Home Blog Page 194

EFCC Arraigns Port Harcourt Doctor for Alleged N39m Visa Scam

newsheadline247
-
0
EFCC Arraigns Port Harcourt Doctor for Alleged N39m Visa Scam

The accused allegedly received N39.1 million from Judge Toojah Iyieagbu, Managing Director of Riskout Consults, between 8 April and 12 December 2023

EFCC Arraigns Port Harcourt Doctor for Alleged N39m Visa Scam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned a Port Harcourt-based medical doctor, Dr. Nekabari Nathan, for allegedly defrauding a client of over N39 million under the guise of facilitating international travel visas and employment.

Dr. Nathan was brought before Justice Pat Ajoku of the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday, alongside his company, Global Horizons Academy Ltd.

The EFCC charged the defendants with one count of obtaining money under false pretence, in violation of Section 1(1)(a) and punishable under Section 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act.

According to a statement released by EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, the accused allegedly received N39.1 million from Judge Toojah Iyieagbu, Managing Director of Riskout Consults, between 8 April and 12 December 2023.

The funds were purportedly meant to secure travel visas and job placements in Canada, Ireland, and the United States for several individuals, but the promises were never fulfilled.

Dr. Nathan, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge during his arraignment.

Following his plea, prosecuting counsel A. Abubakar requested the court to remand the defendant in custody and schedule a date for the commencement of trial.

On the other hand, defence counsel Friday Otanjah appealed to the court to grant his client bail, citing medical reasons.

Justice Ajoku is expected to rule on the bail application and set a trial date in due course.

The EFCC reiterated its commitment to holding individuals accountable for fraudulent schemes, especially those that exploit citizens seeking legitimate opportunities abroad. Read More

2027: Opposition Coalition Names Zonal Leaders as David Mark, Aregbesola Take Commanding Roles

newsheadline247
-
0
2027: Opposition Coalition Names Zonal Leaders as David Mark, Aregbesola Take Commanding Roles

Internal deliberations are reportedly still ongoing over whether the coalition will adopt an existing political party or proceed to register a new one to contest the elections

2027: Opposition Coalition Names Zonal Leaders as David Mark, Aregbesola Take Commanding Roles

As momentum builds ahead of the 2027 general elections, Nigeria’s leading opposition coalition has begun strengthening its nationwide political infrastructure by appointing high-profile leaders to head zonal operations across the country.

Sources close to the coalition revealed that the movement has tapped seasoned political heavyweights—including former Senate President David Mark and former Osun State Governor and ex-Minister of Interior Rauf Aregbesola—to anchor its strategic positioning in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

“This is not just a symbolic move; it’s a calculated step to ensure grassroots mobilization and national cohesion,” a source familiar with the internal workings of the group disclosed.
“These are tested leaders with deep networks in their respective regions. Their appointment sends a strong message that the coalition is serious about 2027.”

The coalition, which comprises prominent opposition figures, civil society leaders, and youth-led advocacy groups, is expected to unveil its political platform next week—a long-awaited announcement that could redefine Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the next general election.

Internal deliberations are reportedly still ongoing over whether the coalition will adopt an existing political party or proceed to register a new one to contest the elections. However, insiders say a final decision is imminent.

“We’re at the final stage. The party platform will be unveiled very soon,” the source added. “What’s more important now is that the coalition has started moving beyond talk—this is a tactical deployment of leadership to build real structures across the zones.”

While the identities of all the newly appointed zonal coordinators are yet to be officially disclosed, David Mark is expected to lead affairs in the North-Central, while Rauf Aregbesola is reportedly in line to coordinate the Southwest zone.

Political observers see the involvement of such high-level figures as a signal that the coalition intends to present a serious challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and other dominant forces in 2027.

Ex-Senate President David Mark

A political analyst commenting on the development said: “With David Mark and Aregbesola involved, it’s no longer a fringe movement. This is shaping up to be a major opposition force with capacity, credibility, and national reach.”

Former Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola

The coalition’s strategic rollout comes amid growing dissatisfaction across various segments of the population over economic hardship, insecurity, and governance gaps. Many see the group’s emergence as a potential alternative capable of reshaping the nation’s political trajectory.

