UBA Group Chairman, Tony O. Elumelu, Applauded by Distinguished Leaders for Youth Empowerment in Africa
A gathering of prominent global leaders, including Nigeria’s President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), as well as numerous leaders from the public and private sectors, came together to commend the exceptional contributions of Tony Elumelu, Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), to youth development and entrepreneurship in Africa.
These distinguished leaders expressed their admiration for Tony Elumelu, who also serves as the Chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, recognizing his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, his advocacy for entrepreneurship, and his dedication to the growth of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) across the continent.
These accolades were bestowed upon Tony Elumelu during the TEF-UNDP Breakfast Roundtable meeting, held on the sidelines of the ongoing 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
This gathering also served as the platform for the launch of the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Impact Report titled “The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme: A Decade of Impact.”
President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite, urged other capable Africans to follow in the footsteps of Tony Elumelu by investing in youth empowerment. She stressed the importance of ensuring that the continent becomes self-reliant and no longer depends on foreign donors, highlighting Tony Elumelu’s role in driving investments, supporting SMEs, and promoting youth entrepreneurship and start-ups.
Sanwo-Olu, in agreement with the minister, recognized Tony Elumelu’s efforts in empowering and building the youth. He noted that these efforts align perfectly with Lagos state’s initiatives for economic empowerment and poverty reduction.
Ahunna Eziakonwa, UNDP’s Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the Regional Bureau for Africa, expressed her immense inspiration by Tony Elumelu’s vision for African youth. She emphasized the shared passion between UNDP and Tony Elumelu in promoting human development and providing opportunities for individuals to shape their destinies.
Eziakonwa explained the reason behind UNDP’s continued partnership with TEF, highlighting the potential impact of having ten individuals like Tony Elumelu each investing $100 million in young people over the next decade. She stressed the tremendous success achieved on the continent with limited investment and envisioned the continent’s unstoppable potential if such efforts were multiplied.
She assured participants of UNDP’s continued excitement about partnering with TEF and the intention to elevate this partnership to new heights, emphasizing their commitment to this cause.
The meeting provided a platform for global leaders to engage in discussions on critical global issues. Among the participants were the Representative of the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, the Chief Executive Officer of Generation Unlimited, UNICEF Kevin Frey, and many others. They all concurred that Tony Elumelu’s achievements and his passion for youth empowerment deserved unequivocal recognition.
In his presentation, Tony Elumelu commended all partners, including UNICEF, UNDP, and UBA, acknowledging UBA’s significant support. He reminded the audience of the inception of TEF seed capital funding, emphasizing its roots in his vision to effect change in Africa using African solutions.
Tony Elumelu articulated the collective goal: “to see young entrepreneurs in Africa build sustainable businesses for themselves and generate viable green jobs, so that our young ones are not left behind in the inevitable green economy that the world will transition to.”
He passionately called for increased collaboration to prioritize young Africans, foster economic activities, and alleviate poverty. He emphasized the importance of the beacon lit by TEF and the need for it to shine even brighter with the support and collaboration of everyone. He stressed the urgency of providing economic support to young Africans, addressing the impact of climate change, and ending the migration and hardships faced by the continent’s youth.
Queen of Rosary College (QRC) Class of 1983 commemorates Ruby Reunion and Anniversary… emphasizing the importance of excellence in education
The Alumni of Queen of The Rosary College Onitsha, QRC Class of 1983 recently celebrated 40 years of graduating from college, highlighting and stressing that the importance of quality education in life.
Speaking during the Reunion event which held at Dees Hotel in Ajao Estate, Lagos, President of QRC 83 set, Professor Ogochukwu Ifeka, said the anniversary celebration was organised to underscore the education and values inculcated on them as young girls in the school some 40 years ago. Ifeka who is a lecturer at Chukwu Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Anambra State, said the gala night was the highlight of the 3-day activities which included a charity donation to an orphanage home in Lagos.”Also as part of giving back we are paying WAEC fees for indigent students whilst we also help uplift each other when any of us is in need” she stated.
The Global Secretary of Queen of the Rosary College, Lady Chizor Malize, said QRC Alumni body is working with the school and government to rebuild the school. “The Alumni are doing well in helping to foster quality education and modelling students of excellence, to become excellent future leaders. Chizor Malize, who is the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC) also stated that the Alumni Association which consists of all graduating students from the school over the last decades, dating back to 1952 has been consistent in contributing to the school.
“We built science laboratories, dormitories, renovated the auditorium and and done quite a lot. We are delighted because each time we go to the government they support us, so whatever it is that we bring, they add to it to support the school”. She said the school has continued to excel winning awards in science, technology, and debates all over the country, including the United States of America, and Dubai. We are arguably the best all-girls school in the east of Niger,” she said.
One key highlight of the event was the presence of 80-year-old Mrs Caroline Anienwelu who passed out from the college in 1962. Going back memory lane, Mrs Anienwelu said “I was in QRC from 1958 to 1962. The school, which is renowned for its outstanding uniform colour, red and white is a symbol of elegance, beautified in education. When I finished my WAEC, I had to continue in QRC. I had to continue for two more years to do my post-secondary level. So in 1964, I had my Cambridge A levels in QRC, and I was the senior prefect”
Queen of the Rosary College, Onitsha was founded in 1942 by His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Charles Heerey, C.S.S.P, of blessed memory, the then Archbishop of Onitsha. The college has produced many professionals in all spheres of life. Some of the founding members of the QRC Class of 83 are, Past President, Ngozi Anyabolu, Past Vice President, Chinese Viola Udeze and Mrs Ifeoma Aigbe.
