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Details: Trump’s visa clampdown linked to Nigeria’s refusal to house asylum seekers – REPORT

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July 11, 2025

Details: Trump’s visa clampdown linked to Nigeria’s refusal to house asylum seekers – REPORT

Nigeria’s refusal to accept asylum seekers from the United States is partly responsible for the recent visa restrictions imposed on the country by President Donald Trump, TheCable reports.

TheCable understands that the talks are part of broader demands from the Trump administration which are currently being negotiated.

Diplomatic sources told TheCable that the US president has been putting pressure on many countries to serve as temporary home for asylum seekers until their cases are treated — and this usually takes up to seven years.

While some countries have agreed, Nigeria has refused to be part of the arrangement.

Trump typically raises the bar in negotiations by slamming very high penalties on the other party until he gets the better part of the bargain.

He has been applying this strategy in his tariff war with a number of countries.

The US embassy had announced on Tuesday a reduction in the validity period and entry allowance for “most” non-immigrant and non-diplomatic visas issued to Nigerians, effectively limiting the legality of their stay in the US to three months with a single entry.

An alleged imbalance in visa reciprocity from Nigeria was cited on social media as reason for the hard-hitting penalty, although the exact details were not made public by the US.

The announcement came as a shock to Nigerians and there were claims — now confirmed to be false — that Nigeria caused the policy change by stopping to issue five-year visas to American citizens.

A physical embassy-issued Nigerian visa for US citizens still has a validity that ranges from three months to five years, with either single or multiple entry — depending on the visa category.

Nigeria introduced its e-visa on March 1, aiming to make the process more accessible by eliminating the need for embassy visits and the highly poorly managed visa on arrival.

The e-visa is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance and allows single entry into Nigeria with a maximum stay of 30 days.

The changes were not limited to US citizens as they affected ALL non-ECOWAS nationals requiring visas to enter Nigeria.

However, the US does not offer such a visa category to Nigerians despite the reciprocity agreement.

Diplomatic sources told TheCable that the bone of contention is beyond the non-existent gaps in visa reciprocity.

FAILED DEAL TO SEND ASYLUM SEEKERS

Since taking office in January, Trump has signed a flurry of executive orders aimed at deporting millions of “illegal immigrants” — many of whom are asylum seekers — back to their countries of origin.

The US also pressured third countries to accept deported individuals who were not their nationals, a move widely condemned by human rights groups.

Some of the considered Central American countries were El Salvador and Panama, while in Africa, Libya, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Djibouti were identified as preferred destinations.

A few of these countries have already received some deportees.

On June 9, the US supreme court cleared the way for migrants to be deported to third countries — even to those facing conflict — instead of returning them to their home nations.

TheCable learnt that the US also approached Nigeria to receive the deported asylum seekers.

While the specifics of the arrangement were not disclosed, diplomatic sources confirmed that discussions took place but were unsuccessful owing to Nigeria’s unwillingness to accept non-citizens, many of whom had a number of years left to finalise their asylum applications.

A large number of the deportees are also believed to be convicted prisoners.

The proposed arrangement closely mirrors the controversial asylum deal between the United Kingdom and Rwanda, which faced legal and political setbacks and remained largely unimplemented.

Under the scheme, the Home Office agreed to pay money to support economic growth in Rwanda and provide extra payments to cover the cost of processing and relocating migrants there.

The UK government has already paid £220 million to Rwanda under the arrangement.

But shortly after assuming office, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the plan had been “dead and buried”.

MORE DEMANDS

TheCable learnt that the US also pushed for the option of allowing its citizens to electronically apply for Nigeria’s five-year visa without visiting an embassy.

But sources familiar with the negotiations said Nigeria was not open to the request, citing concerns over reciprocity, as similar American visa privileges are not extended to Nigerians.

In its Tuesday updated visa policy, the US embassy said Nigeria still needs to meet certain criteria to improve the visa reciprocity standing.

The embassy listed the requirement to include issuing secure travel documents with verifiable identities, effectively managing visa overstays, and sharing relevant security and criminal record information with US authorities.

TheCable understands that what the US wants is access to Nigeria’s criminal database so that Nigerians with previous criminal records who are now living in the US can be identified for deportation.

