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FCT Teachers Rally Over Oyo Abduction, Demand Stronger Security For Schools Nationwide

By
Enyosa Favour
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Teachers under the umbrella of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Wing, on Tuesday staged a solidarity rally in Abuja, calling for improved security for teachers and students and demanding the safe return of victims abducted in different parts of the country.

The peaceful demonstration began at the Federal Ministry of Education headquarters and moved through Area 11, attracting teachers, union leaders, education stakeholders, and supporters. Participants carried placards with messages such as “End The Reign of Fear in Our Schools,” “Teachers Deserve Security, not Fear,” and “Kidnapping Has no Place in Education.”

Held under the theme “United for Education, Together for Our Future,” the rally sought to highlight the growing insecurity affecting schools and learning institutions across Nigeria.

According to reports, at least 82 pupils were abducted between May 13 and May 15 during separate attacks in Oyo and Borno states.

In Borno State, 42 pupils were reportedly kidnapped following attacks on schools in Askira Uba and Chibok Local Government Areas on May 13 and 14.

Similarly, in Oyo State, 40 pupils were abducted on May 15 during coordinated attacks on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, all located in Oriire Local Government Area.

The Oyo incident also resulted in the death of a mathematics teacher, Michael Oyedokun, a motorcyclist, and some security personnel involved in rescue operations.

Speaking during the rally, FCT NUT Chairman, Abdullahi Shafa, said the protest was in line with a directive issued by the union’s national leadership.

“We are acting on the directives of the National Headquarters of this union. They instructed us, in every state of the federation, to embark on a solidarity rally in protest against what has happened to our teachers and students in parts of the country,” he said.

Shafa condemned the killing of the teacher and the persistent attacks on educators and learners, describing the situation as alarming and harmful to the country’s education sector.

“A kidnapped teacher in Oyo State was beheaded without any just cause. This was someone who had dedicated his life to imparting knowledge to students, yet that was the fate he met.

“It is touching, horrifying and devastating that a teacher who has committed himself to ensuring that children receive quality education could be killed in such a manner, all in the name of kidnapping and banditry.”

He added, “It is not good for the system. It is not good for the teaching environment, and it is certainly not good for our children.”

The union leader noted that insecurity has created fear among teachers, especially those working in rural communities where educational services are most needed.

“Teachers do not deserve this kind of treatment. Even those who engage in kidnapping should understand that targeting teachers is unacceptable.

“We are spread across every part of this country. Go to any nook and cranny of Nigeria and you will find teachers there,” he stated.

Shafa further warned that attacks on teachers and students threaten access to education, particularly in underserved areas.

“When you resort to kidnapping teachers, you are effectively denying people in the rural areas access to education. That is why we have come out today to show the government that teachers across Nigeria are unhappy with what is happening,” he said.

Describing the rally as a peaceful one-day action, he urged government authorities to take decisive steps to improve safety in schools.

“Our message to the government is simple: be more proactive. Take adequate care of our students and teachers.

“Provide security for them. Construct perimeter fences around schools and improve educational infrastructure so that both learners and educators can operate in a safe environment,” Shafa appealed.

On possible future actions by the union, he said:

“We do not pray that these incidents continue. We are acting based on directives from our National Headquarters.

“Should the situation persist, the union’s national headquarters will issue further directives. For today, however, we have come out for a peaceful protest.”

The rally ended with participants peacefully marching to submit a letter to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, urging authorities to take urgent measures to secure schools, protect teachers and students, and ensure those responsible for attacks on educational institutions are brought to justice.

ASUU Begins Indefinite Strike At Benue State University: What Are The Key Demands

By
Enyosa Favour
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The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Benue State University (BSU) branch, has commenced an indefinite, total, and comprehensive strike action.

The decision was announced following a congress meeting of the union held on June 1, 2026, and takes immediate effect. According to the union, the action followed years of engagement with the university administration, Governing Council, and Benue State Government over issues affecting staff welfare and university governance.

