The scholarship programme is funded by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and partner organisations.

Established in 1983, Chevening offers fully funded one-year taught master’s degree programmes at UK universities to emerging leaders from around the world.

The scheme targets individuals committed to driving positive change in their countries and contributing to solutions for global challenges.

Emma Hennessey, Head of the Scholarships Unit at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, in a statement on Monday urged eligible candidates to apply.

“Chevening is looking for exceptional individuals who are ready to collaborate with the UK to help build a more resilient, prosperous and sustainable future,” she said.

Hennessey said the programme remained committed to building a diverse and inclusive cohort of future global leaders.

“We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive cohort of global future leaders, so we are particularly interested in receiving applications from under-represented groups,” she said.

According to her, scholars and fellows are selected not only for their achievements but also for their leadership qualities and commitment to impact.

“Scholars and fellows are chosen not only for their achievements, but for their leadership potential and commitment to creating lasting impact,” Hennessey said.

She noted that access to UK education, professional networks and international experiences helped scholars develop solutions to shared global challenges.

“Chevening equips future leaders with the tools and connections needed to address shared international challenges together,” she added.

Hennessey encouraged prospective applicants to assess how their ambitions aligned with Chevening’s mission before submitting applications.

“I encourage anyone considering applying to reflect carefully on Chevening’s vision and purpose,” she said.

British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, described Chevening as more than an academic scholarship.

According to Baxter, the programme offers participants access to a global network of outstanding leaders committed to positive transformation.

“Through a world-class education, exposure to UK values and culture, and lifelong connections, scholars gain knowledge, skills and networks,” he said.

Baxter said those advantages enabled scholars to address pressing challenges and advance sustainable development in their communities and countries.

“If you have a clear vision for making a meaningful impact in areas of shared priority between Nigeria and the UK, apply,” he said.

Prospective candidates can submit applications through Chevening’s official application portal, chevening.org/apply and review programme guidance at chevening.org/vision to strengthen their submissions.

Applicants are also encouraged to study Chevening’s vision and eligibility resources before applying to improve their chances of presenting competitive applications.

Source: NAN

READ ALSO:

Osun 2026: I’ll restore dignity to public service -Oyebamiji

Ooni welcomes baby girl with Olori Oluwatosin

Enugu church abduction: Security agents intensify rescue efforts

CBN lists five ways to drive next stage of fintech growth in Nigeria

Insecurity: The northern leaders’ incongruous silence

Point-by-point response to Atiku on Nigeria’s reform journey

Woman dies in Lagos auto crash

Zamfara: Army rescues nine, confirms abduction of residents

SV Awards: Organisers appoint Media Icons Africa as marketers

Boiling Point: Panelists to discuss 2027 elections, fate of Nigeria

China, Italy-bound cocaine in local mortar, backpack intercepted

‘MMIA fire’: FAAN says smoke from suppression system

FAAN confirms fire at MMIA

The post Chevening-UK scholarship applications open appeared first on Frontpageng.

It is said that no one does ceremonies quite like the British. This much was obvious last week when Nigeria literally strutted the red carpet rolled out in her honour on the ancient and hallowed grounds of Windsor and 10 Downing Street.

By the time the curtains were drawn on President Bola Tinubu’s two-day official visit to the United Kingdom last Thursday, March 19, after his bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, not a few who witnessed the series of events put together to mark the visit or watched them live on television, and many others in Nigeria and across the world concluded it was a historic and glorious moment for Nigeria, and no less for President Tinubu. Whether observing the ceremonies physically or on television, one would be proud to be a Nigerian.

The pomp and ceremony that greeted the visit are worth repeating for their splendour, glory and grandeur. His Majesty King Charles III and Queen Camilla received President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu at Windsor Castle’s Quadrangle. The President reviewed the guard of honour and was treated to a 42-gun salute by the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery. President Tinubu, the First Lady, and the Nigerian delegation were treated to a state banquet later that evening.

The visit highlights Nigeria’s return to the international stage on the back of the economic reforms of the Tinubu administration, which have stabilised the Naira, liberalised the investment climate and modernised the tax system, resulting in renewed global recognition and commendation.

Historically, the state visit by President Tinubu came 37 years after a similar visit by military President Ibrahim Babangida in 1989, four years after he took over power.

