luchiinter blog

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has officially kicked off across eight American cities, delivering electrifying matches, dramatic finishes, and a few unexpected twists. This expanded tournament—featuring 32 elite clubs from around the world—is already living up to its billing as a global football spectacle. One of the biggest highlights so far came from Bayern Munich’s narrow 2-1 win over Boca Juniors in Miami. With a sellout crowd of over 63,000 fans at the Hard Rock Stadium, Bayern’s Harry Kane rose to the occasion with a goal and an assist, reinforcing his status as a world-class striker. Over in Cincinnati, Borussia Dortmund battled African giants Mamelodi Sundowns in a thrilling 4-3 encounter. Jobe Bellingham, younger brother of Jude, scored his first goal for Dortmund, and the team had to temporarily retreat to the dressing room due to extreme heat—a first in Club World Cup history. Juventus also showed dominance , with a commanding 4-1 win over Wydad Casablanca. Rising star K...

Tinubu Urges Swift Activation of ECOWAS Standby Force

In a firm and passionate address at the 65th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government held in Abuja, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made a renewed call for the immediate activation of the ECOWAS Standby Force (ESF). His appeal comes amid escalating insecurity across West Africa, including terrorism, banditry, and violent extremism that continue to threaten regional peace and stability. President Tinubu, who was handing over the chairmanship of ECOWAS to Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, emphasized that the current security threats facing the region require a united and immediate response. He urged fellow ECOWAS leaders to demonstrate strong political will and back their commitments with action and funding. “The time to act is now,” Tinubu said. “We must put our words into practice by operationalizing the Standby Force with adequate funding and logistics.” The ECOWAS Standby Force, which was formally activated earlier in March 2025, is a region...

Nigeria’s Foreign Reserves Hit $38.4 Billion in June – A Sign of Economic Progress

Nigeria’s Foreign Reserves Hit $38.4 Billion in June – A Sign of Economic Progress Nigeria’s foreign reserves rose significantly to $38.448 billion in June 2025, marking a major step forward in the nation’s economic recovery efforts. This increase comes after months of strategic reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy and rebuilding investor confidence. According to Hon. Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, Chairman of the House Committee on National Planning and Economic Development, the rise is largely due to the implementation of President Tinubu’s economic policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates. These tough but necessary decisions have helped stabilize Nigeria’s fiscal environment, attract investment, and boost foreign exchange inflows. The improvement in foreign reserves provides a critical buffer against economic shocks, especially in times of global financial uncertainty. It also gives the Central Bank more capacity to defend the naira, c...

Nigerian Female Fighter Pilot, Kafayat Sanni, Honoured in Ghana

In a remarkable achievement that has filled Nigerians with pride, Flight Lieutenant Kafayat Sanni, the country’s first female fighter pilot, has been honoured in Ghana for her exceptional performance. She received two prestigious awards — Best Allied Student and Best Assistant Commandant Paper — at the graduation ceremony of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) in Accra, held in June 2025. Kafayat Sanni has consistently proven her excellence, both in the skies and in academic circles. She rose to national prominence in 2019 when she was decorated as Nigeria’s first-ever female fighter pilot after successfully completing rigorous aviation training in the United States. This was a groundbreaking moment for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), as she broke a 55-year-old gender barrier. At GAFCSC, Sanni stood out among officers from several African countries, demonstrating her intellectual strength, leadership ability, and discipline. The Best Allied Student award recogn...

Air Peace Expands UK Reach with New Heathrow Slot

Nigeria’s largest airline, Air Peace , is taking a bold step forward in expanding its international footprint by securing a coveted slot at London’s Heathrow Airport. This development marks a significant milestone in the airline's mission to enhance connectivity between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and to give Nigerian travelers greater access to top-tier global aviation hubs. Since launching its Lagos to London route via Gatwick Airport in March 2024, Air Peace has recorded impressive success, with over 130,000 passengers served in its first year. While Gatwick has offered a strong gateway into the UK, the airline has always had its sights set on Heathrow—widely regarded as one of the busiest and most strategic airports in the world. The Heathrow slot acquisition represents more than convenience. It’s a power move in the global aviation space, ensuring Nigerian travelers enjoy direct access to central London and enhanced connections to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. For A...

Egypt, South Africa Outrank Nigeria in QS Global University Rankings

The 2026 QS World University Rankings have spotlighted a concerning trend in Africa’s academic landscape—Egypt and South Africa are pulling ahead, while Nigeria continues to lag behind. According to the latest ranking, Egypt emerged as the top-performing African country, with 20 universities on the list. South Africa followed with 11 institutions, several of which secured top-tier global positions. Nigeria, despite being the most populous country in Africa, had only three universities featured, none ranked within the top 1,000 globally. South African universities such as the University of Cape Town (150th globally) and the University of the Witwatersrand (291st) led the way in sub-Saharan Africa. Egypt’s Cairo University and the American University in Cairo were also among the top 400, showing consistent improvement in research output and academic reputation. These institutions benefited from strong government support, international partnerships, and better funding models. Meanwhile...

