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Tag: Nigeria

  • On alleged resource mismanagement by governors

    On alleged resource mismanagement by governors

    Sir: The U.S embassy in Nigeria recently adverted the public to the alleged growing resource mismanagement by state governors citing various elephant projects from construction of sprawling state secretariat buildings to commercially questionable overhead bridges and less than viable airports across the states.

    The fiscal dysfunction has remained unchecked because an average Nigerian evaluates governance from a unitary paradigm; the first person to blame for his poverty and hunger is the president and not his local government chairman or his governor.  The civil society organizations and those who could turn the narrative against the alleged sleaze being perpetrated at the subnational levels are caught in the sensational bubble of headlines and not people oriented advocacy accentuated in the chemistry of empathy.

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    Rather than looking at the U.S embassy’s intervention as a diplomatic overreach, it behoves the federal government and the president’s handlers to look inwards and see how the reforms so wonderfully enunciated at the centre are being watered down at the states.

    This is dangerously so because the governors seem not to realize that the ballooning state allocations at their disposals are a mere transfer of resources hitherto being enjoyed by Nigerians in the petrol and forex subsidies to the governments closest to them. Whilst the states are constitutionally mandated to be over-sighted and held accountable by state Houses of Assembly, the later have failed woefully to carry out those oversights to the extent of being complicit in facilitating graft across the states.

    Nigerians have lost count of the number of litigation being canvassed by SERAP most of which are aimed at enforcing good governance at the federal level; what about the states?

    Perhaps for lack of visibility and the  media headlines grab, most civil rights outfits do not consider calling out state governments a worthwhile effort which further pivoted the governors’ latitude to impoverish the masses within their jurisdiction.

    The gratifying local governments’ autonomy ruling by the Supreme Court which offered denouements in resource penetration to the grassroots is unfortunately and dangerously being muzzled across the states. Why the finance minister and the attorney general of the federation have allowed this to fester is bewildering to say the least.

    It is rather befuddling that the ubiquitous Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) has kept a muted silence since the U.S embassy’s uproarious revelation.

    The NGF has simply given impetus to Samantha Power’s popular maxim which says ‘Silence in the face of atrocity is not neutrality but silence in the face of atrocity is acquiescence’.

    •ESV Bukola Ajisola bukymany@yahoo.com

  • Nigeria, Benin Republic agree on joint Trade framework

    Nigeria, Benin Republic agree on joint Trade framework

    In a major step toward strengthening regional trade ties and economic integration, the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Benin have agreed on a joint trade framework to eliminate trade bottlenecks.

    The framework is also to facilitate economic development, and create new opportunities across both countries.

    The agreement was reached at a high-level meeting held at the Ministère de l’Économie et des Finances, Cotonou, Benin Republic, on Saturday, 2 August 2025.

    The session brought together senior government officials, Customs chiefs, and trade experts from both countries to chart a collaborative path toward efficient cross-border trade.

    At the event, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Jumoke Oduwole, described the bilateral framework as a bold step forward in West Africa’s regional economic strategy.

    “This agreement signals strong political will from both countries to pursue a progressive and inclusive trade relationship,” she said.

    She recalled Presidents Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Patrice Talon’s recent signing of a preliminary Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the West African Economic Summit, stressing that both leaders had charged their technical teams with translating political commitments into actionable policies.

    “Our joint commitment is to dismantle barriers, improve logistics, and ensure that trade becomes a tool for job creation and regional prosperity. The Heads of Customs of both nations have demonstrated commendable synergy, which we are expanding through four thematic working groups covering trade facilitation, enforcement, data sharing, and infrastructure,” she explained.

    Mrs. Oduwole emphasised Nigeria’s ambition to evolve from being a regional trade player to a global voice in shaping fair and inclusive international trade systems.

    Also speaking at the event, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, reaffirmed the Service’s readiness to execute the trade agreement’s outcomes and ensure its alignment with Nigeria’s national trade priorities.

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    “What we have witnessed today is the culmination of intensive technical meetings between Nigeria and Benin Customs officials over the past 48 hours. We’ve developed a joint framework that reflects our Presidents’ shared vision for economic growth,” he stated.

    He revealed that a formal Memorandum of Understanding, building on this framework, is expected to be signed by the first quarter of 2026.

