David Balogun

President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigeria's legislature to prioritize funding and reforms for the nation's space program, emphasizing its critical role in driving national development and maintaining Africa's technological leadership. Speaking at the 25th-anniversary celebration of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Tinubu highlighted the transformative potential of space exploration. The President, represented by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Uche Nnaji, stressed the importance of strengthening NASRDA's legislative framework and increasing budgetary support. He noted the significant shift from an era when space exploration was exclusively dominated by major global powers to a time when African nations can play pivotal roles. Key points of Tinubu's address included: Calling for enhanced legislative support to solidify Nigeria's position in the fourth industrial revolution Highlighting space technology's crucial role in understanding Earth's surface Emphasizing space technologies' importance in communication, […]

The idyllic Laotian town of Vang Vieng, renowned for its stunning scenery and vibrant backpacker scene, is grappling with the aftermath of a tragic incident that claimed the lives of six tourists. Suspected methanol poisoning from contaminated alcohol has cast a shadow over the town, raising concerns about safety and prompting warnings from authorities worldwide. Despite the tragedy, Vang Vieng's popularity among young travelers remains largely undiminished. The town's reputation for affordable adventure and a laid-back atmosphere continues to attract backpackers from across the globe, particularly those following the "Banana Pancake Trail" through Southeast Asia. While the recent deaths have sparked anxieties, particularly among young female travelers, many backpackers remain undeterred, expressing confidence in the safety of the town and emphasizing the need for caution when consuming alcohol. "I think we're going to give the tubing a miss," shared two […]

Tragedy has struck again as a second Australian teenager, Holly Bowles, has died from suspected methanol poisoning in Laos. This brings the total number of foreign tourists who have lost their lives after allegedly consuming tainted alcohol in the Southeast Asian country to six. Ms. Bowles, 19, passed away in a Thai hospital more than a week after falling ill in the popular tourist town of Vang Vieng. Her friend, Bianca Jones, also 19, and British lawyer Simone White, 28, were previously confirmed to have died from the suspected poisoning. An American man and two Danish women are also among the victims. Holly's family released a statement expressing their devastation and remembering her vibrant spirit and love for life. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong offered her condolences and reiterated warnings about the dangers of methanol poisoning. Methanol, a toxic alcohol […]