HACKAHOLICS DIGITAL SUMMIT 2023: WEMA BANK LAUNCHES AFRICA’S LARGEST GATHERING OF INNOVATORS, DISRUPTORS, REGULATORS, POLICYMAKERS, INVESTORS & CUSTOMERS IN THE DIGITAL SPACE
Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has announced the launch of the Hackaholics Digital Summit 2023, Africa’s largest gathering of innovators, disruptors, regulators, policymakers, investors & customers in the digital space.
This groundbreaking summit will serve as a hub for sharing cutting-edge insights, trends, and best practices in the tech industry towards the positive transformation of technology and innovation not just in Nigeria but across the African continent.
In 2019, Wema Bank introduced Hackaholics, a dedicated initiative targeting youth and startups. Its mission is to provide a stage for entrepreneurs and innovators with transformative, tech-driven concepts to bring their ideas to fruition and refine their skills. The 4th edition of Hackaholics, launched in April 2023, involved several months-long journey to top Nigerian universities to identify and nurture talented students with creative ideas. These students were afforded the opportunity to collaborate, enhance their skills, and actualize their unique concepts through technology. The Hackaholics Digital Summit will host both the grand finale of Hackaholics 4.0 and the inaugural edition of the digital summit.
The Hackaholics Digital Summit 2023 is scheduled for October 6, 2023, in Lagos, Nigeria, under the theme “Re-Imagine: Disrupting the Ecosystem for Scale.” This multifaceted event commences with the launch of the Hackaholics Digital Summit and concludes with the exciting grand finale of Hackaholics 4.0. During this grand event, the standout teams from the competition will showcase their innovations, contending for the prestigious titles of Hackaholics 4.0 winners.
Notably, the winning team will receive a grant of N10,000,000 worth of prizes, the first runner-up N7,000,000 worth of prizes, the second runner-up N5,000,000 worth of prizes, while a special N3,000,000 grant is reserved exclusively for a female-led team. Additionally, a N15,000,000 grant will be allocated to University STEM endowment.
The Digital Summit will further encompass an array of simultaneous master classes, providing attendees with the opportunity to witness the emergence of Africa’s technological future while gaining invaluable insights from renowned experts. These masterclasses will delve into topics such as “The Future of Financial Services,” “Venture Capital and Funding Viable Innovation for Scale,” and “Strategic Technology for Impact & Societal Change: Transforming Today & Tomorrow’s World.”
Attendance to this prestigious event is by invitation only; however, interested customers and technology enthusiasts can secure a spot at the Wema Bank Hackaholics Digital Summit 2023 by registering at https://hackaholics.wemabank.com/digital-summit.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this exceptional gathering, charting the course for the future of technology in Africa.
How to Enter Saint Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Fiji and More without Visa
It is important that after working through the year, one should take a break and rest, findings however showed that the time to rest in most cases for Nigerians are usually used in working, it was based on this that many would rather travel outside their state of residents or even the country.
The issue with travelling out of the country is the time it takes to process the traveling document and availability of countries to visit, in this write-up we will be exposing our readers to some countries Nigeria can enter without visa, how long they can stay, the airlines plying those countries and many more.
Below are some countries Nigerian passport holder did not require visa or any other travelling document to visit…
Cape Verde
Stay Duration: 30 days
Cape Verde or Cabo Verde, officially the Republic of Cabo Verde, is an archipelago and island country in the central Atlantic Ocean, consisting of ten volcanic islands with a combined land area of about 4,033 square kilometres.
Entry Requirements
Nigeria passport holders can get Cape Verde for a period of 30 days without the need for a visa.
Nigeria citizens hoping to travel to Cape Verde must register online, preferably five days prior to their arrival to Cape Verde.
An airport Security Tax of CVE 3400 is levied on tourists arriving in Cape Verde.
Intending visitors are required to have a passport valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of arrival in Cape Verde. The passport should have two blank pages for visa stamping.
Travellers under the age of 18 must show travel authorization from their parents or guardians.
Tourists travelling to Cape Verde must provide proof of a confirmed means of accommodation for their entire stay in Cape Verde. This could be in the form of a sponsor letter from a host living in the country or a hotel reservation.
Visitors are required to show proof of enough funds to spend during their in Cape Verde.
Prospective visitors can get to Cape Verde from any international airport in Nigeria. There are international airports in Lagos and Abuja.
British Airways, Ethiopia Airways, Air Europa, and Royal Air Maroc are some of the carriers that fly from Kenya to Cape Verde.
The estimated flight time from Lagos to Praia, Cape Verde is 18 hours, 20 minutes and from Abuja, it is 17 hours, 5 minutes.
The Cape Verdean Escudo is the official currency used in Cape Verde. Visitors can exchange their foreign currency at various banks and exchange outlets in the country.
The official language of Cape Verde is Portuguese. But the unofficial one, which is spoken by most ( if not all) is the Cape Verdean Creole, which is also known as kabuverdianu or simply called Creole or Kriolu.
Cape Verde’s subtropical climate makes year-round travel pleasant and enjoyable. August is the hottest month in Cape Verde, and the coldest is January.
