Several African nations have taken firm reciprocal actions against the United States following visa and travel restrictions imposed by the administration of President Donald Trump. Mali and Burkina Faso are the most recent countries to restrict the entry of American citizens, citing the principle of reciprocity after visa limitations were placed on their nationals. The announcements were made separately by the foreign ministers of both countries, confirming that United States passport holders would now face the same treatment their citizens encounter when attempting to enter the US. With these developments, the number of African countries that have imposed visa bans or entry restrictions on Americans has increased to four. Earlier, on June 6, 2025, Chad officially suspended the issuance of visas to United States citizens. The decision was described as a direct response to visa restrictions earlier imposed on Chadian nationals by the US government. Chadian President Mahamat Deby made the announcement through his official social media channels, explaining that the suspension aligned with international diplomatic norms based on reciprocity. According to him, the move was not merely administrative but rooted in protecting the country’s dignity and national pride. Similarly, on December 25, 2025, Niger announced a complete halt to visa issuance for US citizens and barred American nationals from entering the country. In its official communication, the Nigerien government stated that the suspension was total, indefinite, and applied to all categories of visas for United States citizens. Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister, Karamoko Traore, also confirmed his country’s position in a statement released on a Tuesday. He explained that Burkina Faso’s action followed recent US measures that restricted entry for Burkinabe citizens. According to him, the government had decided to apply equal visa conditions to American nationals in response. Mali echoed the same stance in its official statement, stressing that the decision was in direct alignment with the actions taken by US authorities. The Malian government stated that American citizens would now be subject to the same requirements and conditions imposed on Malian nationals seeking entry into the United States, with immediate effect. Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, and Niger share common geopolitical characteristics, including being landlocked West African countries with a shared history of French colonial rule. The diplomatic tension stems from Proclamation 10998 issued on June 4, 2025, which became effective on June 9, 2025. Under this proclamation, the United States suspended entry for immigrants and non-immigrants from twelve countries. These countries included Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Later, on December 16, 2025, President Trump expanded the scope of the travel ban, increasing the number of affected countries to nineteen. The restrictions also extended to travel documents issued by the Palestinian Authority. Nationals of the affected countries were barred from entering the United States unless they were already in the country with valid visas or qualified for specific exemptions. These exemptions applied to categories such as diplomats, students, athletes, and lawful permanent residents. According to the US administration, the policy was part of broader efforts to strengthen immigration controls and tighten entry standards for security and regulatory reasons. In another proclamation dated December 16, 2025, and effective from January 1, 2026, eight additional countries were added to the list. These included Burkina Faso, Laos, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, and Syria. Furthermore, twenty countries were placed under a partial ban that limited the entry of both immigrants and non-immigrants starting January 1, 2026. Among the affected nations was Nigeria, alongside Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Nigeria Not in the Same Category as Sahel Nations – Experts Diplomatic analysts have described the responses by Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, and Niger as legitimate exercises of national sovereignty. A former Nigerian Consul to Cameroon, Ambassador Rasheed Akinkuolie, stated that both Mali and Burkina Faso had every right to take reciprocal measures against the United States by restricting entry for American citizens. He noted that relations between the US and the two countries were already strained, adding that American citizens were unlikely to travel to regions facing security challenges and ongoing insurgency. Akinkuolie also pointed out that Nigeria’s situation differs significantly. According to him, Nigeria maintains strong strategic ties with the United States, particularly in the fight against terrorism. He explained that Nigeria relies on international cooperation, including US support, to combat the Boko Haram insurgency, which makes reciprocal bans impractical. He further emphasized that Nigeria seeks foreign investment and maintains diplomatic flexibility, making it difficult to take actions that could strain relations with major global partners. Speaking on the issue, the Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Professor Eghosa Osaghae, said Mali and Burkina Faso acted based on what best suited their national interests. He explained that the international system operates under established conventions, laws, and diplomatic protocols that guide how countries respond to bilateral and multilateral issues. Osaghae stressed that Nigeria’s diplomatic posture cannot be compared with that of its West African counterparts. He noted that Nigeria’s relationship with the United States differs significantly from those of Mali, Niger, or Burkina Faso, especially regarding security cooperation and foreign policy objectives. According to him, Nigeria’s foreign relations are driven by national interest, and the country has clearly defined its diplomatic options. He added that Nigeria has consistently pursued partnerships and friendly relations worldwide rather than adversarial engagements. The NIIA Director-General concluded by stating that while reciprocity remains a valid principle in diplomacy, it should be applied in a way that produces mutually beneficial outcomes rather than escalating tensions. Contact Information ? Email: [email protected] Stay Updated Stay informed and ahead of the curve.Follow LMSINT MEDIA on WhatsApp to receive real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Never miss an important headline—join today.
