Yearly Archives: 2025

Ukraine receives bodies of 1,000 soldiers from Russia

Posted on by
Reply

Ukraine has received the bodies of 1,212 of its fallen soldiers from Russia after days of dispute, the agency dealing with prisoners of war in Kiev said on Wednesday.

The soldiers died in battles in Russia’s Kursk region and the Ukrainian regions of Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhya and Kherson, the agency said.

Russia has for days accused Ukraine of failing to accept the remains, and called on Kiev to comply with agreements reached between the warring parties in talks in Istanbul at the beginning of the month.

Read Also: Facts about arrested Telegram CEO Pavel Durov you should know

Russia transported the bodies ready for handover over the weekend in what it termed a “humanitarian action,’’ while Ukraine said that no agreement on a handover date had been reached.

The Istanbul talks provided for the return of the remains of more than 6,000 fallen soldiers from Russia to Ukraine.

It was not clear whether Russia would also receive the remains of its soldiers killed in Ukraine.

(dpa/NAN)

Alleged 27bn fraud: Court overrules Darius Ishaku’s admissibility objection

Posted on by
Reply

 A Federal Capital Territory (FCT), High Court, Maitama, on Wednesday overruled the objection raised by the former Taraba Governor, Darius Ishaku on admissibility of some documents.

Ishaku is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on behalf of the Federal Government, alongside Bello Yero, former permanent secretary, Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in the state.

The defendants were charged with 15-count-charge of criminal breach of trust, conspiracy and conversion of public funds to the tune of N27 billion.

They, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Earlier, Paul Ogbole SAN, counsel for Ishaku had objected to a document (statement) tended to be tendered by the prosecution through the first prosecution witness (PW1).

Justice Slyvanius Oriji, however, overruled the objection by Paul Ogbole (SAN), Ishaku’s counsel for not meeting the required provisions of the law.

He held that the statement of the PW1 at the EFCC upon his arrest could not contravene the law because he was not the suspect or defendant in this case.

“The provisions of Sections 15(4) and 17(2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 were made by the legislature to complement Section 29(1) of the Evidence Act,” he held.

He wondered if the counsel would like to be granted trial-within-trial to ascertain the voluntariness of the statement.

“The objection is overruled and the statement received in evidence,’’ he stated.

He subsequently, adjourned the matter until July 2 for cross examination of PW1 and continuation of the matter.

Read Also: Appeal Court affirms Olaoye as Soun of Ogbomoso

At the resumed hearing in the matter on Wednesday, the PW1 Ismail Lawal, former personal assistant to Ishaku concluded his evidence.

The prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), had wanted to tender the statement of the witness made at the EFCC office.

But Ogbole, objected arguing that the witness (Lawal) made the statement under caution, adding that there was no legal presence, no video recording.

He cited provisions of Sections 17(2) and 15(2) of Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).

Adeola Adedipe (SAN), however, did not object to the admissibility of the document.

Responding, Jacobs referred the court to section 237 of the Evidence Act which he said rendered admissible under ACJA void.

He said that the statement of the witness was consistent with his testimony.

He added that it must not be a lawyer that should be present at the making of a statement, but anyone of the person’s choice.

He informed the court that in the instant case, that the friend of the witness, one Omotosho was present.

Jacobs, therefore, urged that the court should admit the document in evidence.

Earlier in his evidence led by Jacobs, the witness told the court that based on the instructions of the former Ishaku he disbursed money severally to different sources.

He said that he went to the permanent secretary at Jalingo, Chindo Audu liaison officer in Abuja, Dauda Moses to pick money.

He added that the money was usually in cash ranging from N20 million to N100 million and sent to different sources in line to the ex-governor’s instructions.

Lawal said that he also collected money from Taiwo Jones and when not around from John Olumba and one Emmanuel Uwazurike and sometimes he received the monies via his account.

(NAN)

17 Police officers injured in 2nd night of Ballymena riots

Posted on by
Reply

Seventeen police officers have been injured following a second consecutive night of sustained violence in Ballymena, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has confirmed.

PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher warned that the ongoing rioting “risks undermining” the criminal justice process into an alleged sexual assault involving a teenage girl in the County Antrim town over the weekend.

Stormont ministers issued an urgent appeal for calm, insisting that the justice process must be allowed to run its course.

In a joint statement, ministers from across the power-sharing executive said those involved in the disorder “have nothing to offer society but division and destruction.”