Fogo, Sal, Palmeira and Santa Maria are facinating places in Cape Verde Tourists can visit.
While Cape Verde is home to diverse religious demography, Christianity is currently the religion practised by a vast majority of Cape Verde’s population.
Visitors can move around in Cape Verde with minibuses, taxis, boats and planes.
Canja, catchupa, morreia and percebes are some of the dishes tourists can enjoy while in Cape Verde.
The Time zone in Cape Verde is (GMT-1), which puts Nigeria two hours ahead in time.
The power and socket plug used in Cape Verde are of Type C and F. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Cape Verde is a small country and very difficult to spot on a world map, but the country has a lot to offer. Each island serves a different set of attraction and reasons to visit the region.
COOK ISLANDS
The Cook Islands is a nation in the South Pacific, with political links to New Zealand. Its 15 islands are scattered over a vast area. The largest island, Rarotonga, is home to rugged mountains and Avarua, the national capital. To the north, Aitutaki Island has a vast lagoon encircled by coral reefs and small, sandy islets. The country is renowned for its many snorkeling and scuba-diving sites.
DO I NEED A PERMIT TO TRAVEL TO THE COOK ISLANDS?
No. All visitors wishing to visit the Cook Islands will be issued a visitors permit on arrival into the Cook Islands, provided they meet the following entry requirements:
All international passport holders must have a passport valid for a period of at least 6 months beyond their intended period of stay in the Cook Islands.
All New Zealand passport holders are allowed stay of up to 90 days in the Cook Islands. All other international passport holders are eligible for a stay of up to 31 days.
You must have evidence of a valid outbound ticket or return ticket to your port of origin.
Languages
WHAT ARE THE OFFICIAL LANGUAGES OF THE COOK ISLANDS?
The official languages of the Cook Islands are Cook Islands Maori and English. English is widely spoken on the island of Rarotonga. While Cook Islands Maori is predominantly used in the outer islands (Pa Enua) of the Cook Islands.
AIRLINES
Hawaiian AirlinesHawaiian Airlines
Air New ZealandAir New Zealand
Singapore AirlinesSingapore Airlines
JetstarJetstar
Air TahitiAir Tahiti
Fiji
Stay Duration: 120 days
Fiji, a country in the South Pacific, is an archipelago of more than 300 islands. It’s famed for rugged landscapes, palm-lined beaches and coral reefs with clear lagoons. Its major islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, contain most of the population. Viti Levu is home to the capital, Suva, a port city with British colonial architecture. The Fiji Museum, in the Victorian-era Thurston Gardens, has ethnographic exhibits.
Entry Requirements
The visa policy in Fiji permits Nigerians to visit without the need for a visa for up to 120 days.
Tourists who want to stay beyond the 120-day validity period can apply for a visa extension at the immigration department for a fee.
Intending visitors must have a passport valid for six months from the date of arrival in Fiji. It is recommended that this passport has at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamp.
Tourists are required to have a return or onward ticket and proof of enough funds to spend during their stay in the country.
Requisite fee ($F98) will also be requested for during immigration clearance. This fee is not required if visitors are visiting for medical treatments or are yacht owners, because yacht owners or members of a crew of a carrier will have paid for the permit before arrival.
Tourists travelling to Fiji must provide proof of a confirmed means of accommodation for their entire stay in Fiji. This could be in the form of a sponsor letter from a host living in the country or a hotel reservation.
Fiji has listed a number of countries that cannot bring in pet and Nigeria is one of them.
Persons under the age of 18 and travelling without a parent or guardian must present a copy of their birth certificate and a parental consent form. This form must be duly completed and signed by the parent or guardian.
Prospective visitors hoping to travel to Fiji can do so from any international airport in Nigeria. There are international airports in Lagos and Abuja.
Emirates Airline, Fiji Airways and Qatar Airways are some of the carriers that fly from Nigeria to Fiji.
The estimated flight duration from Lagos to Suva, Fiji is 1 day, 8 hours and from Abuja, it is 1 day, 12 hours.
Though others (Islam and Hinduism) exist, Christianity is the dominant religion in Fiji.
Fiji has a warm and tropical climate all year round. The best time to visit fiji is from mid-October to mid-November when prices are fair, and the beaches and tourists sites are packed with fewer crowds. This is also when the weather conditions are dry, calm and enjoyably warm.
Fiji’s numerous natural beauties and endowments put it out as a great place for tourists and visitors looking to experience the richness of nature and to discover new cultures.
There are three official languages in Fiji, which are English, Fijian and Hindi.
The Fijian dollar is the official currency of Fiji. ATMs can easily be found in major parts of Fiji and credit/debit cards are accepted by many business outlets in Fiji. Visitors can change their foreign currency at banks and various exchange outlets.
Popular Fiji dishes tourists can try while in the country are kokoda, rourou, lovo, etc.
Fiji uses the Fiji Standard Time (GMT+12), which puts Fiji eleven hours ahead of Nigeria.
Power sockets and plugs used in Fiji are of type I. The standard supply voltage is 240 V, with a standard frequency of 50 Hz.
A tourist in Fiji spends an average of FJD$360 per day.
Visitors are expected to be courteous and conscious of existing rules and customs as they go about their tourism-related activities.