A retired Nigerian Army officer, Major Toye Akinlade (rtd), has instituted a legal action against the Nigerian Army alongside two senior-ranking officers, accusing them of official misconduct, abuse of authority, unlawful redeployment, and compelling him to remain in active duty even after he formally tendered his resignation. The matter, filed before the National Industrial Court sitting in Abuja, is referenced as Suit No: NICN/ABJ/379/2025. In the suit, Akinlade is urging the court to affirm that his resignation became effective immediately upon acknowledgment by the appropriate authorities and that every directive, posting, or disciplinary step taken against him afterward was illegal, unconstitutional, and a violation of his fundamental rights. The named respondents in the action include the Nigerian Army, Colonel Samson O. Okebukola, and Colonel D. O. Ehicheoya. According to court filings obtained by reporters, Akinlade disclosed that despite submitting a written resignation dated November 11, 2025, addressed to the Chief of Army Staff and copied to relevant military offices, he was allegedly redeployed without consent and subjected to disciplinary procedures that he claims lacked due process. Among the seven reliefs presented for judicial determination, the claimant is seeking a declaration that his resignation letter legally took effect from the date it was received by the respondents and that any subsequent exercise of command authority over him was null. He is also asking the court to invalidate a query dated December 12, 2025, which was allegedly issued following the directive of the third respondent after his resignation had already been submitted. Akinlade insists that the query holds no legal standing and should be set aside entirely. In addition, the former officer is contesting a letter of displeasure served on him, which reportedly imposed sanctions such as reprimand and admonishment. He maintains that the punishment was enforced without the constitution of a Board of Inquiry or investigative panel, contrary to established military administrative procedures. Court documents reveal that the disciplinary letter was allegedly issued “without any inquiry or investigative process establishing wrongdoing against the Applicant.” Through an affidavit supporting his claims, Akinlade narrated that after raising objections and seeking redress concerning the disciplinary measures, he was redeployed from Jos to Zaria, a move he described as inconsistent with accepted Army protocols. He stated clearly in his affidavit:“That the Applicant, being dissatisfied with the excesses and abuse of official authority exercised by the 2nd Respondent without adequate supervision from superior command, submitted his resignation letter.” Despite his resignation, Akinlade alleged that he was ordered to resume duty at Basawa, Zaria, and continued to be treated as an active officer, a situation he described as unlawful, coercive, and oppressive. The claimant further accused military authorities of denying him medical leave after he reportedly collapsed during official duty and required hospitalization. He disclosed that medical evaluations showed his diastolic blood pressure dropped to 60, and argued that the refusal to permit him adequate medical rest amounted to a tortious violation of his rights. As part of his reliefs, Akinlade is requesting the court to declare that his resignation “took effect immediately upon receipt by the Respondents, thereby terminating his service with the 1st Respondent.” He is also asking the court to compel the Nigerian Army to process and release his pension and service entitlements, noting that he had served the institution for over a decade. Additionally, he seeks permission to retrieve personal belongings from his last official residence. Beyond declaratory reliefs, Akinlade is demanding ₦50 million in damages for alleged unlawful restriction, psychological trauma, and infringement of his constitutional rights, alongside ₦1 million as litigation costs. In his written submission before the court, the retired major emphasized that resignation from military service remains a constitutionally protected right, stressing that “military service is voluntary and cannot be equated to modern-day servitude.” He relied on Section 306 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which states that a resignation becomes effective once the written notice is received by the authority to whom it is addressed. He therefore urged the court to rule that upon receipt of his resignation letter, the respondents became legally barred from further compelling him to perform military duties or subject him to internal disciplinary mechanisms. As of the time of filing this report, the National Industrial Court has not yet scheduled a hearing date for the matter. Contact Information ? Email: [email protected] Stay Updated Stay informed and ahead of the curve.Follow LMSINT MEDIA on WhatsApp to receive real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Never miss an important headline—join today.