The underlying difference between the two visits lay in the significance.  While the visit by General Babangida, a military ruler, occurred during the dark days of military dictatorship in Nigeria, the recent one took place under a blossoming 27-year-old democracy. This largely explains why the enthusiasm that greeted last week’s visit and the ceremonies accompanying it was deeper.

The late Queen Elizabeth II hosted General Babangida, while King Charles III – who is no stranger to Nigeria, having visited on several occasions – hosted President Tinubu. Both President Tinubu and King Charles III spoke and interacted as friends and brothers of sorts. One could sense the warmth and affection on display between the two leaders, with King Charles holding President Tinubu’s hand “with love,” as one viral social media post put it.

President Tinubu has emerged as the first Nigerian leader to be so hosted at Windsor Castle. The significance of Windsor Castle, that royal residence in England steeped in history, should not be lost on us.  According to Wikipedia, as the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, it’s been a central part of the British monarchy for over 900 years, hosting pivotal events and housing monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II, who spent a significant amount of time there. William the Conqueror reportedly built the castle in the 11th Century as a defensive ring of fortifications around London.

Indeed, it may have been a two-day visit, but the impact and significance will continue to resonate in the coming years.

Beyond all of that, there are also other equally remarkable parts of the visit during which the real gains of the two-day visit crystallised. Nigeria and Britain have a longstanding relationship that dates back to colonial days. After Nigeria’s independence, the relationship developed into business and trade partnerships. At the moment, Nigeria is one of the United Kingdom’s largest trading partners.

Official records show trade between Nigeria and the United Kingdom totalled £8.1 billion, an 11.4% increase from the previous year. Energy products and services largely account for this phenomenal growth.

Nigeria’s exports to the United Kingdom are dominated by crude oil, valued at £1.0 billion, while the UK’s exports to Nigeria are led by refined oil, worth £1.6 billion. The UK also maintains a healthy trade surplus of £3.4 billion with Nigeria.

During President Tinubu’s visit, a financing deal worth £746 million was signed between the two countries for the refurbishment of two major Nigerian ports, Apapa Quays and Tincan Port Complex. The import of that most ambitious deal is unmistakable. The multiplier effect of a modernised port, whether through loans or otherwise, on the speedy clearance of goods and on general operational efficiency and effectiveness, can hardly be overemphasised.

Additionally, Nigerian banks like Zenith Bank and Fidelity Bank are expanding their presence in the UK, with investments in Fintech, manufacturing, and education also on the rise.

Both President Tinubu and King Charles alluded to the growing, harmonious, mutually beneficial bilateral and trade relationships between the two countries in their speeches at the state banquet at Windsor Castle. “Nigeria and the United Kingdom have shared more than just history; our two nations share a vision of progress and resilience. Today, we continue that journey, committed to building a future rooted in partnership, mutual respect, and common values,” President Tinubu said, while expressing confidence that the friendship between the two countries will continue to improve.

King Charles said: “Your visit (Tinubu’s visit) has provided the opportunity to celebrate the fact that Nigeria is investing in Britain’s future as much as Britain is investing in Nigeria’s. Leading Nigerian banks have chosen the City of London as a global base; examples of the best Nigerian companies are listed on London’s Stock Exchange, and U.K. Export Finance is supporting investment in Nigeria’s ports.

“In education, British schools and universities are opening their doors in Nigeria, and British and Nigerian technology companies are forming ever closer partnerships. I was pleased to see that visitors from Nigeria spent £178 million in Britain in 2024, and 251,000 people from Britain travelled to Nigeria and spent just as much, in return.”

At No 10 Downing Street, London, President Tinubu later held bilateral and business meetings with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during the visit, during which discussions centred on trade, the economy, climate change, terrorism, the tension in the Middle East, and wider global challenges.

“Currently, the entire world is challenged. Nigeria is not immune to what is happening around the world. I have seen your reactions on television on certain developments,” President Tinubu told Prime Minister Starmer, adding, “My reaction, as you rightly said, is the economy and the welfare of the people and how we should work together to improve the livelihood of our people.”

Like King Charles, the British PM also expressed his appreciation for the UK’s enduring relationship with Nigeria, particularly the vibrant people-to-people connections that continue to strengthen both societies, noting that both countries already maintain strong collaboration in areas such as the economy, defence, and security.

