U.S. President Donald Trump has introduced the FIFA PASS, a new expedited visa system for international fans attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Announced at the White House alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the program will streamline visa scheduling for ticket-holding visitors ahead of next summer’s global tournament.

The World Bank Group and top African think tanks launch the Network for Impact in Africa (NIA) to deepen local expertise, co-create policy solutions, and accelerate development outcomes across the continent.

FAA to reduce thousands of flights from Friday amid the U.S. government shutdown, affecting 40 major airports as political gridlock persists in Congress.

Security expert Dr. Kabir Adamu says Nigeria’s counterterrorism agenda is undermined by poor coordination despite strong diplomatic ties with the U.S.

IMF commends Senegal’s fiscal discipline and hidden debt reforms as growth hits 7.9% in 2025, but warns of debt risks and ambitious tax targets.

RSF agrees to a humanitarian truce as Sudan’s war enters its third year. Analysts urge caution amid ongoing atrocities and fragile peace efforts.

President Donald Trump designates Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern,” citing severe violations of religious freedom against Christians.

Cameroon’s Constitutional Council has declared President Paul Biya the winner of the October 12, 2025 election, securing a controversial eighth term with 53.66% of votes. Opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary has rejected the results, sparking nationwide protests and clashes that left several dead. Analysts warn Biya’s 43-year rule faces growing legitimacy and youth discontent challenges.

Ivory Coast votes in a high-stakes election as President Alassane Ouattara aims for a fourth term. With key opponents excluded and over eight million voters enrolled, the outcome could reshape regional politics and investor confidence.

Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother of Thailand has died at age 93 after years of ill health. The revered royal figure was widely known for her rural development work, cultural patronage and global elegance. Thailand has entered a year-long period of mourning.

The Polisario Front says Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara must be validated through a UN-supervised referendum offering independence, integration, or free association as options.

German police accidentally shot a soldier during a joint training exercise near Bremerhaven. The soldier is in stable condition as investigators probe live-fire procedures and coordination failures.

Tropical Storm Melissa is set to intensify into a hurricane while hovering over the western Caribbean, presenting severe flood and landslide risks for Jamaica and neighbouring islands.

At least 31 people have died after a fuel tanker exploded in Niger State, Nigeria, when residents tried to scoop fuel from a crashed truck. Police and officials blame poor road safety and dangerous scavenging practices for the tragedy.

A Badr Airlines flight from Port Sudan has become the first civilian plane to land in Khartoum since war erupted in April 2023. The airport’s reopening marks a symbolic but fragile step toward Sudan’s recovery amid renewed fighting.