Nigeria, often dubbed the “Giant of Africa,” stands at a pivotal crossroads. As Africa’s largest economy and home to one of the youngest populations globally, the country brims with potential. Yet, unlocking this promise requires addressing a long-standing challenge: the complex and often uneasy relationship between business and politics. Today, a new and urgent dimension adds further complexity—sustainability.

Politics and Business: A Tightly Woven Relationship
In Nigeria, politics and business have historically been inseparable. From the oil boom of the 1970s to the current tech-driven renaissance, government policies, political stability, and state interventions have consistently shaped market dynamics.

While stable periods have nurtured economic growth, challenges such as corruption, regulatory inconsistency, and political instability have frequently stifled innovation and discouraged investment. However, there are glimpses of progress. The country has made strides in democratic governance, marked by peaceful transitions of power, the rise of young political voices, and civic tech platforms demanding accountability. These developments signal a gradual shift toward transparent and responsive leadership.

Environmental Challenges: A Nation at Risk
If Nigeria is to fully realize its potential, sustainability must enter the national agenda. The country faces pressing environmental threats:

These crises underscore the need for urgent action. Within these challenges lies an opportunity—the potential rise of a green economy.

The Rise of a Green Economy: Opportunities Abound
Sustainability could reshape Nigeria’s economic future, with significant potential in sectors such as:

Policy Progress and Challenges
Nigeria has made encouraging policy moves, such as: Climate Change Act (2021): Mandates carbon budgeting and outlines pathways for sustainable development.
Net-zero pledge by 2060: Demonstrates commitment to combating climate change.

Yet, these ambitious targets alone are insufficient. Corruption, entrenched interests, and bureaucratic inefficiencies continue to slow progress. The nation needs not just policies but bold political courage. Leaders must prioritize environmental protection, foster green innovation, and integrate sustainability into economic planning. Only then can Nigeria diversify beyond oil, create jobs, and raise living standards while safeguarding its environment.

The Call for Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is no longer optional for Nigeria—it is essential. As climate risks escalate, the stakes are clear: adapt or face dire consequences. Businesses, policymakers, and civil society must forge a new social contract that balances economic growth with environmental preservation and social equity.

Nigeria possesses the talent, entrepreneurial drive, and natural resources to lead Africa’s green revolution. The question is no longer if this transformation will happen, but when and how quickly. Success will depend on the strength of its politics, the vision of its business leaders, and the determination of its people.

In a groundbreaking move that highlights the increasing global importance of Central Asia, the European Union and the Central Asian nations have elevated their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership. This development emerged from the first-ever EU-Central Asia Summit, held on April 4, 2025, in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Leaders from the EU and the five Central Asian republics—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—came together to forge a new path of cooperation.

A Critical Moment in Global Politics

The summit took place amid a shifting global landscape, marked by alliances in flux, economic recovery following Covid-19, and the continuing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Central Asia’s strategic value—both economically and geopolitically—has driven the EU to deepen engagement in the region. This partnership also reflects Europe’s response to the growing influence of China and Russia in Central Asia.

Central Asia’s Geopolitical Importance

Home to vast natural resources like oil, gas, and rare earth minerals, Central Asia holds a pivotal role in global trade. Its location at the crossroads of Asia, Russia, and Europe gives the region added significance, especially as initiatives like the Middle Corridor—a trade route connecting Europe to Asia while bypassing Russia—gain prominence.

The Samarkand Declaration: Defining Areas of Cooperation

The Samarkand Summit produced the Samarkand Declaration, a blueprint for the new strategic relationship between the EU and Central Asia. Key areas of focus include:

An Alternative to Chinese and Russian Influence

By emphasizing democratic values, multilateral cooperation, and good governance, the EU positions itself as a counterbalance to authoritarian models advanced by China and Russia. The partnership offers Central Asia a sustainable, inclusive growth path that aligns with European values.

A Shift from Confrontation to Collaboration

The EU-Central Asia Strategic Partnership represents a step toward collaboration in a region of growing global importance. Central Asia's natural resources, expanding markets, and crucial trade routes place it at the heart of Europe’s economic and security strategies.

