Mass Deportation: Nigeria deports over 50 foreigners for internet fraud, others. The Federal Government of Nigeria has deported 51 foreign nationals convicted of cyber-terrorism, internet fraud, and related financial crimes back to their home countries, marking the completion of a large-scale repatriation exercise that involved a total of 192 convicts. According to official sources, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) coordinated the deportations in collaboration with the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), in line with court directives and immigration protocols. The deported convicts include citizens of China, the Philippines, Tunisia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Timor-Leste. They were expelled in coordinated phases between August and mid-October 2025, following their conviction by the Federal High Court in Lagos on charges bordering on cybercrime, money laundering, and Ponzi scheme operations. The crackdown originated from a major sting operation conducted by the EFCC on December 10, 2024, at Oyin Jolayemi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, which led to the arrest of 759 suspects. The first batch of 42 convicts primarily Chinese and Filipino nationals was deported on August 15, 2025, while the final group of 51, including 50 Chinese citizens and one Tunisian, was repatriated on October 16, 2025. Investigations revealed that the convicts were part of a sophisticated cybercrime and Ponzi network operating under Genting International Co. Limited, where they allegedly trained recruits and managed fraudulent digital platforms targeting victims both locally and abroad. The deportation, authorities said, brings the multi-agency cybercrime crackdown to a decisive close and reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to fighting transnational digital fraud and financial crimes.

FG deports 51 foreign nationals convicted of cybercrimes. ”All the deported convicts bagged their imprisonment when they were arrested with their Nigerian accomplices, believed to be members of a sophisticated cybercrime and ponzi scheme syndicate. ”The syndicate was said to be operating under the cover of Genting International Co. Limited. ”The operation, based on credible, actionable intelligence, and subsequent investigations, confirmed that the convicted foreigners were involved in large-scale online fraud, identity theft, and cyber-enabled Ponzi schemes.” According to him, evidence revealed that they trained recruits and managed fraudulent digital platforms aimed at defrauding victims both locally and internationally. The Nigeria Immigration Service deported them as directed by the court,