Kindly Share:
A mental health survivor, Tony Ademiluyi, has officially launched a new website focused on addressing and reducing the stigma associated with mental illness across Africa. According to a statement made available to Sunday PUNCH, Ademiluyi disclosed that the platform, known as “Africa Mental Health,” was launched in December 2025. The initiative was created in response to increasing concerns about the worsening condition of mental health care, awareness, and understanding on the African continent. He explained that mental illness remains widely misunderstood in many African societies, where it is often wrongly interpreted as a spiritual affliction rather than a medical condition. In several cases, individuals living with mental health conditions are believed to be under spiritual attack or influenced by supernatural forces. As a result of these misconceptions, many patients face severe discrimination from their families and communities. They are frequently taken from one spiritual centre to another instead of receiving proper medical attention. In some extreme situations, individuals are subjected to degrading and inhumane treatment, including being restrained with chains or physically abused in an attempt to force perceived “demons” out of their bodies. Ademiluyi stated that the Africa Mental Health website was created to correct these harmful narratives and promote accurate information about mental health conditions. The platform aims to educate the public that mental illness is a medical condition, just like other chronic illnesses, and should be treated as such. He further explained that although mental illnesses may not always have a permanent cure, they are effectively manageable with the right medication, medical supervision, and supportive lifestyle. He compared mental health conditions to illnesses such as diabetes or hypertension, which also require lifelong treatment but still allow patients to live productive and fulfilling lives when properly managed. The website also provides a safe space for individuals affected by mental illness to share their experiences. These personal stories are published using pseudonyms to ensure confidentiality and protect the identities of contributors. In addition, the platform features opinion articles and insights from mental health professionals, advocates, and relevant stakeholders who are actively involved in mental health awareness and care. Through education, storytelling, and expert perspectives, Africa Mental Health seeks to shift public perception, encourage empathy, and promote dignity for people living with mental health conditions across Africa. Contact Information ? Email: [email protected] Stay Updated Stay informed and ahead of the curve.Follow LMSINT MEDIA on WhatsApp to receive real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Never miss an important headline—join today.
Kindly Share:
The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has weighed in on the growing conversation surrounding prophetic declarations and their influence, following a controversial prediction connected to Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign. During a recent church programme held at the RCCG Redemption City, Pastor Adeboye addressed the congregation on the importance of spiritual wisdom and discernment when reacting to prophetic messages. He expressed concern about the increasing circulation of dramatic and questionable prophecies, urging believers to be cautious rather than emotionally driven by every spiritual claim they encounter. Although no names were directly mentioned in his address, Adeboye’s comments clearly alluded to a prophecy that gained significant attention ahead of the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco. The prediction, widely attributed to Primate Elijah Ayodele, reportedly advised that Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman should be excluded from Nigeria’s squad if the team hoped to succeed in the competition. The prophecy quickly spread across social media platforms, with many interpreting it as a warning of potential failure or poor performance should the Atalanta forward be selected. The message sparked mixed reactions among football fans and faith observers, adding to the long-standing debate about the role of prophecy in sports. Contrary to those expectations, events on the pitch unfolded differently. Ademola Lookman played a decisive role in Nigeria’s AFCON campaign, scoring the match-winning goal in the Super Eagles’ 2–1 opening victory against Tanzania. He followed that performance with another standout display against Tunisia, where he found the net once and provided two assists in a thrilling 3–2 win that confirmed Nigeria’s qualification for the knockout stage. Reflecting on the situation, Pastor Adeboye shared his reaction upon encountering the prophecy. He explained that he found the outcome ironic, considering how the events played out on the field. He told the congregation that he laughed after reading a statement suggesting that Nigeria could only win if a specific player was dropped, only for that same individual to score the decisive goal after being selected. According to him, the outcome served as a reminder that God’s glory can manifest beyond human expectations. While emphasizing that genuine prophecy remains an important part of Christian faith, Adeboye cautioned against blindly accepting every declaration labeled as divine. He highlighted that true spiritual breakthroughs come through authentic divine guidance, not through exaggerated or attention-seeking proclamations designed to stir public reaction. Drawing from biblical principles, he advised believers to show respect and wisdom when dealing with prophets who are genuinely sent by God, while also being mindful that not everyone claiming prophetic authority speaks under divine instruction. He clarified that his message was not aimed at individuals seeking relevance through self-promotion. Pastor Adeboye also used the opportunity to clarify his own spiritual office. He stated clearly that he does not identify as a prophet but as a pastor, explaining that while God may speak to him occasionally, his primary calling remains pastoral leadership. He added that the message shared during the programme was one that many listeners would remember. His remarks come at a time when discussions around faith, prophecy, and sports continue to intensify in Nigeria, especially during high-pressure tournaments such as the AFCON, where emotions and national expectations often run high. Meanwhile, Primate Elijah Ayodele has defended his earlier statements, insisting that his comments were taken out of context. He maintained that the prophecy should be assessed based on the overall outcome of the tournament rather than isolated matches, urging the public to consider the broader picture before drawing conclusions. Contact Information ? Email: [email protected] Stay Updated Stay informed and ahead of the curve.Follow LMSINT MEDIA on WhatsApp to receive real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Never miss an important headline—join today.
