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Mining Marshals Record Over 400 Arrests in One Year

Bilkisu Halilu Pai
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Mining Marshals Record Over 400 Arrests in One Year

In just over a year since their launch of operation, the Nigerian Mining Marshals have recorded over 405 arrests, charged 152 cases involving 252 suspects, and identified 599 illegal mining sites, significantly contributing to government revenue and community safety.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Voice of Nigeria, Commander of the Mining Marshals, Assistant Commandant of Corps, ACC, Atta Onoja, said the special unit established by the Federal Government on March 21, 2024, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, is fulfilling its mandate of combating illegal mining and safeguarding host communities.

“The mining marshal operation is living up to its expectations. We’ve cleared 64 sites involved in criminal activities such as banditry and drug trafficking,” the Commander said.

ACC Onoja credited the success to the decisive leadership and support of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, whom he described as “uncompromising in the fight against corruption.”

Reacting to reports that a traditional ruler in Nasarawa State, North-central, Nigeria, called for the removal of Mining Marshals, ACC Onoja said the complaint was baseless and likely politically motivated, describing them as attempts to blackmail young Nigerians doing their lawful duty.

“It is appalling that allegations are made without evidence, no death certificates, no families stepping forward. Yet, pictures of supposed deceased individuals are circulated to tarnish our image. Those photos could be from anywhere, even the internet.”

He warned that legal action would be taken against individuals and media outlets that publish unsubstantiated claims against the Mining Marshals.

ACC Onoja explained that the Marshal’s presence in Rafingaba, Agwada Development Area of Kokona Local Government Area in Nasarawa state followed a formal petition and intelligence regarding illegal mining.

“Their intervention began in October 2024, leading to arrests including three foreign nationals and five Nigerians, while the prime suspect and company, Demigloba, remain at large.”

Addressing media professionals, ACC Onoja urged journalists to practice responsible and ethical reporting by verifying allegations before publication.

“If a journalist publishes a false report, I will hold the publisher accountable. We are open 24/7 to provide accurate information. Our office doesn’t even use doors—we are always accessible.”

Beyond enforcement, he said the Mining Marshals have impacted mining communities by raising awareness on environmental and safety compliance, encouraging adherence to Community Development Agreements, and promoting legal registration of mining operations.

“Fear of enforcement is prompting higher compliance. Our work isn’t just about arrests, it’s about sustainable development,” ACC Onoja added.

While illegal mining occurs in all 36 States, ACC Onoja said it’s premature to label any State a hotspot due to limited operational coverage.

However, he emphasised that the Marshals operate under a structured command, with specialised legal, intelligence, forensic, and operational units.

“We’re not just fighting illegal miners, we are tackling a network of collaborators, even within government institutions.”

He reaffirmed the Mining Marshals’ commitment to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Solid Minerals Ministry’s seven-point plan.

“This fight is not for NSCDC alone. It is for the future of Nigeria. And we will not be deterred,” ACC Onoja assured.

Sokoto Commissioner Backs Extended Term for LG Leaders

Confidence Okwuchi
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Sokoto Commissioner Backs Extended Term for LG Leaders

The Sokoto State Commissioner for Local Governments and Community Development, Dr Ibrahim Dade-Adare, has described the state assembly’s decision to amend the law for the extension of local government chairmen and councillors’ tenure from two to three years as a welcome development.

Dr Dade-Adare stated this while reacting to the recent decision by the state assembly to amend the law in his office in Sokoto.

According to him, the extension would pave the way for local government councils to execute meaningful projects that have a direct impact on the lives of their people before leaving office.

“During the previous administration under the administration of Senator Aliyu Wamakko, the tenure was three years, while the last administration under Aminu Waziri Tambuwal reviewed it to two years.

“And now it’s necessary, the law has to be amended to extend to three years, because within a two-year timeframe, it’s very difficult for any meaningful and impactful projects to be realised.

“That’s why it’s been decided that such laws should be amended to reflect the reality of the actions to be taken by local government council chairmen,” Dr Dade-Adare said.

He noted that local councils were created as the closest tier of government to the people and to serve the interests of the entire community for development.

“If a local government council chairman is elected to serve a two-year term, the performance expectations would differ significantly compared to a three-year term.

“A three-year term would allow local government council chairmen to perform better for the benefit of our people.

“It will give the council members ample time; two and three years are not the same, so the extension will certainly help them come up with a series of projects that they are expected to provide to the people.

