Mines Minister Rufin Beltoungou said the government would formally ​suspend activity at the site in Zamboye ⁠until further notice following the disaster ​on Tuesday.

Beltoungou said the dead were of 35 Central ​Africans, 12 Cameroonians and two Chadians.

A senior official at a local mining association had said on Wednesday ​that more than 100 people had ​been killed.

A prosecutor said rescue efforts were continuing, ‌and ⁠said the number of casualties was still being established.

Artisanal mining is a vital source of work and income across Africa, but ​informal operations often ​function ⁠with limited oversight, inadequate safety measures and little emergency capacity, making ​collapses and other fatal accidents frequent.

Cameroon ​has ⁠pledged to formalise parts of the sector, seeking to improve regulation, safety and tax ⁠collection.

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The 93-year-old leader arrived at Yaounde’s Nsimalen International Airport aboard a chartered flight from Geneva, Switzerland, after spending more than 10 weeks abroad, local media reported.

Biya, the world’s oldest serving head of state, left Cameroon on June 7 for what the civil cabinet described as “a brief private stay in Europe”.

The president, accompanied by First Lady Chantal Biya, arrived at about 4:45 p.m. local time on Thursday before departing in a motorcade for the Etoudi Unity Palace.

He waved through a half-open window to hundreds of supporters of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), who lined the capital’s streets to welcome him home.

The supporters waved party colours and banners hailing the president as the motorcade made its way through Yaounde following his arrival at the airport.

Biya’s prolonged absence fuelled widespread speculation about his health and ability to govern, in spite of repeated assurances from authorities that the president would return to Cameroon.

His absence also raised questions about political succession in a country where power remained highly centralised around the presidency and concerns persisted over a potential transition.

Opposition politicians had called on the Constitutional Council to determine whether someone should temporarily assume the presidency during Biya’s prolonged absence from the country.

The council, however, took no action on the opposition’s request, leaving Biya in office throughout his absence and without an interim successor being designated.

Under Cameroon’s Constitution, in the absence of a vice president, the president of the Senate should assume interim duties if the presidency became vacant through death, resignation or permanent incapacity.

Biya had not appointed a vice president in spite of the reintroduction of the position in April, while critics said the unclear succession framework created uncertainty over a potential transition.

They argued that the absence of a clear succession arrangement could complicate the transfer of power should Biya became permanently unable to govern the Central African nation.

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This is contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by Raphael Oni, Special Assistant on Digital Media and Public Diplomacy, Office of the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

It said the Minister of State, Foreign Affairs, Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye, said this during a virtual roundtable on: “South Africa’s Xenophobia in Comparative Perspective,” convened by the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs.

Enikanolaiye was quoted as saying that the crisis must be tackled through stronger migration governance, responsible leadership, and deeper people-to-people ties across the continent.

The minister said that Nigeria views the challenge that surrounds Afrophobia as one that must be understood without denial or exaggeration.

According to him, the violence is bearing particularly African, post-colonial and post-apartheid character, hence the more accurate term, Afrophobia.

He decried the contradiction of citizens from countries that stood with South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, now being targeted as unwanted outsiders.

Enikanolaiye also said that the ministry had directed the NIIA to undertake a comprehensive study documenting Nigeria’s support for the liberation struggle.

He said Nigeria’s financial commitment was over 60 billion dollars, in addition to the nationalisation of British Petroleum, scholarships, and hospitality extended to South African leaders in Nigeria.

Enikanolaiye said, “The relationship between Nigeria and South Africa is not reducible to trade statistics or diplomatic communiqués.
“There is history in that relationship. There is blood, sacrifice and solidarity in that history,” he said.

He expressed concern over the loss of lives, stressing that since June, 2022, not less than 90 Nigerians had been killed in Afrophobic violence, with fresh attacks and displacements recorded in 2026.

He warned that the continued violence undermined South Africa’s international reputation, eroded investor confidence, threatened regional integration, and diminished the moral authority earned during its liberation struggle.