‘THE ART OF THE DEAL’

Since returning to the presidency, Trump has wielded the tactics outlined in his co-authored book, ‘The Art of the Deal’, as the blueprint for his approach to global negotiations, particularly on tariffs and migration deportations.

The president’s signature style — marked by bold threats, high-stakes brinkmanship, and a willingness to walk away — has shaped both US trade policy and immigration enforcement.

On tariffs, he has repeatedly imposed steep levies on trading partners, only to offer temporary reprieves as leverage for bilateral agreements.

Nigeria’s alignment with BRICS, an economic bloc Trump has repeatedly criticised, has done little to draw favours from the US presidency.

On Wednesday, Nigeria was conspicuously absent in Trump’s meeting with other African leaders at the White House aimed at improving economic cooperation .

In reaction to the visa policy update, Nigeria said the decision appeared misaligned with the principles of reciprocity, equity, and mutual respect that should guide bilateral engagements between friendly nations.

Nigeria urged the US to reconsider its decision in the spirit of partnership, cooperation, and shared global responsibilities. Read More

Credit: TheCable

[PHOTOS] Aregbesola Flags Off ADC Southwest Mobilization in Ondo, Vows to Challenge APC in 2027

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July 11, 2025

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[PHOTOS] Aregbesola Flags Off ADC Southwest Mobilization in Ondo, Vows to Challenge APC in 2027

The Ondo visit marks the beginning of a broader Southwest strategy aimed at consolidating support across the region’s six states

[PHOTOS] Aregbesola Flags Off ADC Southwest Mobilization in Ondo, Vows to Challenge APC in 2027

Former Osun State Governor and ex-Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, has officially launched a major grassroots mobilization campaign in the Southwest for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling a bold move to reshape the region’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Aregbesola, now the National Secretary of the ADC, kickstarted the tour in Akure, Ondo State, where he met with key opposition figures and energized supporters drawn from various parts of the state.

In his address, Aregbesola described the ADC as a party rooted in progressive ideals and people-centred governance, declaring that it is “a principled stand to put the people first at the centre of government and politics.”

“Our goal is to bring a people-friendly government and people-friendly politics that truly place the people at the heart of governance,” he stated, drawing loud cheers from the gathering.

The Ondo visit marks the beginning of a broader Southwest strategy aimed at consolidating support across the region’s six states—Ondo, Ekiti, Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, and Osun—as the ADC-led opposition coalition positions itself to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

Aregbesola called on Nigerians disillusioned with the current state of the nation to align with the ADC’s vision.

“We are a beacon for progressives who believe in justice, equity, and a better Nigeria. If you feel abandoned by the present administration, now is the time to rise, reclaim your voice, and shape the future,” he urged.

Insiders reveal that similar mobilization efforts, led by Aregbesola, are already being planned in the remaining Southwest states, where the former minister retains significant grassroots influence.

The event ended on a high note as Aregbesola led the crowd in the party’s rousing slogan: “ADC! Arise and Shine!”—a chant that echoed throughout the venue.

With the ADC’s Southwest campaign now underway, political observers say the stage is set for a heated contest as opposition forces rally to disrupt the ruling party’s stronghold in the region.

APC Yewa South Declares Support for Hon. Waliu Taiwo’s 2027 Senate Bid

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July 11, 2025

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APC Yewa South Declares Support for Hon. Waliu Taiwo’s 2027 Senate Bid

In a charged atmosphere filled with emotion and admiration, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yewa South Local Government Area hosted a special political gathering in honour of Hon. (Engr.) Waliu Olayiwola Taiwo on Thursday, declaring total support for his 2027 senatorial ambition.

Described as a “tested, trusted and reliable” political figure, Hon. Taiwo was praised for his deep empathy, selfless service, and unwavering commitment to the development of Ogun West Senatorial District.

At the event held in Ilaro, party stakeholders—including the APC Secretary in Yewa South, Women Leaders, the LG Youth Leader, and all Ward Chairmen—unanimously described Hon. Taiwo as a man deserving of the Senate seat. The meeting was convened and coordinated by former Yewa South LG Chairman, Hon. Idowu Adeyemi.

“It’s payback time for Hon. Waliu Taiwo’s past good deeds,” Hon. Adeyemi declared, noting that the gathering was initiated by APC elders and leaders to express their full backing for Taiwo’s 2027 Red Chamber aspiration.

