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African Network Voice, Muhammad Murtala Square kaduna, Kaduna (2026)

15/09/2026

2027 ELECTION: INEC INTEGRATES NIN TO VERIFY AND CLEAN VOTER REGISTER

Electoral commission says move will strengthen register integrity ahead of general elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the integration of National Identification Numbers (NIN) into its voter registration system as part of efforts to audit, verify and clean the national voter register ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Acting Chairman of INEC, Prof. Rhoda Gumus, disclosed this on Tuesday while receiving members of the African Union (AU) Pre-Election Needs Assessment Mission at the Commission's headquarters in Abuja.

NIN integration and voter verification

According to the electoral commission, the integration of NIN is intended to support the verification of voter information and improve the integrity of the national register.

The exercise is part of wider preparations to strengthen the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

A credible voter register is essential to ensuring that eligible citizens can participate in elections and that electoral records are properly maintained.

AU assesses Nigeria's election preparedness

The announcement came as the African Union began its pre-election needs assessment mission in Nigeria.

The mission is focused on assessing INEC's preparedness for the 2027 elections, identifying potential gaps and providing recommendations to strengthen the electoral process.

The engagement provides an opportunity for the electoral commission and international stakeholders to discuss election administration, technology, security and public confidence.

What the development means for voters

The integration of NIN could help strengthen the processes used to verify voter information and identify irregularities in the register.

However, the effectiveness of the exercise will depend on clear procedures, accurate data and adequate safeguards for citizens' personal information.

ANV MEDIA NEWS ANALYSIS

The integrity of the voter register will be a major issue in Nigeria's 2027 elections.

As INEC introduces additional verification measures, transparency and public communication will be important in ensuring that eligible voters understand the process and that legitimate voters are not unfairly excluded.

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By ANV Media News Political Desk

15/09/2026

ARMY EXPANSION WILL BOOST SECURITY, ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND ECONOMIC GROWTH — COAS

Army chief highlights security's role in protecting Nigeria's creative economy and businesses

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has said the ongoing expansion of the Nigerian Army will strengthen the military's operational reach and help create a secure environment for entrepreneurship, the creative economy and other sectors of Nigeria's economy to thrive.

Shaibu made the statement on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, while delivering a lecture titled, “Safeguarding the Orange Economy and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development: The Role of the Nigerian Army,” to participants of Senior Executive Course 48, 2026, at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State.

Security as a foundation for economic development

The Army chief described the Orange Economy, which includes arts, culture, music, film and digital content, as an increasingly important contributor to employment, investment, cultural diplomacy and national development.

He noted that Nigeria's creative talents continue to project the country's image internationally while creating opportunities for wealth generation beyond traditional economic sectors.

According to him, creativity and enterprise require a peaceful and secure environment to flourish.

He explained that insecurity disrupts economic activities, restricts movement, discourages investment and undermines productivity, underscoring the direct relationship between national security and sustainable economic development.

Army expansion and operational reach

Speaking on the expansion of the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General Shaibu said the establishment of additional formations and units is intended to broaden the Army's operational footprint, strengthen its presence in vulnerable areas and improve its response to security threats.

He added that the expanded force structure would enhance the protection of communities, critical national infrastructure and economic activities, while limiting the freedom of action of terrorists and other criminal elements.

Protecting Nigeria's creative economy

The COAS maintained that the Nigerian Army's contribution to national development goes beyond confronting security threats.

He said sustained military operations help create the stability required for businesses, entrepreneurs, investors and creative professionals to operate and prosper.

He also called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, government institutions, the private sector and stakeholders in the creative industry, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.

Lieutenant General Shaibu reaffirmed the Nigerian Army's commitment to strengthening the security environment necessary for investment, entrepreneurship and sustainable national development.

ANV MEDIA NEWS ANALYSIS

Nigeria's creative economy is increasingly connected to national security. From film production and music to digital content and entertainment, businesses depend on safe communities, reliable infrastructure and freedom of movement.