Ayurvedic Detoxification Techniques: The Science of Panchakarma In today’s fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook what our body tries to tell us. Fatigue, digestive issues, bloating, poor sleep, brain fog, and low immunity—these are often signs that the body is overloaded with toxins. Ayurveda, India’s ancient healing system, believes that health begins with cleansing the body and mind from accumulated impurities, also known as Ama. One of the most powerful detoxification methods in Ayurveda is Panchakarma—a structured therapeutic process that restores balance, removes toxins, and rejuvenates the body from the cellular level. Understanding Toxins in Ayurveda Before diving into Panchakarma, it's important to understand Ama, the Ayurvedic concept of toxins. Ama forms when our Agni (digestive fire) becomes weak due to irregular eating, unhealthy food choices, lack of sleep, stress, or exposure to chemicals. Over time, these toxins clog body channels (srotas), disrupt dosha balance, and give rise to illness. Ayurvedic detoxification is not just about weight loss or cleansing the stomach—it is about purifying the entire body system and restoring harmony. Learn More https://www.naditarangini.com/ayurvedic-detoxification-techniques-the-science-of-panchakarma/ What Is Panchakarma? The term Panchakarma translates to “five actions” or “five therapies”. These therapies are designed to eliminate deep-seated toxins from the tissues and expel them from the body in a controlled, scientific way. Panchakarma is unique because it doesn’t just detox the gut—it addresses toxins in every tissue layer, bringing equilibrium to Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas. Three Phases of Panchakarma Detox Panchakarma is not a single treatment—it’s a carefully planned healing journey that happens in three phases: 1. Purva Karma (Preparation Phase) This step prepares the body to release toxins. Snehana (Internal and External Oleation): Herbal oils or ghee are used to loosen toxins stored in tissues. Swedana (Herbal Steam Therapy): Steam and herbs help liquefy toxins and move them toward the digestive tract for elimination. 2. Pradhana Karma (Main Detox Procedures) This phase includes the five core cleansing techniques: Technique Procedure Target Vamana Therapeutic emesis Removes excess Kapha and mucus from chest/stomach Virechana Controlled purgation Cleanses liver and intestines, reduces Pitta Basti Medicated enemas Balances Vata and nourishes colon Nasya Herbal drops in nostrils Clears head, sinuses, improves mental clarity Rakta Mokshana Blood cleansing Removes toxins from blood, improves immunity 3. Paschat Karma (Rejuvenation Phase) After detox, the body needs nourishment and stability. This includes: Diet correction (Pathya): Light, healing foods to rebuild digestion Rasayana (Rejuvenative herbs): Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Amla for strength and vitality Lifestyle guidance: Daily routines to maintain detox benefits Benefits of Panchakarma Panchakarma offers a complete reset for body and mind. Some proven benefits include: Improves digestion and metabolism Enhances nutrient absorption Boosts immunity and vitality Supports hormonal balance Reduces chronic fatigue and stress Relieves joint and muscle stiffness Clears skin and improves glow Promotes mental clarity and emotional balance Addresses chronic conditions like arthritis, sinusitis, IBS, and migraines Panchakarma Is Personalized Medicine One of the biggest strengths of Panchakarma is that it is highly personalized. Unlike generic detox programs, Ayurvedic detox is planned after analyzing: Your dominant Dosha Prakriti (body constitution) Health condition Age and strength Season and lifestyle That’s why Panchakarma must be done under trained Ayurvedic supervision. Self-detox without guidance may disturb dosha balance rather than help it. Simple Daily Detox According to Ayurveda If full Panchakarma therapy is not feasible, you can incorporate small Ayurvedic detox habits daily: Begin mornings with warm water and lemon or ginger Include Triphala at night for gentle colon cleansing Use turmeric and cumin in cooking for natural detox Eat fresh, cooked meals instead of packaged or reheated food Avoid overeating and late-night meals Practice oil pulling to detox the mouth Take 10–15 minutes of self-abhyanga (oil massage) weekly Practice pranayama or meditation to detox the mind Final Thought The beauty of Panchakarma lies not only in cleansing the body but also in rejuvenating the spirit. It teaches that detoxification is not just about fasting or flushing—it’s about restoring balance, enhancing energy, and reconnecting with natural health. As lifestyle diseases keep rising, this ancient detox science offers a soothing yet powerful path to holistic wellbeing. If done with discipline and the right guidance, Panchakarma can transform your health from the inside out—naturally and sustainably.

UK Tightens Immigration Rules, Cuts Post-Study Visa to 18 Months. The British government has unveiled sweeping immigration reforms that include stricter English language requirements and a reduction of the post-study visa period for international graduates from two years to 18 months. Announced on Tuesday by the Home Office as part of its new immigration white paper and Plan for Change, the measures aim to create what the government calls a “controlled, selective and fair” system. Under the revised policy, migrants applying through designated legal routes must now pass a Secure English Language Test equivalent to A-level proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The test, to be conducted by approved providers, will be verified during visa processing. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the reforms reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring migrants integrate and contribute meaningfully to British society. “This country welcomes those who come here to contribute,” she said. “But it’s unacceptable for anyone to arrive without learning our language or taking part in our national life.” Effective January 1, 2027, international graduates will only be allowed to remain in the UK for 18 months after completing their studies, a move the government says is based on data showing that many were not moving into graduate-level employment as intended. The reforms also include a 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) for employers sponsoring foreign workers — the first adjustment since 2017. The additional revenue will fund training for British workers and help reduce dependence on overseas recruitment. From the 2025–2026 academic year, international students will face higher financial proof requirements to ensure they can support themselves while studying in the UK. Other key updates include an expansion of the High Potential Individual (HPI) route now open to graduates from the world’s top 100 universities, with an annual cap of 8,000 applicants and enhancements to the Global Talent route to attract top researchers and creative professionals.

