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  • Nigeria, U.S. reaffirm commitment to protect religious freedom, strengthen security

    Nigeria, U.S. reaffirm commitment to protect religious freedom, strengthen security

    Nigeria and the United States have reaffirmed their resolve to deepen cooperation on religious freedom and national security, pledging sustained joint action to protect vulnerable communities and hold perpetrators of violence accountable.

    This is contained in a joint statement issued by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the U.S. team lead, Under Secretary of State, Ms. Allison Hooker, at the end of the first session of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group, held in Abuja on Thursday.

    According to the statement, the Working Group was established to address issues arising from Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern under the U.S. International Religious Freedom Act.

    It was also to foster practical cooperation aimed at reducing violence, particularly against Christian communities, and ensuring freedom of worship for all Nigerians.

    The joint statement noted that strategic discussions focused on strengthening collaboration to improve religious freedom and enhance security across the country, while recognising the long-standing partnership between both nations, founded on shared values of pluralism, respect for the rule of law and national sovereignty.

    It said the U.S. delegation welcomed Nigeria’s ongoing realignment of security resources, especially in the North Central states, as part of efforts to address insecurity and protect civilians.

    Both sides, the statement said, reaffirmed their “strong and unflinching commitment” to the principles of religious freedom.

    Read Also: Nigeria, Austria pledge to deepen bilateral ties, expand strategic cooperation

    “They also agreed on the need for active and sustained measures to safeguard the rights to freedom of religion, expression and peaceful assembly in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” it added.

    The statement further emphasised the importance of protecting civilians, particularly members of vulnerable Christian communities, and ensuring accountability for those responsible for acts of violence.

    It added that both countries agreed to further strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation, including through enhanced operational collaboration, access to technology, anti-money laundering efforts, countering the financing of terrorism, and building law enforcement and investigative capacity.

    The U.S. side, according to the statement, commended Nigeria for its prompt actions to enhance security for at-risk Christian communities and Nigerians of all faiths affected by terrorism and criminal violence.

    The joint statement concluded that the next meeting of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group would be held in the United States at a mutually convenient date to be arranged through diplomatic channels.

    (NAN)

  • FULL LIST: Trump imposes U.S. entry restrictions on Nigeria, 23 other countries

    FULL LIST: Trump imposes U.S. entry restrictions on Nigeria, 23 other countries

    United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced an expansion of entry restrictions on foreign nationals from 24 countries, citing what his administration described as “persistent and severe deficiencies” in screening, vetting, and information-sharing that pose risks to U.S. national security and public safety.

    The decision was outlined in a fact sheet published on the White House website titled “President Donald J. Trump Further Restricts and Limits the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the Security of the United States.”

    The fact sheet emphasises that these measures “are necessary to prevent the entry of foreign nationals about whom the United States lacks sufficient information to assess the risks they pose” and to enforce immigration laws while protecting American citizens.

    According to the document, the new Proclamation places a full suspension of entry on eight countries and partial restrictions on 16 others, affecting both immigrant and non-immigrant travellers. The affected visa categories include B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2 (business and tourism), as well as F, M, and J visas for students and exchange visitors.

    The administration said the measures were aimed at preventing the entry of individuals for whom the United States lacks sufficient information to adequately assess security risks, while also strengthening enforcement of immigration laws.

    Security Incident Fuels Policy Shift

    The announcement follows heightened security concerns after two U.S. National Guard soldiers were shot near the White House in November. Authorities confirmed that one soldier was killed, while a suspect was arrested shortly after the incident.

    In response, Trump said he would suspend migration from what he described as “third world countries,” a day after U.S. officials alleged that the shooting was carried out by an Afghan national. The comments marked a further escalation in Trump’s hardline immigration stance during his second term, which has been characterised by a mass deportation campaign.

    U.S. officials later identified the suspect as a 29-year-old Afghan national who had previously worked alongside American forces in Afghanistan. According to AfghanEvac, an organisation that supports Afghans resettled in the U.S. after the Taliban takeover in 2021, the individual was granted asylum earlier this year but did not hold permanent residency.

