‘Please do something’: Concerns raised about LaGuardia safety before fatal runway collision

Special Report: “Please Do Something” – Safety Concerns at LaGuardia Before Fatal Runway Collision

A tragic runway collision at New York’s LaGuardia Airport has reignited longstanding concerns about safety lapses, miscommunication, and air traffic control errors. Pilots had repeatedly warned of hazards before the fatal incident involving an Air Canada Express jet and a fire truck, which killed two crew members and injured passengers.

On March 23, 2026, an Air Canada Express CRJ-900 operated by Jazz Aviation as Flight 4686 collided with a fire truck while landing at LaGuardia Airport.

The aircraft, carrying 72 passengers and four crew members, had arrived from Montreal. Both pilots were killed instantly, while several passengers sustained injuries.

The collision occurred during a chaotic sequence in which air traffic controllers attempted to manage multiple runway operations simultaneously.

Trump says US and Iran in talks after he postpones strikes on power plants

Donald Trump, US President

President Donald Trump announced on March 23, 2026, that the United States had postponed planned military strikes on Iran’s power plants and energy infrastructure, citing what he described as “productive conversations” with Tehran. While Trump claimed talks were underway to resolve hostilities, Iranian officials denied any such negotiations. The move immediately impacted global markets, with oil prices dropping and investor confidence rising.

Trump Says US and Iran in Talks After Postponing Strikes on Power Plants

President Trump had threatened to “obliterate” Iran’s energy infrastructure if Tehran did not lift its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments.

The blockade had driven energy prices higher and intensified fears of a prolonged conflict. On March 23, Trump announced via Truth Social and in a CNBC interview that he was pausing strikes for five days, citing “very good and productive conversations” with Iranian authorities.

Trump emphasized that the United States was “very intent on making a deal” with Iran. He suggested that discussions could lead to a “complete and total resolution of hostilities in the Middle East.”

LaGuardia closed after deadly collision

Photo: CNN

LaGuardia Closed After Deadly Collision

LaGuardia Airport in New York was shut down after a tragic collision late Sunday night between an Air Canada Express regional jet and a Port Authority fire truck, killing the pilot and co-pilot and injuring more than 40 people. The closure has grounded hundreds of flights and triggered a federal investigation.  

On Sunday, March 22, 2026, at approximately 11:40 p.m., Air Canada Express Flight 8646, a CRJ-900 jet arriving from Montreal, struck a Port Authority fire truck while landing on Runway 4.

The fire truck had been responding to a separate emergency involving another aircraft that reported an onboard odor. Despite urgent warnings from air traffic control to stop, the truck crossed the runway and was hit by the jet.

The pilot and co-pilot were pronounced dead at the scene, while 41 passengers, crew members, and fire personnel sustained injuries and were taken to area hospitals. Emergency responders flooded the runway within minutes, but the front of the aircraft was demolished in the collision.

UNISA’s Airport Acquisition and the Global Context

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UNISA’s Airport Acquisition and the Global Context

The University of South Africa’s bold acquisition of an airport is not just a continental milestone; it is a global statement. 

Universities worldwide have long experimented with owning specialized infrastructure, but UNISA’s move places Africa firmly in the conversation about higher education innovation.  

In the United States, institutions such as Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Purdue University have long operated their own airports, integrating aviation training into their academic programs.

Africa’s largest university becomes first on the continent to own an Airport

Pretoria, South Africa - 2017: Main entrance of the University of South Africa (UNISA), the largest university on the African continent. [Stock Photo via Getty Images

The University of South Africa (UNISA), Africa’s largest university, has made history by becoming the first tertiary institution on the continent to own and operate an airport. This groundbreaking move, finalized in March 2026, positions UNISA as a leader in aviation-focused education and innovation.

Africa’s Largest University Acquires Its Own Airport

In a landmark development for African higher education, the University of South Africa (UNISA) has acquired a 20-hectare airport facility, making it the first university on the continent to own such infrastructure.

