'I am ready for peace talks': Asad tells Pope Francis

Bashar al-Assad has said his government is ready to participate in next month's peace talks. He stated this in a message to Pope Francis but however pointed out that outside countries must stop supporting what he called terrorist groups in the country's civil war, Syria's state-run news agency said Saturday.

50 people feared dead after boat mishap in Nigeria

About 50 persons were feared dead in a Boxing Day boat tragedy at River Buruku when the wooden boat conveying them across the river capsized at the middle of the river.
According to an eyewitness, the victims of the mishap were young fun seekers; “They met their untimely death while returning from a picnic on the other side of the river.

Three die in Egypt as Police and Muslim Brotherhood supporters clash

Following a clash between police and Muslim Brotherhood supporters in Egypt, at least three people have been confirmed dead. The deaths were reported in Cairo, southern Minya province and the Nile Delta.

Meanwhile, the interior ministry has confirmed the arrest of 265 Muslim Brotherhood supporters.

South Sudan Government declares readiness for truce

The government of South Sudan says it has agreed to an immediate end to fighting, a declaration which East African leaders consider to be a welcome development. Fighting continued on Friday in the oil town of Malakal, Upper Nile State

President Jonathan replies Obasanjo

Letter below:

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo's Letter to Incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan: BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE

Obasanjo’s 18-page letter entitled “Before it is too late”, dated December 2, 2013.

Letter below: