August 3, 2025

Policy update

Policy update World

US Considers $1,000 Fee for Expedited Tourist Visa Interviews Amid Legal Concerns

Washington D.C. — The administration of former President Donald Trump reportedly contemplated introducing a $1,000 surcharge for tourists and other non-immigrant visa applicants seeking expedited interview appointments at US embassies and consulates. However, government lawyers have flagged potential legal challenges to the proposal, raising questions about its viability. The proposed fee aims to generate additional

Read More
Policy update Politics

Tinubu’s Reforms Commendable, But Must Enforce LG Autonomy to Secure Legacy – Showunmi

Otunba Segun Showunmi, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former governorship aspirant in Ogun State, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policy direction but insists the administration must now take decisive steps to enforce local government autonomy across the federation. Speaking to journalists in Abeokuta, Showunmi commended the Tinubu-led Federal Government for

Read More
Diplomatic Relations General Policy update

Federal Government Launches Enhanced 2025 Nigeria e-Visa Regime to Streamline Travel and Boost National Security

In a bold move aimed at modernising its immigration framework and bolstering both tourism and international business travel, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially introduced a revamped e-Visa system set to take effect in 2025. This digital transformation initiative, according to authorities, is tailored to simplify visa processing while reinforcing national security in line

Read More
General Hajj and Umrah Policy update

Hajj 1446: Saudi Traffic Department Bans Unauthorized Vehicles from Entering Holy Sites from 5th Dhu al-Hijjah

The Saudi Traffic Department has announced that, beginning from the 5th of Dhu al-Hijjah, unauthorized vehicles will be strictly prohibited from entering the holy sites of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah as part of intensified measures to ensure smooth traffic flow and maintain order during the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage. According to the department, this regulation is

Read More
General Policy update

US Tightens Social Media Checks on Student Visa Applicants: What You Need to Know

Starting June 1, 2025, international students applying for U.S. student visas will face stricter social media screening requirements, following new rules announced by the U.S. State Department. Under these updated guidelines, all applicants aged 14 and above must provide access to at least five of their most-used social media accounts, covering at least one year’s

Read More
Crime Fraud General Policy update

SCUML Engages Stakeholders Ahead of FATF Onsite Visit, Conducts Sector Sensitization

The Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering (SCUML) has intensified efforts to prepare stakeholders for the upcoming Financial Action Task Force (FATF) onsite evaluation through a series of engagement and sensitization activities across key sectors. In a recent round of meetings and workshops, SCUML brought together government agencies, financial institutions, and private sector representatives to

Read More
General Policy update

Lagos State Hosts Public Consultative Forum on Integrated Electricity Policy and Strategic Implementation Plan

The Lagos State Government has convened a Public Consultative Forum to engage stakeholders on the Lagos Integrated Electricity Policy, Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), and Strategic Implementation Plan. This initiative is part of the state’s commitment to achieving energy independence and enhancing electricity access for its residents. The forum, organized by the Ministry of Energy and

Read More
General Policy update

Minister Dangiwa Inaugurates New Board for Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has inaugurated the newly appointed board of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), marking a key milestone in the government’s efforts to boost affordable housing across the country. The inauguration ceremony took place on Monday, May 26, 2025, in Abuja, with the minister

Read More
Policy update Politics

Bill to Establish Agency for Management of Proceeds of Crime Scales Second Reading in Senate

ABUJA — The Senate has passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022, with the aim of creating a dedicated agency to oversee the administration of recovered assets in Nigeria. The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Idiat Adebule (APC, Lagos West), was debated during Tuesday’s

Read More
General Policy update Public Sector

SGF Approves Promotion of 18 New Assistant Corps Marshals to Strengthen FRSC Leadership

ABUJA — In a move aimed at enhancing the leadership structure of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has approved the promotion of 18 senior officers to the rank of Assistant Corps Marshal (ACM). The newly promoted officers are drawn from key departments

Read More