The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Sunday Igboho lauds Tinubu, southwest governors, Yoruba Obas over freedom

    Sunday Igboho lauds Tinubu, southwest governors, Yoruba Obas over freedom

    • …set to collaborate with government in tackling insecurity

    Yoruba nation activist Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has praised President Bola Tinubu, South West governors, and traditional rulers in Yorubaland following his recent return to Nigeria after nearly five years in exile.

    Igboho had been in exile after the administration of late President Muhammadu Buhari declared him wanted over allegations of stockpiling arms and ammunition. He returned to the country last Monday, receiving widespread attention.

    On July 1, 2021, a joint operation by the Department of State Security (DSS) and military personnel attempted to arrest him at his Ibadan residence in Oyo State. The raid resulted in the deaths of two of his aides and the arrest of 13 others.

    In a statement, Igboho expressed particular gratitude to President Tinubu for granting him a pardon, describing it as a key step in his return to Nigeria.

    He said, “I deeply appreciate the mercy and maganimity of our revered President Bola Tinubu, who graciously granted me freedom to return to Nigeria after intervention by stakeholders in the traditional institution.”

    Read Also: UPDATED: Sunday Igboho arrives Nigeria, appreciates Tinubu, Oba Ladoja, others

    “While I would not take this opportunity and freedom for granted, I am ready to collaborate with the Federal Government in tackling the ravaging insecurity and support measures aimed at enhancing peace and socioeconomic growth in the country, especially in the South West.

    “It is also very germane to appreciate all the South West State governors, namely Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), and Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), for their critical support and enviable roles.

    “While commending the South West governors, I want to single out Governor Seyi Makinde for his giant strides in the steady development of Oyo State. The visible impacts of his administration in virtually all the sectors and enviable infrastructural growth of this state have greatly turned around the aesthetics of Oyo to the envy of all.

    “Similarly, I want to congratulate him on the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Oyo State, which showcased noble roles played by statesmen and past leaders, whose significant contributions laid a stronger pedestal for the healthy developments being witnessed today.

    “But my gratitude over the current freedom which I savour would be ineffectual without recognising the timely intervention of all Yoruba monarchs.

    “Special recognition goes to the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Oba Francis Olushola Alao, and other monarchs too numerous to mention.

    “Besides, the love and support from all Yoruba indigenes are too massive, and I will continue to cherish everyone while also recommitting myself to the peace, unity, growth, and protection of the collective interest of our ethnic nationality.”

  • More feathers for Anosike as NiMet emerges among top 10 on ICPC’s Ethics and Integrity compliance scorecard

    More feathers for Anosike as NiMet emerges among top 10 on ICPC’s Ethics and Integrity compliance scorecard

    • By Bonaventure Phillips Melah

    A report making the rounds in the media has it that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has rated the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) as one of the best performing institutions in the country, with a high mark of 82.65% on its Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard (EICS) for 2025.

    NiMet is the first and only agency in the entire aviation sector to receive this category of ranking and recognition as contained in a letter from ICPC, dated 29 December 2025 and ranked NiMet among the top 10 out of a total of 344 MDAs that were assessed nationwide, adding that the agency also made “Substantial Compliance,” emerging 11th out of 356 MDAs on the ACTU Effectiveness Index (AEI) where it garnered 82.50%.

    The letter said by its performance, NiMet earned a “Very Effective” status for its Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU).

    Available records show that the ICPC EICS evaluation was based on key pillars of Management Culture and Structure; Financial Management Systems; Administrative Systems; and the effectiveness of Anti-Corruption and Transparency Units, adding that it affirms the strength of the Agency’s compliance framework, governance mechanisms and the effectiveness of its operational systems.

    According to the letter, which was signed by the Chairman of the ICPC, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, NiMet was commended for the structures and processes it has put in place to promote efficiency and integrity, while its Management was encouraged to sustain the standard achieved to ensure consistency in ratings and continued improvement in service delivery.

    Reacting to latest rating, the Director General/CEO of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike, welcomed the development, saying however that it is rather a challenge for him and the management of the agency to do more. He said that NiMet remains committed to upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and professionalism in the discharge of its mandate, and will continue to strengthen its institutional processes in line with national integrity standards.

