Trump Misses Out on 2025 Nobel Peace Prize as Venezuelan Opposition Leader Takes Honor

 Trump Misses Out on 2025 Nobel Peace Prize as Venezuelan Opposition Leader Takes Honor

Oslo, Norway – October 11, 2025 – The Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado for her steadfast efforts to promote democracy and a peaceful transition from authoritarian rule in her country, leaving former U.S. President Donald Trump, a vocal contender, empty-handed despite multiple nominations and a high-profile campaign.

The decision, announced Friday, October 10, recognized Machado’s non-violent resistance against Venezuela’s regime, aligning with the committee’s emphasis on sustained contributions to global harmony, as outlined in Alfred Nobel’s will. Trump, who returned to the White House in January 2025 and was nominated by allies including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Pakistani officials, was passed over due to a combination of timing, a mixed foreign policy record, and the committee’s preference for quiet diplomacy.

Timing Limits Trump’s Recent Diplomatic Wins

With nominations closing January 31, 2025—just days after Trump’s inauguration—the committee could only consider achievements from his first term or earlier. High-profile efforts in 2025, such as brokering an initial Gaza ceasefire phase announced days before the award or facilitating Ukraine-Russia talks, came too late for evaluation. The committee finalized its decision on October 7, before the Gaza deal materialized. Late nominations from countries like Cambodia and Pakistan were also deemed ineligible, further dimming Trump’s prospects.

Foreign Policy Record Clashes with Nobel Ideals

Trump’s “America First” approach, marked by withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement, the World Health Organization, and arms-control treaties, as well as imposing tariffs on allies and criticizing NATO and the U.N., contrasted with the Nobel’s focus on “fraternity between nations” and multilateral cooperation. His administration’s dismantling of USAID under advisor Elon Musk further distanced him from the humanitarian and disarmament ideals prized by the committee. “The Nobel seeks bridge-builders, not disruptors,” said Nina Græger, director of the Peace Research Institute Oslo.

Self-Promotion Raises Eyebrows

Trump’s overt lobbying for the prize, including public boasts of ending “seven wars” and hints at economic pressure on Norway, clashed with the committee’s preference for “quiet, low-key” peacemakers. Allies’ nominations, such as those from Azerbaijan and Israel, were perceived by some as political flattery rather than merit-based endorsements. “He had no chance at all with that approach,” historian Asle Sveen told reporters, noting the committee’s aversion to self-promotion.

Contested Claims of Peacemaking

While Trump touted achievements like the Abraham Accords, which normalized ties between Israel and several Arab states, critics argue they sidestepped core Palestinian issues, falling short of comprehensive peace. Claims of de-escalating India-Pakistan tensions were denied by Indian officials, and the Gaza ceasefire has faced early violations, undermining its durability. The committee prioritizes measurable, lasting accomplishments, a benchmark Trump’s efforts have yet to fully meet.

Machado’s Win Reflects Nobel Trends

Machado’s award, praised for her courage against Venezuela’s authoritarian regime, fits the committee’s recent pattern of honoring activists and journalists who champion human rights and democracy. Trump congratulated Machado via social media, resharing her dedication of the prize to him, but the White House called the decision “politics over peace.”

As the Nobel Committee looks to enduring contributions, Trump’s future eligibility could hinge on the longevity of his 2025 diplomatic efforts, such as the Gaza ceasefire. For now, Machado’s quiet resilience has carried the day.

Two Years After October 7, 2023: A World Still Grappling with Grief, Resilience, and Division

Two Years After October 7, 2023: A World Still Grappling with Grief, Resilience, and Division.

October 8, 2025 – Two years ago, the world woke to news that shattered hearts and reshaped history. On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a devastating terrorist attack on Israel, killing over 1,200 people, kidnapping 251, and sparking a war that has claimed tens of thousands of lives. Today, as we mark the second anniversary, the world pauses to reflect—not just on the tragedy but on a conflict that continues to ripple across borders, politics, and human lives. From memorials at the Nova Music Festival to protests in global cities, the question looms: What has changed, and what lies ahead?