“To break the cycle, Nigeria is urging South African authorities to strengthen migration systems that are transparent and humane, and to ensure that the enforcement of immigration laws remained solely with the state,” he said.

The minister cautioned against vigilantism and called on political leaders to guard their language, saying rhetorics that painted migrants as criminals or job thieves fostered an environment where violence thrive.

He underscored the need for public discourse grounded in facts and data, rather than misinformation and social media rumors.

“Nigeria calls for the full activation of existing Nigeria–South Africa early-warning and rapid-response mechanisms to detect and defuse tensions before they escalate,” he stated.

Enikanolaiye reiterated the need to deepen people-to-people diplomacy.

He said this was to be done by mobilising businesses, universities, religious and traditional institutions, youth groups, civil society, and the media to rebuild trust, and promote a shared African identity.

He said that Nigeria, together with Ghana, would be presenting the matter at the next Session of the African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government.

While acknowledging South Africa’s willingness to discuss push and pull factors, he insisted Nigeria’s priority attention must be given to the hate-driven violence and attacks causing anguish among African nationals.

“What Africa needs now is not mere tolerance, but belonging to a continent where a Nigerian in Johannesburg and a South African in Lagos are regarded first as Africans with equal dignity,” he said.

Enikanolaiye reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare and protection of Nigerians abroad, while citing Tinubu’s direct intervention in the recent repatriation of Nigerians from South Africa.

He commended the heads of mission in Pretoria and Johannesburg for ensuring that the exercise was carried out promptly.

The minister also assured of Nigeria’s resolve to work with South Africa, the AU, ECOWAS and other partners to ensure African integration.

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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued by its Spokesperson, Mr Kimiebi Ebienfa.

He stated that the returnees were accompanied by two officials from the Consulate-General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, South Africa.

He noted that the repatriation was facilitated through the procurement of flight tickets by good-spirited private individuals, whose generous support enabled their safe return to Nigeria.

He added that upon arrival, the returnees were received by Amb. Haruna Ali-Gombe, the Director, African Affairs Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who welcomed them on behalf of the Federal Government.

Ebienfa said “they were handed over to relevant government agencies for necessary documentation and profiling ahead of their reunification with their families.”

He reiterated Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare and safe return of all Nigerian citizens abroad, and profound appreciation to the Nigerian Mission in South Africa.

He expressed appreciation to the private individuals who sponsored the exercise and agencies involved in ensuring smooth reception and reintegration process.

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The digital system, launched at international airports, allows eligible travelers to apply for travel authorisation online before travelling to South Africa, local media reported on Wednesday.

Ramaphosa said the initiative would make travelling to the country faster and more predictable, thereby helping to attract more international visitors.

He said increased tourist arrivals would stimulate activities in accommodation, restaurants, tours, air travel and other services connected to the tourism industry.

According to him, the system was developed partly from experience gained during South Africa’s hosting of the G20, when travellers from countries such as China, India and Indonesia were processed to attend meetings.

He said the government planned to expand the system to more countries.

The president added that the digital platform could eventually be extended to work, study and other immigration applications.

Ramaphosa described tourism as an important component of South Africa’s economic development, saying increased visitor numbers would create opportunities for local communities and support job creation.

He said the launch was part of efforts to build a more accessible and technology-driven tourism environment.

The president said simplifying travel procedures and expanding digital services would help create favorable conditions for international visitors and unlock the potential of the country’s tourism sector.

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A disturbing scene in Effurun as a suspect sits restrained moments before the fatal shooting that has sparked public outrage and prompted disciplinary action within the Nigeria Police Force. The incident has renewed calls for accountability and an end to extra-judicial practices.

According to preliminary reports, operatives attached to the Effurun Area Command responded to credible intelligence from Benin Motor Park along the Warri–Sapele Expressway. The information concerned a suspect who had been apprehended by members of a transport union while allegedly attempting to waybill a parcel containing a Beretta pistol and four rounds of ammunition.