Before leaving the UK and heading back to Lagos in time to attend the Eid-el-Fitr prayers at Dodan Barracks Prayer Ground, President Tinubu created time to attend an Access Bank-sponsored art exhibition at Tate Modern, where he praised the creativity and resilience of Nigerians as they reinvented images of the past into modern history.

Indeed, it may have been a two-day visit, but the impact and significance will continue to resonate in the coming years.

*Rahman is Senior Assistant to President Tinubu on Media & Special Duties.

READ ALSO: 

CCC: Oshoffa issues directive on youth development

IAEA confirms Iran nuclear facility bombing

Ozoro: Police confirm 15 suspects in custody

WEATHER FORECAST: NiMet predicts sunshine, cloudiness

Truck and gas tanker collision kills two, says Lagos Fire Service

Gas explosion in Calabar injures 38

Eid-el-Fitr: Amb. Adejare Bello rejoices with Muslims, prays for peace

CAF ruling: Morocco’s captain rejects AFCON title, backs Senegal

Military foils drone-assisted attack, wipes out terrorist commanders

Eid-el-Fitr: NRC to run three Lagos–Ibadan train trips Monday

FG orders arrests over alleged sexual assault at Ozoro Festival

INTIMATE AFFAIR: For Gen-Z brides, By Funke Egbemode

The post The substance, symbolism of President Tinubu’s UK state visit appeared first on Frontpageng.

The memorandum on immigration cooperation, like other memoranda signed, aimed to strengthen the partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

Nigeria’s Minister of Interior and the Secretary of State for the Home Department of the Government of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland signed the Migration MoU.

The MoU establishes a framework to facilitate a regulated and safe migration flow between the two countries and to encourage further bilateral cooperation in the fight against irregular migration and associated acts by citizens of each country, in accordance with their respective immigration and citizenship laws and extant international treaties, conventions, protocols, agreements, and charters.

Nowhere in the 12-page memorandum is Nigeria required to accept foreign nationals other than Nigerians. Nationals to be repatriated must have undergone multiple levels of identification and verification, and, where errors occur, they are returned to the requesting country at the requesting country’s cost.

Under the agreement, Nigeria and the United Kingdom will work together to secure the dignified return of their nationals who do not, or no longer, have the right to enter or remain in the territory of the other country.

A clear condition in the MoU is that the returnees concerned are bona fide nationals of the country and are treated with dignity and respect, with due regard to their human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Law enforcement officers in each country will take the necessary action to protect the interests and well-being of citizens of either party and to mitigate conflict triggers related to migration matters.

A key provision in the MoU is that the migrant to be returned must carry his legally acquired personal belongings to the country of destination, unlike in the past when migrants left with nothing.

Article 12 further reinforces this good deal: “Every returnee will be given ample opportunity to make adequate arrangements for the transfer or disposal of his property in the territory of the requesting party, under the supervision of the mission of the requested party.”

Another provision is that where a return is being considered, and the person has made a claim under relevant domestic or international human rights legislation, that claim will be considered in line with the provisions under the party’s respective domestic legislation. The appeal may relate to circumstances in which the foreign nationals have been lawfully resident in the territory of the requesting party for most of their lives and socially and culturally integrated in the territory of the requesting party. Another ground of appeal may be where the nationals would face significant obstacles to their integration into the country to which they are to be deported.

Article 9 of the MoU sets out the conditions for the migrant’s return.

“Before departure, identification checks will be carried out by the officers of the requested party in the territory of the requesting party and on arrival by the competent authorities of the requested party. The requesting party will coordinate all returns with the officers of the requested party.

“A return may be conducted by means of a scheduled aircraft or an aircraft chartered specifically for this purpose by the authorities of the parties; the requesting party will provide the flight details and particulars of each returnee five (5) working days before the date of return.

“A return will be conducted using an original, valid passport, or, if the requesting party can biometrically match a returnee to a visa application made in the territory of the requested party, then an expedited process will be permissible, via which the requesting party will facilitate the return or repatriation using a UK Letter (UKL).

“If a returnee cannot be biometrically matched to a visa application by the requesting party, but there is otherwise strong evidence to confirm nationality, including a copy of a passport, a passport number or a national identity card, then an expedited process will again be permissible via which the requesting party will facilitate return or repatriation using a UK Letter (UKL).

“Should the requested party not be satisfied with a returnee’s identity within five (5) working days of submission of the UK Letter (UKL) to Nigerian authorities, detailed reasons should be presented to the requesting party why the identity cannot be satisfied. In these circumstances, removal will be deferred.