    Review of Green Card Holders

    In the first week of December, the Trump administration also announced a review of the immigration status of all permanent residents, commonly known as Green Card holders, from Afghanistan and 18 other countries following the attack.

    The review builds on a June executive order signed by Trump that classified 19 countries as “Countries of Identified Concern.” That order imposed entry bans on nearly all nationals from 12 countries, including Afghanistan.

    The countries listed under the June ban include Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.

    Barely two weeks after the order, Trump also initiated plans to impose a general visa ban on Nigerian nationals.

    Wider Visa Restrictions Considered

    A report by The Washington Post revealed that an internal memo signed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio proposed visa restrictions or entry bans on up to 36 additional countries. The memo indicated that the affected nations were given a 60-day deadline to meet new U.S. State Department requirements or face possible travel restrictions.

    However, reports indicate that the deadline elapsed in August 2025, with the new Proclamation only being issued four months later.

    Understanding Full and Partial Restrictions

    Under the Proclamation, full suspensions generally bar citizens of affected countries from entering the United States and halt the issuance of most new immigrant and non-immigrant visas. Limited exemptions may apply to lawful permanent residents, diplomats, and specific protected categories.

    Partial restrictions, on the other hand, limit or suspend specific visa classes, such as tourist, student, or exchange visas. They may also involve stricter vetting procedures, reduced visa validity periods, and enhanced screening requirements before entry is granted.

    Here are 24 affected countries

    JUSTIFICATION FOR FULL SUSPENSION

    Burkina Faso

    According to the Department of State, terrorist organizations continue to plan and conduct terrorist activities throughout Burkina Faso. According to the Fiscal Year 2024, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Entry/Exit Overstay Report (“Overstay Report”), Burkina Faso had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 9.16 percent and a student (F), vocational (M), and exchange visitor (J) visa overstay rate of 22.95 percent. Additionally, Burkina Faso has historically refused to accept back its removable nationals.

    Laos

    According to the Overstay Report, Laos had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 28.34 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 11.41 percent. According to the Fiscal Year 2023, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Entry/Exit Overstay Report (“2023 Overstay Report”), Laos had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 34.77 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 6.49 percent. Additionally, Laos has historically failed to accept back its removable nationals.

    Mali

    According to the Department of State, armed conflict between the Malian government and armed groups is common throughout the country. Terrorist organizations operate freely in certain areas of Mali.

    Niger

    According to the Department of State, terrorists and their supporters are active in planning kidnappings in Niger, and they may attack anywhere in the country. According to the Overstay Report, Niger had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 13.41 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 16.46 percent.

    Sierra Leone

    According to the Overstay Report, Sierra Leone had a B-1/B-2 overstay rate of 16.48 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 35.83 percent. According to the 2023 Overstay Report, Sierra Leone had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 15.43 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 35.83 percent. Additionally, Sierra Leone has historically failed to accept back its removable nationals.

    South Sudan

    According to the Overstay Report, South Sudan had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 6.99 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 26.09 percent. Additionally, South Sudan has historically failed to accept back its removable nationals.

    Syria

    Syria is emerging from a protracted period of civil unrest and internal strife. While the country is working to address its security challenges in close coordination with the United States, Syria still lacks an adequate central authority for issuing passports or civil documents and does not have appropriate screening and vetting measures. According to the Overstay Report, Syria had a B1/B2 visa overstay rate of 7.09 percent and a F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 9.34 percent.

    Palestinian Authority Documents

    Several U.S.-designated terrorist groups operate actively in the West Bank or Gaza Strip and have murdered American citizens. Also, the recent war in these areas likely resulted in compromised vetting and screening abilities. In light of these factors, and considering the weak or nonexistent control exercised over these areas by the PA, individuals attempting to travel on PA-issued or endorsed travel documents cannot currently be properly vetted and approved for entry into the United States.

    JUSTIFICATION FOR PARTIAL SUSPENSION

    (Immigrants and Nonimmigrants on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J Visas)

    Angola

    According to the Overstay Report, Angola had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 14.43 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 21.92 percent.

