Author: James Obasi

President Donald Trump on Tuesday unveiled expanded entry restrictions affecting foreign nationals from 24 countries, citing what he described as “persistent and serious shortcomings in screening, vetting, and information-sharing” that pose risks to U.S. national security and public safety. The decision was announced in a fact sheet released 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.” According to the document, the new proclamation imposes a full suspension on eight countries and a partial suspension on 16 others. The measures affect both immigrants and nonimmigrants holding B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas. The administration said the action is aimed at preventing the entry of individuals for whom the United States lacks sufficient information to properly assess potential risks, while also strengthening enforcement of immigration laws and advancing national security goals.   Countries Under Full Suspension The full suspension applies to the following, based on security concerns, high visa overstay rates, ongoing conflict, terrorism activity, or failure to accept repatriated nationals: Burkina Faso Laos Mali Niger Sierra Leone South Sudan Syria Travel documents issued or endorsed by the Palestinian Authority   Countries Under Partial Suspension (Applies to immigrants and nonimmigrants on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas) Angola Antigua and Barbuda Benin Côte d’Ivoire Dominica Gabon The Gambia Malawi Mauritania Nigeria Senegal Tanzania Tonga Zambia Zimbabwe In the case of Turkmenistan, restrictions on nonimmigrant visas were lifted after progress in identity management and information sharing, though immigrant entry remains suspended due to unresolved concerns.   Regional Breakdown Africa: Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Angola, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe Asia: Laos, Syria, Turkmenistan Caribbean/Oceania: Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Tonga Middle East/Palestinian Territories: Palestinian Authority–issued travel documents   Background and Broader Context The fact sheet emphasizes that the restrictions are necessary to protect U.S. citizens by limiting entry from locations where reliable risk assessment is difficult. The move follows a series of immigration actions taken during Trump’s second term, including expanded deportation efforts and heightened scrutiny of migrants from countries classified as security concerns. Earlier executive orders had already banned or restricted entry from several countries, while directing U.S. agencies to review compliance with new screening and information-sharing requirements. Officials say the latest proclamation reflects the outcome of those reviews and reinforces the administration’s hardline stance on migration and border security.   What Full and Partial Restrictions Mean Full suspension: Generally blocks entry and halts most new immigrant and nonimmigrant visas, with limited exceptions such as diplomats or lawful permanent residents. Partial suspension: Restricts specific visa categories, tightens vetting procedures, shortens visa validity, and imposes additional screening requirements before entry is approved.

The President of the Association of Urological Surgeons of Nigeria (NAUS), Prof. Nuhu Dakum, has raised concerns over a rising number of cancer cases affecting the bladder and testicles, noting that these conditions, once considered rare, are increasingly being seen in clinics nationwide. He highlighted that while prostate cancer remains the most common cancer and leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men in Nigeria, cases of bladder and testicular cancers are emerging as a significant public health concern. Nigeria reportedly records around 127,000 new cancer cases each year, resulting in approximately 80,000 deaths, according to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate. Globally, the World Health Organization predicts over 35 million new cancer cases by 2050, representing a 77% increase from the estimated 20 million in 2022. Speaking on trends in urological cancers, Dakum, a professor of surgery at the University of Jos, said the rising incidence of bladder and testicular cancers is worrying, although exact statistics are not yet available. “We are increasingly seeing cancers of other urological organs, such as the bladder and testes, compared to what we used to encounter. The numbers are significant and growing,” he said. He explained that testicular cancer develops when malignant cells form in one or both testicles, which are the walnut-shaped glands responsible for producing sperm and testosterone. Bladder cancer, on the other hand, typically starts in the lining of the bladder, a small hollow organ that stores urine. Both cancers, he noted, require timely medical attention, although testicular cancer is highly treatable and often curable. While prostate cancer continues to dominate urological diagnoses in Nigeria, Dakum observed a steady rise in cases over the last five years, attributing the increase to heightened awareness and improved diagnostic facilities. “The positive development is that more cases are being detected earlier, allowing for effective treatment and even potential cures. Previously, most patients presented at very advanced stages when options were limited,” he said. Dakum urged men not to wait for symptoms to appear before seeking medical evaluation, recommending the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test for early detection. He stressed that routine check-ups are especially important for men with a family history of prostate cancer. On risk factors, he noted that age, race, family history, and genetics remain the primary determinants for urological cancers, with black men being particularly at risk. For prevention, Dakum encouraged Nigerians to adopt healthier lifestyles. “A balanced diet low in fats and animal protein, rich in fruits and vegetables, combined with regular exercise, supports overall health and prostate health in particular. Early detection remains crucial for successful outcomes,” he advised.  