    Highlighting Customs’ role in achieving seamless cross-border trade, CGC Adeniyi announced plans to implement corridor-based solutions to facilitate transit and transshipment trade while eliminating bureaucratic delays that affect small and medium enterprises.

    “We’re committed to removing trade barriers that hinder local businesses. New trade corridors have been identified, and connectivity between our systems has already been activated,” he added.

    The CGC also extended appreciation to his Beninese counterpart, Director-General of Benin Customs, Mrs. Adidjatou Hassan Zanouvi, for her unwavering support and the country’s endorsement of Nigeria’s leadership at the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council meeting in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.

    Both delegations undertook a joint tour of Cotonou Port to assess port procedures and explore modernisation opportunities as part of the engagement. They also visited the Seme-Krake Joint Border Post, symbolising the countries’ shared commitment to deepening integration through coordinated border management.

    The agreement is expected to open a new chapter in Nigeria-Benin trade relations anchored on transparency, technology, and mutual growth.

  • Jonah Isawa Elaigwu, Political Science Scholarship and Discourse on Federalism in Nigeria

    Jonah Isawa Elaigwu, Political Science Scholarship and Discourse on Federalism in Nigeria

    • By Tunji Olaopa

    One of the reasons I always return to my professional starting point in the Presidency is essentially because it constituted a seminal grounding foundational space where several political, non-political and technocratic actors hammered the rehabilitation of the Nigerian state. Indeed, IBB drew into his kitchen cabinet a significant number of intellectuals from the corps of political scientists in Nigeria including professors Omo Omoruyi, Bolaji Akinyemi, Humphrey Nwosu, Ibrahim Gambari, Sam Oyovbaire, Tunde Adeniran, Tunji Olagunju, Adele Jinadu, A. D. Yahaya, Jonah Elaigwu inclusive, among others. It was in the seminal climate of policy work where these scholars worked with a legion of others within a multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary matrix in the Presidency that I began to cut my professional teeth not just as a civil servant but as a scholar of public administration. It was at the Presidency that I first started at the Speechwriting Unit, and then began to make my way round all the critical sectors, ministries, departments and agencies. This constituted a most significant and rewarding learning curve for me in terms of the challenges and opportunities I had to confront and engage with.

    However, outside of the structures, procedures ad processes that make up the institutional composition of the civil service, the Presidency was also where I met a different level of mentors, seniors, leaders, professionals and technocrats all of whom contributed to the shaping of my professional maturation as a budding scholar-practitioner. It was at the Presidency that I first met the late Professor Jonah Isawa Elaigwu. I had been posted as a chief policy analyst to the secretariat of the Presidential Advisory Committee (PAC), set up by the Babangida administration. The PAC was headed by the late Prof. Ojetunji Aboyade, and Prof. Elaigwu was one of the eminent expert-advisors that made up the Committee. Other members of PAC were Dr. Michael Omolayole, Prof. Francis Idachaba, Prof. Ikenna Nzimiro, Prof. A. D. Yahaya who replaced Prof. Yaya Abubakar Aliyu when the latter died and Chief Effiong Essien who replaced Prof. Iz Osayimwese when he took up an appointment in Vienna.

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    To understand the PAC and the significant role Prof. Elaigwu and other played in it, some background information is required. The PAC was put in place as sounding board for expert insights, among other things, to push forward many of the governance and policy implications of development programmes of the administration. A particular policy that provided the grounding for my research and foray into public administration scholarship involved the renowned economist and former DG of NISER Ibadan, late Prof. Adedotun Phillips. The Dotun Phillips Study report on civil service reform of 1985 and the Civil Service Reorganization Decree of 1988 had been commissioned by the Buhari administration in 1984. And with IBB resolve to latch on to US type presidential system introduced by the 1979 Constitution that birth the second republic as his governance template when he took on the title of President, his administration inherited the Phillips Study Report to harvest its recommendations that aligned the civil service with the presidential system of government. Indeed, apart from reinventing the Udoji Commission’s earlier attempt to log Nigeria into the global wave of managerialism that was reshaping the frontiers of public administration praxis, a most significant recommendation of the Phillips Report was the replacement of the parliamentary system with presidentialism, and the significant documentation of the implication of this for the governance structure of the Nigerian state, especially the civil service, and the larger implications for Nigeria’s federalism. The PAC therefore served as the locus of a critical policy-engaged research interrogation of many of these initiatives through policy advisory professionalism constituted around the expertise and technocratic knowledge of significant individuals who debate governance and policy matters that could shape Nigeria’s social contract.

