US Embassy Clarifies Visa Restrictions on Nigerians: Security Screening, Not Punishment, Says Ambassador

The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has clarified that the new U.S. visa restrictions for Nigerian citizens are intended to strengthen security screening, not to target Nigerians personally. Announced under a presidential proclamation taking effect January 1, 2026, the restrictions affect specific visa categories, with exemptions for diplomats, religious travelers, and official passport holders. U.S. lawmakers emphasized that such measures are routine security reviews aimed at improving government processes rather than punishing individuals, while Nigerians are urged to consult official embassy channels for accurate information.

Nigerian-American Izunna Okonkwo, Over $41M Insider Trading and Stock Manipulation Scheme

U.S. authorities have charged six individuals, including Nigerian-American Izunna Okonkwo, for a multi-year insider trading and stock manipulation scheme that allegedly earned at least $41 million in illicit profits. The defendants are accused of trading on material non-public information and manipulating the stock prices of biopharmaceutical companies developing breast cancer and opioid overdose treatments. Court documents allege the group falsified data and issued fake press releases to mislead investors. The charges include conspiracy to commit securities fraud, insider trading, wire fraud, and market manipulation, carrying potential prison sentences of 5 to 25 years per count.

Nigerian Footballer Daniel Daga Suspended by Molde FK Following Sexual Assault Charge in Norway

Norwegian club Molde FK has suspended Nigerian midfielder Daniel Daga, 18, after he was formally indicted on a sexual assault charge under Section 297 of the Norwegian Penal Code. The alleged incident, first reported in April 2025, will be heard in March 2026 at the Nordmøre and Romsdal District Court. Molde FK confirmed that both the player and the club have fully cooperated with the police. Daga’s lawyer, Astrid Bolstad, denied the allegations, stating the encounter was consensual. The midfielder has been barred from all training sessions and match activities pending legal proceedings.

Abuja Residents Left in Darkness as AEDC Cites Technical Fault Affecting Utako and Wuye

Residents of Utako and parts of Wuye in Abuja were plunged into darkness following a power outage caused by a technical fault on a feeder supplying electricity to the areas, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) confirmed on December 22, 2025. AEDC stated that its technical team is working to restore power as quickly as possible but did not provide a specific timeline. The company apologized for the inconvenience and urged affected residents to remain patient, offering updates through its WhatsApp lines and customer care numbers for further inquiries.

U.S. Congressmen Rule Out Troop Deployment to Nigeria, Call Violence Against Muslims and Christians “Unacceptable”

A bipartisan U.S. Congressional delegation visiting Nigeria has ruled out sending American troops to address the country’s insecurity, emphasizing that the U.S. designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) aims to drive reforms through diplomatic pressure, not military intervention. Led by Congressman Bill Huizenga and including Reps. Michael Baumgartner, Keith Self, and Jefferson Shreve, the delegation met with Nigerian officials, religious leaders, and civil society representatives to discuss religious freedom, accountability, and strategies to curb violence across the country. While condemning attacks on both Muslims and Christians, the lawmakers stressed non-military support such as humanitarian assistance, institutional reforms, and capacity-building as key approaches to improving stability in Nigeria.

Mercy Johnson’s Viral Video Hyping Husband Prince Okojie Sparks Reactions Amid Lady’s Bold Allegations

Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson shared a heartwarming video of herself hyping her husband, Federal Representative Prince Okojie, ahead of the Christmas festivities, which quickly went viral on social media. The clip, showing the couple in a playful moment, gained further attention amid a lady’s bold allegations claiming Prince Okojie had impregnated a mistress and purchased a mansion for her before returning to his wife. Fans and followers reacted strongly to the video and allegations, while Mercy Johnson has previously spoken out in support of colleague Regina Daniels, highlighting her concern over matters of injustice.

Ned Nwoko Makes First Public Appearance with Sons Munir and Khalifa Since Fallout with Regina Daniels

Senator Ned Nwoko was recently seen in public with his young sons, Munir and Khalifa, marking their first appearance since his estranged wife, Regina Daniels, publicly raised concerns about access to the children. The billionaire attended an event celebrating the achievements of Dr. Nwachukwu Munachimso Naomi and Pharm. Nwachukwu Akachi Emmanuella, sharing heartwarming moments with his sons. Nwoko addressed the custody dispute, insisting that Daniels’ claims were misleading and reaffirmed that photos and videos of the children had always been shared within the family. The appearance has sparked social media reactions, with fans and critics weighing in on the family dynamics.