“We are always in support of whatever initiatives our leaders in the present government come up with that will benefit our people. Certainly, we are in support of our leaders’ actions as they help the people, and we solidly support our leaders,” he explained.

The commissioner also assured the people of the state that the present administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu would continue to initiate and execute more projects that have a direct impact on sustainable development in the state.

“Governor Aliyu has pledged to achieve his 9-Point Smart Agenda, which he is diligently following, and we are also supporting him to achieve those goals.

“Therefore, we appeal for people to support the Ahmed Aliyu-led administration, offer prayers, and have confidence in its performance so far.

“The state government is continuously supporting areas witnessing security challenges by providing security apparatus to maintain peace and stability,” he added.

 

Confidence Okwuchi

Presidency Affirms 5-Year Multiple-Entry Visas for US Citizens

Bilkisu Halilu Pai
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0
Presidency Affirms 5-Year Multiple-Entry Visas for US Citizens

The Presidency has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to visa reciprocity, stressing that contrary to widespread misinformation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has never halted the issuance of 5-year multiple-entry visas to US citizens.

Presidential Spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, clarified in a statement on Thursday, saying that claims that President Bola Tinubu has stopped issuing 5-year multiple-entry visas to US citizens are false and misleading.

Onanuga said President Tinubu’s stance is in accordance with the principle of subsisting bilateral agreements and reciprocity.

He emphasised that the Nigerian government has not deviated from granting US citizens a 5-year multiple-entry non-immigrant visa, just as the US has continued to grant the same to Nigerians.

The Presidential aide highlighted that on assumption of office, President Tinubu’s administration issued a directive mandating Nigeria to fully honor all bilateral agreements with other countries and to strictly observe the principle of reciprocity in its diplomatic engagements.

Onanuga further stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stressed the position of the Federal Government of Nigeria on the recent adjustment made by the United States’ non-immigrant visa policy for Nigerians.

He affirmed that the Ministry and other senior government officials will continue to engage with the United States to address the unfavourable restrictions in a just and fair manner that reflects the mutual respect and partnership that exist between the two nations.

The Presidential Spokesperson reiterated that the US government’s claim of reciprocity as the reason for its current visa policy towards Nigeria does not accurately reflect the actual situation.

According to the Presidential aide, “The 90-day single-entry Visa validity period only applies to the newly introduced e-Visas, a short-term visa category for tourists and business people who may not wish to undergo the standard visa application process and wait. The e-visa replaces the now obsolete Visa-on-arrival, which was inefficient and often used as a means of extortion. The e-visa is a fast, online process that does not require the applicant to go to the embassy. Applicants receive the e-Visa within 48 hours of submitting their application.”

Onanuga further stated that the e-visa policy aligns with President Tinubu’s efforts to boost investment, trade, and tourism in the country, as well as promote the ease of doing business for non-nationals.

“Moreover, e-visas are a widely adopted global policy in dozens of countries.”

“Although Nigeria has an e-visa policy for citizens of the US and several other countries, the US has not reciprocated this gesture for Nigerians.”

Onanuga assured that the Tinubu-led administration will continue to dialogue and engage with US authorities to resolve any issues that have led to the recent developments.

“In the spirit of cooperation, mutual understanding, and partnership that have characterised the relationship between Nigeria and the United States over the decades, the Tinubu-led administration will continue to dialogue and engage with US authorities to resolve any issues that have led to the recent developments,” the Presidential aide added.

Ogun First Lady Unveils Endoscopy Machine at Teaching Hospital

Manomsi Mallum
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Ogun First Lady Unveils Endoscopy Machine at Teaching Hospital

The wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, has unveiled an endoscopy machine at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu, as part of her ongoing commitment to improving healthcare delivery in the state through her Ajose Foundation.

The machine was donated in partnership with Naykas Healthcare Incorporated, a US-based medical team that has consistently provided free medical care and surgeries to indigent residents of Ogun State.

Speaking at the unveiling, Mrs Abiodun commended the Naykas medical team for their continued support, noting that the collaboration had significantly boosted the hospital’s diagnostic and treatment capacity over the years.

Read Also: Kwara Agency Inspects Pharmacies To Ensure Environmental Safety

She added that the institution had benefited from the regular donation of modern medical equipment aimed at strengthening health service delivery.

She also expressed appreciation to the hospital’s management and medical personnel for their cooperation and synergy with the visiting international team.

Mrs Abiodun advised citizens to seek early medical intervention, especially for treatable conditions, to improve health outcomes.