The Army's planned expansion could support these activities by improving security coverage. However, the economic benefits will depend on effective deployment, sustained peace and cooperation between security agencies, government and private-sector stakeholders.

Source: Nigerian Army, Directorate of Army Public Relations.

By ANV Media News Political Desk

15/09/2026

POPE LEO XIV RESTORES VATICAN SALARIES CUT DURING COVID-19

Cardinals and senior Vatican officials return to pre-pandemic pay levels

Pope Leo XIV has restored the salaries of cardinals and senior Vatican officials to their pre-Covid-19 levels, reversing pay cuts introduced by his predecessor, Pope Francis, during the pandemic.

The decision was announced in a decree published on September 14, 2026, according to reports.

Why the salaries were cut

In 2021, Pope Francis introduced salary reductions as part of austerity measures aimed at easing financial pressure on the Holy See amid the Covid-19 crisis and chronic budget deficits.

The cuts included:

10% reduction in the salaries of cardinals.

8% reduction for senior Vatican officials.

-3% reduction for priests and religious personnel, according to reporting by America magazine.

The measures were intended to help protect jobs and support the Vatican's financial sustainability during a period of economic uncertainty.

Pope Leo reverses the cuts

The restoration, effective from September 1, 2026, repeals the salary reduction decree issued under Pope Francis.

The move comes as Pope Leo assesses the Vatican's financial position and considers the economic measures introduced during his predecessor's tenure.

The decision affects cardinals, senior officials and other religious personnel working within the Holy See and Vatican institutions.

What it means

The reversal marks a significant change in Vatican financial policy, ending austerity measures that were introduced during the pandemic.

However, the restoration of salaries also raises questions about the Vatican's continuing financial obligations and its efforts to maintain long-term economic sustainability.

ANV MEDIA NEWS

The decision illustrates how financial policies introduced during a crisis can be reviewed when economic conditions change. It also highlights the importance of balancing institutional leadership, staff welfare and responsible financial management.

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15/09/2026

BANDITRY: HURIWA COMMENDS UBA SANI AS KADUNA RECOVERS OVER 500,000 HECTARES OF FARMLAND

Land recovery described as a major security, humanitarian and economic milestone

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has commended Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, over the recovery of more than 500,000 hectares of farmland previously controlled by bandits.

The rights advocacy organisation described the development as a significant security, humanitarian and economic milestone, with the potential to restore the livelihoods of thousands of residents displaced by insecurity.

The reported recovery of the farmlands could mark an important step towards rebuilding communities affected by banditry, restoring agricultural activities and improving food production across the state.

For farming communities that have been forced to abandon their lands due to insecurity, regaining access to agricultural areas represents more than an economic opportunity. It could also support the return of displaced families, strengthen local livelihoods and contribute to long-term community recovery.

HURIWA's commendation highlights the importance of linking security operations with humanitarian recovery and economic empowerment.

However, the long-term success of the land recovery will depend on sustained security measures, protection for returning farmers and the restoration of basic infrastructure in affected communities.

The reported development places land recovery and agricultural security at the centre of Kaduna's wider response to banditry.

While reclaiming farmland is an important step, ensuring that farmers can return safely and cultivate their land without renewed attacks will be critical to translating the recovery into lasting economic benefits.

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14/09/2026

DRONES ARE TURNING EVERYDAY LIFE INTO A BATTLEFIELD FOR CIVILIANS

Drones are no longer confined to conventional battlefields.

Across some of the world's most dangerous conflict and contested regions, unmanned aircraft are increasingly being used in ways that expose civilians, humanitarian workers and vulnerable communities to new forms of danger.

In Sudan, drone attacks have become a major threat to civilians as the country's war continues, with humanitarian organisations warning that strikes are also making it harder for aid workers to reach people in need.

