Repentant terrorists told us northern governor among Boko Haram leaders – Mailafia, NECO Releases 2020 timetable and more

They're nicknamed the gorillas – or bodyguards – of the French Republic. The police officers of the force's Protection Unit are in charge of the security of French and foreign dignitaries but also candidates for France's presidential elections, as well as other figures who require special protection. We take a rare look at the strenuous selection process policemen and women have to go through before taking on the job. Our France 2 colleagues report, with FRANCE 24's James Vasina.

Many Facebook groups based in Mali and Nigeria began sharing a video of a helicopter on December 9, claiming it showed an aircraft delivering weapons to terrorists. In Mali, the posts often accused the French government of operating the helicopter, while posts coming from Nigeria laid the blame on the Nigerian government. In reality, the video is from neither one of these countries – it was filmed in the Central African Republic during a routine supply drop.

Find these stories and much more when you grab a copy of The Guardian on Saturday.⁣⁣

Global health body said the new variant has a "substantial growth advantage over delta". More data is still needed to determine the severity of the strain.

US President Joe Biden has unveiled a new plan to tackle his country's COVID-19 emergency. Announcing the measures on his first full day in power, he said drastic action is needed.

With Europe still grappling with Covid-19, Talking Europe speaks to Christa Schweng, President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). The EESC is the body that brings together European employers, trade unionists and representatives of social, occupational, economic and cultural organisations.

It's hoped that protein-based vaccines will help push the global COVID-19 vaccination program in poorer countries. Those who oppose vaccination are interested in them, too.

With Europe still grappling with Covid-19, Talking Europe speaks to Christa Schweng, President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC).

Find these stories and much more when you grab a copy of The Guardian on Thursday.⁣

The head of the World Health Organization says rich countries are merely prolonging the pandemic by fueling vaccine inequality. "No country can boost its way out of the pandemic," he says.

Find these stories and much more when you grab a copy of The Guardian on Friday.⁣⁣

Kim Potter fired her gun instead of her taser during the attempted arrest of Daunte Wright at a traffic stop. The death occurred during the Derek Chauvin trial.