By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The African Union (AU) has issued a strong condemnation of joint military strikes conducted by the United States and Israel against targets in Iran, warning that the action constitutes a perilous escalation of conflict in the Middle East.

In a statement released on Saturday, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Youssouf expressed deep concern over what he described as a “serious intensification of hostilities.” He urgently called for restraint and a return to dialogue, emphasizing that “all parties must act fully in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard international peace and security.”

Youssouf warned that further military action could have cascading global effects, “with serious implications for energy markets, food security, and economic resilience—particularly in Africa, where conflict and economic pressures remain acute.” He urged all parties to prioritize diplomatic engagement, including ongoing mediation efforts facilitated by Oman, stressing that “sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, not through force.”

The strikes also drew a concerned response from European Council President António Costa, who stated that the “developments in Iran are greatly concerning.” He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to regional stability, highlighting the critical importance of nuclear safety and preventing actions that could “undermine the global non-proliferation regime.”

Costa noted the EU’s extensive sanctions regime against Iran and called on “all parties to exercise maximum restraint, to protect civilians, and to fully respect international law.” He added that the bloc is coordinating closely with member states to ensure the safety of EU citizens in the region.

The diplomatic reactions follow a wave of US and Israeli strikes on Saturday against sites in Iran, which included targets in the capital, Tehran. Witnesses reported explosions and plumes of smoke rising from the city.

US President Donald Trump characterized the operation as a measure to eliminate “imminent threats” from Iran. In a video message, he asserted, “The United States’ military began major combat operations in Iran,” vowing to destroy the country’s missile capabilities and navy. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the action as a “preventive strike.”

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

Saudi Arabia issued a fiery condemnation of Iran on Saturday, accusing Tehran of committing “blatant aggression” and violating the sovereignty of multiple Arab nations.

In a strongly worded statement, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “unwavering support” for the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan. Riyadh described the alleged actions as flagrant breaches of international law that threaten the peace and stability of the region.

The Kingdom declared its readiness to place “all its capabilities” at the disposal of the affected countries to support any defensive measures. It warned of “grave consequences” if the violations persist and called on the international community to take firm action against what it termed Iran’s destabilizing conduct.

While the statement did not specify the incidents that prompted the rebuke, the direct naming of five nations signals a concerted effort by Riyadh to project regional unity and strengthen collective deterrence against perceived Iranian assertiveness.

The Colleges of Education Old Students Association of Nigeria (COEOSAN) has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to consider appointing an individual with verifiable College of Education background and experience as the next Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE).

This appeal was made by the President General of the Association, Dr. Shehu Salisu Rogo (Dallatun Rogo), during a press conference held in Kano.

Dr. Rogo emphasized that Colleges of Education remain the backbone of teacher preparation in Nigeria and therefore deserve leadership at the regulatory level that clearly understands their structure, challenges, and operational realities. According to him, appointing someone with direct experience in the College of Education system will strengthen policy implementation, improve institutional standards, and reposition the sector for greater efficiency and global competitiveness.
He noted that individuals who have passed through or worked extensively within the Colleges of Education system possess first-hand knowledge of curriculum development, teacher training dynamics, accreditation processes, and institutional administration. Such experience, he stated, is critical for effective leadership of the NCCE.
He urged the Federal Government to prioritize competence, experience, and deep sectoral understanding in making the appointment.

He thanked the Honourable Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa for the ongoing reforms and initiatives introduced by the Minister, this reflects a clear vision to address longstanding challenges while laying a solid foundation for future growth and global competitiveness.

COEOSAN therefore applauds the Honourable Minister for his dedication, foresight, and proactive leadership. The Association reaffirms its support for policies and programmes that will further strengthen Colleges of Education and enhance the training of professional teachers in Nigeria.

The Association further stressed that this recommendation is in the best interest of Nigeria’s education sector and aligns with ongoing efforts to reform and strengthen teacher education across the country.

Dr. Rogo reaffirmed COEOSAN’s commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that promote quality teacher education and national development.