Kindly Share:
The Lagos State Government has officially set up a Technical Recovery and Demolition Committee to oversee the controlled demolition of the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Building, which was severely damaged by fire on Lagos Island. The move comes as emergency operations continue to stabilize the precarious structure, ensuring public safety and mitigating further risks. This decision follows a second inspection of the site by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on January 2, 2026, according to an update released by the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS). The newly established committee, led by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, is tasked with creating and executing a meticulously planned demolition strategy for the GNI Building and its surrounding environment. Authorities emphasized that the demolition process would prioritize the safety of emergency personnel and the general public. Current Status of the Fire-Damaged GNI Building Officials have reported that the site remains highly unstable due to extensive debris and structural compromise caused by the fire. In a statement signed by LSFRS Controller General Margaret Adeseye, the area was described as “extremely sensitive and volatile,” with large volumes of rubble still present. She highlighted that intermittent fire pockets continue to smolder within the debris. These fires are fueled not by the building itself but by combustible materials such as textiles, clothing, and stored goods that were buried under the rubble. Accessing these hotspots requires specialized technical planning and careful execution. “These materials are deeply buried, and handling them demands extreme caution and professional expertise,” the statement read. Authorities further clarified that while these smoldering pockets do not immediately threaten neighboring structures, uncoordinated debris removal could trigger additional collapse due to the weakened foundation. Some debris currently provides unintentional structural support, making precision critical. Adherence to International Disaster Response Standards The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that all ongoing operations align with international disaster response protocols, emphasizing responder safety above all else. Experts noted that incidents of this magnitude could take weeks or even months to fully resolve, depending on structural assessments and safety requirements. The affected market and surrounding areas remain completely closed to the public, with access strictly limited to authorized personnel. Additionally, an information desk has been set up at the site to assist families, traders, and other stakeholders with inquiries. Casualties and Search Operations Preliminary reports indicate eight fatalities, with five victims identified and three yet to be identified. Fortunately, 13 people were rescued alive. Search operations continue in debris sections deemed safe, as emergency teams work to ensure no additional victims remain trapped. Fire Safety Violations and Structural Risks Investigations have revealed significant fire safety violations within the GNI Building, including: These hazardous conditions can cause spontaneous combustion and severe heat accumulation even in the absence of an external ignition source. Public Assurance and Continued Emergency Operations Controller General Margaret Adeseye reassured Lagos residents that emergency and recovery operations will continue until all risks are completely neutralized. “All actions are deliberate, professional, and driven by safety considerations. Operations will continue until ground zero is fully assessed, and the incident is conclusively resolved,” she stated. Residents are urged to continue observing safety regulations and avoid the affected areas to allow emergency responders to conduct their operations efficiently.
Kindly Share:
The Kano State government has officially clarified that it has no involvement in any planned activities reportedly linked to the Nasarawa Palace Emir, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero. The statement was released by Malam Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the Director-General of Media and Publicity to the Kano State Governor, via his verified Facebook page. This clarification came in response to circulating reports suggesting that a gathering associated with the Nasarawa Palace was being organised in collaboration with the Kano State Government and its affiliates. These claims sparked concern among loyalists of the Emir of Kano at Kofar Kudu, Malam Muhammadu Sanusi II, who have closely followed the ongoing emirate dispute. In addressing the situation, Malam Sanusi Bature firmly dismissed the circulating narratives, labeling them as unfounded and false information. He stressed that the state government has no connection with any Nasarawa Palace event and urged citizens to disregard such misleading reports. The longstanding Kano Emirate dispute, which involves Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II and Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, has significantly divided the region. Following the electoral victory of Kano Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Sanusi II was reinstated as the Emir of Kano, with the state government officially recognizing his position. Meanwhile, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero has garnered support from certain quarters within the Federal Government, further intensifying the division. Recent political developments, including reports of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf potentially decamping to the All Progressives Congress (APC), suggest that the emirate dispute could evolve in a new direction in the near future. Political analysts argue that this may lead to shifts in alliances that could influence the traditional leadership dynamics in Kano State. The Kano State Government’s official clarification reinforces its commitment to maintaining transparency and public trust amid ongoing political tensions. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to rely on verified government statements and official channels for accurate information.
