Ima Elijah

<h3>The removal of President Muhammad Bazoom through the recent coup has unleashed a wave of instability that not only disrupts Niger Republic's internal dynamics but also sends shockwaves through the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), leading to divisions within the bloc.</h3>

Amidst these developments, Nigeria, taking a prominent role in the efforts to reinstate democratic governance in Niger, must confront the realisation that the crisis in Niger is far from insulated, with potent external forces at play.

As tensions mount and diplomatic endeavours escalate, an influential actor has taken centre stage, positioned on the periphery but potentially wielding considerable influence over the unfolding narrative: Russia.

The growing sentiments in Niger have been anti-West, with the locals supporting the disruption of democracy and demanding a review of the country's relationship with the West.

Amidst these developments, Niger's biggest card remains its uranium reserves, a vital resource for their energy and nuclear industries. As the world's seventh-largest producer of uranium, Niger's significance in this regard cannot be understated. It is an essential supplier of uranium to Western countries, particularly France and Canada. Herein lies the pivot point that could lead to far-reaching consequences.

The threads of Russia's influence seem to weave through this narrative. Visuals of rallies in Niger show an unexpected phenomenon: the rise of Russian flags alongside the colours of Niger. This is not merely a coincidence but a potent symbol of Russia's apparent involvement in the unfolding crisis.

Russian flags spotted in Niger [Al Jazeera]

Niger's pivotal position as a significant uranium supplier to Western countries gives Russia access to weaken the energy and nuclear industries. With tensions already escalating between Russia and Western powers, any hint of Moscow gaining control or influencing this vital resource could have far-reaching repercussions.

It is worth noting that <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/business/international/russias-shocking-promise-to-transform-africa-sparks-hope-across-the-continent/vqdlpyn">Russia's ambitions in Africa</a> have been quietly gaining momentum. The Kremlin's strategic game in the region is evident as it seeks to expand its influence and capitalise on geopolitical shifts. Russia has already signed <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/world/russia-signs-military-deals-with-40-african-countries-putin-says/8mrmztb">military deals with 40 African countries</a>, doing more than Africa's Western partners have done in decades.

Countering an <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/can-nigers-military-resist-ecowas-military-intervention/trymlg4">earlier analysis on Niger's military strength</a>, the country stands a good chance of withstanding ECOWAS's military intervention with the help of Russia. Already, the <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/blinken-warns-against-russias-wagner-group-exploiting-instability-in-niger/pr6eqck">US has alarmed possible presence of Russian mercinaries in Niger</a>, based on security intel. What US' intel did not tell us is whether these mercenaries are a danger to Niger, or a blessing.

Russia's reputation as a disruptor on the global stage cannot be dismissed. In this age of interconnectedness, where events in one corner of the globe can send shockwaves across continents, Niger's crisis becomes more than just a domestic issue. It is a manifestation of larger forces at play, where nations vie for control and influence.

Whether the true extent of Russia's involvement is revealed or remains shrouded in secrecy, the events unfolding in Niger have undoubtedly underscored Moscow's growing presence at Nigeria's doorstep.

Will Nigerian leaders be forward thinking enough to decide its stance between the West and Russia long before the physical push for that conversation? Recall Ukraine.

*Pulse Editor's Opinion is the viewpoint of an editor at Pulse. It does not represent the opinion of the organisation Pulse.

Will leadership on Nigeria decide its stance between the West and Russia?

This article explores Russia's quest of African partnerships admist Western ties. Written by Ima Elijah

The crisis in Niger is far from insulated, with potent external forces at play.

Is Russia finally at Nigeria's doorstep? [Editor's Opinion]

<h3>In a significant blow to global food stability, Russia has terminated its participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative, an agreement that allowed Ukraine to export its grain by sea. </h3>

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation and former Nigerian Finance Minister, expressed her deep disappointment at the termination of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. In a tweet, she highlighted the importance of this trade route for global food prices and its impact on vulnerable populations, including the poor people and poor countries who are likely to be hardest hit by the disruption.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Deeply disappointed at the termination of the Black Sea Grain Initiative &amp; the interruption of the grain trade from Ukraine. I share UN SG <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@antonioguterres</a>’ regret &amp; concern. Black Sea trade in food, feed &amp; fertilizer is critical to the stability of global food prices. Sad to say…&mdash; Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (@NOIweala) <a href="https://twitter.com/NOIweala/status/1680975199691329537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h3>About the Black Sea Grain Initiative</h3>

The Black Sea Grain Initiative was an agreement that allowed Ukraine to export its grain by sea through the Black Sea region. It was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey and aimed to facilitate the trade of grain, food, feed, and fertiliser from Ukraine to international markets.