A Transformative Chapter

The Samarkand Summit marks a new phase in regional relations. However, the success of this strategic partnership will depend on how effectively both sides implement the initiatives outlined in the Samarkand Declaration. For the EU and Central Asia, this collaboration holds the promise of interconnected growth, shared prosperity, and greater stability.

In a sweeping shift that has sent tremors through global markets and reignited geopolitical tensions, the United States has rolled out a series of aggressive tariffs on imported goods. Marking one of the most significant reversals of free trade policy in decades, the move has disrupted diplomatic relations and raised questions about the future of globalization, international trade governance, and the U.S.'s role in the global economy.

The White House’s Justification: Correcting Trade Imbalances
The White House views the tariffs as part of a broader effort to correct chronic trade imbalances and revive manufacturing jobs lost to decades of outsourcing. Officials argue that past trade deals have disproportionately favored foreign producers at the expense of American industry, asserting that the U.S. can no longer afford to subsidize and support other economies while hollowing out its own.

Critics Warn of Political Motives and Economic Risks
However, critics contend that the tariffs are politically motivated, designed to energize domestic constituencies ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. While short-term gains may seem favorable, long-term risks—including higher prices, supply chain disruptions, and retaliatory tariffs—could weigh heavily on the U.S. economy.

Global Retaliation: China and the EU Respond
China's Swift Countermeasures

China, which exported over $500 billion worth of goods to the U.S. in 2024, retaliated quickly by announcing a 34% blanket tariff on all American imports, effective April 10. Beijing has also threatened to restrict exports of rare earth minerals—critical to U.S. defense, electronics, and energy sectors—and has filed a formal complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO), accusing the U.S. of violating key trade agreements.

The European Union’s Response

Meanwhile, the European Union is preparing its own countermeasures. European Commission President Ursula condemned the U.S. tariffs as economically shortsighted and politically regressive. The EU is drafting a list of retaliatory tariffs targeting U.S. agricultural goods, aircraft parts, and tech products, with potential impacts exceeding £26 billion.

In a sign of growing diplomatic realignment, China and the EU are reportedly exploring new trade mechanisms to bypass U.S. dominance, signaling a potential redrawing of global trade alliances.

Financial Markets in Turmoil
The financial markets have reacted with notable volatility. Wall Street experienced a $2.5 trillion wipeout within days of the tariff announcement, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq posting their sharpest single-day drops since 2020. This volatility could signal the beginning of a broader market correction, particularly for sectors reliant on imports and global supply chains, such as technology, retail, and auto manufacturing.

Rising Consumer Prices and Industry Fallout
At the consumer level, prices are expected to rise significantly. Retailers have already warned of impending markups on a wide range of goods, from electronics to household essentials. U.S. farmers, heavily reliant on exports to China and Europe, are bracing for losses as foreign markets impose restrictions on American soybeans, pork, and corn.

Stagflation Fears Loom
The tariffs have also sparked fears of stagflation—a dangerous combination of rising inflation and slowing economic growth. With interest rates still elevated to combat previous inflationary pressures, the Federal Reserve now faces a precarious balancing act in managing monetary policy.

A New Geopolitical Reality
Beyond economics, the tariffs represent a deeper geopolitical shift. As the U.S. seeks to decouple from global supply chains and assert trade independence, other nations are reevaluating their reliance on American markets. The emerging trend points toward the formation of economic blocs—one led by China and the other by the U.S.—each backed by regional partners and new trade agreements.

This fracturing of global trade dynamics risks reducing economic efficiency, fueling inflation, and escalating economic conflicts into broader political disputes.

The WTO’s Diminished Role
The World Trade Organization now faces a crisis of relevance, as major powers increasingly bypass or challenge its authority. While some analysts argue that the U.S. could be using tariffs as leverage to renegotiate better trade deals, ongoing retaliation could plunge the global economy into a prolonged slowdown.

A Fractured Future for Global Trade
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: global trade is entering a more fractured and contentious era. Protectionism is no longer a fringe policy but a mainstream approach in several of the world's largest economies. Whether this shift results in resilience or regression will depend on how governments and businesses navigate the complex challenges ahead.

China and the United States have long competed for dominance, each striving to uphold its status as the "world superpower." This ongoing rivalry has been fueled by U.S. trade deficits, accusations of intellectual property (IP) theft by China, state subsidies, and limited market access for American businesses in China. The rapid development of China's trade and manufacturing sectors has created economic stability for China, simultaneously raising concerns within the U.S. about losing its global influence.

