Author: Nigeriabrief

Research Highlights Evidence Use Among Nigerian Policymakers Recent research indicates that senior Nigerian policymakers with doctoral degrees are significantly more inclined to incorporate diverse forms of research evidence into their decision-making processes compared to those without advanced academic qualifications. This finding emerges from a study published in February in the journal Policy Sciences, which surveyed approximately 196 senior policymakers across 13 federal departments and both houses of Congress. Study Overview and Methodology Entitled “Patterns of Evidence Use in Nigerian Policymaking: Insights from Latent Class Analysis,” the study categorizes evidence users within Nigeria’s policymaking landscape into three distinct groups. Researchers identified…

Keir Starmer Refuses to Step Down Amid Resignations British Prime Minister Keir Starmer asserted his determination to continue governing the country on Tuesday, disregarding intensifying calls from ministers and Members of Parliament (MPs) urging him to resign. Despite facing mounting pressure, Starmer’s resolve suggests he plans to maintain his leadership amidst a turbulent political landscape. In an assertive stance, Starmer challenged any potential leadership contenders to come forward and contest his position. However, the recent resignation of two junior ministers raises questions about the stability of his leadership, indicating a possible chain reaction within his cabinet. “The Labour Party has…

Emotional Toll of Detention on 85-Year-Old French Widow ORVAUX, France (AP) – As darkness descended on the Louisiana immigration detention facility, an unsettling silence was soon broken by the sound of children crying. Marie-Thérèse Ross, an 85-year-old widow of a U.S. military veteran, shared her experience with The Associated Press during an interview in her hometown of Orvaux, France. Ross made international headlines following her arrest last month, part of a broader crackdown on immigration under the Trump administration. In the April 1 raid in Alabama, Ross found herself in custody on suspicion of overstaying her visa, spending 16 days…

Inflation Figures Reveal War’s Impact on the Economy Recent inflation statistics hint at significant economic repercussions stemming from the ongoing war with Iran. Analysts are calling attention to how geopolitical tensions have influenced market dynamics, impacting everything from consumer prices to employment rates. This situation poses a complex landscape for policymakers aiming to balance economic growth with inflation control. Late-Night Hosts Gather for a Special Farewell In an emotionally charged reunion, various late-night television hosts came together to honor Stephen Colbert ahead of his final show. Colbert, known for his sharp wit and cultural commentary, has shaped the late-night landscape…

Technology Leaders Discuss Agility and Leadership at Johannesburg Conference During one of the four breakout sessions at the Melrose Arch Marriott Hotel in Johannesburg, technology executives convened to discuss “The Importance of Agility,” shedding light on essential leadership transitions that modern CIOs must navigate. Nicole Borges, CIO of Global Markets at Standard Bank Group, and Paskaran Pather, Executive for Hospitality, Manufacturing, and Pharmaceuticals at Liquid Intelligent Technologies, opened the discussion by outlining three critical shifts integral to the CIO role. They emphasized the need to develop capabilities centered around these shifts, urging CIOs to evolve from mere facilitators to strategic…

Naira Shows Stability in April Amid Declining Foreign Exchange Inflows The naira demonstrated remarkable stability in April, even as foreign exchange (FX) inflows into the market experienced a significant decline. This resilience occurred despite weak import demand, which alleviated some pressure on the local currency amidst escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Foreign Exchange Inflows Drop Significantly According to a report from Quest Merchant Bank, foreign exchange inflows fell by 30% month-on-month, totaling $2.9 billion in April. This decline was mainly attributed to restrictions on foreign investor participation, fueled by rising tensions between the United States and Iran. Naira…

May 12, 2026, 7:37 a.m. ET James Maddison is eager to dive back into action after a lengthy absence, aiming to assist Tottenham in securing their place in the Premier League during what he describes as an unforgettable season. After missing competitive play for a year due to a severe knee injury, Maddison made his return in Spurs’ 1-1 draw against Leeds. This match left Tottenham precariously positioned just two points above the relegation zone. In a spirited cameo, the 29-year-old almost earned a penalty in the dying moments of the game. He expressed that any apprehensions about his comeback…

Challenging Medical Care and Mental Health in Detention Centers In 2019, Xiaoman Ding received a diagnosis of a pituitary tumor that resulted in severe headaches, sometimes rendering her unable to see or walk. While seeking medical treatment, she faced legal troubles, being arrested in the Santa Ana immigration court last June and subsequently detained at the Adelanto ICE processing center. During her confinement, she was given only Tylenol and ibuprofen, instead of her necessary medications for symptom management. By July, Ding described her pain as “unbearable.” In a complaint to a nurse at the detention center, she expressed suicidal thoughts…

Trump Advocates for Possible Suspension of Federal Gas Tax President Donald Trump expressed his support on Monday for suspending the federal gas tax “until it’s appropriate.” This proposed measure aims to alleviate financial pressure on Americans grappling with rising fuel costs. Currently pegged at around 18 cents per gallon, suspending the gas tax would necessitate Congressional approval. When reporters inquired whether he would also freeze tax increases, Trump affirmed his stance, saying, “Yes.” With regard to the duration of the tax suspension, Trump indicated his intention to keep it in place “until the appropriate time,” while highlighting that even a…

Shifting Perspectives on Technology Investments in South AfricaAs organizations in South Africa face mounting pressure to cut costs, mitigate risk, and demonstrate tangible returns on technology investments, many are reconsidering how their key technology decisions are guided. A growing number of companies are questioning whether vendor timelines should dictate technology strategy, rather than aligning with actual business priorities. The technology landscape is shifting, particularly for organizations operating platforms such as SAP, Oracle, and VMware. Many are reassessing traditional support and upgrade models that require adherence to externally imposed roadmaps. These models often overlook specific operational readiness and budget constraints, leading…