As Nigerians turn their gaze toward 2027, the coalition’s next moves—especially the unveiling of its platform and full leadership structure—are expected to dominate the political conversation in the coming weeks. Read More

Lost Across Borders… 250,000 Nigerians Living as Refugees Worldwide

newsheadline247
-
0
Lost Across Borders… 250,000 Nigerians Living as Refugees Worldwide

While Nigeria currently hosts around 135,000 refugees, a significantly larger number of Nigerian nationals are displaced across borders

Lost Across Borders… 250,000 Nigerians Living as Refugees Worldwide

As the world marks the 2025 World Refugee Day, the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) has disclosed that more than 250,000 Nigerians are currently living as refugees in various countries, including Cameroon, Libya, South Sudan, Chad, and Niger.

The Federal Commissioner of the Commission, Tijani Ahmed, revealed the figures during a commemorative road walk in Abuja on Thursday. He noted that while Nigeria currently hosts around 135,000 refugees, a significantly larger number of Nigerian nationals are displaced across borders.

“We have a lot of refugees in Nigeria and outside Nigeria. In Nigeria today, we are hosting no less than 135,000 refugees,” Ahmed stated.

“We also have no less than 250,000 Nigerian refugees living in other parts of the world. Particularly, we have no less than 125,000 Nigerians living in Cameroon. We also have Nigerians in Chad, Niger, South Sudan, Libya, and other parts of the world.”

He further affirmed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains committed to addressing issues affecting refugees, migrants, and internally displaced persons (IDPs), stressing the government’s willingness to ramp up support through the Commission.

“President Bola Tinubu has been supporting and is willing to offer more support to the commission to assist migrants, refugees, and IDPs,” he said.

Addressing concerns over a possible deportation of Nigerian migrants from the United States, Ahmed said the Federal Government is proactively preparing for such an eventuality.

“As far as we are concerned, it is a policy statement. However, Nigeria has been very proactive, and we have constituted a committee to look into it in case it becomes a reality. We are ready to receive our people and provide them with the kind of livelihood and support they deserve,” he assured. “The Nigerian government is ready for that. The Nigerian government has already constituted a committee and is awaiting any action that might come from the U.S. So, there is no cause for alarm.”

Also speaking at the event, Alozie Godfrey, Senior Humanitarian Officer at the ECOWAS Commission, emphasized the regional body’s continued support for displaced persons in West Africa. He disclosed that ECOWAS disbursed $9 million in humanitarian support across its 15 member states last year, with Nigeria receiving $1.7 million of the allocation.

“Last year, we basically assisted refugees in all ECOWAS 15 member states, and all their persons of concern, to the tune of about $9 million. The government of Nigeria got about $1.7 million of this money,” Godfrey said.
“This year, we are also working to assist refugees and internally displaced persons all around West Africa, and particularly in Nigeria, where we have our headquarters, to make sure that refugees are given the rights they are supposed to get, and make sure that we also assist them.”

He affirmed ECOWAS’s dedication to supporting vulnerable populations, despite budgetary limitations:
“ECOWAS Commission remains concerned with issues of refugees, and we will continue to work hand in glove with our partners to make sure that we assist them to the best of our ability, given the lean resources that we have.” Read More

Ogun 2027: GNI’s Camp Gains Momentum as Guber Tussle With Sen. Yayi Heats Up in Ogun West

newsheadline247
-
0
Ogun 2027: GNI’s Camp Gains Momentum as Guber Tussle With Sen. Yayi Heats Up in Ogun West

By Staff Writer

This sudden surge in activity is closely tied to intensifying political engagements between GNI’s camp and loyalists of Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi

Ogun 2027: GNI’s Camp Gains Momentum as Guber Tussle With Sen. Yayi Heats Up in Ogun West

The political landscape in Ogun West is stirring as supporters of Hon. Gboyega Nasir Isiaka (GNI), the Federal House of Representatives member for Yewa North/Imeko-Afon, are increasingly visible across the State — sparking renewed interest and speculation about his 2027 gubernatorial ambition.

This sudden surge in activity is closely tied to intensifying political engagements between GNI’s camp and loyalists of Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi. Both politicians hail from Yewa, a region in Ogun West that has long yearned for a shot at the governorship — a dream unfulfilled since Ogun State’s creation in 1976.

While GNI is no stranger to the gubernatorial race — having contested in 2011, 2015, and 2019 — it is Yayi, currently representing Ogun West in the Senate and making his first gubernatorial bid, who has so far led the pack in political visibility and momentum.

Senator Solomon Adeola Yayi

Senator Adeola has launched an aggressive, statewide campaign, commissioning projects and building political goodwill across all the three senatorial districts — with a particular emphasis on Ogun West. His robust grassroots engagement has helped solidify his image as the frontrunner in the race for 2027.

However, insiders say GNI’s recent political resurgence is being driven by tactical moves from his supporters, many of whom have been engaging Yayi’s camp in subtle but persistent rivalry — thereby bringing more attention to GNI’s ambitions.

Gboyega Nasiru Isiaka

Though GNI has adopted a quieter, more reserved political style in contrast to Yayi’s high-energy campaign, his name is now echoing more loudly in political circles, thanks in part to clashes and confrontations between both camps. Political observers say these interactions have given GNI’s team an unexpected media boost, placing them back in public discourse.

At the core of the growing rift is the burning question: Who among the two political giants is more entitled — by track record or historic loyalty — to finally deliver a Yewa governor for Ogun State?

Both contenders are vying for the 2027 ticket under the banner of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), setting the stage for a potentially fierce intra-party battle that could shape the political destiny of Ogun West — and by extension, the entire state.

As the countdown to 2027 begins, Ogun’s political watchers are paying close attention — and the race, it seems, is only just getting started. Read More

Sen. Natasha Arraigned for Alleged Defamation of Akpabio, Yahaya Bello—Gets N50m Bail

newsheadline247
-
0
Sen. Natasha Arraigned for Alleged Defamation of Akpabio, Yahaya Bello—Gets N50m Bail

The government specifically alleged she knew her statements would harm the reputation of Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio

Sen. Natasha Arraigned for Alleged Defamation of Akpabio, Yahaya Bello—Gets N50m Bail

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was on Thursday arraigned by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) on charges of allegedly making defamatory statements against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

Ex-Governor Yahaya Bello

The charges, which stem from comments made during a television interview and a private conversation, accuse the lawmaker of intending to harm the reputation of the two political figures.

According to the AGF, Akpoti-Uduaghan was charged with three counts of alleged defamation, based on her “making imputation knowing or having reason to believe that such imputation will harm the reputation of a person,” contrary to Section 391 of the Penal Code Law, and punishable under Section 392.

One part of the charge reads:

“Making imputation knowing or having reason to believe that such imputation will harm the reputation of a person contrary to Section 391 of the Penal Code Law, Cap 89 Laws of the Federation, 1990, and punishable under Section 392 of the same Law.”

The government specifically alleged she knew her statements would harm the reputation of Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON.

Appearing before Justice Chizoba Oji at the FCT High Court, Akpoti-Uduaghan pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Prosecuting counsel, David Kaswe, requested that the senator be remanded in custody pending the hearing of her bail application. However, her lawyer, Prof. Roland Otaru (SAN), immediately applied for bail, urging the court to consider her constitutional right to presumption of innocence.

Otaru argued that his client posed no flight risk and would not interfere with investigations or witnesses, citing the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, which encourages the granting of bail for non-capital offences.

The prosecution objected, claiming the defendant had been evasive and that the process of serving her the charge had been difficult.

In her ruling, Justice Oji emphasized that the offence was not capital in nature and reaffirmed the constitutional presumption of innocence.

She granted Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan bail in the sum of N50 million with one surety in the same amount. The surety must own landed property within the jurisdiction of the court.

The case was adjourned to September 23 for the commencement of trial.

This is not the first legal battle the senator is facing over defamation-related allegations. A separate six-count cybercrime charge filed by the AGF against Akpoti-Uduaghan is scheduled for arraignment on June 30. That case also involves alleged defamatory remarks directed at the Senate President, and the court had previously directed that she be served through her legal counsel.

As both matters proceed, the spotlight remains on the growing legal confrontations between Nigerian public figures and the state over reputation and speech.