The Origins of Escalating Tensions
The current wave of U.S.–China economic conflict can be traced back to the first term of President Donald Trump. In 2017, the U.S. began implementing aggressive economic policies against China. In 2018, the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on $50 billion worth of Chinese goods, citing unfair trade practices. In retaliation, China imposed a 25% tariff on American agricultural exports and curtailed imports of U.S. energy and manufactured goods.

Alliances and Strategic Positioning
In the ongoing struggle for global influence, both China and the U.S. have sought to build alliances with other nations to bolster their positions. Through policies and economic initiatives, each side aims to gather support and maintain their claims to supremacy, deepening the global division between East and West.

The Global Fallout: Impact on Developing Nations
The rivalry between these two superpowers has had severe consequences for poorer countries, whose economies are heavily dependent on global trade and investment from wealthier nations. Many emerging economies find themselves caught in the crossfire, facing instability and diminished opportunities as the East-West divide deepens.

New U.S. Leadership and Renewed Trade Aggression
Earlier this year, under newly re-elected President Donald Trump, the U.S. administration introduced a fresh set of economic policies aimed at what he termed "restoring the glory of the United States." However, these policies have reignited tensions and plunged global markets into further uncertainty, exacerbating existing strains on international commerce.

Ripple Effects Across Global Markets
Among the new measures, the U.S. imposed a 10% tariff on Chinese imports to curb American dependence on Chinese goods. The move had immediate effects on various markets:

Broader Economic Disruptions: Supply Chains and Inflation
The U.S.–China trade conflict has disrupted global supply chains, contributed to inflationary pressures, and triggered shifts in global trade alliances. Without an industrial base comparable to China, U.S. tariffs have led to increased domestic prices and trade deficits. In response, China has sought alternative markets for its exports, accelerating a realignment of international trade networks.

Countries such as India, Mexico, and Vietnam are repositioning themselves as alternative hubs for manufacturing and supply chains, reducing reliance on either China or the U.S.

Technological Decoupling and Innovation Race
Another major consequence of the rivalry is technological decoupling. Both nations are racing to outpace each other in fields such as:

This competitive push has fostered innovation but has also heightened divisions in global technology standards and collaborations.

Geopolitical Tensions and Global Division
The escalating trade war is also fueling geopolitical tensions. Countries are increasingly forced to choose sides—either aligning with the East or the West—or risk losing critical economic and diplomatic support. This bifurcation threatens global unity and has made international relations more volatile.

A Battle With Global Consequences
Although both nations claim to pursue stronger trade and economic systems, their actions often resemble a strategic battle for dominance rather than fair economic development. As competition persists, China and the U.S. must recognize the broader consequences of their rivalry. Global economic stability, mutual respect, and responsible leadership are essential if the world is to avoid deeper divisions and prolonged economic instability.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a country of immense potential yet deep contradictions. Rich in natural resources and home to a young, dynamic population, it has the foundations for economic growth. However, political instability, armed conflict, and corruption continue to hinder progress. Despite these challenges, technological innovation is reshaping key sectors, offering hope for a brighter future.

The DRC’s political history has been marked by coups, civil wars, and contested elections. The 2023 elections secured President Félix Tshisekedi a second term, but allegations of electoral fraud and governance inefficiencies persist. Corruption and weak institutions deter foreign investment, with the DRC ranked 166th out of 180 countries in Transparency International’s 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index.

Efforts to reform the business environment are underway, including a revised mining code and the establishment of the Economic and Social Council (CESC) in 2022. However, bureaucratic inefficiencies and weak enforcement remain significant obstacles.

Economic Landscape: Rich Resources, Unfulfilled Potential
The DRC holds the world’s largest cobalt reserves, critical for electric vehicle (EV) batteries, alongside significant deposits of copper, gold, and diamonds. Mining contributed 17% of GDP and over 95% of export revenue in 2022. Yet, illegal mining operations, political interference, and inadequate infrastructure prevent the sector from reaching its full potential.

