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May Allah Forgive His Shortcomings – Tinubu Pays Tribute to Buhari

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Abuja, Nigeria | July 13, 2025 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid an emotional tribute to his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari, following the announcement of Buhari’s death in a London hospital on Sunday, July 13.

In an official statement released on his verified X account, President Tinubu described Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, and a statesman,” noting his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity, discipline in governance, and fight against corruption.

“President Buhari was to the very core, a patriot, a soldier, a statesman. His legacy of service and sacrifice endures,” Tinubu stated.

Tinubu, who succeeded Buhari in May 2023, reflected on Buhari’s leadership both as a military head of state (1984–1985) and as a democratically elected president (2015–2023). He emphasized the former president’s “quiet strength, profound integrity, and unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential.”

The President offered prayers for Buhari’s soul, saying:

“May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.”

As a mark of respect, President Tinubu ordered all national flags to fly at half-staff for seven days, beginning July 13, and announced an emergency Federal Executive Council session on Tuesday to honour the late leader. He also confirmed that a full state burial will be accorded to President Buhari.

The late president’s body will be flown back to Nigeria from London and laid to rest in his hometown, Daura, Katsina State, in line with Islamic rites. Vice President Kashim Shettima is currently in London and will accompany the remains back to Nigeria.

President Tinubu extended his condolences to Buhari’s wife, Aisha Buhari, the Buhari family, the government and people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians mourning the loss.

“We honour his service. We reflect on his legacy. And we pray for the peaceful repose of his soul,” the president said.

Buhari’s passing marks the end of an era in Nigerian politics. As the nation mourns, tributes continue to pour in from local and international dignitaries, acknowledging his profound influence on Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Nigeria’s Vice President Arrives in London to Accompany Buhari’s Remains Home

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 Abuja, Nigeria | July 14, 2025 — Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside Presidential Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, arrived in London this Monday to collect and repatriate the body of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on July 13 after a prolonged illness.

Following President Bola Tinubu’s directive, Shettima departed Nigeria late Sunday night and was greeted at the hospital by Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar and Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum. The delegation then proceeded to complete necessary formalities ahead of transporting Buhari’s remains back to Nigeria.

Funeral Arrangements & Mourners

  • The body is expected to reach Nigeria on Monday for burial in Daura, Katsina State, in accordance with Islamic rites
  • President Tinubu has ordered all national flags to fly at half-mast. He also summoned an emergency Federal Executive Council session for July 15 to honour the late leader Punch Newspapers.
  • Daura is preparing to receive dignitaries, including former heads of state and West African leaders, for the burial ceremony

About Former President Buhari
 General Muhammadu Buhari, aged 82, served twice as Nigeria’s leader: once as military head of state (1983–1985) and later as democratically elected president (2015–2023), becoming the first opposition candidate to unseat an incumbent president. Reuters. Though initially respected for anti-corruption efforts and gains against Boko Haram, his tenure faced criticism over rising insecurity and economic challenges.

Reno Omokri Praises Digital Transformation at Abuja Airport

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Abuja, Nigeria | July 10, 2025 — Political commentator and former presidential aide Reno Omokri has lavished praise on the newly upgraded Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, calling it “the most modern airport in Africa.”

In a post from his verified X account yesterday, Omokri said:

“Once you land, everything is electronic. No immigration. Completely paperless.”

He credited the achievements to President Bola Tinubu and key aviation officials, adding that Minister Festus Keyamo and adviser Bunmi Ojo also “deserve praise” for their roles in the digital overhaul

Omokri’s post has sparked debate online. Supporters welcomed the shift toward a fully digital, paperless arrival experience, while critics questioned whether the system is seamless and inclusive for all travelers.

A review of the airport’s latest upgrades confirms enhanced electronic systems—but thorough, independent assessments are underway to verify that the immigration process is indeed entirely paperless and accessible for passengers.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has yet to officially comment on Omokri’s claims. Meanwhile, travelers are encouraged to share their experiences—whether seamless or not—as the Abuja aviation hub continues its journey toward modernization.

