U.S. and Iranian negotiators met in Rome on May 23, 2025, for another round of nuclear talks. This is the fifth time they are meeting to discuss how Iran manages its uranium enrichment and missile activities. The purpose of the talks is to make sure Iran does not build weapons that can cause trouble in the Middle East or start a race where other countries feel they must also build such weapons.

Iran says it is enriching uranium for peaceful reasons, like energy and medicine. The U.S. and other countries are worried that the same process can also help make nuclear bombs. This is why the U.S. wants Iran to stop making uranium at high levels and to reduce the number of machines, called centrifuges, that spin uranium to make it more powerful. These machines are useful for power but dangerous when used for weapons.

The two sides do not agree on many issues. Iran wants relief from economic sanctions. These are rules that stop Iran from doing business easily with other countries. Iran says these sanctions are hurting its people. The U.S. says it will only lift these sanctions if Iran agrees to limit its nuclear program and allow full checks by inspectors. The inspectors work with the International Atomic Energy Agency, which is responsible for checking nuclear activities in different countries.

Some progress has been made in the past rounds of talks, like agreeing on which nuclear sites can be inspected and how often. But there is still no agreement on how long Iran should stop high-level uranium enrichment or how long inspectors can stay in the country. The U.S. wants long-term limits. Iran wants a shorter timeline so it can return to full nuclear activities later if it chooses.

Rome was chosen as the meeting place because it is seen as a neutral location. The talks are not just between the U.S. and Iran. Some European countries are also involved as observers. These countries want to help both sides come to an agreement. They are worried that failure to agree may lead to more fighting or instability in the region. Countries like Israel and Saudi Arabia have said they will not accept a nuclear-armed Iran. This means there is pressure on all sides to find a peaceful answer.

The talks are happening behind closed doors, but some information is coming out from people close to the discussions. One issue that is slowing things down is Iran’s missile program. Iran is building missiles that can travel far distances. The U.S. wants to talk about this too, but Iran says the talks should only be about nuclear power. Iran sees its missiles as part of its defence.

Another issue is trust. In 2015, both sides signed a deal called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). That deal limited Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for lifting sanctions. But in 2018, the U.S. left the deal and reimposed sanctions. Iran then restarted some of its nuclear work. Because of this history, both sides now find it hard to trust each other. Iran wants written guarantees that any new agreement will not be canceled again. The U.S. government says it cannot make promises that future leaders will follow.

Some experts in international policy say the talks in Rome are very important. If the talks fail, Iran may continue to enrich uranium to higher levels. This could make other countries in the region want to do the same. If many countries in the Middle East have nuclear weapons or the ability to make them, it becomes harder to maintain peace. If the talks succeed, it can lead to more cooperation and less tension in the region.

People who follow these talks closely say that both sides are under pressure. Iran is dealing with a bad economy. It needs the sanctions to be lifted so it can trade more and improve living conditions. The U.S. government also wants to avoid another conflict in the Middle East. Many Americans do not want more wars. So both sides have something to gain if they can agree.

What people can try to understand from this situation is that global security depends on agreements like these. Countries do not always trust each other, but they can still talk and find middle ground. If they find ways to allow inspections and limit dangerous activities, it helps prevent future wars. That is why international talks, even when slow and difficult, are better than silence or threats.

The role of independent inspectors is also very important. They are the ones who check if both sides are following the rules. Their reports help the world know what is true and what is not. These inspectors use tools and scientific methods to test how much uranium is enriched, where it is kept, and what kind of machines are used.

People in other countries can learn from this by seeing how dialogue and negotiation can solve hard problems. Instead of going to war or making threats, sitting down and talking about the real issues can lead to peace. Even when both sides disagree, they can still listen and understand what the other side wants.

For those who want to follow these talks more closely, it is important to check updates from trusted sources like the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.S. State Department, and official Iranian news releases. These sources provide facts without trying to cause fear or confusion. Social media often spreads unverified information, so it is better to rely on official channels.

The outcome of the Rome talks will not only affect Iran and the U.S. It will also affect global oil prices, regional peace, and the way other countries approach nuclear development. Nigeria, as an oil-producing country, is also linked to these outcomes. If oil prices go up because of tension in the Middle East, it may boost the Nigeria’s economy on the short run. But If peace is achieved, it could bring stability in oil supply and trade.