Ukraine is one of the world's major producers and exporters of grain, particularly wheat and maize, and its grain exports are essential for meeting the food demands of many countries around the world.

By providing a reliable trade route for Ukrainian grain exports through the Black Sea region, the initiative ensured a steady and predictable supply of grain to international markets. This stability in grain supply helped to mitigate the impact of fluctuations in agricultural production and weather-related events in other parts of the world. When there is a steady flow of grain from a major exporter like Ukraine, it can serve as a buffer against food crises and price spikes in times of global shortages.

Food production in Nigeria has been experiencing shocking decline in the last 3 years. Dataphyte's report revealed that between Q1 2020 and Q1 2022, crop production has declined by 47.2%. This can be credited to the fact that the gran producing regions have struggled with insecurity and flooding disasters.

In the bid to be proactive and mitigate the impact of these issues, early this year, Nigeria signed the “Grains from Ukraine” project, would see Nigeria receiving grain imports from the war torn eastern European country Ukraine;

According to Nairametrics, this information was disclosed by “the Ukrainian Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food, Mykola Solskyi, who led a delegation to Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, and his Agriculture and Rural Development counterpart, Mohammad Abubakar, in Abuja.”

In light of the deal the former minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mohammed Abubakar, noted that the establishment of grain hubs in the country are already in effect.

“...I can say that over 30% of our agricultural businesses are with Ukraine, especially in the area of wheat, fertiliser and other grains. And this I can assure you will continue to improve our relationship,”&nbsp;the minister said.

Nigeria, like many other countries in Africa and the Middle East, relies on imports of food commodities to meet its domestic demand. The Black Sea region has played a crucial role in facilitating the flow of grain and other food items to these regions, particularly via Ukraine's exports. With the termination of the agreement, there is a growing concern that food prices could become more volatile and increase in Nigeria, potentially leading to food crisis.

Read More: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/business/how-the-nigerian-food-economy-will-be-affected-by-the-russia-ukraine-pulse-explainer/4z13n8w">How the Nigerian food economy will be affected by the Russia-Ukraine war [Pulse Explainer] </a>

Ukraine is one of the world's major producers and exporters of grain, particularly wheat and maize, and its grain exports are essential for meeting the food demands of many countries around the world [Unsplash]

In a significant blow to global food stability, Russia has terminated its participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative, an agreement that allowed Ukraine to export its grain by sea

Grain price to hike in Nigeria as Russia halts trade deal with Ukraine

Precious 'Mamazeus' Nwogu

The list which includes President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg shockingly names Hollywood star Morgan Freeman, a move that's got social media buzzing.

Freeman was described on the list as: "a well-known film actor who in September 2017 recorded a video message accusing Russia of conspiring against the United States and calling for a fight against our country." It added that the actor "accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of using 'cyber warfare to attack democracies around the world,' and to his 'sworn enemy, the United States.'"

Is there a 2017 video?

Yes, there is! In 2017 the 84-year-old actor headlined a video by Committee to Investigate Russia, a nonprofit aiming to spread information about Russia’s role in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

In the introductory video, Freeman likened Russia's alleged influence on the elections to a movie script featuring a former KJB spy who sets out on a revenge mission. The actor ultimately accused Russia of continued attacks on America's democracy describing the U.S as being 'at War'.

"We need our president to speak directly to us and tell us the truth," Morgan says referring to former President Donald Trump. "We need him to sit behind the desk in the Oval Office and say ‘My fellow Americans, during this past election, we came under attack by the Russian government.'”

The infamous Russophobia list also features deceased politicians such as former Senator John McCain, R-Ariz.;&nbsp;Senator Harry Reid, D-Nev;&nbsp;and former deputy director of the&nbsp;Defense Intelligence Agency Melissa Drisko.

The actor joins the list of nearly 1000 Americans permanently banned from visiting Russia

Why is Morgan Freeman permanently banned from visiting Russia?

Tunde Young

Premier League club Burnley have reportedly been informed that they cannot sign Victor Moses from Spartak Moscow despite FIFA and UEFA’s recent ruling.

