China’s Global Governance Initiative continues to gain 'traction'

Ma Yan Yuqing, Consul General of the Peoples Republic of China

China’s Global Governance Initiative Gains Momentum Amid Global Uncertainty

China’s Global Governance Initiative (GGI), unveiled by President Xi Jinping at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Plus Meeting in Tianjin on September 1, 2025, is rapidly gaining traction across the international community, particularly among nations in the Global South.

As the world grapples with rising geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation, and governance deficits, the GGI has emerged as a timely blueprint for reforming the global order and promoting inclusive multilateralism.

Nigeria Customs Service announced that 286,697 candidates have advanced to the next stage of its recruitment exercise

Nigeria Customs Service Advances Over 286,000 Candidates in Landmark Recruitment Drive

In a sweeping move that underscores Nigeria’s push toward transparency and modernization in public sector hiring, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced that 286,697 candidates have successfully advanced to the next stage of its ongoing recruitment exercise.

This development marks a significant milestone in one of the country’s largest and most competitive federal recruitment processes in recent years.

Sentencing of Mahmud Muhammad Usman, the presumed leader of the jihadist group Ansaru, to 15 years in prison for illegal mining activities

Justice Delivered: Mahmud Muhammad Usman Sentenced to 15 Years for Terror Financing Through Illegal Mining

In a landmark ruling that underscores Nigeria’s intensifying crackdown on terrorism financing, the Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Mahmud Muhammad Usman, the presumed leader of the jihadist group Ansaru, to 15 years in prison for engaging in illegal mining activities.

The conviction marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to dismantle the financial networks that sustain extremist violence across the country.

Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has called for the disbandment of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) if the country fails to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

John Mikel Obi, Former Nigeria's Super Eagle's Captain

 Mikel Obi’s Ultimatum: Disband the NFF if Nigeria Misses the 2026 World Cup

In a scathing rebuke of Nigeria’s football administration, former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has called for the complete dissolution of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) should the national team fail to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking candidly on his Obi One Podcast, the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner expressed deep frustration over the Super Eagles’ faltering qualification campaign, which has left the team six points adrift of Group C leaders South Africa with only two matches remaining.

Federal Government endorsed China’s Global Governance Initiative (GGI)

Nigeria’s Strategic Embrace of China’s Global Governance Initiative: A New Chapter in Multilateral Diplomacy

In a move that signals Nigeria’s growing assertiveness on the global stage, the Federal Government has formally endorsed China’s newly launched Global Governance Initiative (GGI), positioning itself as a key partner in the reimagining of international cooperation.

The endorsement came during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Plus meeting held in Tianjin, China, on September 1, 2025, ahead of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.

The GGI, unveiled by President Xi Jinping, builds upon China’s earlier frameworks, the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), and aims to address pressing challenges in global governance, including climate change, digital inequality, representation, and the regulation of emerging technologies.

Daughter tricks elderly mother into signing her house away and then evicts her

Betrayal at Home: Daughter Deceives Elderly Mother and Claims Her House

In a deeply unsettling case of familial betrayal, an elderly woman from Entumbane, Zimbabwe, found herself evicted from her own home after her daughter allegedly tricked her into signing away ownership.

The woman, Ms. Siphiwe Moyo, had purchased her property from the Bulawayo City Council in 1998, securing legal rights to the house through a formal memorandum of agreement.

Woman who had sex with her pet dog at the behest of her boyfriend is now engaged?

Twisted Acts and Legal Fallout: The Case of Paige Reaney and Graham Marshall

In a deeply disturbing case that has shocked the UK, Paige Reaney, a 33-year-old woman from Sheffield, admitted to engaging in sexual acts with her pet dog, a pug named Charlie, on four separate occasions.

These acts, which occurred between August 2019 and December 2022, were reportedly carried out at the behest of her partner, Graham Marshall, 38, who has also faced serious charges in connection with the abuse.

Fugitive father who went on the run with his children for nearly four years shot dead by police

The Violent End of a Fugitive Father Who Hid His Children from the World

For nearly four years, Tom Phillips eluded authorities in New Zealand, vanishing into the dense wilderness of the Waikato region with his three young children, Jayda, Maverick, and Ember, following a custody dispute with their mother.

What began as a mysterious disappearance in December 2021 evolved into one of the country’s most gripping manhunts, marked by sporadic sightings, criminal activity, and growing concern for the children's welfare.

EditorialRoundUp | At This Time

-Editorial Roundup-

Nigeria and the World at a Crossroads at this time

In Nigeria, the week has been marked by a mix of judicial reckoning, diplomatic alignment, and sporting frustration.

