Crude oil prices have dropped below $57, following a previous rate of $59.78.

This decline coincides with the imposition of tariffs on several countries by US President Donald Trump.

A report from West Texas Intermediate attributes this price slump to consistent 6% reductions observed last week.

JPMorgan Chase & Co has warned that these tariffs could likely push both the US and global economies into a recession this year.

The financial institution explained that the tariffs, set to take effect this week, are expected to have widespread economic repercussions.

Market analysts and the business community have expressed concerns about the negative implications of these measures, predicting a slowdown in economic activities and a subsequent decline in oil demand.

The military government of Niger has continued its efforts to cut ties with France.

In its latest move, it has officially designated Hausa as the country’s new national language.

Previously, French had served as the central and official language of the nation.

This new development was announced in a charter released on March 31 and published in a special edition of the government’s official journal.

According to the document, the national language is Hausa,” while “the working languages are English and French.”

Before this announcement, Hausa was already widely spoken in Niger, particularly in regions such as Zinder, Maradi, and Tahoua.

Out of the country’s estimated population of 26 million, the vast majority speak and understand Hausa.

In contrast, only around three million people— roughly 13 percent — can speak French.

The new charter also recognises nine other local languages, including Zarma-Songhay, Fula, Kanuri, Gourmanche, and Arabic, as “spoken languages of Niger.”

Additionally, the government has withdrawn from the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, a group similar to the Commonwealth that supports French-speaking nations.

In January, French President Emmanuel Macron criticised African leaders for what he described as a lack of gratitude.

Speaking about developments in the region, Macron said: “We had a relationship based on security — it was twofold. On one hand, it was our commitment to fighting terrorism since 2013. We were right, though I think someone forgot to say thank you. It’s okay, it will come with time.

“Ungratefulness, I know too well, is a disease that cannot be transmitted to men. But I say this for all African heads of state who have lacked courage in the face of public opinion.”

“None of them would be sovereign countries today if the French army hadn’t been deployed in the region. My heart goes out to all our soldiers, some of whom have given their lives and fought for years.”

“We did the right thing. We left because there were coups. We were there at the request of sovereign states who asked France to come.”

“From the moment there were coups and the people stated their objectives no longer involved fighting terrorism — or were unclear— France no longer had a place there.”

It’s worth recalling that in December 2023, Niger Republic officially expelled French troops from the country.

A football celebration turned awry on Tuesday evening in Calabar as Police Inspector Stephen Enang reportedly slumped and died shortly after watching Arsenal defeat Real Madrid 3-0 at a local viewing centre.

The late officer, a native of Ekori in Yakurr LGA of Cross River State and attached to the Akim Police Division, was described as a devoted Arsenal fan.

Eyewitnesses said he was visibly ecstatic during the match, jumping in celebration after each goal. However, after the final whistle, friends noticed he remained seated and unresponsive.

Enang was rushed to the Police Hospital in Akim, but efforts to revive him failed, and he was pronounced dead.

Known for his calm demeanor and love for football, his sudden passing shocked those who knew him. As of press time, the state police command had yet to release an official statement.