Alleged Mambilla Project Fraud: EFCC Wants to Tarnish My Name – Ex-Minister Agunloye Tells Court

newsheadline247
-
0
Alleged Mambilla Project Fraud: EFCC Wants to Tarnish My Name – Ex-Minister Agunloye Tells Court

“The EFCC is dragging my integrity into murky waters by charging me with corruption and fraud through a post published on its official website” – Agunloye

Alleged Mambilla Project Fraud: EFCC Wants to Tarnish My Name – Ex-Minister Agunloye Tells Court

Former Minister of Power and Steel, Dr. Olu Agunloye, has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of damaging his reputation over allegations linked to the controversial $6 billion Mambilla Power Project.

Dr. Agunloye made the claim on Thursday while being cross-examined at the Federal High Court in Abuja by EFCC’s counsel, Wahab Shittu (SAN), in a defamation lawsuit he filed against the anti-graft agency. The suit, marked FCT/HC/CV/1199/2024, is being heard by Justice Peter Kekemeke of the FCT High Court.

The former minister, who is simultaneously facing criminal charges filed by the EFCC before a separate court presided over by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie, insisted the commission’s public statements have caused severe harm to his character.

“The EFCC is dragging my integrity into murky waters by charging me with corruption and fraud through a post published on its official website,” he told the court.

Agunloye also took issue with media coverage of the matter, citing headlines such as “EFCC arraigns Agunloye over $6billion fraud”, which he claimed further amplified the reputational damage.

Represented by his counsel, Adeola Adedipe (SAN), the former minister is seeking a court order directing the EFCC to retract the alleged defamatory publication and issue an unreserved public apology. He is also asking for N1 billion in general and exemplary damages.

The defamation suit is distinct from the EFCC’s ongoing criminal case, where Agunloye is being prosecuted in connection with alleged irregularities surrounding the Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project contract during his tenure.

The case continues as both legal battles unfold in parallel before separate judges within the Federal Capital Territory’s judiciary. Read More

Ondo Police Nab Two Suspected Drug Traffickers, Recover 50 Bags of Indian Hemp in Major Bust

Lukman Omikunle
-
0
Ondo Police Nab Two Suspected Drug Traffickers, Recover 50 Bags of Indian Hemp in Major Bust

The suspects were promptly arrested, and the illicit substances have been recovered and secured as evidence

By Lukman Omikunle

Ondo Police Nab Two Suspected Drug Traffickers, Recover 50 Bags of Indian Hemp in Major Bust

In a significant breakthrough in the fight against illegal drug trafficking, the Ondo State Police Command has arrested two suspected drug peddlers and recovered 51 bags of Indian hemp during a targeted operation in Owo.

The arrest, carried out by the Tactical Intelligence Response Squad (TIRS) of the Command on Wednesday, June 19, 2025, followed actionable intelligence on the movement of illicit substances through the state.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, the suspects—Usman Bashir, 27, and Usman Muhammad, 17—both from Kaduna State, were intercepted along the Ikare Junction in Owo while allegedly transporting 51 bags of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp. Each bag reportedly weighs about 9kg.

“The suspects were promptly arrested, and the illicit substances have been recovered and secured as evidence,” DSP Olushola confirmed in a statement made available to Newsheadline247. “They are currently in custody while investigations are ongoing to uncover the broader network behind this trafficking.”

The operation aligns with the renewed directive by the Inspector-General of Police and the Ondo State Commissioner of Police to clamp down on drug traffickers and criminal financiers who fuel cult-related violence and organized crime.

Commending the operatives for their swift and professional execution, the Commissioner of Police reiterated the Command’s commitment to keeping Ondo State safe from all forms of criminality.

“We are sending a strong message to all criminal elements: Ondo State is not a safe haven for drug traffickers or sponsors of violence,” the Commissioner stated.

The Command assured the public that further updates will be provided as investigations into the drug network continue. Read More

Benue Massacre: President Tinubu Is Taking Action, Says Senator Yari

newsheadline247
-
0
Benue Massacre: President Tinubu Is Taking Action, Says Senator Yari

“The president is capable of containing the situation and even if it means adopting totally extreme strategies to give every part of the nation peace”

Benue Massacre: President Tinubu Is Taking Action, Says Senator Yari

Condemns act, seeks whole-of-society cooperation against insecurity

The Senator for Zamfara West, Alhaji Abdul-Aziz Abubakar Yari, has told the people of Benue State and Nigeria in general that President Bola Tinubu was not the type of leader given to empty threats and therefore expressed confidence that he would go after those behind the recent killings in Yelewata, Benue, and bring them to book.