Shehu Sani Mocks Labour Party Over Outrage at Governor Mbah’s Defection: “You Left Africa to Syria, They Left to Spain” Former Nigerian senator, Shehu Sani, has taken a swipe at critics of Governor Peter Mbah’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC)—especially those from the Labour Party (LP)—accusing them of hypocrisy and selective outrage. In a Facebook post on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, Sani reacted to comments made by Peter Obi, who had downplayed the political impact of Mbah’s defection but criticized the trend of cross-party movement among politicians. Sani questioned why members of the Labour Party should be angry over a PDP member joining the APC, pointing out that many within the LP themselves were originally from the PDP. Using his trademark humor, Sani drew a colorful analogy: “You left Africa to Syria, and they left Africa to Spain. You are angry because they didn’t follow your route. You saw the vision and left; they only trailed your footsteps. The defectors only divorced the wife you once divorced.” The former lawmaker argued that political migration has long been part of Nigeria’s political culture, and it was inconsistent for politicians to condemn defections when they had once done the same. Sani’s remarks came after Obi clarified that Governor Mbah’s defection does not represent a regional political takeover, insisting that good governance—not party affiliation—should determine political support. However, Sani’s post reframed the conversation, suggesting that Nigeria’s political class is caught in a revolving door of defections, where party switches are more about personal ambition than ideology. His witty metaphor quickly went viral, reigniting debates about loyalty, integrity, and the fluid nature of political alliances in the country.

📉 Nigeria’s Lowest Revenue-Generating State Revealed According to the latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Yobe State recorded the lowest internally generated revenue (IGR) in Nigeria for 2024 — about ₦11.08 billion only. At the top, Lagos State remains the leader with over ₦800 billion, showing the wide economic gap between states. Experts say low IGR is linked to insecurity, weak tax systems, and overdependence on federal allocations. 🗣️ What do you think your state can do to boost its internal revenue? #Nigeria #Economy #IGR #Development #Governance

Cloud Migration Service Market Siz, Demand, Forecast to 2033 According to StraitsResearch, the global cloud migration service market size was estimated at USD 19.94 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to grow from USD 24.46 billion in 2025 till USD 125.52 billion in 2033, growing at a CAGR of 22.68% from 2025 to 2033. Request a Sample Copy of the Research Report: https://straitsresearch.com/report/cloud-migration-service-market/request-sample

Libyan Police Arrest Two Nigerians Over Drug Trafficking in Zliten. Authorities in Zliten, Libya, have arrested two undocumented Nigerian migrants for alleged involvement in drug trafficking. According to a Sunday report by Migrant Rescue Watch, operatives of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) apprehended the suspects with quantities of hashish and hallucinogenic pills believed to be intended for sale. The organisation disclosed that the duo has since been transferred to the Anti-Narcotics Agency for further interrogation and prosecution. “CID in Zliten arrested two undocumented Nigerian nationals over drug trafficking. They were caught with hashish and hallucinogenic pills ready for distribution,” the statement read. In recent months, Libyan security agencies have ramped up efforts to combat crimes linked to irregular migrants, focusing on curbing drug-related offences and dismantling smuggling networks across the country.

