Spotlights
Tension mounts as Trump ‘ends visa service in Nigeria’
The ongoing clampdown by President Donald Trump’s administration in USA on undocumented immigrants does not seem to have whittled the resolve of many Nigerians desirous of a stay in the country, investigation has revealed.
According to The Nation, thousands of undocumented people have already been deported to their countries of origin as raids on illegal immigrants across the length and breadth of America continue.
The American television network, National Broadcasting Company (NBC), reported on Friday that Immigration and Customs agents are under increasing pressure to boost the number of arrests and deportations with respect of undocumented immigrants.
Quoting sources, it said President Donald Trump has expressed anger that the amount of people deported in the first weeks of his administration is not higher.
The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has listed 3,690 Nigerians said to be residing in the country for deportation.
Somalia with 4,090 illegal immigrants has the highest number among African countries.
The Nation investigation at the US Embassy, Abuja and the Consulate in Lagos over the last one week showed that not much has changed in the rush for American visa by some Nigerians.
It is almost business as usual as applicants invited for visa interview stream in for their appointments, although most of them said they had been booked for interview before Trump was sworn in for his second coming on January 20.
Some of them said they did not expect Trump to go this far with his threat to send undocumented immigrants away.
One of the respondents, who claimed to be successful in the visa interview in Lagos, said: “Oga, leave Trump alone with the deportation order.
“If America likes, they can send all immigrants packing.
“I am travelling soon.
“I have genuine documents and money to stay in the U.S.
“If they send me back, I still have my job to go back to.
“I am a certified professional engineer.”
A student, Adeola, who claimed to be travelling for a post-graduate programme, said he had paid a substantial part of his tuition and had nothing to fear.
Asked why he did not apply for the programme in a Nigerian university, he said: “One must think about the international visibility and opportunities one can benefit from an American university.
“Master and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes in Nigerian university may take a student seven years to complete, if not more, depending on university unions’ strikes and others.
“If one is serious, one can complete such programmes in four to five years maximum in the American university I’m going to attend.”
A couple, who spoke with The Nation at the visitors’ car park seeing photocopying some documents, said they were going to visit their children in the U.S.
They said there was no cause for them to entertain any fear if their applications were granted despite the news of deportation emanating from the U.S.
The situation is slightly different at the embassy in Abuja.
Business operators around the area said that traffic by visa applicants appeared to have reduced lately.
It was gathered that the interview dates of some applicants were recently rescheduled.
Some applicants also complained about their inability to access the visa drop box which was introduced in 2020 to allow eligible applicants renew their visas without an in-person interview.
There are fears that the provision may have been discarded.
The effect of the reversal is that all applicants will have to go through in-person interviews.
Officials at the Abuja Embassy and Lagos consulate did not respond to our reporters’ questions on the flow of visa applications since the return of Trump to the White House.
Apart from the NBC, the Washington Post reported that Trump is disappointed with the results of his mass deportation campaign.
“The Trump administration is now requiring ICE to make at least 1,800 arrests a day, setting a target of at least 75 arrests for each of the agency’s 25 offices,’’ the report said.
Since taking office, ICE has made thousands of arrests and conducted raids in several major U.S. cities, including New York, Denver, Chicago, Los Angeles and Boston.
The White House has reportedly called for even higher enforcement rates.
Trump said after his January 20 inauguration that he would make efforts to immediately stop irregular migrants from crossing the U.S. border and begin the process of extraditing millions.
He also stopped child birthright.
Trump also declared a nationwide state of emergency over the situation at the southern U.S. border.
He directed statutory law enforcement authority to identify and arrest aliens who may present threats to national security or public safety, or who otherwise undermine the integrity of U.S. immigration laws.
Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officers enforce immigration laws within the U.S. interior to preserve national security and public safety.
The figure of the Nigerians facing deportation is included in the “Noncitizens on the ICE Non-Detained Docket with Final Orders of Removal by Country of Citizenship”.
Many undocumented immigrants, including Nigerians, now live in fear of being picked up and deported. Some have gone into hiding while others are no longer going to work.
The situation is said to have sparked a sharp increase in the prices of groceries caused by a rise in the cost of production.
According to reports, as at November 24, 2024, there were 1,445,549 non-citizens on ICE’s non-detained docket with final removal orders. The data is broken down by nationality and number of people faced with deportation
According to a 2024 Migration Policy Institute (MPI) report, nearly 46.2 million immigrants live in the U.S.
The report’s statistics came from the U.S. Census Bureau (using its 2022 American Community Survey (ACS), 2023 Current Population Survey (CPS) and 2000 decennial census) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The latest data from the DHS showed that Mexicans account for 4.81 million in 2022, representing the largest unauthorised immigrant group.
After Mexico, the next largest illegal immigrant populations are from Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras.
Other countries on the top 10 list included the Philippines, Venezuela, Colombia, Brazil, India and China.
As of 2023, data from the United States Census Bureau showed that the population of Nigerians in the country was 604,077.
As part of deportation process, a foreign national may be held in a detention centre by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) before trial or deportation.
After a non-citizen is detained, they may appear before a judge in immigration court during the deportation process.