Adeyemi further commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for supporting Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola Yayi, whose return to Ogun State he said has elevated legislative representation in Ogun West.

“Hon. Taiwo’s goodwill cuts across Ogun West. His legacy of building people within and outside the political space is legendary,” Adeyemi added.

APC LG Secretary Hon. Kayode Salako affirmed the party’s readiness to lead the charge for Taiwo’s senatorial bid.

“The assignment of delivering Hon. Taiwo is ours. When the time comes, we’ll take up the campaign ourselves,” he said.

Responding to the outpouring of goodwill, Hon. Waliu Taiwo expressed deep appreciation for the honour and solidarity shown by the party faithful.

“The kind words and support I’ve received here today have touched me. It confirms that what goes around truly comes around. This pushes me to do even more for our people,” he said.

Hon. Taiwo also applauded Governor Abiodun’s leadership and reiterated his full support for Senator Yayi’s anticipated 2027 governorship bid.

“Ogun West has no better opportunity than now with Senator Yayi. We must rally behind him in one voice. He’s transformed Ogun West and is expanding his impact statewide,” he stated.

He also commended the contributions of Chief Mufutau Ajibola, Chief (Mrs) Iyabo Apampa, and Hon. Olayode for their leadership roles in the “Lai for Senate” movement.

A major highlight of the event was the official presentation of “Lai Taiwo for Senate” banners to all Ward Chairmen to kickstart grassroots mobilization across the LG.

Dignitaries who accompanied Hon. Taiwo from Ado-Odo/Ota LG included Chief Ayo Akanbi (Agbara Ward), Elder Taiwo Oke, Chief Samson Olapo, Hon. Kayode Taiwo, Hon. Oweyon, Ogun State Chairman of Ward Chairmen Hon. Yakubu Olanrewaju (Ijoko Ward), and several women leaders.

With the resounding endorsement, Yewa South LG has firmly positioned itself as a stronghold ready to drive Hon. Lai Taiwo’s senatorial ambition into full motion. Read More

New Lagos Housing Law to Redefine Landlord-Tenant Dealings, End Agent Disputes

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July 11, 2025

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New Lagos Housing Law to Redefine Landlord-Tenant Dealings, End Agent Disputes

A new housing law recently passed in Lagos State has been hailed as a landmark reform set to redefine the legal framework between landlords, tenants, and estate agents.

Described by lawmakers as “long overdue,” the law aims to modernise housing relationships and reduce the persistent conflicts that have plagued the rental sector in Africa’s most populous city.

“This law is long overdue and will modernise housing relationships in Lagos,” said a visibly optimistic lawmaker, Mr. Ajayi Oladele (Ibeju-Lekki II), during the legislative session.

He stressed that the newly passed bill is expected to curb the growing tension and disputes often caused by unregulated estate agents.

“For the first time, everyone will understand their legal standing clearly,” Oladele added.

Also speaking in support of the legislation, Ms. Omolara Olumegbon (Lagos-Island I) praised the law’s clarity on key issues, especially around rent timelines and eviction procedures.

“This bill promotes fairness and addresses rent timelines — monthly or yearly — and how they relate to eviction processes,” she noted.

The new law is seen as a step forward in creating a more transparent and predictable housing environment in Lagos, where disputes over rent, agency fees, and arbitrary evictions have been frequent sources of tension.

Stakeholders expect the law to ease tenant-landlord relationships, regulate agency practices, and ultimately contribute to a more stable real estate market in the state. Read More

Key Tips For Building Sustainable Partnerships From UBA Business Series

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July 11, 2025

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Key Tips For Building Sustainable Partnerships From UBA Business Series

United Bank for Africa (UBA) brought together top entrepreneurs and professionals for an insightful session that highlighted the critical elements required to build and sustain powerful business partnerships, especially for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Focusing on the theme, “Stronger Together: Building Powerful Businesses through Partnerships,” the session, held on Thursday at UBA House in Lagos and streamed live to viewers across Africa, explored how value alignment, shared vision, and compatibility drive long-term success.

The event featured a diverse panel of speakers, including fashion entrepreneur Mai Atafo, beauty entrepreneur Dabota Lawson, real estate investor Wale Ayilara, and journalist and TV producer Peace Hyde, who all shared personal experiences and practical strategies for forming productive and enduring business alliances.

