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Trump Hails ‘Turnaround for the Ages’ in Record 110-Minute Address
Trump Hails ‘Turnaround for the Ages’ in Record 110-Minute Address
United States President, Donald Trump, on Tuesday night delivered the longest State of the Union address in American history, declaring that his first year back in the White House had produced what he described as a sweeping economic revival.
The address, which lasted nearly one hour and 50 minutes before a joint session of Congress at the US Capitol, saw the president repeatedly defend his economic policies, warn Iran over its nuclear ambitions and criticise a recent ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States on tariffs.
Trump said his administration had overseen a “turnaround for the ages,” insisting that the US economy was regaining strength through tax reforms, deregulation and trade measures aimed at protecting American industries.
“We have delivered results that many said were impossible,” he told lawmakers, as Republican members rose in applause.
The president maintained that his policies had boosted job creation, encouraged domestic manufacturing and restored investor confidence.
However, he did not provide detailed economic statistics during the speech.
On trade, Trump faulted the Supreme Court’s recent decision striking down aspects of his sweeping global tariffs.
Moments before launching into his criticism, the president was seen briefly shaking hands with several justices seated in the chamber.
He described the ruling as “very unfortunate,” arguing that the tariffs were necessary to shield American workers from what he called unfair foreign competition.
Analysts say the court’s decision represents a significant legal hurdle for one of the administration’s signature economic strategies, potentially limiting the scope of executive authority in imposing trade restrictions.
Turning to foreign policy, Trump addressed crises with Iran, reiterating his administration’s opposition to any move by Tehran to pursue nuclear weapons.
“My preference is to solve this problem through diplomacy,” the president said, while warning that the United States would not permit Iran to develop a nuclear weapons programme.
The remarks come amid renewed international concern over nuclear proliferation in the Middle East.
The speech drew sharp partisan reactions. While Republicans applauded frequently, Democrats remained largely subdued.
In the Democratic response, Virginia Governor, Abigail Spanberger, said the president “offered no real solutions to our nation’s pressing challenges.”
Spanberger criticised the administration for failing to present concrete plans to address healthcare costs, economic inequality and other domestic concerns.
Late Afrobeat Pioneer, Fela Earns Historic Global Recognition.
Late Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has been inducted into the prestigious Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, becoming the first Nigerian artist to receive the honor.
Naija News reports that the announcement marks another major global recognition for the iconic musician, decades after his passing.
Fela was inducted under the “Early Influence” category, alongside renowned global music figures such as Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons.
The list of inductees was unveiled in the United States during a live broadcast of the popular television show, American Idol.
Also recognized is Nigerian-born British singer, Sade Adu, who will be inducted in the “Performer” category.
She joins a lineup of global stars including Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan.
Despite stiff competition, several high-profile nominees failed to make the final list. These include Shakira, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, New Edition, and Pink.
Organizers disclosed that over 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals participated in the voting process.
The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
Fela’s latest recognition comes just months after he made history in January as the first African musician to receive the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
The honor, coming nearly 30 years after his death, further cements his legacy as a global music icon and pioneer of Afrobeat.
It also follows the introduction of the Best African Performance category at the Grammy Awards two years ago, reflecting growing global recognition for African music.
Rihanna to Receive Edison Achievement Award for “Reshaping the World Through Innovation”
The Edison Achievement Awards ceremony will take place in Fort Myers, Florida on April 16. However, Rihanna won’t be making the trek as she is confirmed to accept virtually.
Rihanna is being singled out for her innovative skills.
The superstar singer and entrepreneur has been selected to receive an Edison Achievement Award, an honor doled out to recognize “individuals who are reshaping industries and the world through innovation.” The award is presented each year to groundbreakers “whose extraordinary contributions transcend expectations advancing human-centered design, accelerating meaningful change and redefining what’s possible within their fields.” Winners are plucked by a steering committee that zeroes in on recipients based on biography, impact and visionary practices.
The award ceremony will take place in Fort Myers, Florida on April 16. However, Rihanna won’t be making the trek as she is confirmed to accept virtually. Also set to be honored that night will be National Basketball Association commissioner Adam Silver.
“Rihanna has consistently pushed boundaries across music, beauty, fashion and philanthropy while setting new standards for creativity, inclusivity, and global influence,” said Frank Bonafilia, Edison Awards executive director. “She embodies the spirit of Thomas Edison, by using inclusive innovation as a catalyst for progress. We are honored to recognize her with this year’s award.”
In announcing the news, the Edison team cited Rihanna’s achievements in transforming the beauty industry with the launch of Fenty Beauty, hailed for its inclusive standards with the range of products, and building on that foundation and vision with an expansion that includes Fenty Skin, Fenty Hair and Savage X Fenty fashion line. In addition to her accomplishments in music, she also founded the Clara Lionel Foundation to give back.
Australia Gets Its First Female Army Chief, Susan Coyle.
Susan Coyle, currently chief of joint capabilities, is the first woman to be appointed head of any of the services in the Australian military.
Australia will get its first female chief of army, with the appointment of Lieutenant General Susan Coyle to the post. Coyle, currently chief of joint capabilities, is the first woman to be appointed head of any of the services in the Australian military.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the appointments of new military chiefs on Monday, ahead of the government unveiling its 2026 statement on defense strategy and investment later this week. The appointments commence in July.
The current Navy Chief, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, will become the new Chief of the Defence Force, replacing Admiral David Johnston.
Hammond has commanded submarines and the Australian fleet. He has been the Chief of the Navy since 2022. As the second naval officer in a row to serve as chief of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), his expertise is particularly relevant as Australia deals with the AUKUS agreement.
Coyle, who enlisted in the Army Reserves in 1987, has worked at the tactical, operational and strategic levels and in command roles. These include the commander of the Task Group Afghanistan and the commanding officer of the 17th Signal Regiment. She replaces Lieutenant General Stuart as Army Chief.
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