This isn’t just a news story—it’s a human one. It’s about survivors like those at Kibbutz Reim, twins born in Gaza amid airstrikes, and a global audience searching for answers. Here's a deep dive into the stories, impacts, and questions driving today’s conversations.

The Day That Changed Everything: What Happened on October 7, 2023?

On the morning of October 7, 2023, Hamas militants breached Israel’s border in a coordinated attack, targeting civilians at homes, kibbutzim, and the Nova Music Festival. The festival, meant to be a celebration of peace and music, became a site of unimaginable horror: 364 attendees were killed, and 40 were taken hostage. Across southern Israel, families were torn apart, with 1,200 lives lost in a single day. The attack triggered an Israeli military response in Gaza, leading to over 41,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza health authorities, and displacing millions.

The raw footage—some shared by survivors, others by attackers—flooded social media, leaving a global audience in shock. Today, those images resurface as memorials and vigils honor the lost. Searches for “October 7 2023 attack explained” have surged 300% this week as people seek to understand the event’s scale and legacy.

A Human Toll: Stories That Define the Anniversary

The anniversary isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. At the Nova Music Festival site, survivors gathered this week to light candles and share stories. One survivor, 26-year-old Maya, recounted hiding for hours as gunfire echoed: “I thought I’d never see my family again. Today, I’m here, but part of me is still there.” Her story, shared on TikTok, has garnered over 2 million views, reflecting the emotional pull of these accounts.

In Gaza, the war birthed a generation in crisis. Twins Uday and Hamza Abu Odah, born just days after the attack, symbolize hope amid chaos. Their mother, Amal, told NPR, “I want them to know peace, but all they’ve known is war.” These stories resonate, driving searches like “Hamas attack survivor stories” and “Gaza children 2025.”

Meanwhile, the hostage crisis lingers. Of the 251 taken in 2023, 97 remain unaccounted for, though some, like Nimrod Cohen, were recently freed, sparking viral celebrations on X with over 5 million impressions. These personal narratives keep the story alive, fueling global empathy and debate.

Global Ripples: How October 7 Reshaped the World

The attack didn’t just change Israel and Gaza—it sent shockwaves worldwide. Here are three ways it’s still shaping 2025:

1. Geopolitical Tensions and US Politics

The anniversary coincides with heightened global security concerns. In the US, President Donald Trump’s controversial deployment of the National Guard to cities like Chicago and Portland—ostensibly to curb immigration-related unrest—has been linked to “October 7” fears of terrorism. Critics, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), have called it a political stunt, with AOC’s fiery X post (“Stephen Miller’s playbook is tearing communities apart”) racking up 1.2 million likes. Searches for “Trump National Guard 2025” are climbing, tying domestic policy to global conflict.

The war also strained US-Israel relations. Biden’s 2023 aid package to Israel sparked protests, while Trump’s recent UN appearance, vowing unwavering support, reignited debates. Globally, nations like Iran and Turkey face scrutiny for their roles, with “Iran Israel conflict” trending alongside anniversary queries.

2. Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Gaza’s plight remains a flashpoint. Over 41,000 deaths, 1.9 million displaced, and a looming famine have drawn UN and NGO focus. This week, aid groups like Save the Children launched campaigns, with #GazaAid2025 trending on X (3M+ engagements). Yet, Israel’s ongoing operations—targeting Hamas but devastating civilians—spark polarized reactions. A viral BBC report quoted a Gaza resident: “We’re not Hamas, but we’re the ones buried under rubble.” Balancing these perspectives in your comments below can spark meaningful discussion.

3. Protests and Solidarity Movements

From London to New York, protests mark the anniversary. In Israel, vigils at Kibbutz Reim draw thousands, while anti-war marches in US cities demand a ceasefire. X posts show clashes at universities, with #FreePalestine and #StandWithIsrael each nearing 10 million engagements. This polarization drives searches like “October 7 protests 2025,” as people grapple with where they stand.

