The Nation Newspaper

Category: Foreign

  • Deportation threat: Fed Govt opens talk with Ghana

    Deportation threat: Fed Govt opens talk with Ghana

    Minister of States for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has stepped in to address the challenges faced by some Nigerians in Ghana.

    The visit may not be unconnected to the viral video, which has already caused panic among Nigerians in Ghana and back home.

    In the video, some Ghanaians were seen protesting and calling for deportation of Nigerians in a video which has gone viral.

    Mrs. Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who is in Ghana on a two day official visit, according to a statement by her media aide, Mr. Magnus Eze, will engage Ghanaian officials and Nigeria community.

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    The statement reads: “The Minister is in Ghana to address the situation of Nigeria-Ghana citizens’ relations and meet with relevant stakeholders at both ends, including the President of Ghana, the country’s Foreign Minister, traditional rulers and Nigerians resident in the country, to ensure that the life, property and businesses of Nigeria and Nigerians living in Ghana are safe and protected.

    “As part of the engagements for the minister, a few minutes after touching down at Kotoka Accra International Airport, Ghana on Tuesday evening, she had a quick interface with the Inspector General of Police of Ghana, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who was on his way to London, United Kingdom.

    “Odumegwu-Ojukwu continued similar engagements on Wednesday with Ghanaian officials and leaders of the Nigeria community.”

    Eze stated that the minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining robust relations with the Republic of Ghana, including at citizen-to-citizen level.

    She is expected back to Abuja today.

  • Canada-based lawyer hails Bamidele at 62, describes Senate leader as democracy icon

    Canada-based lawyer hails Bamidele at 62, describes Senate leader as democracy icon

    Olaojo Temitope Vincent, a Canada-based lawyer and CEO of WhiteRock Energy Resources, has celebrated Senate Majority Leader Senator Micheal Opeyemi Bamidele on the occasion of his 62nd birthday.

    Bamidele, born on July 29, 1963, was praised by Olaojo as “a tenacious legal eagle and pro-democracy champion,” whose contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey remain significant.

    Describing the senator as a “colossus of Nigerian democracy and a shining emblem of legislative brilliance,” Olaojo noted that Bamidele is a pride of Ekiti land whose journey from student activism to Senate leadership is both hard-earned and well-deserved.

    He further highlighted Bamidele’s impactful representation of Ekiti Central, noting that his eloquence in the Senate has translated into tangible progress in infrastructure, healthcare, and youth empowerment across the constituency.

    The statement reads, “On this day of celebration, we accord you praise and hail you as a tireless nation-builder whose intellectual depth, political maturity, and commitment to the rule of law have helped stabilize Nigeria’s democratic institutions and elevate the status of the National Assembly.

    “Today, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele is not only the Majority Leader of the Senate but also the conscience of progressive politics in Nigeria. His life has been a masterclass in integrity, vision, and public service. He represents what every young Ekiti person should aspire to be: brilliant, bold, and committed to the upliftment of his people.”

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    The lawyer further described the legal luminary and former commissioner as a trailblazer whose consistent advocacy for justice, youth empowerment, and infrastructural development has inspired generations and earned him respect across political divides.

    “Senator Bamidele’s contribution to the democratic journey of Nigeria is both historic and ongoing. Whether in the courtroom, at the state level, or now at the hallowed chambers of the Senate, he has never wavered in his fight for equity, fairness, and prosperity for all Nigerians. As Majority Leader, he has brought dignity to the office, commanding the respect of colleagues and constituents alike.

    “As we mark this special day in his life, may God grant Senator Bamidele long life, sound health, and greater capacity to continue championing the ideals of good governance and national unity. Ekiti is proud of you. Nigeria is blessed to have you,” Olaojo concluded.

  • Calls for reparations spark scrutiny of France’s colonial past in Senegal

    Calls for reparations spark scrutiny of France’s colonial past in Senegal

    France’s colonial legacy in West Africa has come under renewed scrutiny as demands for reparations and economic justice intensify across the region.

    At a high-profile roundtable held at the African Memorial Square in Dakar, Senegal, historians, journalists, pan-African activists, and descendants of colonial-era soldiers gathered to demand formal accountability from the French government.

    The event, spearheaded by advocacy groups such as the Association of Descendants of Senegalese Soldiers, the Front for the Withdrawal of French Military Bases (GASSI), and JIF’AFRIK, reignited urgent conversations about France’s historical exploitation and the continued impact of neocolonial policies on the region.