    One of the most intractable harms done to the Nigerian Constitution, commencing from the inauguration of military rule in 1966, was the dismantling of the vitality of Nigeria’s federal system. The new federalism inaugurated by the military was a lopsided one that disarticulated the relationship that ought to exist between the centre and the federating units. One of the most fundamental areas impacted by this lopsidedness is fiscal relationship among the three tiers of government, especially in terms of revenue allocation. There is also the implication of this for conflict resolution and the building of a developmental state in Nigeria. We have since been having the constant debate around the lingering issue of the necessity of state police, in the face of mounting insecurity in Nigeria, as a testament to this unresolved intergovernmental relation for example.

  • NIS cautions Nigerians against misusing U. S. visas

    NIS cautions Nigerians against misusing U. S. visas

    The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has issued an advisory urging Nigerians to use their U.S. visas responsibly and in strict compliance with the stated purpose of their application.

    This follows concerns raised by the U.S. Government over the misuse of visas by some Nigerian citizens.

    In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, the Service Public Relations Officer,(SPR0), Akinsola Akinlabi, said Nigerians holding U.S. visas must adhere to the terms and conditions under which the visas were granted.

    “The Nigeria Immigration Service wishes to inform the general public of concerns raised by the United States Government regarding the misuse of U.S. visas by Nigerians.

    “All visa holders are advised to strictly adhere to the purpose stated in their visa applications

    “U.S. authorities conduct security screening beyond the initial point of entry into the country. Any breach of immigration or other laws can lead to visa revocation or deportation.

    “Breach of visa conditions, including overstaying, may attract severe penalties, including removal from the U.S. and permanent ineligibility for future travel,” he said.

    According to him, the U.S. remains committed to maintaining a secure and transparent visa process and expects all visa holders to comply fully with its immigration regulations.

    He also advised Nigerian students in the U.S. to remain in active study programmes and refrain from unauthorised withdrawal or absenteeism.

    He noted that such actions could result in visa cancellation and the loss of future eligibility for U.S. travel.

    The NIS warned that the U.S. consular officers reserve the right to deny tourist visas to applicants suspected of intending to travel for the purpose of giving birth, in a bid to secure U.S. citizenship for their children.

    “The NIS will continue to collaborate with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria is not included in any expanded visa restrictions,” he said.

    “We are calling on all Nigerian citizens to comply with U.S. visa rules as such conduct is essential to safeguarding legitimate travel opportunities.

    (NAN)

  • Connecting with Nigeria’s best minds through Diaspora BRIDGE platform

    Connecting with Nigeria’s best minds through Diaspora BRIDGE platform

    In a historic first by the Bola Tinubu-led administration, the Federal Government has introduced a platform to close gaps in education and research as well as raise Nigeria’s global academic standing. Frank Ikpefan reports

    On Monday, the government took a bold step to connect with Nigerian professionals in diaspora with the launch of the Bridging Research, Innovation, Development, and Global Engagement (BRIDGE) Diaspora Platform.

    The platform serves as a national handshake across oceans to connect with Nigeria’s best minds and strengthen tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

    Experts believe that the platform would help turn Nigeria’s brain-drain into a brain-gain. It will also provide the opportunity to harness talents of Nigerians abroad to transform education in Nigeria.

    The Diaspora BRIDGE platform was unveiled at a colourful event at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja by Vice President Kashim Shettima, along with Ministers of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa; Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad; Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate; Yusuf Tuggar among other dignitaries. Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah represented the Nigerian Governors’ Forum at the event.

    What the initiative is all about

    The platform was developed through strong collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Education and Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) and is designed to work seamlessly with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund); National Universities Commission (NUC); National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and other key agencies.

    The platform was developed to connect Nigerian professionals and academics in the diaspora with tertiary education and research institutions across Nigeria.

    It is part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at leveraging the expertise of Nigerians abroad to advance national development goals in education, science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEM-M).

    The platform enables diaspora professionals to register, upload their credentials, and indicate areas of interest.

    Nigerian institutions, in turn, can conduct self-assessments, identify research and teaching gaps, and request targeted collaborations.

    The platform also includes features such as virtual seminar hosting, e-learning modules, collaboration tracking, and a searchable directory of experts and also supports project life cycle monitoring, from proposals to execution, through integration with TETFund’s Tertiary Education, Research, Application and Services (TERAS).