The head of the medical team, Dr Musbau Kasumu, explained that the endoscopy machine would significantly enhance diagnostic accuracy, enabling detailed internal examinations and more targeted treatments.

He highlighted the potential of the new equipment to improve patient outcomes, especially in the early detection of conditions like colon cancer, which is fully curable if diagnosed early.

Dr Kasumu further disclosed that the team had already performed 42 cataract surgeries within two days and planned to conduct about 200 surgeries during their one-week outreach programme.

The Chief Medical Director of OOUTH, Dr Bunmi Fatungase, stated that the initiative aligned with the Ogun State Government’s broader efforts to improve medical infrastructure and expand access to quality healthcare.

She added that the endoscopy machine would support both diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, contributing significantly to cancer prevention and treatment efforts.

Dr Fatungase lauded the donors for their invaluable contribution, emphasising the critical role of early diagnosis in saving lives.

 

Constitution Review: Deputy Speaker Woos Media Executives’ Support

Bilkisu Halilu Pai
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0
Constitution Review: Deputy Speaker Woos Media Executives’ Support

The Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Mr. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has solicited the partnership of editors and media executives in the ongoing constitution review process.

Speaking during a parley with top media managers under the auspices of Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) in Abuja on Wednesday, Kalu, who recognized the pivotal role of the media in shaping public discourse and ensuring transparency, emphasized the importance of working together to facilitate a comprehensive and inclusive review that reflects the aspirations of Nigerians.

He stated that the engagement with media chiefs aims to create a platform for open dialogue, constructive feedback, and informed public participation in the review process.

He said the constitution review process is expected to address emerging national challenges and align laws with citizens’ aspirations.

Key areas of focus, Kalu said, include electoral reforms, judicial reforms, devolution of powers, state policing, economic development, gender issues, and inclusivity, among others.

The Deputy Speaker, who is also the chairman of the House’s Constitution Review Committee, urged media executives to intensify their efforts in the panel at every level, while also calling on Nigerians to participate actively in the forthcoming zonal public hearings and provide their input.

He said that together, the lawmakers, media executives, and Nigerians can create a more just, equitable, and prosperous society for all through a people-oriented government.

“As the fourth estate, you are our partners in progress, and your role in shaping public discourse towards transparency, good governance, and holding us accountable is deeply acknowledged and essential to our nation’s progress.

“As we move forward with the constitution review process, I urge you all to amplify our efforts in the committee. And to Nigerians, you are the reason we are here. I urge you all to please participate actively in the zonal public hearings and provide your inputs.”

“We truly, truly need your partnership. And let me also appeal, please cover the public hearings well, all the zonal public hearings. Inform the people working under you to pay special attention to covering it across the nation. That’s very important to us. And then, also prepare for the national public hearing, which is coming up on the 21st of July,” Mr. Kalu said.

The Deputy Speaker, who also received a copy of a proposal from the NGE, on amendment to the media laws in Nigeria to enable the practitioners hold government to account, assured that the committee will look into the issues raised in the document.

“We will want this engagement to go beyond the constitutional amendment period. You are a sector that is key. You market this country both to Nigerians and those who are outside the country. Your narrative is important. Tailor the narrative to reflect the dignity of this nation, to embrace investors and other key stakeholders. I am promising that my committee will look at issues raised in this document critically,” Kalu said.

Read Also: NASS Urged To Pass Law Criminalizing Unexplained Weath 

The Deputy President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Sabastine Abu, assured the Deputy Speaker that the guild would work with the constitutional review committee.

He also called for the amendment to the media laws in Nigeria to enable the practitioners to hold the government to account.

The Executive Director of the Policy Legislative Advocacy Centre (PLAC), Mr. Clement Nwankwo, explained the importance of the media to the success of the constitutional review.

He also pointed out the need to amend the constitution to create special seats for women in the parliament.

In their contributions, other stakeholders lauded the media parley.

Anglo-Nigerian partnership berths ₦1.5Billion Creative Sector Fund, podcast hub

mazino dickson
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Anglo-Nigerian partnership berths ₦1.5Billion Creative Sector Fund, podcast hub

 

In a groundbreaking move to boost Nigeria’s creative economy, Woodhall Finance House has unveiled a ₦1.5 billion Creative Sector Fund alongside a podcast hub called The Creative Currency Podcast.

This initiative was made possible through the support of the UK Government’s Department for Business and Trade, Polaris Bank, and the Lagos State Government.