This acquisition represents a bold shift from traditional academic models toward practical, skills-based training in aviation, engineering, and advanced technologies.

Background

UNISA, headquartered in Pretoria, South Africa, is recognized as Africa’s largest university by enrollment, with millions of students across the continent. Historically known for its correspondence and distance-learning programs, UNISA has now taken a decisive step into hands-on technical education, aligning with global trends in higher learning.

Tinubu Hosts Shettima, 23 Govs, Vows To Intensify Efforts Against Insecurity

Tinubu Hosts Shettima, 23 Governors, Vows to Intensify Efforts Against Insecurity

On March 22, 2026, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu convened a significant gathering at his Lagos residence during the Eid el-Fitr celebrations.

Present at the meeting were Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 governors from across Nigeria, alongside other dignitaries.

The central theme of the discussions was Nigeria’s ongoing battle against insecurity and the urgent need to strengthen collective efforts to safeguard the nation.

President Tinubu emphasized that insecurity remains the foremost challenge confronting Nigeria, describing it as “an enemy of development, progress, and prosperity.” He assured the governors that his administration is intensifying collaborations with international partners to secure equipment and support.

FG to scrap common entrance, track students’ journey with identification number

Hon. Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced that the National Common Entrance Examination will be scrapped and replaced with a Learner Identification Number (LIN) system, alongside continuous assessment records, to track pupils’ academic journey from primary school through secondary education. This reform aims to improve access, reduce dropout rates, and ensure more accurate monitoring of student performance nationwide.

A Bold Shift in Nigeria’s Education Policy

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, revealed during an interactive session in Lagos that the Common Entrance Examination will be phased out. Instead, pupils will be evaluated through Continuous Assessment (CA), which will reflect their performance from Primary One onward.

This means that a child’s academic record will follow them even if they transfer schools, ensuring consistency and fairness in evaluation.

Umahi to Tricia: Prove Claims and Receivr ₦1BN

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David Umahi, Nigeria’s Minister of Works, has challenged businesswoman Tracy (Tricia) Ohiri to substantiate her claims that he owes her hundreds of millions of naira for campaign materials, promising her ₦1 billion if she can provide credible evidence. He has also directed his legal team to pursue court action against her over the allegations.  

Editorial: Umahi to Tricia -  Prove Claims and Receive ₦1BN

The unfolding drama between Minister of Works David Umahi and businesswoman Tracy Ohiri has become one of the most talked-about political controversies in Nigeria.

At its core lies a dispute over alleged unpaid debts for campaign materials and promotional services dating back to Umahi’s 2015 governorship campaign in Ebonyi State. Ohiri has repeatedly accused the minister of owing her between ₦250 million and ₦280 million, while also leveling allegations of sexual harassment.  

Umahi, however, has taken a defiant stance. In a statement issued by his media aide, Francis Nwaz, the minister categorically denied the accusations and threw down a bold challenge: if Ohiri can provide verifiable evidence of the debt, he will pay her not just the claimed amount but a staggering ₦1 billion reward.

OBI, MAKINDE, DICKSON visit KWAKANSO in Kano

Symbolic Photo of Obi, Makinde, Dickson, and Kwakwaso

In a politically charged Sallah visit, Peter Obi, Seyi Makinde, and Seriake Dickson met with Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso in Kano, sparking speculation of a strategic opposition alliance ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. The gathering, though festive, carried undertones of coalition-building and realignment.

Obi, Makinde, Dickson Visit Kwankwaso in Kano: A Sallah Greeting or Strategic Alliance?

In what appears to be more than a routine holiday courtesy, three prominent opposition figures, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate; Seyi Makinde, Governor of Oyo State; and Seriake Dickson, former Governor of Bayelsa State, paid a Sallah visit to Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement and former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), at his residence in Kano on Sunday, March 22, 2026.

