Author: Lifestyle & Wellness Desk

A senior US immigration official is set to leave Minneapolis, signaling a possible shift in the White House’s approach following the fatal shooting of a second resident by federal officers over the weekend. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino and several immigration agents are departing, while former “border tsar” Tom Homan will take over on-the-ground operations in the city after the shooting of Alex Pretti on Saturday heightened tensions. The move may indicate the administration’s intent to scale back aggressive federal actions amid mounting criticism. Despite the change in personnel, online monitoring shows immigration raids in Minneapolis have continued. Bovino, who led the operation when Pretti—a bystander reportedly filming agents—was shot multiple times, previously claimed Pretti intended to “massacre” federal officers. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated agents fired in self-defence after Pretti allegedly resisted disarmament while holding a handgun. Witnesses, local officials, and Pretti’s family have disputed this account, saying he held only a phone. Pretti’s parents have criticised the administration for spreading “sickening lies” about the incident. Bovino has been a prominent figure in the Trump administration’s hardline immigration enforcement, regularly documenting and promoting raids. Homan, who reports directly to the president, is also a strong advocate of strict immigration measures and previously worked on immigration and deportations during the Obama administration. Tensions in Minneapolis remain high. George Cordero, a resident of St. Paul, said, “A lot of people aren’t able to work right now, they aren’t able to leave their house, they’re afraid.” Pretti is the second Minneapolis resident shot and killed by federal immigration agents since their arrival; Renee Nicole Good was killed by ICE on January 7. While some reports suggested Bovino had been removed, DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin denied this, calling him “a key part of the president’s team.” Public anger has largely focused on Bovino and the thousands of federal agents—including ICE personnel—deployed to the city. Pretti’s sister, Micayla, described her brother as “my hero” and questioned how many more lives must be lost before action is taken. Local residents, including retired nurse Carol Engelheart, expressed fear and called for civic action to protect constitutional rights. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said it is the president’s “hope and wish” that the chaos in Minneapolis ends. Trump also spoke with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, both of whom have opposed the federal immigration operations. The discussions were described as constructive, with Trump and Walz agreeing to explore reducing the number of federal agents in the state while allowing the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to conduct an independent investigation into Pretti’s death. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham praised Homan’s deployment as “a very smart move,” while Senator John Curtis called for a “transparent, independent investigation” to hold those responsible accountable. Memorials for Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, and protests against ICE operations have continued, including a demonstration outside the hotel where Bovino was reportedly staying. Additional vigils and protests are planned in the coming days.

The Northern Nigeria Youth Leaders Forum has announced that it has raised N200 million to purchase the All Progressives Congress presidential nomination form for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election. The disclosure was made on Monday during a high-level youth leadership and stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, where the group also formally endorsed Tinubu for a second term. The endorsement, the forum said, was based on the need for policy continuity, consolidation of ongoing reforms, and sustained national development. At the meeting, leaders of the forum presented the N200m cheque to the Director-General of the Tinubu Support Groups, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai. A communiqué issued after the meeting and signed by the forum’s National Leader, Murtala Gamji, and Director of Operations, Agbana John, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to peaceful, issue-based youth mobilisation across Northern Nigeria, with emphasis on democratic participation, national unity, and responsible civic engagement. According to the communiqué, the gathering was convened to review national progress under the Renewed Hope Agenda, strengthen youth involvement in governance, formally endorse President Tinubu for a second term, and launch the Renewed Hope Ambassadors initiative. The forum resolved to promote structured youth inclusion through sustained advocacy for youth representation in policy discussions, governance processes, and development programmes at the federal, state, and local levels. It also agreed to institutionalise the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Platform as a strategic network for policy advocacy, grassroots awareness, leadership development, and community engagement. In addition, the group pledged to deepen partnerships with government institutions, development partners, traditional and community leaders, and the private sector to advance youth-focused initiatives in leadership, entrepreneurship, civic education, and social stability. The communiqué further emphasised a commitment to peace and responsible political conduct, rejecting violence, misinformation, and divisive narratives. Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Gamji said President Tinubu’s performance warranted a second term. He stated that, with the backing of the forum’s board of trustees, grand patrons, and the leadership of the Tinubu Support Groups, the organisation decided to support the President with N200m toward the purchase of the APC nomination form when it becomes available. Gamji added that the forum believes in national unity and in the understanding that Southern Nigeria should complete its eight-year tenure before power returns to the North. He noted that youths across religious and ethnic lines in the 19 northern states are united in their support for the President, citing his efforts in the areas of security, agriculture, and infrastructure.