“If subsequent evidence shows that a returnee who has been returned is not a national of the requested party, the requesting party will take the person back to its territory at the requesting party’s cost and by the most efficient means possible. The request for the return of the person referred to in Article X will be made within ten (10) working days following the return exercise and carried out within fourteen (14) working days after acceptance of the request.”

Article 9, subsection 3, shows that Nigeria has not ceded to the UK the right to document the repatriated person.

The section says: It shall be the sole responsibility of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to issue and handle, as is necessary under Nigerian domestic legislation, any Nigerian documentation (including the digital acknowledgement of receipt of a UK Letter) ahead of the notified date of return as stated in the UK Letter. This shall be distinct from the UK Letter process and remains the sole right and responsibility of Nigerian authorities, including the handling of the travel document and any onward transmission required from the issuing office to enable entry.

Article 11 deals with returnee reintegration assistance. It states that every returnee will be able to access basic on-arrival and reintegration assistance in the territory of the requested party.

“Short-term assistance may include airport reception, accommodation, onward transportation, care and provision packs and small cash assistance. Medium-term assistance can include support to find and reunite with family; support in obtaining the in-country documentation required, signposting to local services, and the potential provision of mental well-being and counselling services (if required).

“Longer-term assistance may allow access to a Returnee Education and Entrepreneurship Fund to enable sustainable reintegration. Support may include accessing the local job market, setting up a business, accessing vocational training or further education, and assistance with legal migration opportunities.

“Should the parties’ domestic legislation regarding the provision of reintegration support to all or certain categories of returnees change, or should the overarching non-legally mandated package of reintegration support change, the parties will inform each other as soon as is practicable.”

The MoU, similar to those signed in 2012, 2017, and 2022, is for an initial period of five years, renewable for a further five-year period, as may be agreed by the parties.

We reiterate that media organisations should seek clarification when uncertain about any issue to avoid misinforming the public.

*Onanuga is the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy 

READ ALSO:

CAF ruling: Morocco’s captain rejects AFCON title, backs Senegal

Military foils drone-assisted attack, wipes out terrorist commanders

Eid-el-Fitr: NRC to run three Lagos–Ibadan train trips Monday

FG orders arrests over alleged sexual assault at Ozoro Festival

INTIMATE AFFAIR: For Gen-Z brides, By Funke Egbemode

Thugs disrupt ADC women rally in Rivers

NIPR tasks 421 inductees on safeguarding Nigeria’s image

Iran: U.S.-Israeli bombing campaign could create uncontrollable situation -UN

Spokesman for Iran’s Revolutionary Guards killed in attack

Tinubu felicitates muslims on Eid-el-Fitr, urges renewed patriotism

Eid-el-Fitr: Yilwtda rejoices with muslims, seeks promotion of unity

The post Clarifying the Nigeria-UK migration partnership, By Bayo Onanuga  appeared first on Frontpageng.

President Tinubu met with United Kingdom Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Downing Street, where the two countries agreed on a deal to refurbish two major ports in Lagos, worth £746m.

The president described his state visit to the United Kingdom — the first by a Nigerian leader in 37 years — as “very thrilling and significant” in strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.

“We cannot forget the institutional development we have enjoyed over the years,” the Nigerian leader said at Downing Street ahead of bilateral talks.

He noted that discussions would cover trade, the economy, climate change, terrorism, and wider global challenges.

“Nigeria is currently going through strong reforms of its economy, and we will discuss that further in our bilateral discussions.

“Currently, the entire world is challenged. Nigeria is not immune to what is happening around the world. I have seen your reactions on television on certain developments.

“My reaction, as you rightly said, is the economy and the welfare of the people and how we should work together to improve the livelihood of our people,” he said.

Prime Minister Starmer, in his remarks, described the visit as historic and highlighted the significance of the State Banquet hosted by the King in honour of the Nigerian delegation.

He reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s appreciation of its enduring relationship with Nigeria, particularly the vibrant people-to-people connections that continue to strengthen both societies.

He noted that both countries already maintained strong collaboration in areas such as the economy, defence, and security, and said the newly reached agreements on exports and business exchanges reflected a shared determination to deepen cooperation and broaden engagement on global issues.