Dominica
Stay Duration: 180 days
Dominica is a mountainous Caribbean island nation with natural hot springs and tropical rainforests. Morne Trois Pitons National Park is home to the volcanically heated, steam-covered Boiling Lake. The park also encompasses sulphur vents, the 65m-tall Trafalgar Falls and narrow Titou Gorge. To the west is Dominica’s capital, Roseau, with colorful timber houses and botanic gardens.
Entry Requirements
For a duration of 180 days, Nigerians can visit Dominica without a visa.
A passport valid for at least six (6) months from the expected date of entry into Dominica, is also a basic requirement. The passport should have at least two blank pages for visa stamping.
Tourists are required to have a return or onward ticket and proof of enough funds to spend during their stay in Dominica.
A detailed printed itinerary of your time in Dominica and a confirmation of accommodation during the stay are needed.
An airport tax of USD 21 is levied on Nigerians when exiting Dominica.
Intending visitors can get to Dominica from any international airport in Nigeria. These international airports can be found in Lagos and Abuja.
Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways and Air Cote D’Ivoire are some of the carriers that fly from Nigeria to Dominica.
The estimated flight time from Lagos to Roseau, Dominica is 23 hours, 55 minutes and 1 day from Mombasa.
The official and most spoken language in Dominica is English. Some regions in Dominica speak a dialect called Kokoy.
Christianity is the prominent religion in Dominica. They consist majorly of Roman Catholics and Protestants. Islam, Buddhism, Baha’i, Hinduism make up the minority.
The Eastern Caribbean dollar is the official currency in Dominica. Tourists can exchange their foreign currencies at banks and other exchange outlets in the country.
As you travel to Dominica, be ready to spend on average between $60-$200 per day as a tourist.
Dominica has a tropical climate. It is usually hot and humid all year round, with a relatively cool and dry season from January to mid-April and a hot, humid and rainy season from mid-June to mid-November.
Some of the special delicacies tourists can try while in Dominica include manicou, sorrel, codfish sandwich and rum.
Transportation in Dominica can be facilitated by taxis, car rentals and buses.
Dominica uses the Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4) which puts Nigeria 5 hours ahead of Dominica.
The best time to visit Dominica is from March to May when the peak season rush trickles out of the city.
Type D and G are the power and socket plug types used in Dominica. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Tourists are advised to follow the instructions of local authorities and also monitor local news broadcasts while in the country.
Haiti
Stay Duration: 90 days
Haiti is a Caribbean country that shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic to its east. Though it’s still recovering from a 2010 earthquake, many of Haiti’s landmarks dating to the early 19th century remain intact. These include Citadelle la Ferrière, a mountaintop fortress, and the nearby ruins of Sans-Souci Palace, the baroque former royal home of King Henry I.
Entry Requirements
Nigerians citizens can visit Haiti for a period of 90 days without a visa.
Visitors who desire to stay longer than the 90-day period are to apply and pay for an extension at the immigration department in Haiti
Intending visitors are required to have a passport valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond the date of their arrival in Haiti.
All Nigerians travelling to Haiti must pay a tourist fee set at $10.00 on arrival at the airport.
Visitors are required to provide proof they have sufficient funds to cover their entire stay in Haiti. An onward or return ticket is also necessary, as well as proof of a confirmed means of accommodation for the stay in Haiti.
Nigerians visiting Haiti with pets must have a veterinary health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination.
On entry into Haiti, tourists with amounts exceeding $10,000 will have to declare it on arrival.
Although there are no direct flights from Nigeria to Haiti, intending visitors can get to Haiti from international airports in Nigeria. There are international airports in Lagos and Abuja.
Virgin Atlantic, Delta, Air France, British Airways and RwandAir are some of the carriers that fly from Nigeria to Haiti.
Christianity, precisely Roman Catholicism, is the official religion of Haiti, with about 80% of the entire population practising it. However, a large majority of Haitians believe in and practice at least one aspect of voodoo.
The estimated flight duration from Lagos to Port-au-Prince, Haiti is 21 hours, 4 minutes and from Abuja, it is 1 day, 4 hours.
The official currency of Haiti is the Haitian Gourde, although the USD is also widely accepted. Visitors can exchange their foreign currency at various banks and exchange outlets in the country.
Tourists are advised to budget between $60-$75 to spend per day while in Haiti.
The Haitian Creole (Kreyòl) and French are the official languages of Haiti.
Haiti has a hot and humid tropical climate. The north wind brings fog and drizzle, which interrupt Haiti’s dry season from November to January. But from February to May, the weather is very wet. Northeast trade winds bring rains during the wet season.
November to March is the best time to visit Haiti because the temperatures are much cooler and perfect for relaxing in the beaches.
Some of the delicacies tourists can enjoy in Haiti include poulet aux noix (chicken and cashew nuts), mayi moulen ak sòs pwa, poul an sòs (cornmeal with beans and stewed chicken), griyo (fried pork), lanbi an sòs lanbi kreyol (conch in creole sauce), lanbi boukannen and woma boukannen (grilled conch and lobster).
The hurricane season in Haiti lasts from June to the end of November; tourists are advised to plan their trip cautiously.
Haiti uses the Eastern Daylight Time (GMT- 4), which means Nigeria is five hours ahead in time.
The power and socket plug used in Haiti are of Type A and B. The standard voltage is 110 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz.
Movement in Haiti is possible with buses, taxis and car rentals.