Avoid transactional relationships, pursue strategic value

Dabota Lawson, who started her beauty business to make people feel included through her products, shared how her journey taught her the limitations of chasing exposure at the expense of strategic value.

“Early on, I chased exposure – sending products to influencers with millions of followers. But visibility doesn’t always equal sales,” she said. “I shifted focus to value-driven partnerships: labs for product development, logistics for efficiency, and beauty professionals who align with my brand.”

Choose partners who share your vision

For Peace Hyde, partnerships must go beyond financial support. She emphasised the need for SMEs to work with partners who are aligned with their current goals.

“Partner with those who believe in your current vision, not just where you could be. Money isn’t everything; sometimes distribution or audience access matters more,” she noted. “Choosing the right partners—not just the highest bidder—can lead to global success.”

Start small, build smart

Wale Ayilara, who ventured into real estate while still a student, spoke on the importance of leveraging existing relationships and starting modestly.

“You need to leverage whatever you have. Start small, co-own properties with trusted friends. In university, I pooled funds with classmates to solve accommodation shortages,” he explained. “Real estate is unavoidable—everyone needs it—but risks like scams exist. Research, start modestly, and scale deliberately.”

Set boundaries, verify everything

l-r: Head, SME Banking, United Bank for Africa, Babatunde Ajayi; Head, Remittance, UBA, Uzoamaka Onyeka, Fashion Entrepreneur, Mai Atafo; Journalist and TV producer, Peace Hyde; Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo; Real Estate Mogul and Entrepreneur, Wale Ayilara and Beauty Entrepreneur, Dabota Lawson, during the UBA Small Medium Enterprise (SME) Business Series, themed ***‘,‘***“Stronger Together: Building Powerful Business Partnerships for Progress ’held at UBA house , Marina, Lagos, yesterday…

Fashion entrepreneur Mai Atafo, who left a high-paying job to pursue his passion, advised business owners to clearly define their priorities and adopt a rigorous, research-driven approach.

“Define boundaries early. Choose your lane—whether it is artistry or profit—and research relentlessly,” he said. “Assume everything you hear is a lie until you verify it. Inquisitive learning is everything.”

Empowering entrepreneurs with practical tools

Welcoming participants, Shamsideen Fashola, Group Head of Retail and Digital Banking at UBA, said the quarterly business event is designed to equip entrepreneurs with tools and strategies to grow their ventures.

“We are thrilled to host this transformative event here and virtually across the continent,” he said. “At UBA, our commitment to business development and financial inclusion drives this initiative, and we’re excited to bring together brilliant minds to share insights on the power of collaboration.”

Also speaking, Alero Ladipo, UBA’s Group Head of Corporate and Marketing Communications, highlighted the importance of not just listening to speakers but acting on the insights shared.

“There’s so much to learn—but it’s not just about feeling excited. It’s about taking the lessons shared, researching the information, retaining it, and reminding yourself of it,” she said.

With over 45 million customers and a presence in 20 African countries, alongside the United Kingdom, the United States, France, and the United Arab Emirates, UBA continues to champion financial inclusion and entrepreneurial support across the continent. Read More

Senate Replaces Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as Diaspora Committee Chair

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July 11, 2025

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Senate Replaces Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as Diaspora Committee Chair

The Senate has officially replaced suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations, appointing Senator Aniekan Bassey in her place.

The announcement was made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary on Thursday, marking a significant reshuffle within the upper legislative chamber.

Senator Bassey, who represents Akwa Ibom North-East, now steps into the role previously held by Akpoti-Uduaghan, one of only three female senators in the current National Assembly. She had been reassigned to the Diaspora Committee in February, following her earlier removal from the Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Content.

Though the Senate offered no official explanation for Thursday’s replacement, the development is widely believed to be linked to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lingering suspension, which remains unresolved despite a court ruling in her favour.

In May, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court ruled her suspension “excessive and unconstitutional” and ordered her reinstatement. However, the Senate has maintained that it is yet to receive a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment and therefore considers the matter unresolved.

Speaking during a televised interview earlier this week, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan said she was awaiting the CTC before returning to the chamber, citing legal counsel and a desire to follow due process.

“By keeping me out of the chambers, the Senate is not just silencing Kogi Central—it’s denying Nigerian women and children representation. We are only three female senators now, down from eight,” she said.