Senate to Consider 31 Proposals on State Creation in Nigeria’s Constitution Review

In a landmark move that could reshape Nigeria's political landscape, the Nigerian Senate has announced it is considering 31 proposals for the creation of new states as part of the ongoing constitutional review process. This development comes amidst growing calls for decentralization and greater representation across various regions of the country. The 1999 Constitution (as amended) is currently undergoing a significant review, with lawmakers across the National Assembly proposing amendments aimed at addressing issues of marginalization, underdevelopment, and ethnic representation. The demand for new states is not new in Nigeria’s political discourse, but the sheer number of proposals now under consideration—31 in total—is unprecedented. Some of the proposed states include Anioma from Delta State, Orlu from Imo State, Ibadan from Oyo State, Etiti from parts of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo, and Mambilla from Taraba State. Proponents argue that creating new states would br...

Scandal at Kirikiri: Prison Officers Caught Escorting Convict to Process Passport, Visa in Lagos

A shocking scandal has rocked Nigeria’s prison system, as officers at Kirikiri Maximum Security Prison in Lagos were caught escorting a convicted inmate, Haruna Ayo, to process an international passport and visa. The incident, which took place in May 2025, has sparked public outrage and raised serious questions about corruption and privilege within the Nigerian Correctional Service. Haruna Ayo, who is serving a 21-year sentence for armed robbery, was allegedly moved from the prison under the guise of receiving medical attention. However, instead of heading to a hospital, Ayo was taken to the Nigeria Immigration Service office in FESTAC Town, where he was caught in the process of obtaining travel documents. Immigration officers, sensing something unusual, flagged the suspicious behavior and reported it to authorities. Sources revealed that Ayo was among a select group of inmates assigned to domestic duties at the residence of a senior prison official. During this assignment, a warder...

West Africa Wants Deals with Trump, but US Entry Bans Pose Barrier –Nigerian minister

As the 2024 U.S. elections approach, West African leaders are expressing renewed interest in strengthening economic ties with a potential second Trump administration. However, Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs has voiced concern that existing U.S. travel restrictions on several African nations may stand in the way of fruitful cooperation. In a recent statement, the minister emphasized that while West Africa is open to building pragmatic relationships with any U.S. administration, including a potential return of Donald Trump to the White House, immigration and visa restrictions remain a major obstacle. “Our region is interested in investment, security collaboration, and trade partnerships,” he said. “But restrictive policies like entry bans, which disproportionately affect Africans, send the wrong message.” During Trump's first term, his administration imposed travel bans on several countries, including Nigeria, citing security concerns and inadequate information-sharing ...

Atiku, El-Rufai, Others Apply to Register New Political Party – All Democratic Alliance (ADA)

Nigeria’s political terrain is set for a shakeup as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, alongside ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and other prominent figures, has initiated the process of registering a new political party – the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) . The group recently submitted their application to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), signaling a major shift in Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections. The proposed All Democratic Alliance is envisioned as a broad coalition of politicians from different political backgrounds, including former members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and other smaller parties. This new movement aims to harness widespread dissatisfaction among Nigerians regarding insecurity, economic hardship, and the current state of governance. Insiders say the ADA seeks to provide a credible and united platform for change, focusing on good governance, you...

Africa and the Diaspora to Shine at Montreal’s International Junkanoo Festival, June 2025

Montreal is set to come alive with color, rhythm, and culture as the city hosts the International Junkanoo Festival of Tourism and Culture from June 23 to 29, 2025 . This year’s edition will spotlight the rich traditions of Kenya, Nigeria, Liberia, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Jamaica , offering a powerful celebration of African heritage and Caribbean spirit on a global stage. The festival, known for its vibrant displays of music, dance, and cultural expression, serves as a bridge connecting African nations and the Caribbean diaspora. Attendees can look forward to an explosion of traditional costumes, electrifying dance performances, and pulsating drumbeats that speak to centuries of resilience, pride, and creativity. Each participating country will showcase unique cultural elements at the festival’s Cultural Village . From Nigeria’s lively masquerade dancers to Kenya’s captivating tribal music, and Jamaica’s signature Junkanoo rhythms, visitors will experience the soul of these ...