Police authorities stated that while efforts were underway to take the suspect into lawful custody, the team leader, ASP Nuhu Usman, discharged his firearm in what has been described as a clear violation of established regulations. The gunfire resulted in the death of the suspect.

In response, the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force has ordered the immediate transfer of the officer and his team to Force Headquarters in Abuja. They are expected to appear before the Force Disciplinary Committee for summary disciplinary proceedings and possible prosecution.

The Inspector-General of Police extended condolences to the family of the deceased and assured them that justice would be served in accordance with the law. He also urged members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding as both disciplinary and legal processes unfold.

Reaffirming its commitment to accountability, the Nigeria Police Force emphasized its zero-tolerance policy toward extra-judicial actions, abuse of authority, and any conduct that undermines public trust.

The statement was issued by Anthony Okon Placid, Deputy Commissioner of Police and Force Public Relations Officer, from Force Headquarters in Abuja.

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“We’ll do that, and then we’ll fill it up,” Trump told news station Local 12 on Wednesday, saying the move would push prices down.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) had earlier announced it would release a record amount of oil onto global markets.

The 32 member countries, including the United States, will release a total of 400 million barrels of crude, according to an IEA statement.

The U.S. Department of Energy said it plans to release 172 million barrels starting next week over a period of roughly four months.

According to the government, the U.S. strategic petroleum reserve is the world’s largest emergency stockpile of crude oil.

It was set up primarily to mitigate the effects of supply crises and meet international obligations.

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This is contained in a statement published on the website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) seen on Tuesday.

It explained that the arrests were part of a coordinated crackdown across several U.S. states carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials.

According to the DHS, the new names were added as part of an expanded nationwide enforcement operation targeting immigrants convicted of serious crimes.

It said that this was done under what it described as its “worst-of-the-worst” criminal immigrants programme.

The authorities claimed that the alleged offences linked to the newly listed individuals include wire fraud, mail fraud and identity theft, which posed significant financial and security risks.

”The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is highlighting the worst of the worst criminal aliens arrested by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

”Under Secretary Noem’s leadership, the men and women of DHS and ICE are fulfilling President Trump’s promise and carrying out mass deportations, starting with the worst of the worst,” the statement said.

The 18 Nigerians whose names feature on the latest list include Oluwaseyanu Afolabi; Olugbeminiyi Aderibigbe; Benjamin Ifebajo; Obinwanne Okeke; Kolawole Aminu; Oluwadamilola Ojo; Franklin Ibeabuchi; Alex Ogunshakin; and Joshua Ineh.

Others are Stephen Oseghale; Eghosa Obaretin; Adesina Lasisi; Ibrahim Ijaoba; Azeez Yinusa; Charles Akabuogu; Kelechi Umeh; Lotenna Umeadi; Donald Ehie; and Chukwudi Kalu.

The agency added that the deportation process would be carried out immediately in line with U.S. immigration laws.

Our correspodent reports that since the return of President Donald Trump to office in January 2025, the U.S. government has been enforcing a strict alien immigration policy.

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The UAE,  a United States–based international body of senior members of the Kegites Club worldwide, plans to host the tournament as part of its commitment to giving back to Nigerian society and strengthening national cohesion.

Oba Adeyeye’s offer was disclosed at the unveiling of the game’s mascot during a virtual ceremony on Tuesday

Speaking on behalf of the body, its President, Fayth Deleọla Daramọla, announced that the tournament will take place between May and June 2026 in Nigeria. The initiative aims to foster unity among members of the Kegites Club nationwide and to promote harmony among Nigerians across cultural, ethnic, and religious divides.

The Chairman of the Tournament’s Central Working Committee/Local Organising Committee, Dr. Edward Olu Alo, explained that the inspiration behind the project is rooted in the unifying power of sports. “Table tennis has always brought Nigerians together, irrespective of background. This tournament will further cement the spirit of unity in this challenging period in our nation’s history,” he said.