FIFA and UEFA made the joint decision to allow players from teams in Ukraine and Russia to join other European teams on short-term deals until the end of the season as a way to help them not get caught up in the ongoing melee between both nations.&nbsp;

And even though the transfer window is shut, Burnley sought to take advantage of the situation to land the ex-Nigerian international on a short-term deal but the move has been blocked by the Premier League despite all parties being willing to make it happen.

According to FIFA and UEFA’s ruling, Victor Moses is out of contract at least until the end of the current season.

This means the 31-year old is clubless, without income and isolated away from friends and family in the capital of Russia.

The Premier League along with some of the other top five European leagues opted against using this special dispensation from FIFA and UEFA on the grounds of protecting their “sporting integrity”.

The Premier League have reportedly blocked Burnley’s attempt to sign Victor Moses from Spartak Moscow.

Ex-Super Eagles star Victor Moses in limbo after Burnley’s failed attempt to rescue him from ongoing Russia situation

Chelsea owner, Roman Abramovich has been sanctioned by the United Kingdom over his alleged involvement with Russian President Vladamir Putin in the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) speaks as billionaire and businessman Roman Abramovich (L) looks on during a meeting with top businessmen.

Abramovich’s assets in the United Kingdom have been immediately frozen as well as a prohibition on transactions with UK individuals and businesses, a travel ban and transport sanctions were imposed.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "There can be no safe havens for those who have supported Putin's vicious assault on Ukraine. Today's sanctions are the latest step in the UK's unwavering support for the Ukrainian people. We will be ruthless in pursuing those who enable the killing of civilians, destruction of hospitals and illegal occupation of sovereign allies.”

The threat of such sanctions had lingered over the last week which was why Roman Abramovich was keen on selling Chelsea while he still had full control of the club.

But now the worst has happened, his assets including his beloved Chelsea Football Club have been frozen which means the club can now no longer be sold.

Roman Abramovich sanctioned by UK government for his involvement with Vladamir Putin

Roman Abramovich has been heavily sanctioned by the United Kingdom due to his involvement in the Russia/Ukraine crisis.

UK government sanctions Roman Abramovich, freeze all his assets including Chelsea FC

Temi Iwalaiye

With the ongoing war with Ukraine, many companies are ‘cancelling’ Russia by refusing to have any dealings with the country.

Here are 10 of them even though the number is more and keeps increasing;

Shell will be pulling out of its joint ventures in Russia.

Shell petroleum company has said it would no longer invest in Gazprom - a company owned by the Russian government.&nbsp;

These credit card companies would no longer function in Russian stores and ATMs. Any card issued by Russian banks wouldn’t work as well.

The CEO of Airbnb has announced on Twitter that the company will no longer be operating in Russia and Belarus

Netflix will also no longer be operating in Russia because they were required to air some propaganda shows.

Samsung has stopped all its shipments and sales in Russia.

Microsoft has also halted selling its product and services in Russia.

Apple has also halted its shipment to Russia and Apple Pay isn’t working there anymore.&nbsp;

Google has banned all ad sales, plus google maps do not work in Russia again.

The airline company has suspended operations in Moscow and does not carry maintenance and support for Russian airlines.

Twitter blocked ads in Russia perhaps to stop misinformation from spreading, the Russian government, in turn, banned Twitter from working there.

It is believed that this economic microaggression will cause the Russian/Ukraine war to end. This is bad new for their economy and it means life for those living in Russia just got more difficult.

The Netflix logo is displayed on a smartphone screen.

Many companies and apps do not work in Russia anymore.

10 apps and companies no longer working in Russia

Roman Abramovich is reportedly expected to receive and consider offers to sell Chelsea Football Club this week from multiple interest potential buyers.

The Russian billionaire relinquished control of Chelsea amid the tensions between his country and Ukraine and may now be forced to sell the club off totally.

Chelsea face an uncertain future amid potential sanctions for owner Roman Abramovich

That could present an opportunity for Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote to swoop in and fulfil his lifelong dream of owning a top Premier League club.

Although his heart has been set on Arsenal for almost the last decade, current owner Stan Kroenke has made it clear that he has no intention of selling.

Stan Kroenke has no intention of selling Arsenal

”It is a team that yes I would like to buy someday, but what I keep saying is we have $20billion worth of projects and that's what I really want to concentrate on. I'm trying to finish building the company and then after we finish, maybe sometime in 2021 we can.” Dangote said about Arsenal back in 2020.

