Chioma Ajunwa, Nigeria’s first Olympic Gold medalist, won the Women’s Long Jump in Atlanta 1996 with a 7.12-meter jump.

She received a national honor, chieftaincy title, Nigeria Centenary Award, Golden Jubilee Independence Award, and a three-bedroom apartment from Lagos State in 2021.

A 35-year veteran of the police force, she retired as Deputy Commissioner. Ajunwa’s legacy inspires Nigeria.

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Nigerian Gender Rights Advocate and Lawyer, Omowumi Ogunrotimi, Honored with the 2025 Global Citizen Prize

Renowned Nigerian gender rights advocate and lawyer, Omowumi Ogunrotimi has been honored with the prestigious 2025 Global Citizen Prize at an award ceremony held in New York City on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

Omowumi was celebrated alongside other distinguished changemakers: Valeriia Rachynska of Ukraine, Taily Terena of Brazil, and Lydia Amenyaglo of Ghana, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to advancing equity and justice in their respective communities.

Omowumi Ogunrotimi’s recognition is a global acknowledgment of her impactful work and footprints in the gender ecosystem including leading the advocacy effort that resulted in the passage of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill by the Federal House of Representatives and the localization of sexual harassment prevention frameworks by 26 sub-national governments.

The high-profile event attracted global attention and was attended by world leaders, policy influencers, and human rights advocates. Notable dignitaries present included United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, Sarah, Duchess of York, celebrated science educator Bill Nye, and Professor José Manuel Barroso, Chair of the Gavi Board.

Prince Harry has paid tribute to Ghanaian World War II veteran WO1 Joseph Ashitey Hammond with a special video message celebrating his 100th birthday. Calling him “a hero of Ghana,” the Duke of Sussex expressed his gratitude for Hammond’s military service and lifelong dedication to veterans and his country. He also presented Hammond with a commemorative Invictus Medal Coin in recognition of his continued service.

WO1 Hammond served in the British Army’s Gold Coast Regiment during World War II, taking part in campaigns in East Africa and Burma. His contribution highlights Ghana’s vital yet often underrepresented role in the Allied war effort. Even decades after the war, Hammond remained committed to service, raising funds for frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The veteran and Prince Harry first met in London in 2019, forging a connection that has deepened over time. In appreciation of the birthday message, Hammond sent Harry a copy of his memoir. Celebrating his centenary, Hammond not only marks a personal achievement but also stands as a symbol of the courage and legacy of Ghanaian soldiers who helped shape global history.

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In a significant development, India's Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, has publicly acknowledged that Indian fighter jets were lost during the recent conflict with Pakistan, known as Operation Sindoor. This marks the first official confirmation from the Indian military regarding such losses.

General Chauhan, speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, emphasized the importance of understanding the reasons behind the losses rather than focusing on the number of aircraft downed. He stated, "What is important is not the jet being down, but why they were being down," highlighting the need to analyze and rectify tactical mistakes. He dismissed Pakistan's claim of shooting down six Indian warplanes as "absolutely incorrect" but chose not to disclose the exact number of jets lost.

The conflict, which escalated in May 2025 following a terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, saw intense aerial engagements between the two nations. India conducted airstrikes targeting what it described as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. In response, Pakistan claimed to have downed multiple Indian aircraft, including advanced Rafale jets.

General Chauhan noted that after the initial setbacks, the Indian Air Force quickly adapted its tactics. He mentioned that the force understood the tactical mistakes made, remedied them, and resumed operations with improved strategies, including long-range targeting.

Both countries have since declared a ceasefire, with no indications of nuclear escalation during the conflict. However, the situation remains tense, and the international community continues to monitor developments closely.
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