Author: Zara Lianne

Thousands of Nigerians working in the United Kingdom under Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) or Skilled Worker visas have been thrown into uncertainty following new immigration rules introduced by the UK government. As part of efforts to tighten immigration, the UK has removed over 100 roles from the CoS eligibility list and raised salary thresholds for others by at least 30%. Several jobs especially lower-skilled roles at RQF Levels 3 to 5 are no longer eligible unless they fall under a new Temporary Shortage Occupation List. Affected roles include various managerial positions in agriculture, hospitality, and logistics; health and community service jobs such as opticians, pharmaceutical technicians, and youth workers; protective service jobs like police and fire officers; and roles in the creative and performing arts. The updated rules, which took effect on July 22, 2025, impact the Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, and other sponsorship visa categories. The general salary requirement for Skilled Workers is now set at £41,700, while health and care roles remain at £25,600 but with stricter compliance on net pay after deductions. Many entry-level IT and customer service roles that once qualified for sponsorship now do not, unless salaries are raised significantly. The required skill level has also been increased to Level 6 (Bachelor’s degree equivalent), effectively excluding many formerly eligible roles. These changes have triggered anxiety among Nigerian professionals in the UK who fear they may not be able to renew their visas. A UK-based travel consultant explained that workers on delisted roles will be unable to secure fresh sponsorship once their current contract ends risking loss of legal status. Although no mass terminations have occurred, the uncertainty is causing distress. Some workers said their employers cannot meet the new salary thresholds. Others expressed fears of returning home once their current sponsorship ends. A caregiver shared concerns that her visa, due to expire in August, may not be renewed due to the salary gap. Another worker said his three-year sponsorship will end in less than a year, and he is unlikely to secure another role under the new criteria. An education consultant estimated that over 10,000 Nigerians may be forced to return home as a result of the changes. He added that Nigerians might start turning to other countries for job opportunities, as the UK becomes less accessible. The impact is also being felt at home. A Nigerian student said her mother, currently employed in the UK, is now uncertain about her future, as her role has been removed from the eligible list and her sponsorship will soon expire. Official data shows a sharp rise in the number of Nigerians granted work visas in 2023, but this figure is now beginning to decline due to the recent policy shifts.

Negotiators from Ukraine and Russia have discussed the possibility of a direct meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin during recent talks held in Istanbul, according to Zelensky. Ukraine has been advocating for such a meeting and hopes former U.S. President Donald Trump who has urged both countries to reach a peace deal might also be involved. While Putin has expressed willingness to meet Zelensky, he insists such a meeting should take place only during the “final phase” of peace negotiations aimed at ending the three-year-long conflict. “We need to bring this war to an end, and that likely starts with a meeting between the two leaders,” Zelensky said in remarks shared with journalists on Friday. “In discussions with us, the idea of such a meeting is now being considered. That alone is a step forward.” During the latest round of talks in Istanbul on Wednesday, Ukraine’s lead negotiator, Rustem Umerov, proposed holding the leaders’ meeting before the end of August. That timeline aligns with a 50-day deadline recently set by Trump, who warned of new sanctions if a peace deal isn’t reached within that window. However, Russian representative Vladimir Medinsky expressed skepticism about a quick meeting, stressing the need for proper preparation. “Only when everything is in place will a meeting be meaningful,” he said. Despite the ongoing dialogue, significant progress toward a resolution remains elusive, with both sides holding firm to opposing positions. Zelensky noted that Russian forces continue to attempt advances along parts of the front line, but said they have not made any major breakthroughs.  