Police reported that officers came under sustained attack for several hours, with petrol bombs, heavy masonry, bricks, and fireworks being thrown at them in the Clonavon Terrace area of Ballymena on Tuesday night.

Riot police were deployed, with officers using plastic baton rounds, water cannon, and dog units to try to disperse the crowds.

Read Also: Police arrest three suspects over attack on NANS members

Sporadic disorder was also reported in Newtownabbey, Carrickfergus, and north Belfast.

The violence followed a peaceful protest earlier in the week, held in support of the family of a girl who was allegedly sexually assaulted in the area.

Two teenage boys have been charged in connection with the case and spoke to the court via a Romanian interpreter.

During Tuesday night’s unrest in Ballymena, multiple businesses and homes were damaged, and several vehicles were set on fire. Police confirmed that:

Seventeen officers were injured, with some requiring hospital treatment.

Five individuals were arrested on suspicion of riotous behaviour and remain in custody.

One male was arrested for disorderly behaviour on O’Neill Road in Newtownabbey.

Roads in affected areas were temporarily closed to ensure public safety but have since been reopened.

Fifteen officers were also injured during similar violence in Ballymena on Monday night.
(dpa/NAN)

Easiest countries for Nigerians to get Visa

Posted on by
Reply

For many Nigerians, securing a visa can be a complex and uncertain process, as approval rates vary significantly from one country to another. While some nations are known for strict and often discouraging visa policies, others are more accommodating and tend to approve a higher percentage of applications from Nigerian citizens.

Ensuring that all documentation is accurate, complete, and submitted in line with official embassy requirements greatly increases the chances of success. Seeking expert guidance or consulting embassy resources can also make a big difference.

These countries provide Nigerian travelers with better prospects when it comes to obtaining visas, particularly for tourism, study, or family visits. However, success still depends on the strength and completeness of each application.

Here are easiest countries for Nigerians to get Visa

1. Portugal is recognized for its welcoming environment and smooth visa process, offering Nigerian applicants a relatively high success rate.

2. Iceland boasts transparent and efficient procedures, contributing to consistently high approval rates for Nigerians.

Read Also: 12 European countries that offer Nigerians easy visa

3. Finland offers one of the most organized visa application experiences among Schengen countries, with a solid approval track record.

4. Estonia stands out for its digital-friendly and simplified system, which has led to increased visa success for Nigerian travelers.

5. Lithuania‘s clear and straightforward process makes it one of the more accessible destinations for Nigerians seeking entry.

6. Slovakia maintains flexible and supportive visa policies that result in higher-than-average approval rates.

7. Latvia is known for its efficient procedures and openness to Nigerian applicants, improving approval odds.

8. Slovenia has a reputation for being visa-friendly, thanks to a streamlined and applicant-focused process.

9. Greece remains an attractive destination with a high approval rate for Nigerian visa seekers.

10. Poland is regarded as one of the most approachable Schengen countries for Nigerians, with policies that support easier approvals.

11. Italy generally applies less rigid criteria compared to some of its Schengen counterparts, leading to better outcomes for Nigerian applicants.

12. Spain, a favorite travel destination, rounds out the list with consistently high visa approval rates for Nigerians.

New Zealand unveils 10-year visa for parents of migrants

Posted on by
Reply

New Zealand is set to launch a new visa initiative aimed at helping migrant families stay connected by introducing a long-term visitor visa for parents of temporary residents. Known as the Parent Boost Visa, the scheme will take effect from September 29, 2025.

The visa allows eligible parents to stay in New Zealand for up to 10 years. Initially, it grants a five-year stay, with the option to apply for a second five-year term if the applicant continues to meet eligibility criteria. Designed as a multiple-entry visa, it provides a flexible solution for extended family reunification, particularly supporting skilled migrants.

However, the visa does not offer a direct pathway to permanent residency. Those interested in settling permanently will still need to apply through other available avenues such as the Parent Resident Visa or the Parent Retirement Resident Visa.

Read Also: Seven Asian countries Nigerians can visit without visa

To qualify, applicants must be sponsored by a New Zealand citizen or resident. They are also required to have at least one year of comprehensive health insurance covering emergency medical care up to NZD 250,000. Health checks are mandatory both during the initial application and again in the third year of their stay, and proof of continuous insurance coverage must be maintained.