UNICEF Warns of Worsening HIV Crisis Among Children and Adolescent Girls

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Photo credit: UNICEF/UNI211839/Schermbrucker

By Solomon Asuquo

The Newly released data from UNICEF on July 10, 2025, paints a grim picture of the global HIV/AIDS epidemic, with millions of children and adolescent girls still at high risk and a historic funding crisis threatening to roll back years of progress.

According to the 2025 HIV estimates, 2.42 million of the 40.8 million people living with HIV worldwide in 2024 were children aged 0–19. Alarming daily figures reveal that approximately 712 children were infected with HIV, and around 250 died from AIDS-related causes each day last year, largely due to inadequate access to prevention and treatment services.

The burden remains overwhelmingly concentrated in sub-Saharan Africa, which accounted for 61% of the 630,000 global AIDS-related deaths recorded in 2024. Adolescent girls and young women are especially vulnerable — over 210,000 new infections were recorded among girls aged 15–24 in the region, translating to nearly 570 new infections daily.

UNICEF warns that the situation is likely to worsen, as a deepening global funding crisis threatens to reverse hard-won gains and widen existing inequalities driving the epidemic.

“These figures are a wake-up call,” UNICEF stated. “They reflect not just a health emergency but a failure in equity, access, and investment.”

The organization emphasized the urgent need for equity-driven strategies that prioritize those most at risk — including children, adolescents, and pregnant women — through:

  • Eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.
  • Closing treatment gaps for children and adolescents, with early diagnosis and optimized pediatric regimens.
  • Expanding access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services for adolescent girls.

A new joint analysis by UNICEF and UNAIDS, expected in August 2025, will assess how the current financial trajectory could affect future child mortality and HIV infections. Early modeling predicts a significant rise in infections and deaths if investment gaps persist.

“Without immediate, targeted investment, the HIV epidemic among children and adolescents will spiral out of control,” UNICEF warned.

The call to action is clear: sustained global commitment, increased funding, and inclusive health systems are critical to protecting the world’s most vulnerable from a worsening epidemic.

For more information and data dashboards, visit data.unicef.org.

U.S. Government Announces New Visa Restrictions for Nigerian Travelers

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Abuja, Nigeria — The United States Department of State has revised its nonimmigrant visa policy for Nigerian citizens, reducing most visa types to single-entry with a maximum validity of three months, effective immediately.

In a statement released by the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, the policy change affects non-official and nonimmigrant visa categories and took effect on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. However, visas issued before this date remain valid and unchanged.

“Most nonimmigrant and non-official visas for Nigerian citizens will be single-entry with 3-month validity,” the U.S. Mission confirmed via its official handle @USinNigeria. “Visas issued before July 8, 2025 remain unchanged.”

The updated policy stems from a standard global practice known as visa reciprocity, which involves aligning U.S. visa terms with how U.S. citizens are treated by the visa policies of other countries.

According to the U.S. State Department, criteria influencing this change include:

  • Secure Travel Documents: Countries must issue secure passports and travel IDs.
  • Visa Overstay Management: Nations should effectively limit and manage visa overstays.
  • Information Sharing: Timely sharing of security and criminal data is required to safeguard public safety.

The U.S. stressed that visa reciprocity is dynamic and subject to change based on evolving standards and mutual diplomatic reviews. “As is standard globally, visa reciprocity is a continuous process,” the statement read.

While the decision may pose additional hurdles for Nigerian travelers, the U.S. emphasized its commitment to a strong bilateral relationship with Nigeria.

“The United States values its longstanding relationship with Nigeria… and remains a committed partner in deepening people-to-people ties via business, educational, and cultural exchanges.”

The U.S. Mission also commended efforts by Nigerian immigration and security authorities to meet international best practices and noted ongoing consultations with the Nigerian government to resolve outstanding concerns.

Nigerian citizens planning to travel to the United States are now advised to:

  • Check the validity and terms of their visas;
  • Ensure their travel documents are authentic and up to date;
  • Adhere strictly to the conditions of their visa stay.

More details on country-specific visa terms can be accessed via the official Visa Reciprocity Schedule at travel.state.gov.

Reno Omokri Accuses Peter Obi of Misleading Nigerians on National Debt Figures

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Mr. Peter Obi left and Seun during Sunday Politics on Channel TV,

Abuja, Nigeria — Former presidential aide and political commentator, Reno Omokri, has strongly criticized Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, over his recent comments on Nigeria’s debt profile, describing them as “blatant lies” and “potentially damaging to national security and investor confidence.”