    In 1968, a prolific Ghanaian author and poet, Ayi Kwei Armah, wrote that masterpiece titled- ‘The Beautiful Ones are Not Yet Born.’ While many, out of generations of literature students saw the work of fiction as a love story, the author was actually lamenting the absence of committed, disciplined and selfless leaders in his country and by extension, Africa. Back home, Nigeria has had more than a fair share of ugly ones- kindred of unserious, greedy and corrupt leaders without idea of how to positively impact the lives of the people they were meant to serve.

    But as they say in Nigeria, much water has passed under the bridge and change is here. Today, there are many well-educated, well-informed professionals serving as Chief Executive Officers, both in the private and public sectors, that are deploy their intellectual capacities, to transform organisations entrusted in their care. Prof. Charles Anosike is one of the beautiful ones.

    When Anosike assumed office as the CEO of NiMet in December 2023, he was confronted with several institutional challenges including lack of leadership drive, slow and ineffective migration to modern technologies and a demoralized workforce that were denied series of entitlements and claims.

    Within the past two years, Prof. Anosike has combined several ‘Cs’ of leadership- including competence, Courage, Consistency, Commitment, Character, Communication and Clarity to chart a new route of goal-setting and achievements for the organization. He has also Leveraged digital innovations and forged strategic partnerships with local and international institutions, to close critical gaps and achieved remarkable milestones for the organization.

    His ability to draw strength from a twin-chain that include inspiration from President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda that hammers on providing best quality service to the people and submission to the strict supervisory approach of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barrister Festus Keyamo, SAN, who does not brood indolence and would not suffer non-compliance to highest operational standards, has contributed in no small measures to the massive achievements recorded by NiMet’s management under his leadership.

    Read Also: Anosike’s Transformative Leadership and NiMet’s current global applause

    As it stands today, NiMet has witnessed series of transformations that have ensured Nigeria’s weather services are more accurate, reliable, and impactful than ever before. The agency actively works with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and other partners to improve communication of climate information to the public as well as playing crucial role in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing essential data to combat desertification and restore land affected by drought, thereby establishing itself as an authority with clear understanding that its responsibilities go beyond daily weather reports, but include long-term climate and environmental protection.

    Identifying synergy with other organisations as essential to achieving set goals, Anosike’s management has signed partnerships agreement with sister government agencies as well as universities and research institutions within Nigeria and across the world. He sees these collaborations as vital in building a climate-resilient society and mitigating the impact of extreme weather.

    Among his most significant milestones is digitalization of operations as NiMet has replaced its traditional manual flight folder system with an electronic flight folder also known as e-flight folder.

    This cutting-edge tool provides virtual access to a comprehensive suite of flight briefing applications, including weather reports, to pilots and airlines, thereby facilitating informed decision-making and enhancing safety protocols.

    As at today, NiMet has a world-class weather presentation infrastructure which Anosike’s management upgraded to 4K resolution. The transformative initiative was achieved in partnership with global technology leader Chyron. The cutting-edge facility plays pivotal role in NiMet’s current weather presentation capabilities and therefore a critical milestone in the agency’s commitment to delivering world-class meteorological services.

    The agency has also completed full audit of dilapidated infrastructures and ill-conceived projects as well as unveiled the Aeronautical Meteorology Bulletin, a groundbreaking publication designed to promote a deeper understanding of meteorology in the aviation industry. The bulletin aims to empower airlines, pilots, air traffic controllers, and ground services to anticipate and manage weather-related challenges more effectively.

    Another area of pride for NiMet is the agency’s flagship product, the Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), a vital early warning tool for farmers, livestock practitioners, and other sectors of the economy as well as the implementation of a co-production process, engaging relevant stakeholders in weather-sensitive sectors to craft informed, user-tailored weather forecasts. These forecasts are translated into Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and Pidgin to enhance uptake and facilitate better planning and climate-smart decision-making.