Applicants must also meet financial requirements, which can be fulfilled in several ways. Sponsors must earn at least the median wage to support one parent, or 1.5 times that amount to support two. Alternatively, the parent(s) may qualify based on a steady income equivalent to the New Zealand Superannuation rate or demonstrate savings of at least NZD 160,000 for a single applicant or NZD 250,000 for a couple.

The application costs NZD $3,000, which includes both the immigration fee and levy. Those eligible under the Pacific fee band will pay a discounted rate of NZD $2,450. An additional NZD $100 International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy is also required. A follow-up health assessment after three years will cost NZD $325 for most applicants, or NZD $240 for Pacific applicants.

The Parent Boost Visa offers significantly longer stays than traditional visitor visas, allowing families more time to care for aging parents, strengthen familial bonds, and build lasting connections in New Zealand. It also complements existing visa pathways for parents and grandparents, which are often limited by annual quotas.

Sanwo-Olu escorts Tinubu to airport amid reconciliation

Posted on by
Reply

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja after a two-week stay in Lagos, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu accompanying him to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Tuesday afternoon—signaling a possible end to their widely reported rift.

Tinubu had been in Lagos since May 27, participating in the 50th anniversary celebration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and observing the Eid al-Adha festival with the Muslim community.

However, during his stay, speculation about a strained relationship between the president and the Lagos governor dominated political discourse.

Read Also: JUST IN: Sanwo-Olu presents N3tr budget for 2025

The tension became evident on May 31 during the inauguration of Phase 1, Section 1 (30km, six lanes) of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. At the event, attended by several high-profile dignitaries—including former Senate President Ahmed Lawan and Governors Babagana Zulum (Borno), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), and Bassey Otu (Cross River)—Tinubu shook hands with each official in line. But when he reached Sanwo-Olu, the president appeared to snub him, bypassing the governor and instead greeting Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo, who stood next.

The perceived tension deepened on June 5 when Sanwo-Olu was conspicuously absent at the flag-off of the deep seaport access road reconstruction in the Epe-Ijebu Ode axis. Though his seat was labeled, it remained empty, while his deputy, Femi Hamzat, was seen seated behind it.

Reports suggest that Tinubu reconciled with Sanwo-Olu during a meeting with the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) on Sunday. During the meeting, the president was quoted as telling the governor that his “sins have been forgiven.”

The fallout is believed to have stemmed from the controversial impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly in February, following allegations of financial misconduct. Obasa was reinstated after 49 days, reportedly due to Tinubu’s intervention.

With Sanwo-Olu accompanying Tinubu to the airport, it appears both leaders may have moved past the dispute—at least for now.

APC chieftain Jesutega Onokpasa dies

Posted on by
Reply

Barrister Jesutega Onokpasa, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and political analyst, has reportedly passed away.

Onokpasa, a lawyer and member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council during the 2023 general elections, was said to have died on Monday under circumstances that have not yet been made public.

His passing was announced on Tuesday on X by pro-APC advocate Okezie Atani.

He wrote, “We lost Barr. Jesutega Onokpasa, may his soul rest in perfect peace.”

A Facebook page named Renewed Hope United Kingdom also wrote a tribute entitled “A Farewell to a Passionate Advocate: Honouring Jesutega Onokpasa’s Legacy” to announce the late APC chieftain’s demise.

Read Also: Former UK deputy PM John Prescott dies at 86

It wrote, “The passing of Barrister Jesutega Onokpasa is a profound loss to the Nigerian political and legal landscape. As a dedicated lawyer and political commentator, he was deeply engaged in shaping discourse and advocating for his beliefs.

“His contributions as a member of the APC Publicity Committee and the APC Presidential Campaign Council in 2023 reflected his commitment to his party and the nation. Onokpasa’s voice, whether in support or critique, was a vital part of Nigeria’s democratic conversation, and his absence will be deeply felt. May his family, friends, and colleagues find strength and solace in this difficult time.

“May His Soul Rest in Perfect Peace. Amen.”

Onokpasa became famous for his vocal support of President Bola Tinubu and regularly appeared on television to defend the APC-led administration.

Details Shortly…

JAMB Change of Course: Alternative courses you can study with low 2025 UTME score (140–180)

Posted on by
Reply

If you scored between 140 and 180 in your 2025 UTME? Don’t worry—your dreams of gaining admission into a Nigerian university, polytechnic, or college of education are still very much alive.

With the JAMB Change of Course option, candidates with lower UTME scores can switch to courses with lower cut-off marks, increasing their chances of securing admission.