Kindly Share:
In a major political development in Rivers State, the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress has formally shifted its allegiance from the current Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. This decisive move signals a significant realignment of political loyalty within the Ijaw community in the state. The announcement was made by the congress chairman, Senator George Sekibo, during Wike’s “thank you” visit to Okrika Local Government Area on Saturday. Sekibo described the ongoing feud between Wike and Fubara as “very unfortunate,” emphasizing that the Ijaw people have never been ungrateful for the support they have received in the past. Wike’s Role in Fubara’s Emergence Recalling history, Sekibo highlighted how Wike played a crucial role in supporting Fubara, an Ijaw son, in his successful bid to become the Governor of Rivers State. The chairman stressed that the Ijaw people remain appreciative of Wike’s past efforts. “Please don’t consider us ungrateful. Ijaw people are known for their gratitude. That is precisely why we have chosen to abandon him [Fubara] and pledge our loyalty to you [Wike]. You have done a great deal for the Ijaw community in Rivers, and we will continue to follow your guidance,” Sekibo declared. Local Government Leaders Align with Wike Adding to this political shift, Akuro Tobin, chairman of Okrika Local Government Council, referred to Wike as his “political godfather.” Tobin lauded Wike for supporting numerous sons and daughters from Okrika LGA to secure key political appointments and elected offices across the state. He assured the minister that the people of Okrika LGA—men, women, and youth—stand firmly behind him and President Bola Tinubu, demonstrating unwavering political solidarity. Wike Appreciates Loyalty In response, Minister Wike expressed gratitude to the Ijaw people for their support, emphasizing the importance of backing leaders with integrity and proven character. He also acknowledged President Tinubu as a leader who honors his commitments, urging residents to continue supporting trustworthy and competent politicians. This alignment marks a significant shift in Rivers State politics, reflecting broader dynamics in regional loyalty and influence among key communities. Political analysts suggest that the Ijaw Congress’s decision could have implications for upcoming local and national elections.
Kindly Share:
France national team manager, Didier Deschamps, has excluded Nigeria’s Super Eagles from his list of top contenders to lift the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy. The experienced French tactician, who currently oversees the France national side, identified three African nations he believes stand out as strong favourites for the ongoing continental competition. According to Deschamps, Morocco, Egypt, and Cameroon possess the squad depth and player quality capable of delivering the title. Despite the Super Eagles’ history and reputation in African football, Deschamps did not include Nigeria among his preferred teams. His assessment focused largely on the calibre of players and overall balance within the selected squads. As the tournament progresses into the Round of 16 stage, the identified teams are preparing for crucial knockout fixtures. Cameroon is scheduled to clash with South Africa, Egypt will compete against the Republic of Benin, while tournament hosts Morocco are set to face Tanzania in their next encounter. During an interview with Asharq Sports, Deschamps emphasized his admiration for African football as a whole. He acknowledged the competitiveness of the tournament and expressed neutrality while sharing his personal assessment. “I have respect for every African team, and I hope the most deserving side wins. I do not want to create jealousy,” Deschamps stated. However, when asked to clearly name teams he believes could go all the way, the former World Cup-winning coach did not hesitate. His response highlighted Egypt, Cameroon, and Morocco as the nations most likely to claim the prestigious AFCON title.