    Experts on the initiative

    A research expert, Dipo Awojide, who is a Senior Management Consultant in the United Kingdom, in a short video on X (Twitter), said the platform provides an opportunity for Nigerian professional in diaspora to contribute to research.

    He said: “I am really proud of the Minister of Education, Dr. Alausa for introducing the Diaspora BRIDGE – a great initiative that will benefit the Nigerian education sector. I look forward to bringing my knowledge back home.

    “It is an opportunity for us to connect with Nigerian universities and research institutes. I could get the opportunity to teach in the University of Lagos (UNILAG); Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU); University of Abuja (UNIABUJA; Osun State University; Ahmadu Bello University Zaria etc.

    “As someone who has supervised two PhD students and being an internal examiner for a PhD graduate, this is an opportunity for me to contribute to research in Nigeria.”

    While presenting an overview of the platform, Special Adviser to the President on Diaspora Engagement, Dr. Bayo Adedewe, said BRIDGE was anchored on President Tinubu’s vision to institutionalise diaspora contributions.

     “The idea is to tap into the immense potential of our professionals abroad and create a system that ensures their contributions are structured, impactful, and aligned with national priorities,” he explained.

    Vice President: this is a very good programme

    Speaking at the launch, Shettima, who was represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, described the platform as a symbol of restored trust, a framework for renewed partnership, and a strategic pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He said: “BRIDGE is not just another government programme; it is a deliberate effort to reconnect Nigeria’s greatest asset, its people, no matter where they are in the world.

    “By building a technology-enabled platform that connects diaspora professionals with institutions in Nigeria for research, teaching, mentorship, and innovation, we are not only opening doors, we are redesigning the architecture of collaboration.

    “We are saying to our diaspora: ‘You belong. You matter. You are needed. And we are saying to our institutions: You will no longer be left behind in the global conversation.’”

    The Vice President said that the platform will help reverse years of fragmented engagement between diaspora professionals and home institutions caused by distance, bureaucracy, and a deficit of trust.

    “This programme recognises a simple truth: that Nigeria’s greatest asset is its people — both at home and abroad. Our scholars, scientists, technologists, teachers, doctors, and innovators are scattered across the globe, achieving great things and raising the Nigerian flag high in every corner of the world. What we lacked was a system to harness their passion and expertise in a structured, dignified, and sustainable manner. That is what BRIDGE provides.”

    Platform is a bold, transformative step, says Alausa

    On his part, Dr. Alausa said that the platform was a bold and transformative step to restore Nigeria’s intellectual capital and global partnerships.

    He stated: “This is a defining moment for our country. Nigeria can no longer afford to watch its finest minds excel abroad while our institutions struggle at home. BRIDGE is a powerful response to that challenge. It’s a call to action and a national handshake across oceans.

    “Through BRIDGE, we are launching a digital platform that allows for collaborative teaching, mentorship, joint research, capacity-building and policy innovation — all driven by diaspora and home-based professionals alike.

    “It will offer flexible channels for virtual and physical engagement, and empower universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and teaching hospitals to define their specific needs and match them with global Nigerian expertise.

    “In doing so, we will not only close gaps in education and research, but raise Nigeria’s academic standing in the world.”

    The minister added: “As someone who trained in Nigeria and excelled abroad, I understand the importance of giving back. BRIDGE is our answer to turning brain-drain into brain-gain, connecting those who left, with the institutions they once called home.

    “We’re not just asking our diaspora to return, we’re creating flexible pathways to contribute through collaborative teachings, virtual mentoring, research, curriculum review and institutional development.

    “To our diaspora professionals — this is your invitation to reconnect. Not as outsiders looking in, but as co-builders of a better Nigerian education system.

    “To our institutions — BRIDGE will help you access talent, partnerships, and innovation from beyond our borders. And to our students — BRIDGE is a promise that your education will prepare you to compete and lead in the global knowledge economy.”

    The minister said that BRIDGE would enable structured collaboration through teaching, mentorship, joint research, policy innovation, and project partnerships, all within a flexible digital environment.

    He revealed that the platform would also integrate with TETFund’s TERAS to ensure transparency and seamless project monitoring.

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    BRIDGE is a game-changer, says Dabiri-Erewa

    Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, commended the Federal Ministry of Education for what she described as a game-changer that will redefine how the diaspora contributes to nation-building.