Later, at Lancaster House, President Bola Tinubu, together with his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, witnessed the £746m agreement for the modernisation of the infrastructure at the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.

The agreement was signed on behalf of Nigeria by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State and UK Minister for Small Business and Economic Transformation, Blair McDougall MP, on behalf of the British government.

Edun explained that the agreements were consistent with Nigeria’s priority on infrastructure, energy, and industrial development.

He noted that the increasing emphasis on bilateral partnerships would help attract the scale of investment required to boost economic activity, create jobs, and reduce poverty, in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He said the agreements underscored growing confidence and mutual trust between both countries, as well as a shared commitment to deliver tangible economic outcomes for Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

READ ALSO:

Messi scores 900th career goal, joins Ronaldo in elite club

Eid-el-Fitr: NRC increases train trips across major corridors 

Eid-el-Fitr: Police deploy massive security in Lagos

FOR THE RECORD: Nigeria-UK friendship will continue –Tinubu

FOR THE RECORD: Many Nigerians now at the heart of British life –King Charles

Olorungbemi to Ooni: There’s urgent need for S’West development

20kg cocaine trafficking: 10 Filipino sailors, ship convicted, fined $6m

The post Nigeria, UK: FG signs £747m deal to refurbish two major ports appeared first on Frontpageng.

A statement issued by the UK High Commission in Abuja on Tuesday said the development was the continuation of UK Visas and Immigration’s transition to a fully digital border.

It explained that under the new policy, travellers would access their visa electronically through their UK Visas and Immigration, UKVI, account, marking a significant step in modernising the UK’s visa process.

“This move to digital visas will streamline a key part of the visa process, making it more secure while reducing dependence on paper documents.

“We look forward to continuing to welcome Nigerian visitors, students and workers to the UK.

“We are committed to making it easier for Nigerians to travel to the UK,” the statement quoted British Deputy High Commissioner in Abuja, Mrs Gill Lever as saying.

It added that the visa application requirements remained unchanged, as travellers would apply as usual, visit a Visa Application Centre to provide biometric information, and meet all existing eligibility criteria.

The only difference is that instead of a physical sticker, applicants will receive a secure digital record of their immigration status.

Nigerians currently holding a valid vignette sticker do not need to take any action as their physical visa remains valid until it expires or requires replacement.

According to the UK government, the move to eVisas brings a number of benefits for Nigerian travellers.

These include faster return of passports, while travellers can manage their immigration status online at any time, from any location.

The digital format also offers stronger security as eVisas cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with.

Besides, once a visa is approved, applicants will need to create a free UKVI account to access their eVisa.

Additionally, applicants are encouraged to visit www.gov.uk/eVisa for more information.

Source: NAN

READ ALSO: 

We’ll sustain economic reforms for the benefit of Nigerians –Tinubu

EFCC grills el-Rufai on corruption allegations

WAEC releases 2025 Second Series CB-WASSCE results

Nigeria’s inflation rate was 15.10% in January -NBS

Tinubu hails Nigeria-UAE industrial breakthrough

Business practices that break public trust in your brand

Fire disaster: Shettima leads FG delegation to Kano

Enugu Rangers pip Wikki Tourists 2-0 in Enugu

Senate reconvenes sitting Tuesday

The post UK announces unveiling of e-visa for travellers from Feb 25 appeared first on Frontpageng.

This is contained in a statement issued by the UK Mission in Nigeria on Sunday posted on its official X handle.

According to the statement, the president’s visit, slated for Wednesday, March 18, and Thursday, March 19, will be the first by a Nigerian leader since 1989.

It added that the historic visit provides an opportunity to further strengthen the enduring partnership between the two countries.

The president will be accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, during the visit, and the King and Queen will host them at Windsor Castle.

“The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, has accepted an invitation from His Majesty, the King to pay a State Visit to the United Kingdom from Wednesday, 18th March to Thursday, 19th March 2026.

“This historic visit provides an opportunity to further strengthen the enduring partnership between our two nations.

“The King and Queen will host the State Visit at Windsor Castle,” the statement reads further.