However, a legal opinion dated July 5, allegedly issued by Senate counsel Paul Daudu (SAN), contended that the court’s ruling lacked binding force compelling immediate enforcement.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, remains in limbo despite the judicial pronouncement, as political and legal complexities continue to delay her reinstatement.

Olota of Otta Commended as Iloti Royal Family Welcomes Fresh Nomination for Onikosi of Osi Otta

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July 10, 2025

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This development follows recent efforts by the Olota to strengthen traditional institutions and ensure that succession processes reflect equity and ancestral customs

Olota of Otta Commended as Iloti Royal Family Welcomes Fresh Nomination for Onikosi of Osi Otta

In a gesture that underscores traditional leadership and fairness in Ota Kingdom, the Iloti Royal Family has publicly expressed gratitude to His Royal Majesty, Oba (Prof.) Abdukabir Adeyemi Obalanlege, the Olota of Otta, for initiating a fresh nomination process to fill the vacant stool of the Onikosi of Osi Otta, after first process was declared null and void as a result of irregularities during the voting process.

In a formally signed letter addressed to the monarch, the royal family hailed the Olota’s decision as a reflection of his deep commitment to justice, transparency, and the continued development of the Osi Otta community.

“We commend your fatherly and leadership role in giving us a second chance to conduct a new nomination process,” the letter reads in part. “Your wise decision reflects your commitment to fairness and the well-being of our community.”

Signed by Prince Hassan Raimi, Royal Secretary, and Prince Ismail O. Ashade, Head of the Iloti Royal Family, the statement emphasized the family’s readiness to ensure a fair and inclusive nomination. It further stated their intention to work collaboratively with the Olota’s palace and the newly appointed regent of Osi Otta to guarantee a smooth and successful process.

The Iloti Royal Family pledged to communicate the official date of the nomination process in due course and reaffirmed their commitment to traditional protocols and communal harmony.

The stool of Onikosi remains a significant traditional position within the cultural and historical fabric of Ota Kingdom, and the renewed process is expected to restore continuity and leadership to the Osi Otta quarters.

This development follows recent efforts by the Olota to strengthen traditional institutions and ensure that succession processes reflect equity and ancestral customs. Read More

Details: EFCC Uncovers Massive Corruption in NNPCL, Tracks Looted Assets to Iceland

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July 10, 2025

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“An internal EFCC analysis showed that 90 per cent of stolen public funds in one year were moved abroad. That money could have built hospitals, schools, and supported millions of Nigerian students from primary to tertiary level”

Details: EFCC Uncovers Massive Corruption in NNPCL, Tracks Looted Assets to Iceland

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has revealed alarming discoveries of corruption within the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), describing the scale of financial misconduct as “mind-boggling.”

Speaking on Wednesday at the National Conference on Public Accounts and Fiscal Governance—organized by the Public Accounts Committees of the Senate and House of Representatives in Abuja—Olukoyede disclosed that a preliminary investigation into the NNPCL has already unearthed serious financial anomalies.

“In the last three weeks, we launched a commission-wide investigation into the extractive industry, particularly the oil and gas sector. What we have discovered is mind-boggling,” he said.
“And we have only just opened the books. If this is what we’re seeing at the surface, imagine what lies beneath.”

The anti-corruption boss linked Nigeria’s insecurity challenges—ranging from terrorism to kidnapping—to the mismanagement of public resources, especially in the oil and gas sector.

“There is a very strong connection between the mismanagement of our resources and insecurity. When you look at banditry, kidnapping, terrorism—trace it back, and you will find a pattern of corrupt practices and diversion of funds meant to improve people’s lives,” he stated.

The NNPCL recently underwent a leadership change, with President Bola Tinubu removing Mele Kyari as Group Chief Executive Officer in April and appointing Bashir Ojulari in his place.

Olukoyede called on the National Assembly to urgently pass the Unexplained Wealth Bill, which would criminalize the possession of assets not linked to known legal income.

“Help me pass the Unexplained Wealth Bill. I’ve been begging for the past year. This same bill was thrown out in the last Assembly,” he said.
“If we don’t make individuals accountable for what they own, we’ll never get it right.”

He gave a striking example to illustrate the absurdity of current legal constraints:

“Someone has worked in a ministry for 20 years. We calculate their entire salary and allowances. Then we find five properties—two in Maitama, three in Asokoro. Yet we’re told to go and prove a predicate offence before we can act. That is absurd.”