    The agency also successfully launched a centralised Secure Aviation Data Information Service (SADIS) Application Programming Interface (API) platform aimed at boosting Aviation safety efficiency in Nigeria. It was part of the overall modernisation of the country’s aviation weather services with Nigeria becoming a trailblazer in Africa.

    Not long ago, NiMet took a major step toward sustainable innovation with the deployment of electric vehicles (EVs) for airside operations across Nigeria’s five international airports — Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Enugu. The development marked the first deployment of EVs in the nation’s aviation sector, positioning NiMet at the forefront of environmental transformation and operational efficiency which aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on clean energy and climate resilience. The vehicles are capable of covering up to 200 kilometers on a single charge and are supported by dedicated charging stations at each airport.

    Furthermore, NiMet and other stakeholders in the aviation industry concluded nationwide Quality Management System (QMS) Engagement across major airports as part of efforts to strengthen service delivery, improve aviation safety, and sustain its ISO 9001:2015 certification for aeronautical meteorological services.

    Also, NiMet, Sahel, IRI and Gates Foundation launched ‘ENACTS Initiative’ to strengthen access to climate data. The event held in Abuja under the Building Agricultural Systems Resilience in Nigeria Project financed by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and featured a Project Review Workshop with stakeholders across agriculture, health, water resources, blue economy and disaster management, among others.

    NiMet was also part of an Investor Roundtable hosted by the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) to commemorate the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) Preparers Readiness Programme and strengthen partnerships and networking for agencies with similar objectives.

    NiMet also entered into partnership with the Kingdom of Morocco on AI-Based Weather Forecast, Early Warning Systems at an event where Anosike and his Moroccan counterpart, Mohammed Dhkissi, pledged to deepen bilateral cooperation between the two institutions, particularly in the area of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven weather forecasting and early warning systems for enhanced climate resilience.

    To further bolster its ICT capacity aimed at greater efficiency, NiMet entered a strategic alliance with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) with Anosike saying the goal was to foster collaboration and explore strategic areas between the two key government institutions which aims to enhance the credibility of NiMet’s services.

    Simultaneously also, was the signing of MoU between NiMet Landmark University aimed at advancing meteorological research and deepening climate science education in Nigeria which seeks to enhance the collection and analysis of climate data and support initiatives that promote environmental resilience and sustainable national development.

    The standing ovations being given to NiMet at several national and international gatherings as well as awards and accolades, are part of the various testimonies of Anosike’s bold footprints at the agency.

    Within the past twenty-four months, Anosike has received several prestigious awards including “Best Federal MDA in Open Data Excellence” by Nigeria GovTech Public Service Awards 2025 which also decorated him with the ‘Distinguished GovTech Trailblazer’s Award;’ ‘Aviation Sector CEO of the Year 2024;’ the 2025 ‘African Public Sector Leadership Impact Award’ for his transformational leadership, organized by the African Leadership Magazine at an event held in Casablanca, Morocco, where Anosike was honoured alongside other notable dignitaries including serving presidents of two African countries and the MD/CEO of First Bank of Nigeria Plc. The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) also honoured Anosike with ‘Outstanding Mentorship Award.’

    The emergence of NiMet among the top 10 out of 344 MDAs on ICPC’s Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard (EICS) is a pleasant icing on the agency’s cake and a shouting testimony that a great future awaits NiMet and its staff while at the same time reinforces the hope of patriotic Nigerians that the the and is truly Green. 

  • Antoine Semenyo Already At Home At Manchester City

    Antoine Semenyo Already At Home At Manchester City

    Antoine Semenyo has adapted quickly to life at Manchester City after completing a high-profile January transfer. Early performances suggest the sizeable fee paid to Bournemouth may already be justified.

    The Ghana international has made an immediate impact in domestic cup competition during an intense period. Consequently, excitement is growing around his role in City’s ongoing soccer ambitions this season.

    Immediate Impact After Manchester City Move

    Antoine Semenyo arrived at Manchester City (1.99) with pressure attached to a reported £62.5m price tag. However, the forward has shown no signs of nerves since stepping into Pep Guardiola’s system. His debut came in the FA Cup third round against Exeter City. That match ended in a ruthless 10-1 victory for City. Semenyo scored and assisted, instantly endearing himself to supporters. Moreover, his movement and physical presence stood out throughout the contest.