Yari, the Senate Committee Chairman on Water Resources, while condemning what he described as “gruesome murder of the innocent and harmless” also sought what he identified as “the whole-of-society” approach to combating insecurity.

Addressing the Benue massacre, a development he further described as devastating, Yari said the president has not only shown responsible and responsive leadership by identifying with the people of Benue and also visiting the state, the Wednesday “on-the-spot actions” that he took were marks of a hands-on leader.”

According to the former governor of Zamfara State, “The president is capable of containing the situation and even if it means adopting totally extreme strategies to give every part of the nation peace, he would do it, because he was elected to secure the nation and the people and this much he understands.”

Yari further explained that, “His (Tinubu’s) decision to suspend everything he was doing and to also keep others on hold are worthy of note. If we understood the responsibilities associated with the office of the president, we would see the empathy in his decision to personally visit Benue.

“He could have delegated a high-powered team to visit and stand in for him while he’d go on with his other commitments. But he decided to show leadership and identify with the people, who showed him love through their votes and also believed in his person and leadership.

“I can assure the people of Benue and Nigeria in general that those behind this dastardly act will not get away with their mindlessness. Those in charge of security also know the implication of not living up to billing, so no one is kidding here. 

“The criminals will be apprehended sooner than we all can ever imagine. The president doesn’t issue an empty threat. He meant what he said and said what he meant. They will not get away with this, and whatever their motive was, we will also unravel soon. But, ultimately, this madness has to stop, and it will stop.”

Yari, however, appealed to the people to also see the security of the society as their business and responsibility.

“Together, we can all confront this menace and decimate it. We need the whole-of-society approach to be able to defeat this monster and common enemy. This is the time we all must put on our intelligence garb. 

“Everybody – every citizen – must become an intelligence officer for the sake of the sanity of the society. We all must pay attention to happenings around us and give timely and pivotal information to relevant authorities to be able to nip the menace in good time.”

He, therefore, commiserated with the people and government of Benue State; the families who lost their loved ones in the killings and as well prayed for those still recuperating in the various hospitals across the state, saying the Almighty Allah would perfect their healing. Read More

Aliko Dangote Foundation Distributes 40,000 bags of rice to People Living with Disabilities, vulnerable in Ogun, Others

newsheadline247
-
0
Aliko Dangote Foundation Distributes 40,000 bags of rice to People Living with Disabilities, vulnerable in Ogun, Others

The Foundation initiated the food intervention programme to help contribute to the federal government efforts for food security

Aliko Dangote Foundation Distributes 40,000 bags of rice to People Living with Disabilities, vulnerable in Ogun, Others

In furtherance of its National Food Intervention programme, the Aliko Dangote Foundation has commenced the distribution of 40,000 bags of rice in all the 20 local government areas in Ogun State government, with priority to People Living with disabilities and other vulnerable in the State.

Speaking during the flag-off of the distribution of the 10kg bags of rice to the people of the State in Abeokuta, Governor Dapo Abiodun commended the Foundation saying the donation of the gift items to the state indigenes was in tandem with his government’s efforts aimed at providing succor to the people during this trying period.

The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi at the flag-off ceremony held at the Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, expressed satisfaction that the Foundation has been partnering with the state in various sectors, including health, empowerment, and security.

Governor Abiodun recalled the crucial roles played by the ADF during the Covid-19 Pandemic to reduce the effect of the disease by providing critical infrastructures. He added that the Foundation has also been of tremendous support to the Ogun State security architecture with patrol vans, among other contributions.

“When corporate organizations engage in initiatives like this, we should highlight them so that others can learn from it. Not everything is about coming, making money, and leaving. This is a gesture that should be replicated by every corporate entity because you have to empathize with the people, and I think what the Dangote Foundation has done is to consistently prioritize care for people,” he said.

Governor Abiodun cautioned against the sale of the food items, stating that anyone caught selling them would face consequences and that state will monitor the distribution to be sure those are mean to get them actually get them.

