Saudi Arabia Clarifies: Nigeria's Travellers and Pilgrims Not Affected by Ban – FG

<p> <p> On Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs refuted rumors that have been spreading online claiming Nigeria was added to a list of 14 nations subject to an entry ban in Saudi Arabia beginning April 13, 2025. </p> <p> In a statement issued by the media advisor to the Foreign Affairs Minister, Alkasim Abdulkadir, the ministry refuted these allegations, stating they were untrue. Additionally, officials from Saudi Arabia confirmed that no such entry restriction has been implemented. </p> <p> The statement indicated that the Saudi Tourism Center refuted the circulating memorandum, which claimed that multiple nations such as Nigeria, Egypt, India, and Pakistan were subject to visa limitations, stating that this information was false. </p> <p> The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly refutes the inaccurate assertions being circulated online suggesting that Nigeria has been placed on a list of nations subject to an entry ban into Saudi Arabia starting April 13, 2025. </p> <p> “The Saudi Arabian authorities have officially denied the validity of this viral memo, which falsely claims that several countries, including Nigeria, Egypt, India, Pakistan, and others, would be subject to visa restrictions and an entry ban. </p> <p> "The Saudi Tourism Center has stated that no such directive exists, and the only official travel guidelines presently enforced relate to the Hajj pilgrimage," the statement said. </p> <p> The sole set of official travel guidelines presently enforced pertains to the Hajj pilgrimage, as the statement clarified. </p> <p> The ministry stated that the sole limitation concerns tourists during the Hajj period. Specifically, from April 29 to June 11, 2025, those holding tourist visas will be prohibited from entering Makkah or undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage. </p> <p> Individuals with a Hajj visa alone will be allowed to enter the area during this time frame. </p> <p> The ministry advised Nigerians to ignore the inaccurate document and highlighted the significance of confirming travel details via official sources. </p> <p> Travelers should refer to the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or official Saudi government sources for current and reliable details. </p> <p> For clarification, the sole limitation pertains to those with tourist visas during the Hajj period. People who hold a tourist visa are prohibited from performing Hajj, entering, or remaining in Makkah from April 29 to June 11, 2025 (which corresponds to 01 Thul Qada to 14 Thul Hijjah 1446 AH). </p> <p> The Hajj visa is still the only authorized entry permit for pilgrims during this time. </p> <p> “The ministry urges the public to disregard the misleading document and to always verify travel information from official sources before taking action. Spreading unverified information can cause unnecessary confusion and disrupt travel plans. </p> <p> "For current and reliable details, visitors are encouraged to refer to official Saudi governmental platforms, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or recognized diplomatic avenues," the statement concluded. </p> </p> Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).

Saudi Arabia Clarifies: Nigeria's Travellers and Pilgrims Not Affected by Ban – FG

On Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs refuted rumors that have been spreading online claiming Nigeria was added to a list of 14 na...

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Kogi Official Reveals: N3bn Washed Through Private Accounts, Witness Says

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1vB1uk" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1vB1uk.jpg"/> <p> <p> A prosecution witness, Remigius Egu, on Tuesday, narrated before a Federal High Court in Abuja how over N3 billion belonging to various Local Government Areas in Kogi State was allegedly diverted and laundered through private accounts. Egu, a compliance officer with Zenith Bank, testified as the sixth prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of Ali </p> </p> <p> Read More </p>

Kogi Official Reveals: N3bn Washed Through Private Accounts, Witness Says

A prosecution witness, Remigius Egu, on Tuesday, narrated before a Federal High Court in Abuja how over N3 billion belonging to variou...

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Paradox of Progress: Mele Kyari's Tenure at NNPC During Reform and Stagnation (International Edition)