Kindly Share:
MC Fish, a popular Nigerian MC and hype man, has finally shared his side of the story regarding his relationship and now-ended marriage with Nollywood actress Anita Joseph. The entertainer made this known on Saturday through a message posted on his Instagram story, where he addressed various allegations circulating online about his marriage to the actress. According to reports monitored by LMSINT MEDIA, Anita Joseph had earlier informed the public about the end of her five-year marriage to MC Fish. The announcement was made on December 23, 2025, via her official Instagram page, where she confirmed that the relationship had come to a close. Shortly after the divorce disclosure, several unverified claims began spreading across social media platforms. These rumours alleged that the actress was financially responsible for MC Fish throughout their marriage and that she single-handedly catered for his needs. Reacting strongly to what he described as misleading narratives, MC Fish dismissed the claims and clarified how their relationship began. He emphasized that contrary to popular belief, he did not initiate the relationship. In his Instagram story, the MC stated that he was actively working as a hype man when Anita Joseph expressed interest in him. According to his explanation, the actress was the one who made the first move, which eventually led to their romantic involvement and later marriage. He wrote in Pidgin English, explaining that he was busy doing his job when he was approached, stressing that the story being told online does not reflect reality. He further expressed disappointment over how the end of the marriage quickly turned into allegations about financial dependency. MC Fish also challenged the claims that he was being fed or sponsored by the actress, daring her or anyone else to openly confirm such accusations if they were true. His reaction suggests frustration over how personal matters have been twisted into public assumptions following the separation. As discussions continue online, the situation has drawn widespread attention from fans and followers of both public figures. However, neither party has released additional detailed statements beyond what has already been shared on social media.
Kindly Share:
A civil society organisation, the Civil Rights Network on Accountability (CRNA), has strongly criticised Nigeria’s fiscal leadership and urged the National Assembly to pass a vote of no confidence on the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and the Accountant-General of the Federation, Shamsedeen Babatunde Ogunjimi, over what it described as a complete breakdown in budget execution. In a statement released in Abuja on Tuesday, and jointly signed by the group’s President, Chief Adekunle Ogunsiwaju, and its National Secretary, Nkiru Okoye, the organisation expressed deep concern over the failure to implement even a minimal portion of the 2025 national budget, months after the fiscal year commenced. According to CRNA, the inability of the finance ministry and the office of the accountant-general to activate any measurable percentage of the approved budget amounts to gross incompetence and represents a serious violation of public trust. The group described the situation as an alarming collapse of fiscal coordination at the core of government operations. The organisation warned that institutions responsible for managing public finances have instead become barriers to governance, stressing that the finance ministry and the treasury should function as engines for national development, not obstacles to service delivery. CRNA stated that the continued delay in implementing the 2025 budget is unjustifiable and reflects a lack of coordination, accountability, and transparency in the handling of public resources. Budget implementation, the group emphasised, is not a symbolic or ceremonial process but a fundamental pillar of governance. It noted that delays at the treasury level have direct consequences, including stalled capital projects, unpaid government obligations, rising frustration among citizens, and worsening economic hardship nationwide. The group further argued that when officials tasked with managing the nation’s finances are unable to activate even the most basic components of a legally approved budget, the issue transcends administrative failure and becomes a full-blown governance crisis. CRNA questioned how key fiscal officials have spent the months since the budget was signed into law, while Nigerians continue to face economic strain, inflationary pressure, and uncertainty. The organisation also cautioned that President Bola Tinubu’s decision to retain both officials despite what it called persistent failures could significantly damage the administration’s credibility and derail its economic reform agenda. According to CRNA, if the current fiscal leadership remains in office, the March 31 deadline for partial implementation of the 2025 budget risks collapsing entirely. The group argued that fiscal discipline and economic reforms cannot succeed under officials who have failed to demonstrate urgency, competence, or capacity. CRNA further accused both offices of operating an opaque system marked by weak communication and poor public accountability. It lamented the absence of clear timelines for budget execution, lack of transparency in cash releases, and failure to provide Nigerians with credible explanations for the prolonged paralysis. The group stressed that such dysfunction would be unacceptable in any serious democracy and undermines public confidence in government institutions. Calling on the Senate and the House of Representatives, CRNA urged lawmakers to exercise their constitutional oversight responsibilities decisively. It argued that a vote of no confidence would send a clear message that fiscal recklessness and administrative inertia will no longer be tolerated. The organisation maintained that such an action should not be viewed as political hostility but as a constitutional duty to protect the interests of Nigerian citizens when critical state institutions fail to perform. CRNA warned that continued paralysis in budget execution would worsen poverty levels, delay critical infrastructure projects, and further erode public trust, particularly at a time when Nigerians are already struggling with unemployment and rising living costs. The group concluded by stressing that the issue is not about political rivalry but about competence, accountability, and responsible governance, insisting that Nigeria cannot afford fiscal leadership synonymous with delay, confusion, and systemic failure.