    Antigua and Barbuda

    Antigua and Barbuda has historically had Citizenship by Investment (CBI) without residency.

    Benin

    According to the Overstay Report, Benin had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 12.34 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 36.77 percent.

    Cote d’Ivoire

    According to the Overstay Report, Cote d’Ivoire had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 8.47 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 19.09 percent.

    Dominica

    Dominica has historically had CBI without residency.

    Gabon

    According to the Overstay Report, Gabon had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 13.72 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 17.77 percent.

    The Gambia

    According to the Overstay Report, The Gambia had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 12.70 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 38.79 percent. Additionally, The Gambia has historically refused to accept back its removable nationals.

    Malawi

    According to the Overstay Report, Malawi had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 22.45 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 31.99 percent.

    Mauritania

    According to the Overstay Report, Mauritania had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 9.49 percent. According to the Department of State, the Government of Mauritania has little presence in certain parts of the country, which creates substantial screening and vetting difficulties.

    Nigeria

    Radical Islamic terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State operate freely in certain parts of Nigeria, which creates substantial screening and vetting difficulties. According to the Overstay Report, Nigeria had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 5.56 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 11.90 percent.

    Senegal

    According to the Overstay Report, Senegal had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 4.30 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 13.07 percent.

    Tanzania

    According to the Overstay Report, Tanzania had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 8.30 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 13.97 percent.

    Tonga

    According to the Overstay Report, Tonga had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 6.45 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 14.44 percent.

    Turkmenistan

    Since the issuance of Proclamation 10949, Turkmenistan has engaged productively with the United States and demonstrated significant progress in improving its identity-management and information-sharing procedures.

    The suspension of entry into the United States of nationals of Turkmenistan as nonimmigrants on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas is lifted. Because some concerns remain, the entry into the United States of nationals of Turkmenistan as immigrants remains suspended.

    Zambia

    According to the Overstay Report, Zambia had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 10.73 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 21.02 percent.

    Zimbabwe

    According to the Overstay Report, Zimbabwe had a B-1/B-2 visa overstay rate of 7.89 percent and an F, M, and J visa overstay rate of 15.15 percent.

  • U.S. and Africa: How not to engage a changing continent

    U.S. and Africa: How not to engage a changing continent

    • By Olalekan Adigun

    The year is 2025, yet many American politicians still behave as though the world is frozen in the post–World War II and Cold War era, when the myth of U.S. exceptionalism held strong influence across Africa. Today’s global order has shifted, but Washington’s tone toward Africa remains trapped in an age of threats, lectures, and unchecked arrogance. The result? The United States is losing ground on a continent that now demands respect, partnership, and dignity—not paternalism.

    Over the years, African leaders and citizens have grown increasingly disillusioned with how U.S. officials speak about them. From the infamous “shithole countries” remarks—echoed repeatedly by American politicians who mirror Donald Trump’s style—to the persistent framing of African states as helpless dependents, Washington’s posture feels outdated. As an African saying goes: If you are not feeding me, and I have never begged you to feed me, telling me you are richer than I am is useless information.

    Read Also: Insecurity: Senate moves to amend Terrorism Act, proposes death penalty for kidnapping

    Africa of 2025 is not the Africa of the past. Gone are the days when leaders trooped to Washington “cap in hand” in pursuit of crumbs. Economically, geopolitically, and demographically, the continent has become a fiercely competitive space—and the numbers tell the story.

    China has firmly established itself as Africa’s largest source of imports. As of 2025, 34 of Africa’s 54 countries list China as their top import partner, reflecting Beijing’s broad export and developmental presence—from giant infrastructure projects and mining ventures to machinery, chemicals, and everyday consumer goods. It is a full-spectrum relationship built on convenience, speed, and mutual economic benefit.

    On the export side, resource-rich African nations increasingly look to the UAE and China. The UAE, now a major importer of African gold, has aggressively expanded diplomatic and commercial ties across the continent. China remains one of the largest buyers of African crude oil. The U.S., meanwhile, trails far behind.