    While the opposition came from League One, expectations were still significant. Importantly, Semenyo treated the occasion with professionalism and hunger. His willingness to press high up the pitch impressed the coaching staff. Additionally, his understanding with City’s midfield developed quickly. Such early chemistry often takes months to establish. Therefore, his performance hinted at strong long-term potential within this elite squad.

    Carabao Cup Statement at St James’ Park

    Attention then shifted to a far sterner test away at Newcastle United. St James’ Park provided a hostile atmosphere for City’s Carabao Cup semi-final clash. Semenyo responded in emphatic fashion by scoring the opening goal. That strike helped City seize early control of the tie. Furthermore, his composure inside the penalty area reflected confidence beyond his brief time at the club.

    Later in the match, Semenyo found the net again after a sharp attacking move. Unfortunately for him, the goal was ruled out following a lengthy VAR review. Nevertheless, his constant threat unsettled Newcastle’s defence throughout the evening. City eventually secured a 2-0 win, putting one foot into the final. Consequently, Semenyo’s contribution was widely praised across soccer media circles.

    Tactical Value and Physical Profile

    Manchester City have long relied on fluid movement and technical excellence. Semenyo adds a slightly different dimension to that attacking blueprint. His physicality allows City to stretch defences in new ways. Additionally, his direct running offers an alternative option against compact back lines. Guardiola has often valued versatility in wide and central attacking roles. Semenyo appears capable of fulfilling multiple responsibilities.

    The 26-year-old has openly discussed his strengths since joining the club. He described himself as “powerful, quick and strong”, while also calling himself “clinical”. That final attribute is particularly important in tight matches. In title races, small margins often decide outcomes. Therefore, an attacker who converts limited chances can prove decisive. City’s rivals will certainly take note of his early finishing efficiency.

    Settling Quickly Into City Culture

    Beyond his performances, Semenyo has spoken positively about his new environment. His comments reflect a player comfortable with expectations and standards. Importantly, he highlighted the supportive nature of the dressing room. That cohesion has defined City’s success in recent seasons. New signings often speak about the difficulty of adapting. Semenyo, however, appears to be thriving within weeks.

    “I was in the right area to tap it in and we were victorious so I am happy,” Semenyo said after the game, as per BBC Sport. “The whole environment here is perfect. Everyone is confident and wanting to achieve the best. I have come into that and they helped with my confidence and made me feel welcome. It has been a lot but I have enjoyed it so far. I am picking things up very quickly and enjoying it. I am playing with a smile on my face and enjoying every moment.”

    Such words suggest a player mentally prepared for the demands ahead. Moreover, happiness off the pitch often translates into consistency on it. City’s staff place huge emphasis on mindset and adaptability. Semenyo appears aligned with those principles. Consequently, his integration process has been smoother than many expected.

    Implications for City’s Trophy Ambitions

    Manchester City remain firmly involved in multiple competitions. Their Premier League title defence remains intense. Domestic cups also offer further silverware opportunities. Semenyo’s arrival strengthens depth across attacking positions. Rotation will be crucial during a congested schedule. Therefore, his ability to deliver immediately is invaluable.

    From a broader perspective, his form may also influence online sports betting with Easybet. Bettors often react quickly to emerging scorers and in-form players. Semenyo’s early goals could see his name feature more prominently in goal-scoring odds. Meanwhile, City’s attacking efficiency may shift match predictions. Such developments underline how individual performances can ripple across the wider soccer ecosystem.

    Manchester Derby and Premier League Debut Looming

    Another milestone could arrive this weekend at Old Trafford. Semenyo is in line to make his Premier League debut against Manchester United (3.50). The Manchester derby remains one of the sport’s most intense fixtures. Pressure levels will be significantly higher than his previous appearances. However, his calm approach so far suggests readiness for the challenge.

    A strong showing in that environment would further elevate his standing. Importantly, Guardiola values players who perform in high-stakes moments. Semenyo has already delivered in knockout matches. Therefore, trust from the manager may grow rapidly. As the season progresses, his role could expand considerably. City supporters will watch closely, hopeful that their new signing continues his impressive start.

