Nigerian

On April 14, we marked a haunting eleven years since the tragic abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok by the extremist group Boko Haram in 2014. This incident did not merely shed light on the depths of human depravity but also highlighted the alarming systemic inadequacies in Nigeria's governance and security frameworks. Why, in a nation rich with resources and talent, do we continue to witness such harrowing events? Despite widespread condemnation and the fervent #BringBackOurGirls campaign, a staggering 90 of those…

As the world becomes more interconnected, the processes governing international travel continue to evolve. In a statement that resonates with both anticipation and caution, the U.S. Embassies in Abuja and Lagos revealed recent changes to the visa application process. For many, these updates may appear as mere bureaucratic adjustments, but for the keen observer, they mark a milestone in diplomatic protocol. “Starting April 22, 2025, all visa applicants in Abuja and Lagos must bring a DS-160 visa…

Meetings of international significance often carry an air of gravitas, yet they are underlined by the profoundly human quest to build bridges. On a Thursday afternoon in Paris, an intriguing convergence of perspectives unfolded as President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria sat down with Massad Boulos, the Senior Advisor for Africa to then U.S. President Donald Trump. Their conversation, intricately woven with aspirations of fortifying economic and security alliances, marked a pivotal moment in Nigeria's engagement with the United…

Amara’s Vision for a Greener Lagos In the bustling megacity of Lagos, where the formidable challenges of pollution, flooding, and overcrowding persist daily, a young visionary named Amara is crafting a brighter, greener future. She isn't just dreaming about change; she's spearheading it with passion and purpose. This story is a testament to the power of youth, creativity, and determination in the fight against climate change. Amara is the ambitious founder of Preserve Our Roots, a dynamic youth-led NGO that champions…

Despite a strong appeal from authorities urging them to reconsider, the organizers of the Take-It-Back Movement are resolute in their plans for a nationwide protest. Scheduled for April 7, this action is not merely a display of dissent; it is a reaction against what they perceive as an overreach by the Bola Tinubu administration. The Nigeria Police Force has denounced the timing of the protest, describing it as “ill-conceived and mischievous,” highlighting its coinciding date with the inaugural National Police Day…

Navigating the Undulating Terrain of Nigeria's Oil Market Last week marked a significant shift in global oil prices, as crude oil saw its value tumble to depths not seen since 2021. Was it former President Trump's imposing import tariffs that sparked this? Perhaps it was the unexpected increase in oil supply by OPEC+ that sent ripples through the market, slicing a hefty $10 from global benchmarks per barrel. And suddenly, by Friday, the crude oil prices had plummeted to $65 a barrel. For many, this…

On the morning of April 2, Judge Irma Schoeman delivered a pivotal ruling that reverberated through the South African judicial system. She articulated a stark reality: prosecutors had not met the burden of providing evidence that could withstand rigorous scrutiny. This verdict has left many questioning the integrity of the prosecution's strategy and the implications of such a decision. The Timothy Omotoso trial, a case that has captured national attention, delves into the troubling underbelly of religious manipulation and…

In a decisive move, President Bola Tinubu has announced the dissolution of the board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC). This sweeping change includes the removal of Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari and board chairperson Pius Akinyelure, signaling a significant shift in Nigeria's approach to its vital petroleum sector. According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s actions affect all board members appointed alongside Akinyelure and Kyari back in November 2023. This board overhaul can be…

Nigerian health officials have issued alarming reports of thousands of suspected Lassa fever cases emerging across 33 states from January to March 2025. The gravity of the situation is underscored by the somber reality that over a hundred individuals have lost their lives to this virulent disease. As this outbreak unfolds, one cannot help but ponder, how many more lives hang in the balance? In response to this escalating crisis, the Nigerian Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has swiftly activated the Lassa…

Elumelu Joins Prestigious IMF Advisory Council The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recently welcomed Tony Elumelu, a prominent figure in the African business landscape, to its Advisory Council on Entrepreneurship and Growth. By joining this council, Elumelu is not only expanding his influence but is also seated amongst a group of global luminaries. Alongside him are distinguished professionals like Professor Ufuk Akcigit from the University of Chicago, HRH Ambassador Reema Bandar Al-Saud…