The outburst came after Mr. Obi’s appearance on Channels Television, where he alleged that President Bola Tinubu had borrowed more money than all his predecessors combined—Obasanjo, Yar’adua, Jonathan, and Buhari.

In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, July 7, Omokri accused Obi of manipulating figures by converting Nigeria’s dollar-denominated debt into naira using the current floating exchange rate of ₦1,560/$1, to give a false impression of increased borrowing.

“Nigeria’s debt has actually reduced from $108.2 billion on May 29, 2023, to $94.2 billion today,” Omokri wrote. “What Peter Obi did was convert the $94.2 billion into Naira using the floated Naira rate… to give the impression that our debt has increased.”

According to Omokri, although Nigeria’s debt in naira has risen to ₦144.67 trillion due to currency devaluation, it does not reflect new or excessive borrowing. He explained that the naira amount appears larger simply because it is now being calculated using a much weaker exchange rate, compared to ₦400/$1 at the beginning of Tinubu’s administration.

“When you quantify our debt in dollars rather than Naira, our total debt has actually reduced by over $14 billion,” he added, citing figures purportedly from the Debt Management Office (DMO).

Omokri further warned that Obi’s statements could mislead both Nigerians and foreign investors:

“Peter Obi is a national security threat… Foreign investors may be swayed by his lies and refrain from investing in Nigeria. And those already in Nigeria may panic and start divesting.”

He concluded his remarks with a pledge to present what he described as “irrefutable evidence” on live television using official DMO data to counter Obi’s claims.

The controversy adds to growing political tensions as Nigeria navigates a fragile economic recovery marked by high inflation, rising debt service obligations, and a volatile exchange rate following the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange window.

As of press time, Mr. Peter Obi has not officially responded to Omokri’s allegations.

AGE Network Engages Ogun State Stakeholders to Tackle Teenage Pregnancy Through Sport Girls’ Initiative

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Abeokuta, Ogun State — In a bold step to confront the rising rates of teenage pregnancy, child marriage, and school dropout among adolescent girls, the African Girls Empowerment Network on Monday, 30 June 2025, conducted a high-level advocacy visit to key stakeholders in Ogun State.

The mission, led by Ms. Matina Ebri, Program Director and Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) advocate, aimed to deepen collaboration with state institutions, leveraging sports as a strategic tool for empowering girls and promoting their health and rights.

At the Ogun State Ministry of Youth and Sports, the delegation was warmly welcomed by the Honourable Commissioner, Hon. Isiaka Adeniran Wasiu, who expressed strong support for the initiative.

“This initiative is timely and compelling,” Hon. Wasiu said. “The public will be highly interested in this approach. I will personally ensure you’re connected to relevant partners, and my team is available to assist whenever needed. Please keep me updated—I believe this program will go far.” he added.

Ms. Ebri emphasized that the Sport Girls’ Initiative is far more than a football program.

“We are integrating our reproductive health education programs, Chat4Health and Belle by Choice, into sports activities to help flatten the curve of adolescent health crises, including HIV and unwanted pregnancy,” she said. “It’s about building leadership, agency, and informed decision-making among girls.”

This intervention is especially crucial in Ogun State, where current statistics reveal troubling trends:

The advocacy team also visited the Ministry of Health, where they met with Dr. Oshisanwo, Deputy Director of Public Health. She pledged to brief the Permanent Secretary and facilitated immediate access to state radio platforms for the Belle by Choice health talk segments.

Further engagements included submitting a formal request to the Primary Healthcare Board, with assurances of an upcoming meeting with the Director. At the Directorate of Nursing Services, the team was informed that preparations were underway for a formal meeting to discuss collaborative opportunities.

The Moment for Women magazine gathered that the Sport Girls’ Initiative is part of AGE Network’s broader campaign launched with support from the FIFA Foundation to advance girls’ rights through education, inclusion, and sport. By combining SRHR education with meaningful engagement through sports, the initiative seeks to transform narratives around adolescent girls, promote gender equality, and reduce their exposure to early pregnancy, forced marriage, and school dropout in the State.