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has restated his administration’s dedication to promoting innovation and supporting individuals and groups working to strengthen the state’s food security system. The governor gave the assurance on Sunday at the 2025 Lagos Food Festival held at Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, themed “Taste Without Borders.” He noted that over the past 11 months, the state government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, has implemented several interventions and empowerment programmes that have positively impacted agribusiness entrepreneurs and stakeholders across the food value chain. According to Sanwo-Olu, the ministry has recorded significant achievements this year by empowering numerous entrepreneurs, as part of ongoing efforts to provide food business innovators and aggregators with opportunities to grow, become self-reliant, and thrive. He added that the festival also serves as a family-friendly platform where residents can experience and celebrate diverse food cultures and cuisines across Lagos. The governor highlighted the role of food as a powerful medium for storytelling, creativity, and cultural expression, noting that the event opens doors for young talents, supports businesses, and drives transformation within the sector. Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms Abisola Olusanya, described the festival—now in its fifth edition—as a true reflection of Lagos’ identity, particularly its rich culinary heritage blended with entertainment. She explained that the festival provides an avenue for food entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and expand their businesses beyond local boundaries. Olusanya added that Lagos’ diversity and multicultural nature are well expressed through food, making the Lagos Food Festival an ideal platform to celebrate all actors within the state’s food value chain. She further noted that the initiative has helped spotlight emerging talents over the years, especially through the governor’s direct engagement with food entrepreneurs, which has inspired growth and innovation across the sector.

Nigerian billionaire and BUA Group Chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu, honoured long-serving employees of the conglomerate with cash gifts in recognition of their dedication and years of service. The rewards were presented on Friday, December 13, 2025, during the BUA Night-of-Excellence Long-Service Awards held in Lagos. Speaking at the event, Rabiu praised the commitment and resilience of the company’s workforce, calling employees the backbone of BUA Group’s success and growth. He emphasised that recognising loyalty and hard work is a core principle of the organisation, especially amid rising living costs and economic uncertainty. “Today is a very special occasion. We are not just celebrating long service, we are celebrating loyalty, commitment, resilience, and the extraordinary power of people,” Rabiu said. “No matter how big BUA becomes, its true strength has always been its people.” He added that the company’s achievements were built on the dedication of its employees, describing them as partners in BUA’s legacy. “You built the factories, developed the systems, managed the challenges, and defended the brand. Without you, there would be no BUA story to celebrate. BUA has never been just a business; it has always been a family, and each of you is a partner in this legacy.” Rabiu highlighted that the cash gifts were a gesture of appreciation, not a full measure of the employees’ contributions. “This token is not a payment for your sacrifice; no amount of money can fully reward the years of dedication, late nights, early mornings, personal sacrifices, and passion you have invested in this company. It is simply our way of saying, we see you, we value you, we appreciate you.” He concluded by assuring staff that as BUA grows, they would share in its success. “As BUA grows, you will grow. As BUA advances, you will advance. This legacy belongs to all of us. Thank you.”

The Lagos State Government has announced the commencement of the installation of over 22,000 solar-powered streetlights across the state under the Light Up Lagos Solar Streetlight Initiative. The project is being executed by the Lagos State Electrification Agency (LSEA) with oversight from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, according to a statement issued by the Deputy Director, Public Affairs at LSEA, Ololade Agboola. The agency explained that the initiative is part of efforts to enhance night-time visibility, improve public safety, and promote energy sustainability. It noted that for decades, public lighting in Lagos relied heavily on grid electricity and diesel-powered generators, a system described as costly, unreliable, and environmentally damaging. Speaking on the project, the General Manager of LSEA, Kamaldeen Balogun, said the transition to solar-powered lighting aligns with the state’s wider environmental and energy-efficiency objectives. “This project underscores Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to building a cleaner, greener, and safer Lagos,” Balogun said. “By reducing dependence on fossil fuels and harnessing solar energy, we are illuminating the city while safeguarding the environment for future generations.” He added that the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, led by Commissioner Biodun Ogunleye, is providing policy guidance to ensure the initiative aligns with the state’s long-term renewable energy strategy. Ogunleye also described the project as a collective step towards sustainability, noting that it goes beyond road lighting to improving safety, driving development, and supporting a cleaner environment for residents. The LSEA disclosed that several major routes have already been fully lit, including Governor’s Road at the Alausa Secretariat in Ikeja, Mobolaji Johnson Way, Herbert Macaulay Way in Yaba, Bode Thomas Road in Surulere, Muritala Muhammed Way in Ebute-Metta, Jibowu, Market Street in Oyingbo, Iddo, Eko Bridge, Marina Bridge, Governor’s Road in Ikotun, and the Lekki–Ikoyi Link Bridge. Installations are also ongoing along Ikorodu Road from Anthony to Fadeyi, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, the Ikeja Bridge, Western Avenue, the Gbagada–Oshodi Expressway, Alapere/Ogudu, Agric–Ikorodu, and additional sections of Ikorodu Road. Work is also scheduled to extend to the Lekki–Epe Expressway. Balogun stated that the deployment is being carried out in phases to ensure statewide coverage. “Each light installed represents progress and improved safety for our communities. We are taking a systematic approach to ensure no area is left in darkness,” he said. The agency added that the project is being fully designed and implemented by LSEA personnel, a strategy aimed at maintaining high quality standards and enabling efficient in-house maintenance. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had earlier indicated that within a year, most streetlights in Lagos would be solar-powered. Speaking at the NAPE 2024 Conference in November through the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Ogunleye, the governor said the state had already committed to installing 22,000 solar streetlights. He noted that the solar-powered systems are designed to function for up to two to three days without direct sunlight, underscoring the government’s commitment to sustainable and reliable public lighting across Lagos.  