The EFCC chairman also revealed that the Commission is tracking stolen Nigerian assets across the globe, including in the United States, Turkey, and even Iceland.

“Last month alone, I visited four or five countries chasing Nigeria’s stolen assets. An ambassador even told me they discovered an estate in Iceland owned by a Nigerian. Iceland of all places!” he exclaimed.

Despite these efforts, Olukoyede admitted that global cooperation in asset recovery is often limited.

“There is no amount of capacity I can build, no level of effort I can put in, that will enable me to recover even half of what has been stolen from Nigeria, because the custodians of those assets in foreign countries don’t want to let go. Under international law, the custodian of stolen assets is just as guilty as the original thief,” he noted.

He also condemned the culture of impunity in Nigeria, where indicted individuals are celebrated instead of held accountable.

“We see people who have stolen our money. We have shown you evidence. We’ve traced where the money went. We are already in court. Yet, they’re being celebrated all over the place. Does that show we’re serious?”

Olukoyede disclosed that over 700 federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) lack proper internal control systems and questioned whether the National Assembly could realistically audit them all.

“How many books can you check? How many files will you read? We need to build strong internal compliance systems that can proactively checkmate corruption.”

He warned that unless transparency and accountability become central to governance, Nigeria’s development will remain stunted.

“An internal EFCC analysis showed that 90 per cent of stolen public funds in one year were moved abroad. That money could have built hospitals, schools, and supported millions of Nigerian students from primary to tertiary level.”

Olukoyede urged unity across political and ethnic lines, warning that this administration may be Nigeria’s last opportunity to correct course.

“If we execute even 60 per cent of our capital budget efficiently between 2025 and 2026, we will empower small and medium-scale industries. We’ll build infrastructure. We’ll be fine.
What we need is transparency in revenue generation and accountability in public expenditure,” he emphasized.

He called on lawmakers and citizens to resist pressures from vested interests and digital detractors.

“This is about rescuing the soul of Nigeria,” Olukoyede concluded.

UK Introduces eVisas for Nigerians Applying for Study and Work Visas, Starting July 15

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July 10, 2025

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Once a visa decision is made, successful applicants will receive an email from UK Visas and Immigration with instructions to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa

UK Introduces eVisas for Nigerians Applying for Study and Work Visas, Starting July 15

ABUJA — The British High Commission has announced a major shift in visa processing for Nigerians applying to study or work in the United Kingdom. Beginning 15 July 2025, most successful applicants in these categories will receive a digital eVisa rather than the traditional visa sticker (vignette) in their passport.

According to a statement from the High Commission, the change is part of the UK government’s broader move toward a fully digital immigration system aimed at improving security, speed, and convenience.

“From 15 July 2025, most individuals applying to enter the UK on study or work-related visas will no longer receive a physical visa sticker (vignette) in their passport,” the statement read.
“Instead, successful applicants will be issued an eVisa, a secure, online record of their immigration status. This change marks a major step in the UK Government’s transition to a modern, digital immigration system.”

However, the new policy will apply only to applications submitted on or after 15 July 2025. Applicants who begin the process before this date will still need to leave their passports at a Visa Application Centre and will receive a physical vignette.

The Commission clarified that visit visa applicants and some dependants, including spouses and children of students or workers, will continue to receive physical visa stickers for the time being.

Despite the shift to digital, all applicants are still required to visit a Visa Application Centre to submit biometric data.

“Despite the removal of the vignette for study or work visas, all applicants must still attend a Visa Application Centre to provide their biometric information as part of the visa processing procedure,” the statement emphasized.

Once a visa decision is made, successful applicants will receive an email from UK Visas and Immigration with instructions to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa.

“Applicants will receive an email from UK Visas and Immigration with the outcome and instructions to create a UKVI account, to access their eVisa,” it added.

Gill Atkinson OBE, the Chargé d’Affaires at the British High Commission in Abuja, described the development as a major milestone in the UK’s immigration modernization journey.

“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 get a digital eVisa instead of a visa sticker in their passport,” she said.
“This is a further big step to a fully digital UK immigration system, making the process more secure, more efficient, and more convenient for students, professionals, and families.”

She also noted that while the digital rollout is significant, some categories remain under the current system, at least temporarily.