A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered Airtel Networks Limited to pay N210m in damages for the unauthorised use of a musical work titled “Nigeria Go Survive.” Delivering judgment on Monday in suit no. FHC/L/CS/1822/2022, Justice Ibrahim Kala ruled in favour of the song’s producer, Veno Marioghae Mbanefo, holding that Airtel’s use of the work without licence or authorisation constituted copyright infringement. The judge declared that Airtel’s use of the song, or any substantial part of it, for advertising, promotional, and telemarketing purposes to its subscribers without the consent of the copyright owner amounted to a breach of Mbanefo’s rights. Justice Kala awarded N200m as general damages for the infringement and an additional N10m as cost of action, bringing the total sum to N210m. In addition to the monetary award, the court granted both mandatory and perpetual injunctions against the telecommunications company. The judge ordered Airtel, its agents, and affiliates to immediately stop reproducing or using the musical work for advertising, business, telemarketing, or promotional activities. The company was also permanently restrained from any future unauthorised use of the song. Mbanefo, through her legal team led by Clement Onwvenwunor (SAN), had asked the court to declare that Airtel’s use of the song without her consent or proper credit violated her rights under the Copyright Act. She also sought damages and, in the alternative, an order directing Airtel to account for profits allegedly earned from the infringement under the supervision of the Nigerian Communications Commission. Airtel, represented by a legal team led by Babatunde Amoo, had urged the court to dismiss the suit. However, Justice Kala, after evaluating the evidence and arguments presented, held that the plaintiff had successfully proved her case on the balance of probability. While the court declined the request for an account of profits, it upheld Mbanefo’s claims on copyright infringement, damages, and injunctive relief.

The All Progressives Congress has rejected claims that Vice President Kashim Shettima may be replaced as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the reports as false and misleading. In a statement issued on Monday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, said President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima remain united and fully committed to driving the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Morka said the party had observed increasing media speculation about the possibility of replacing Vice President Shettima ahead of the 2027 polls, noting that the rumours recently escalated with the mention of specific individuals as potential replacements. He stated categorically that such reports are entirely speculative, untrue, and without any factual basis, stressing that the President and Vice President continue to work closely in implementing reforms aimed at economic transformation, shared prosperity, and improved living standards for Nigerians. Morka also urged media organisations to refrain from promoting rumours and unverified claims designed to create confusion and discord in the political environment. He noted that existing laws and electoral regulations still prohibit political activities at this time, adding that the party remains focused on supporting the Tinubu–Shettima administration in delivering on its agenda and consolidating reforms already impacting the economy and citizens’ welfare. The ruling party further cautioned party leaders and government officials against encouraging unnecessary speculation. It called on ministers, senior government officials, and party leaders to remain focused on their core responsibilities of service to the government and the party, and to contribute to the continued success of President Tinubu’s leadership and the administration’s objectives.

The Lagos State Government is set to launch the Measles-Rubella and Routine Immunisation Campaign on Tuesday. The week-long initiative will run until February 5, 2026, reaching all Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas across the state. The campaign, which will be officially flagged off by the wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, aligns with national and global immunisation goals and aims to protect children and adolescents from vaccine-preventable diseases. Dr Ibrahim Mustafa, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, highlighted the importance of routine immunisation in preventing diseases such as polio, tuberculosis, whooping cough, diphtheria, and cervical cancer. “This integrated campaign is a vital public health intervention targeting measles, rubella, and other preventable diseases,” he said. “Lagos State is committed to ensuring that every eligible child and adolescent is reached, regardless of location or socioeconomic background. The vaccines provided are safe, effective, and completely free.” He added that consistent immunisation helps reduce child morbidity and mortality, boosts school attendance, and supports long-term social and economic development. “Immunisation is one of the most cost-effective public health investments. We call on parents, guardians, community and religious leaders, as well as school authorities, to support this campaign by ensuring children and adolescents receive their vaccines,” Mustafa said. The campaign will be carried out with assistance from key development partners, including the Federal Ministry of Health, National Primary Health Care Development Agency, World Health Organization, United Nations Children’s Fund, and other immunisation partners.