Legendary professional wrestler Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, passed away on Thursday at his home in Clearwater, Florida, at the age of 71. His death was confirmed by his longtime manager, who said he suffered a cardiac arrest and died surrounded by family. Hogan began his wrestling career in 1977 but rose to fame in the 1980s after joining what was then known as the World Wrestling Federation. He quickly became one of the most recognisable figures in the sport, known for his charisma, trademark handlebar moustache, and signature catchphrases. His popularity helped transform wrestling into a global phenomenon. Over the years, Hogan became a six-time world champion and headlined WrestleMania eight times. He was inducted into the Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2005 and starred in a reality television show that gave fans a glimpse into his personal life. In recent years, he was active in politics and publicly supported former U.S. President Donald Trump, who called him a close friend and praised his strength and spirit. Hogan appeared at political events and delivered a speech at the 2024 Republican National Convention. His family expressed deep sorrow over his passing, calling him a “legend” and thanking fans worldwide for their support over the decades. Emergency services responded to a call at his residence shortly after 10:00 a.m. on Thursday. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 11:17 a.m. Authorities stated that there was no sign of foul play and that an investigation would follow as standard procedure. Tributes poured in from fellow wrestlers and fans. Wrestling veterans described him as a trailblazer who elevated the sport to new heights. Others remembered him as a generous friend and an enduring symbol of American pop culture. Hogan’s larger-than-life persona extended beyond the ring. He appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including roles in Rocky III, Suburban Commando, and Mr. Nanny, and made guest appearances in various comedies and animated series. He also starred in his own animated show in the 1980s. While Hogan’s career was not without controversy including a public legal battle and past remarks that drew criticism, he remained an influential and polarising figure in sports and entertainment. Hogan had undergone multiple surgeries in recent years related to injuries from his wrestling career, including operations on his back, knees, hips, and shoulders. He once noted that he had undergone about 25 procedures over the span of a decade. He was married three times and had two children with his first wife. Friends and colleagues remembered him not only for his impact on the ring but also for his lasting legacy as an entertainer and public figure. “He may be gone, but his memory and influence will live on forever,” one longtime friend said in tribute.

At least 14 villagers and a mobile police officer lost their lives on Thursday during two separate attacks by armed assailants in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State. One of the attacks reportedly occurred around 4:00 p.m., targeting residents from the Chirang community as they returned from the Bokkos market to Mangor village. Confirming the incident, the Chairman of the Community Peace Observers in Bokkos, Kefas Mallai, said the victims were ambushed by suspected terrorists, resulting in 14 deaths and injuries to three others. “There was an attack on our people this evening. Fourteen locals were ambushed and killed, and three others were injured while returning from Bokkos Market to Mangor Village,” Mallai stated. He added that security forces had moved into the area to restore calm and safeguard residents. Earlier that day, a separate attack claimed the life of a mobile police officer who was stationed at a checkpoint along Richa Road within the same local government area. Mallai described the situation as tragic, saying, “Our hearts are bleeding. Earlier this morning, a mobile police officer was killed at his duty post. This is what happened in Bokkos today.” The Chairman of Bokkos Local Government, Amalau Amalau, also confirmed the attacks, describing the situation as a dire emergency. “We’re currently taking the victims to the Jos University Teaching Hospital. It’s a serious emergency,” he said. Efforts to reach the Plateau State Police Command for comment were unsuccessful, as the spokesperson’s phone was switched off. However, sources confirmed that additional security personnel had been deployed to the area to address the situation. In response to the killings, several residents expressed outrage and renewed calls for the establishment of state police as a long-term solution to ongoing insecurity. “The Federal Government and the National Assembly must act now. Many states have been demanding permission to establish their own police forces. It’s time to take that step to prevent further loss of lives,” said Choji Bulus, a resident of Barkin Ladi.

The Emir of Gusau in Zamfara State, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, has died at the age of 71 following a prolonged illness. He passed away in Abuja on Friday. Dr. Bello, the 16th Emir of Gusau, ascended the throne after the death of his father on March 16, 2015. Prior to becoming Emir, he had a distinguished career in the civil service, rising to the position of Permanent Secretary in the former Sokoto and later Zamfara states. He reigned for just over a decade. His passing was confirmed by the spokesperson for the Zamfara State Governor, who extended condolences on behalf of the governor to the people of the state. In a statement, the governor described the late Emir as a deeply respected traditional leader who was dedicated to the peace, unity, and development of the state. “I received with great sorrow the news of the passing of our father, His Royal Highness, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, the Emir of Gusau,” the governor said. “He was a wise and supportive leader whose guidance and dedication to service were invaluable.” He added that the Emir’s leadership over the past ten years left a lasting impact on the Gusau emirate and the entire state, highlighting his deep sense of duty, faith, and community. “This is a personal loss for me. I have lost a confidant and father figure whose counsel was vital to leadership across the state,” he said. The governor prayed for Allah’s forgiveness and mercy on the late Emir, asking that he be granted Aljannah (Paradise).