Equipping Africans with Tech Skills

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Across Africa, tech skills training is rapidly transforming the continent’s youth into globally competitive digital professionals. From Nigeria’s 3MTT initiative to pan-African bootcamps like TechPass Africa, programs are equipping millions with coding, AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics skills, key to unlocking a projected $180 billion digital economy by 2025. 

Equipping Africans with Tech Skills

Africa stands at the cusp of a digital revolution, and its youth are leading the charge.

With over 27 million young people unemployed and 62 million classified as NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), the urgency to bridge the digital divide has never been greater.

Governments, private organizations, and global tech giants are responding with bold initiatives aimed at equipping Africans with the skills needed to thrive in the 21st-century economy.

2027 ELECTION COUNTDOWN: Tinubu's "Quit Notice" To Appointees Seeking Elective Office

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a decisive directive: all political appointees in his administration who intend to contest elective offices in the 2027 general elections must resign by March 31, 2026. This “quit notice” is both a legal requirement under the Electoral Act and a political maneuver to ensure clarity and fairness ahead of the primaries. 

2027 Election Countdown: Tinubu’s “Quit Notice” to Appointees Seeking Elective Office

As Nigeria marches toward the 2027 general elections, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has drawn a clear line in the sand.

His directive, announced through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, requires ministers, advisers, assistants, directors-general, and heads of federal agencies to vacate their posts if they plan to run for office.

The deadline, March 31, 2026, is not arbitrary; it aligns with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable for party primaries and the stipulations of the Electoral Act.

Twin priests from Co Kildare to celebrate 95th birthday

Twin brothers Fr Joe and Fr Matt Kelly from County Kildare have reached a remarkable milestone, celebrating their 95th birthdays in March 2026, alongside the platinum jubilee of their priestly ordination. Their lives reflect over seven decades of dedicated service to the Catholic Church in Ireland.

Twin Priests from Co Kildare Celebrate 95th Birthday

Fr Joe and Fr Matt Kelly were born on 31 March 1931 in Coolcarrigan, County Kildare. Their upbringing was deeply rooted in community and faith: their mother worked as a teacher at the local primary school in Timahoe, while their father ran a grocery shop in the area.

The twins attended St Mary’s, Knockbeg College in County Carlow for their secondary education, a formative period that nurtured their vocation.

The Kelly brothers were ordained in the 1950s, marking the beginning of their lifelong commitment to the priesthood. This year, they celebrate their platinum jubilee (70 years) of ordination.

Smartphones, Discipline, and the Future of Nigerian Campuses

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Smartphones, Discipline, and the Future of Nigerian Campuses

The decision by Margaret Lawrence University to ban smartphones on campus has reignited a national debate about the role of technology in education.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ernest Izevbigie’s rationale was clear: smartphones, while powerful tools, have become distractions that erode students’ focus and academic discipline.

By restricting students to basic phones, the university hopes to foster an environment where learning is prioritized over endless scrolling.

Why we banned use of smartphone on campus – VC

Margaret Lawrence University has banned the use of smartphones on campus to improve students’ academic focus, allowing only basic phones for calls and text messages. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ernest Izevbigie, announced this policy during the institution’s third matriculation ceremony in Abuja, where 272 students were admitted.

Why Smartphones Were Banned on Campus - Statement by the Vice-Chancellor

Background

At the third matriculation ceremony of Margaret Lawrence University, held in Abuja on March 16, 2026, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ernest Izevbigie addressed the newly admitted students and outlined a significant policy shift. The university, which matriculated 272 students, announced a ban on smartphones within the campus environment. This decision has sparked discussions across Nigeria’s academic community, given the increasing reliance on digital technology in education.

Rationale for the Ban

Prof. Izevbigie explained that the primary motivation behind the ban was to enhance students’ academic concentration and discipline. According to him, smartphones, while useful, often serve as a major source of distraction. Social media, gaming, and constant notifications can divert students’ attention from their studies, leading to reduced productivity and weaker academic performance.