    She said: “This initiative is not just a digital hub, it’s a national bridge. We’ve spoken with the diaspora for years, but BRIDGE now gives them the platform to engage meaningfully.

    “We salute your sacrifices and urge you to share your knowledge, mentor our learners, organise workshops, and offer scholarships. Together, we will move Nigeria forward.”

    Dabiri-Erewa revealed that some Nigerian diaspora professionals have already started donating equipment and medical resources to support local institutions.

    “This is our moment. Let us all take advantage of it,” the NiDCOM chair added.

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, described the platform as a necessary ideological shift that will not only strengthen the education sector but also reduce the pressure for migration.

    “This platform offers remote learning and collaboration opportunities that can keep our talents connected without necessarily relocating,” he said.

     Pate: a step toward deepening trust

    Also speaking, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, said the initiative was a step toward deepening trust and shared responsibility between diaspora and local stakeholders.

     “This is more than a digital platform. It’s about building national capacity by combining the power of both Diasporas and locals,” Pate stated.

    Nnaji: programme is timely

    Minister of Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, said the programme was timely and strategic in a world where innovation moves rapidly.

    “Nigeria cannot afford to let brilliant minds remain disconnected. BRIDGE aligns with our ministry’s mission to upgrade national research capabilities,” he said.

    ‘An urgent call to reconnect our diaspora with our local institutions’

    Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, who represented the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, said BRIDGE was “an urgent call to reconnect our diaspora with our local institutions.”

    He stressed the importance of preparing Nigerian graduates to not only compete globally but to become local innovators and builders of our future.

    According to Mbah, the initiative is designed to match diaspora expertise with local institutions based on identified needs, fostering targeted collaborations aligned with Nigeria’s development goals.

    He said: “In addition to serving as matchmaking-hub for expertise and institutional needs, the BRIDGE empowers Nigerian tertiary institutions to conduct self-assessments, identify gaps in teaching and research, and express interest in specific collaborations.

    “This forum offers more than a passive nod to education as the single most important sector upon which Nigeria’s socio-economic fate depends.

    “For years, understanding of the role of the Nigerian diaspora was mostly via the basic economic lines of their remittances.

    “What has been lacking is a formal platform where their expertise and collective financial part could be hosted. Let us recognise, however, that this gathering is not just for the discussion.

    “It is urgent call to reconnect global expertise with local purpose.

    “We must build living bridge between rich patterns of our diaspora and developmental needs of Nigeria’s higher education system.”

  • How bio technology can tackle Nigeria’s food crisis, by clerics, experts

    How bio technology can tackle Nigeria’s food crisis, by clerics, experts

    Islamic clerics and experts have backed adoption of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and biotechnology in agriculture, citing their potential to solve Nigeria’s food security crisis.

    Speaking at a workshop organised by Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) Nigeria, under National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), religious leaders pledged spiritual and moral support for government-led biotech initiatives.

    Secretary to Chief Imam of Dantata Mosque, Abdullahi Nuhu, said the endorsement reflects a broader commitment in the Islamic community to support innovation that can improve livelihoods and ensure food availability.

    “We pledge our prayers and spiritual support to ensure success of these programmes,” Nuhu said. “Our leaders encourage us to back these efforts wholeheartedly.”

    Director-General of NBRDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, noted the role of GM in addressing Nigeria’s food and environmental challenges.

    He assured participants that GMO seeds being deployed are locally produced by Nigerian companies, giving the country control over production and supply.

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    “Rejecting safe and tested innovations at a time of food insecurity would be a missed opportunity,” Mustapha warned.

    “This is about ensuring food self-sufficiency while protecting our environment.”

    NBRDA’s Director of Agricultural Biotechnology, Dr Rose Gidado, outlined benefits of GM crops, including reduced pesticide use, pest resistance, longer shelf life, and climate resilience.

    “Biotechnology holds the key to building a sustainable agricultural system and fostering socio-economic development,” she said.

    The Principal Investigator of the Pod Borer Resistant (PBR) cowpea, Prof. Mohammed Ishiyaku,  described biotechnology as a cost-effective and sustainable solution to low farm yields.

    “These crops meet international safety standards and have been proven safe for both human consumption and the environment,” henoted.

    The workshop brought together scientists, policymakers, and faith-based leaders to deepen understanding and build consensus around the role of biotechnology in agricultural transformation.