Excitement has erupted among many Nigerians as President Tinubu’s economic policies begin to deliver promising results.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has implemented stricter controls while maintaining a lower exchange rate at official windows.
However, the limited access and stringent allocation restrictions have compelled numerous importers, businesses, and students seeking to study abroad to resort to the parallel market.
Data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) showed that the naira rose to N1,506.08 to a dollar on Wednesday at the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM). The last time it was that strong was on the 5th of March, 2025, when it closed at N1,500.80/$.
The naira has continued to enjoy rare stability, driven by the various policies of the apex Bank, including maintaining a high interest rate, a move that has lured in foreign capital and made the currency firmer.
Nigeria’s naira has witnessed some turbulence years after the authorities relaxed currency controls, effectively floating the currency to be more determined by market forces. That saw the unit fall by over 70 percent and disrupted business plans of many firms in Africa’s most populous nation.
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But those eras of sharp swings are phasing out as the local currency is expected to continue its rally until the end of the year, with global investment bank JP Morgan forecasting the naira to close 2025 at N1,450 per dollar.
A potential rate cut by the United States Federal Reserve also bodes well for the naira’s long-term stability as global capital finds its way into emerging markets like Nigeria, further bolstering the calmness of the currency.
“A lower US interest rate would diminish the relative attractiveness of US assets, prompting global investors to seek higher returns in emerging markets like Nigeria. Consequently, Nigeria will likely experience increased portfolio inflows, particularly into the fixed-income market,” analysts at FBNQuest Merchant Bank wrote in a note recently.
“Renewed interest by offshore investors could potentially bolster foreign exchange reserves and support the stability of the Naira.”
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The Nigeria’s national grid has again collapsed with the total of 50 Mega Watts drop, according to the report that emerged after the incident.
A breakdown of the affected states indicted that the collapse, which happened around 12:25 pm on Wednesday, September 10, affected 11 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). ...click link for full list here
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Below is the states and the affected areas according to The Cable:
1. Abuja DisCo: 20 MW
2. Benin DisCo: 10 MW
3. Eko DisCo: 0 MW
4. Enugu DisCo: 0 MW
5. Ibadan DisCo: 20 MW
6. Ikeja DisCo: 0 MW
7. Jos DisCo: 0 MW
8. Kaduna DisCo: 0 MW
9. Kano DisCo: 0 MW
10. PHarcourt DisCo: 0 MW
11. Yola DisCo: 0 MW
Total: 50 MW
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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has commended the South-South states for their immense contributions to Nigeria’s growth and stability, describing the region as a critical pillar of the nation’s economic and social development.
Speaking on Sunday at the 2025 Passover Conference and dedication of the children of Apostle Charles Osazuwa, Founder of Rock of Ages Christian Assembly International, in Benin City, Edo State, the Governor stressed that the South-South remained central to Nigeria’s prosperity, given its oil and gas wealth, agricultural resources, and human capital.
Oborevwori maintained that a stronger collaboration with the Federal Government was essential to closing the development gaps and ensure that the region fully benefits from its natural endowments.
He also underscored the need for unity among South-South states in engaging the Federal Government on key issues of infrastructure, environmental protection, and economic diversification.
“A united South-South voice will not only fast-track development but also strengthen security and promote inclusive growth across our region,” the Governor said.
On the occasion, which he described as both spiritual and instructive, Oborevwori emphasized the value of thanksgiving and faith.
“Whenever God does something, it is only right that we appreciate Him. Today, we have not only witnessed the dedication, but we have also received a powerful message, one that has truly blessed us. I took notes myself because there was so much to take home,” he added.
The Governor highlighted the cultural, spiritual, and historical bond between Delta, Edo, and Bayelsa states, describing them as “one people with the same roots and destiny.”
He noted that the unity of the three states was reflected in their collective achievements, citing their strong outings at recent national sporting events as evidence of shared progress.
“At the National Youth Games, Delta came second and Edo came third. In Ogun State, Delta took first while Bayelsa came second. Whenever one of us shines, we all shine. That is the strength of our brotherhood,” he remarked.
Oborevwori also commended Apostle Osazuwa and his ministry for their integrity and commitment to the gospel, praying that the church would continue to grow in strength and impact.
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, assured that his administration remained committed to promoting Christianity through good governance.
Similarly, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, congratulated Apostle Osazuwa on the dedication of his triplets, describing him as a genuine man of God who preaches with ease and conviction.
In his remarks, Apostle Osazuwa urged Governors Monday Okpebholo and Sheriff Oborevwori to leverage their offices to press the Federal Government for the urgent rehabilitation of the dilapidated Benin–Sapele Road, lamenting the severe hardships it continues to inflict on motorists.
Earlier, in a sermon titled “Understanding the Power of Effective Prayer,” Apostle Osazuwa stressed the potency of prayer as a vital tool for believers to effect change, overcome afflictions, and engage in spiritual warfare.
He described prayer as a two-way communication between man and God, noting its mystery and transformative power.
The event attracted dignitaries, including immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; the Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu; Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu; alongside worshippers and well-wishers who joined the Osazuwa family in thanksgiving.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared Olasijibomi Suji Ogundele, founder of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, wanted for allegedly diverting funds and engaging in money laundering.