Source: NAN

READ ALSO: 

Will the FG-ASUU agreement end strikes in our universities (II)

2027: Rivers battle ready for Tinubu’s re-election –Wike

Wife allegedly cuts off husband’s manhood in Yobe

Ghana recalls High Commissioner to Nigeria, gives reason

Troops rescue abducted victims, dismantle illicit activities nationwide –Army

Boiling Point: Today, experts discuss powers of federal, state police

Osolo stool: Court dismisses stay of proceeding applications

The silent press and the silent siege, By Segun Adediran

Trump threatens tariffs for countries trading with Iran

Kwara attack: Shettima in Ilorin to commiserate with state govt

The post Tinubu accepts King Charles’ state visit invitation to UK appeared first on Frontpageng.

Now, hostile immigration policies in the developed world have become the cane with which the “outside” disciplines those who fled failing homelands, exposing the illusion that opportunity abroad is unconditional or permanent.

In those days, each time my mother caught any of her six children attempting to go and play in our neighbour’s compound, she would say, “E je ki kainkain ile yin o ta yin nidi.” In direct translation, she meant that we should fasten our buttocks to our father’s compound and allow the ants there to bite us rather than the ants in the neighbour’s home. In other words, no matter how unattractive your home is, it is better to sit there and endure the discomforts than to sneak out into another compound and assume there are no poisonous ants there.

But did we always listen? Of course not. We were children. We always wanted to go to the “other compound.” And somehow, we almost always ended up in trouble. If we did not break something, we would return with bruises from “playing rough.” And then Mummy would report us to Daddy, and both of them would unleash their customised shege. The combination of those two and their premium shege can only be understood by “legends” whose parents were like mine.

My siblings and I eventually learned to be one another’s friends and playmates. We quarrelled, fought, and resolved things among ourselves. We made our beds the way we wanted to lie on them. In those days, our parents were lawgivers and law enforcers. It was hard being their children, but the discipline toughened us.

2025 came in smiling sweetly, wearing a seductive scent and a swag. We embraced her and laid our heads on her succulent breasts. We were so, so sure everything would be cool. So we revved up our Nigeria and told ourselves, “If Nigeria is not liveable, we will go somewhere else.” 2025 smiled, nodded, and encouraged us to go ahead. We sold land and jewellery. We took loans and sent our children to the UK, US, Canada—everywhere we thought the fields looked greener. Couples went with their children. Some even left their children, hoping to return for them. We even had extreme cases where men in their late 40s and 50s sold their homes so they could go into the neighbour’s compound to explore and enjoy the greener pasture.

So how did we manage to turn all those attributes into curses and disadvantages? Why can we not make all our advantages make us a superpower, even if only an African superpower?

2025 continued to smile.

She did not warn us.

More people boarded the Japa train. Then one day, the UK arrived with branded shege.

They called it Changes to Legal Migration and Work Visas.

It started with the May 2025 Immigration White Paper, which tightened the noose around the necks of “earned settlement” with stricter eligibility rules. That was followed by skilled worker restrictions. Jobs our people took for granted suddenly came under “thou shalt not come to the UK to do these jobs.”

By July 2025, the list of jobs eligible for sponsorship was shortened. By July 22, the UK ended overseas recruitment of social care workers by employers. From here on, for international students, the post-study work period (Graduate visa) will be reduced from two years to 18 months for most applicants starting in early 2027. From January 8, 2026, your English-speaking prowess must be far from Pidgin and close to the Queen’s English. Applicants for Skilled Worker and High Potential Individual visas must now demonstrate a B2 level of English proficiency, up from the old B1.

The Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) paid by employers to sponsor foreign workers was increased by 32 per cent in December 2025.

Still, 2025 was adjusting her bra and patting her bone-straight wig, as if she did not know that all these new laws are a pain in the butt.

The UK government’s 2025 proposals seek to redefine settlement as a privilege rather than a right. The UK is now planning to increase the standard qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) for many legal migrants from five years to 10 years. These, and many other stinging ants, are lining up to bite Nigerians living and working in the UK.

And 2025 is still sitting unruffled in her low-neckline, sweet pink dress. Who wears pink when everything is going dark?

And if we thought we had heard the worst news of the year, it was because we had not opened Uncle Donald’s Santa Claus duffel bag of goodies. Even 2025 was shaken by the contents.

Even yours sincerely is seething—very angry that I paid for a five-year visa that I will not be able to use. I hope Uncle Donald is reading this. My B1/B2 visa is now sitting lame in my passport. I heard it also affected F, M, and even J visas. I guess all alphabets are in trouble in this Trump trouble. Even those who have Green Cards and citizenship are in trouble. Of course, our pregnancies have been told to stay out of America. Under the new ban, U.S. citizens seeking to bring over their spouses and children from travel-banned countries will be unable to do so, unless they manage to fulfil a few extra righteousness.