<div class="post-content-wrap has-share-float"> <div class="post-content cf entry-content content-spacious"> <p> <strong> Hector Igbikiowubo </strong> </p> <p> <strong> Lagos — </strong> President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s move to dismiss the board of NNPC Ltd and designate Bayo Ojulari as the new Group CEO signals the conclusion of Mallam Mele Kyari’s tenure, which was marked by both progress and standstill. This shift represents a new chapter following Kyari's ambiguous period of transformation and inertia. </p> <p> In July 2019, Mele Kyari, who previously served as the Group General Manager for Crude Oil Marketing at NNPC and holds a degree in geology, was selected as the Group Managing Director by ex-President Muhammadu Buhari. Following the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, his leadership witnessed NNPC evolving from a government-operated entity into a profit-oriented limited liability firm. During this period, he also advanced to hold the title of Group CEO post-incorporation. </p> <p> <strong> Key Highlights of Kyari’s Leadership </strong> </p> <p> <strong> Enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 </strong> </p> <p> Kyari managed the transformation of NNPC into NNPC Ltd., a business-focused organization, as required by the PIA. The objective was to enhance transparency and encourage private capital involvement. </p> <p> <strong> Enhanced Oil Output (Occasionally) </strong> </p> <p> During Kyari’s tenure, Nigeria experienced phases of enhanced oil output, with daily production surpassing 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd) at the beginning of 2020. However, this rise was followed by a significant drop because of oil theft and sabotage of pipelines. </p> <p> <strong> Dangote refinery agreement along with modular refineries drive </strong> </p> <p> Kyari struck a deal for crude supplies with the Dangote Refinery, aiming to decrease Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuels. Additionally, he backed small-scale refinery initiatives to enhance domestic refining capabilities. </p> <p> <strong> Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline Project </strong> </p> <p> The NNPC, led by Kyari, has progressed with talks regarding the $25 billion Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline project, an ambitious initiative designed to enhance gas shipments to Europe. </p> <p> <strong> Automation and Transparency Measures </strong> </p> <p> Kyari implemented digital monitoring systems to combat crude oil theft and released the first-ever audited financial statements of the NNPC for the years 2018 through 2020. However, skeptics raised doubts about the thoroughness of these reports. </p> <p> <strong> Low Points and Controversies </strong> </p> <p> <strong> No Transfers to Federation Account (2020-2022) </strong> </p> <p> For many years, NNPC did not transfer revenues to the Federation Account because of deductions related to petroleum subsidies and operating expenses. In 2022, the corporation announced no revenue transfers were made, which caused significant anger among state governments and the federal authorities. </p> <p> <strong> Petroleum Subsidy Mismanagement </strong> </p> <p> Under Kyari, subsidy disbursements increased dramatically from ₦154 billion in 2019 to more than ₦4 trillion in 2022, depleting government resources. The NNPC’s exclusive management of these subsidies was opaque, resulting in claims of corruption and ineffectiveness. </p> <p> <strong> Large-Scale Fuel Theft and Falling Output </strong> </p> <p> In spite of Kyari’s endeavors, crude oil theft escalated to record-breaking heights, causing Nigeria to lose approximately 400,000 barrels per day at its zenith in 2022. Consequently, this resulted in a decline in production down to as little as 900,000 barrels per day, significantly affecting revenues. </p> <p> <strong> Debated Oil Drilling Ventures in the Northern Regions </strong> </p> <p> Kyari advocated for oil drilling activities in the northern region, with special emphasis on the Kolmani River initiative. This proposal was largely viewed as politically motivated rather than driven by economic feasibility because of the limited confirmed reserves. </p> <p> <strong> Fuel Shortage and Reliance on Imports </strong> </p> <p> Even though Nigeria is Africa's leading oil producer, the country experienced ongoing fuel shortages during Kyari’s tenure because of the NNPC's control over imports and issues within the distribution system. </p> <p> <strong> Suspicious Inspections and Incomplete Openness </strong> </p> <p> Although Kyari attempted to disclose NNPC’s financial records, audits uncovered significant deficits (₦803 billion in 2018 and ₦1.7 trillion in 2019), sparking worries about the company’s financial prudence. </p> <p> <strong> Unsuccessful Overhaul of NNPC Refineries Despite Significant Investment </strong> </p> <p> One of the most contentious issues during Mele Kyari’s term was the **ineffective revitalization of Nigeria’s government-run refineries**, namely those in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna, despite substantial financial investments running into billions of dollars. </p> <p> <strong> $1.5 Billion Allocated for Rehabilitating Port Harcourt Refinery (2021) </strong> </p> <p> In 2021, Kyari disclosed that the federal government had sanctioned $1.5 billion for revamping the Port Harcourt refinery, aiming to finish by 2023. Nevertheless, come 2024, the facility still isn’t operational, with ongoing postponements attributed to "technical problems." </p> <p> <strong> Warri and Kaduna refineries are also shut down: </strong> </p> <p> Rehabilitation initiatives for the Warri ($1.2 billion) and Kaduna refineries were also unveiled, yet they failed to produce tangible outcomes. Consequently, Nigeria persisted with costly fuel imports, which burdened the country with substantial subsidy expenses. </p> <p> <strong> Refinery Non-Operational for Five Years: </strong> </p> <p> Even with Kyari’s reassurances, none of the refineries restarted operations during his tenure, which sparked doubts regarding fund management and the authenticity of the restructuring efforts. </p> <p> <strong> NNPC’s Decreasing Stake in Dangote Refinery </strong> </p> <p> In 2021, the NNPC declared that it had obtained a 20% share in the $19 billion Dangote Refinery, which is Africa’s biggest refinery, as part of a strategy to ensure a stable domestic fuel supply. Nonetheless, disputes quickly arose over this development. </p> <p> <strong> Real Stakes Apparently Less Than Advertised: </strong> </p> <p> The investigation found that NNPC’s real financial input was significantly lower than the anticipated $2.76 billion (which represents 20% of $19 billion). In reality, NNPC paid merely for 7.2%, equivalent to $1 billion, along with an extra $36 million in expenses. These payments were facilitated via a $1.036 billion loan obtained from Lekon Refinery Funding Limited. </p> <p> <strong> Is Debt Financing Preferable to Direct Investment? </strong> </p> <p> Certain reports indicated that NNPC’s "investment" was set up as an oil-backed loan instead of a direct equity acquisition. This implies that Nigeria could still face potential repayment risks rather than gaining complete access to profits. </p> <p> <strong> Crude Supply Dispute: Can NNPC Ensure Reliable Feeding of Dangote Refinery? </strong> </p> <p> The Dangote Refinery was designed to run on Nigerian crude, but NNPC’s ability to supply feedstock has been questioned due to: </p> <p> <strong> Nigeria’s Declining Oil Production: </strong> </p> <p> As crude production has dropped beneath 1.4 million barrels per day (falling well short of the OPEC target), there are worries that NNPC might find it difficult to fulfill both its delivery commitments to the Dangote Refinery and its export agreements simultaneously. </p> <p> <strong> Subsidies Debt and Crude-for-Fuel Barter Agreements: </strong> </p> <p> The current crude swap deals of NNPC (such as the Direct Sale, Direct Purchase, DSDP arrangement) might clash with providing crude oil to The Dangote Refinery, which could result in potential fuel supply interruptions should priority issues arise. </p> <p> <strong> Allegations of Favoritism: </strong> </p> <p> Critics argue that NNPC’s deal with Dangote Refinery disproportionately benefits a private entity while failing to revive Nigeria’s own refineries, raising questions about fairness and national interest. </p> <p> <strong> A Mixed Legacy </strong> </p> <p> During Mele Kyari’s term, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) experienced both progress and setbacks. He revamped the company’s organizational framework and launched significant initiatives; however, his time as leader was marred by unclear practices related to fuel subsidies, decreasing crude production levels, and financial losses. The decision to replace him reflects President Tinubu’s intention to steer the country’s petroleum industry towards fresh reforms, entrusting Bayo Ojulari with the mission to tackle these persistent issues. </p> <p> Although Kyari advocated for corporate reform within the PIA, his failure to rehabilitate refineries and guarantee transparency in agreements such as Dangote’s casts doubt on his legacy. His replacement, Bayo Ojulari, will have to tackle these outstanding problems to rebuild trust in Nigeria’s petroleum industry. </p> <p> The incoming NNPC CEO should focus on enhancing transparency, combating fuel theft, and maintaining profitability to align with the firm's commercially oriented standing. Kyari’s tenure will be noted for his significant changes as well as the ongoing challenges that remained during his leadership. </p> </div> </div> Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).

