Russia will refer women who do not want to have children to psychologists under new health guidelines designed to address a systemic demographic crisis.

Russia’s dwindling birth rate has been one of President Vladimir Putin’s main worries during his 25-year rule and with Moscow having sent hundreds of thousands of young men to the front in Ukraine over the last four years, the problem has only worsened.

Under new guidelines from the health ministry for reproductive health checks, doctors will ask women how many children they want to have.

If the woman answers zero, “it is recommended to send the patient to a consultation with a medical psychologist with the goal of forming a positive attitude towards having children.”

The recommendations were approved in late February but only picked up by state media this week.

The Kremlin chief casts Russia’s shrinking population as a matter of national survival — warning in 2024 Russia faced “extinction” if it did not boost birth rates.

Russia’s birth rate is running at a 200-year low of around 1.4 per woman — far below the 2.1 that demographers say is necessary for a stable population.

In recent years Moscow has tightened abortion rules and passed bills to make so-called “child-free propaganda” illegal.

Large families are heralded as national heroes and offered a host of financial and social benefits from the state.

Aprokorepublic

King Charles III says Nigeria has “profoundly enriched” the
British culture in more ways than one.

The monarch spoke on Wednesday while delivering a speech at
the state banquet hosted in honour of President Bola Tinubu and his wife,
Oluremi Tinubu.

The president and the first lady are in the United Kingdom
for a state visit — the first by a Nigerian leader in 37 years.

King Charles III described the bond between Nigeria and the
UK as enduring, adding that Britons “cherish their personal connection to
Nigeria”.

“We in the United Kingdom are blessed that so many people of
Nigerian heritage, having chosen Britain as their home, are now at the heart of
British life through excelling at the highest levels of business, technology,
academia, law, science, sport, literature and the arts, and public service,” he
said.

“I have met so many of these quiet heroes in our schools,
businesses, National Health Service and universities, including countless young
people who have flourished through the work of my King’s Trust over the last
fifty years. Only last week, I was delighted to host a rather lively group of
them for a ‘Jollof and Tea’ party at St. James’s Palace. I was firmly assured
that the Jollof was only the best: Nigerian, of course… or perhaps Ghanaian or
Senegalese. Diplomatically, I cannot remember!

“But who could have imagined that, when I first visited
Nigeria thirty-six years ago today, so many of those I might have met would
have gone on to have such an impact in the United Kingdom. From Afrobeats
filling our concert halls and Nollywood captivating our screens, to stars
competing in our Premier League and adjudicating our highest courts, so much of
Britain’s culture is, in truth, profoundly enriched by Nigeria.

“Whether they are Nigerians who have chosen Britain as their
adopted place to invest, trade or study, or Britons who cherish their personal
connection to Nigeria, they all represent a living bridge of over half a
million people who connect our nations, Mr President, and help make our
cultures richer, our shared security stronger and our economies more
prosperous.”

King Charles III added that the state visit is an
“opportunity to celebrate the fact that Nigeria is investing in Britain’s
future as much as Britain is investing in Nigeria’s”.

“The friendship between our two countries, Mr President, is
a partnership of equals that has brought us both enormous benefits. It has been
described to me as a deeply spiritual connection – beyond churches and mosques
– a deep bond through which we have strengthened our shared security, ensured
our economies are more prosperous, and empowered each other to believe in a
more hopeful future,” the monarch said.

Aprokorepublic

By Ejike Abana, ABS Awka

A commission of inquiry constituted by the Anambra State Government has affirmed Chief Gibson Nwosu as the lawful traditional ruler of Awka, bringing fresh clarity to a protracted leadership crisis that has polarised the community and raised concerns about the integrity of customary governance processes.

The panel, chaired by retired Justice Paul Obidigwe, submitted its report to Governor Chukwuma Soludo after weeks of sittings marked by detailed submissions and testimonies. In all, the commission received 32 memoranda and heard 28 oral testimonies from stakeholders, including kingmakers, community leaders, and other interested parties.

Presenting the report, Mr Obidigwe said the panel found no lawful basis for the purported dethronement of Igwe Nwosu. According to him, the process fell short of the requirements of due process and breached the principle of fair hearing, rendering the action “unlawful, invalid, and of no legal effect.”