“The new ban no longer contains an exemption for Afghans who assisted the US war effort in Afghanistan (2001 to 2021). Those Afghans put themselves in mortal danger to help the US, and there are an estimated 260,000 of them who remain abroad waiting for entry to the US. Some are in third countries, but many remain in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan and thus face risks to their freedoms or lives.

Even Afghans who have made it to the US on a Special Immigrant Visa or who are otherwise there legally are fearful that they will be deported.”

I brought this last part to pull the ears of those Nigerians already planning how to enter America by fire or by force. Trump means business. Do not think up any of your Nigerian slangs on this matter. Staying wise and safe should be your motto now. Borrow yourself brain and shelve all plans to outwit Trump. Right now, he holds the aces. If Afghans who “put themselves in mortal danger to help the US” are not exempted from bans and restrictions and those already in America are “fearful they will be deported,” Nigerians desperate to leave Nigeria should look beyond the UK and the US.

I am embarrassed on behalf of all of you Nigerians reading this. We should all be ashamed. Yes, no man is an island, but why is Nigeria not the country everybody wants to visit and live in?

We have great hills.

We have awesome waterfalls.

We have beautiful beaches.

We have minerals of all kinds under our soil.

We are brilliant people.

We are patient, long-distance runners.

We are rugged.

So how did we manage to turn all those attributes into curses and disadvantages? Why can we not make all our advantages make us a superpower, even if only an African superpower?

A land flowing with milk and honey is now queuing to buy sugar in other countries. We are being threatened by all the letters of the English language, all because we failed to do what we should have done when we needed to do them.

The people who call themselves lawmakers have not been able to find the right English to write a law that will make our gold, for instance, as useful as our oil. They prefer to pass bills that enable the President to borrow more money. The Nigerian Police have not found the right way to use our NIN and BVN to track criminals. They are busy somewhere, as you read this, calculating how much they will make from issuing tint permits every year. How did we end up with leaders like the ones we have had? Quickie, two-minute leaders who can neither thrust deep nor last long. They leave no memorable performance—leaders you do not yearn for.

According to the American Immigration Council, “the country most heavily impacted by the new restrictions is Nigeria. Over the last decade (excluding the COVID years of 2020 and 2021), Nigerians received an average of 128,000 immigrant and non-immigrant visas on an annual basis. Nearly all of these visas will now be restricted, blocking legal immigration from the most populous country in Africa.”

In addition, two of the newly banned countries, Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire, qualified for the World Cup in 2026, which will mostly be held in the United States. Under the new travel ban, any fans of those countries who don’t have valid visas as of January 1, 2026, will be barred from getting them and unable to attend the games in person.”

Well, at least Nigeria will not need to sponsor hundreds of people to “go and support our players”. It won’t kill us to watch football where we can rewind and fast-forward, for once.

On a serious note, won’t Canada, Australia, and others soon follow with restrictions because ‘bi iya nla ba gbeni san’l?, keekeeke a ma g’ori eni?’ When a big tragedy knocks you down, it gives smaller misfortunes the opportunity to jump on you. Won’t Gambia and Mauritania one day also tell Nigerians they cannot bring their trouble to trouble their lands?

When will our leaders start leading in ways that will make everybody stop looking down on us? When will they start doing instead of boasting like Okobo, the impotent bridegroom?

And 2025 is still smiling. Only God knows the next shege she has planned.

*Egbemode (egbemode3@gmail.com).

READ ALSO:

New tax law designed to boost sub-national govts’ revenue needs —Sanwo-Olu

AFCON 2025: Lookman’s strike gives Nigeria win over Tanzania

IPI condemns detention of journalist’s wife, nine-month-old baby

APC chair, Yilwatda, appoints Special Advisers, others (+Full list)

BPSR ranks NCC among top three MDAs in best website performance in 2025

PHOTO NEWS: Abiodun Agboola decorated with new rank of DCP

WHO unveils traditional medicine global library

Lassa fever: Plateau records two confirmed cases, two deaths

Media Rights Agenda wins MEA Business Awards 2025

Kogi: Two people dead, 14 injured in auto-crash –FRSC

UBA dragged to court for allegedly opening secret account that landed customer before EFCC

2026: Racing towards or against trust capital

Why Nigerians will re-elect Tinubu in 2027 –Sanwo-Olu

The post 2025, Japa dreams, Immigration ‘shege’, By Funke Egbemode appeared first on Frontpageng.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, made this known in a press statement on Thursday.