Anambra Is Safest State, We’ve Cleared Over 60 Criminal Camps - Gov Soludo

Governor Soludo of Anambra State

Anambra Declared Safest State by Governor Soludo

Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has declared the state the safest in Nigeria, citing significant strides in dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace across troubled regions.

Speaking during a live media chat in Awka, the state capital, Soludo emphasized that Anambra has not recorded any major security incident in the past four months, a feat he attributes to coordinated reforms and decisive action against criminal elements.

2027 Elections: Alia Gives Benue Political Appointees March 30 Deadline to Resign

Governor Alia of Benue State

2027 Elections - Governor Alia’s Directive to Benue Political Appointees

Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State has issued a decisive directive requiring all political appointees in his administration who intend to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign from office on or before March 30, 2026.

The announcement was made through a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, underscoring the governor’s determination to maintain stability and continuity in governance.

The directive is framed as a safeguard against political distractions that could derail ongoing development projects across the state. Governor Alia emphasized that early resignation would create room for a smooth transition, ensuring that governance remains focused on delivering results rather than being consumed by political ambitions.

March 21: A Day of Faith, Struggle, and Remembrance

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March 21: A Day of Faith, Struggle, and Remembrance

Across centuries, March 21 has carried a weight of historical significance, weaving together moments of triumph, tragedy, and transformation. It is a date that speaks to humanity’s enduring quest for justice, resilience, and meaning.

In 630 CE, Byzantine Emperor Heraclius restored the True Cross to Jerusalem, a powerful symbol of Christian faith reclaimed after years of conflict. Centuries later, in 717 CE, Charles Martel’s victory at the Battle of Vincy strengthened his hold on power, laying the foundation for the Carolingian dynasty that would reshape Europe. Yet, not all events of this day inspire pride.

Tinubu’s Historic UK State Visit: A Brief Editorial

Symbolic Photo, Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, King Charles III, and Queen Camilla

Tinubu’s Historic UK State Visit: A Brief Editorial

President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom marked a turning point in Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic relations with one of its oldest partners.

For two days, London and Windsor Castle became the stage for a rare ceremonial welcome, the first of its kind for a Nigerian leader in nearly four decades. The symbolism was powerful: Nigeria stepping forward to reaffirm its place on the global stage, while the UK extended a hand of renewed partnership.

The visit was not merely ceremonial. At its heart lay a significant economic achievement, the signing of a £746 million financing agreement with Citibank and UK Export Finance.

EID AL-FITR: FCT MINISTER URGES RESIDENTS TO EMBODY THE VIRTUES OF UNITY AND COMPASSION

Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, Hon. Minister, Federal Capital Territory

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

EID AL-FITR: FCT MINISTER URGES RESIDENTS TO EMBODY THE VIRTUES OF UNITY AND COMPASSION

...REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SECURITY AND DEVELOPMENT

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has extended his warm felicitations to the residents of the FCT, particularly the Muslim Ummah, on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

In an official message marking the end of the holy month, the Minister described Ramadan as a vital period of spiritual rejuvenation, self-reflection, and renewal. He called on all residents to integrate the core values of the season - compassion, forgiveness, and unity - into their daily lives to strengthen the social fabric of the nation’s capital, urging them to pray for the nation and its leaders for peace and progress.

Goodwill Message on Eid-El-Fitr Celebration

Special Report: Goodwill Message on Eid-El-Fitr Celebration

Issued by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN)  

Date: 19 March 2026.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria has extended warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to the Muslim faithful across the nation on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr. 

In a message signed by Archbishop Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, President of the CBCN, the bishops commended the discipline of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving observed during the sacred month of Ramadan, describing it as a “compelling witness to faith, self-restraint, and devotion to God.”  

This year’s celebration carries a unique significance, as Christians and Muslims in Nigeria began their respective fasting seasons on the same day. The bishops noted that this providential convergence underscores the shared commitment of both faiths to sacrifice, prayer, and reliance on God.