The commission further determined that the emergence of Chief Austin Ndigwe as a rival claimant to the stool did not comply with laid-down procedures. It held that both his selection and enthronement contravened statutory provisions guiding the appointment of traditional rulers in the state, thereby stripping his claim of legitimacy.

Mr Obidigwe described the crisis as not only a local dispute but also “an affront to constituted authority,” warning that disregard for established legal frameworks in traditional institutions could undermine public order and governance.

Background to the dispute

The Awka traditional stool tussle has lingered for months, with factions within the community divided over the legitimacy of the existing leadership structure. Attempts at internal reconciliation reportedly failed, prompting appeals to the state government to intervene.

The dispute reflects broader tensions often associated with succession processes in traditional institutions, where customary practices intersect with statutory regulations. In Anambra, as in many parts of Nigeria, the recognition of traditional rulers is subject to both community customs and state laws, creating potential flashpoints when procedures are contested.

Government response and next steps

Receiving the report, Governor Soludo said the state government would subject the findings to careful review and subsequently issue a White Paper to determine the official position and outline actionable steps.

Mr Soludo recalled that the government had initially refrained from вмешment, allowing the Awka community space to resolve the matter internally. However, he said the state stepped in after it became evident that local mechanisms had failed to produce a consensus.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, stressing that Anambra must remain a state where legal frameworks guide both formal governance and traditional institutions.

The governor also sent a broader signal to communities across the state, warning against situations where multiple individuals claim the same traditional stool.

“No community will be allowed to have more than one traditional ruler,” he said, adding that the government’s intervention was not intended to create winners or losers but to restore order and legality.

“There is no victor and no vanquished,” the governor stated, urging all parties to embrace reconciliation in the interest of peace and communal development.

The Kaduna state government has compensated the residents of
Malali Low-Cost, whose houses were demolished by the administration of Nasir
el-Rufai, with new plots of land.

Bashir Garba Ibrahim, director general of Kaduna Geographic
Information Service (KADGIS), who presented the land titles to the
beneficiaries, said that the gesture was aimed at fulfilling Uba Sani
administration’s commitment to ensure justice for the victims.

He said the compensation with the land titles is the outcome
of a stakeholders meeting, which took place on January 21, and resolved to
investigate the circumstances around the demolition.

While counselling against reselling the plots of land,
Ibrahim advised the beneficiaries to develop the land quickly.

“We want you to become homeowners and contribute to the
growth of our state,” he said.

While responding to the gesture of the state government on
behalf of the beneficiaries, Mohammed Auwal, chairman of the former Malali
Low-Cost residents, expressed gratitude to the governor for addressing their
concerns.

Auwal appreciated the director-general for facilitating the
new land allocation after years of struggle to get compensation.

The Kaduna State Development and Property Company (KSDPC)
had given the residents of Malali Low-Cost a seven-day notice to evict the
community in October 2020.

Although residents protested the short notice and the need
to give them the right of first refusal, the decision was shelved at the time.

However, in March 2021, another three-day notice was served
to the residents, and after the expiration of the notice, more than 80
structures were demolished.

Aprokorepublic

Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, former first lady of Ondo state,
says she has joined the Labour Party (LP) in Imo state.

In a Facebook post shared on
Tuesday, Anyanwu-Akeredolu said she attended the national executive council
(NEC) and stakeholders meeting of the party in Abuja, the nation’s capital,
after joining the LP in Imo state.

She said the meeting, held on March 17, was well attended,
adding that the venue could barely accommodate the number of participants.

Anyanwu-Akeredolu commended the party for its organisational
structure across different levels.

“I wish to commend the Labour Party for the well-structured
outline of positions across State, LGA and Ward levels,” she said.

“It reflects seriousness about inclusiveness and internal
democracy. I must particularly highlight the inclusion of the position of
Deputy Chairman (Female).

“This is a bold and intentional step in a political
environment that has historically confined women to the role of Woman Leader —
often a token position without real influence.

“This provision signals that women are not just
participants, but decision-makers. I urge women across the country to seize
this opportunity.”

Anyanwu-Akeredolu also praised the leadership of Nenadi
Usman, national chairman of the LP.

“Importantly, we must recognize the historic moment we are
in. The Labour Party today is led by a woman — Senator Nenadi Usman,” she said.

“For the first time, a major political party in Nigeria is
under female leadership. This is not just symbolic — it is transformational.
For me, it is exhilarating.

