Suspected cultists have reportedly killed four people, including a soldier, in North Bank, Makurdi, Benue State.

The attacks occurred on Thursday and Friday nights, with eyewitnesses linking the incidents to ongoing clashes between rival cult groups in the area.

Nura Umar, Chairman of the vigilante group Operation Shara, confirmed the killings and stated that the victims, including two young men, were not cultists but fell victim to the rampage.

He added that a suspected cultist was also killed in his home on Thursday.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed the cult activities but reported only one civilian casualty. Police spokesperson Catherine Anene assured that additional operatives had been deployed to the area to restore order.

Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State and a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address at the African Business Forum held at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, USA.

The event, which has been a platform for discussions on Africa’s progress for over 30 years, brought together over 500 students, many of them from Nigeria and other parts of Africa, to engage in deep conversations about the continent’s future.

Wharton, known as America’s oldest business school, has long been a hub for intellectual dialogue and innovation.

This year’s forum centred on the role young Africans can play in building a prosperous Africa and how the next generation can tackle the continent’s long-standing challenges.

Peter Obi, drawing from his wealth of experience in business and public service, shared insights on leadership, resilience, and community engagement.

During his address, Obi made mention of the immense potential of Africa, emphasizing that the continent is blessed with abundant natural and human resources.

However, he lamented that this potential has often been squandered due to poor leadership and systemic failures over the years.

Speaking directly to the young African students in attendance, Obi stressed that they hold the key to rewriting the continent’s narrative.

He reflects on his journey, from his early days in the trading world to his achievements in corporate life and public service.

He acknowledged the hurdles he faced but underlined the importance of persistence and determination in overcoming obstacles.

Obi states that his experiences taught him the value of resilience and the need to stay committed to one’s goals, regardless of challenges.

Obi also spoke about the importance of leveraging knowledge and education for societal transformation.

As someone who has studied at top global institutions, including Harvard and the London School of Economics, he emphasizes that true fulfilment comes not just from personal success but from using one’s skills and knowledge to improve the lives of others.

He urges the students to engage with their communities at the grassroots level, arguing that meaningful change must start from the bottom up.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has warmly welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Nigeria on his first official visit.

The visit is significant as it marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has stepped on Nigerian soil since 2007, signaling a renewed commitment to deepening diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

Tinubu shared the news through his official X handle, expressing excitement about the historic occasion.

He described the visit as an opportunity to expand the strategic partnership between Nigeria and India and strengthen collaboration in vital areas such as trade, technology, energy, and education.

“I look forward to welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his first visit to Nigeria, which is also the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to our dear country in 17 years.

Our discussions will aim to broaden our strategic partnership and foster cooperation in critical sectors.

Welcome to Nigeria, PM Modi,” Tinubu stated.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Abuja early on Sunday with his delegation, where he was met with enthusiasm from Nigerian officials and citizens alike.

Modi’s visit highlights India’s ongoing efforts to enhance relations with African countries, particularly Nigeria, which is one of India’s most important trade and investment partners on the continent.

The visit sets the stage for high-level discussions between the two leaders, focusing on strengthening economic ties.

India is one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners, with significant investments in the oil and gas sector.

However, this visit aims to expand their partnership into emerging areas like renewable energy, digital technology, and infrastructure development.

Both leaders are expected to deliberate on ways to enhance education and healthcare collaboration.

Nigeria, with its young and dynamic population, presents an ideal partner for India, a country known for its advancements in technology, medicine, and skill development.