Prophet Abel Boma Issues Troubling 2026 Prophecy, Prays for Pastor Jerry Eze, Peller, VeryDarkMan, Nnamdi Kanu, and President Tinubu

Prophet Abel Tamunominabo Boma has shared a new prophecy for 2026, highlighting the lives of notable Nigerian figures including Pastor Jerry Eze, Peller, VeryDarkMan, Nnamdi Kanu, and President Bola Tinubu. In the video, the cleric prayed against alleged assassination attempts and other threats facing these personalities, asserting divine protection over their lives. Prophet Boma also addressed threats against businessman Obi Cubana, warning of potential plots while advising ways to avert them. The prophecy has sparked reactions online, with supporters affirming the prayers and some critics questioning the focus on prominent figures over ordinary citizens.

Nigerian Army Breaks Silence as Military Deploys Troops, Air Support to Foil Alleged Terrorist Attacks Planned for Christmas Day

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that heightened security measures have been put in place nationwide following reports of planned terrorist attacks targeting Christian communities during Christmas Day celebrations. In a statement issued by the Defence Headquarters, Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, disclosed that additional troops had been deployed to vulnerable areas, while special forces and air support units were placed on high alert to ensure rapid response. Surveillance activities, including aerial monitoring, intelligence gathering, fortified checkpoints, and coordinated patrols with community leaders and vigilante groups, have been intensified across the country. The military urged Nigerians to remain calm but vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activities, stressing its commitment to protecting lives, property, and national stability throughout the festive season.

Catholic Diocese Confirms Release of Second Batch of Kidnapped Niger Pupils After Weeks of Captivity Following Papiri School Abduction

The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has confirmed the release of the second batch of abducted pupils, students, and staff from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, bringing relief to families after weeks of uncertainty. The mass abduction occurred on November 21, 2025, when gunmen stormed the boarding school and kidnapped over 300 pupils and teachers. In a statement signed by the Diocese Secretary, Rev. Fr. Jatau Luka Joseph, the Church expressed deep gratitude to the Federal Government, Niger State Government, security agencies, parents, media organisations, and humanitarian partners for their prayers, solidarity, and efforts that contributed to the safe release of the victims. The Diocese reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and welfare of pupils and staff, pledging continued collaboration with authorities to ensure a secure learning environment.

New Twist as Senate President Akpabio Takes Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Suspension Battle to Supreme Court After Appeal Court Setback

The legal dispute surrounding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has escalated as Senate President Godswill Akpabio approaches the Supreme Court to challenge a ruling by the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal. The appellate court had struck out the Federal Government’s brief of argument in the case, describing it as fundamentally defective and incompetent due to multiple procedural violations, including non-compliance with mandatory court rules on formatting, page limits, and filing requirements. Akpabio’s legal team insists the decision breached his right to fair hearing and has asked the apex court to nullify the proceedings and allow the refiling of the appeal. The move has intensified public debate, with legal experts and civil society groups questioning the political undertones of the case and warning against perceived attempts to undermine judicial independence, as the long-running rivalry between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan continues to draw national attention.

Year-In-Review 2025: Peter Obi, El-Rufai, Fubara And Other Nigerian Politicians Who Lost Power, Influence And Political Ground

Nigeria’s political landscape in 2025 was marked by intense power struggles, elections, defections, and shifting alliances that reshaped the fortunes of several prominent politicians. While some leaders consolidated influence, others suffered major setbacks that weakened their political standing ahead of the 2027 general elections. Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi endured a difficult year as his party failed to record meaningful victories in key bye-elections and the Anambra governorship poll, including losing his own polling unit. Labour Party’s Anambra candidate, George Moghalu, also struggled at the polls despite strong pre-election expectations. Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara faced suspension, political isolation, and a forced realignment after a prolonged crisis that led to a six-month state of emergency. Former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai equally lost ground as the ruling APC gained strength through defections, weakening his influence in Kaduna and nationally. The year-in-review highlights how these political losses have compelled affected politicians to reassess strategies as Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 elections.