    The Trump administration, which returned to power in January, aims to secure “advantageous” trade deals through tariffs and tougher rules. But such measures threaten key African economies that depend on the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Countries like Ethiopia, Madagascar, Kenya, and Eswatini—whose textile and apparel sectors are built around U.S. markets—face serious economic shocks if AGOA is abolished or tariffs increased.

    Instead of strengthening partnerships, Washington appears intent on signalling dominance. Africa is responding by diversifying—and choosing partners who treat them as equals.

    What Africans want is simple: Respect. Not lectures. Not threats. And certainly not condescending conditions masquerading as “assistance.”

    China’s model—while not perfect—offers lessons. Beijing does not visit Africa to scold governments over known problems; it comes to negotiate railways, ports, power plants, and industrial parks. It may all be business, but it is business wrapped in dignity. China does not insist that Africans change their political systems, cultural identities, or ideologies before cooperation can proceed.

    Contrast that with Washington’s approach.

    In 2017, after years of resistance, the U.S. finally sold Nigeria the A-29 Super Tucano aircraft to fight insurgency—only after imposing strict conditions: the jets could only be used in the Northeast. Nigeria paid $593 million of its own hard-earned money, yet Washington dictated how and where the aircraft could be deployed. Predictably, insurgents adapted and expanded operations into other regions. To many Nigerians, that did not feel like assistance—it felt like control.

    The U.S.’s unconditional support for Israel’s devastating assault on Gaza has made Washington increasingly isolated in global opinion. African countries, which take issues of justice and human rights seriously due to their own histories, watched closely as South Africa dragged Israel before the International Court of Justice in 2024. Washington’s anger over this move marked the beginning of a strained relationship with Pretoria. Trump even revived old tropes, suddenly claiming that “white South Africans” needed protection—comments widely dismissed across the continent.

    Since his first election in 2016, Donald Trump has never set foot in Africa. Yet he talks about the continent in the most degrading terms. His disdain reflects a wider problem: many U.S. policymakers still view Africa as a peripheral region deserving of sermons, not sovereignty. This is not lost on African governments, who increasingly perceive the U.S. as unreliable, disrespectful, and out of touch.

    Africa is young, rising, and increasingly empowered. New partners—China, UAE, India, Turkey, Brazil, Gulf states—are courting the continent with investment, infrastructure, and flexible diplomacy. The U.S., by contrast, is clinging to outdated assumptions and moral superiority.

    If Washington wants to regain influence, it must change its tone. Africans do not demand charity. They demand dignity. They demand equality. They demand genuine partnership.

    Until American leaders stop speaking down to Africa and start engaging it as a global player, the United States will continue to lose ground on a continent that has clearly—and decisively—moved on.

    •Adigun is a researcher and journalist based in Abuja.

  • Nigeria, U.S. agree on new cooperation framework

    Nigeria, U.S. agree on new cooperation framework

    • Fed Govt strengthening intelligence to tackle threats, says Badaru

    The Federal Government yesterday said it is intensifying the integration of intelligence capabilities across the security architecture to confront rapidly changing threats.

    A statement by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the Nigerian delegation held extensive engagements with the U.S. Congress, State Department, National Security Council, White House Faith Office and the U.S. Department of War.

    The talks focused on boosting joint operations against terrorism, violent extremism and cross-border criminal networks.

    Nigeria used the meetings to firmly reject allegations of genocide against Christians in parts of the country.

    It insisted that the violence in affected communities is neither one-sided nor targeted at any ethnic or religious group.

    The delegation warned that mischaracterising the security situation could inflame tensions and undermine ongoing peace efforts.

    At the end of the engagements, the U.S. Government pledged to expand cooperation in intelligence sharing, expedite Nigeria’s requests for defence equipment and consider supplying excess defence articles, subject to availability.

    Washington also expressed readiness to increase humanitarian support to communities in the Middle Belt and assist with strengthening Nigeria’s early-warning and rapid-response mechanisms.

    Both countries agreed to activate a non-binding cooperation framework and set up a Joint Working Group to implement agreed priorities.