Israel-Iran War: Stranded Nigerians Cry for Help from Underground Shelters

As the Israel-Iran conflict intensifies, many Nigerians caught in the warzone are sending out desperate cries for help. These stranded citizens, including students, workers, and tourists, have found themselves in a terrifying and uncertain situation. Many are currently hiding in underground bomb shelters across Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa, as rockets continue to rain down from both sides of the conflict. The situation escalated rapidly after tensions between Israel and Iran exploded into full-scale warfare, resulting in missile attacks, airstrikes, and widespread panic. Foreign nationals, including Nigerians, were caught off guard and have had little time to flee. With airports shutting down and public transportation disrupted, many have found themselves trapped with no immediate way out. In distressing videos circulating on social media, stranded Nigerians can be seen crouching in bunkers, visibly shaken and calling for urgent evacuation. "We are running out of foo...

UK Court Rules Against Shell Over Nigerian Oil Spill: A Landmark Victory for Niger Delta Communities

In a major legal breakthrough, a UK High Court has ruled against oil giant Shell in a case involving large-scale oil pollution in Nigeria’s Niger Delta. The judgment, delivered on June 20, 2025, represents a significant step forward for the Bille and Ogale communities, who have battled for years to hold Shell accountable for decades of environmental damage. The court firmly rejected Shell’s claim that the case was invalid due to Nigeria’s five-year legal time limit. It ruled that the continued presence of pollution in the affected areas constitutes a “continuing nuisance,” meaning the communities can still seek justice even if the original oil spills occurred long ago. This decision sets an important legal precedent that could impact future environmental cases. Importantly, the court also dismissed Shell’s argument that it could not be held responsible for oil spills caused by third-party sabotage. The judge noted that Shell may still be liable if it failed to take adequate steps to...

PhD Student Sues Federal Government After Visa Revoked Without Warning

A Nigerian PhD student in the United States has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. federal government after his student visa was abruptly revoked without prior notice. The student, whose name has been withheld for legal reasons, was enrolled in a prestigious university and was in the final stages of his doctoral program when he received a shocking notice that his F-1 visa had been cancelled. According to the lawsuit, the revocation came without explanation, warning, or any opportunity to respond. The student alleges that he had maintained full compliance with all immigration and academic requirements, including active enrollment, regular reporting, and good academic performance. The sudden visa cancellation left him in legal limbo, forcing him to pause his research and putting his future academic and professional career at serious risk. In his legal filing, the student argues that the visa revocation violated his right to due process under U.S. law. He contends that the government’s a...

EU And Germany Partner With Nigeria On 17.9m Euro Off-Grid Power Initiative

In a major step toward tackling Nigeria’s persistent power challenges, the European Union and Germany have pledged a combined £17.9 million to support Nigeria’s off-grid energy sector. The funding is part of Phase III of the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP), a long-term initiative focused on expanding access to reliable, clean electricity—especially in rural and underserved communities. This collaboration, led by Germany’s development agency GIZ and the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Power, aims to provide electricity access to at least 154,000 Nigerians and clean cooking solutions for 30,000 households through LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). Additionally, the project will generate an estimated 8 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy capacity, primarily through mini-grid installations and other decentralized systems. Nigeria’s national grid remains weak and inconsistent, with repeated collapses affecting millions. The push for off-grid alternatives, therefore, is not just timely b...

Nigerian Flood Crisis: Over 3,000 Homes Destroyed, Thousands Displaced in 2025 Catastrophe

The devastating floods that swept through several parts of Nigeria in 2025 have left a humanitarian crisis in their wake, with over 3,000 homes destroyed and more than 3,000 people displaced . The worst-hit areas include Mokwa in Niger State, parts of Kwara, Rivers, and other flood-prone zones, where relentless rainfall turned communities into rivers and villages into rubble. In Mokwa alone, torrential downpours that began in late May caused massive flash floods, collapsing bridges, cutting off roads, and destroying homes and farmlands. Entire families were uprooted overnight, as fast-rising waters forced them to flee for their lives, leaving behind all their belongings. Rescue operations have recovered dozens of bodies, while hundreds remain missing and are feared dead. The displaced are now taking refuge in overcrowded schools, churches, and temporary camps, relying on emergency assistance for food, clean water, and healthcare. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nig...

Netherlands Returns 119 Benin Bronzes To Nigerian In Historic Repatriation

In a major milestone for cultural justice, the Netherlands has returned 119 Benin Bronzes to Nigeria, marking one of the most significant repatriations of African artifacts in history. The artifacts, which include intricately designed plaques, royal statues, ceremonial objects, and ancestral figures, were looted in 1897 by British troops during a violent invasion of the Benin Kingdom, now located in Edo State, Nigeria. The official handover ceremony took place in The Hague, where Dutch government officials formally transferred the items to a Nigerian delegation. These artifacts had been held in several Dutch museums for decades, admired for their artistic brilliance but long criticized for their colonial origins. The return of the Benin Bronzes follows years of advocacy by Nigerian cultural institutions and international heritage groups calling for the restitution of African treasures stolen during colonial times. Nigerian officials hailed the move as a victory for justice, dignity,...