Abesan Estate Residents' Youth Association March for Peace and Unity on Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day

Abesan Estate Residents' Youth Association March for Peace and Unity on Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day

Residents of Abesan Estate in Ipaja, Lagos, came together for a vibrant Walk for Peace and Unity on Wednesday October 1, marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day. 

Despite a heavy morning rain delaying the start, the event kicked off around 9 a.m., led by the youth president Mr. Ayo Durojaiye and his executive. Joined by enthusiastic residents, especially the youth, the procession began at School Junction and wound through the estate’s avenues, ending at the Abesan Youth Centre on the 5th avenue.

The walk was filled with energy, music and drumming which kept spirits high from start to finish. Speaking to Alimosho Standard, the president of the youth association shared the goal of the event. “We already have unity in our community, but we want to make it stronger,” he said. “This walk is about bringing residents closer so families can live in peace.”

The event saw participation from key figures, including the leadership of the Abesan Estate Residents' Association (AERA), led by vice president Prince Fapohunda Babatunde. Also present were the two candidates running for president in the upcoming Abesan elections, Mr. Sunday Ale and Mr. Shina Dare, who both showed their support for community harmony.

The walk took place as Lagos joined the rest of Nigeria in celebrating Independence Day. In a national address, President Bola Tinubu spoke about economic challenges, stating that his administration inherited a struggling economy but is working toward recovery. He encouraged Nigerians to focus on productivity and unity.

The Abesan Estate Walk for Peace and Unity reflects the community’s commitment to togetherness, mirroring Lagos’ spirit of resilience on this historic day. As the estate looks forward, events like this strengthen the bonds that hold its residents together.

Adunni Sparks Brilliance at Mosan-Okunola Spelling Bee

Adunni Sparks Brilliance at Mosan-Okunola Spelling Bee   

On Monday, September 29, Mosan-Okunola LCDA’s council hall buzzed with excitement as pupils and students from public schools competed in the Annual Spelling Bee. The event, a Lagos State tradition, featured participants from Alimosho Senior Grammar School, State High School, Jakande Estate Comprehensive, Abesan Senior High School, and State Senior High School in the secondary category, and African Church Primary School, Abesan Primary School, Estate Primary School, and Housing Estate Primary School in the primary category.

Council boss Hon. Akindele Adunni Opeyemi, known as “Adunni in the Neighborhood,” joined Vice Chairman Hon. Akintola Falade, councillors, and other dignitaries. A professional teacher turned politician, Adunni engaged students in a lively holiday-sharing session, rewarding them with educative notebooks containing LCDA history and the national anthem. She praised Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the competition’s founder, and announced that the secondary and primary winners would serve as one-day chairman and vice chairman, respectively, urging students to “study hard and make us proud!”

The competition saw fierce displays of talent. Bamgbose Tioluwanimi of Estate Primary School won the primary category, followed by Edet Emmanuel and Akinola Omotayo. In the secondary category, Olukayi Opeyeme of Abesan Junior High School took first, with Emmanuel Ruth and Frank Ebychulam in second and third positions.

Adunni’s inspiring words and the students’ stellar performances highlighted Mosan-Okunola’s commitment to academic excellence.

Ikorodu and Epe lead in infrastructure vandalism -Ikeja Electric

Ikorodu and Epe lead in infrastructure vandalism -Ikeja Electric

Lagos, Nigeria; September 29, 2025

In a decisive move to curb the rising tide of electrical infrastructure vandalism, Ikeja Electric Plc (IE) convened a stakeholder engagement forum with community leaders, the National Youth Council, security agencies, and representatives from Epe Local Government Area (LGA), Ikosi-Ejirin, and Eredo Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). The meeting, held at the Epe Local Government Secretariat, aimed to forge a united front against vandalism, which has severely disrupted power supply in the region.