No matter the result of the Rome talks, it is clear that both sides still believe there is value in discussion. They may not agree today or tomorrow, but the fact that they are still meeting means they see hope for a solution. Peace takes time, and many talks may be needed before results show. This round in Rome is part of that process.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that Nigeria’s inflation rate will rise to 37% in 2026. This prediction suggests that the cost of living may continue to increase, posing challenges for Nigerians in the coming years.

Inflation means that the prices of goods and services will go up. When prices rise, the value of money drops. That means ₦1,000 may not buy as much as it used to. In 2026, if the inflation rate reaches 37%, things like food, transportation, housing, and school fees may become more expensive for most families.

When inflation is high, salaries and wages do not increase at the same speed as prices. For example, a civil servant who earns ₦70,000 monthly may find it harder to cover basic needs like feeding and transport if food and fuel prices double or triple. This may force people to reduce what they buy or look for additional sources of income.

Some people try to protect themselves by saving in foreign currency, like US dollars, instead of naira. Others buy things that can keep value over time, like land, gold, or shares. But not everyone can afford these options. Many Nigerians rely only on naira for their daily lives. When the currency loses value quickly, it affects people in rural areas more, especially those who do not have access to financial services or support.

One cause of rising inflation in Nigeria is the high cost of importing goods. Nigeria depends on foreign countries for many things, including food, fuel, medicine, and machines. When the exchange rate of the naira to the dollar becomes weaker, the prices of these imported goods increase. For example, if the dollar goes from ₦800 to ₦1,500, it means a bag of rice or carton of milk that was ₦30,000 may go up to ₦60,000 or more.

Another factor is removal of subsidies. When the government removes fuel subsidies, it leads to higher transport costs. Transport affects all parts of the economy, from farming to trading. A farmer in Benue or Kaduna may spend more to move tomatoes to Lagos. Traders will pass that cost to consumers. So, even local products become more expensive when fuel prices rise.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) uses monetary policy to try and control inflation. One method is increasing interest rates so that people and businesses borrow less money. When there is less money moving around, demand goes down, and this can slow down price increases. However, high interest rates can also affect small businesses, especially those that need loans to grow. So, while it may reduce inflation a little, it may also slow down economic activities for regular people.

Many Nigerians are now focusing more on budgeting. Budgeting helps people plan how to spend their money based on what they earn. A basic household budget should include food, housing, school fees, electricity, and transport. It is also important to track spending and cut down on non-essential items, like eating out or buying luxury items. Using local alternatives instead of imported products is another way to save money.

In some places, people are forming savings groups. These are small cooperative groups where members contribute money monthly and take turns collecting the total amount. This helps them to handle bigger expenses like rent or school fees. It also gives members a way to save without going through banks, which may charge fees or offer low interest.

Agriculture may help some people cope with inflation. Planting small farms around the home can reduce food bills. Items like tomatoes, okra, maize, and pepper can be grown in bags or containers. This will not solve all problems, but it can help reduce the amount of money spent on food.

Some Nigerians are also learning digital skills to earn money online. Skills like graphic design, writing, video editing, and online teaching can help people get jobs that pay in foreign currency. This means they can earn money that is not affected by naira inflation. These jobs may be hard to find at first, but many free courses and training are available online or through community tech hubs.

For those with physical businesses, adjusting prices gradually and offering smaller packages can help maintain customers. For example, instead of selling a full loaf of bread, some bakers now sell half-loaves or smaller slices. This way, customers can still afford the product, and the business does not lose them completely.

People should also be careful about fraud during inflation. When prices are high, scammers take advantage of people looking for cheaper deals. Some sell fake products or promise returns on investment that are not real. Before joining any money scheme or buying expensive goods online, it is important to check reviews, ask trusted people, and use secure payment methods.

Schools may also feel the impact. Some private schools may increase fees to cope with the rising cost of textbooks, fuel for generators, and salaries for staff. Parents may need to talk to schools about payment plans or consider alternative education options if fees become too high.