    “The time for symbolic gestures is over,” declared Babacar Dioh of the Thiaroye 44 Movement—a coalition of descendants of Senegalese tirailleurs who served France during both World Wars. “We are now filing an official reparations claim and taking concrete steps to hold France accountable.”

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    Souleymane Jules Diallo, leader of JIF’AFRIK, linked the region’s ongoing development challenges to the legacy of colonialism and denounced exploitative military and trade agreements that persist decades after independence.

    The forum’s key demands include formal reparations for colonial-era injustices and the renegotiation of post-independence agreements that activists argue reinforce economic dependency. Participants also called for the removal of French military bases and the establishment of an economic model grounded in sovereignty, sustainability, and fairness.

    Beyond financial redress, speakers highlighted the enduring social and environmental damage caused by colonial rule, urging a comprehensive reckoning with history.

    As Dakar emerges as a new hub for reparations advocacy, observers believe this renewed movement could shape future diplomatic dynamics between African nations and France, particularly as younger generations lead the charge for meaningful decolonisation in both policy and practice.

  • UK-trained lawyer slams Kemi Badenoch over comments on Nigerian citizenship laws

    UK-trained lawyer slams Kemi Badenoch over comments on Nigerian citizenship laws

    A United Kingdom-trained legal practitioner and human rights advocate, Chief Niyi Aborisade, has faulted British Conservative politician Kemi Badenoch over her recent comments on Nigeria’s citizenship laws, describing her statements as misleading and damaging to Nigeria’s image.

    In a statement titled “Kemi Badenoch Lies and Obsession with Nigeria” released in Ibadan, Aborisade said Badenoch’s claim that she could not obtain Nigerian citizenship for her children due to her gender was “completely false” and contradicted the Nigerian constitution.

    Aborisade, a 2027 Oyo State governorship hopeful under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), argued that Section 25 of the 1999 Constitution clearly grants citizenship by descent to any person born outside Nigeria, provided at least one parent is Nigerian.

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    He expressed disappointment that Badenoch, despite her legal background, made such claims, suggesting either a lack of research or a deliberate attempt to distort facts for political reasons.

    The lawyer also recalled Badenoch’s early political rise in the UK, stating that she once leaned on her Nigerian heritage to gain support from the Nigerian community but has now distanced herself from those same roots.

    Aborisade accused her of inconsistency and of undermining the very community that once supported her. 

    He also criticised her position on immigration, saying her stance contradicts the opportunities she once benefited from.

    Referencing recent comments by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer describing Badenoch as “desperate for relevance,” Aborisade said the label reflects her current political posture.

    He concluded by urging Badenoch to use her platform to support, not alienate, her Nigerian heritage and community.

  • UK’s Starmer holds urgent Cabinet meeting on Gaza peace pathway

    UK’s Starmer holds urgent Cabinet meeting on Gaza peace pathway

    British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will convene an urgent Cabinet meeting on Tuesday as he seeks to set out a pathway to peace in Gaza.

    Starmer will call senior ministers in during the summer recess for the meeting on Gaza on Tuesday afternoon, the PA news agency understands.

    The prime minister shared plans he is working on with France and Germany to “bring about a lasting peace” with U.S. President Donald Trump when they met in Scotland, Downing Street said.

    And he planned to share details with Arab states and other key allies in the coming days.

    Starmer was facing mounting calls to recognise Palestinian statehood immediately.

    The prime minister’s official spokesman said: “This week, the Prime Minister is focused on a pathway to peace to ensure immediate relief for those on the ground, and a sustainable route to a two-state solution.

    “We are clear that the recognition of the Palestinian state is a matter of when, not if.

    “But it must be one of the steps on the path to a two-state solution as part of a wider plan that delivers lasting security for both Palestinians and Israelis.”

    Amid international alarm over starvation in Gaza, Israel announced at the weekend that it would suspend fighting in three areas for 10 hours day and open secure routes for aid delivery.

    The UK confirmed it was taking part in airdrops of aid into the territory.

    Aid agencies have welcomed the new measures but said they were not enough to counter the rising hunger in the Palestinian territory.

    Starmer said that the British public was “revolted” at the scenes of desperation in Gaza as he appeared alongside Trump at his Turnberry golf course on Monday.

    “It’s a humanitarian crisis, it’s an absolute catastrophe.