“However, if you’re applying as a dependant, like a spouse or child, of someone who is studying or working in the UK or if you are applying for a visitor visa, you’ll still receive a visa vignette sticker in your passport for the time being,” she added.

eVisas have already replaced Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) for individuals granted stay in the UK for more than six months. Holders of a UKVI account can now use the “View and Prove” service to digitally share their immigration status with landlords, employers, or educational institutions.

How to Obtain an eVisa:

Apply online via gov.uk
Visit a Visa Application Centre to submit biometrics
Keep your passport (if vignette is not required)
Follow UKVI instructions to create and link a digital account for eVisa access

The change represents a significant modernization in how Nigerian applicants access the UK, streamlining the process for thousands of students and professionals. Read More

Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo Urges Nigerian Students to Rise with Discipline, Lead with Emotional Intelligence

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Lukman Omikunle

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July 9, 2025

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Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo Urges Nigerian Students to Rise with Discipline, Lead with Emotional Intelligence

“The world may reward noise, but history remembers those who led with empathy, vision, and self-control” – Agemo-Okuboyejo

By Lukman Omikunle

Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo Urges Nigerian Students to Rise with Discipline, Lead with Emotional Intelligence

ILARO, OGUN STATE – July 9, 2025 — In an electrifying and soul-stirring keynote address that drew rounds of applause and standing ovations, Risk and Information Security expert, Engr. Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo, delivered a powerful message to hundreds of Nigerian students at the Youth Symposium themed “Career Resilience: Navigating The Future Of Work” held at the Raheem Oloyo Conference Hall (Glass House), Ilaro, Ogun State.

The event was organised by the Students’ Union of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro.

Addressing the theme with grace and gravitas, Agemo-Okuboyejo, represented by Mr Micheal Dada and Mr. Enitan Taiwo at the symposium, emphasized that beyond technical skills and qualifications, emotional intelligence is the true currency of leadership in today’s volatile world of work.

“Most people think youth strength lies only in physical vitality,” she began, quoting Proverbs 29:20. “But the real strength of young people lies in clarity under pressure, emotional control, and the ability to build lasting influence.”

In what she dubbed “The Silent Superpower,” the seasoned policy strategist underscored the value of emotional intelligence—describing it not as weakness, but as a form of controlled strength.

“The world may reward noise, but history remembers those who led with empathy, vision, and self-control,” she told the rapt audience. “Emotional intelligence makes people trust you, listen to you, and follow you—even when you have no formal title.”

She connected her insights to global icons such as J.P. Morgan, Andrew Carnegie, and John D. Rockefeller, noting how they wielded emotional mastery as a tool to shape modern capitalism—not just through ambition, but with restraint, foresight, and relationships.

Referencing the historic Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM) of 1934, Agemo-Okuboyejo provided a compelling comparison to modern youth potential, warning against repeating past mistakes.

“They didn’t have weapons. They had ideas and strategic organisation,” she said of the NYM. “But when ego replaced empathy, and tribalism drowned unity, the movement crumbled. That is the danger of leadership without emotional maturity.”

To the students in attendance—mostly undergraduates, recent graduates, and young entrepreneurs—she offered practical, actionable tools for success in a shifting career landscape.

“You may not sit at the big table yet. But you can control how you show up when you’re called. Show up with discipline. Show up with self-respect. Show up with emotional intelligence.”

She urged the youth to develop “strategic advantages” such as, self-awareness, empathy, self-regulation and relationship-building.

She stated further that, “These are not soft skills. These are survival skills,” she stressed. “Especially in a world where the loudest voices often lack the deepest impact”

The speech also culminated in a rousing message of hope when she pointed out that “This is your season to till the ground, sow seeds, and water your future. In time, your harvest will match your hustle. Don’t wait to be given power—rise into it.”

The event, organized by the Union’s Youth Committee, included a heated debate titled “Is Career Resilience More Important Than Relying on Innate Talent for Career Success?” Students described the day as “transformational.” During the event, Agemo-Okuboyejo awarded fifty thousand naira (N50,000) to the winner of the debate contest, Okwuchi Joy, and also donated two hundred thousand naira (N200,000) to the Students’ Union chapter of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro.

With her unique blend of corporate expertise and inspirational storytelling, Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo left no doubt that she is not only a force in boardrooms but a beacon to the next generation. Read More