While the fund is aimed at supporting export-ready businesses and SMEs across fashion, film, music, beauty, and digital arts, the Creative Currency Podcast is a dynamic new platform designed to serve as both a storytelling hub and an economic engine for the continent’s creative sector.

Hunponu-Wusu, Woodhall Capital Founder and President, said the twin-initiative would significantly give Nigerian creatives the opportunity to build capacity while at the same time telling Nigerian stories to a global audience.

“Creativity is not just an abstract concept—it’s a bankable commodity. We must start treating it as such. Nobody can tell the Nigerian story better than Nigerians,” she stated.

“This fund is our commitment to building our own systems, financing our own stories, and converting cultural capital into real economic power.”

Growth

Jonny Baxter, British Deputy High Commissioner, said the initiative is poised to harness the power of policy, capital, and narrative to unlock sustainable growth within one of Africa’s most promising export sectors.

“The UK is proud to support Nigeria’s creative economy through long-term partnerships that blend innovation, investment, and cultural exchange,” he said.

“Platforms like The Creative Currency Podcast, along with the Creative Industries Technical Working Group established under the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), reflect our deep commitment to creating real opportunities, building lasting partnerships, and empowering the next generation of African talent to shine globally.”

“The launch event, held in Lagos, brought together an influential mix of policymakers, investors, development finance leaders, high-net-worth individuals, and prominent creatives from across Africa.”

The initiative is poised to harness the power of policy, capital, and narrative to unlock sustainable growth within one of Africa’s most promising export sectors.

Positioned at the intersection of finance, culture, and diplomacy, The Creative Currency Podcast aims to catalyze investment, foster international collaboration, and strengthen the UK-Nigeria creative alliance—helping to transform the sector into a global economic force.

Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Bada Ambrose, delivered a keynote that reinforced Lagos’s role as Africa’s creative heartbeat.

A high-level panel discussion on financing Africa’s creative economy featured Mrs. Abimbola Ozomah (Executive Director, Polaris Bank), Sola Carrena (MD/CEO, Helios Investment Partners), and Mrs. Mojisola Hunponu-Wusu (President, Woodhall Capital). The session emphasized the urgent need for innovative funding mechanisms—such as blended finance, creative bonds, and factoring—to unlock the sector’s full economic potential.

The evening also featured a vibrant fireside chat on “UK-Nigeria Cultural Synergies to Drive Global Innovation and Transformation,” with contributions from fashion designer Veekee James Atere, actress and singer Shaffy Bello, and Mark Smithson, UK’s Country Director for the Department for Business and Trade.

The trio explored how cross-cultural collaboration can open new creative frontiers.

The celebration wrapped up with a cultural exchange under the UK’s Jollof and Tea campaign—a symbolic blend of British and Nigerian identities through food, storytelling, and high-level networking. Guests shared reflections on identity, investment, and the future of African creativity on the global stage.

The Creative Currency Podcast is more than just a platform—it’s a strategic tool for economic transformation.

As global demand for African creativity accelerates, initiatives like this are essential to turning visibility into viability, and culture into capital.

 

President Tinubu Urges Governor Okpebholo To Bridge Divides

Bilkisu Halilu Pai
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0
President Tinubu Urges Governor Okpebholo To Bridge Divides

President Bola Tinubu has called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to show magnanimity in victory and unite the people of Edo State across all divides to collectively pursue the goal of advancing the state’s development.

Congratulating Governor Okpebholo on the affirmation of his election by the Supreme Court, President Tinubu advised him, “to accelerate the delivery of exceptional services and good governance to the people of Edo State, which he has already begun to do.”

Read Also: Senate President Calls for Stronger Nigeria-Morocco Ties

In a congratulatory message issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President felicitated the leadership and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State and called for cohesion and dedication in effectively discharging the mandate given by the people.

Governor Monday Okpebholo was declared the winner of the Edo State governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in September 2024.

The Supreme Court of Nigeria affirmed the election of Monday Okpebholo as the Governor of Edo State, upholding his victory in the September 21, 2024, governorship election.

President Ruto Orders Kenyan Police to Curb Protest Vandalism

Hauwa Mustapha
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President Ruto Orders Kenyan Police to Curb Protest Vandalism

“Shoot in the leg”: Kenya’s president William Ruto ordered police forces to curb vandalism from protesters by incapacitating anyone trying to damage businesses.

The move comes as the situation in the country has been worsening, with anti-government protests rocking the capital and neighbouring areas.

At least 31 people were killed on Monday in the worst death toll of the protests so far, according to the country’s rights watchdog.