    WordPress keyword tags: Antoine Semenyo, Manchester City, Premier League, Carabao Cup, FA Cup, Manchester derby, Pep Guardiola, soccer transfers, online sports betting, Newcastle United

  • Minister charges information officers to align messaging with Renewed Hope Agenda

    Minister charges information officers to align messaging with Renewed Hope Agenda

    Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on information officers to ensure that government communication is unified, credible, and aligned with the administration’s agenda.

    Speaking at an interactive session with Directors of Information and Resident Information Officers (RIOs) across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), the minister emphasised that coordinated communication is essential for advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The session, themed “Aligning Public Information with the Renewed Hope Agenda: Rebuilding Trust through Effective, Transparent Communication,” focused on strengthening public trust through professionalism and consistency.

    “Public trust is our most important capital. Once credibility is lost, no amount of messaging can fix it,” Idris said, stressing that honesty, credibility, and consistency must guide the work of all information officers. He warned that fragmented messaging and parallel communication channels weaken government credibility and create confusion, insisting that the government must communicate with a single, clear voice.

    The minister urged RIOs to act as active partners within their host MDAs, engaging proactively with Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, and agency leadership. He highlighted professionalism, relevance, and initiative as key to earning trust and influence.

    Read Also: VCN to host second annual staff retreat to align with Renewed Hope Agenda, NL-GAS

    Addressing the challenges posed by misinformation and rapid digital media, Idris noted the importance of timely and accurate communication, stressing that delays often create space for false narratives.

    While reaffirming the government’s commitment to freedom of expression, he emphasized that it must be exercised responsibly.

    Idris also outlined steps to strengthen the professionalism of the information cadre, including mandatory reporting, improved deployment processes, continuous training, and enhanced institutional support.

    He disclosed that the government has begun restoring the National Institute of Public Information to boost capacity-building for public communicators.

    He concluded by calling for teamwork and mutual respect, reminding participants that they play a central role in projecting government policies and achievements, and must align their efforts with the priorities of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The event was attended by the SSA to the President on Media and Special Duties, Tunde Rahman; the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Ogbodo Chinansa Nnam; the Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali Mohammed-Ali, represented by Editor-in-Chief Mufutau Ojo; the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON) and Malam Jibrin Ndace, Director General of Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Malam Salihu Dembos, amongst others.

  • Police arrest seven suspected bandits, recover firearms in Kaduna

    Police arrest seven suspected bandits, recover firearms in Kaduna

    The Kaduna State Police Command has arrested seven suspected bandits and recovered assorted firearms and live ammunition in separate intelligence-led operations across the state.

    The Command said the arrests followed credible intelligence received on January 28 at about 5:45 pm, indicating that a group of suspects had prohibited firearms.

    Acting on the information, detectives from the anti–car theft section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) swung into action and arrested five suspects identified as Yusuf Aliyu Yusuf, Ahmed Umar, Abdullahi Muhammad, Ahmad Jazuli, and Muktar Bashir.

    Items recovered from the suspects include one English AK-47 rifle with two fully loaded magazines, two English Beretta pistols with a loaded magazine, and one fabricated Beretta pistol containing seven rounds of live ammunition.

    The police said the suspects are currently in custody while investigations are ongoing to uncover other criminal networks linked to them.

    In a related development, the Command said that on January 29, 2025, operatives of the Zaria City Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer, carried out a stop-and-search operation based on intelligence about the movement of armed bandits.

    The operation led to the arrest of two suspects, Adamu Lawal and Abdulhadi Lawal, both from Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State, who were found in possession of a fabricated firearm and are assisting police investigations.

    The Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, commended the officers for their professionalism and reaffirmed the Command’s zero tolerance for banditry and criminality, warning that Kaduna State would remain hostile to criminals and their collaborators.

  • Turaki-led PDP NWC insists it remains party’s legitimate leadership after court ruling

    Turaki-led PDP NWC insists it remains party’s legitimate leadership after court ruling

    The Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has maintained that it remains the party’s only lawful leadership despite a recent judgment by the Federal High Court in Ibadan.