In a statement signed by the branch chairman, Dr. Ali Sule Ako, and secretary, Prof. Daniel Chile, ASUU-BSU said the strike would continue until significant progress is made and binding agreements are reached on the matters in dispute.

The union stated:
“The Academic Staff Union of Universities, Benue State University Branch (ASUU-BSU), wishes to inform the general public, particularly students, parents, alumni, stakeholders, and friends of Benue State University, that Congress of the Union, at its meeting held on 1 June 2026, resolved to embark on an indefinite, total and comprehensive strike action.

“This decision was reached after years of sustained engagement with the University Administration, the Governing Council, and the Benue State Government on critical welfare and governance issues affecting staff and the University.

“Unfortunately, these efforts have failed to produce meaningful and lasting solutions.”
According to ASUU-BSU, interventions by the ASUU Zone and the National Executive Council (NEC), including a fact-finding mission and engagements with relevant authorities, failed to produce a formal agreement capable of resolving the outstanding issues.

The union noted that despite these interventions, authorities failed to engage through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or Memorandum of Action (MoA) containing clear commitments and implementation timelines.

“Despite these efforts, the Benue State Government, the University Administration and relevant authorities failed to engage the Union through a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or Memorandum of Action (MoA) containing clear commitments and implementation timelines.”

It added:
“Instead, the university administration resorted to isolated and uncoordinated payments without any negotiated framework. These actions neither addressed the underlying issues nor provided a credible roadmap for resolution.”

Key Issues And Outstanding Demands Raised By ASUU-BSU

ASUU-BSU outlined several welfare and governance concerns that it says must be addressed before the strike can be called off.

Non-payment Of Pension And Gratuity

The union lamented that many retired staff members have remained unpaid years after leaving service.

“Many retired staff members have remained unpaid for years after retirement. Some have died without receiving their entitlements, while others continue to face severe hardship despite dedicating their productive years to the service of the University. The Union considers this situation unacceptable and contrary to the principles of fairness and social justice.”

Irregular Pension Remittances

The union also expressed concerns over the contributory pension scheme introduced in 2020.

“The contributory pension scheme introduced in 2020 has been plagued by irregular remittances, particularly regarding employer contributions. The failure of Government to consistently provide counterpart funding has created uncertainty and concern among staff, with no satisfactory resolution in sight.”

Outstanding Wage Award and promotion Arrears

The union disclosed that staff members are owed approximately 22 months of wage award arrears.

“5 months were hurriedly paid after the University Administration became aware of the Union’s move towards industrial action.”

ASUU-BSU stated that lecturers promoted since 2018 have largely been denied the financial benefits attached to their promotions.

Incomplete Salary Adjustment Implementation

Other concerns include the incomplete implementation of the Consequential Adjustment to Academic Salaries Agreement (CATA) and unresolved taxation-related matters affecting staff.

Rejection of Senate-Nominated Deputy Vice-Chancellor

The union strongly criticised the rejection of the Senate-nominated Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Ebute Agaba.
“The Union strongly condemns the rejection of the Senate-nominated candidate for Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Ebute Agaba, without any stated reason.

“The subsequent directive for another election, which produced a different candidate, undermines due process, university autonomy, and democratic governance within the institution.”

Conclusion

ASUU-BSU has maintained that the industrial action will remain in force until meaningful progress is achieved and formal agreements are reached on all outstanding issues.

“Consequently, ASUU-BSU has commenced an indefinite, total and comprehensive strike action, which shall remain in force until substantial progress is made and binding agreements are reached on the issues in dispute.”

The union appealed to the Benue State Government, university management, the Governing Council, students, parents, alumni, and other stakeholders to understand the circumstances that led to the strike and support efforts aimed at achieving a lasting resolution.

“We call on the Benue State Government, the University Administration, the Governing Council, students, parents, alumni, and all stakeholders to appreciate the circumstances that have necessitated this difficult but necessary action and to support efforts toward a lasting resolution.”