Health care costs may rise too. Medicines and hospital equipment are mostly imported. Clinics may start charging more for treatment. People are advised to join community health insurance where available. This can reduce the cost of visiting hospitals, especially for children and pregnant women.

Landlords may increase rent, especially in urban areas like Abuja and Lagos. Tenants can try negotiating longer-term agreements to lock in lower rent. In some cases, people may move to smaller houses or share rent with friends or family to reduce cost.

The IMF prediction is not a guarantee, but it is based on current trends. If the government makes strong policies to increase local production, stabilize the currency, and improve infrastructure, inflation may not rise as high as 37%. But if problems like insecurity, oil theft, and corruption continue, then things may get worse before they get better.

Young people who are still in school should also start learning how money works. Understanding how to save, avoid debt, and look for opportunities can help prepare them for the future. Parents can teach children small money habits like keeping track of what they spend or helping with home gardens.

Local businesses and communities can also work together. Buying from local traders instead of imported brands helps keep money in the area. Supporting made-in-Nigeria goods also reduces pressure on foreign exchange.

People with steady jobs can try setting aside some money monthly, even if small. Saving during hard times is difficult, but it helps prepare for emergencies. It also reduces stress if inflation becomes worse than expected.

Nigerians who have family members abroad sometimes receive money through remittances. This can provide support during inflation. It is important to use trusted money transfer services and avoid sending or receiving money through unknown contacts.

Inflation also affects government projects. When prices go up, it becomes more expensive to build roads, schools, and hospitals. This can slow down development in rural and urban areas. Citizens can demand transparency and ask leaders to explain how public funds are spent.

Electricity bills may also rise as power providers adjust prices based on inflation. Some households are turning to solar energy or prepaid meters to manage usage better. Using energy-saving bulbs and turning off appliances when not in use can help reduce bills.

Transportation services like buses, okadas, and ride-hailing apps may increase fares. Passengers can try to group transport with friends, walk short distances, or use public buses instead of private taxis when possible.

People planning events like weddings or funerals should also review their budgets. Using local halls, home cooking, and reducing guest lists can help cut down expenses without removing the meaning of the event.

Although 2026 is still some months away, many people are already seeing signs of high inflation. Understanding what is happening and making small adjustments early can help families survive. Everyone may not be able to stop inflation, but they can prepare for it.

If the IMF prediction comes true, Nigerians may need to depend more on their communities, skills, and creativity to survive. Governments, companies, and individuals all have a role to play in reducing the damage caused by inflation. Working together and sharing information can help reduce the pain that inflation brings.

Hamas is a group in Gaza. Gaza is a small place surrounded by Israel, Egypt, and the sea. Israel and Egypt control the borders. They do not allow weapons to enter Gaza. But Hamas still gets weapons. Many people want to understand how that happens.

One way is through tunnels. There are many underground tunnels between Gaza and Egypt. People dig these tunnels secretly. They use the tunnels to bring in goods, fuel, and sometimes weapons. These tunnels are hidden under houses and farms. Egypt tries to destroy them, but new tunnels are often built again.

Another method is smuggling through the sea. Gaza has a small coastline. Boats and divers use the water to bring in small items. These include parts of weapons. The sea is not open, but some people still find ways to move things quietly. Israeli forces monitor the sea, but not everything is stopped.

Some weapons are homemade. Hamas has people who build weapons inside Gaza. These are not like factory-made weapons, but they work. They collect parts from metal scraps, pipes, and chemicals. Some tools and machines used for farming or building can be changed into weapon-making equipment. They also learn from videos and messages shared on secure internet channels.

Sometimes weapons come in as parts. A full weapon is hard to smuggle. But small parts like springs, circuits, or metal tubes are easier to hide. These parts can be used to build rockets, guns, or bombs. These parts are sometimes mixed with other goods like electronics or machinery. It is hard for border officers to check every item.

Another source is leftover weapons from old wars. Gaza has seen many battles. Some weapons were left behind by soldiers or found in destroyed areas. People fix and reuse them. Old bullets and explosives are collected and changed into new weapons.