TRANSPARENT TENDER OPENING FOR SIX VITAL ROAD PROJECTS: Mosan Okunola LCDA has never experienced such openness in projects execution process before - ALHAJI YISA YUSUF (YY)

TRANSPARENT TENDER OPENING FOR SIX VITAL ROAD PROJECTS: Mosan Okunola LCDA has never experienced such openness in projects execution process before - ALHAJI YISA YUSUF (YY)

The Mosan Okunola Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has taken a significant step towards improving infrastructure in the community with the holding of a tender opening for the reconstruction of six vital road projects. The event, which was held at the Secretariat Hall, on Monday 1st September, 2025 was marked by transparency and inclusivity, reflecting the administration's commitment to good governance.

COUNCILORS, LEGISLATIVE STAFF EMPOWERED AT BADAGRY WORKSHOP

COUNCILORS, LEGISLATIVE STAFF EMPOWERED AT BADAGRY WORKSHOP

In a bid to strengthen grassroots governance and enhance legislative efficiency, newly elected councilors and legislative staff from Lagos State's local governments and local council development areas recently converged on Topo, Badagry, for a three-day intensive workshop on legislative management.

My Campaign Promises for Abesan Remain Intact, Akindele Reaffirms

My Campaign Promises for Abesan Remain Intact, Akindele Reaffirms

In a heartwarming display of commitment, Hon. Opeyemi Adunni Akindele, Chairman of Mosan Okunola Local Council Development Area (LCDA), has reiterated her dedication to fulfilling her campaign promises to the people of Abesan Estate. This assurance was made during a courtesy visit by the Abesan Estate Residents' Association (AERA) executive, led by President Elder Michael A. Kehinde, on Tuesday, August 19, 2025.

Power Companies Refute Receivership Claims

Power Companies Refute Receivership Claims

Egbin Power Plc, Ikeja Electric Plc, and First Independent Power Limited have denied reports claiming they are in receivership, describing the allegations as false and malicious.

According to Babatunde Osadare, Chief Legal and Regulatory Officer of Ikeja Electric, "Egbin Power Plc, First Independent Power Limited, and Ikeja Electric Plc are absolutely not in Receivership, and their assets, businesses, or undertakings are not under the management of any external Receiver/Manager whatsoever."

The power companies' management cited a court ruling on August 5, 2025, which restrained lenders and their purported receiver/manager from taking adverse actions, including interfering with the companies' assets and operations.

"We urge the general public, our valued customers, financial partners, regulators, and all stakeholders to completely disregard the falsehoods presented in the aforementioned This Day advertorials and any related, unfolding misleading press releases," Osadare said.

The companies reassured stakeholders of their commitment to developing Nigeria's power sector and providing reliable electricity. "Egbin Power, First Independent Power, and Ikeja Electric remain fully operational, financially stable, and firmly under the control of their legitimate management," Osadare added.

Agbado Okeodo LCDA Chairman Inspects Area Offices, PHCs

Agbado Okeodo LCDA Chairman Inspects Area Offices, PHCs

On Tuesday, August 5, 2025, the Chairman of Agbado Okeodo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Abiodun Ishola Ejigbadero, led a team of key officials on an inspection tour of Area Offices and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) across the LCDA.

The tour aimed to assess the current state of these facilities and identify areas requiring urgent intervention. During the visit, the chairman also met with the LGEA Education Secretary for Alimosho, Hon. Airat Alamu, and inspected the Ile-Epo Market to gain a firsthand understanding of the prevailing conditions.

Akindele Partners with NGO to Tackle Postpartum Hemorrhage

Akindele Partners with NGO to Tackle Postpartum Hemorrhage

In a bid to reduce maternal mortality rates, the Executive Chairman of Mosan-Okunola Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Akindele Adunni Opeyemi, has partnered with an NGO, Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARD C) to host a community engagement programme on postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).