Nigeria’s Economy Has Been Dwindling; The Political Class Are Visionless and Corrupt –Ardo

Nigeria’s Economic Malaise and the Crisis of Political Vision: A Guest Reflection on Ardo’s Interview

In a compelling episode of Prime Time on Arise News titled “Nigeria’s Economy Has Been Dwindling; The Political Class Are Visionless and Corrupt”, Umar Ardo, Convener of the Northern League of Democrats, delivers a scathing critique of Nigeria’s political establishment.

His central opinion is stark: the Nigerian economy is in freefall, and the political class, entrusted with the nation’s future, is bereft of vision, mired in corruption, and incapable of steering the country toward meaningful development.

110,000 turn out for far-right rally in London

Supporters of British far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, walk with Union flags and St George's cross and Welsh flags and Christian crosses through central London during a 'Free speech' march, on September 13, 2025. (Photo by CARLOS JASSO / AFP)

A Surge in Nationalism: 110,000 Rally in London Under Far-Right Banner

On September 13, 2025, central London became the epicenter of a massive political demonstration as approximately 110,000 people gathered for a rally organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson.

Branded as the “Unite the Kingdom” event, the march was promoted as a celebration of free speech and British heritage, but it also served as a platform for anti-immigration and nationalist sentiments that have been gaining traction across the United Kingdom.

Trump confirms arrest of suspected killer of Charlie Kirk

Trump Confirms Arrest in Charlie Kirk Assassination: Nation Reels from Political Violence

In a dramatic turn of events that has gripped the United States, President Donald Trump confirmed on Friday, September 12, 2025, that the suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk is now in custody.

The announcement came during a live interview on Fox & Friends, where Trump stated with “a high degree of certainty” that authorities had apprehended the individual believed responsible for the killing.

Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has criticized the global system’s inability to resolve regional conflicts, advocating for region-led solutions

 

Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan

Türkiye’s Diplomatic Pivot: Hakan Fidan Calls for Region-Led Conflict Resolution Amid Global System Failures

In a bold and pointed critique of the international order, Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has condemned the global system’s persistent failure to resolve regional conflicts, urging a shift toward region-led solutions that prioritize local agency and contextual understanding.

Speaking at a high-level diplomatic forum in Istanbul on September 10, 2025, Fidan emphasized that the current global governance architecture, dominated by distant bureaucracies and geopolitical interests, has repeatedly proven ineffective in delivering peace and stability to conflict-ridden regions.

The killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah

Assassination in Utah: The Killing of Charlie Kirk and Its Political Reverberations

The fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on September 10, 2025, at Utah Valley University has plunged the United States into a state of political mourning and intensified concerns over the rising tide of ideological violence.

Kirk, 31, co-founder and president of Turning Point USA, was addressing a crowd of over 3,000 attendees during the kickoff of his “American Comeback Tour” when a single gunshot rang out, striking him in the neck. He was pronounced dead hours later at a local hospital, and the incident has since been classified by Utah Governor Spencer Cox as a “political assassination”.

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.