Kenyan police meanwhile said that 11 people died.

More than 500 were reportedly arrested during the Saba Saba protests on Monday, which marked the 35th anniversary of Kenya’s transition to multi-party democracy.

Several acts of vandalism and destroyed businesses were reported in Nairobi in the aftermath of the protests.

For president Ruto, speaking at the opening of a police station, the situation is “not acceptable”.

The Kenyan president added that he would use “whatever means necessary” to stabilise the country.

Africanews/Hauwa M.

UK Introduces eVisas for Nigerian Students, Workers

mazino dickson
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UK Introduces eVisas for Nigerian Students, Workers

 

Effective from 15 July 2025, the United Kingdom will begin issuing electronic visas (eVisas) to most applicants seeking entry for study or work purposes.

This transition means that successful applicants will no longer receive a physical visa vignette (sticker) in their passports.

Instead, they will be granted a secure digital visa, accessible online via a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.

Applicants who submit their applications before this date will continue to follow the current process, which includes: submitting their passport at a Visa Application Centre (VAC), and eceiving a physical vignette sticker upon approval

The UK government said this development represents a significant milestone in its efforts to establish a modern, digital immigration system.

Visitor visa applicants, as well as dependants (e.g., spouses or children) of individuals applying for study or work visas, will continue to receive a physical vignette for the time being.

“We’re making it easier and faster for Nigerians to travel to the UK. From 15 July 2025, most people applying for study or work visas will receive a digital eVisa instead of a visa sticker in their passport“, said Gill Lever (OBE), Chargé d’Affaires at the British High Commission in Abuja.

“This is a further big step toward a fully digital UK immigration system—making the process more secure, more efficient, and more convenient for students, professionals, and families.”

She, however, noted that if an individual applies as a dependant—like a spouse or child of someone who is studying or working in the UK—or if applying for a visitor visa, such an applicant would still receive a visa vignette sticker in the passport for the time being.

The eVisas have already replaced Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) for individuals granted leave for over six months.

Customers with a UKVI account can use the View and Prove service to securely share their immigration status with third parties, such as employers or landlords.

Insight

According to the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS), Nigeria submitted over 230,000 UK visa applications across all categories—a significant contribution, accounting for roughly 6% of global visit visa applications in 2024.

Between June 2023 and June 2024, approximately 225,000 applications were processed from Nigeria, including both approved and rejected cases.

However, March 2024 saw a 38% year-over-year drop in UK study visas to Nigerian students as compared to March 2023.

Powerfully linked, in 2024, Nigerian-sponsored student visas declined by 55% from 2023—one of the steepest among leading source nations.

The volume fell to roughly 18,900 sponsored student visas in 2024, placing Nigeria fourth among international student sources behind China, India, and Pakistan.

Over the 12 months to June 2024, total sponsored study visas dropped 13%, with Nigerian numbers plunging 46% relative to the previous year

Soludo’s Wife Urges Voters to Get PVCs

Confidence Okwuchi
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0
Soludo’s Wife Urges Voters to Get PVCs

The Anambra State Governor’s wife, Dr Nonye Soludo, has issued a strong call to action, urging residents of the state to actively participate in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, which commenced this month and runs until July 17.

In a statement released recently, Dr. Soludo described the exercise as a vital civic duty, emphasising that obtaining a Permanent Voter Card (PVC) is the first and most crucial step toward influencing leadership and driving meaningful change in the state.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially kicked off the much-awaited Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) for all voting categories in Anambra State,” she stated.

The registration will hold daily across all 326 political wards from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., including weekends.

Dr. Soludo explained that the exercise was open to individuals who need new PVCs, have relocated, misplaced or damaged their cards, or are yet to collect theirs from previous registration rounds.

She encouraged eligible residents to take advantage of what she described as a “great window” to register, update, or retrieve their voting credentials.

“Don’t let this opportunity pass you by,” she urged. “If you are staying in Anambra and are of voting age, ensure you’re not left behind. This is your right and your responsibility.”

She reiterated that the PVC was the only legitimate tool through which citizens can express their political will.

“It is only with your PVC that you can translate your voice into real action. Don’t disenfranchise yourself. Find time to do what’s right. Get that PVC,” she appealed.

Dr. Soludo concluded her message with a prayer: “May Anambra continue to rise.”

Her remarks have resonated particularly with young and first-time voters, sparking renewed enthusiasm as the state prepares for its November 8, 2025, gubernatorial election.

 

Confidence Okwuchi

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