Mauritius
Stay Duration: 14 days
Mauritius, an Indian Ocean island nation, is known for its beaches, lagoons and reefs. The mountainous interior includes Black River Gorges National Park, with rainforests, waterfalls, hiking trails and wildlife like the flying fox. Capital Port Louis has sites such as the Champs de Mars horse track, Eureka plantation house and 18th-century Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens
Entry Requirements
Nigerians hoping to travel to Mauritius can get a visa on arrival into the country.
This visa on arrival permits Nigerians to stay for a duration of 14 days.
Prospective visitors must have a passport valid for at least 6 months at the time of entry into Mauritius. The passport should have at least one blank page for visa stamping.
Tourists are required to have a return or onward ticket and proof of enough funds to spend during their stay in Mauritius.
Confirmation of accommodation during their stay in Mauritius is also required.
Nigerians importing and exporting the local currency (Mauritian Rupee) and foreign currencies which amounts exceed MUR 500,000 or equivalent in foreign currencies must be declared before entry into the country.
Intending visitors can get to Mauritius from any international airport in Nigeria. There are international airports in Lagos and Abuja.
Kenya Airways, British Airways, EgyptAir and Air Mauritius are some of the carriers that fly from Nigeria to Mauritius.
The estimated flight duration from Lagos to Port Louis, Mauritius is 11 hours, 30 minutes and from Abuja, it is 19 hours, 40 minutes.
Mauritius has a mild tropical maritime climate throughout the year. The country has two seasons, which are a warm humid summer from November to April and a relatively cool dry winter from June to September, which is the best time to travel.
Mauritius is a multilingual country with no official language. Citizens speak various languages ranging from English, French, Mauritian Creole, French-based Creole, and ethnic languages such as Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Marathi, Urdu and Tamil or Mandarin.
The Mauritian Rupee is the official and only currency used in Mauritius. Visitors can exchange their foreign currencies at various bank and exchange outlets in the country.
In Mauritius, Hinduism is the major religion with about half of the entire population practising the religion. Christianity, Islam Buddhism are other religions present in the country.
Popular delicacies in Mauritius are dholl pori, dim sum, daube de poulet and bol renverse.
Tourists are advised to budget about $68 for daily expenses for their stay in Mauritius.
In Mauritius, the power plugs and sockets are of type C and G. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Mauritius uses Mauritius Standard Time (GMT+4). which puts Nigeria 3 hours behind in time.
Transportation in Mauritius can be done through buses, car rentals, taxis, trains etc.
Tourists are advised to follow the instructions of local authorities and also monitor local news broadcasts while in the country.
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Stay Duration: 90 days
Saint Kitts and Nevis is a dual-island nation situated between the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. It’s known for cloud-shrouded mountains and beaches. Many of its former sugar plantations are now inns or atmospheric ruins. The larger of the 2 islands, Saint Kitts, is dominated by the dormant Mount Liamuiga volcano, home to a crater lake, green vervet monkeys and rainforest crisscrossed with hiking trails.
Entry Requirements
Nigerians visiting Saint Kitts and Nevis can stay for a period of 90 days visa free.
Nigerians visiting Saint Kitts and Nevis require a passport valid for six months and must carry blank spaces for stamps.
Nigerians visiting Saint Kitts and Nevis should have sufficient money to cover for the length of their visit.
Visitors are also required to have their return tickets and all document relevant to their onward reservations.
Visitors interested in extending their stay are expected to contact the Ministry Of Finance.
Travelling to Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis from Lagos will require a stopover in Atlanta, USA.
Nigerians visiting Saint Kitts and Nevis with pets must have an import permit, veterinary certificate and proof of rabies vaccination.
Nigerians visiting Saint Kitts and Nevis must check for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap ), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza vaccination.
Connecting flights between Lagos and Saint Kitts and Nevis typically lasts for about 10 hours.
While Saint Kitts and Nevis is home to a diverse religious demography, Christianity is currently the religion practiced by a vast majority of Saint Kitts and Nevis population.
The exchange rate between the Nigerian Naira and the East Caribbean Dollar is currently at 1 NGN = 0.0075 XCD.
Because the time zone currently in use in Saint Kitts and Nevis is the Atlantic Standard Time ( GMT-4 ), Saint Kitts and Nevis is 5 hours ahead of Nigeria.
Getting around in Saint Kitts and Nevis is possible with the various public means of transportation available, this includes buses, (fares usually cost between cost EC$2.50 to EC$5), taxis, ferries and car rentals.
Saint Kitts and Nevis uses a type D and G adapter for visitors travelling with chargeable devices.
The climate in St.Kitts and Nevis is tropical, hot and humid all year round, with a relatively cool, dry season from January to mid-April and a hot, humid and rainy season from mid-June to mid-November.
The best time to visit St.Kitts and Nevis is in May and June, when hotels lower their rates to lure in travelers and the winter crowds thin out.
English is the official language spoken in Saint Kitts and Nevis.
Vanuatu
Stay Duration: 30 days
Vanuatu is a South Pacific Ocean nation made up of roughly 80 islands that stretch 1,300 kilometers. The islands offer scuba diving at coral reefs, underwater caverns and wrecks such as the WWII-era troopship SS President Coolidge. Harborside Port Vila, the nation’s capital and economic center, is on the island of Efate. The city is home to the Vanuatu National Museum, which explores the nation’s Melanesian culture.