    Nigeria, in return, reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians and vulnerable communities in conflict-prone areas.

    Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru stated this in Abuja at the opening of the 2025 Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI) Annual Conference.

    He reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to building a modern, technology-driven national security system capable of anticipating and neutralising emerging dangers.

    The conference, with the theme: “Multi-source intelligence innovation in a challenging national security ecosystem,” brought together senior defence intelligence officers, Nigeria’s Defence Attachés and Advisers posted to missions across the world, regional directors and state intelligence coordinators.

    Read Also: Benefits of Recreation in Mental and Physical Wellbeing in Nigeria

    It coincided with the return of a high-level Nigerian delegation led by National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu from Washington, D.C., with fresh commitments from senior U.S. government officials to deepen counterterrorism cooperation.

    Tinubu prioritising security for economic growth, says Badaru

    Speaking at the DIA conference, Badaru said President Tinubu sees security as the foundation upon which national prosperity must be built.

    This, he said, explains the administration’s heavy investments in interagency cooperation, modern equipment, improved welfare for personnel and enhanced intelligence structures.

    Badaru noted that Nigeria’s security challenges have evolved beyond traditional warfare into a complex network of threats driven by technology, cross-border alliances and manipulation of digital spaces.

    “We no longer confront one predictable enemy. Our adversaries exploit technology, hide within civilian populations, manipulate communication networks and operate across physical and digital spaces at unprecedented speed,” he said.

    He identified terrorism, banditry, cybercrime, violent extremism and disinformation campaigns as the most active and multidimensional challenges confronting Nigeria.

    To stay ahead, he said, the intelligence community must adopt innovation, speed and strategic integration.

    “In line with the President’s vision, the Ministry of Defence and Defence Headquarters have prioritised a seamless intelligence-operations integration framework that ensures real-time data flow between the DIA, the Service Headquarters and operational theatres,” he added.

    The Minister commended the DIA for implementing the Joint Intelligence Mission Data and Analytics System (JIMDAS), integrating cognitive analytics into its workflow and boosting cyber-monitoring capabilities, reforms he described as “true force multipliers.”

    ‘Technology at heart of intelligence work’

    Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt-Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, said the Defence Intelligence Agency is deliberately investing in advanced technologies, human intelligence and interagency collaboration to enhance Nigeria’s national security outcomes.

    He described Nigeria’s security environment as “dynamic and complex,” with insurgency, terrorism, banditry and organised crime stretching across multiple theatres.

    This reality, he said, requires an intelligence system that is agile, multidimensional and capable of integrating data from diverse sources.

    “Multi-source intelligence lies at the heart of our ability to anticipate, dictate and neutralise emerging threats,” the CDI said.

    “By leveraging innovations in data analytics, artificial intelligence and interagency information-sharing, we can build a unified national intelligence framework for strategic and operational decision-making.”

    He said the DIA has operationalised the Defence Intelligence Agency Technology Centre (DIATC), set up last year to drive innovation in five core areas: cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning and data analytics.

    “These technologies are transforming intelligence work globally because the sheer volume of information generated daily exceeds manual processing capacity.

    “The DIA is committed to embedding these innovations across its operations to achieve decisive advantage in both peace and conflict,” he said.

    He added that the agency is also strengthening partnerships with allied nations, noting that Nigeria’s defence attachés play a critical role in intelligence diplomacy, joint training and active information exchange.

    Akpabio unveils Counter Terrorism Strategic Plan

    Also yesterday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio unveiled Nigeria’s Counter Terrorism Strategic Plan 2025 – 2030.

    It was designed by the National Counter Terrorism Centre in the Office of the NSA.

    The Senate President noted that every generation faced a question that history demanded it must answer.

    He said: “For ours, the question is clear: how do we secure our nation, safeguard our people and set Nigeria irreversibly on the path of peace, growth and stability?

    “The Strategic Plan 2025 – 2030 answers this question with vision, discipline and ambition.

    “It offers a framework for transforming our institutions, modernising our security architecture, strengthening national resilience and expanding partnerships across government, industry, civil society and the international community.