Faith Leaders and the Quest for Nigerian Unity

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Editorial: Faith Leaders and the Quest for Nigerian Unity

Religious festivals in Nigeria often transcend their spiritual boundaries, becoming moments of national reflection.

Eid al-Fitr, celebrated by Muslims worldwide, has increasingly become a platform for interfaith dialogue in Nigeria.

This year, Catholic bishops seized the occasion to call for a joint effort in building a just and peaceful nation. Their message was not simply a gesture of goodwill but a deliberate attempt to underscore the shared responsibility of Christians and Muslims in confronting Nigeria’s challenges.

ID-EL-FITR: NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Grace Ike, felicitates with Muslim faithful, calls for unity, compassion

Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council

Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, urging unity, compassion, and ethical conduct in both personal and professional life. Her message emphasized the values of sacrifice, patience, and generosity learned during Ramadan as guiding principles for society. 

Special Report: ID-EL-FITR: NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Grace Ike, Felicitates with Muslim Faithful, Calls for Unity, Compassion

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, under the leadership of Comrade Grace Ike, joined millions of Muslims across Nigeria in celebrating Eid-el-Fitr.

This festival, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is a time of thanksgiving, reflection, and renewal of faith. In her goodwill message, Ike highlighted the importance of unity, compassion, and integrity as values that should transcend the season and shape the conduct of individuals and communities.

Grace Ike congratulated Muslim faithful for their discipline and devotion throughout Ramadan. She acknowledged the sacrifices made during fasting and prayers, noting that the lessons of patience, generosity, and spiritual commitment should not end with the festival but continue to guide everyday life.

NIPR Inducts NUJ FCT Chair Grace Ike, As She Pledges Ethical Leadership in Public Communication

Grace Ike, Chair of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council, has been formally inducted into the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), pledging to uphold ethical leadership and professionalism in public communication. Her induction marks a significant career milestone, bridging her journalism roots with a new chapter in strategic public relations.

NIPR Inducts NUJ FCT Chair Grace Ike, As She Pledges Ethical Leadership in Public Communication

On March 20, 2026, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) inducted Grace Ike, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, into its fold.

The ceremony, held in Abuja, was part of the institute’s first quarter induction of new members, where Ike joined 421 professionals admitted into the body. 

lNigeria, UK sign deal on deportation of criminals, failed asylum seekers

Nigeria and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark migration agreement that enables Britain to deport failed asylum seekers, foreign criminals, and visa overstayers directly to Nigeria. The deal was finalized during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to London on March 19, 2026, and is intended to streamline deportation processes by removing bureaucratic hurdles.

Nigeria–UK Deportation Agreement

Background of the Agreement

During President Bola Tinubu’s two-day state visit to the United Kingdom, the governments of both countries formalized a new migration deal. The agreement was signed by UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Nigeria’s Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. The UK government emphasized that the deal is part of its broader immigration control measures, while Nigeria agreed to cooperate in receiving deported nationals.

Key Provisions

- Scope of Deportations: The deal covers failed asylum seekers, foreign criminals, and visa overstayers who have no legal right to remain in the UK.  

Tinubu, Starmer seal £70m Steel deal for Lagos Ports upgrade

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have sealed a landmark £70 million steel supply deal to upgrade Lagos’ two major ports, forming part of a broader £746 million redevelopment programme. The agreement, finalized during Tinubu’s historic state visit to London, will see British Steel deliver 120,000 tonnes of steel for the Lagos Port Complex and Tin Can Island Port.

Special Report: Tinubu, Starmer Seal £70m Steel Deal for Lagos Ports Upgrade

On March 19, 2026, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street in London.

This marked the first official state visit by a West African leader to the UK in 37 years, underscoring the diplomatic significance of the occasion.

The visit was framed around strengthening bilateral trade, infrastructure investment, and security cooperation.