In Kherson, Ukraine, residents have described living under persistent fear of Russian drones, with reports documenting attacks on people in civilian areas. Human Rights Watch has also documented the increasing use of quadcopter drones by Russian forces against civilians and civilian objects in the region.

The wider concern is not simply the number of drones being deployed. It is the changing nature of warfare.

Small, relatively inexpensive unmanned aircraft can observe, track and strike targets from a distance, potentially giving armed groups and state forces the ability to threaten people far from conventional front lines.

For civilians, that can create a disturbing reality: the absence of soldiers on the street no longer necessarily means the absence of danger from above.

The growing use of drones therefore presents governments, humanitarian organisations and international institutions with a difficult challenge

how to protect civilians when the technology needed to attack them is becoming cheaper, more accessible and increasingly widespread.

The debate over drone warfare is no longer only about military technology.

It is increasingly about civilian protection, accountability and the rules governing the use of unmanned weapons in populated areas.

ANV Media News | International Security Desk

14/09/2026

MALI’S SECURITY CRISIS DEEPENS AS ARMY BASE FALLS TO MILITANTS

At Least 55 Malian Soldiers and Russian Africa Corps Personnel Reportedly Killed

Mali’s battle against armed groups has suffered another major setback following a large-scale attack on a military base in the country’s central region, with security and local sources reporting the deaths of at least 50 Malian soldiers and five Russian Africa Corps paramilitaries.

The attack, reported by AFP on Monday, has raised fresh questions about the ability of Mali’s military and its foreign security partners to protect strategic military positions in a country battling a prolonged insurgency.

MILITARY BASE OVERRUN

The assault on the Dioura military camp in the Mopti region reportedly took place last week.

While the minimum reported death toll stands at 55, other sources cited by AFP gave higher estimates, with some claiming that between 60 and 80 Malian soldiers were killed.

Several dozen soldiers were also reportedly abducted during the attack.

The conflicting figures have not been independently verified.

RUSSIA-BACKED SECURITY STRATEGY UNDER PRESSURE

The reported deaths of five Russian Africa Corps personnel add another dimension to Mali’s security crisis.

The Africa Corps is a Russian military-linked force operating in Africa, including Mali, where Russian personnel have supported the country’s military authorities.

The attack demonstrates that foreign military support does not automatically eliminate the threat posed by armed groups.

Despite military cooperation, terrorist organisations continue to challenge government forces in parts of Mali.

WHO CLAIMED RESPONSIBILITY?

An Al-Qaeda-linked armed group claimed responsibility for the assault and said it had taken control of the military barracks.

The claim could not be independently verified.

The incident comes amid continued violence involving terrorist organisations and Tuareg separatist groups in Mali.

MILITARY RESPONSE

Mali’s armed forces announced air and ground operations against the attackers following the assault.

The military also reported that several suspected terrorists travelling on motorcycles had been neutralised southwest of Dioura.

The announcement suggests that security forces launched a counter-operation after the reported attack.

THE BIGGER QUESTION

The latest incident raises a critical question for Mali and its foreign military partners:

Can the country’s security strategy protect military bases and prevent armed groups from repeatedly inflicting heavy casualties?

The reported attack, combined with allegations of mass abductions, points to continuing challenges in military protection, intelligence and counter-insurgency operations.

For the people of Mali, the issue goes beyond the reported death toll. It is about the ability of the state to secure communities, protect soldiers and restore confidence in national security institutions.

ANV FACT CHECK NOTE

The confirmed minimum reported toll is 55, comprising 50 Malian soldiers and five Russian Africa Corps personnel.

13/09/2026

SAUDI OIL EXPORTS FACE DISRUPTION AFTER MAJOR PIPELINE SHUTDOWN

Saudi Arabia could face a significant disruption to its oil exports if its major East-West oil pipeline is not restored soon, according to reports.

The pipeline was reportedly shut following drone attacks on September 11 and normally carries about 4 million barrels of crude oil per day to Yanbu on the Red Sea.