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has once again slashed its petrol gantry price, reducing the ex-depot rate from N828 to N699 per litre. Real-time market data from Petroleumprice.ng on Friday showed the refinery implemented a significant downward review, cutting the Premium Motor Spirit benchmark price by N129 per litre  a 15.58% reduction. A refinery official, who requested anonymity because he was not authorised to speak publicly, confirmed the adjustment, stating, “The refinery has reduced petrol gantry price to N699 per litre.” The new price took effect on December 11, 2025, marking the refinery’s 20th petrol price adjustment this year. The latest reduction comes just five days after the refinery’s Chairman, Aliko Dangote, reaffirmed his commitment to keeping domestic fuel prices “reasonable and competitive” despite global market volatility and persistent smuggling along Nigeria’s borders. Following a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu on December 6, Dangote said prices would continue to decline as the refinery scales up production and competes with imported products. “Prices are going down. The reason why prices have to go down is that we have to also compete with imports,” he said. “Smuggling has reduced, though not completely. There is still a lot of smuggling because the price in Nigeria is about 55 per cent lower than in neighbouring countries.” He added that petroleum products, including diesel and petrol, “will continue to be sold in the market at a very reasonable price,” noting that the $20 billion facility is a long-term investment rather than a quick-profit venture. Market monitors on Petroleumprice.ng also recorded fresh reductions across several private depots following the refinery’s latest review. According to the platform, Sigmund Depot reduced its ex-depot price by N4 to N824 per litre, while Bulk Strategic made a marginal N3 cut. TechnoOil implemented one of the steepest reductions with a N15 decrease. Other depots such as A.A. Rano, NIPCO, and Aiteo were also observed making slight adjustments as the market aligned with the new Dangote pricing template.

President Donald Trump has unveiled a new initiative offering expedited US visas to wealthy foreigners willing to pay at least $1 million. Dubbed the “Trump Gold Card,” the program promises a “direct path to citizenship for all qualified and vetted applicants,” Trump announced on social media, adding that it would help American companies retain top global talent. The Gold Card visa is available to individuals who can demonstrate that their presence will provide a “substantial benefit” to the United States. Businesses sponsoring employees under the scheme are required to pay $2 million, with additional fees applicable. A premium “Platinum” version offering special tax benefits will also be available for $5 million. Applicants must also pay a non-refundable $15,000 processing fee before their submission is reviewed, and extra charges may apply depending on individual circumstances. The program comes amid a broader US crackdown on immigration, including increased work visa fees and deportations of undocumented migrants. According to the official scheme details, the Gold Card offers US residency “in record time,” specifically targeting highly skilled professionals. Trump emphasized that the program is designed for productive individuals. “The people that can pay $5 million, they’re going to create jobs. It’s going to sell like crazy. It’s a bargain,” he said. The Gold Card has faced criticism from some Democrats who argue that it unfairly favors wealthy applicants. Trump has likened the program to green cards, which allow permanent residency in the US and eligibility for citizenship after five years, but stressed that the Gold Card is aimed at high-level professionals who will significantly contribute to the US economy. The announcement comes alongside other strict immigration measures, including a pause on applications from 19 countries under the US travel ban and a review of asylum approvals granted during the previous administration. Additionally, in September, Trump introduced a $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa applicants applying from abroad, a move that caused concern among international students and technology firms.  

