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Global & Nigerian News Roundup — Editorial Edition | August 30, 2025

Global Pulse: Shifting Powers, Legal Battles, and Diplomatic Tensions

Trump’s Tariff Turmoil A U.S. federal appeals court has ruled that former President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs, imposed under emergency powers, were unlawful. The decision affects punitive duties on countries like India and casts doubt on trade deals with Japan, the EU, and Canada. Trump, defiant as ever, warned that overturning the tariffs could “destroy the United States of America.” The ruling won’t take effect until October, giving the administration time to appeal to the Supreme Court.

Gaza Under Fire Israel has declared Gaza City a “combat zone,” launching a new offensive amid mounting international condemnation. The remains of two hostages were recovered, and humanitarian aid pauses have been suspended. The UN and European leaders are calling for accountability following deadly strikes on hospitals and journalists.

AI Simulates Mount Fuji Eruption Japan has released an AI-generated video simulating a violent eruption of Mount Fuji. The goal? To prepare Tokyo residents for a potential disaster. It’s a striking example of how tech is being used to visualize and mitigate natural risks.

 

Nigeria Focus: Diplomacy, Development, and Disruption

Colombia Courts Nigeria Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez is in Abuja for a 3-day official visit. The agenda includes trade, agriculture, education, and AI collaboration. With Nigeria’s exports to Colombia reaching $165 million in 2023, this visit signals deeper South-South cooperation and a push for strategic economic alignment.

Shea Nut Ban Sparks Debate President Tinubu has imposed a six-month ban on raw shea nut exports. The goal is to boost local processing and capture more of the $6.5 billion global market. While some praise the move for curbing illegal exports, others warn of financial fallout for exporters and question the short timeline for industrial ramp-up.

Nigeria’s SME Crisis A staggering $158 billion financing gap is choking Nigeria’s small and medium enterprises. Despite contributing over 50% to GDP, SMEs receive only 5% of commercial bank credit. Experts are calling for targeted investment-readiness programs and better policy frameworks to unlock growth.

Missing Persons Epidemic The ICRC reports over 23,000 missing persons in Nigeria, with 59% being minors. Most cases stem from conflict and abductions in Borno and the Northwest. Families endure trauma and financial strain, while ransom payments have surged to ₦2.56 billion in one year.

South Africa–Nigeria Trade Mission A high-level trade mission from South Africa has landed in Lagos, aiming to deepen ties through AfCFTA and AI-driven business verification. B2B matchmaking sessions are underway, with sectors like mining, agriculture, and engineering in focus. The initiative reflects a pan-African push for intra-continental trade and industrialization.

Editor’s Note: A World in Flux

From tariff wars to tech-driven diplomacy, the global stage is a whirlwind of recalibration. Nigeria, meanwhile, stands at a crossroads, balancing bold reforms with the realities of implementation. The shea nut ban and SME financing gap reveal a tension between ambition and infrastructure. Yet, the country’s rising global profile, from maritime leadership to educational triumphs, suggests a nation ready to claim its place.

Stay sharp, everyone. The world isn’t waiting.