Peter Obi Picks Kwankwaso, Atiku Search For Running Mate

By
Enyosa Favour
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The presidential candidate of the NDC, Peter Obi, has announced former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as his running mate for the 2027 presidential election.

Obi made the announcement on Saturday shortly after being officially confirmed as the party’s presidential candidate ahead of the general election.

The development followed the NDC presidential primary, where Obi emerged as the party’s flagbearer.

Both Obi and Kwankwaso recently joined the NDC after exiting the , citing internal disagreements and prolonged legal disputes within the party.

Political observers believe the Obi-Kwankwaso ticket could significantly reshape the 2027 presidential contest by uniting two prominent opposition figures with strong support bases across different regions of the country.

Obi continues to enjoy widespread popularity among young voters and maintains strong support in the South-East and parts of the South-South, while Kwankwaso remains an influential political figure in Kano and across sections of Northern Nigeria through the Kwankwasiyya movement.

Party leaders expressed confidence that the alliance would strengthen the NDC’s chances in the next presidential election, describing the ticket as a strategic partnership capable of attracting broad national support.

Further details of the party’s campaign plans are expected to be unveiled in the coming months as preparations for the 2027 elections gather pace.

Atiku Consults Stakeholders On Vice Presidential Candidate

Meanwhile, the presidential candidate of the , Atiku Abubakar, has begun extensive consultations across the country as he seeks to select a running mate for the 2027 general election.

According to sources close to the campaign, the search for a vice-presidential candidate is ongoing, with no final decision reached.

Atiku secured the ADC presidential ticket after polling 1,855,787 votes during the party’s primary election, defeating former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, who received 509,397 votes, and businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, who scored 180,903 votes.

Since the conclusion of the primary, attention within opposition circles has shifted to the selection of a running mate, a move many political analysts regard as one of the most important strategic decisions facing the campaign.

Sources familiar with the process said Atiku is personally leading consultations with key stakeholders across various political blocs and geopolitical zones in Southern Nigeria.

Rotimi Amaechi and Donald Duke Emerge as Leading Contenders

Among the names reportedly under consideration is Amaechi, who finished second in the ADC primary.

Although Amaechi has publicly denied reports that he was offered the vice-presidential slot, insiders within the opposition coalition said his name remains under active consideration.

Supporters of his candidacy argue that he brings significant political experience, having served two terms as governor of Rivers State, alongside a strong political presence in the South-South region.

However, campaign officials are said to be carefully evaluating his public criticism of the primary process and concerns he raised about the conduct of the election.

Another prominent figure being considered is former Cross River State governor Donald Duke, who joined the ADC in January 2026 after leaving the PDP.

Sources within the campaign described Duke as a respected political figure with a strong administrative record and relatively low negative ratings among Southern voters.

Duke governed Cross River State from 1999 to 2007 and is widely recognised for several developmental initiatives undertaken during his tenure.

Nonetheless, some members of Atiku’s camp have reportedly expressed reservations over Duke’s previous public comments questioning Atiku’s repeated presidential ambitions.

South-East Figures Also Under Consideration

Beyond the South-South, Atiku’s team is also considering potential candidates from the South-East, a region viewed as politically significant due to its strong voter mobilisation history.

Sources indicated that consultations involving prominent South-East political figures are ongoing.

One of the names reportedly attracting attention is former Imo State governor Emeka Ihedioha.

Ihedioha, whose governorship tenure ended following a Supreme Court ruling in 2020, is believed to retain considerable goodwill across the South-East and is viewed by some within the campaign as a candidate who could energise voters in the region while presenting limited political risks nationally.

The search for a running mate follows a pattern established in Atiku’s previous presidential campaigns. In 2019, he selected Peter Obi from the South-East as his running mate under the PDP platform, while in 2023 he chose Ifeanyi Okowa from the South-South.