Ghana has deported three Israeli nationals in response to the alleged mistreatment and “unjustified deportation” of three Ghanaian travellers by Israeli authorities. The action was confirmed in a statement released on Wednesday by the Ghanaian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and shared on X by Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Sam Okudzeto. According to the statement, the three Israelis arrived in Accra earlier in the day but were immediately expelled after Ghanaian officials determined that Israel had unfairly targeted and traumatised Ghanaian travellers. “Following the ill-treatment and unjustified deportation of three Ghanaian nationals by Israeli authorities, the Government of Ghana has been compelled to respond by deporting three Israelis who arrived in Ghana earlier today,” the statement said. The ministry noted that the Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Israeli Embassy in Accra was summoned, as the ambassador is currently out of the country. Both governments have since agreed to seek an “amicable resolution” to the diplomatic dispute. Ghana reiterated its commitment to protecting the dignity of its citizens and those of other nations, stating, “Ghana deeply values relations with all friendly countries and expects our citizens to be treated with dignity and respect, just as other governments expect Ghana to treat their nationals.” The incident follows an earlier statement from Accra condemning the treatment of its citizens at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport. Ghanaian authorities reported that seven travellers, including four members of a parliamentary delegation attending an international cybersecurity conference in Tel Aviv, were detained for hours without cause on December 7. While the four lawmakers were released after more than five hours following diplomatic intervention, the remaining three travellers were deported and have since returned to Ghana. Accra described Israel’s actions as “provocative, unacceptable, and inconsistent” with the longstanding relations between the two countries, which have lasted more than six decades. The ministry rejected Israel’s claim that the incident resulted from alleged non-cooperation by the Ghanaian Embassy in Tel Aviv, insisting that its mission had fully complied with international protocols. Prior to the retaliatory deportations, Ghana had warned that it was considering reciprocal measures. Israeli authorities have yet to issue a public response to Ghana’s action.

A non-governmental organisation, Health Promotion for People With Addiction and Suicide (HEPPWAS), has collaborated with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, the Rotary Club of Yenagoa City Centre, and Damaris Hotel and Suites to educate students on the dangers of drug abuse. More than 100 senior secondary school students of Government Secondary School, Obogoro, took part in the awareness programme on Tuesday. The event, themed “Sensitisation on Substance Use and Its Impacts on Youths’ Brain,” focused on the physical and behavioural consequences of drug misuse. The President and Chief Executive Officer of HEPPWAS, Prof. Izebeloko Jack Ibe, who is also a professor of Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing at Niger Delta University, explained the damaging effects of drugs on the brain. Ibe, an indigene of Obogoro community, encouraged the students to pursue excellence despite challenges, noting that the brain does not regenerate once damaged. She emphasised that certain behavioural issues in young people, such as stubbornness and disrespect, are often linked to substance abuse. The NDLEA Assistant State Commander, Drug Demand Reduction Unit, Mr. Godwin Erepa, highlighted substances such as ice, fentanyl, cannabis, and local gin (ogogoro), warning that drug misuse contributes to crime, domestic violence, and other social problems. Another Obogoro native, Dr. Pawei Igodo, also advised the students to avoid drugs and concentrate on their education, reinforcing the harmful neurological effects of substance abuse. HEPPWAS Executive Secretary, Mr. Ben Ibe, noted that an estimated 14.3 million Nigerians use drugs, a situation he said is contributing to rising insecurity nationwide. The owner of Damaris Hotel and Suites, Dr. Boma Spero-Jack—who also serves as a security adviser to the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri—urged the students to take the teachings seriously. The Principal of Government Secondary School, Obogoro, Mrs. Dick Agbeyen, expressed gratitude to the organisers, suggesting that drug education should be formally included in the school curriculum. A student, Awake Dufaye Daniel, said the sensitisation programme was eye-opening, adding that he now understands the effects of drug abuse and misuse on the brain.

Amid rising incidents of kidnapping and violent attacks along the Owerri–Aba Expressway, the Imo State government has sealed a mortuary and hotel in Umuhu, Ngor Okpala Local Government Area, over alleged links to criminal activities. The Imo State Police Command has also declared the owner of the two facilities, Stanley Morocco Oparaugo, wanted for allegedly allowing his premises to be used as hideouts for kidnappers and other violent offenders.This was disclosed in a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye. On Saturday, the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, visited the mortuary and hotel alongside the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Chioma Egu; the Chief Pathologist of the Imo State Specialist Hospital, Dr. Ibeaja Okechukwu; members of the Ngor Okpala Vigilante Group led by Henry Ikpe; and the Chairman of Ngor Okpala LGA, Mrs. Chika Ibekwe. The facilities are located in Umuhu autonomous community, after the Ihitte junction. According to Okoye, officers found decomposed and mutilated bodies inside the mortuary, heightening suspicions of organ-harvesting activities.He added that forensic experts documented and secured evidence gathered during the inspection, assuring the public that all persons involved would be traced and prosecuted. The statement explained that the police team was acting on credible intelligence regarding Oparaugo, who is currently on the run. The suspect’s hotel and private mortuary were inspected and found to have allegedly been used by kidnappers and violent criminals. The discovery of mutilated corpses in poor conditions further intensified concerns about illegal organ harvesting. Following the findings, both facilities were sealed on the orders of the state government. A search was also carried out at the suspect’s residence, where significant exhibits were recovered.The statement stressed that ongoing investigations would ensure that every accomplice is identified and brought to justice. The police command added that additional security personnel have been deployed along the Owerri–Aba Expressway to ensure safer travel during the festive season.