    In a statement, the party said it has briefed its legal team on the ruling and will await the outcome of proceedings at the appellate court, urging members to remain steadfast in efforts to reposition and rebuild the PDP.

    A Federal High Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Friday nullified the PDP national convention held on November 15 and 16 in the state capital, restraining the leadership elected at the convention from presenting themselves as the party’s national executives.

    Earlier, a Federal High Court in Abuja had declined to grant an order nullifying the same elections and adjourned the case to allow for the determination of an appeal already filed on the matter.

    Read Also: PDP’s Gbenga Hashim slams ethnic rhetoric, warns against north–south divide

    The statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, reads, “We are aware of the judgment of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, delivered this morning, which essentially declined to grant the order of mandamus sought on the ground that doing so would, in the courts view, amount to sitting on appeal over judgments of courts of coordinate jurisdiction.

    “We have accordingly briefed our lawyers to immediately file an appeal and to take all further legal steps necessary to advance our arguments and firmly protect our position on this matter.

    “Notwithstanding this judgment, the Kabiru Turaki–led Peoples Democratic Party, which emerged from the Ibadan Convention, remains legally intact and unshaken, as we await the authoritative pronouncement of the appellate courts.

    “We therefore urge our members to remain resolute and committed as there is absolutely no cause for alarm. The rebirth movement remains firmly on course.”

  • What to know about UK’s new dual citizenship passport rules 2026

    What to know about UK’s new dual citizenship passport rules 2026

    The United Kingdom is set to enforce new passport and entry rules for dual citizens beginning in 2026, a move that will affect millions of British nationals living abroad.

    The changes are tied to the rollout of the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system and will significantly alter how British and Irish dual nationals enter the country.

    Here are the key things travellers need to know ahead of the new policy:

    1. The rules take effect on February 25, 2026

    From this date, new entry requirements for British and Irish dual citizens will be fully enforced by the UK Home Office.

    2. Dual citizens must use a British or Irish passport to enter the UK

    British and Irish dual nationals will no longer be allowed to enter the UK using only a foreign passport.

    3. Foreign passports will require a Certificate of Entitlement

    Dual nationals travelling on a non-UK passport must carry a paid Certificate of Entitlement confirming their right of abode.

    4. The changes are linked to the UK’s ETA system

    The policy is part of the broader Electronic Travel Authorisation rollout, similar to the US ESTA programme.

    5. The ETA costs £16 and is valid for two years

    The digital permit applies to visa-free travellers entering the UK for short stays.

    6. Dual citizens are not eligible for an ETA

    UK government guidance states that British and Irish dual nationals cannot apply for an ETA.

    Read Also: Seven Asian countries offering Nigerians e-visa

    7. This creates a conflict for dual nationals using foreign passports

    Because they cannot obtain an ETA, dual citizens must instead prove British or Irish nationality at entry.

    8. The policy affects citizens of many visa-free countries

    This includes nationals of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, the EU, and Schengen states.

    9. Visitors from these countries can stay up to six months

    ETA holders may visit the UK for tourism, business, or short-term work.

    10. Current entry rules remain valid until the 2026 deadline

    Dual nationals may continue entering the UK on foreign passports without an ETA until February 25, 2026.

    11. Those already in the UK before the deadline are unaffected

    Travellers who enter before the enforcement date can stay beyond it without applying for an ETA.

    12. Problems arise for dual nationals without a British passport

    Individuals who do not hold proof of British citizenship risk being denied boarding or refused entry.

    13. Overseas-born Britons may need to register their citizenship

    Those born abroad to British parents who have never held a UK passport must register and obtain one before travelling.

    14. The Certificate of Entitlement is costly

    The document costs £589 and must be renewed each time the passport it is linked to expires.

    15. Dual citizenship status remains unchanged

    The UK government has confirmed that the rules do not affect the legal right of dual nationals to live and work in the UK, as they apply only to entry and passport requirements.

  • Why I wasn’t surprised by my mother’s death – Omije Ojumi’s son

    Why I wasn’t surprised by my mother’s death – Omije Ojumi’s son

    Bobby Williams Adeoye, son of late gospel singer Omije Ojumi, has revealed that he wasn’t entirely surprised by his mother’s passing, recalling she often spoke about death while alive.