Entry Requirements
The Government of Vanuatu allows nationals of Nigeria to visit their country for a duration of 30 days without a visa.
Citizens of Nigeria who wish to stay longer than the 30-day validity period are to apply and pay for an extension at the Offices of Immigration in Vanuatu.
Intending visitors are required to have a passport valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond their date of arrival into Vanuatu. The passport should have at least two blank pages for visa stamping.
Nigerians travelling to Vanuatu must provide proof of a confirmed means of accommodation for their entire stay in Vanuatu. This could be in the form of a sponsor letter from a host living in the country or a hotel reservation.
Nigerians visiting Vanuatu with pets must have an import Permit from the Vanuatu Quarantine & Inspections Service and a health certificate.
A return ticket to Nigeria or onward destination is needed as well.
On entry and exit into Vanuatu, tourists with amounts above VUV 1,000,000 will be required to declare it.
Travellers can get to Vanuatu from international airports in Nigeria. There are international airports in Lagos and Abuja.
Qatar Airways, EgyptAir and Fiji Airways are some of the airlines that fly from Nigeria to Vanuatu.
The estimated flight time from Lagos to Port Vila, Vanuatu is 1 day, 10 hours and from Abuja, it is 1 day, 13 hours.
The constitution of Vanuatu guarantees freedom of religion. Christianity is the dominating religion in Vanuatu. However, other religions like Baha’i faith, Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam are present in the country.
Vanuatu Vatu is the official currency used in Vanuatu. Visitors can various banks and exchange outlets in the country to exchange their foreign currencies.
Mt. Yasur Volcano, Port Villa, Luganville and Mt. Benbow and Mt. Marum are some of the tourist sites in Vanuatu that tourists can visit.
English, French, and Bislama are the three official languages of Vanuatu. However, Bislama, which is an English Creole is the most spoken language in the country.
Vanuatu has a tropical and sub-tropical climate. Summer can be hot, wet and humid, and it is from November to March, while winter is from April to October.
Tourists are advised to budget about $60 to spend on daily expenses while in Vanuatu.
Special delicacies tourists can try while in Vanuatu are Flying fox, Wild pigeon, Santo beef and Poulet fish.
Vanuatu uses Vanuatu Standard Time (GMT+11), which puts Nigeria 10 hours behind in time.
The power and socket plug used in Vanuatu are of Type I. The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Movement in Vanuatu is possible with a pickup truck, bicycle and small boats.
Visitors travelling to Vanuatu are expected to be courteous and conscious of existing rules and customs as they go about their tourism-related activities.
Nigeria’s Problem was Poor Leadership – President Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu has encouraged Nigerians in the U.S. to rise above failure by having a change of mindset for success in all their endeavours in life.
Tinubu who gave the advice at the Presidential Townhall Meeting with Nigerians in the diaspora on Wednesday in New York noted that Nigerians had no reason to be poor.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Townhall Meeting was organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission on the sidelines of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly.
Tinubu, who commended the efforts on out-of-school children, the healthcare programme and the need to eradicate poverty, said Nigeria was a blessed country.
“Sincerely, we don’t have any reason to be poor, we are just poor in some leadership areas.
“That is what I harped on during my campaign. It was a very gruesome campaign but I won the election but if I didn’t thrown myself into it with strong determination and result, I wouldn’t have won.
“There were so many hurdles on my way that would have stopped me. I refused to be stopped, you can do the same as many of you here that are contesting elections”, the President said.
Owolewa, who represents Washington DC, said they have been supporting people to take advantage ot such opportunities for their economic empowerment.
“Those are the opportunities to make investors biggest in New York.
“In my office, we do the talk, we teach our people how to get contract, we teach our people how to get grants.’’ he said.
Also speaking, a Nigerian-American, Olufunmilola Obe, an Inspector working in the New York Police Department, briefed the president on her efforts to make Africa, especially Nigeria proud in her office.
She told Tinubu that she was the coordinator of an African Law Enforcement Organisation, an association within the NYPD, as Vice President.
Obe is the first African ever to be promoted to the rank of an Inspector in the history of NYPD.
NAN reports that the Town Hall Meeting was attended by the Minister of Foreign of Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola and the Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the UN, Amb.Tijjani Muhammad-Bande
Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States, Amb. Uzoma Emenike; Consul General of Nigeria in New York, Amb. Lot Egopija; and Consul General in Atlanta, Amb. Amina Samaila were also in attendance.
Others were: Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom; Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State and Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq of Kwara, among others.
Sir K Oluwo Dares Court and Police goes after Jiboro Family over Their Land
One thing that is synonymous with the ways of the popular Ikorodu based land grabber or speculator, Kamoru Lamina known widely as Sir K Oluwo is brutality, the very wicked and merciless land grabber is a known evil to realtors and land owners all around Lagos and especially in the Ikorodu area on the State.
The man whose attitude and way of dealing can best be described as cruel is a regular face in different police formations as well as correctional facilities around the state, his antecedents is the reason the Jiboro family of Ikorodu has been calling on the men of the Nigerian Police Force to quickly come to their aid to forestall evil befalling them over their family land that Sir K Oluwo has set his eyes on.