“It provides evidence to our daughters that women can lead
at the highest levels. The psychological impact of this cannot be overstated.
It is a wake-up call for women and girls to be more and do more.”

She called on Nigerian women to join the party in large
numbers.

“I therefore call on Nigerian women who believe that they
matter in the scheme of things in this country to join the Labour Party in
great numbers — for themselves, and for their children,” she said.

“Women are natural nurturers. That instinct, when translated
into leadership, can drive compassionate, people-centered governance — exactly
what Nigeria needs at this time.”

Anyanwu-Akeredolu also suggested the inclusion of a female
child in the party logo.

“Finally, I draw attention to our party logo — Papa, Mama,
Pikin. While powerful, the depiction of the child as male reflects a bias we
must correct,” she said.

“I recommend the inclusion of a female child in the logo to
send a clear message of equality. Let Labour Party lead this change —
structurally, symbolically, and culturally.”

Anyanwu-Akeredolu added that she is aspiring to represent
Imo east senatorial district in the 2027 election.

She previously sought the Imo east senatorial ticket of the
All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2023 elections but withdrew from
the party’s primary, citing irregularities in the process.

Aprokorepublic

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has
officially declared Friday, March 20, 2026, the day of Eid-El-Fitr.

He made this announcement on Wednesday evening, stating that
the Shawwal crescent moon was not sighted in Nigeria.

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of
fasting, and is widely observed by Muslims across the world with prayers and
feasting.

Recall that this declaration aligns with the announcement
from Saudi Arabian authorities, who also confirmed that the crescent moon
marking the beginning of Shawwal was not sighted on Wednesday, setting Friday
as the date for the celebration.

Aprokorepublic

Tunji Disu, the inspector-general of police (IGP), has
presented N2.4 billion in cheques to 1,075 beneficiaries and next of kin of
deceased police officers under the group life assurance and IGP family welfare
schemes.

The presentation ceremony took place in Abuja on Wednesday
at the force headquarters.

Anthony Placid, spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force
(NPF), said in a statement that the cheques cover policy years for 2018/2019,
2020/2021, 2021/2022, 2022/2023, 2024/2025 and 2025/2026, including outstanding
insurance claims.

Placid quoted the IGP as saying that the ceremony is a
solemn recognition of the sacrifices made by officers who lost their lives in
the line of duty.

While noting that the presentation goes beyond financial
assistance, he said the gesture reflects the force’s duty to honour the
bravery, service, and dedication of its fallen heroes.

Lydia Ameh, a force insurance officer, said the
disbursements “reflect the determination of the IGP Olatunji Disu to prioritise
the welfare of officers and their families.”

Ameh said the payments represent recoveries from
long-standing insurance obligations.

Aprokorepublic

Tunji Alausa, minister of education, says the federal government is advanced a “major partnership” with Coventry University in the United Kingdom (UK) to make British degree programmes accessible in Nigeria.

Alausa announced the partnership on Wednesday on the sidelines of President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to the UK at the invitation of King Charles III.

Tinubu departed Abuja on Tuesday for a two-day state visit to London, accompanied by his wife and other top government officials.

The state visit, billed to end on Thursday, represents the highest level of diplomatic engagement hosted by the British monarchy and marks the first visit of such scale by a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years.

Upon arrival, a Nigerian delegation comprising top ministers, including Alausa, and some governors welcomed the president at the London Stansted airport at 3:18 pm.

‘BRINGING GLOBAL OPPORTUNITY HOME’

In a post shared on X, the minister said he met with representatives from Coventry University to advance a key partnership between Nigeria and the UK in the area of degree programmes.

“I’m in London with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and we are already making real progress — advancing a major partnership with Coventry University to bring UK degrees to Nigeria. This is personal,” Alausa wrote.

“For too long, families have had to send their children thousands of miles away in search of quality education. We are changing that.

“With Coventry University Nigeria, our students will be able to earn fully accredited UK degrees — at a significantly lower cost — without leaving the country.”

He said the government’s aim is to allow Nigerian parents to enjoy having their children at home while still receiving a world-class UK education.

According to him, the government is proposing to establish a campus at Alaro, Lagos, which will offer bachelor’s and master’s programmes across STEMM, business, and TVET, with admissions expected between the third and fourth quarters of 2026 (subject to approvals).