The declaration was contained in a notice issued by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, and circulated to the public via its official X account.
According to the Commission, Ogundele is wanted in connection with an alleged case of diversion of funds and money laundering being investigated by its Lagos Command
“The public is hereby notified that OLASIJIBOMI SUJI OGUNDELE of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, whose photograph appears above, is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in an alleged case of Diversion of Funds and Money Laundering,” the commission stated.
Public appeal for information
The EFCC urged members of the public with useful information on his whereabouts to contact its offices across the country.
The notice described him as a 44-year-old indigene of Ori-Ade Local Government Area of Osun State. His last known address was listed as G29, Banana Island, Ikoyi, Lagos State.
“Anybody with useful information as to his whereabouts should please contact the Commission in its Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Lagos, Gombe, Port Harcourt or Abuja offices or through 08093322644; its e-mail address: info@efcc.gov.ng or the nearest Police Station and other security agencies,” the notice read.
The controversies surrounding Olasijibomi Suji Ogundele, the founder of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, did not just begin.
In October 2024, he was under police investigation following allegations of a $325,000 real estate fraud. According to reports, a client had paid the sum for a three-bedroom apartment in the Leonardo project in Banana Island, Lagos, but neither received the property nor a refund.
The Police Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) invited Ogundele for questioning, but he initially failed to respond, opting instead to file a fundamental rights suit to restrain the investigation.
He later appeared at the FCID headquarters in Abuja after further pressure from investigators and was interrogated before being released on bail.
Following his release, Ogundele issued a response, denying any fraudulent activity. He explained that the delays in delivering the project were caused by external economic factors, specifically inflation, rising construction material costs, and the volatility of foreign exchange.
He stated that he had arrived at the FCID with a trove of evidence, including title documents of the Leonardo project, approvals from Lagos State, and other paperwork, which he claimed demonstrated transparency and a genuine commitment to fulfilling obligations to clients.
The Federal Government of Nigeria is in the process of obtaining new financing from the World Bank amounting to $1.75 billion, despite recent announcements of a significant increase in national revenues.
President Bola Tinubu stated on Tuesday that Nigeria has already exceeded its revenue targets for 2025.
In a follow-up clarification, the Presidency revealed that Nigeria collected N20.59 trillion between January and August 2025, reflecting a 40.5% increase compared to the N14.6 trillion accrued in the same period the previous year.
According to Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, this revenue surge has been largely driven by non-oil sources, which now represent 75% of the government’s total revenue.
Nevertheless, officials indicated that borrowing would persist to address funding gaps in essential sectors.
Documentation from the World Bank suggests that approval for the $1.75 billion in new loans for Nigeria is anticipated before the end of the year. These funds will be allocated to projects in agriculture, health, digital infrastructure, and financing for small businesses.
Key initiatives earmarked for support include a $500 million project aimed at enhancing agricultural value chains to improve farm productivity and promote rural development.
Additionally, there is a $500 million digital infrastructure program intended to expand connectivity and foster technology-led growth, a $250 million health security project, and a $500 million initiative focused on providing inclusive financing for micro, small, and medium enterprises.
The loans are currently undergoing various stages of review and negotiation, indicating that Nigeria continues to rely on external borrowing to meet its financial needs. According to World Bank data, the country has secured a total of $8.4 billion in new credit lines over the past two years.
President Bola Tinubu has asserted that the policies and initiatives of his administration are fundamentally anchored in the solemn oath of office he took, which obligates him to serve the interests of all Nigerians.
In a statement shared on his X handle on Monday, he emphasized that this oath serves as a guiding principle for the various infrastructural projects his government is undertaking, including the construction of bridges, roads, railways, and advancements in the power and healthcare sectors.
His remarks came in response to mounting criticisms regarding perceived imbalances in the distribution of projects and allegations of regional neglect.
Tinubu contended that his administration is committed to implementing policies and delivering projects that are intended to benefit all citizens, irrespective of their region, religion, or ethnic background.
“I took an oath to serve all Nigerians, not a section. That oath guides every bridge, road, rail, power, and health project we deliver,” the post reads.
“From the Lagos–Calabar Highway in the South to the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway in the North; from Port Harcourt–Maiduguri rail in the East to Abuja–Kaduna–Kano expressway in the Centre, and the Trans-Saharan highway connecting African countries, these are not local trophies. They are our national assets.”
Tinubu said health centres are being rehabilitated nationwide, and light rail projects in Kano, Kaduna, Lagos, and Ogun have been given the green light.
“250,000 jobs are being created, power is returning to Kaduna through the revived 255MW power plant, bridges in Onitsha and Bonny reconnect our people, oil exploration is expanding in Bauchi and Gombe, and the AKK pipeline has crossed the Niger,” he said.
“Every farmer who needs a road, every trader who needs power, every child who needs a school, every patient who needs care… this is who we are building for.”
The president noted that the “equity of renewed hope” ensures no Nigerian is second class and no region is left behind.
“Together we will rise as one nation, one people, and one destiny. Bet on Nigeria,” he added.
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