Paradox of Progress: Mele Kyari's Tenure at NNPC During Reform and Stagnation (International Edition)

Hector Igbikiowubo Lagos — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s move to dismiss the board of NNPC Ltd and de...

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PICTORIAL: Nigeria Welcomes Ghana's President Mahama to Aso Rock

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BNh28" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BNh28.jpg"/> <p> On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu welcomed his Ghanaian counterpart, John Mahama, to his official residence located in the State House in Abuja. </p> <p> This trip to Nigeria marks Mahama's first official visit since becoming president on January 7, 2025. </p> <p> It is anticipated that both leaders will concentrate on bolstering diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Ghana, particularly in fostering collaboration in trade and security. They are also likely to address significant regional matters within the Economic Community of West African States. </p> <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BN0we" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BN0we.jpg"/> <p> Soon after securing victory in the December 2024 presidential polls, Tinubu traveled to Accra to meet with Mahama and extend his congratulations for Mahama's presidency in Ghana. </p> <p> See photos below. </p> Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. <a href="http://syndigate.info"> Syndigate.info </a> ).

PICTORIAL: Nigeria Welcomes Ghana's President Mahama to Aso Rock

On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu welcomed his Ghanaian counterpart, John Mahama, to his official residence located in the State House i...

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5 Non-African Countries Nigerian Passport Holders Can Travel to Without a Visa