Former US president George W. Bush's favourite chef deported for crossing the border illegally in 1989. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deported a chef who had been living in the United States for 36 years and catered events related to the White House during the administration of former President George W. Bush. Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, wrote in a statement: “Sergio Garcia Silva is a CRIMINAL. This criminal illegal alien from Mexico was previously removed from this country in March 2025, over 20 years after a judge issued him a final order of removal. He chose to ignore our laws and illegally re-enter the country, a federal felony offense. This lawbreaker was arrested by Border Patrol and was convicted for illegal re-entry. Bottom line: Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, if you break the law, you will face the consequences. Criminal illegal aliens are not welcome in the U.S.” The case of Garcia—a chef who lived in Waco, Texas, and first came to the United States in 1989—underscores the concerns raised about deportations and has rattled the local community. Garcia entered the U.S. when he was 29 years old and did not plan to stay long in the country, reported The Waco Bridge. But he began working at restaurants in Texas and made friends, even meeting his future wife, Sandra, and ended up overstaying his visa. He would sell ceviche out of Styrofoam cups at his local soccer field and opened a brick-and-mortar restaurant in 1995. During Bush’s presidency, members of the White House press corps frequently visited his restaurant, and he eventually began catering events. They started a family and lived in the U.S. for 36 years with no issues—he had no criminal record other than a decades-old deportation order, the Bridge reported. But in March of this year, ICE agents arrested him at his food truck. Within one day, he had been deported across to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. He attempted to take a bus to Monterrey, where his wife’s family lives, but was instead taken to a “compound” and extorted for money to help him cross the border, he told the publication. He was not able to contact his family for 36 days. He was apprehended at the border and spent the next month in a detention center before being flown to Chiapas.

Tinubu Approves 959 National Honours. President Bola Tinubu on Thursday approved the conferment of 959 national honours and endorsed far-reaching reforms to strengthen the funding framework of the Nigeria Police Force. Understands that the President made the approvals while presiding over marathon meetings of the National Council of State and the Nigeria Police Council at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Briefing State House correspondents after the sessions, the Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Affairs Office, Emanso Umobong, said Tinubu endorsed the report of the National Honours Award Committee covering 2024 and 2025, alongside special awards already bestowed since January 2025. “The award of titles of honour and decorations of dignitaries is a yearly event at which the President honours deserving nationals and non-nationals who have distinguished themselves in the service of the nation and humanity,” Umobong said. She explained that the committee, chaired by Justice Sidi Bage, screened over 5,000 applications before recommending 824 recipients for national honours and 135 special awardees, bringing the total to 959 honourees. According to Umobong, Tinubu had in the past year honoured individuals and groups such as Bill Gates for contributions to public health, Uncle Sam Pemu for journalism, and the Super Falcons and D’Tigress for sporting excellence. Others include the Ogoni Nine and Ogoni Four, recognised posthumously for environmental activism, and outgoing INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, celebrated for his decade of service to Nigeria’s democratic process. She confirmed that the updated list of awardees would soon be published.

If you’re in the UK illegally you will be detained and deported — Kemi Badenoch Unveils “Radical Borders Plan”. UK Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has unveiled what she calls the “toughest reforms Britain has ever seen” on immigration, announcing a sweeping new plan aimed at tightening border controls and expelling illegal migrants more rapidly. In a video message shared on her official X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, Badenoch launched a new Removals Force, modelled on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, tasked with deporting 150,000 illegal migrants every year. “My message is clear: if you’re here illegally, you will be detained and deported,” she declared. Dubbed the “Radical Borders Plan,” the proposal includes a series of hardline measures: banning asylum claims from illegal entrants, withdrawing the UK from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), repealing the Human Rights Act, and fast-tracking deportations within one week. The plan also calls for visa sanctions on countries that refuse to take back their citizens. Badenoch sharply criticised previous Conservative and Labour governments for what she described as decades of failure on immigration policy. She accused Labour of record illegal crossings and mismanagement of taxpayer funds spent on asylum accommodation. “Successive governments have failed on immigration,” she said. “Labour promised to smash the gangs. Instead, in just a year, they delivered record small boat crossings — over 50,000 illegal arrivals, 32,000 people in asylum hotels, and billions wasted. It’s pure weakness.” The Conservative leader argued that her proposed reforms would “shut down the asylum hotel racket,” save billions of pounds in public spending, and restore public trust in the country’s border system. “Only the Conservatives have a serious, credible plan to deliver stronger borders,” Badenoch concluded. “If you come here illegally, you will be deported.”

