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Pope Francis approves blessings for same-sex couples

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Pope Francis has given approval for priests to offer blessings to same-sex couples, marking a significant milestone for the LGBTQ+ community within the Roman Catholic Church. The head of the Roman Catholic Church has stated that, in certain instances, priests should be able to bless same-sex and “irregular” couples, according to reports from the BBC.

It is clarified by the Vatican that these blessings should not be incorporated into regular Church ceremonies or associated with civil unions or weddings. The Vatican continues to assert that marriage is considered between a man and a woman. The move is outlined in a document approved by Pope Francis on Monday, emphasizing that priests should make decisions on a case-by-case basis, signifying that “God welcomes all.”

Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, the prefect of the Church, introduced the text and made it clear that the revised position does not officially recognize same-sex couples within the Catholic Church. While it signifies a change in tone, the stance remains unaltered. In 2021, Pope Francis had declared that priests are prohibited from blessing same-sex marriages, citing the belief that God cannot “bless sin.”

In the Catholic Church, a blessing involves a prayer or entreaty, typically recited by a minister, asking for God’s favor upon the individual or individuals receiving the blessing. Pope Francis had hinted in October that he might be open to the idea of same-sex couples being blessed by the Church. While the position of Church officials remained unclear, bishops in several countries had previously allowed priests to bless same-sex marriages.

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Driver dies as vehicle crashes into White House gate

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The U.S. Secret Service has said that a driver died after a vehicle traveling at high speed collided with a gate at the White House.

In a statement via X on Sunday, the federal law enforcement agency, said shortly before 10:30 p.m. (1430 GMT) on May 4th, the vehicle crashed into an outer perimeter gate on the White House complex.

“Security protocols were implemented as officers cleared the vehicle,” it said, adding that “there was no threat to the White House.”

The chief of Communications for the agency, Anthony Guglielmi in a post on X, said limited traffic closures remain in effect as the agency and the local police department investigate the incident.

CREDIT: DAILY POST

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Nigerian govt moves to reduce multiple security personnel at airports

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The Nigerian government has announced its intention to decrease the frequency of security checks at the country’s airports. This initiative comes as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) collaborates with the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to streamline security procedures at Nigerian airports.

Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director of FAAN, revealed this development over the weekend, citing the proliferation of multiple security checks as a significant concern in Nigeria.

Kuku explained that FAAN and the NSA have reached an agreement to address this issue. She expressed frustration over the excessive checks, stating that it was among her first priorities upon assuming office. She highlighted past efforts dating back to 2011 and 2012, during her tenure in the industry, where similar discussions were held with former ministers.

Kuku outlined the collaborative efforts involving various agencies such as Customs, NDLEA, Quarantine, Agriculture, and EFCC, noting the previous Executive Order 001 issued during the Buhari administration to streamline operations. She mentioned ongoing dialogues with the NSA over the past five weeks to develop strategies for enhancing facilitation.

The short-term intervention aims to reduce the number of agencies present at airports, particularly those conducting routine checks that disrupt passengers. This approach seeks to streamline security procedures while maintaining effectiveness.

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Only PhD students eligible to bring dependants to UK – Envoy

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The United Kingdom (UK) has clarified that only international students enrolling in Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs are permitted to bring their dependents into the country.

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja. He explained that the recent policy alteration in the educational system, preventing international students in higher education from bringing dependents to the UK, aimed to address the rising number of foreign students doing so.

Montgomery emphasized that the significant increase in dependents was creating unsustainable pressure on many universities, leading to the introduction of these changes. Prior to his tenure as High Commissioner to Nigeria, he had engaged with universities regarding this policy adjustment, which had been under consideration for some time.

The envoy highlighted concerns expressed by university Chancellors about the challenges posed by large student populations, including accommodation shortages, access to healthcare services through the National Health Service, and schooling for dependents.

He clarified that the restrictions did not apply universally, noting that individuals pursuing long-term research degrees such as a PhD or doctorate remained unaffected.

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Montgomery underscored the rationale behind the policy change, emphasizing its practicality given the UK’s extensive higher education sector, with many universities situated across various towns in the country.

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