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White Smoke from Sistine Chapel Signals Cardinal Prevost is Chosen as New Pope

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On May 8, 2025, white smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signaling that the College of Cardinals has chosen a new pope. The event marks the end of a brief conclave, with cardinals reaching the necessary two-thirds majority after just four ballots. The announcement was greeted with excitement as thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, eagerly waiting for the new pope’s first appearance.

The newly elected pope is Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who has chosen the name Pope Leo XIV. Cardinal Prevost, originally from Chicago, has deep ties to both the U.S. and Europe, with Italian, French, and Spanish ancestry. He joined the Order of St. Augustine in 1977 and has spent a significant part of his career in Peru, where he became well-respected for his balanced leadership and international perspective. His election is historic, as he is the first American to be elected pope.

The first public announcement came when Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, the senior cardinal deacon, appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and declared, “Habemus Papam!” (“We have a pope!”). Pope Leo XIV then emerged, offering his first blessing and addressing the faithful gathered in the square.

The conclave that led to this election was completed in a remarkable amount of time, with the cardinals quickly reaching a decision.

The new pope’s first address touched on themes of unity, compassion, and dialogue. Additionally , he paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, and urged the Church to focus on helping those in need. Also, he took a moment to speak in Spanish, acknowledging the people of Peru, a country with which he has strong ties.

Moreover, this election follows the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. The conclave began on May 7 and ended on May 8, with the fourth ballot deciding the new pope. The tradition of signaling a new pope with white smoke dates back many centuries. The smoke is created by burning the ballots, mixed with chemicals to produce the white color, and is released through the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel. It’s a moment that has become a defining part of the papal election process.

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Tinubu Says His Tough Economic Reforms Are Now Helping Nigeria’s Economy Grow

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President Bola Tinubu has claimed that his government’s economic reforms are beginning to bear fruit. Speaking at the APC National Summit held at the State House banquet hall in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu defended his administration’s decisions and insisted that the ruling party has not failed Nigerians. “Two years ago, we set out on a journey powered by hope and a strong belief in this country. We made a promise to tackle Nigeria’s problems directly and rebuild the trust of our people,” he said.

The president expressed confidence that the economic policies introduced since May 2023 are taking effect. He noted that the removal of fuel subsidies was a tough but necessary decision meant to steer the country toward a better future. “We took the bold step to end the subsidy, and we did it for the good of the country. Good things don’t come easy,” Tinubu added.

Since taking office, his administration has introduced a wave of economic reforms, including floating the naira and slashing fuel subsidies—moves which both the government and international bodies say were essential to fix Nigeria’s struggling economy.

However, these changes have been deeply felt by everyday Nigerians, many of whom are battling an intense cost-of-living crisis. With inflation soaring and economic growth sluggish, the World Bank estimates that nearly half of Nigeria’s population lived in poverty in 2024. Similarly, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently pointed out that while the reforms may be important in the long run, they are yet to make a real difference in the lives of ordinary citizens.


 

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APC Governors Say They Support Tinubu for Second Term and Will Make Sure He Wins in 2027

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The Progressive Governors’ Forum has pledged full support to ensure President Bola Tinubu secures a second term in office. Speaking at the APC National Summit in Abuja, the forum’s chairman and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, urged his fellow governors to take firm control of politics in their states and work to secure victories for the party across all levels.

Uzodimma emphasized that a united and active effort by APC governors will pave the way for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. He also acknowledged the public backing Tinubu has received from APC governors in the North, calling it a strong step toward solidifying the president’s position as the party’s next flag bearer.

According to him, APC governors must promote federal government policies and dominate their political spaces to ensure success in the next general elections. Uzodimma closed his remarks by formally calling on the summit to adopt the position of the Progressive Governors’ Forum in endorsing Tinubu for a second term and committing to deliver that mandate.


 

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Dangote Drops Petrol Price Again as New Rates Start Across Nigeria

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Dangote Petroleum Refinery has once again slashed the pump price of petrol across Nigeria, offering some relief to consumers. The new price now falls between N875 and N905 per litre, reflecting a N15 drop. This update was shared on the refinery’s official social media page on Thursday.

According to Dangote, the price cut affects major fuel distributors working with the refinery, including MRS, Ardova, Heyden, Optima Energy, Techno Oil, and Hyde Energy. With this change, Lagos residents will now buy petrol at N875 per litre. Those in the South-South and South-East regions will pay N905, while the South-West sees a new rate of N885.

In the North-West and central parts of the country, it’s N895, and the North-East will also pay N905. Dangote added that their petrol and diesel are not only high-quality but also designed to support engine efficiency and reduce environmental impact.


 

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