A major development came with the sentencing of Mahmud Muhammad Usman, the presumed leader of the jihadist group Ansaru, to 15 years in prison for illegal mining activities. This conviction, though focused on economic crimes, is deeply entwined with terrorism financing, as Usman allegedly used proceeds from mining to fund attacks and procure weapons. His group, a splinter faction of Boko Haram now aligned with al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, has been implicated in high-profile kidnappings, prison breaks, and railway bombings. The trial for his broader terrorism charges is set for October, and the outcome could signal Nigeria’s resolve in dismantling insurgent networks.

Infant dies after Mom's boyfriend allegedly bashed in her skull during assault

A Tragedy in the Bronx: The Death of Imani Mitchell and the Shadows of Domestic Violence

In a harrowing case that has shaken the Bronx community, 1-year-old Imani Mitchell lost her life following a brutal assault allegedly carried out by her mother’s boyfriend, Jerome Thomas.

The incident occurred on the evening of August 28, inside a Woodstock apartment where Thomas had been entrusted with babysitting the child. 

Why I stopped Attending Church For More Than 10 Years - Actor Yemi Solade

Nollywood Actor, Yemi Solade

Why Yemi Solade Stopped Attending Church for Over a Decade

Veteran Nollywood actor Yemi Solade recently opened up about his decision to stop attending church services for more than ten years, a choice rooted in a deeply personal experience that challenged his professional life and peace of mind.

Speaking candidly on the Honest Bunch Podcast, Solade recounted a pivotal moment in 2013 that led to his withdrawal from regular church attendance. 

From Wilderness to Gunfire: The Fatal Fall of a Fugitive Dad

-SEB EDITORIAL-

The Fugitive Father: A Tragic End to a Wilderness Odyssey

In one of New Zealand’s most haunting and perplexing manhunts, the saga of Tom Phillips, a father who vanished into the wild with his three children, came to a violent and tragic close.

For nearly four years, Phillips eluded authorities, surviving in the rugged bushland of the Waikato region while raising his children in isolation, far from the reach of society, education, and healthcare. 

His disappearance in December 2021 followed a custody dispute with the children’s mother, who held sole guardianship. What began as a domestic conflict spiraled into a national mystery, captivating the public and frustrating law enforcement.

NERDC confirms new subjects for Nigeria’s education reform

-SEB EDITORIAL-
A Curriculum Reimagined: Nigeria’s Bold Step Toward Educational Reform

In a decisive stride toward modernizing Nigeria’s education system, the Federal Government has released a comprehensive list of approved subjects for both basic and senior secondary schools.

This move, spearheaded by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), marks a significant shift in the nation’s pedagogical approach, aiming to reduce curriculum overload while enhancing relevance, flexibility, and skill acquisition.

2027 Presidency: Jonathan splits South-South PDP

Fmr. Nigeria's President, His Excellency, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan

-TOWARDS 2027-

2027 Presidency: Jonathan’s Rumored Comeback Splits South-South PDP

The political landscape of Nigeria’s South-South region is witnessing a seismic shift following reports of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s potential bid for the 2027 presidency.

Though Jonathan has yet to make a formal declaration, whispers of his return have stirred deep divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), fracturing its unity across key states.

Nepal's Prime Minister has quit amid deadly Gen Z Protests over a social media ban and alleged corruption

Nepal's Political Crisis Deepens as Prime Minister Resigns Amid Gen Z-Led Uprising

Kathmandu has erupted into chaos following the dramatic resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who stepped down late Tuesday amid a wave of deadly protests led by Nepal’s Gen Z population.

The unrest, which began as a response to a controversial social media ban, quickly escalated into a nationwide movement against corruption, privilege, and political impunity.

NIGERIA | QATAR'S VISA BAN | A DEEPER INSIGHT

-SEB EDITORIAL-

Qatar’s Visa Clampdown on Nigerian Men, A Policy Rooted in Prejudice or Pragmatism?

In a move that has stirred diplomatic unease and public outcry, Qatar’s Ministry of Interior has enacted a sweeping visa restriction targeting Nigerian men traveling alone. 

Effective from September 5, 2025, the policy bars solo male Nigerian travelers from obtaining tourist or transit visas, unless accompanied by family.

The rationale, according to Qatari authorities, is to curb the rising trend of visa overstays by Nigerian nationals, a justification that, while administratively sound, raises troubling questions about fairness, stereotyping, and international relations.