The route is strategically important because it allows Saudi Arabia to move crude to the Red Sea without relying entirely on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor.

Reports suggest that a prolonged shutdown could put pressure on Saudi Arabia’s export capacity and potentially affect up to 4% of global oil supply, raising concerns over international energy markets.

The development comes amid heightened security risks affecting energy infrastructure and shipping routes in the Middle East.

ANV Media News | World & Energy Desk

13/09/2026

ZULUM COMMISSIONS FOURTH FLYOVER, MAJOR ROAD PROJECTS IN MAIDUGURI

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has commissioned a new flyover, a 2.5-kilometre road, five kilometres of drainage infrastructure and two schools as part of efforts to expand infrastructure and improve transportation in Maiduguri.

The Post Office 9-Span Flyover is the fourth flyover completed by the Zulum administration since 2019.

The 2.5-kilometre road connects Budum Tandari Junction through Kasuwan Shanu to the NIETAL Shoe Factory Express Road, with five kilometres of drainage included in the project.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, who led the ribbon-cutting and commended Zulum for sustaining infrastructure development despite the security challenges confronting Borno.

Zulum said the projects were designed not only to improve the appearance of Maiduguri but also to reduce traffic congestion, improve movement and support economic activities.

The governor also highlighted his administration’s investment in education, saying more than 120 schools have been constructed across Borno State.

He said the Boko Haram insurgency destroyed more than 5,000 schools and left millions of children without access to education at the height of the crisis.

Beyond conventional education, Zulum said the state has established five Vocational Enterprise Institutes, revitalised 11 Vocational Training Centres and established three Second Chance Skills Entrepreneurship Schools to equip young people, women and girls with practical skills.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to rebuilding Borno and expanding opportunities for education, skills acquisition and economic development.

By ANV Media News Political Desk

13/09/2026

AFRICA’S POPULATION BOOM COULD RESHAPE THE GLOBAL ECONOMY BY 2050

As wealthy nations face demographic decline, Africa’s growing population presents a historic opportunity—and a major development challenge.

Africa’s population is on course to become one of the most important forces shaping the global economy over the next 25 years.

As many wealthy economies confront ageing populations and shrinking working-age populations, Africa is expected to experience continued population growth, creating new possibilities for economic expansion, investment and global influence.

But the demographic transformation also raises a critical question: Will Africa turn its growing population into prosperity, or will inadequate jobs and public services deepen economic hardship and instability?

THE GLOBAL DEMOGRAPHIC SHIFT

The world is entering a period of major demographic change.

Many advanced economies are experiencing declining fertility rates and rising life expectancy. These changes are contributing to ageing populations and a reduction in the number of people available to work.

Research published by the American Economic Association in 2026 highlights a growing contrast between shrinking labour forces in many rich economies and expanding labour forces in Africa.

The research projects that Africa will account for a substantial share of global growth in the working-age population by 2050, making the continent increasingly important to the future of international labour markets.

This shift could change the balance of economic opportunity between developed and developing regions.

AFRICA’S POPULATION COULD REACH 2.5 BILLION

The International Monetary Fund has highlighted Africa’s demographic transformation as a development opportunity with potential consequences for the global economy.

According to the IMF, Africa’s population is projected to reach close to 2.5 billion by 2050, compared with more than 1.4 billion in 2023.

The continent could account for more than 25 per cent of the world’s population by the middle of the century.

The IMF also notes that the working-age population in many African countries is expected to grow faster than any other age group.

This growing population could provide the human talent, labour and consumer demand needed to drive economic transformation.

However, population growth alone does not guarantee prosperity.

THE OPPORTUNITY: AFRICA’S DEMOGRAPHIC DIVIDEND

A demographic dividend occurs when a country benefits economically from having a large working-age population relative to dependants.

For Africa, this could mean:

A larger workforce to support economic production.

Increased consumer demand and expanding domestic markets.

Greater opportunities for industrialisation and manufacturing.