The vacation, he said, would last 10 working days.

President Tinubu will spend the period between France and the UK and then return to the country.

READ ALSO: The gods do change their minds, By Funke Egbemode

The post Tinubu departs Abuja to begin 2025 annual leave appeared first on Frontpageng.

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, stated this during a courtesy visit to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu at State House, Abuja.

According to the British High Commissioner, the UK government sees a lot of positivity in Nigeria’s economy, particularly new opportunities being created by the difficult but necessary reforms undertaken by President Bola Tinubu.

He said his home government was impressed by the track record of RHI as a special purpose vehicle delivering empowerment to women in key areas especially in Education, Health and Humanitarian.

The British High Commissioner noted that the reforms and moves had led to enhanced trade partnership between the two nations.

READ ALSO: CVR: Samuel Ajose Foundation donates logistics materials to APC

Richard Montgomery noted that the UK government was also paying attention to the ongoing Constitutional Amendment and called for Special Seats for Women in the National Assembly.

In her response, the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, assured her guests that the government and the Renewed Hope Initiative, RHI, which is in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would continue to work towards meeting the challenges of Nigerians.

“I believe we can help each other, if we really show concern.

“RHI focuses also on women empowerment in the informal sector. These are the ones we are touching their lives directly”.

She agreed with her guests that the number of women in the National Assembly was dwindling and promised to join with ongoing process to improve the numbers.

“We have to really know the right people to represent us, who can really do the work and that is what we have to enlighten our women about.”

The visiting team also include the British Deputy High Commissioner, Gill Lever.

The post UK applauds gains of Nigeria’s economic reforms appeared first on Frontpageng.

Oguntade was ordained a pastor of CAC while at the Christ Apostolic Church, English Assembly in 1999, and he diligently served the Lord in several capacities before relocating to London in 2003.

He also served at a number of churches in London before settling at CAC, Surrey Docks DCC of Anosike Region in the UK.

He was a highly revered man of God widely noted for his kindness, selflessness, humility, generosity and a burning passion for the work of God.

The late pastor was also an IT guru who co-founded the IT firm, Remsund Nigeria Limited, with his childhood friend and brother-in-law, Pastor Remi Collins.

Before he relocated to the UK about two decades ago, they engineered the ASYCUDA software system deployed to the Lagos ports for use by the Nigerian Customs Service.

READ ALSO: Falcons, D’Tigress and the shame of our empty hospitals

Son of a pastor, Oguntade was a foundation Elder of CAC’s first ever purely English-speaking assembly founded by the Itire District in Lagos, and was instrumental to its subsequent growth into a district with several branches after hosting the first branch at his personal house in Ikate area of Surulere, Lagos.

He left Nigeria to settle in the UK with his entire family around 2003 and kept the fire of his service aglow through a productive partnership with Pastor Emmanuel Olusegun Medaiyese, pioneering Minister of the CAC at Surrey Docks, London, and foundation Chairman of the Anosike Region covering UK and Europe.

He is survived by his wife, Funmilayo Oguntade, and their children and grandchildren.

The CAC English District, Itire, Lagos, has rolled out plans for a commendation service in his honour, at 5 p.m., on Tuesday, August 12.

Venue is the CAC English District Headquarters at 3, Adefimihan Street, Off Itire-Mushin Road, Lagos.

An online posting by his family said: “Pastor Oguntade dedicated his life to the service of his community and faith, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and spiritual guidance.

“He was more than a Pastor; he was a beacon of hope and support for countless individuals and families. His commitment to his faith and his community was unwavering, fostering an environment of growth and understanding. He is remembered not only for his spiritual leadership but also for his kindness, integrity, and the gentle strength he provided to those around him.

“While we reflect on his extraordinary journey, we also recognize the profound impact he had on the lives of those around him. Pastor Oguntade nurtured relationships that spanned generations, fostering a spirit of unity and resilience among his parishioners, friends, and family. His legacy will continue to inspire us to live with grace, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to our values.”

The post CAC set to hold memorial service for Pastor Oguntade appeared first on Frontpageng.