“Beyond access, this is about building Nigeria’s human capital — developing the skills, talent, and workforce needed to drive innovation, productivity, and long-term national growth,” Alausa said.

“We are bringing global opportunity home — where it belongs.”

Aprokorepublic

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says Nigeria’s balance of
payments (BOP) surplus fell to $2.67 billion in the fourth quarter (Q4) of
2025.

Data released by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on
Wednesday showed that the surplus fell from the $4.6 billion recorded in the
third quarter (Q3) of 2025.

“Nigeria’s overall balance of payments for Q4 2025 resulted
in a lower surplus of US$2.67 billion,” the apex bank said.

The BOP is a record of all financial transactions made
between a country and the rest of the world over a specific period — usually a
year or a quarter.

A surplus occurs when a nation gets more money from
international transactions (exports, income, financial inflows) than it pays
out, resulting in a net inflow of foreign currency.

The decline in the BOP position was reportedly driven
largely by a sharp decrease in the current account surplus, which dropped by
65.52 percent to $1.4 billion from $4.06 billion in Q3.

According to the report, “the current account balance
recorded a lower surplus of US$1.40 billion in Q4 2025,” reflecting pressures
from the trade and income components.

It also represents a significant drop from the $4.98 billion
posted in the corresponding period of 2024.

The CBN also said the decline was largely driven by a sharp
contraction in the goods account surplus, which dropped to $1.77 billion in Q4
2025 from $4.53 billion in the preceding quarter.

“Major contributors to the CAB are balance on goods account
decreased to US$1.77bn from US$4.53bn (-60.93%), decrease in crude oil exports
from US$8.52bn to US$6.77bn (20.54%), decrease in refined petroleum product
exports from US$2.29bn to US$1.97bn (13.97%), and increase non-oil imports from
US$7.02bn to US$8.77bn (24.93%),” CBN added.

In terms of goods account balance, the report showed that
total exports fell to $13.36 billion from $15.31 billion in Q3, mainly due to
lower earnings from crude oil, gas, and refined petroleum products.

Crude oil exports declined by 20.54 percent to $6.77
billion, gas exports dipped slightly to $2.24 billion from $2.31 billion,
refined petroleum product exports also fell by 13.97 percent to $1.97 billion.

The regulator said import pressures intensified as non-oil
imports rose by 24.93 percent to $8.77 billion, while refined petroleum product
imports increased to $2.48 billion.

Beyond trade, the CBN said Nigeria’s primary income account
recorded higher outflows, worsening the current account position.

“Net out-payments rose by 47.30 percent to $3.27 billion,
largely due to increased dividend and interest payments to foreign investors,”
the report added.

The report said the services account, however, showed a
slight improvement, with net outflows narrowing to $3.32 billion from $3.95
billion, supported by reduced spending on travel, communication, and other
service imports.

DIASPORA REMITTANCES INCREASED TO $6.21 BILLION

According to the report, the secondary income account,
largely driven by diaspora remittances, strengthened to $6.21 billion in Q4, up
from $5.7 billion in Q3.

The apex bank said personal transfers from Nigerians abroad
rose to $5.72 billion during the period.

On the financial account, the CBN said the economy recorded
higher net borrowing of $1.96 billion in Q4 2025, compared to $0.79 billion in
the previous quarter.

“Drivers of the financial account balance are; significant
decrease in portfolio investment assets, decreased Inflow of foreign direct
investment liabilities into the economy, increase in portfolio investment
liabilities, and accretion to the country’s reserve assets,” CBN added.

The report further noted that portfolio investment inflows
increased significantly to $5.27 billion from $2.51 billion, suggesting renewed
foreign interest in Nigerian financial assets.

However, the CBN said foreign direct investment (FDI)
inflows weakened to $1.11 billion, down from $1.46 billion in Q3.

The report said other investment liabilities recorded a
reversal of $1.68 billion, while Nigerian investments abroad saw outflows under
both direct and portfolio investment categories.

Further indicators showed that “net errors and omissions
narrowed to $3.36 billion from a negative $4.85 billion in Q3”.

Despite the weaker external position, the report showed that
the country’s external reserves rose to $45.75 billion at the end of December
2025, representing a 6.97 percent increase from $42.77 billion recorded at the
end of September.

Aprokorepublic