Health authorities in The Gambia have confirmed the country’s first case of mpox, signalling the start of an outbreak, even as several neighbouring countries report a surge in infections. The Ministry of Health announced on Tuesday that the virus was identified through routine disease surveillance, with the case confirmed last Friday. Officials stated that the detection of a single case in a country where mpox is not currently circulating qualifies as an outbreak and warrants an immediate public health response. In response, health workers are now conducting active case searches, contact tracing, and community outreach efforts to contain any potential spread. Mpox is a viral illness from the same family as smallpox. Though it can be transmitted from infected animals to humans, it also spreads through close physical contact between people. Symptoms typically include fever, muscle aches, and skin lesions that resemble boils. In some cases, the disease can be fatal. There are two known subtypes of the virus: clade 1 and clade 2. Health officials in The Gambia have begun sequencing tests to determine which variant is present in the confirmed case. The outbreak in The Gambia comes as West Africa experiences a worrying increase in mpox cases. From January to late May, Sierra Leone recorded 3,350 confirmed cases, including 16 deaths. Liberia, as of early June, reported 71 active cases, while Guinea noted that more than 200 cases had been recorded since the virus was first detected there in September last year. Elsewhere in the region, thousands of cases have been reported this year in countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and Burundi. Global health authorities have warned that mpox remains a public health emergency in several regions, with the resurgence in West Africa sparking renewed concern. Efforts are ongoing to bolster surveillance, public awareness, and containment strategies to manage the spread of the virus.

Rute Cardoso, the widow of late Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota, has shared an emotional tribute to honour what would have marked one month since their wedding day. Her message comes just weeks after the tragic accident that claimed the lives of Jota and his younger brother, André Silva, in southern Spain. In a moving social media post on Tuesday, Cardoso posted several heartfelt photos from their wedding, including one showing the couple tenderly holding hands. Alongside the images, she wrote: “1 month of our ‘until death do us part.’ Forever, your white girl.” The tribute struck a deep emotional chord with fans and well-wishers around the world, many of whom have continued to mourn the sudden and devastating loss of the 28-year-old athlete. Jota, known for his spirited performances and relentless work ethic, had become a household name playing as a forward for Liverpool and the Portuguese national team. His death came just 11 days after he exchanged vows with Cardoso, making the tragedy all the more painful for his family, teammates, and supporters. According to reports, Jota and his brother André were travelling along a highway near Seville on July 3 when their car veered off the road. Emergency responders arrived at the scene but were unable to save either of the young men. Cardoso’s heartfelt message is the first public statement she has shared since the accident. Her words reflect both enduring grief and deep love, capturing the pain of losing a partner so soon after beginning a new life together. Jota is remembered not only for his talent on the field but also for his humility, team spirit, and unwavering dedication to the sport. Tributes from teammates, fans, and the broader football community have continued to pour in, honouring a player whose career was tragically cut short. As she navigates this profound loss, Cardoso’s words have resonated deeply, serving as a powerful reminder of love, loss, and the enduring strength of memory.  