The price of gold has surged past $5,000 an ounce for the first time, extending a historic rally that saw the precious metal climb more than 60% in 2025. The rise comes amid mounting financial and geopolitical uncertainty, including tensions between the US and NATO over Greenland. Market concerns have also been fueled by US President Donald Trump’s trade policies. On Saturday, he warned he could impose a 100% tariff on Canada if it secures a trade deal with China. Gold, along with other precious metals, is often seen as a safe-haven asset, attracting investors during periods of instability. Silver, for example, topped $100 an ounce on Friday, building on its nearly 150% gain last year. Other factors boosting demand include persistent inflation, a weaker US dollar, purchases by central banks, and expectations that the US Federal Reserve may cut interest rates again this year. Global conflicts, including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, and Washington’s seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, have also contributed to the uptick in gold prices. Part of gold’s enduring appeal lies in its scarcity. Only around 216,265 tonnes have ever been mined, enough to fill three to four Olympic-sized swimming pools. The majority of this has been extracted since 1950 as mining technology advanced and new deposits were discovered. The US Geological Survey estimates that roughly 64,000 tonnes remain in underground reserves, though production is expected to plateau in the coming years. Nicholas Frappell, global head of institutional markets at ABC Refinery, explained: “When you own gold, it’s not tied to someone else’s debt like a bond, or the performance of a company like equities. It’s a strong diversifier in an uncertain world.” Gold had a remarkable year in 2025, posting its largest annual gain since 1979 as investors turned to precious metals. Heightened concerns over Trump’s trade policies and worries about overvalued AI stocks repeatedly pushed gold to new record levels. Susannah Streeter, chief investment strategist at Wealth Club, said gold “seems to know no bounds” amid ongoing political uncertainty, adding that trade tensions with Canada had “unnerved investors” and contributed to the rally. Lower interest rates are also supporting gold’s appeal. When rates fall, returns on investments like government bonds decline, prompting investors to seek alternatives such as gold and silver. The US Federal Reserve is widely expected to reduce its main interest rate twice this year. Ahmad Assiri, research strategist at Pepperstone, noted, “It’s inversely correlated because the opportunity cost of keeping money in bonds is no longer worth it, so investors turn to gold.” Central banks have also been active buyers, adding hundreds of tons of bullion to their reserves, reflecting a broader shift away from reliance on the US dollar. While investment remains the primary driver, gold continues to hold cultural significance. In India, for example, it is traditionally purchased during festivals like Diwali as a symbol of wealth and good fortune. Indian households hold around $3.8 trillion of gold, equivalent to nearly 89% of the country’s GDP. China, the world’s largest consumer of gold, also sees seasonal spikes in demand during celebrations such as Chinese New Year, believed to bring prosperity and luck. Despite the ongoing rally, analysts caution that gold remains sensitive to news events. Frappell warned that “unexpected positive developments in the world could weigh on prices,” highlighting the market’s reactive, news-driven nature.