    “As President of the Senate, I have seen how insecurity weakens the foundations of development.

    “Investors withdraw, schools close, farmers abandon their fields, and hope retreats from the hearts of our young people.

    “That is why a pragmatic, forward-looking and implementation-driven plan such as this is timely, necessary and welcome.

    “While security is a constitutional responsibility shared by all arms of government, the legislature has a unique obligation – to provide the legal, oversight and budgetary backbone upon which security institutions stand and thrive.

    “The 10th National Assembly has taken this duty seriously. We have enacted far-reaching laws in defence, policing, intelligence coordination, cybersecurity and counter-terrorism.

    “We have strengthened agency mandates, promoted inter-agency synergy and championed better welfare for those who risk their lives daily so that Nigeria and Nigerians could be secure in their homes, hopeful in their communities, and proud to raise children in a country where safety is not a privilege, but a guarantee.

    “But legislation alone cannot secure our country. We must invest in people, technology, training and strategic partnerships.

    “We must replace short-term firefighting with long-term planning. That is why this Strategic Plan matters; it translates intent into action and action into measurable results.”

    Ribadu, represented by the Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Major General Adamu Laka, said the Strategic Plan was a product of extensive research, inter-agency collaboration and consultations across government ministries, security institutions, academia, civil societies and international partners.

    He said the vision is to establish the National Counter Terrorism Centre as a regional centre of excellence in countering terrorism and violent extremism in West Africa and the Sahel.

  • U.S. warns Nigerians against travelling to give birth for citizenship

    U.S. warns Nigerians against travelling to give birth for citizenship

    The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a strong warning against the practice of “birth tourism,” where individuals travel to the U.S. primarily to give birth so their child can obtain American citizenship.

    In a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, @USinNigeria, on Monday, the mission stated that visa applicants suspected of such intentions would have their applications denied.

    “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,” the post read. “Consular officers will deny your visa application if they have reason to believe this is your intent.”

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    The warning, which included hashtags #VisaWiseTravelSmart and #USVisa, is part of a broader awareness campaign aimed at promoting responsible visa use and upholding immigration regulations.

    A graphic accompanying the post reinforced the message, “We will deny your visa if we believe your primary purpose of travel is to give birth in the United States to get U.S. citizenship for your child. This is not permitted.”

    The U.S. government has previously expressed concern that birth tourism undermines the integrity of its immigration system, warning that any exploitation of birthright citizenship laws will not be tolerated.

  • U.S. deepens trade, investment ties with Nigeria, others

    U.S. deepens trade, investment ties with Nigeria, others

    The United States is intensifying efforts to strengthen economic relations with Nigeria and other African nations through increased trade and private sector investment, according to U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills.

    Speaking in Lagos during a policy address and fireside chat at the Lagos Business School, with the theme: “Toward a Robust U.S.-Nigeria Commercial and Investment Partnership,” Mills outlined Washington’s renewed focus on Africa’s economic potential.

    He emphasised that the new U.S. administration under President Donald Trump is recalibrating its Africa strategy, notably through the State Department’s recently launched commercial diplomacy framework for sub-Saharan Africa — a move the ambassador described as a “new chapter in U.S.-Africa relations.”

    “This strategy is built on a commitment to expanding economic opportunity, deepening commercial engagement, and fostering long-term mutual prosperity,” Mills said.

    Highlighting the significance of Nigeria to U.S. interests, Mills noted that Nigeria is the United States’ second-largest trading partner in Africa, with bilateral trade in goods and services totalling approximately $13 billion in 2024. He also stated that U.S. foreign direct investment in Nigeria reached $6.5 billion in 2023 — a 5.5per cent increase from the previous year.

    “Nigerians represent the largest African diaspora community in the United States. These deep-rooted family, educational, business, and cultural ties underscore Nigeria’s importance to U.S. policy in Africa,” he added.

    As part of his mandate, Mills said his top priority is to enhance trade, investment, and business linkages between both nations. A critical step in achieving that, he explained, is the signing of a Commercial and Investment Partnership (CIP) agreement between the U.S. Department of Commerce and Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment.