  • FG deepens neurological health infrastructure investments in Nigeria

    FG deepens neurological health infrastructure investments in Nigeria

    The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening neurological healthcare in Nigeria through expanded infrastructure, increased financing, and improved data systems, amid a rising burden of stroke, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, and neurodevelopmental disorders.

    Speaking at the First Africa Neurological Health Summit in Abuja, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate said government investments are aimed at embedding mental and neurological health into national priorities and financing mechanisms.

    The summit, convened by the Brain & Spine Foundation in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, focused on identifying systemic gaps in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and financing of neurological health.

    The forum also aligned its objectives with the WHO Intersectoral Global Action Plan (IGAP) on epilepsy and other neurological disorders.

    Stakeholders stressed the need for integrated data systems, improved access to care in underserved communities, and multisectoral collaboration.

    The goal, they said, is to ensure no Nigerian is left behind due to location, age, or socio-economic background.

    Represented by Dr. Tunde Ojo, the Minister said: “The integration of mental and neurological health indicators into the National Health Information Management System is a strategic move to improve planning, tracking, and evidence-based decision-making.

    “It allows real-time data collection and enables better understanding of disease burden to guide policies across all levels of government.”

    He added that mental and neurological healthcare has now been incorporated into the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), backed by one percent of the Consolidated Revenue Fund, “guaranteeing a sustained funding stream for interventions in this area,” he added.

    According to Pate, the National Mental Health Act, signed into law in 2022, has triggered reforms to strengthen the prevention and management of mental and neurological conditions, in line with the broader national policy and action plan for non-communicable diseases.

    The World Health Organisation (WHO) also pledged technical support to Nigeria in its efforts to address neurological and mental health challenges.

    Highlighting the personal and systemic challenges of neurological care in Nigeria, the Convener of the summit and Executive Director of the Brain & Spine Foundation, Engr. Chika Okwuolisa said, “We’re confronting one of Africa’s most overlooked public health crises, neurological disorders.

    “Many of these conditions strike without warning and leave behind long-term consequences that devastate individuals, families, and communities.”

    Recalling her sister’s struggle with five brain surgeries and multiple strokes, she said, “I’ve seen firsthand how stigma, silence, and financial hardship become barriers to survival. There are still millions suffering in silence, many without access to timely diagnosis or treatment.”

    Since its inception in 2017, according to her, the Brain & Spine Foundation has supported over 300 indigent neurological patients and carried out awareness campaigns in schools, markets, and hospitals, she noted.

    The organisation, she noted, has also conducted studies assessing the readiness of Nigerian health facilities to handle neurological emergencies.

    “Nigeria must prioritise brain and spine health, build a coherent national strategy aligned with global benchmarks, and ensure equitable access to care through robust investment, training, and inclusive policies,” she stressed.

    Veteran neurosurgeon and pioneer of the specialty in Nigeria, Prof. Samuel Ohaegbulam, who traced the evolution of the field from the 1970s when only five neurosurgeons were available nationwide, underscored the need for heavy private sector investment in the sector.

    He recalled being turned away from the University College Hospital, Ibadan, for lack of vacancies, as well as lack of equipment at the University of Nigeria, Nsuka, prompting him to establish a neurosurgery centre in Enugu.

    “In 1985, I delivered a lecture titled ‘Is Neurosurgery a Luxury in Developing Countries?’ out of deep frustration with the lack of facilities and support.

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    “Despite training on the world’s first CT scanner, it was difficult to secure essential resources.”

    Ohaegbulam emphasised that sustained government and private sector investment is crucial to advancing neurological care.

    Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Brain and Spine Foundation and President of the Nigeria Stroke Organisation, Prof. Yomi Ogun, decried the neglect of specialist training, warning that “without investments in capacity development, the country risks widening the neurological treatment gap.”

    Former Minister of Women Affairs, Iyom Josephine Anenih, called for increased budgetary allocation to the health sector and better welfare for healthcare workers.

    “We do not have enough personnel or infrastructure to deal with the neurological needs of our rapidly ageing population,” she warned.

  • Nigeria, South Africa sign  MoU to enhance technical partnerships on Karate

    Nigeria, South Africa sign  MoU to enhance technical partnerships on Karate

    President of Karate South Africa and  Commonwealth Karate Federation, Hanshi Sonny Pillay, has lauded Honourable Silas Agara, President of the Nigerian Karate Federation, for his outstanding contributions to the growth of the sport in Nigeria and beyond.