More innovation, entrepreneurship and technological development.

Stronger influence in global trade and investment.

The IMF has described Africa’s expanding pool of human talent and growing market size as a major opportunity for economic dynamism.

But this opportunity depends on whether governments can equip their populations with the education, skills and employment opportunities required to participate productively in the economy.

THE DANGER: POPULATION GROWTH WITHOUT JOBS

Africa’s demographic expansion could also create serious challenges if economic growth fails to keep pace with population growth.

The World Bank has warned that many low- and middle-income countries may struggle to generate enough jobs to absorb their growing working-age populations.

This raises concerns about:

Youth unemployment: Millions of young people entering the labour market could face limited employment opportunities.

Poverty and inequality: Without inclusive economic growth, population increases may not translate into improved living standards.

Pressure on public services: Schools, hospitals, housing, water supply and transportation systems will require major investment.

Migration pressures: Differences in employment opportunities between regions could increase economic migration.

Security and stability: Persistent unemployment, inequality and weak public services could contribute to social tensions in some countries.

These risks are not inevitable, but they demonstrate why demographic growth must be matched by effective development policies.

WHAT AFRICAN GOVERNMENTS MUST DO

Africa’s demographic future will depend heavily on decisions taken today.

Governments across the continent will need to prioritise:

Education and skills development — preparing young people for modern labour markets.

Job creation — supporting industries, businesses and entrepreneurs capable of employing a growing workforce

Healthcare investment improving maternal, child and public health outcomes.

Infrastructure development expanding electricity, roads, digital connectivity, water and housing.

Economic diversification reducing dependence on raw materials and creating higher-value industries.

Good governance — ensuring public resources are used effectively and development reaches ordinary citizens.

The IMF’s research on Africa’s demographic wave stresses that education and supporting services are essential to realising the potential benefits of population growth.

NIGERIA’S ROLE IN AFRICA’S FUTURE

Nigeria is positioned to play a major role in Africa’s demographic and economic transformation.

As one of the continent’s largest countries by population, Nigeria’s future workforce, consumer market and economic policies will have implications beyond its borders.

The country’s ability to expand education, create productive jobs, improve infrastructure and support businesses will be central to whether its growing population becomes an economic advantage.

For Nigeria and other African countries, the challenge is not simply how many people the continent will have—but how many of those people can live productive, secure and dignified lives.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Africa’s demographic transformation is not just an African issue. It is a global development story.

As wealthy economies age and face labour shortages, Africa’s growing workforce could become increasingly important to global production, services, trade and investment.

The continent’s expanding population could help reshape international economic relationships and strengthen Africa’s influence in global affairs.

But without the right policies, the same demographic trend could deepen existing challenges.

Africa’s population boom could become one of the greatest economic opportunities of the 21st century—or a missed opportunity on a historic scale.

The difference will depend on leadership, investment, education, employment and the ability to turn population growth into human development.

ANV Media News | Africa & Global Affairs

Real News. Wider Perspectives.

13/09/2026

ZULUM BACKS POWER SHIFT TO NORTH AFTER TINUBU’S SECOND TERM

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has thrown his weight behind the agitation for a return of presidential power to Northern Nigeria after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu completes his second term.

Zulum also urged Nigerians to remain patient with the Federal Government’s efforts to address insecurity, poverty and other challenges confronting the country.

The governor made the remarks on Sunday in Kaduna, shortly after an engagement meeting with Northern Nigeria women Ulama and Islamic scholars.

Zulum Calls for Patience Amid National Challenges

The Borno governor’s position comes as political discussions surrounding Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election and the future rotation of power continue to generate debate across the country.

While calling for patience, Zulum emphasised the need for sustained efforts to address the challenges affecting Nigerians, particularly insecurity and economic hardship.

The call for a power shift to the North is expected to add to ongoing conversations about political succession, regional representation and the future direction of Nigeria’s leadership.

ANV Media News | Political Desk

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