Premier League clubs outside the top six are valued at between £150 million and £350 million while the top clubs go for at least £2 billion.

If his statement is to be believed, Dangote is now financially capable to buy a top Premier League club but with Kroenke still proving stubborn, it might be time to turn his attention away from Arsenal to their rivals, Chelsea.

Abramovich is under a lot of pressure personally right now because of his alleged link to Russian president Vladamir Putin which provides Dangote with an opportunity to swoop in and take advantage.

Abramovich has reportedly turned down bids of around £2.2 billion to buy Chelsea in the past but he was not in public distress at the time as he is now.

The previously rejected bids give Dangote who has a $14 billion net worth an idea of where to start bidding for and there is a better chance he might be successful this time with Roman Abramovich’s current predicament.

Dangote overtakes Chelsea owner Abramovich on list of world’s richest persons

However, the caveat is that Chelsea owes Abramovich over £1.5 billion in loans according to a report by The Telegraph which could make any negotiation difficult because that would have to be paid along with whatever Roman considers a fair price to buy the club.

It is important to note that this is all theoretical, Aliko Dangote has not spoken publicly about Chelsea, we do not even know if he has any such intentions.

But it would be so good to see Nigeria and Africa’s richest man own Chelsea, a club with a huge following in Nigeria and Africa at large.

Aliko Dangote should forget Arsenal and focus on buying Chelsea from Roman Abramovich (Africa Top Sports/Imago)

Roman Abramovich is reportedly considering selling Chelsea, here is why Aliko Dangote should be the frontrunner.

Why Aliko Dangote must abandon Arsenal dream and buy Chelsea from Abramovich

The Ukrainian Football Federation has announced the immediate suspension of the national league due to the military of Russia.

Six Nigerian players have been directly affected by this war because they play their football in Ukraine, three in the top-flight and three more in the second division.

Here is all you need to know about each one of Nigeria’s six Ukraine-based players who have been affected by the Russian invasion.

22-year old striker, Michael Gopey Stephen joined Ingulets in the Ukrainian Premier League in July 2021 as a free agent from Wikki Tourists.

He made an instant impact as he scored a brilliant goal on his debut after coming on as a substitute in a 2-1 defeat away at Shakhtar Donetsk. Gopey’s only other goal for the club was also scored off the bench, that time in a 3-0 win at home to Mauripol.&nbsp;

He has scored twice in 17 games for Ingulets but has only started seven times so far and his contract is set to expire in June 2022.

18-year old Michael Obamina joined Rukh Lviv in the Ukrainian Premier League in September 2021 from Super Stars Football Academy in Uyo.

He was spotted by Rukh Lviv as far back as 2019, and they showed a strong interest in the teenager but could not sign him until 2021 due to the global pandemic.

He is still in the first of his four-year deal but the winger is yet to make a single appearance for the club, reportedly still working with the under-19 team.

26-year old journeyman, Viv Solomon-Otabor only just signed for Rukh Lviv in January 2022 on a free transfer from St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership.

Solomon-Otabor came through the ranks at Birmingham and made 40 appearances for the club amidst loans to Oxford, Bolton, Portsmouth and Blackpool.

The winger would go on to join CSKA Sofia, Wigan and most recently St Johnstone before signing his one-year deal at Rukh Lviv, for whom he is still yet to play a game.

With the invasion of Ukraine and suspension of the league, it appears Viv Solomon-Otabor will have to wait a little longer for his debut.

Rivers State-born striker Henry Tedum Paago plays for Trustyanets in the Ukrainian second division, the Druga Liga.

23-year old Paago has worked his way through the lower leagues of Ukrainian football and played a major role in helping Trustyanets gain promotion to the second division where he currently has two goals in 10 appearances this season.

22-year old midfielder John David Chukwufumnanya is contracted to Real Pharma Odesa in the Ukrainian Druha Liga but he is yet to play for the club.

19-year old Bright John Essien was born in Abuja but plays in Ukraine with Peremoga Dnipro in the second division on a one-year deal which is set to expire in June.

The winger has only just breaking into the first team, with a solitary appearance for the team in a cup game.

How Vladamir Putin's military action against Ukraine affects Nigerian players

Russia has reportedly attacked Ukraine, leading to the immediate suspension of all football activities in the country, so here are the six Nigerian players directly affected.

6 Nigerian footballers affected by Russia-Ukraine tensions

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