    The recognition was conferred during a landmark ceremony that also featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Nigerian Karate Federation and Karate South Africa.

    The agreement sets the foundation for technical partnerships, athlete exchange programs, and joint development initiatives between the two federations.

    Pillay commended  Agara’s visionary leadership, particularly praising the successful hosting of the Africa UFAC Championships 2035 in Abuja. He described the event as a defining moment for African karate.

     “I foresee a senior leadership role for President Silas, who has done an outstanding job in advancing karate in Nigeria through numerous impactful initiatives,” said Pillay. “The recent Africa UFAC Championships in Abuja will remain a historic benchmark for generations, given its exceptional standards.”

    In addition to the honour, Hanshi Pillay inducted Agara into the Commonwealth Karate Organization and invited him to assume a leadership position within Commonwealth Africa—a move he described as essential for elevating African karate on the global stage.

    Responding to the recognition and the newly signed MoU, Honourable Silas Agara expressed deep appreciation and described the partnership as a transformative step for Nigerian karate.

     “Today in South Africa, we signed a  MoU with the South African Karate Federation that will enhance technical partnerships and strengthen the competencies of our officials in Nigeria,” Agara stated.

    He highlighted the significance of the collaboration, noting that it would provide valuable opportunities for Nigerian athletes to train and compete in South Africa, while also welcoming South African experts to support technical development in Nigeria.

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    “This partnership marks a turning point for our sport,” Agara added. “It will elevate the standards of officiating, increase international exposure for our athletes, and foster mutual growth. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to implementing the MoU for the benefit of both countries.”

    Pillay also encouraged Nigeria to actively prepare for upcoming continental and international events, including the Commonwealth Africa Karate Championships scheduled for January in Accra, Ghana, and the 2026 Commonwealth Karate Championships in Glasgow, Scotland, which will follow the Commonwealth Games.

     “Our ultimate goal is to see karate officially recognized as a Commonwealth Games sport,” Pillay emphasized. “With the support of dedicated leaders like President Silas and the Nigerian Karate Federation, this vision is within reach.”

    He concluded by reaffirming the Commonwealth Karate Federation’s commitment to achieving global recognition for African athletes, citing Nigeria’s involvement as central to this mission.

  • Six countries granting automatic citizenship by birth for Nigerians 2025

    Six countries granting automatic citizenship by birth for Nigerians 2025

    The United States Mission in Nigeria on Monday, warned that any visa applicant found to be travelling primarily to give birth in the U.S. to secure citizenship for their child will be denied entry.

    The warning was issued in a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) via the official handle @USinNigeria.

    The mission stressed that consular officers will deny visa applications if they suspect the applicant’s primary purpose of travel is to give birth in the United States.

    “Using your visa to travel for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States so that your child will have U.S. citizenship is not permitted. Consular officers will deny your visa application if they have reason to believe this is your intent,” the post stated, tagging it with hashtags #VisaWiseTravelSmart and #USVisa.

    However, as US immigration policies become more strict, a number of countries still uphold unrestricted birthright citizenship, granting automatic nationality to anyone born on their soil, regardless of parental citizenship or legal status.

    Here are six countries welcoming citizen by birth for Nigerians

    1. Canada

    Canada grants automatic citizenship to any child born within its borders. While the child is immediately recognized as a citizen, foreign parents must go through a separate immigration process to gain citizenship, typically through family reunification.

    Canada’s passport ranks among the top 10 most powerful in the world.

    2. Mexico

    Mexico maintains unrestricted birthright citizenship, excluding only children of foreign diplomats. All others born on Mexican territory are entitled to citizenship by law.

    3. Brazil

    In Brazil, all children born in the country are constitutionally guaranteed citizenship.

    Parents are allowed to apply for residency, and can proceed to naturalization after just one year.

    The Brazilian passport ranks among the 20 strongest passports globally.

    4. Argentina

    Argentina provides automatic citizenship to any child born within its borders.

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    Foreign parents can apply for citizenship after only one year of residence, making it one of the most lenient systems in the world.

    The Argentine passport also ranks among the top 20 globally.

    5. Peru

    Peru offers unrestricted jus soli, granting citizenship to any child born in the country, regardless of their parents’ immigration status.