    He paid an emotional tribute to his mother during her service of songs, describing his mother as a loving, caring, and strong woman who dedicated her life to his success.

    In his tribute, he recalled Omije Ojumi’s cheerful nature and jokes that made their home a happy place, stating that her humour is one of the things he misses the most since her passing.

    “My mother was a very loving, beautiful, and caring person to me, actually. So she was very, very strong. She will do anything to see me come first in anything, or even in class. Anytime I come back from school, she always wants to know what happened. So, that is the loving part about mommy. She’s the best mother in the world to me.

    “When I heard she was dead, I was not that surprised because she had always been saying it. She has always been saying it. She cracked jokes to make everyone lively, and that’s the main reason why I also miss Mommy. I know you’re dead right now, but you will always be alive in my heart and in my dreams. I love you mommy. May your soul rest in peace.”

    Omije Ojumi, whose real name is Bunmi Akinaanu Adeoye, passed away on January 12, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of gospel music, sacrifices, and dedication as a mother.

  • Harrysong responds to ex-wife’s custody claims, reaffirms commitment to children

    Harrysong responds to ex-wife’s custody claims, reaffirms commitment to children

    Singer Harrysong has reacted to his ex-wife, Alexer Peres, following her emotional announcement about relinquishing custody of their two children.

    Alexer had earlier alleged harassment and interference in an Instagram post, claiming the singer is rarely present and leaves the children in the care of domestic staff.

    In response, Harrysong denied restricting her access to the children, describing himself as an involved and responsible father who actively provides for their needs.

    He said he has chosen to avoid prolonged public exchanges to protect the children’s image and future career prospects, adding that he is hurt by the narrative being circulated.

    The singer stressed that his primary focus remains the well-being, safety, and overall development of their children.

    He wrote, “I’ve chosen restraint to protect the mother of my children and, most importantly, our kids because what’s said online lives forever. I previously made the mistake of speaking from emotion and learnt the hard way.

    Read Also: Harrysong’s ex-wife gives up custody of children temporarily

    I never said she couldn’t have access to them.

    “They’ve been in my custody is a decision made for reasons u can’t put out on the internet. I’ve remained active, present father and have continued to provide for our children, even while they were in her care. The current narrative online is deeply hurtful and risks damaging the very image and career that supports our children. Is it worth it?

    “I won’t engage in public back-and-forth that could one day harm them. My focus remains their well-being”.

  • Being a celebrity affected my love life – Iyanya

    Being a celebrity affected my love life – Iyanya

    Afrobeats singer Iyanya has spoken about his difficulty committing to relationships, attributing it to negative past experiences and the demands of his music career.

    In an interview on the Afropolitan podcast, the 39-year-old revealed that previous relationships left a lasting impact, recalling instances where former partners allegedly threatened to harm his reputation during conflicts.

    He admitted that these experiences, combined with the pressures of life in the entertainment industry, have shaped his current reluctance to commit.

    Iyanya said he is not mentally prepared for a serious relationship or marriage at this stage, noting that he is focused on emotional healing and personal growth.

    “I’m not thinking of a serious relationship or marriage because I’m not mentally ready yet. If you are patient and stick around until I get to a convenient space, then we can do it.

    “But for now, to be committed is one of the hardest things for me to do. Because I have been committed several times as a celebrity, and each time, I got hurt.

    “You know, when you are famous, you always have girlfriends who can’t wait to go to the blogs when you have misunderstandings.

    “I’m human, too. It’s not possible for me to be in the music industry for 17 years, and all I have been doing is playing games with women.

    “Of course, I have emotions, so I’ve met people and fallen in love with them genuinely. But they always threatened me with going to the blogs whenever we have issues. That kind of made me develop commitment issues because it has happened several times,” he explained.

    Iyanya has also adopted celibacy but confessed that maintaining it consistently is a struggle. “My celibacy fluctuates; it goes up and down,” he said, acknowledging the difficulties of staying true to his decision.