    The five-year memorandum of understanding focuses on three priority sectors identified by the Nigerian government: agriculture, the digital economy, and construction.

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    “Under the CIP, both governments will establish working groups for each of these sectors, comprised of U.S. and Nigerian private sector representatives. These groups will address non-tariff trade barriers and regulatory hurdles that have long inhibited trade and investment flows,” Mills said.

    He stressed that both countries are committed to taking concrete steps, informed by private sector input, to remove these barriers and unlock new economic opportunities.

    According to Mills, successful implementation of the CIP will boost job creation, foster innovation, and catalyze further investment. However, he emphasized that progress depends on establishing stable, transparent, and business-friendly regulatory frameworks in both nations.

    He said: “We are ready to partner with Nigeria to strengthen institutions and create a more attractive investment environment. My team and I at the U.S. Mission will continue collaborating with Nigerian federal and state authorities to support vital reforms aimed at increasing U.S. foreign direct investment.”

    Mills concluded by reaffirming America’s long-term commitment: “The United States remains dedicated to deepening our trade relationship with Nigeria and unlocking the full potential of our commercial partnership.”

  • Nigeria, U.S. museums partner on capacity

    Nigeria, U.S. museums partner on capacity

    In a move that sets a precedent for international cultural collaboration, the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA) in Nigeria and the Toledo Museum of Art (TMA) in the U.S. have announced a partnership aimed at promoting Modern and Contemporary African Art and enhancing capacity through knowledge exchange.

    Formalised through a memorandum of understanding signed in November, 2024, the partnership will see both museums – nonprofit, educational institutions with a shared mission of service and impact through art – collaborate on programmes including a training and development exchange, joint curatorial initiatives, and travelling exhibitions from YSMA’s collection to the U.S.

    This collaboration marks YSMA’s first major international partnership and is a bold step in amplifying its reach and influence on the global stage, particularly in deepening U.S.–Nigeria cultural relations through the lens of art and heritage. Recently named the 2025 Best Art Museum in the USA TODAY10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards, TMA is an institution renowned for its history and reputation in museum management, curatorial excellence, and public engagement

    Reflecting on the value of the joint initiative, Jess Castellote, Director of the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art, said:

    Read Also: ‘Museums not mere repositories of artefacts’

    “This partnership is a major milestone in our journey to bring Nigerian art to a broader audience. At the YSMA, we believe in the transformative power of cultural exchange. By working with an esteemed institution like the TMA,we are not only building professional capacity but also affirming the place of African art in the global narrative of creativity, innovation, and heritage.”

    The collaboration will also offer American audiences the opportunity to experience YSMA’s great collection, which spans centuries of African creativity and expression, ranging from ancient cultural artifacts to modern and contemporary works through travelling exhibitions.

    Highlighting the significance of the collaboration, Adam Levine, Director and CEO of TMA said: “At the Toledo Museum of Art, we are proud to engage in a partnership that fosters mutual learning, inclusivity, and global dialogue. This collaboration with YSMA not only enriches our understanding of African art traditions but also deepens our ability to integrate art into the lives of people — both locally and globally. By working together, we strengthen the institutional ties and cultural connections that inspire, educate, and promote access to the

    transformative power of art.”

    Both museums see this collaboration as a model for future cultural diplomacy efforts – one that uses art to bridge continents, enrich communities, and celebrate shared humanity. At a time when global understanding and cross-cultural dialogue are more important than ever, this partnership demonstrates how institutions with shared values can come together to advance mutual learning, preserve cultural heritage, and inspire new generations. By creating platforms for exchange – of ideas, art, and expertise – YSMA and TMA are laying the foundation for deeper, more sustained connections between Nigeria and the United States through the transformative power of art.

  • Russia, U.S. agree to temporary ban on attacks

    Russia, U.S. agree to temporary ban on attacks

    Russia and the U.S. managed to quickly agree on a list of objects that are subject to a temporary moratorium on attacks on energy system during talks in Riyadh on March 25.

    Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made this known on Wednesday.

    “It is thankful to these contacts that were possible to quickly agree on a list of Russian and Ukrainian facilities that fall under the temporary moratorium on attacks on the energy system,’’ Peskov said.

    The moratorium on strikes on Russian and Ukrainian energy systems must be respected, the official said.

    Read Also: U.S. suspends some efforts to counter Russian sabotage

    He added that it was a good step forward and was formed thanks to dialogue between Moscow and Washington.

    “Russian President Vladimir Putin’s order regarding the moratorium is in effect and is being implemented by our armed forces,’’ Peskov said.

    At the same time, Ukraine’s attempts to strike Russian energy facilities were well known, the official said, adding that Kiev has repeatedly demonstrated its inability to negotiate.

    (RIA/NAN)

  • Russian War: U.S., Ukraine negotiators reconvene in Saudi Arabia

    Russian War: U.S., Ukraine negotiators reconvene in Saudi Arabia

    Top Ukrainian and U.S. officials are on Tuesday set to sit down in Jeddah, Saudia Arabia in an effort to get Russia’s war against Ukraine stopped.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would not be there, though he was in the Gulf state on Monday to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

    Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, Defence Minister, Rustem Umerov, Presidential Office Chief, Andrii Yermak and his deputy Pavlo Pallisa will represent Ukraine, Zelensky said.

    On the U.S. side, Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser, Mike Waltz and special envoy Steve Witkoff, who have been working on the Gaza-Israel negotiations, are expected to attend.

    The Ukrainians recently supported an initiative by French President Emmanuel Macron in favour of a partial ceasefire on airstrikes and attacks from the sea, which Russia rejected last week.

    Kiev also wanted an exchange of all prisoners with Russia as a first step.

    Read Also: Ukraine may not survive war with Russia, says Trump

    Washington, on the other hand, wanted a quick and comprehensive ceasefire followed by elections in Kiev.

    Ukraine had been defending itself against a full-scale Russian invasion for more than three years with western support.

    Following a fractious meeting at the Oval Office on Feb. 28, in which U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance castigated Zelensky and called him ungrateful, Washington had paused arms deliveries to Ukraine and access to key intelligence information.

    Trump has been keen to get a minerals’ deal signed with Zelensky, but the Ukrainian president has demanded security guarantees.

    (dpa/NAN)

  • U.S. says Gulf of Mexico now ‘Gulf of America’

    U.S. says Gulf of Mexico now ‘Gulf of America’

    The U.S. Department of the Interior (DoI) on Friday said that the Gulf of Mexico is now to be known as the “Gulf of America” following an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump.

    On Monday, Trump issued an order saying that the body of water on the south coast of the U.S. and east coast of Mexico would be renamed in honour of “American greatness.”

    The name Gulf of Mexico has been in use since the 16th century.

    Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Tuesday said that “for us it will continue to be the Gulf of Mexico and for the entire world it will continue to be the Gulf of Mexico.”

    The DoI also said that North America’s highest mountain, Denali, was also to change name and would now be known by its previous moniker of Mount McKinley.

    The mountain had been officially renamed, at the request of the state of Alaska after years of dispute, in 2015 under then U.S. president Barack Obama.

    The name change was a sign of cultural sensitivity towards the Indigenous population of Alaska, for whom the mountain has had a special significance for centuries.

    The 2015 order changing the mountain’s name to Denali notes that William McKinley, a former U.S. president from Ohio, “never visited, nor did he have any significant historical connection to, the mountain or Alaska.”

    The DoI said that the “name restorations … honor the legacy of American greatness,” echoing Trump’s order.

    “These changes reaffirm the nation’s commitment to preserving the extraordinary heritage of the United States and ensuring that future generations of Americans celebrate the legacy of its heroes and historic assets,” the statement continued.

    The DoI said that the U.S. Board on Geographic Names was “working expeditiously to update the official federal nomenclature in the Geographic Names Information System to reflect these changes, effective immediately for federal use.” (dpa/NAN)