Nigerian Company To Produce HiV And Malaria Test Kits After US Funding Cuts

In a major step toward health independence, a Nigerian company, Codix Bio Limited, is set to begin the local production of HIV and malaria test kits. This initiative follows significant funding cuts from the United States government, which had previously provided substantial financial support for Nigeria’s health programs through USAID and other agencies. In 2024 alone, the U.S. contributed over $740 million to Nigeria’s health sector, supporting critical programmes for HIV treatment, malaria prevention, and immunization. However, a recent shift in U.S. foreign aid policy has led to a suspension of new funding, raising serious concerns about the sustainability of these essential services. To bridge the gap, Codix Bio has partnered with South Korean medical diagnostics firm SD Biosensor, with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO). The new facility, located near Lagos, is expected to produce up to 147 million test kits annually, a capacity large enough to meet Nigeri...

2025 Hajj: NAHCON Seeks Quick Return of Nigeria Pilgrims

- June 19, 2025

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has intensified efforts to ensure the swift and safe return of Nigerian pilgrims who participated in the 2025 Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. As the spiritual rites of Hajj come to a close, the commission is focusing on logistics and coordination with key stakeholders to guarantee a seamless return process for all Nigerian pilgrims. NAHCON Chairman, Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi, emphasized the commission’s commitment to a timely airlift of pilgrims back to Nigeria, avoiding unnecessary delays that could affect the comfort and well-being of pilgrims. He noted that the return flights are scheduled to commence on June 19 and will continue in phases until all pilgrims are brought home. In preparation for this, NAHCON is working closely with the approved airlines—Air Peace, Max Air, Flynas, and others—to ensure that flights are available and well-coordinated. Additionally, the commission is collaborating with state pilgrim welfare...

🇳🇬 Nigeria to Export First Gasoline Cargo to Asia from Dangote Refinery

In a groundbreaking development, Nigeria is set to export its first gasoline shipment from the Dangote Refinery to Asia , signaling a major milestone in the country's energy sector. The shipment, scheduled for June 22, 2025 , marks Nigeria’s official entry into the global refined petroleum market. The $20 billion Dangote Refinery , located in the Lekki Free Trade Zone in Lagos, is Africa’s largest oil refinery and one of the biggest globally. With a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day , the refinery has already begun producing diesel and jet fuel. Now, with gasoline exports on the horizon, Nigeria is taking a bold step toward reducing its historic reliance on imported fuel. This first export cargo is being handled by major international trading firms, further underscoring confidence in the refinery’s output and Nigeria’s refining potential. The refinery’s expansion into gasoline exports is expected to boost Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves , improve the balance of trade , an...

U.S Court Jails Five Nigerians For $17 Million Fraud - Sentenced TO 159 Years

In a major crackdown on cybercrime, a U.S. federal court in Texas has sentenced five Nigerian nationals to a combined 159 years in prison for their involvement in a massive $17 million fraud scheme. The convicted individuals — Damilola Kumapayi, Sandra Iribhogbe Popnen, Edgal Iribhogbe, Chidindu Okeke, and Chiagoziem Okeke — were found guilty of a series of financial crimes that targeted more than 100 victims, mostly elderly Americans. The elaborate scheme, which operated from 2017, included romance scams , business email compromise (BEC) , fake investment offers , and unemployment benefits fraud . Using fake identities and emotional manipulation, the group swindled victims into transferring large amounts of money, believing they were helping loved ones or investing in legitimate opportunities. During sentencing, Judge Amos L. Mazzant emphasized the cruel and calculated nature of the crimes, especially how they preyed on vulnerable individuals. Some victims lost their life saving...

President Tinubu Visits Benue State Over Massacre – A Turning Point?

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu paid a solemn visit to Benue State today, June 18, 2025, following the brutal massacre of over 100 innocent people in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area. His visit comes in the wake of mounting national outrage and sorrow over the unending violence that has plagued parts of Benue. Upon arrival in Makurdi, President Tinubu went straight to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, where he met with survivors and injured victims, offering words of comfort and support. He later proceeded to the scene of the attack in Yelewata, where charred homes, mass graves, and devastated families painted a heart-wrenching picture of the violence. At a stakeholder meeting held at the Government House, President Tinubu met with grieving families, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and political figures, including Governor Hyacinth Alia, SGF George Akume, and the Chief of Defence Staff. He expressed his deep sorrow and assured citizens that the federal government w...

PZ Cussons to Sell 50% Stake in Nigerian Joint Venture for $70 Million