Current indications suggest the ADC candidate is once again focusing on the South-East and South-South zones, with no signs that the South-West is being considered for the vice-presidential position.

The selection process comes as the party continues to manage an ongoing leadership dispute that has been taken to court, adding another layer of complexity to preparations for the 2027 election.

Civil Servants: 5 Retirement Benefits Of Nigerian Civil Servants

By
Enyosa Favour
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The Federal Government has directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to immediately stop the practice of placing civil servants on a compulsory three-month pre-retirement leave, clarifying that no such provision exists in the Public Service Rules (PSR).

The directive was contained in a circular dated May 13, 2026, and signed by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack.

The circular was addressed to ministers, permanent secretaries, heads of government agencies, service chiefs, and other senior public sector officials.

According to the Head of Service, several MDAs have been incorrectly interpreting Public Service Rule 120243 by treating the mandatory three-month notice period before retirement as a leave period, resulting in officers being asked to stop performing their duties ahead of their official retirement dates.

The Office of the Head of Civil Service stated:
“It has come to the attention of this Office that some Ministries, Extra-Ministerial Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have continued to treat the three-month notice period preceding retirement as a mandatory leave period, contrary to the provisions of the extant Public Service Rules (PSR).”

Under Public Service Rule 120243, officers are required to notify the service three months before their retirement date.

“Officers are required to give three months’ notice to retire from Service before the effective date of retirement.

“At the commencement of three months, Officers should proceed immediately on the mandatory one-month pre-retirement workshop/seminar. For the remaining two months, retiring Officers are expected to take necessary measures to put their records straight to facilitate the speedy processing of their retirement benefits,” it said.

The government explained that the rule outlines three separate obligations rather than a leave entitlement.

“A retiring officer must give three months’ notice before their effective date of retirement. This is a notice requirement, not a leave entitlement.
“During the first month of the notice period, officers must attend an approved MDA-mandated pre-retirement programme.

“During the remaining two months, officers are expected to regularise their service records, pension documentation, and other retirement-related matters to facilitate seamless processing of their benefits,” it added.

As a result, all MDAs have been instructed to:
“discontinue the practice of treating the three-month notice period as compulsory leave and compelling officers to vacate duty based on a non-existent provision, ensure that a retiring officer continues to discharge official responsibilities throughout the notice period, except as otherwise approved, facilitate the timely participation of retiring officers in approved pre-retirement seminars and workshops under MDA-approved programmes and ensure prompt processing and reconciliation of all retirement records, pension documentation, and other entitlements within the stipulated period.”

The circular further directed permanent secretaries, directors-general, executive secretaries, chairpersons of statutory agencies, and chief executive officers of government institutions to ensure strict compliance with the directive and communicate it to all staff across the public service.

Key Retirement Benefits Available To Nigerian Federal Civil Servants

Beyond the recent clarification on retirement procedures, federal civil servants are entitled to a number of retirement benefits under Nigeria’s pension framework.

  1. Monthly Pension Payments

    Federal civil servants under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) receive retirement benefits through their Retirement Savings Accounts (RSA), which are funded by contributions from both the employee and the Federal Government during their years of service. These funds provide periodic pension payments after retirement.
  2. Retirement Savings Account (RSA) Benefits

    Upon retirement, eligible civil servants can access their accumulated pension contributions through programmed withdrawals or by purchasing an annuity, depending on the option selected under the Pension Reform Act.
  3. Newly Approved Federal Government Gratuity Scheme

    A major development in 2026 is the approval of a new Exit Benefit Scheme for federal civil servants.
    The Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved a policy granting retiring federal civil servants a gratuity equivalent to 100 per cent of their total annual emolument. The scheme took effect from January 1, 2026, and applies to eligible officers who have served for at least 10 years.
  4. One-Time Lump Sum Retirement Benefit

    Under the newly approved scheme, retirees receive a substantial lump-sum gratuity in addition to their regular pension benefits, providing greater financial security during retirement. The gratuity does not replace existing pension benefits but complements them.
  5. Death and Survivor Benefits

    In cases where a retiree passes away, designated beneficiaries or next of kin may access benefits in line with pension regulations and the provisions of the Retirement Savings Account framework.

