FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OF NIGERIA Archives

403 Stranded Nigerians Return from Niger Republic

In a major effort to assist citizens stranded abroad, 403 Nigerians, including 165 men, 56 women, and 182 children, have been successfully brought back from Niger Republic. Their return, coordinated by the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), marks the second wave of repatriations from Niger within a week. The operation involved collaboration between the Nigerian Mission in Niamey and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Earlier in the week, 310 Nigerians were also repatriated, bringing the total to 713 within seven days. ALSO READ: NDLEA Nabs Businessman, Olisaka Chibuzor Calistus With 6kg of Cocain The government has assured the returnees of reintegration support through initiatives linked to the Renewed Hope Agenda. Officials commended the joint efforts of agencies that made the repatriation process smooth and emphasized the importance of such partnerships in addressing migration issues.

Edo LG Chairmen Suspension Declared Invalid by AGF

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, has described the suspension of Local Government Chairmen and Vice Chairmen in Edo State as unconstitutional. The controversy began when the Edo State House of Assembly suspended council leaders from all 18 local governments for two months. The suspension was based on allegations of gross misconduct and insubordination. Governor Monday Okpebholo reinforced the decision by directing the officials to hand over to their legislative leaders, citing their failure to submit financial reports dating back to September 2022. READ ALSO: Ex-President Buhari Denies FCT Minister Wike’s Revocation Of Land In Abuja, Disowns Trust Foundation In defiance, the suspended officials have vowed to remain in office until their terms end in 2026. According to Fagbemi, the suspensions violate the Supreme Court’s July 2024 ruling, which safeguards the autonomy of local government councils and restricts state interference. The AGF clarified that disciplining local government leaders is solely the responsibility of their legislative houses, emphasizing that governors lack the authority to remove elected council officials. This development has reignited discussions about the separation of powers between state and local governments, with implications for governance across Nigeria’s 774 local councils.

Tinubu Unveils 2025 Budget

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has presented the 2025 budget proposal to the National Assembly, marking a pivotal step in his administration’s efforts to stabilize and transform Nigeria’s economy. Dubbed “The Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity,” the plan lays out strategic investments to tackle economic challenges and rebuild critical sectors. The proposed N47.90 trillion expenditure includes key allocations for defense, infrastructure, education, and healthcare. READ ALSO: Insecurity: Nigerians Paid N2.3trn as Ransom in One Year – NBS Report Tinubu emphasized bolstering security, improving infrastructure, and fostering self-sufficiency in agriculture. Revenue projections stand at N34.82 trillion, while the budget deficit is pegged at N13.08 trillion. The president highlighted significant milestones achieved under the 2024 budget, such as a 3.46% economic growth rate in Q3 and robust foreign reserves nearing $42 billion. For 2025, the focus shifts to reducing inflation, enhancing trade, and driving industrial output. With plans to reduce dependency on food and oil imports while boosting exports, Tinubu assured Nigerians of a brighter future, calling for collective action to overcome challenges and build a more prosperous nation.

Lagbaja: Police Officers to Wear Black Bands for Seven Days

In tribute to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has instructed all police officers across the country to wear black bands for the next seven days. This is part of the national mourning period following his passing at the age of 56 after battling an undisclosed illness. The presidency confirmed the death of Lagbaja on Wednesday, and the Federal Government has also ordered that the national flag be flown at half-mast in his honor. Lagbaja, appointed by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, was recognized for his leadership and dedication to combating insurgency and violent crime. In a statement on Thursday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, announced the directive from the IGP, acknowledging the late general’s contributions to national security. The black bands will serve as a mark of respect for his service and leadership.