US offers $2,500 incentive for migrants to return to their home countries. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is reportedly developing a new program that would offer unaccompanied migrant teenagers a $2,500 incentive to voluntarily return to their countries of origin, according to a CNN report citing an internal administration memo. Under the proposed initiative, the pilot phase would target 17-year-old migrants, with each case requiring approval from an immigration judge. The payment described as a “reintegration stipend” would be disbursed after the minor’s arrival in their home country to help them resettle. Officials say the measure aims to reduce long-term detention costs and encourage voluntary returns. The plan mirrors an existing Trump-era program that offers $1,000 “exit bonuses” to undocumented adults who opt for self-deportation, a move the government has defended as a more cost-effective and humane approach than forced deportation. An ICE spokesperson emphasized that the new program would be entirely voluntary, adding that it is designed to allow minors “to make an informed decision about their future.” As of October 2, about 2,100 unaccompanied children were in the custody of the Department of Health and Human Services. However, immigrant rights advocates have condemned the plan, warning that financial incentives could pressure vulnerable youths into returning to unsafe or unstable conditions. “There is no legitimate reason for the government to incentivize voluntary departure with a financial payoff,” said Neha Desai of the National Center for Youth Law. Critics argue that the initiative undermines long-standing U.S. protections for migrant children, potentially reigniting debates over the ethics of the country’s immigration and deportation practices.

Trump govt offers migrant teens $2,500 to voluntarily leave US. The Department of Homeland Security is preparing to offer unaccompanied migrant teenagers in the U.S. a $2,500 payment if they voluntarily return to their home countries, CNN reports. According to an administration memo, the initiative would begin with 17-year-old migrants and require approval from an immigration judge. The payment would be issued after arrival in their home country to help with “reintegration efforts.” The Trump administration already provides $1,000 “exit bonuses” to undocumented adults who choose self-deportation, citing the approach as more cost-effective than detention and deportation. An ICE spokesperson confirmed that the program is “strictly voluntary” and allows minors “to make an informed decision about their future.” As of October 2, roughly 2,100 unaccompanied minors were in the custody of the Department of Health and Human Services. Critics, however, argue that paying children to leave undermines long-standing protections for vulnerable migrant youths under U.S. law. “There is no legitimate reason for the government to incentivize voluntary departure with a financial payoff,” said Neha Desai of the National Center for Youth Law. Immigrant advocates warn the policy could pressure children to return to unsafe conditions, reigniting debates over how the administration handles unaccompanied minors at the border.

Governor Otti Drags Lawyer to Court, Demands N100bn for Calling Him ‘Otthief’. Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has taken legal action against a former commissioner and lawyer, Hon. Barr. Eze Chikamnayo, demanding N100 billion in damages for allegedly defaming him on Facebook. The governor, through his counsel, Dr. Sonny Ajala (SAN), said Chikamnayo made a series of malicious posts where he repeatedly referred to him as “Otthief” and accused him of corruption. Otti insisted the statements were false and targeted at tarnishing his image. In a letter dated October 2, 2025, the Senior Advocate warned that the governor’s reputation has been “brutally destroyed” by the defamatory remarks. The publications was shared between August and September, carried captions such as “Alex Otthief is a confirmed criminal and disaster!” and “Alex Otthief is a confirmed criminal and congenital liar = looting governor!” Ajala noted that the governor has never been convicted or indicted by any court, stressing that Otti’s long-standing reputation as a respected banker and former Diamond Bank Chief Executive remains intact. He said the posts caused “mental torture, depression, and denigration” to his client. Governor Otti is demanding a full retraction of the posts, a public apology on Facebook and in four national newspapers, as well as a written undertaking by Chikamnayo to desist from further attacks. However, the SAN warned that if the lawyer fails to comply within seven days, the governor will proceed to court to enforce his demands.