Kindly Share:
Bashir Ahmad, who previously served as a media aide to former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, has strongly criticized what he described as the United States’ invasion of Venezuela, calling it an example of extreme double standards in global politics. Ahmad expressed his view through his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, reacting to reports surrounding the unfolding situation involving Venezuela and its leadership. According to information reported by LMSINT MEDIA, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife had been captured. The announcement sparked widespread reactions and renewed debates across international political circles. Following this development, authorities in the United States disclosed that President Maduro was facing allegations connected to drug trafficking and terrorism-related activities. These accusations further intensified global discussions about international law, sovereignty, and the consistency of foreign policy actions by world powers. Reacting to the situation, Bashir Ahmad drew a comparison between the United States’ actions in Venezuela and Russia’s military operation in Ukraine. He pointed out that when Russia launched an attack on Ukraine, the move was broadly condemned and labeled a serious international crime. However, Ahmad argued that the narrative appeared to change when the United States became involved in Venezuela. In his words, what is considered aggression in one scenario is framed as freedom or liberation in another, depending on who is carrying out the action. He stated that the same action condemned on one global stage was being justified on another, describing this contrast as a “staggering hypocrisy.” His comment has since generated conversations online about fairness, accountability, and the selective application of international standards. The statement adds to ongoing debates about how powerful nations interpret and enforce global rules, especially when military or political interests are involved
Kindly Share:
Boxing King Media has officially disclosed the burial prayer details for Sina Ghami and Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele, who were known to be close associates of world-renowned boxing champion Anthony Joshua. The two individuals tragically lost their lives following a motor accident that occurred earlier last week. In a public statement released on Saturday, Boxing King Media confirmed that the funeral prayer service has been fixed for Sunday, January 4, 2026. According to the announcement, the solemn gathering will take place at London Central Mosque, located at 146 Park Road, London NW8 7RG. The prayer session is scheduled to commence by 10:00am, with family members, friends, and sympathizers expected to be in attendance to pay their final respects. While expressing sympathy, Boxing King Media stated that their hearts remain with the bereaved families and all those affected by the unfortunate incident. The organization emphasized the need for continued prayers and support during this difficult time. Reports further revealed that the bodies of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele were returned to the United Kingdom after the deadly car crash that occurred in Nigeria, allowing funeral rites to be conducted according to family wishes. The tragic development has continued to draw emotional reactions from the boxing community and supporters who have followed Anthony Joshua’s career over the years, as many extend condolences to everyone impacted by the loss.
Kindly Share:
Reports emerging from the United States suggest that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is expected to face criminal prosecution in America following an alleged arrest by U.S. forces. According to a senior Republican lawmaker, Senator Mike Lee, discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that American military personnel carried out an operation aimed at safeguarding officials tasked with executing an existing arrest warrant against Maduro. The senator stated that the mission’s primary objective was to ensure the safe enforcement of that warrant. Senator Lee further explained that, based on information he received, the United States does not intend to pursue additional military operations within Venezuela, noting that the goal had already been achieved with Maduro reportedly in U.S. custody. These claims followed a public announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump, who earlier disclosed that American forces had taken control of Nicolás Maduro and his wife during what he described as a significant military operation conducted on Venezuelan territory. Trump characterized the action as decisive and large-scale, signaling a major escalation in U.S.–Venezuela relations. In response to the announcement, the Venezuelan government declared a state of emergency, accusing Washington of engaging in direct military aggression against the country. Residents of Caracas, the nation’s capital, described hearing loud blasts and witnessing fires in several neighborhoods. Many civilians reported widespread panic, fear, and uncertainty as events unfolded overnight. For years, the United States has accused Nicolás Maduro of overseeing an international drug trafficking network, allegations that Maduro has consistently rejected. U.S. authorities previously announced a $50 million reward for information that could lead to his arrest, alongside heightened military readiness and pressure within the region. The situation marks a critical moment in the long-standing tensions between Washington and Caracas, with global attention now focused on the legal, political, and diplomatic consequences that may follow if Maduro is formally tried in the United States.
