I Learn You by Listening

Has kindness flown away, A gentle bird, no longer near? Human hearts, are they changing slow, Love's warm light, becoming unclear?

I see a world, where "me" is loud, And "we" is whispered, soft and low. Even homes, meant to bring us peace, Sometimes forget the seeds to sow.

So many hearts, begin to ache, The world itself cries out for aid. Where has the tender touch now gone? If feelings fade, the beauty’s swayed.

Come close, dear friends, let’s join our hands, And build a bridge of gentle grace. For life's true joy, a treasure bright, Is found in every warm embrace.

The walls we build, of race and creed, Divide us, keep us far apart. Bitterness blooms, from seeds of hate, And war tears families, breaks each heart.

Love's soft answer, is all we crave, With kindness growing, strong and true. Come love, come feeling, touch our souls, Without you both, what shall we do?

Analysis Shows 33.3% of Nigerians in the USA Depend on Welfare- Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump has published a detailed list outlining the percentage of immigrant households receiving public assistance in the United States, segmented by their countries of origin. This report appears to focus on welfare dependency among immigrant communities and its implications for domestic policies, an issue that has been a recurring theme in Republican political discourse. According to the data highlighted in the list, approximately 33.3 percent of Nigerian immigrant households in the United States are recipients of some form of government assistance. The report categorizes support as benefits stemming from programs such as food stamps, healthcare aid, and other social welfare initiatives. This chart, titled (Immigrant Welfare Recipient Rates by Country of Origin), was publicly shared via Trump's Truth Social platform on January 4, 2026. It spans 114 countries and territories, illustrating the proportion of households from each region benefiting from available public welfare programs in the United States. Accompanying the publication of this data is a persistent emphasis on themes that encompass immigration, welfare dependency, and economic contributions—topics that continue to fuel intense debates within the framework of U.S. domestic politics. The data revealed in the chart places countries such as Bhutan, Yemen, and Somalia at the top of the list with notably high percentages of immigrant households utilizing public assistance. The top ten nations with the highest welfare dependency rates among their expatriate populations in the U.S. are as follows: Bhutan, with 81.4 percent at the forefront; Yemen, listed at 75.2 percent; Somalia, accounting for 71.9 percent; the Marshall Islands, marking 71.4 percent; and the Dominican Republic and Afghanistan, each registering 68.1 percent. Other countries rounding out this list include Congo at 66.0 percent, Guinea at 65.8 percent, Samoa (noted for immigrants arriving between 1940 and 1950) at 63.4 percent, and Cape Verde at 63.1 percent.

Conversely, the chart identifies the nations with immigrant communities presenting the lowest levels of welfare usage in the U.S. Bermuda leads this group with only 25.5 percent of its expatriate households receiving support. Following closely are Saudi Arabia with a rate of 25.7 percent, Israel/Palestine at 25.9 percent, and Argentina at 26.2 percent. Other countries with relatively minimal dependency include South America (unspecified) at 26.7 percent, South Korea at 27.2 percent, Zambia at 28.0 percent, Portugal at 28.2 percent, Kenya at 28.5 percent, and Kuwait at 29.3 percent. This report comes amidst an intensified focus on immigration policies by Trump's administration and Republican lawmakers more broadly, particularly concerning measures aimed at controlling entry into the country and scrutinizing the eligibility criteria for public benefits. As part of this broader agenda, Trump’s tenure expanded existing travel bans and tightened immigration restrictions based on various factors such as nationality and economic circumstances, which were frequently justified as measures to ensure national security and reduce perceived financial burdens on taxpayer-funded welfare systems. Photo credit: Instagram President Trump

The Role of Binding Commitments in Strengthening Ukraine's Security Guarantees

Security assurances for Ukraine are expected to feature binding commitments aimed at supporting the country in case of any future aggression from Russia, as indicated by a draft statement from the Coalition of the Willing, comprised of Kyiv’s allies. The draft document, reviewed by Reuters, outlines various measures intended to reestablish peace. These include provisions for military, intelligence, and logistical support, diplomatic efforts, and the imposition of further sanctions. However, the statement awaits approval during a summit of coalition leaders in Paris.