    “Nobody wants to see that. I think people in Britain are revolted at seeing what they’re seeing on their screens, so we’ve got to get to that ceasefire.”

    The U.S. president hinted at sticking points in U.S.-led negotiations over a peace deal, saying Palestinian militant group Hamas had become “very difficult to deal with” in recent weeks.

    He said this was because they only held a small remaining number of Israeli hostages.

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    Starmer has likened the plan he is working on with France and Germany to the coalition of the willing, the international effort to support Ukraine towards a lasting peace.

    The prime minister’s official spokesman said the plan would build “on the collaboration to date that paves the way to a long-term solution on security in the region.”

    Starmer is meanwhile facing calls from a growing number of members of parliament (MPs) to recognise a Palestinian state immediately.

    More than 250 cross-party MPs have now signed a letter calling for ministers to take the step, up from 221 on Friday.

    (dpa/NAN)

  • UN declares July 7 ‘World Amotekun Day’, acknowledges role in regional security

    UN declares July 7 ‘World Amotekun Day’, acknowledges role in regional security

    The United Nations (UN) has declared July 7 annually as ‘World Amotekun Day’ to acknowledge the efforts of the Western Nigeria Security Network, code-named Amotekun Corps, in Ondo State.

    The UN also said the decision was influenced by the recognition of Amotekun’s outstanding role in combating crime across the southwest region of the country.

    This was contained in a statement released on Monday in Akure, the state capital, by Adetunji Adeleye, state commander of Amotekun.

    The statement said the affiliation was made known at the Amotekun headquarters in Akure by Ambassador Dr. Markwili Mgbara, Director of Information and Communications of the International Association of World Peace Advocates.

    According to the statement, Mgbara said the affiliation certificate was issued under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) consultative status and the International Association of World Peace Advocacy.

    “Ondo Amotekun is the first state-owned security agency that has gained a peculiar international affiliation with the United Nations in saving lives.

    “This certificate confirms the affiliation of the Ondo State Amotekun Corps as a trained security unit recognised by the UN, while Amotekun is also expected to collaborate with various UN offices.

    “Amotekun, established in 2019, aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its broader vision for peace and security by 2030.

    “UN recognises Amotekun’s achievements in reducing crime, supporting farmers, ensuring highway safety and protecting lives and property across Nigeria’s South-West region.

    “Because of these efforts, Amotekun will now participate in various UN security and human rights meetings globally, like the United Nations’ 80th Anniversary event scheduled for Sept.22, 2025, in New York,” the statement read.

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    It said Adeleye, also Chairman, Council of Amotekun Commanders, dedicated the recognition to God and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for an enabling environment for Amotekun to thrive.

    According to the statement, Adeleye recounted the difficult start of the agency five years ago, when farmers could not go to their farms, and many businesses were shut down.

    “Today, thanks to God and the government’s support, farmers have returned, food insecurity has reduced, and economic activities are thriving,” he said.

    The commander assured residents, commuters, and farmers that Amotekun remained committed to working with other security agencies to ensure safety.

    Adeleye, however, said that no society was entirely crime-free, but noted that Ondo State had made adequate progress in being crime-free.

  • APC France chapter congratulates Yilwatda, pledges support for party unity, growth

    APC France chapter congratulates Yilwatda, pledges support for party unity, growth

    The France chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has congratulated Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda on his emergence as the National Chairman of the ruling party, urging him to steer the APC toward greater unity, discipline, and strategic growth.

    Yilwatda was elected on Thursday at the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, becoming the 7th National Chairman of the party following the resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje on health grounds.

    In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, Chairperson of the APC France Chapter, Hajia Amina Suzuki Baba, expressed confidence in Yilwatda’s leadership and ability to advance President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “On behalf of the entire executive council and members of the APC France Chapter, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda on his well-deserved inauguration as National Chairman of our great party,” the statement read.

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    “This new chapter marks not only a personal milestone but also a renewed opportunity to lead our party toward enhanced cohesion and strategic development. We trust in your visionary leadership to align with the aspirations of President Tinubu and the broader goals of the APC.”

    Baba reaffirmed the commitment of APC members in France and across Europe to support the party’s progress.

    She emphasized the chapter’s dedication to mobilizing support, promoting party ideals, and advocating for Nigerians in the diaspora.

    “We look forward to working closely with you to strengthen the party’s presence in Europe, engage more actively with Nigerian communities abroad, and contribute to democratic growth and national development.