“To our market women, don’t say that someone brought it to you and you are now selling it. The rice is meant to be given to the people free of charge; it is for empowerment,” he warned

Earlier in her address of welcome, Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Mrs. Funmi Efuape, acknowledged the support the Dangote Foundation has given to the state government and the various Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives it has undertaken for its host communities.

The Head of Operations, Aliko Dangote Foundation, Mr. Victor Edero, in his goodwill message, said the Foundation initiated the food intervention programme to help contribute to the federal government efforts for food security so that Nigerians especially the vulnerable have access to the most staple food, rice at this period of global economic downturn.

He explained that ADF, focuses on three core areas: health, empowerment, and nutrition and has partnered governments at all levels to provide a lift in all the sectors

The National Food Intervention initiative, according to him is borne out of the current economic situation where people find it difficult to make ends meet, adding that the foundation is partnering with the state government to bring succor to the less privileged in society, calling for equitable distribution to all beneficiaries.

The Iyaloja General of Ogun State, Mrs. Yemisi Abbas, appreciated the Dangote Group for always identifying with the people, while appealing to the Foundation it to initiate a loan scheme as a form of empowerment to eradicate poverty in the state.

Representatives of People Living with Disabilities, the Trade Council, and the Youth Council, one after another, thanked Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his magnanimity and also lauded the state government for always seeking ways to mitigate the people’s suffering, stating that the collaboration with Dangote is an indication that the government and the private sector can work together for the good of the people.

At the occasion, representatives of People Living with Disabilities, Widows, Trade Council, Youth Council, Market women, Artisans and other women’s groups, were given bags of rice for onward distribution to their members. Read More

US Resumes Student Visas, Requires Social Media Access from Applicants

Lukman Omikunle
-
0
US Resumes Student Visas, Requires Social Media Access from Applicants

The announcement brings mixed feelings for thousands of prospective students globally—especially in Nigeria

US Resumes Student Visas, Requires Social Media Access from Applicants

The United States has officially resumed processing student visas for international applicants—but with a new requirement that’s raising eyebrows: access to personal social media accounts.

In a notice issued Wednesday, the U.S. State Department announced the lifting of a temporary suspension—imposed in May—on student visa applications. However, it introduced a new stipulation requiring applicants to grant access to their social media profiles for government scrutiny.

Consular officers will now review posts and messages to flag content deemed hostile to the U.S. government, its values, institutions, or culture. Refusal to provide access could result in visa denial, as officials view it as a possible red flag for concealment of online activity.

The decision follows the Trump administration’s push to tighten immigration screening procedures. Last month, the administration paused new interview appointments to allow for the integration of the expanded social media checks.

The announcement brings mixed feelings for thousands of prospective students globally—especially in Nigeria, where many have eagerly awaited a return to normal visa operations ahead of the new academic session.

Relief Among Nigerian Students

Samuel Johnson, a Nigerian Ph.D. student at Florida State University, expressed relief after facing rejection due to the suspension.

“I was traumatized after my rejection at the U.S. embassy over the F1 visa suspension, but now I feel relieved that the ban has been lifted. I can finally return to complete my education,” he said.

Ahmed Ambali, who was admitted to Texas University, shared similar frustration.

“I’ve been trying to book an appointment since May, but the site wouldn’t open. I already paid the $185 visa fee, but it didn’t reflect on the system, and I couldn’t secure an appointment. I haven’t received a refund, but I believe things will be resolved now that the suspension has been lifted,” he said.

Tighter Global Vetting Measures Looming

Beyond visa resumption, the U.S. is also increasing pressure on foreign governments. In a diplomatic cable sent over the weekend, the Trump administration warned 36 countries—including Nigeria—to upgrade traveler vetting procedures within 60 days or risk inclusion on the U.S. travel ban list.

Currently, the ban affects 12 countries including Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia, and Libya. New restrictions have also been placed on nations like Cuba, Laos, Togo, and Venezuela for failing to meet U.S. immigration and security standards.

Critics argue that the growing list, which heavily impacts African and Middle Eastern countries, reflects a broader shift in U.S. immigration policy under the guise of national security.

For now, students worldwide can once again apply to pursue their studies in the United States—but only if they’re willing to let immigration officers scroll through their social feeds. Read More

1...193194195...1,731Page 194 of 1,731