President Bola Tinubu is expected in Kano today (Friday) to pay a condolence visit to the government and people of the state, as well as the family of the late elder statesman, renowned businessman, and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Dantata. This was revealed in a statement issued on Thursday by the governor's spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa. The president's visit comes in the wake of the recent death of the respected industrialist.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed relevant federal agencies to address recent visa restrictions imposed on Nigerians by the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). His directive focuses on enhancing intergovernmental cooperation and improving systems that verify the identities of Nigerians seeking consular services abroad. These actions follow policy shifts by both countries. Last week, the U.S. reduced most non-immigrant visas issued to Nigerians from multi-entry, multi-year visas to single-entry, three-month permits. According to U.S. officials, the changes stem from "the current rate of visa overstays by Nigerian nationals" and the need for "better access to applicant record."
In remembrance of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, the federal government has proclaimed Tuesday a national holiday. According to a government statement, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, revealed this. "President Muhammadu Buhari served Nigeria with honor, integrity, and a steadfast dedication to the advancement and unity of our magnificent country." All Nigerians have the chance to consider his life, leadership, and the principles he espoused on this public holiday, the Minister stated.
The federal government has expressed concern over the recent decision by the United States to impose tighter visa restrictions on Nigerian citizens, describing the move as disproportionate and calling for a reconsideration in the spirit of mutual respect and cooperation. The US introduced significant changes to its non-immigrant visa rules for Nigeria, reducing both the validity period and entry frequency for most Nigerian travelers. Effective from July 8, the US Department of State announced that nearly all non-immigrant, non-diplomatic visas granted to Nigerian citizens will now be limited to single entry and valid for only three months.
Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (retd.), a former Chief of Army Staff, has advocated for mandatory military training for all Nigerians, starting with the National Youth Service Corps. He claimed that doing this would help the country remain united, disciplined, and resilient in the face of escalating social and security issues. At the Nigerian Defense Academy Regular Course 18 Alumni Association's 50th anniversary celebration in Abuja on Friday night, Ihejirika made the call.
According to the Federal Government, several financial institutions have expressed interest in helping to carry out important road projects, including the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway and the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. Sen. Dave Umahi, the Works Minister, revealed the revelation in a press conference following an examination of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and a few Lagos bridges.