“At AGE Network, we believe that building girls’ agency and creating safe, informed, and inclusive spaces for girls will reduce their vulnerability to child marriage, unwanted pregnancy, and HIV infection,” Ms. Ebri concluded.

For updates, follow @theAGENetwork across social platforms.

French Embassy in Abuja Announces Short-Term Administrative Officer Vacancy

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Abuja, Nigeria — The Embassy of France in Abuja has opened applications for a short-term Administrative Officer position to support its Administrative and Financial Department throughout the month of August 2025.

This temporary role offers a gross monthly remuneration of €565 (paid in Naira), including a 13th-month prorated allowance and transport premium, with working hours set at 38.5 hours per week, Monday through Friday.

Key Responsibilities:

The selected candidate will assist in day-to-day embassy operations, including:

  • Procuring office supplies and technical equipment
  • Overseeing maintenance contracts and ongoing facility works
  • Managing inventories
  • Supporting protocol duties such as visa and diplomatic card applications, customs processes, and coordinating with hotel establishments for visiting officials
  • Supervising embassy drivers, scheduling, and vehicle maintenance

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicants must:

  • Reside legally in Nigeria and possess a valid work authorization
  • Provide proof of a pension account (or open one prior to contract start)
  • Be fluent in English (French language proficiency is an advantage)
  • Be skilled in Microsoft Excel and Word
  • Demonstrate qualities such as punctuality, teamwork, communication, and adaptability

The role will report directly to the Head of the Administrative and Financial Service.

Application Instructions:

Interested candidates must submit the following to sga.abuja-amba@diplomatie.gouv.fr by 15 July 2025:

  • CV and Cover Letter
  • Copy of valid identity document
  • Copies of relevant diplomas

France to Fund Digital Resource Centres in Nigerian Universities

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Abuja, Nigeria – The Embassy of France in Nigeria has launched a strategic initiative to enhance education and language skills in Nigerian universities by supporting the establishment of Digital Resource Centres nationwide.

Universities are invited to apply by 15 August 2025 for a chance to receive equipment, software, and programming resources that promote French language learning, digital literacy, and students’ transversal skills, ultimately improving their employability in today’s evolving job market.

This initiative underscores France’s long-standing commitment to academic collaboration, digital innovation, and language education in Nigeria. By fostering modern learning environments, the Embassy seeks to equip Nigerian students with the tools and skills needed for global competitiveness.

Find more more about the eligibility criteria and how to participate, visit their website

Meta Launches Llama Impact Accelerator to Empower AI Startups Across Africa

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Lagos, Nigeria – June 2025 — Tech giant Meta has officially launched the Llama Impact Accelerator Program, a regional initiative aimed at supporting startups across Nigeria, Kenya, Senegal, and South Africa that are building impactful solutions using its open-source Llama large language models (LLMs).

The program, which is now open for applications, is designed to help African startups develop scalable, AI-powered solutions that address urgent challenges in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, public safety, and public services.

“This initiative is about equipping Africa’s next generation of innovators with the tools, mentorship, and funding they need to build ethical and locally relevant AI applications,” Meta stated in the program announcement.

Key Dates

  • Applications Open: May 26, 2025
  • Deadline: June 27, 2025
  • Accelerator Launch: August 2025
  • Demo Days: September – October 2025
  • Post-Program Support: October 2025 – March 2026

Benefits for Startups

  • Up to $25,000 in equity-free funding for top teams
  • Technical workshops and hands-on training with Llama AI tools
  • Mentorship from global industry leaders and AI experts
  • Post-program visibility, networking, and investor engagement
  • Eligibility to pitch for $100,000 in additional funding at the AMET Llama Summit

Startups must be based in one of the four eligible countries, have a working prototype or MVP, and demonstrate strong technical capability and a clear social impact. Each country has its own thematic focus, with a “Wild Card” category open for exceptional innovations outside the listed sectors.

To apply, startups should visit the country-specific application portals:

Meta’s Llama models, known for their efficiency and accessibility, are designed to bring the power of AI to a broader range of developers and researchers. This accelerator marks a major step in Meta’s commitment to supporting inclusive AI development across the Global South.

For more details or to attend the June 23 info session, visit the official Llama Impact Accelerator page.

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