Attending the summit held at France’s Elysee Palace were U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, along with Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy also participated in the discussions, contributing to a broader initiative to coordinate a unified stance between Ukraine, Europe, and the United States ahead of negotiations with Russia. Photo credit: Instagram President Volodymyr

Venezuela will turn over 30 million to 50 million barrels of oil to US-Trump

President Donald Trump has announced that Venezuela will transfer between 30 million and 50 million barrels of oil to the United States following a military operation that ousted President Nicolás Maduro. According to Trump, the interim government in Venezuela will hand over what he referred to as "sanctioned oil," which will be sold at market value with the proceeds managed by the United States. He emphasized that the funds generated would be used to support both Venezuelan and American citizens. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has been tasked with implementing this plan immediately. The oil is set to be transported on storage ships and delivered directly to U.S. unloading docks. Trump expressed his satisfaction with the arrangement, stating that he is pleased the interim authorities in Venezuela have agreed to turn over millions of barrels of high-quality crude oil. He added that the sale revenue will be strictly overseen by him, in his capacity as President, to ensure it benefits the people of both nations.

He directed Energy Secretary Wright to take swift action to execute the plan and reiterated that the oil shipments would go directly to the United States for processing. This announcement follows the swearing-in of Delcy Rodríguez, previously Venezuela's vice president, as interim president after Maduro was apprehended and brought to the U.S. to face charges related to drug trafficking and weapons offenses. In an interview with NBC News on Monday, Trump highlighted the strategic importance of Venezuela resuming oil production for global markets, stating it helps maintain lower prices for energy in the United States.

Trump warns new Venezuelan leader as Maduro set to appear in court in New York

Donald Trump cautioned Venezuela's newly appointed leader, Delcy Rodríguez, against disregarding expectations, warning that she could face severe consequences potentially exceeding those faced by former president Nicolás Maduro if she fails to act appropriately. His remarks, made during an interview with The Atlantic, align with the ongoing legal proceedings against Maduro, who is scheduled to appear in a New York courtroom on Monday. The United States has accused Maduro, already facing charges of narcoterrorism and weapons trafficking, of leading a regime with ties to drug trafficking, allegations that he denies. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has pushed back against claims that recent airstrikes in Caracas signify an act of war. The strikes, which resulted in the capture of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have prompted criticisms from Democratic lawmakers branding the operation as such. Rubio emphasized that the US action targeted criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking, not Venezuela itself. Meanwhile, Trump reiterated his stance in the same Atlantic interview, stating the necessity of regime change in Venezuela and suggesting any alternative would be better than the current circumstances. He announced plans for the US to oversee the country until a smooth transition of power is achieved and pledged the involvement of US oil companies to revive Venezuela's infrastructure while generating economic progress.

Maduro’s loyalists continue to hold positions of power despite these developments. Cuban officials have reported casualties 32 Cuban combatants lost their lives during the operation and declared two days of mourning, underscoring Cuba's enduring solidarity with Venezuela's socialist leadership under Maduro. In televised appearances on Sunday morning, Rubio maintained that the United States is committed to combating drug networks rather than engaging in conflict with Venezuela. He hinted at ongoing American measures, including restrictions on Venezuelan oil exports, asserting that future decisions would hinge on the actions taken by Rodríguez’s government. Trump also issued a stern warning directed at Colombia during a press briefing aboard Air Force One, condemning President Gustavo Petro while implying possible military intervention against Colombia. Labeling Petro "a sick man," Trump accused Colombia’s leadership of aiding drug production and asserted that such activities would soon be curtailed. Since 2013, Maduro has governed Venezuela under the United Socialist Party banner and stands accused by both domestic opposition groups and foreign nations of exploiting violent measures to suppress dissent and unfairly securing victory in the country's 2024 presidential election. His recent capture alongside his wife unfolded as part of a daring special forces raid early Saturday morning, which included targeted strikes on military sites. Now facing charges tied to drug operations and illegal arms dealings,the couple is set for a court appearance in New York.

Arguing his innocence, Maduro has dismissed allegations connecting him to cartel leadership and accused the US of manipulating its so called “war on drugs” as a pretext for ousting him and gaining control over Venezuela’s oil reserves. Venezuelan Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino contested claims by US officials that no American personnel were harmed during the mission, reporting heavy losses among Maduro's security forces alongside military personnel and civilian casualties. This operation has also raised questions regarding congressional oversight. Rubio clarified that no formal approval was sought beforehand, citing concerns over potential information leaks that could jeopardize the mission. He characterized the effort as a "law enforcement operation" led by FBI agents rather than a full-scale invasion. Furthermore, when asked about US recognition of Rodríguez as Venezuela's legitimate president, Rubio deflected by stating that legitimacy was not the focal point of US actions, dismissing Rodriguez’s administration as non-recognized in Washington’s perspective. Photo Credit: Instagram President Trump

Gratitude For 2025: A Year of Blessings

I find myself reflecting on the countless blessings that have graced my life. As I sit down to pen this reflection, I am overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude— "thank you, Lord." First and foremost, I am thankful for the successful publishing of my book "Mélange: A Two-fold Memoir." This achievement has been the culmination of over two decades of hard work, dedication, and passion for the written word. The journey to becoming an author has been riddled with countless obstacles and setbacks, but through sheer determination and dedication I have emerged victorious. This book (Mélange: A Two-fold Memoir) holds a special place in my heart, as it is a proof to my belief in the power of storytelling.