Mozambique Says 5 Citizens Killed In ‘Xenophobic Attack’ In South Africa

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Mozambican government has condemned what it described as a xenophobic attack in South Africa that reportedly left five Mozambican citizens dead, adding to growing concerns over a recent wave of anti-immigrant violence targeting foreign nationals in Africa’s most industrialized economy.

Mozambican authorities said they were seeking detailed information from South African officials regarding the circumstances surrounding the deaths and called for a thorough investigation into the incident. The reported killings come amid heightened tensions over immigration in South Africa, where protests and vigilante actions against foreign nationals have intensified in recent months.

The South African government has repeatedly condemned violence against migrants and pledged to prosecute those responsible for attacks on foreign nationals. However, several African governments have expressed concern about the safety of their citizens living in the country.

Earlier this year, countries including Kenya, Malawi, Lesotho, Zimbabwe and Ghana issued warnings advising their citizens in South Africa to remain vigilant following a rise in attacks linked to anti-immigration protests. Mozambique’s President, Daniel Chapo, also held discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and called for calm as tensions escalated.

The unrest has been fueled by public frustration over unemployment, crime and economic hardship, with some South Africans blaming undocumented migrants for increasing pressure on jobs and public services. Migrant-rights organizations argue that foreigners are being unfairly scapegoated for broader economic challenges facing the country.

Groups such as Operation Dudula, which campaigns against illegal immigration, have been accused by critics of contributing to a hostile environment for migrants, though the organization has denied supporting violence. South African authorities have stressed that while citizens have the right to protest, attacks and intimidation against foreign nationals are unacceptable and will be prosecuted.

Recent incidents have prompted diplomatic interventions from several African governments. Nigeria has begun assisting citizens who wish to return home, while Ghana has sought action through regional and continental institutions following reports of attacks on its nationals.

South Africa has experienced periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence over the past two decades, with major incidents recorded in 2008, 2015 and 2019. Human rights groups have warned that the latest tensions risk triggering another cycle of attacks unless authorities act swiftly to protect vulnerable communities and address the underlying causes of anti-immigrant sentiment.

Mozambique said it expects South African authorities to ensure justice for the victims and guarantee the safety of foreign nationals residing in the country. As investigations continue, regional leaders are closely monitoring the situation amid fears that further violence could strain relations between neighboring states and undermine efforts to promote regional integration and cooperation.

NLC Rejects Proposed N100,000 Minimum Wage, Says Workers Need More To Cope With Economic Hardship

By
Enyosa Favour
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The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected the proposed N100,000 national minimum wage being considered by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), arguing that the amount falls short of what Nigerian workers need to survive under current economic conditions.

The position was made known by the NLC spokesperson, Benson Upah, during an interview with The PUNCH on Sunday.

His comments followed remarks by the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who revealed that state governors were considering a new minimum wage benchmark of N100,000.

Speaking during the Sallah homage to President Bola Tinubu in Lagos, AbdulRazaq said governors were already engaging with the Federal Government and organised labour to develop a wage structure that balances workers’ welfare with fiscal sustainability.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, the governor explained that the proposal was influenced by rising inflation, increasing living expenses, and the growing financial pressure on Nigerian workers.

Responding to the proposal, Upah acknowledged the governors’ efforts but maintained that the suggested amount was inadequate when measured against current economic realities.

“We consider it thoughtful of the Kwara State Governor for proposing this, but certainly, N100,000 falls far below or behind the realistic figure,” he said.

The labour leader pointed to several economic challenges, including the depreciation of the naira, persistent inflation, higher electricity tariffs, rising petrol prices, reduced purchasing power, and the impact of recent tax measures, as reasons workers require a significantly higher wage.