    “As you assume this critical leadership role, we pray for wisdom, strength, and divine guidance. May your tenure usher in impactful reforms and a renewed focus on inclusiveness and national progress. Congratulations once again, sir.”

  • Israel responds to WHO accusations over attacks on Gaza facilities

    Israel responds to WHO accusations over attacks on Gaza facilities

    Israel’s military on Tuesday responded to accusations by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that its forces attacked the UN agency’s facilities in central Gaza and detained staff members.

    The military said soldiers came under fire in the city of Deir al-Balah on Monday and returned fire in the direction the shots originated.

    However, the military did not specify whether the gunfire came from WHO premises in Deir al-Balah.

    The WHO said that a staff accommodation facility was attacked on Monday and that a central warehouse had been damaged in a separate incident on Sunday.

    According to a report by Israeli news outlet Ynet, citing a military spokesperson, the army is aware of claims that a residential complex housing WHO employees was struck.

    The report added that, according to the military, no agency staffs were injured.

    The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) publicly confirmed that several individuals were detained in Deir al-Balah on suspicion of “involvement in terrorism.’’

    It did not clarify whether those detained were WHO employees or their relatives, as the UN agency has claimed.

    Most of those detained were released following on-site questioning, the army said.

    The IDF did not comment on one individual who, according to the WHO, remained in custody.

    In a statement on Monday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said male WHO staff and their male relatives had been handcuffed, stripped, searched at gunpoint, and interrogated on site.

    Responding to the claim, the Israeli military stated on Tuesday that at times during field questioning.

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    “It is necessary for individuals suspected of terrorist activity to temporarily remove parts of their clothing in order to ensure that they are not concealing explosive belts or other weapons.’’

    Suspects were treated in accordance with international law, the military added.

    Ghebreyesus also said that women and children related to WHO staff had been forced to flee on foot amid the fighting.

    The Israeli military said it had warned civilians to leave the area prior to its operation and had been in contact with international organisations operating there.

    The IDF advanced this week into the south-west of Deir al-Balah as part of its operations against Hamas and other militant groups.

    (dpa/NAN)

  • Malcolm-Jamal Warner ‘Cosby Show’ star dies at 54

    Malcolm-Jamal Warner ‘Cosby Show’ star dies at 54

    Malcolm-Jamal Warner, beloved actor best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’, has died at the age of 54 following a tragic drowning incident off the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica.

    Warner was reportedly on a family trip when the incident occurred on Sunday, July 20, at Playa Cocles in Limón Province.

    The incident occurred on Sunday, July 20, when Warner was swimming at Playa Cocles in Limón Province.

    A strong current pulled him out to sea, and despite efforts by beachgoers to bring him to shore and attempts by the Costa Rican Red Cross to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

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    According to local authorities, the official cause of death was confirmed as asphyxia due to drowning.

    Authorities have ruled out foul play, labelling the incident a tragic accident. Warner’s body was formally identified by national police officials.

    Warner leaves behind a legacy of notable roles in TV dramas like The Resident and Malcolm & Eddie, as well as his work as a musician and podcast host.

    His portrayal of Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show earned him an Emmy nomination in 1986 and remains one of his most iconic roles.

  • Japan’s prime minister vows to stay on inspite of loss

    Japan’s prime minister vows to stay on inspite of loss

    Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba yesterday said he intends to remain in office, despite his ruling coalition losing its majority in the upper house in weekend elections.

    Ishiba’s long-dominant Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its junior coalition partner Komeito secured 47 seats, falling short of the 50 needed to retain control of the chamber.

    The coalition had already lost its majority in the more powerful lower house back in October.

    Ishiba acknowledged the “harsh verdict” delivered by voters on Sunday but stated he would not step down, according to local media reports.

    Speaking at a press conference, the prime minister admitted the situation was “thorny” but ruled out expanding the coalition.

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    This marks the first time since its founding in 1955 that the LDP has lost its majority in both houses of parliament, dealing a historic blow to a party that has governed almost continuously for decades.

    Without a majority, Ishiba’s coalition will now have to rely on support from outside parties to continue governing.

    The prime minister could face mounting pressure from within the LDP to resign.

    Public dissatisfaction over rising prices and the government’s immigration policy played a key role in the election outcome, according to pre-election polls. These concerns boosted support for smaller right-wing populist parties such as the openly xenophobic Sanseitō party, which won 14 seats.