Nigeria | Once Again, National Grid Collapses

NATIONAL GRID

-SEB EDITORIAL-

A Nation in the Dark | The September 10 Grid Collapse and Nigeria’s Power Paradox

On the morning of September 10, 2025, at about 11:23 a.m., Nigeria’s national electricity grid suffered yet another catastrophic collapse, plunging vast swathes of the country into darkness.

From the bustling streets of Lagos to the administrative corridors of Abuja, the blackout was swift, sweeping, and disturbingly familiar.

Why we increased passport fee by 100% - FG

Passport Fee Hike: Federal Government Defends 100% Increase Amid Reforms

In a move that has stirred widespread debate across Nigeria, the Federal Government has announced a 100% increase in the cost of obtaining international passports, citing the need for reform, improved service delivery, and the elimination of corruption as key motivations.

Effective September 1, 2025, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) revised the fees for passport applications made within Nigeria. The cost of a 32-page passport with five-year validity has risen from ₦50,000 to ₦100,000, while the 64-page passport with ten-year validity now costs ₦200,000.

Full list: FG releases approved subjects for basic and senior secondary schools

Nigeria’s Federal Government Unveils New Curriculum for Basic and Senior Secondary Schools

In a landmark move aimed at reforming Nigeria’s education system, the Federal Government has officially released the approved list of subjects for Basic and Senior Secondary Education.

This announcement, made by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), comes as part of the National Education Sector Reform Initiatives (NESRI), which seeks to streamline learning, reduce curriculum overload, and enhance skill acquisition across the country.

South-west Fulani council bans night grazing and firearms possession by herders

South-West Fulani Council Enforces Ban on Night Grazing and Firearms Possession by Herders

In a decisive move aimed at curbing insecurity and fostering peaceful coexistence, the Council of Fulani Chiefs in South-West Nigeria has announced a sweeping ban on night grazing, underage herding, and the possession of firearms by Fulani herders.

This resolution was made public during a press briefing held in Lagos, led by Mohammed Bambado, the Sarkin Fulani of Lagos and chairman of the council.

2027: INEC worries over early campaigns; recognises David Mark-led ADC

INEC Raises Concerns Over Premature Campaigns Ahead of 2027 Elections; Officially Recognises David Mark-Led ADC Leadership

As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has voiced its growing concern over the surge of early political campaigns by various parties and candidates.

Despite clear stipulations in the Electoral Act regarding the timeline for electioneering, INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu revealed that the commission is legally constrained from taking punitive action against politicians who have already begun campaigning. This legal limitation has sparked debate among stakeholders about the need for reform and stricter enforcement mechanisms to preserve the integrity of the electoral process.

FG gazettes new tax reform laws

Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu

-SEB EDITORIAL-

Nigeria’s Tax Reform: A New Dawn or Another Mirage?

The official gazetting of Nigeria’s new tax reform laws marks a pivotal moment in the country’s economic narrative.

For decades, Nigeria has grappled with a convoluted tax system, a narrow revenue base, and a tax-to-GDP ratio that lags behind continental peers. Now, with the publication of four consolidated laws, the Nigeria Tax Act, the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act, the Tinubu administration is signaling its intent to rewrite the fiscal playbook.

Wike appoints Nancy Nathan FCTA acting Head of Service

Nancy Sabanti Nathan, Ag. Head of Service, FCTA

Nancy Sabanti Nathan Appointed Acting Head of Service for FCTA

In a swift administrative response to an unexpected vacancy, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has appointed Mrs. Nancy Sabanti Nathan as the Acting Head of Service of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

This appointment follows the passing of the former Head of Service, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, who died last week, leaving a critical leadership gap in the FCTA.

Tinubu orders overhaul of military operations after Borno massacre

Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Tinubu Orders Military Overhaul Following Borno Massacre

In the wake of a devastating terrorist attack in Borno State, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has ordered a sweeping review of military operations across the country.

The directive follows the tragic events in Darajamal community, Bama Local Government Area, where Boko Haram insurgents launched a deadly assault that claimed the lives of both civilians and soldiers.

Nigeria's new tax reform laws officially published in gazette

Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Nigeria's New Tax Reform Laws: A Bold Step Toward Fiscal Transformation

In a landmark move to overhaul its fiscal framework, Nigeria has officially published its new tax reform laws in the government gazette, marking a significant milestone in the country’s economic restructuring efforts.

Signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on June 26, 2025, the reforms consolidate four major legislations: the Nigeria Tax Act (NTA), the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA), the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act (NRSEA), and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act (JRBEA). These laws aim to simplify Nigeria’s tax system, enhance transparency, and stimulate economic growth by creating a more business-friendly environment.