As part of its buildup activities, the UAE, also known as the Ẹgbẹ́ Àgbà Elemu, held a virtual meeting on Tuesday, December 2, when the official mascot for the tournament was unveiled.  Kabiyesi Adeyeye, who was represented by the Sooko Adimula Obalufon, Oba Olasoji Oladele, expressed delight at the event. He observed that the sport greatly helps in the development of the human mind, body and spirit. A left-handed player, the revered monarch expressed readiness to engage the two governors in demonstration games.  The virtual unveiling was attended by notable sports personalities, including Mr. Enitan Oshodi, Executive Vice President of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF).

Also in attendance were icons of the games, as well as senior members of the  Kegites Club.

Unveiling the mascot,  Dr. Alo noted that the design symbolises both the unifying force of table tennis and Nigeria’s cultural diversity.

Veteran sports journalist and tournament official Yomi Opakunle disclosed that the maiden edition will be exclusively for members of the Kegites Club across Nigeria’s four regions: West, East, North, and South. “Regional preliminaries will produce regional champions who will converge for the national finals. Attractive prize monies await the winners,” he said.

In his remarks, ITTF Vice President Oshodi commended the initiative, noting that the tournament aligns with the global celebration of 100 years of competitive table tennis in 2026. “We are pleased to see this effort coming from the Universal Archaivar Elders. I am also delighted that legendary Nigerian players are part of this moment. The ITTF will support the organisers with equipment and technical logistics,” he assured.

Another member, Olujimi Oluyinka, emphasised that the tournament is part of the elders’ efforts to reshape public perceptions of the Kegites Club. “We want to show the world that the Kegites Club has evolved beyond singing, dancing, or the famous one-finger salute. We are affecting humanity positively, and sports is a powerful platform to promote the unity in diversity we stand for.” He added that while the maiden edition is for Nigerian members alone, future editions will extend to Kegites across the world.

Also speaking, the Sooko Adimula Obalufon, offered prayers for the success of the event and described the initiative as a major turning point for private-sector involvement in youth and sports development in Nigeria.

The meeting featured reflections from several Nigerian table tennis legends, including nonagenarian Bilikisu Popoola, Nigeria’s first female representative at an international tournament (1969 World Cup, Munich), alongside Engore Toun, Olawunmi Majekodunmi, Kehinde Okenla, and others, many of whom expressed joy that table tennis was chosen among several potential sports.

The Universal Archaivar Elders is an international non-governmental organisation comprising Archaivar entities with over 35 years of membership in the Comradium, regardless of their past roles during their higher-institution years or thereafter. The group continues to demonstrate leadership through cultural preservation, community development, and global engagement.

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The U.S. president facilitated the signing of a peace agreement in Washington aimed at ending more than three decades of conflict in mineral-rich eastern Congo.

The ceremony took place at the Peace Institute, recently renamed the Donald Trump Institute of Peace.

Trump said the United States would conclude bilateral agreements with both countries on rare earth mining, adding that major U.S. firms would be sent to the region and “everybody’s going to make a lot of money.”

Eastern Congo’s vast deposits of strategic minerals have long fuelled the interests of foreign powers and armed groups.

Observers had speculated that the peace deal would align with U.S. economic priorities, with Washington applying political pressure to bring the presidents of Kinshasa and Kigali together – something African regional mediation efforts had failed to achieve.

Rwandan President Kagame said previous attempts to end the conflict had faltered, but Trump had succeeded where others had not.

Congolese President Tshisekedi tagged the agreement the beginning of a new and difficult path.

The two leaders exchanged a few gestures and did not shake hands.

The accord builds on a preliminary peace framework reached several months ago, committing both countries to respect territorial integrity, halt aggression, and cease support for armed groups.

However, regional analysts say it is unclear whether the agreement will actually end the decades-long conflict.

More important than the deal, they say, are talks in Doha that include representatives of the Rwanda-backed M23 militia, which earlier this year seized the provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu in the Kivu region and set up its own administration in the controlled territories.

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