Demand for Investment Migration in Nigeria Skyrockets by Over 1000%, Reveals Henley and Partners

Henley and Partners, a global leader in residence and citizenship by investment, has reported a staggering 1000% increase in demand for their services in Nigeria over the past three years. This was disclosed during the 2024 Investment Migration West Africa Roadshow, held recently in Abuja, where many Nigerians were introduced to programs that promise greater global mobility, enhanced living standards, and improved business prospects abroad. Speaking at the event, Stuart Wakeling, Managing Partner for the UK at Henley and Partners, emphasized that more Nigerians are seeking “Plan B” alternatives in light of global uncertainties. “Our services aren’t just about helping people move abroad,” Wakeling said. “It’s about providing security, better opportunities for families, and access to top-tier education and healthcare.” Wakeling noted that the increase in demand for alternative or additional residence and citizenship reflects Nigerians’ desire to diversify their options and secure a stable future. “We’ve seen a massive surge in interest from Nigerians eager to live, work, and travel freely across the world, unencumbered by visa restrictions and limited opportunities,” he explained. He emphasized that the goal is not merely to leave Nigeria but to broaden one’s horizons. “Having an alternative citizenship or residency means increased mobility, business opportunities, and access to world-class healthcare and education systems,” Wakeling added. At the roadshow, various popular investment migration programs were highlighted, including the Portugal Golden Residence Permit, Greece Golden Visa Program, and Spain Residence by Investment Program. These initiatives allow individuals to obtain residency or citizenship by making significant investments in real estate or businesses. For many Nigerians, these programs are pathways to a better quality of life and a more secure future for their families. Wakeling also stressed the growing need for a “Plan B” as uncertainties continue to affect Nigerians. “We can’t choose where we are born—it’s a passport lottery,” he said, explaining that while some people are blessed by their place of birth, for others, their nationality can limit their opportunities or even put them in danger. Henley and Partners offers Nigerians the chance to maintain their Nigerian identity while gaining the advantages of an additional residence or citizenship. “People want options without having to give up being Nigerian,” Wakeling noted. “This is where we come in, helping individuals gain an alternative status in the world’s leading jurisdictions.” Henley and Partners has cemented its position as a global leader in the investment migration industry, with over 50 offices worldwide and more than 400 staff. The firm offers access to over 45 residence and citizenship programs, the largest selection available globally. Wakeling remarked, “We are growing because, in today’s fractured world, having a ‘Plan B’ and greater global mobility through an alternative citizenship or residency is increasingly essential.” The investment migration industry is also evolving, with rising costs and changing entry requirements in Europe and the Caribbean. Wakeling highlighted some of these shifts: “This year, costs increased significantly in the Caribbean, Portugal eliminated its real estate entry point, and countries like Ireland and Montenegro have closed their programs.” Given the shifting landscape, Wakeling urged Nigerians interested in these programs to stay informed and act quickly. “The demand for these programs is only increasing, and Nigerians should seize the opportunities while they’re available,” he advised. Another key speaker at the event, Carlo Paguio, Director of Sales and Strategy Partnerships at Hotel 101, underscored the importance of selecting the right investment vehicle when pursuing residency or citizenship through investment. He said that Hotel 101’s real estate projects provide a reliable investment opportunity for Nigerians looking to gain residency. For many Nigerians, investment migration might seem like an unattainable dream, but the roadshow demonstrated that it is becoming more accessible than ever before. These programs not only provide paths to residency or citizenship but also offer the chance to invest in burgeoning economies and secure a stable future. The advantages of these programs are manifold: access to world-class healthcare and education, improved living standards, and the ability to travel visa-free to numerous countries. Most importantly, these programs provide Nigerians with a way to ensure a safe, stable, and prosperous future for their families. Henley and Partners is dedicated to offering flexible solutions tailored to meet the needs of its clients. Whether through the Portuguese Golden Visa or Caribbean citizenship programs, Nigerians now have multiple options to secure their future. As interest in investment migration continues to rise, Henley and Partners is leading the way, helping Nigerians take advantage of these opportunities to enhance their global mobility and financial security. For Nigerians eager to explore their options and secure a better future, Wakeling assured, “If you are interested in what we do, rest assured—you are in good company.”