<p> <p> A key advantage of visa-free travel is enhanced movement between various nations globally. Nigerian citizens have the opportunity to explore multiple countries free from the economic strain and administrative hurdles linked to obtaining visas. </p> </p> <p> <p> Notably, some non-African countries have extended <a href="https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/03/full-list-40-countries-whose-citizens-can-enter-the-u-s-without-a-visa/"> visa-free entry </a> To specific nations in Africa, expanding possibilities for tourism as well as trade. </p> </p> <p> <p> Nevertheless, Nigeria's poor passport ranking keeps limiting opportunities for global travel, commerce, and international interaction, thereby constraining wider mobility. </p> </p> <p> <p> In this regard, here are five non-African nations where Nigerian passport holders do not require a visa: </p> </p> <p> <p> <strong> Places Nigerian citizens can travel to without obtaining a visa first </strong> </p> </p> <p> <p> <strong> Dominica </strong> </p> </p> <p> <p> Nigerian citizens enjoy a visa-exempt period of up to six months in Dominica, an idyllic Caribbean destination known for its dense rainforests, geothermal hot springs, and the dramatic Boiling Lake. Additionally, individuals who meet certain financial criteria have the option to apply for citizenship and obtain a passport through Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment program. </p> </p> <p> <p> <strong> St. Kitts and Nevis </strong> </p> </p> <p> <p> The dual-island country of St. Kitts and Nevis in the Caribbean is famous for its stunning shores and mist-covered peaks. Individuals from Nigeria can enter visa-free but are allowed to stay for up to three months. Additionally, this nation hosts one of the longest-running Citizenship by Investment schemes globally, offering an expedited path to citizenship via monetary investments and thorough background checks. </p> </p> <p> <p> <strong> Barbado </strong> </p> </p> <p> <p> A further beloved destination in the Caribbean that doesn’t demand a visa from Nigerian travelers is Barbados, renowned for its vibrant culture and cuisine. Visitors holding Nigerian passports can stay in Barbados up to ninety days. Annually, this island welcomes over 600,000 visitors and is often dubbed as the gastronomic hub of the Caribbean. </p> </p> <p> <p> <strong> Vanuatu </strong> </p> </p> <p> <p> Holders of Nigerian passports can enter Vanuatu without a visa and stay for up to 30 days. This South Pacific island country consists of roughly 80 islands. Renowned for its stunning beaches, lush jungles, active volcanoes, and overall natural allure, Vanuatu has significant tourist appeal even though it faces considerable economic challenges. </p> </p> <p> <p> <strong> Micronesia </strong> </p> </p> <p> <p> Nigerians are allowed a 30-day visa-exempt period in Micronesia, an archipelago comprising over 600 islands in the Pacific Ocean. This country attracts many adventurous travelers due to its abundant marine biodiversity and historic shipwreck diving sites. </p> </p> <p> <p> <a href="http://vanguardngr.com"> Vanguard News </a> </p> </p> Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( <a href="http://syndigate.info"> Syndigate.info </a> ).

5 Non-African Countries Nigerian Passport Holders Can Travel to Without a Visa

A key advantage of visa-free travel is enhanced movement between various nations globally. Nigerian citizens have the opportunity to ex...

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JUST IN: Chelle names Super Eagles starting XI to face Rwanda

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BoULK" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BoULK.jpg"/> <p> <p> The Super Eagles of Nigeria have confirmed their starting lineup for their FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda. </p> <p> According to Soar Super Eagles post on Friday via X, new coach Eric Chelle has named Stanley Nwabali as the starting goalkeeper, with Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Bright Osayi-Samuel forming the defensive line. </p> <p> In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi will take charge, while Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, and Ademola Lookman provide attacking support for Victor Osimhen, who leads the line. </p> <p> The bench includes Obasogie, Bankole, Ogbu, Onyemaechi, Torunarigha, Yusuf, Onyedika, Aribo, Papa Daniel, Sadiq, Akorodare, and Boniface, providing depth for potential tactical adjustments. </p> <p> The Super Eagles, who sit 5th in a table of six, will be aiming for a strong performance in their quest for World Cup qualification as they take on Rwanda. </p> </p> Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).

JUST IN: Chelle names Super Eagles starting XI to face Rwanda

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have confirmed their starting lineup for their FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda. According to...

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FG Announces Release of Freed Tourists in Cape Verde

<p> <strong> ABUJA </strong> – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has verified the liberation of the Nigerian citizens who were held in Cape Verde. </p> <p> The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pleased to announce that all Nigerian women who were detained in Cape Verde have now been freed and have departed from the country. The Ministry communicated with the Cape Verde authorities through our mission in Guinea-Bissau to facilitate their release. </p> <p> "The six women traveled to Cape Verde for vacation and were unjustly held on suspicion of trafficking, which was later proven to be untrue," stated Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa during an announcement about their release on Thursday in Abuja. </p> <p> It was reported that the six Nigerian tourists embarked on a holiday trip from Senegal to Cape Verde Island. Upon reaching Cape Verde, however, they were removed from the queue and charged with insufficient funds. As a result, the local authorities seized their mobile devices. </p> <p> The travelers include David James Udoh, Lily Dada, Oghenero Adaware, Sherifat Abimbola Ogundairo, and Jesutomi Aina, with ìrìn travels (@irintravels) and (@theFARAWAY ) serving as the tour agency. </p> Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).

FG Announces Release of Freed Tourists in Cape Verde

ABUJA – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has verified the liberation of the Nigerian citizens who were held in Cape Verde. The Min...

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