According to the members of the family, Sir K Oluwo, who is working in conjunction with one Josephine Momoh and one Mukaila a.k.a. Actor are hellbent on taking over the family land somewhere around Sabo area of Ikorodu even when they are not members of the family. Kamoru Lamina was said to have vowed to kill every members of the family except they leave their family land for him.
The family who had petitioned the AIG Zone 2 who ordered that Sir K and his cohort Princess Momoh and Mukaila should not near the land in question or transact any business on about or on the land are surprised that the serial trouble maker is acting in disobedience to both the Police and the the court which had also banned them from the land without being apprehended, knowing he’s a proven menace to the society. And the freedom he has now been using to threaten the lives of members of the family over their inheritance.
It was gathered that Sir K has been going around telling people that he owns part of the land that belongs to the family whereas he’s not in anyway related to them and has now turned to the crisis except he’s given a share of the said land.
The family are thereby using this medium to call on the Inspector-General of Police, the Governor of Lagos State, the AIG Zone 2, the Commissioner of Police Lagos and all well meaning Nigerians to come to their aid to stop the menace of Sir K Oluwo and his gang by begging the necessary agency to wade into the issue.
LASG and FG to Shut 3rd Mainland Bridge for Repairs
To end recurring accidents occasioned by potholes on the 3rd Mainland Bridge, the Federal Government in collaboration with the Lagos State Government will next week commence remedial repair works on bad portions of the bridge.
Specifically, the bridge will be closed on two consecutive Sundays, September 17 and 24, for the remedial works to be carried out by the state Government, through the Lagos Public Works Corporation, LPWC, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Works.
Motorists have continued to lament the bad state of the 3rd bridge, which has potholes on many parts, which have been causing accidents.
While modalities by the state government for the construction of the proposed Fourth Mainland Bridge have reached advanced stage, residents are of the opinion that the Third Mainland Bridge has been overstretched.
Confirming the planned rehabilitation of the 3rd Mainland Bridge to be carried out in phases staring from next week, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Abdulhafiz Toriola, said it will allow for unhindered rehabilitation works as traffic would be diverted during construction to ensure early completion of the work.
Bridge to be shut for 2 consecutive Sundays. Toriola, who announced this, yesterday, added that the work would take place on Sunday 17 and Sunday 24, September, 2023 between the hours of 7.00 am and 7.00 pm each Sunday.
“The proposed works will be strictly executed in two phases with phase one focusing on only the most critical sections on the Iyana-Oworonsoki inward Adeniji Adele/Lagos Island,” he said.
Toriola explained that the palliative works were scheduled for Sundays to minimize inconveniences for motorists.
Consequently, the state government released travel advisory to ensure seamless movement of traffic.
Toriola, therefore, advised motorists to ply the following alternative routes during the rehabilitation works.
Route 1: The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Alapere/Ogudu axis, inwards Lagos Island, will be diverted towards Gbagada-Oshodi Expressway to link Ikorodu Road/Funsho Williams Avenue to access Eko Bridge and Lagos Island.
Route 2: Motorists from Lagos Mainland going through Herbert Macaulay Road (Adekunle axis) inwards Lagos Island via 3rd Mainland Bridge will be diverted towards Murtala Muhammed Way to make use of Carter Bridge to link Lagos Island.
He, therefore, urged motorists to be patient and observe safety measures during the palliative works on the asphalt pavement of the bridge.
He added that Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, officers, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Nigeria police, and other traffic personnel would be on ground to effectively control and manage traffic.
He said: “We assure that despite the traffic impact on the alternative routes, LASTMA will be deployed to minimize inconveniences and ease movement along the affected corridors.
“Various traffic agencies involved, in conjunction with other security and safety personnel to form good synergy, will ensure appropriate traffic management measures aimed at improving the safety and flow of traffic, reducing traffic emissions and utilising traffic artery capacity more effectively throughout the duration of the exercise.”
Meanwhile, motorists plying the ever-busy 11.8km Third Mainland Bridge, Lagos, second longest in Africa decried the poor state of some sections of the bridge.
The bridge starts from the Oworonsoki axis of the Mainland, ending at the Adeniji Adele Interchange axis on Lagos Island.
The potholes are visible on the Oworonsoki to Adekunle section and continue while approaching Adeniji-Adele junction to Sura area of the bridge.
On the flip side of the bridge, the potholes start from Adekunle to Oworonsoki end.
Some of the motorists narrated their daily ordeals on the bridge with a call to the governments for help.
Mr Ade Olabisi, an Uber driver, said: “I started this commercial transportation business two years ago after I lost my job in a private employment as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Most times I run through Ajah and Mainland. Due to the bad spots, I have lost over three tyres within the last six months when I bumped into potholes. But I thank God. It could have been fatal if I was on high speed.
“I beg the Federal and state governments to fix these potholes in the interest of the public and save people from deaths. le deaths.
Another motorist, Mrs Florence Nwosu, who works on the Island, said: “I was on my way to the office one wet morning when my car bumped into one of the potholes. I struggled to maintain balance afterward.
“As I was approaching the Adekunle end my steering gradually became stiff with a suspicious sound coming from the bonnet. Fortunately, I was close to where some Rapid Response Squad, RRS, of the Lagos State Police Command usually stationed.
“I opened the bonnet only to discover that my alternator belt had torn and pulled off from the roller making the steering to be stiff. This was apparently as a result of the car bumping into the pothole. I had to call my mechanic on the Island to come and fix it, while I sought protection with the RRS men as some miscreants appeared from nowhere looking for the owner of the vehicle.