Thousands of files leaked by a whistleblower at Interpol reveal the scale of Russia’s alleged misuse of the international policing agency to target critics abroad. The documents show that Moscow has used Interpol’s wanted notices to seek the arrest of political opponents, business figures, and journalists, claiming they committed crimes. Analysis of the data indicates that over the past decade, Russia has generated more complaints to Interpol’s independent complaints unit than any other country—three times more than Turkey—and that more of Russia’s requests have been overturned than those of any other nation. After Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Interpol introduced additional checks on Moscow’s activity to curb potential misuse. However, the leaked files suggest these measures were insufficient, and the whistleblower said some stricter controls were quietly lifted in 2025. Interpol stated that it helps arrest thousands of serious criminals annually and has strengthened safeguards against misuse, acknowledging the serious impact a red notice can have on an individual’s life. A red notice alerts all 196 member countries to locate and detain a person, while a red diffusion is a similar request sent to select countries. Russian businessman Igor Pestrikov, named in a red diffusion after fleeing Russia in June 2022 and seeking asylum in France, described the personal toll: blocked bank accounts, difficulties renting property, and constant stress. For safety, his daughter and ex-wife relocated abroad. Pestrikov had been a major shareholder in privatized metals companies and resisted pressure from Russian ministers to restrict his exports to the domestic market—a decision he says was both ethical and financial. He believes this, along with his Ukrainian wife, led to his companies being nationalized and an investigation into alleged financial crimes. After discovering the red diffusion, Pestrikov challenged it through Interpol’s Commission for the Control of Files (CCF), which ruled the case predominantly political and overturned the request, citing “generic and formulaic” claims from Russia and inadequate explanation of the alleged offenses. The leaked documents show that over 11 years, Russia has been the subject of more complaints than any other country. At least 700 people wanted by Russia approached the CCF, with over 400 having their notices overturned—more than any other nation. British barrister Ben Keith, who has represented clients on Russian red notices, said that Russia is a major source of abusive requests and that Interpol’s measures have often failed to prevent misuse. Lawyer Yuriy Nemets noted that even after extra scrutiny of Russian requests following the Ukraine invasion, critics of the war have continued to be targeted under ordinary criminal charges. The leak also includes thousands of internal Interpol messages showing informal channels used by Moscow to track individuals abroad, circumventing the formal red notice system. Among these is a message regarding journalist Armen Aramyan, who fled Russia after reporting on protests supporting Alexei Navalny. Russia asked authorities in Armenia and Germany for any information on his whereabouts, sidestepping official Interpol procedures. Other messages reveal tracking requests on allies of Navalny and high-profile defectors, even while additional vetting measures were in place. Internal Interpol reports from 2024 and 2025 express “serious concerns” about Russia’s repeated violations, yet the majority of its requests still passed initial checks, and half of complaints received by the CCF were overturned. Attempts to place notices on International Criminal Court judges and prosecutors in 2024 were blocked, but discussions over easing restrictions on Russia continued, apparently in Moscow’s favor. Legal experts agree more must be done to prevent abuse. Ben Keith suggested suspending countries that repeatedly misuse the system, while Pestrikov warned that Russia can “with the push of a button” accuse anyone of a crime, enabling persecution globally.

President Bola Tinubu is set to leave Abuja today (Monday) on an official state visit to the Republic of Türkiye. The President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday. He said the visit is intended to deepen the longstanding friendly relations between Nigeria and Türkiye, while identifying new opportunities for collaboration in areas such as security, education, social development, innovation, and aviation. The trip also serves as a reciprocal gesture following the state visit to Nigeria by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in October 2021. During the visit, President Tinubu and Turkish officials will hold high-level political and diplomatic talks focused on shared interests in finance, communication, trade, and investment. According to the statement, the programme includes meetings between senior officials of both countries and the signing of memoranda of understanding covering fields such as scientific research, energy, technical cooperation, media and communications, military collaboration, and protocol matters. A business forum will also be held to connect investors from Nigeria and Türkiye and explore mutually beneficial opportunities. Members of the President’s delegation include the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar; the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN); the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd); and the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Jimi Benson. Others on the delegation are the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim; the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; the Minister of Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; and the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Mohammed Mohammed. President Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria at the end of the visit.