Beyond mining, industries like agriculture and telecom are showing resilience. Mobile money services offered by companies like Orange and Vodacom are expanding rapidly, while agribusiness startups are improving food supply chains despite logistical challenges.

China and the USA: Competing for Influence
China has established itself as the DRC’s largest economic partner, particularly in the mining sector. Chinese firms control significant portions of cobalt and copper mining operations, with companies like China Molybdenum and Zijin Mining leading production. However, concerns over exploitative contracts and environmental damage have led the Congolese government to renegotiate some deals.

The United States, meanwhile, is countering China’s influence by focusing on three key areas:

Despite these efforts, U.S. companies remain cautious due to political instability and security risks.

Conflict and Its Economic Impact
Eastern DRC remains plagued by conflict, with the resurgence of the M23 rebel group exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Violence has displaced over 6.9 million people and disrupted key trade routes, particularly in North Kivu. Accusations of Rwanda backing M23 have strained regional relations and complicated peace efforts.

In response to ongoing instability, innovation has emerged:

The Rise of DRC’s Tech Sector
Despite persistent political challenges, the DRC’s tech sector is on the rise. Kinshasa and Lubumbashi are emerging as hubs for fintech, e-commerce, and agritech. Mobile money services have brought financial inclusion to millions, with mobile penetration reaching 46% by 2023.

Key drivers of this growth include:

Turning Challenges into Opportunities
The DRC stands at a crossroads. With abundant natural resources, a youthful population, and a growing tech ecosystem, the country holds immense promise. Yet, realizing this potential will require political reforms, stronger institutions, improved security, and sustained investment.

International partners will play a crucial role in shaping the DRC’s future. By balancing global partnerships with ambitious domestic reforms, the DRC could transform its natural wealth into long-term prosperity—and emerge as Africa’s next economic powerhouse.

Martial law, the temporary imposition of military control over civilian government functions, often raises concerns about civil liberties, concentration of power, and human rights abuses. In South Korea, President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law in late 2024 triggered an unprecedented political crisis, shaking the nation’s democratic foundations.

The Crisis Unfolds

In December 2024, President Yoon declared martial law, citing threats to national security amid mounting opposition from the National Assembly. This move faced fierce resistance from opposition parties, activists, and the public, who viewed it as an attempt to consolidate power. The National Assembly swiftly moved to impeach Yoon, marking only the second impeachment of a sitting president in South Korea’s history.

Following Yoon’s impeachment, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assumed the role of acting president but was impeached shortly after. This left Finance Minister Choi Sang-mak next in line for leadership, further deepening the nation’s instability.

Nationwide Protests and Divided Opinions

Massive rallies erupted across South Korea, with supporters of Yoon arguing that his actions were necessary to curb anti-state activities, while critics accused him of an authoritarian power grab. Protesters in Seoul and other major cities demanded a resolution to the crisis and the restoration of democratic order.

Legal and Political Fallout

As the Constitutional Court deliberates on Yoon’s impeachment, other high-ranking officials face legal scrutiny. Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun is on trial for alleged insurrection related to the martial law decree, denying any wrongdoing. Meanwhile, the United States has classified South Korea as a “sensitive” country, potentially impacting bilateral relations and cooperation in sectors like energy and technology.

Uncertain Future

As of March 2025, the crisis remains unresolved. The Constitutional Court continues to review Yoon’s impeachment, with arguments on whether his actions violated the constitution. If the court rules against Yoon, a new presidential election may be scheduled within months. If reinstated, South Korea could face further unrest as opposition groups vow to continue protests.

The Democratic Party has introduced a motion to impeach Acting President Choi Sang-mok, accusing him of obstructing judicial appointments and vetoing key legislation. If this impeachment proceeds, South Korea risks another leadership vacuum, exacerbating instability.

Economic and International Implications

Economic uncertainty looms as foreign investors express concerns over the prolonged crisis. The South Korean won has fluctuated amid political instability, while relations with the United States and China remain under scrutiny as both powers monitor South Korea’s shifting political landscape.

At a Crossroads

South Korea’s democratic resilience is being tested as the nation grapples with leadership turmoil and public discontent. The resolution of this crisis will shape the country’s political landscape, governance, and international reputation for years to come. As the world watches, South Korea must navigate these turbulent times while preserving its democratic integrity and ensuring a stable future.