NIS Begins Crackdown on Foreigners with Expired Visas From October 1. The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has launched enforcement against foreign nationals who overstayed their visas or breached entry conditions, following the expiration of the Federal Government’s Expired Visa Initiative (Amnesty) on September 30, 2025. The program, introduced in May 2025, gave foreigners with expired immigration status the chance to regularize their stay or exit Nigeria without penalties.  Initially set for three months, the grace period was later extended to September 30. In a notice signed by ACI Kinsola Akinlabi, NIS spokesperson, the agency confirmed that from October 1, enforcement would begin nationwide. The crackdown targets holders of expired Visas on Arrival, expired short visit or business visas, and lapsed Comprehensive Expatriate Residence Permit and Automated Cards (CERPAC). Penalties for violators include, Less than 3 months overstay: removal, $15 daily fine, or 2-year entry ban, 3 months to 1 year: removal, $15 daily fine, or 5-year ban, over 1 year removal, 10-year ban, or permanent ban. The NIS stressed that foreigners who fail to regularize their status will face sanctions ranging from fines to deportation and entry restrictions.  The Service said the enforcement is part of ongoing reforms, including the shift to e-Visas and automated immigration processes, aimed at strengthening national security and order.

US to deport hundreds of Iranians after deal with Tehran. The United States is planning to deport some 400 Iranians, most of whom entered the country illegally, as part of US President Donald Trump’s broader crackdown on immigration. “In the first step, they decided to deport 120 Iranians who entered the US illegally, most of whom through Mexico,” the Iranian foreign ministry’s director general for parliament affairs, senior Iranian official Hossein Noushabadi, told the semi-official Tasnim news agency. The deportation, an uncommon instance of cooperation between the two countries, came after months of talks, according to the New York Times, which first reported the move. Noushabadi said the US was “planning to deport around 400 Iranians, most of whom entered the country illegally, in line with the new anti-immigrant approach of the US government.” The first group of 120 would reach Iran in the next one or two days, he said. The New York Times reported that a US-chartered flight took off from Louisiana on Monday and was scheduled to arrive in Iran via Qatar sometime on Tuesday. Some of the Iranians had volunteered to leave after being in detention centers for months, and some had not, the newspaper said. Noushabadi called on Washington to respect the rights of Iranian migrants in the United States.

Nigerian man arrested in India for allegedly duping over 100 women through app. A 29-year-old Nigerian national was arrested from west Delhi's Tilak Nagar for allegedly duping more than 100 women from across India by posing as a UK-based Korean businessman on a language exchange app. Stephane alias Dominic, was picked up from his rented accommodation, the police said on Monday, September 29. Explaining his modus operandi, police said Dominic used an app, which helps users practise languages by chatting with native speakers around the world, to target single women and gain their trust. He would then claim to be stranded at immigration with large-value cheques or documents pending clearance. His associates would impersonate officials over phone calls to demand money, which victims would transfer digitally. Dominic would allegedly introduce himself as Duck Young, a Korean jewellery businessman settled in the UK, and would lure women with false promises of personal relationships and business partnerships, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Shahdara) Prashant Gautam said. The matter came to light after a woman, Anjali, filed a complaint on September 24, alleging that she had been conned out of Rs 48,500. According to the police, she met "Duck Young" through the app, who later claimed he was detained at the Mumbai airport for travelling without a medical facility card.

Ghana Accused of Dumping West African Migrants Deported From U.S. in Togo. West African migrants deported from the United States to Ghana earlier this month have been transferred to neighbouring Togo by force, according to their lawyers, who are pursuing lawsuits in US, Ghanaian and regional courts alleging violations of fundamental human rights. Of 14 people who landed in Ghana from the US on 6 September, lawyers say 11 were kept in detention. After around two weeks at a military camp near Accra, six of them were allegedly taken across the border to Togo. "The deportees were forced by armed military guards to climb wire fences," said Samantha Hamilton, an attorney for Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC), a civil rights organisation that has filed a lawsuit in the US on behalf of the migrants. "A woman in her late 50s was thrown on the back of a motorcycle and smuggled across the border." The lawyers believe that Togo was chosen for its proximity. It is two and a half hours' drive from where the deportees were held in Ghana. Only two of the people removed between 18 and 19 September are Togolese nationals, according to their lawyers, the others hailing from other countries in West Africa. "A Malian woman who only speaks Bambara was left to fend for herself in Togo. She was sexually assaulted and now she's been kidnapped, and her kidnappers are demanding a $50,000 ransom from her family," Hamilton told RFI.

