet described the current weather conditions as a serious health concern. States expected to face the most severe heat include Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Kogi, Nasarawa, Anambra, Abia, Ebonyi and Cross River, as well as the Federal Capital Territory. Other northern states such as Taraba, Adamawa, Plateau, Kaduna, Zamfara and Sokoto have also been placed on high alert. According to the agency, prolonged exposure to extreme heat could lead to dehydration, fatigue, headaches, thermal discomfort and reduced productivity. Vulnerable groups including pregnant women, children, the elderly and Muslims observing Ramadan are considered particularly at risk. Residents in affected areas have already begun adjusting their daily routines, with many choosing to remain indoors during peak sunshine hours. The combined effects of heat and humidity raise the heat index, making temperatures feel hotter and placing additional strain on the body’s natural cooling system. Tips to Stay Safe During the Heatwave Stay hydrated:Drink at least two to three litres of water daily, even if you do not feel thirsty, to replace fluids lost through sweating. Eat water-rich foods:Consume fruits such as watermelon, oranges, cucumbers and pineapple to help maintain hydration. Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen dehydration. Avoid peak sunlight hours:Reduce outdoor activities between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., when temperatures and sunlight are most intense. Dress appropriately:Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting cotton clothing that allows air circulation and reflects sunlight. Protect yourself outdoors:Use sunscreen and carry umbrellas, hats or sunglasses when stepping outside. Keep indoor spaces cool:Use fans or air conditioners where available. Keep curtains and windows closed during the day to block heat and open them at night to improve ventilation. Reduce strenuous activities:Avoid intense exercise or long outdoor walks during the heatwave. Outdoor workers are advised to take regular breaks in shaded areas. Cool your body regularly:Take cool showers or baths and place damp cloths on areas such as the neck or wrists to help lower body temperature. Look out for others:Do not leave children, elderly individuals or pets inside parked vehicles or poorly ventilated spaces. Regularly check on neighbours or relatives with underlying health conditions. Use oral rehydration solutions when necessary:In cases of excessive sweating, particularly among children, oral rehydration solutions may help restore lost electrolytes. Symptoms of Heat-Related Illness Heat Exhaustion:Heavy sweating, pale or clammy skin, dizziness, nausea, weakness and a rapid pulse. Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency):Extremely high body temperature above 40°C, confusion, hot and dry skin, breathing difficulties, seizures or loss of consciousness. When to Seek Medical Help Health authorities advise seeking immediate medical attention if someone experiences confusion, fainting, seizures, persistent vomiting, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or stops sweating despite feeling extremely hot. Experts say staying hydrated, seeking shade and reducing prolonged exposure to sunlight remain the most effective ways to stay safe as the country continues to face unusually high temperatures.

China on Monday described Iran’s decision to appoint Mojtaba Khamenei as the country’s new supreme leader following the killing of his father, Ali Khamenei, as an internal matter, while stressing its opposition to any attempt to target him. The Israel Defense Forces had earlier warned that it could target any successor to the former Iranian leader, who was killed more than a week ago during the first wave of strikes carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran. Speaking on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told reporters that Iran’s decision to appoint Mojtaba Khamenei was made in accordance with its constitution. He added that China opposes interference in the internal affairs of other nations under any pretext and emphasised that Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity must be respected. Meanwhile, Israel and the United States have continued their military strikes against Iran in recent days. Tehran has responded by launching waves of missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and several Gulf states hosting American military forces.

Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon have killed at least 394 people over the past week, including 83 children and 42 women, the country’s health minister said on Sunday, as Israel expanded its attacks to a hotel in central Beirut. Lebanon was drawn into the escalating Middle East conflict on Monday after the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel. The strikes were carried out in response to the killing of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during a U.S.–Israeli military campaign against Iran. Lebanon’s Health Minister, Rakan Nassereddine, said during a press conference that nine rescue workers were among those killed. He condemned what he described as attacks on civilians, medical teams, and ambulances. “These are civilians being targeted, not, as they claim, military personnel and military installations. They are targeting homes, paramedics and the health sector,” Nassereddine said, adding that “the pace of the massacres has increased in the past 48 hours.” A previous casualty figure released on Saturday had placed the death toll at 294. Israel has continued its strikes against Hezbollah despite a 2024 ceasefire aimed at ending a previous round of fighting that began in 2023 when the group attacked Israel in support of its Palestinian ally Hamas in Gaza. Following Hezbollah’s latest attacks on Monday, Israeli forces have launched several waves of airstrikes across Lebanon and deployed ground troops to areas near the border. Early Sunday, Lebanon’s health ministry said an Israeli airstrike struck a hotel room in central Beirut, killing four people and injuring 10 others. Israel’s military said it had carried out a “precise strike” targeting senior commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’s Quds Force, which oversees Iran’s foreign military operations. In the southern town of Ghazieh, an Israeli attack destroyed a building, with solar panels seen scattered across the rubble as rescue workers searched for survivors. Another strike in the village of Sir al-Gharbiyeh killed at least 11 people on Sunday morning, according to Lebanon’s health ministry. The minister said the victims included children and warned that several people were still trapped under the debris. A resident, Ali Youssef Taha, told AFP that a family had been asleep inside the building when Israeli warplanes struck, describing the incident as a “massacre.” The town’s mayor, Saadallah Mohammed Maatouk, said about 500 families were sheltering in the area but vowed that the community would remain resilient. “What happened will not deter us, and we remain steadfast,” he said. Meanwhile, the Israeli military renewed its warning for residents living south of Lebanon’s Litani River, roughly 30 kilometres from the Israeli border, to evacuate the area. Israel also reported that two of its soldiers were killed during combat in southern Lebanon the first Israeli troop fatalities since the latest offensive began on March 2. AFP