Many reputable institutions across Nigeria—including state universities, polytechnics, and private universities—offer a variety of courses that accept UTME scores within this range.

Below is a categorized list of courses in Science, Arts, and Commercial fields that you can consider if your JAMB score falls between 140 and 180:

A. Science Courses (JAMB Score: 140–180)

Fisheries
Study of aquatic ecosystems, fish farming, and seafood production for food and commerce.

Agricultural Science
Covers crop cultivation, animal husbandry, soil science, and sustainable food systems.

Home Science and Nutrition
Focuses on healthy living, human nutrition, family resource management, and meal planning.

Animal Science
Deals with the biology, breeding, and welfare of livestock and domestic animals.

Botany
Scientific study of plants, including their anatomy, physiology, and ecological importance.

Anatomy
Provides foundational knowledge of the human body—ideal for careers in health sciences.

Marine Biology
Explores life in oceans and seas, studying marine organisms and ecosystems.

Read Also: NASS clears JAMB of alleged misappropriation

Zoology
Investigates animal behavior, classification, habitats, and evolution.

Science Laboratory Technology
Trains students in laboratory practices, diagnostics, and applied scientific research.

B. Art Courses (JAMB Score: 140–180)

Arabic Studies
Deep dive into Arabic language, literature, Islamic philosophy, and cultural heritage.

Archaeology
Study of ancient human civilizations through artifacts and historic ruins.

Christian Religious Studies (CRS)
Examines Christian doctrines, ethics, history, and theological principles.

Fine Arts
Includes painting, sculpture, drawing, and other visual art forms.

Drama / Performing Arts
Focuses on acting, directing, and stagecraft in theatre productions.

Theatre Arts
Broader scope involving playwriting, set design, costume design, and drama theory.

English Language
Covers grammar, literature, phonetics, linguistics, and effective communication.

French
Offers proficiency in the French language and understanding of Francophone cultures.

History and International Studies
Combines historical analysis with international relations, diplomacy, and global affairs.

Music
Covers music theory, instrumental skills, vocal training, and composition.

C. Commercial Courses (JAMB Score: 140–180)

Business Administration
Study of entrepreneurship, management, organizational behavior, and finance.

Public Administration
Focuses on governance, public policy, and the structure of public institutions.

Marketing
Covers sales strategies, consumer behavior, advertising, and market research.

Insurance
Teaches risk assessment, underwriting, and financial protection services.

Taxation
Focuses on tax policies, laws, planning, and revenue administration.

Criminology and Security Studies
Examines criminal behavior, law enforcement systems, and national security management.

Library and Information Science
Trains students in data management, cataloguing, and modern information systems.

Hospitality and Tourism Management
Covers hotel operations, travel planning, and customer service in the tourism industry.

Political Science
Studies political theories, government systems, policy analysis, and political behavior.

Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
Focuses on conflict management, peacebuilding, mediation, and societal harmony.

Six countries welcoming visitors with 10-year visa programmes

Posted on by
Reply

As global mobility becomes more essential for professionals, retirees, frequent travelers, and international investors, several countries have introduced long-term visa options—some lasting as long as 10 years. These programmes are designed to reduce the need for repeated visa applications while offering flexibility, ease of travel, and, in some cases, a path to permanent residency or citizenship.

Below are six top countries offering 10-year visa programmes and what applicants need to know:

1. China: 10-Year Multiple-Entry Visa for Tourists and Business Travelers

China provides a 10-year multiple-entry visa to citizens of select countries including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. This visa is available for tourism, business, or family visits. Although each stay is typically limited to 60 or 90 days, the convenience of not having to reapply for a visa before every trip is a major benefit. It is particularly useful for businesspeople with ongoing interests in China or families who travel back and forth frequently.

2. United States: B1/B2 Visas with Extended Validity

The United States issues B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourism) visas with a validity of up to 10 years, depending on the applicant’s nationality. These visas allow for multiple entries, with each visit capped at 180 days. While the visa does not permit employment or long-term residence, it offers considerable flexibility for travelers who need frequent access to the U.S. for conferences, tourism, or family visits.

Read Also: Seven Asian countries Nigerians can visit without visa

3. United Kingdom: Long-Term Standard Visitor Visa

The UK offers a Long-Term Standard Visitor visa valid for 2, 5, or 10 years. This visa is ideal for those who visit the UK regularly for tourism, family engagements, or short-term business meetings. Despite the long validity, each visit is limited to a maximum of six months. Applicants must demonstrate a consistent travel history and genuine reasons for frequent visits to be considered for the 10-year option.