There are also reports of weapons coming through fake aid. During a war or conflict, aid trucks come into Gaza with food and medicine. Some of these trucks have been accused of hiding weapon parts. The borders try to inspect every truck, but sometimes things pass through.

Some people in other countries support Hamas. These supporters send money and materials. The money is used to buy parts and tools. It is not easy to move money into Gaza, but people use secret ways. They use cryptocurrency or send cash with travelers. Some money passes through charity groups that are not well-checked.

Weapons also come from groups outside Gaza. Some countries are accused of sending support to Hamas. They send experts, training, and information. They use diplomatic channels or hidden supply routes. These routes are not open to the public, and they are very hard to track.

The internet helps with learning. Hamas uses the internet to learn how to make weapons. They study military documents, designs, and tutorials. They do not need a full army to build weapons. They use small teams and hidden places. Some of these places are underground or inside civilian buildings.

Israel and Egypt try to stop the weapons. They check borders, scan goods, and destroy tunnels. But the supply does not fully stop. New methods are always coming up. When one path is blocked, another one opens.

Many civilians in Gaza do not support weapons. But Hamas controls many areas. It is hard for people to stop them. Some people are forced to help. Others are paid. This makes it difficult to trace who is responsible.

Satellite images and drones are used to find tunnels and storage places. But some tunnels are too deep or hidden under crowded places. Digging into the ground is not always possible because it affects buildings and homes.

There are also weapon prototypes made from civilian items. Pressure cookers, batteries, fertilizer, and cooking gas have been turned into weapons. These are called improvised weapons. They are not strong like factory weapons but can cause damage.

During ceasefires, more goods enter Gaza. That time is used to stockpile tools. Even when weapons are not coming in directly, items that help with production do. These include wires, nails, batteries, solar panels, and welding tools. These items look normal but can be used for weapons.

Sometimes, weapons come through bribes. Border officers may be offered money to allow some goods in. Not all officers agree, but even one person can make a difference. Corruption makes it easy for illegal items to pass.

Some smugglers act like traders. They bring in toys, clothes, or electronics, but hide weapon parts inside. They use secret compartments in boxes or vehicles. These tricks are updated often. Scanners at the border can catch some, but not all.

In Gaza, materials are recycled. Metal from broken cars, pipes from old buildings, and wires from broken electronics are collected. Workshops turn these into parts for rockets or mortars. It is not about advanced machines. It is about using what is available.

Hamas also has engineers. Some were trained in other countries before the blockade. They returned and now lead the building of weapons. Others are self-taught. They study physics, chemistry, and design through books and online resources.

People in Gaza sometimes take risks. A person may carry one small item, not knowing it is part of a weapon. People are told it is for farming or repairs. Only after many small parts come together does a full weapon get made.

Some aid packages are stolen. Items meant for hospitals or schools are taken and changed into weapon tools. For example, metal frames, oxygen tanks, and medical chemicals can be repurposed. It is hard to trace once the original packaging is removed.

Israel uses airstrikes to destroy weapon-making places. But Hamas rebuilds in new locations. They work in shifts and move tools at night. Some workshops change location every week. This makes it hard to track their activity.

Hamas sometimes uses children or women as cover. Items may be hidden in clothes or schoolbags. This method is used to avoid checks. It is risky and harmful, but it still happens.

Fake companies are another way. A business may be registered to import construction goods, but it hides weapon items in its shipment. Some of these businesses do not exist on the ground. They are just names on paper.

In times of low fighting, Hamas focuses on building up its supply. They test small rockets in open fields. These tests are not public. But videos are sometimes shared on private networks.

People who oppose Hamas are silenced. This keeps the network working. Fear stops many from speaking. That makes it harder to find and stop the supply.

Gaza is under heavy control, but some things still pass through. Weapons come in parts, not full. They are built secretly. The methods change often. Israel and Egypt stop many of them, but not all. Hamas uses many small ways to get weapons. The process is slow but steady.

Even when the borders are closed, not every entry is perfect. People find ways. Some use old smuggling routes. Others make new ones. They take advantage of moments when attention is low.

The truth is that no blockade is perfect. There is always a weak point. Hamas looks for that weak point and uses it. That is how weapons continue to enter Gaza.