Nigerian content creators make up the bulk of Africa’s largest live streamers in 2026, highlighting the country’s rising dominance in the continent’s digital entertainment space. Figures from Twitch and Kick indicate that Nigerians occupy most slots in Africa’s top 10 streamers, fueled by high audience engagement, celebrity partnerships, and early acceptance of live streaming as a viable career. This growth reflects a wider shift in Africa’s streaming industry, where live content has expanded beyond gaming into a rapidly growing, multi-million-dollar sector. Although South Africa once led Africa’s streaming scene, the centre of gravity has shifted to West Africa—especially Nigeria—following increased global exposure driven by visits from international streaming stars such as Kai Cenat and IShowSpeed. The 2026 rankings are based on combined followership across Twitch and Kick, capturing evolving platform trends across the continent. While Twitch remains dominant in West and Southern Africa, Kick has gained ground among up-and-coming creators due to its creator-friendly incentives. Using a combined metric offers a more accurate measure of lasting influence, emphasising loyal audiences over short-lived virality. Nigeria features prominently through creators such as Carter Efe, Shank Comics, Enzo (Rynenzo), Peller, Ojo, and Lord Lamba, forming the largest national group among Africa’s top streamers. Carter Efe leads the Nigerian pack with over 560,000 followers, making him the most followed Africa-based streamer on Twitch. His mix of street culture, celebrity conversations, and interactive variety content has connected African pop culture with global streaming audiences. Shank Comics remains a major force, having been the first Nigerian to surpass 100,000 followers on Twitch. His appearance at Kai Cenat’s Streamer University and a $10,000 win from MrBeast boosted his international profile and strengthened Nigeria’s standing in the global streaming community. Gaming-centric streamer Enzo represents a new wave of Nigerian creators, growing his audience through consistency and technical skill rather than viral trends. Peller’s early move to Kick, along with his role as the platform’s first Nigerian brand ambassador, further illustrates how strategic platform choices are reshaping Africa’s streaming ecosystem. Despite Nigeria’s strong showing, the overall continental leader is Morocco’s Ilyas El Maliki. South Africa and Egypt also retain representation among the top 10 through established creators. Africa’s Biggest Streamers in 2026 (So Far):Ilyas El Maliki (Morocco) – 847,000+ followersCarter Efe (Nigeria) – 560,000+ followersShank Comics (Nigeria) – 258,000+ followersEnzo (Nigeria) – 204,000+ followersPeller (Nigeria) – 183,000+ followersRachel Kay (South Africa) – 144,000+ followersOjo (Nigeria) – 66,000+ followersSalma Hassan (Egypt) – 64,000+ followersLord Lamba (Nigeria) – 39,000+ followersAliasV (South Africa) – 34,000+ followers

The Lagos State Government has restated its resolve to strengthen and expand durable drainage infrastructure across the state to mitigate flooding. The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, reaffirmed this commitment while addressing journalists after inspecting several ongoing drainage projects. He noted that the intense rainfall experienced early in the year underscored the realities of climate change and global warming. Wahab explained that the inspection was prompted by whistleblower reports of encroachment along the System 46 drainage corridor, warning that such actions could distort the drainage alignment and have long-term consequences for the Ikota River channel if left unchecked. According to him, the government will continue to intensify public awareness campaigns and infrastructure upgrades to protect lives and property. He added that rainfall had been unusually persistent, stretching from December into January, even as the ministry resumed its routine activities for the year. Wahab disclosed that those responsible for the encroachment had been served stop-work orders and that warning signposts would be installed at the site. He also acknowledged complaints about flooding around the Mobil area in Ikota, recalling that earlier violations along the System 44 drainage alignment were cleared two years ago. He said contractors are currently working to resolve flooding in the area, with sections of the drainage temporarily dammed to allow construction. He added that the contractors had been directed to speed up work, noting that about 800 metres remain to be completed upstream and another 800 metres downstream toward the Ikota River. At Ikate, Wahab revealed that contracts had been awarded for concrete lining of drainage channels and the construction of a pumping station to address flooding challenges. Other locations inspected during the tour included Ogombo Road at the Wetland Sandfilling Site, LSDPC Treasure Estate along Evan Ikoku Road off Coastal Road, Lekki II–Ikota along the System 44 Drainage Channel in Eti-Osa Local Government Area, System 156 along Coastal Road, and the Kusenla Drainage Channel.