4. Greece: Residency Through Investment with Pathway to Long-Term Stay

Greece offers a “Golden Visa” programme that grants five-year residency permits to non-EU nationals who invest at least €250,000 in real estate. While the initial permit is for five years, it is indefinitely renewable as long as the investment is maintained. Investors and their families may qualify for a long-term residence permit and eventually apply for citizenship after a sustained period of legal residence, paving the way for semi-permanent or permanent stay options over a 10-year horizon.

5. Cyprus: 10-Year Residence Through Investment Visa

Cyprus’s Golden Visa programme offers eligible investors and their families a residence permit valid for up to 10 years. To qualify, applicants typically invest in real estate, government bonds, or local businesses. While this visa does not automatically confer citizenship, it lays the groundwork for a future application after residing in Cyprus for at least seven years out of a 10-year period. The programme appeals to investors seeking long-term access to the European Union lifestyle and travel benefits.

6. Malaysia: ‘Malaysia My Second Home’ (MM2H) Visa Programme

Malaysia’s “Malaysia My Second Home” (MM2H) programme offers a renewable 10-year multiple-entry visa for foreign nationals who meet certain financial requirements. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum fixed income and show proof of liquid assets. Popular among retirees and digital nomads, the MM2H visa provides access to affordable living, quality healthcare, and a tropical environment. Recent revisions have increased the financial threshold, but the programme remains attractive for those seeking long-term residence in Southeast Asia.

PDP inaugurates 39 new BoT members

Posted on by
Reply

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday inaugurated 39 new members of it’s Board of Trusteees (BoT).

The BoT Chairman, Sen. Adolphus Wabara, while inaugurating the new members at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, said that they were nominees of states and zones.

Wabara said that the nomination of the new members was based on their dedication, experience and unwavering loyalty to the party.

He described the occasion as not only a celebration of a new beginning, but also a reaffirmation of collective commitment to the values and principles of PDP.

The BoT chairman urged the new members to consider their appointments as a call to service and uphold the integrity, unity and vision of the party as they strived for a prosperous and democratic country.

“Your role as members of the board is not only to guide and support the leadership of the party but also to act as a stabilising force in times of challenges and uncertainties.

“Today’s inauguration is particularly significant as we prepare to navigate the evolving political landscape and work tirelessly to restore PDP as the foremost party in Nigeria.

“The task ahead is demanding, but with unity, determination and unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy, we shall overcome,” he said.

Wabara also reminded the new remembers that their presence on the board was not only a position of honour but a position of responsibility.

Read Also: PDP condemns Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension

“Let us continue to work together to uphold the vision of our founding fathers and build a stronger, more inclusive and more progressive PDP,” he said.

Speaking earlier. the acting PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum, congratulated the new members, saying that the party would be looking forward for more members on the BoT.

Damagum, represented by the acting National Secretary, Setonji Koshoedo, assured that the National Working Committee would continue to support the board.

Speaking on the appointment, a new BoT member, Jones Onyeriri, said that the composition of  the board was a reflection of the party’s strength.

“It isn’t a big problem for some people that are defecting to other parties; even Jesus Christ, at a time, had some of his disciples who defected.

“So, for me, it is a sign that we are nearer to our crown. We have taken over and still strong.

“Nobody is sabotaging the party. Please trust me on this, as anyone that is doing that is already out of the party,” Onyeriri said.

Another new BoT member, Eddy Olafeso, said that the inauguration of the board was a regeneration of the glorious past, pledging that they would work together to ensure that the party continued to function as a strong opposition with new ideas, new people and new orientation.

“With the quality of leadership and the heritage of the past, we can make Nigeria better than it is today,” he said.

Asked why he resigned his position as Vice-Chairman, South-West when he went to contest for Ondo governorship election, Olafeso said that he did that as a democrat and loyal member of the party.

“There’s no reason for me to hold the party down. If I want to go for another position, I must leave that position as directed by the constitution. Things will work better.

“Discipline is part of democracy; commitment is part of democracy. We must adjust to the way we want to act.

“I did the needful; I’m loyal to my party. I can’t take my party to court. I’ll continue to serve it and do my best to solve the problems within the party,” Olafeso said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that other members inaugurated included: Labaran Maku, Ibrahim Shekarau, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Samuel Ortom and Nimota Ibrahim.

(NAN)