A new National Chairman for the All Progressives Congress (APC) may emerge on Thursday during the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled to hold in Abuja. The development comes after former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, stepped down from the position in June, citing health reasons. However, many political observers believe his resignation was influenced by internal dynamics and shifting alliances within the party as it prepares for the 2027 elections. Following Ganduje’s exit, the Deputy National Chairman, Ali Dalori, was appointed to serve in an acting capacity. According to party insiders, Thursday’s NEC meeting will address several critical issues, including the confirmation of a new national chairman, updates from the Constitution Review Committee, and discussions on party congresses. Sources at the party’s national secretariat revealed that many leaders favour allowing Dalori to continue as acting chairman until a formal Elective Convention is held to select new National Working Committee (NWC) members. However, there is also pressure to confirm a substantive chairman immediately. The NEC’s decision is expected to reflect the input of President Bola Tinubu, who party officials say has been briefed on the matter and whose stance could influence the final outcome. Among the top contenders for the position are former Nasarawa State Governor, Tanko Al-Makura, and the current Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda—both of whom are being supported by stakeholders from the North-Central region, which is pushing for the chairmanship slot to return to the zone. Historically, the APC has had five national chairmen before Ganduje: Bisi Akande, John Oyegun, Adams Oshiomhole, Mai Mala Buni, and Abdullahi Adamu. The APC Constitution empowers the NEC to appoint a national chairman and, where necessary, establish a caretaker committee. Specifically, Article 13.3 of the party’s amended 2022 Constitution outlines the NEC’s authority to perform the functions of the National Convention between meetings and to take any necessary steps in the interest of the party, including forming interim leadership structures. The NEC meeting, scheduled for July 24 in Abuja, was officially announced by Deputy National Secretary, Festus Fuanter. He noted that while a new chairman may be nominated during the meeting, the final decision may be reserved for the upcoming Elective Convention. Meanwhile, lobbying efforts have intensified, with major stakeholders advocating for their preferred candidates. The outcome of the NEC meeting is expected to clarify the direction of party leadership and may also include updates on the party’s electronic membership registration, constitutional amendments, and preparations for by-elections. Party officials confirmed that preparations for the meeting are complete and that the President is expected to attend. Some leaders anticipate that a substantive chairman could be named during the session, just as Ganduje was previously appointed at a NEC gathering. The North-Central region has continued to advocate for the return of the chairmanship slot. A regional forum representing the zone appealed to the party’s leadership and President Tinubu to consider justice and fairness in their decision-making. They argued that the zone has played a strategic role in the party’s growth and electoral victories, including delivering the third-highest number of votes for Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election. According to the group, the region boasts five APC governors and deserves to reclaim the chairmanship following the exit of former Chairman Abdullahi Adamu, also from the zone. They also dismissed calls for Dalori, who is from the North-East, to remain in office, stating that such a move would sideline the North-Central and undermine existing power-sharing arrangements. In response, party officials from the North-West have emphasized the importance of following due process. Kaduna APC Publicity Secretary Salisu Wusono stated that any decision on leadership should be in line with the party’s constitution and democratic norms. Similarly, the Zamfara State chapter expressed readiness to support any candidate chosen as long as the individual promotes unity and progress within the party. As the NEC meeting draws near, all eyes are on the leadership to see whether it will confirm a new National Chairman or maintain the status quo until a convention is held. The outcome will likely set the tone for the APC’s internal alignment ahead of the 2027 elections.    

The Senate has approved an external borrowing plan exceeding $21 billion for the 2025–2026 fiscal period, enabling the full implementation of the 2025 national budget. The approved borrowing includes $21.19 billion in foreign loans, €4 billion, ¥15 billion, a $65 million grant, and approximately ₦757 billion in domestic bonds. It also authorizes the issuance of a $2 billion foreign-currency-denominated instrument in the local market. The approval followed the presentation of a report by Senator Aliyu Wamakko, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debt. He explained that the proposal, initially submitted on May 27, was delayed due to the legislative recess and incomplete documentation from the Debt Management Office. Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Senator Olamilekan Adeola, stated that the proposed loans were already incorporated into the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and the 2025 Appropriation Act. “With this approval, we now have all revenue sources, including loans, in place to fully fund the budget,” Adeola said. While the motion passed with majority support, it also drew scrutiny. Senator Sani Musa clarified that the disbursement of the loans would be spread over six years, not confined to a single fiscal cycle. “There is no economy that grows without borrowing. What we are doing aligns with global best practices,” Musa said. Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, Chair of the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions, reassured that the loans are concessional, long-term, and aligned with national legislation. “These funds are strictly for capital and human development projects, with repayment periods ranging from 20 to 35 years,” he said. However, Senator Abdul Ningi raised concerns over transparency and equitable distribution of the loans. He stressed the need for clarity on how the funds would be used. “Nigerians deserve to know how much is being borrowed in their name and what it’s meant for,” he said. Key sectors expected to benefit from the loans include infrastructure, agriculture, power, housing, security, and digital connectivity. A notable highlight is the $3 billion earmarked for the reconstruction of the Eastern Rail Corridor, stretching from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri. Senator Victor Umeh praised the rail investment, saying, “This is the first time I’ve seen such a significant amount allocated to the eastern rail line. That alone justifies my full support.” Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau commended the committee’s work, noting that the borrowing plan reflects national inclusiveness. “This shows the Renewed Hope Agenda is being implemented with all regions in mind,” Barau said. The Senate emphasized that all funds must be used solely for capital and development projects in compliance with public finance regulations.