    While the child becomes a citizen at birth, foreign parents can apply for residency and later seek naturalization.

    Peru’s passport grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 130 countries, including most of Latin America and parts of Europe.

    6. Costa Rica

    Children born in Costa Rica automatically receive citizenship.

    Parents can apply for residency after three years and may seek naturalization after a total of ten years (three years before application + seven years of residency).

    Though the process is longer, the country remains an attractive option due to its stable legal framework and peaceful environment.

  • ‘Nigeria key player in $15tr global leisure travel boom’

    ‘Nigeria key player in $15tr global leisure travel boom’

    Nigeria stands to benefit significantly from a global leisure travel revolution that will see spending triple to $15 trillion by 2040, this is according to a new report by Boston Consulting Group (BCG).

    Titled:  ‘Unpacking the $15 Trillion Opportunity in Leisure Travel’, the report said the country is uniquely positioned both as a source of innovative travellers and as an emerging destination poised to capture significant share of the booming regional travel market.

    Nigerian professionals are pioneering the future of travel, with 73per cent planning to combine business and leisure trips—significantly higher than traditional markets like the United States (15per cent), United Kingdom (22per cent), and Germany (30per cent). This positions Nigeria as a key driver of new travel patterns reshaping the global tourism industry.

    The BCG study surveyed approximately 450 Nigerian travellers as part of a global research initiative covering 5 000 travellers across 11 countries, examining travel motivations, booking behaviours, and future planning intentions.

    It stated that the country is strategically positioned to benefit from increased regional travel growth, with BCG’s research showing regional travel will triple to more than $2 trillion globally by 2040. Domestic leisure travel presents an even larger opportunity, projected to reach nearly $12 trillion globally.

    “Nigeria represents a perfect storm of opportunity. Nigerian travellers are already growing in importance for global tourism while their home country offers exactly what tomorrow’s travellers are seeking—rich cultural experiences, spiritual destinations, and safety-conscious travel options,” BCG Managing Director and Partner, Tolu Oyekan, said.

    Nigeria’s destination advantages align perfectly with emerging travel trends. The study identified a growing ‘safety’ traveller archetype prioritising security, health, and family well-being. Nigeria’s investment in improved security infrastructure and health facilities positions the country to attract these safety-conscious travellers who seek destinations prioritising environmental and social responsibility while offering group-friendly accommodations.

    Additionally, the country’s diverse religious heritage and cultural richness position it as a prime destination alongside India and Saudi Arabia for spiritual and cultural tourism, catering to travellers seeking religious experiences, cultural exploration, and heritage tourism.

    As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria naturally attracts business travellers, providing a solid foundation for tourism growth beyond traditional leisure travel. The country can leverage this by developing world-class MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions) facilities and investing in seamless business-leisure integration that allows visitors to effortlessly blend professional obligations with personal exploration.

    Nigerian travellers’ balanced approach to digital innovation—embracing AI while valuing human interaction—provides a strategic blueprint for the country’s tourism marketing. Something that Nigeria can harness through AI-powered discovery initiatives ensuring prominence in LLM-based travel searches, while leveraging social media platforms where digitally native travellers seek inspiration.

    By using advanced technology to create highly customised travel itineraries catering to individual preferences—whether for spiritual tourism, cultural exploration, or ‘bleisure’ experiences—Nigeria can deliver personalised experiences that modern travellers demand. These tailored experiences, when shared across digital platforms, create powerful word-of-mouth marketing that organically amplifies Nigeria’s destination appeal.

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    With regional travel set to triple, Nigeria is positioned to capture significant economic benefits extending beyond tourism itself. This includes substantial job creation across hospitality, tourism services, and cultural industries; crucial foreign exchange earnings from visitors; infrastructure development helping broader economic development; and cultural preservation through sustainable tourism practices.

    The infrastructure investments neede will create multiplier effects, with improvements in transportation, accommodation, and digital connectivity benefiting both tourism and broader economic development across the country.

    BCG Managing Director and Senior Partner, Lara Koslow, said: “The travellers of tomorrow look different—who they are, who they travel with, what they expect, and how they make decisions. Nigeria is uniquely positioned to both create these travellers and welcome them home.”

    Nigeria’s dual role as both creator and destination for the next generation of travellers positions the country to capture significant share of the $15 trillion leisure travel opportunity while establishing itself as a model for responsible tourism development in Africa.