To all those who have supported me on this journey, I am eternally grateful. Your support and belief in my abilities has been the driving force behind this accomplishment. In addition to the publication of my book, I am also thankful for the success of my blogspot. Over the years, my blog has served as a platform for me to share my thoughts, experiences, and insights with the world. It has been visited by individuals from over 50-100 countries… The ability to connect with individuals from different corners of the globe has been nothing short of a blessing. I am thankful for the opportunity to share my voice with the world and to make a meaningful impact through my writing. Furthermore, I am thankful for the recent turn of events in my professional life. After an absent of close to two years, I made the decision to reenter the workforce. However, my journey was not without its challenges, as I found myself facing unexpected setbacks and job termination. Despite the initial disappointment, I am grateful for the doors that closed, as they ultimately led me to the right opportunity.

I am now employed in a nurturing and supportive environment, surrounded by colleagues who uplift and inspire me. I am thankful for my new job and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. As I reflect on the blessings in my professional life, I am also filled with gratitude for the unconditional love and support of my friends and family. My godmother, who recently celebrated her 70th birthday, has been a pillar of strength and wisdom in my life. Her love and guidance have been a source of inspiration, and I am thankful for her presence in my life. Additionally, the love and support of my friends have been nothing short of a blessing. Their surprise Christmas gifts and presence in my life serve as a constant reminder of the power of love and friendship.

I am thankful for each and every individual who has touched my life in a meaningful ways. Last but certainly not least, I am thankful for the love and support of my partner and our daughter. As the year comes to a close, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the love and companionship that they bring into my life. Their presence serves as a constant source of joy and inspiration, and I am truly blessed to have them by my side.

In conclusion, as I reflect on the year 2025, I am reminded of the countless blessings that have graced my life. While the words "thank you," may seem inadequate in capturing the depth of my gratitude, they serve as a reminder of the immense blessings that I have received. I am eternally grateful for the journey that has led me to this moment, and I am filled with a sense of gratitude that is beyond mere words.

As I look towards the future, I am filled with hope and anticipation for the countless blessings that await us. For it is not enough to simply say "thank you“ but to embody the spirit of gratitude in every aspect of my life.

I did it without mentioning any name but JESUS. Thank you Lord! With a grateful heart. Thank you 2025, The Good Year! Happy New Year Everyone and God bless you all.

Commemorating 70 Years of Love: A Special Birthday Poem

The clock hand turns, a gentle sound, Another page, another year is found. Seventy years, a golden age, A life well-lived, honest and true. My teacher, who taught me godliness. My Vice Principal turned mommy.

A mother's heart, a grandma's grace, Written upon your loving face. A strength we draw, a steady light, Guiding us through day and night. My prayer partner, you taught me how to pray and give.

Stories you tells, like move of godly race, Of lessons learned, both new and old. How to live with open hand, To give and share throughout the land. My provider, you took me, a poor orphan and feed me with nourish food in your luxury home.

The house sings with laughter bright, Bathed in your warm and joyful light. A bucket full of love, Blessings received, we all believe. Your love is like a morning sun. Your words, a balm, a gentle guide, As my teacher, standing by my side. A role model true, inspiring me, To be the best that I can be.

An inspiration, clear and strong, To all who know you, where you live. A privilege to witness, day by day, The beauty you bring in every way. May your smiles bloom with every breath, Moments cherished, in God’s presence faithfulness. Each second rich, a precious gift, A shining light of Godliness and beauty.

Mommy, seventy years have flown, A love like yours, the world has known. You love so deep, it shines so bright, Because God's love fills you with light.

My vice principal, turned mother true, The kindness in your heart shines through. Today we celebrate, with joy and pride, The love you've given, deep inside. The same warm love, I feel it now, Seventy years, a blessed vow.

So raise a glass, let voices sing, For you, our joy, the songs we sing. Our favorite person, held so dear, We toast to you, with love and cheer. My Principal, who turned mommy. Each echo of my fellow students, Queen omo Vice-Principal is a reminder of your tender love towards me. The Queen Mother, that unknowingly raised a godly daughter.

Happy 70th Birthday to you Mommy! This poem is for my unofficial adopted mother, Mrs. Ogundolapo, written for her 70th birthday.