Tinubu Breaks Decades of Career Stagnation in Paramilitary Services – Interior Minister The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ending decades of career stagnation within Nigeria’s paramilitary services through reforms anchored on merit, welfare, and transparency. Speaking in Abuja during the decoration of newly appointed senior officers across the four agencies under the ministry — the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Federal Fire Service (FFS) — the minister said the promotions reflected competence and integrity. According to him, the new ranks, which include Deputy Comptroller Generals, Deputy Controller Generals, and Deputy Commandant Generals, were not merely promotions but presidential appointments based on performance and fairness. “Your appointment is not courtesy. If you are good enough to be a DCG, then you are good enough to be a CG,” Tunji-Ojo emphasized. He revealed that the officers’ examinations were independently conducted by the National Army Resource Centre and later ratified by the appropriate board. While federal character was applied to ensure inclusiveness, merit and seniority remained the guiding principles. The minister commended President Tinubu for reforms that have restored dignity to the services, noting that more than 52,000 officers have been promoted in just two years, reversing years of irregular promotions that forced many competent officers into premature retirement. Tunji-Ojo highlighted welfare improvements, including increased salaries, peculiar allowances, eradication of career stagnation, and approval of life pensions for retired DCGs and CGs. He also tasked the agencies with renewed responsibility: Immigration Service – secure and strengthen border governance. Correctional Service – transform prisons into centres of rehabilitation. Fire Service – evolve into a frontline rescue agency. NSCDC – safeguard critical national assets. “The time to rise to your responsibility is not tomorrow. It began yesterday. Be catalysts of change and show that the government did not make a mistake in entrusting you with these mandates,” he urged. The minister also underscored the fairness of the promotion system, recalling how a female officer narrowly missed promotion in the past by just 0.25 marks, but has now been elevated based on merit. Representing the newly decorated officers, Dr. Ngozi Odikpo expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his trust and vision, pledging that they would serve Nigeria with dedication, discipline, and integrity. She also lauded the Minister of Interior for his leadership and the CGs of the various services for their mentorship, assuring Nigerians that the new appointees would uphold the highest standards of service. Source: NAN

Japan Cancels Africa ‘Hometown’ Initiative Amid Backlash Over Nigeria Visa Claims. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has cancelled its “Africa Hometown” initiative, citing “misunderstandings and confusion” surrounding the project. JICA President Tanaka Akihiko announced the decision at a press briefing on Thursday, following controversy over claims that Japan planned to create a special visa category for Nigerians wishing to relocate to Kisarazu, the city designated as Nigeria’s “hometown.” On August 26, Japan dismissed the reports, which had been circulated in a statement by Abiodun Oladunjoye, Director of Information at the State House in Nigeria. The statement had suggested that Japan would grant special visas to “highly skilled, innovative, and talented young Nigerians” to live and work in Kisarazu. JICA explained that the very concept of designating Japanese cities as “hometowns” for African nations caused widespread confusion in Japan, while also placing an “excessive burden” on the four municipalities involved. The agency issued an apology to the cities: Kisarazu (Nigeria), Nagai (Tanzania), Sanjo (Ghana), and Imabari (Mozambique). The partnerships were first announced on August 22 during the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9). However, the move triggered a wave of discontent in Japan, with citizens raising concerns online about public safety, resource strain, and potential visa overstays. Protests soon followed, demanding the cancellation of the agreement. In a statement, JICA said it “takes this situation seriously” and, after consultations with stakeholders, decided to withdraw the initiative. The agency stressed that it has “never promoted immigration” and has no intention of doing so in the future. Despite the cancellation, JICA reaffirmed its commitment to fostering international exchange and cooperation with African nations.