Another motorist, Mr. Ifeanyi Alozie, who is a trader on the Island, said: “Motorists are always on high speed on the bridge despite many potholes. This often results in fatal accidents.
“There was a particular accident that happened right in my front few weeks ago. The owner of the Sport Utility Vehicle, SUV, on top speed ran into one of the potholes and lost control hitting the side railing of the bridge. He also had his air bag ruptured in the process. This is a weekly occurrence on the bridge.
“Governments should ensure provision and maintenance of basic infrastructure like roads and bridges, such as this. We are begging.”
Mr. Mohammed Seidu, a businessman, lamented the poor state of the bridge, expressing his fear and plight while driving on the axis.
His words: “Despite several rehabilitation works there are many bad portions on the bridge which have posed threat to lives. Most of these government officials do drive on this bridge. I wonder why they have decided to ignore it. A stitch in time saves nine, according to a wise saying.”
Ogun CP Visits Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, Commends PCRC’s Role In Combating Crimes
The Commisioner of Police Ogun State, CP Abiodun Alamatu earlier today the 13th of September visited the Ilishan-Remo Ogun State palatial country home of the Real Estate businessman and Group Managing Director of Adron Homes and Properties, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, the Otun-Akile of Remoland.
The visit was to strengthen his bond with leadership of the Police Community Relations Committee PCRC Ogun and South West Chapter.
Aare Adetola, who is the Grand Patron of the South West PCRC, received the crime buster and his men in his home amid pomp. CP Abiodun thanked critical stakeholders, opinion leaders, and the good people of Ogun State for their cooperation since his assumption as Commisioner of Police months ago. Abiodun highlighted that; the success he has recorded was orchestrated by support from people like Aare Adetola, who have supported the state command with basic needs to ensure their combat against crime is won easily making Ogun state safer for all sundry.
“I am excited about this meeting today and also here to thank you for your continued support since I was posted here as CP. It has been a very good experience with the Ogun PCRC and the South West PCRC chapter, which made work easier for me. I am here with this goodwill message and to help me tell them that I will never take their support for granted. I run an open door policy. Without their support, we would not have succeeded in our fight against crime, making the state safe. I thank you especially and appreciate you also.” He disclosed.
The Adron Home boss also thanked CP Abiodun for the courtesy visit and reiterated his commitment for continued support of the police by maintaining a healthy Police and community relationship. He, however, highlighted the need for more reorientation about the police to people and charged the CP to ensure his boys are friendly and cordial while discharging their duties.
“I am most delighted to have you in my country home. It shows how committed you are and how you hold the PCRC in high esteem acknowledging their contribution to the ease of reducing crime. I want to tell you that, on behalf of myself as the National Patron and Grand Patron of South West PCRC and my company Adron Homes, we will continue to support you and remain committed when you need us.”
“I appreciate the great work you are doing and how you are changing the perspective of Police service among the people. I want you to intensify your effort and also ensure your men are more friendly and convivial while discharging their duties. This will further create positive perception about the police and it will boost the confidence people have in them. With you here, I am sure the fight against crime will be won convincingly. I appreciate you once again. Keep the good work.” Aare Adetola divulged.
Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing used the opportunity to thank the IGP, Kayode Egbetokun Psc, for his recent initiative to recruit 20 young Nigerians in each local government throughout the federation to strengthen the number of the Nigeria Police force in community policing nationwide.
IRP: UK Entices Nigerian Teachers with £10,000 Relocation Payment
Sometimes last year, the government of the United Kingdom decided to open its doors to teachers from Nigeria and the rest of the world who are willing to relocate to the county to continue their career. In the information made available the the UK is looking to recruit about 500,000 teachers by 2024, but more than a year into the exercise there seems to be a low response and this has forced the British government to change tactics and that now included the introduction of International Relocation Payment (IRP), for international teachers willing to make the move.
The international relocation payment (IRP) is a single payment of £10,000 which is available to eligible non-UK trainees and teachers of languages and physics.
The payment is designed to cover:
the costs of visas
the immigration health surcharge
other relocation expenses
The IRP offers financial support to teachers and trainees from Nigeria and all over the world who wish to come to train and work in English schools. It will be paid around the end of the teacher’s or trainee’s first term. It will not need to be repaid.
If eligible, trainee teachers can receive both the IRP and a bursary or scholarship.
The IRP is being run as a pilot in the 2023 to 2024 academic year.
Eligibility
To be eligible, teachers or trainees must:
be coming to England to work or train in the 2023 to 2024 academic year
not be already living in the UK
The Get into Teaching website has full details of the eligibility requirements for teachers and trainees.
How the scheme works
The scheme works differently for fee-paying trainees, salaried trainees and teachers.
Trainees on fee-paying courses
Trainees on fee-paying courses do not need to apply for the IRP. Training providers will pay the IRP directly to these trainees along with any bursaries they are entitled to.
Fee-paying trainees should receive the IRP around the end of their first term.
Teachers and salaried trainees who have started their teaching job or salaried teacher training course should apply for the IRP from the Get into Teaching website.
Applications are open from 4 September to 31 October 2023.
Eligible applicants should receive the money by 31 January 2024.
Teachers and trainees who miss this deadline must apply at the next opportunity after the start of their job or course to remain eligible for the IRP.