JUST IN: Pepsi signs rapper Jeriq

Ghana deports 42 Nigerians for prostitution, others

The Ghanaian government has deported no fewer than 42 Nigerians from the Ashanti Region after various courts found them guilty for prostitution, fraud, and other related offences.

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, disclosed this on social media.

According to him, other foreign nationals deported include 13 Cameroonian nationals, three Ivorian nationals, three Burkinabe nationals, and seven Benin nationals.

“A total of 42 Nigerians, 13 Cameroonians, 3 Ivorians, 3 Burkinabe nationals, and 7 Benin nationals have been deported from the Ashanti Region to their respective countries following various court rulings involving Q-Net, prostitution, and other criminal activities.

I commend the Ghana Immigration Service for its professionalism, diligence, and firm commitment to enforcing our immigration laws, while upholding due process and human dignity.

Their collaboration with the courts and other security agencies continues to strengthen public safety, protect vulnerable persons, and preserve law and order in the region.” he said

The deportation of the Nigerians comes amid growing reports of increased scrutiny and mass arrests of Nigerians abroad.

NIGER STATE POLICE COMMAND

RESCUE/RELEASE OF THE REMAINING ST. MARY'S CATHOLIC STUDENTS, PAPIRI

The Niger State Police Command wishes to confirm that the remaining batch of the abducted students of the St. Mary's Catholic School, Papiri has been released today 21st December, 2025. A total number of 130 victims including the staff have been released, further development will be communicated, please

SP Wasiu Abiodun
Police PRO
Niger State Command

Ini Edo Breaks Down In Tears As CAN Moves To Pull Down Her Christmas Movie “A Very Dirty Christmas”, Actress Begs For Time To Change Title

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Ini Edo has emotionally reacted to the backlash trailing the title of her Christmas movie, A Very Dirty Christmas, after the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) described it as offensive to the Christian faith. During a live Instagram session on December 20, 2025, the actress broke down in tears as she appealed to CAN and Christian leaders not to take down the movie, insisting she never intended to dishonour God or Christianity. Ini Edo explained that she would have changed the title earlier if she had known it would generate such controversy and revealed she is already working on modifying it. She urged critics to watch the movie first, promising to withdraw it entirely if it was found to disrespect Christian values. The controversy has continued to spark heated reactions online, with many Nigerians debating CAN’s priorities, while the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has reportedly directed the actress to adjust the movie’s title.

Video Of Pastor Enoch Adeboye Moving His Mouth While Seated At Event Goes Viral As Nigerians Debate Prayer, Meditation And Speaking In Tongues

A close-up video showing the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, subtly moving his mouth while seated at a public event has sparked widespread reactions across social media platforms. The short clip, which was shared on TikTok, drew attention from netizens who interpreted the cleric’s actions in different spiritual and personal ways. While some viewers suggested that Pastor Adeboye may have been praying silently, meditating, or speaking in tongues, others believed the movement could simply be a habit formed over years of devotion. Supporters described the respected cleric as someone constantly immersed in prayer, even while sitting quietly, drawing inspiration from what they described as his deep spiritual discipline. The viral video triggered emotional and faith-based reactions, with many users expressing admiration, reflection, and renewed commitment to prayer. The discussion highlights the continued influence of Pastor Adeboye in Nigeria’s religious space and how even subtle moments involving the RCCG leader resonate strongly with believers and social media audiences alike.

Modern druids gathered at Stonehenge to mark the winter solstice

Several thousand people gathered at the megaliths in the morning. They are residents of Britain who consider themselves followers of the traditions of ancient Celtic priests.

They are celebrating the moment when, after the longest night of the year, the days begin to grow longer.

Supporters of modern druidism and other pagans danced and performed rituals among the stones, welcoming a new solar cycle.

This one na premium audacity!
Carter Efe really picked up his phone on livestream and called Davido’s manager to ask about the ₦20 million like say na normal follow-up. No shaking.
Response?
“No worries, you’ll be credited once Davido returns from Morocco.”
Imagine calling OBO’s camp for payment update like NEPA bill.
Zero fear. Full confidence. No pressure.
This guy no dey chase clout — he dey chase alert.
And honestly? Respect the audacity.