“Given the realities around the exchange rate, inflation, raised tariffs, surge in the pump price of petrol and associated costs, decline in the purchasing power of the average worker, effects of the new regime of taxes on our cost of living, the realistic figure, subject to status quo maintenance, would be N1m,” he stated.

Upah further argued that increased government revenue should make improved worker compensation achievable.

“In light of the earnings by governments, this should not be a big issue.

“Check what is being shared at FAAC. The windfall from the Middle East war has put over N5tn in the treasury. Though this is temporary, it is nonetheless very good for governments,” he added.

The NLC spokesman also stressed the importance of investing in the nation’s workforce, describing workers as the backbone of economic growth and national development.

“Finally, please note that the greatest asset of any nation is its workforce,” he said.

The debate over minimum wage has intensified amid worsening economic conditions following the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira by the Federal Government.

In July 2024, the Federal Government approved a new national minimum wage of N70,000 after extensive negotiations with organised labour.

Before the agreement was reached, labour unions had pushed for a much higher wage, arguing that inflation had significantly eroded workers’ earnings and purchasing power.

Although the government initially proposed lower figures, negotiations eventually led to the adoption of the N70,000 minimum wage, replacing the previous N30,000 benchmark introduced in 2019.

However, labour leaders have continued to insist that the current wage structure is insufficient due to persistent inflation and the rising cost of living.

Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has continued to indicate elevated food and headline inflation rates, leaving many workers struggling to meet basic household needs despite the wage increase.

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has yet to formally submit a proposal on a revised minimum wage framework to either the Federal Government or organised labour.

NUT Stages Nationwide Protests Of Abducted Oyo Teachers And Pupils

By
Enyosa Favour
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The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) on Tuesday intensified its campaign for the rescue of teachers and pupils abducted in Oyo State, organising protest rallies across several states of the federation.

The demonstrations came a day after civil society organisations held a peaceful protest in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, demanding urgent government intervention to secure the release of the victims, who remain in captivity.

Teachers across the country used the rallies to draw attention to growing security concerns within the education sector and to call for stronger measures to protect both educators and students.

Teachers Rally In Ibadan

The protest in Ibadan began at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Secretariat located in the American Quarter area of the city, where union leaders addressed members on the purpose of the demonstration.

Following the briefing, the teachers embarked on a peaceful march through major parts of the city, carrying placards and banners with messages calling for the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils.

Participants also sang solidarity songs and used public address systems to engage residents, explaining the reasons behind the protest and the urgency of the situation.

Union leaders stressed that the rally was not intended to cause disruption or confrontation but was aimed at drawing national attention to the plight of the victims and urging authorities to act swiftly.

According to the union, the demonstration was an appeal to the conscience of the nation, the responsibility of government, and the constitutional obligation of security agencies to safeguard lives and property.

Plateau Teachers Demand Immediate Rescue

In Plateau State, members of the NUT joined the nationwide protest, calling for the immediate rescue of the abducted teachers and pupils.

Addressing protesters in Jos, Plateau State NUT Chairman, Elisha Ayimani, described the increasing incidence of school-related kidnappings as a serious threat to education and national development.

He urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward securing the release of the victims and restoring confidence in the safety of schools across the country.

Ayimani maintained that the union would continue its industrial action until the abducted teachers and pupils are safely reunited with their families.

The protesters marched from the Old Airport Roundabout to the New Government House in Little Rayfield, where they planned to present a formal letter to Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

NUT Insists On Safety Of Teachers And Students

The union reiterated that the safety of teachers and students must remain a top priority for government at all levels.

According to NUT leaders, the continued abduction of schoolchildren and education workers threatens teaching, learning, and overall confidence in the country’s education system.

The union said it would continue to press for stronger security measures and sustained efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims while advocating safer learning environments nationwide.

At Least 13 People Dead In Russian Attack On Cities Across Ukraine

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Russia launched one of its largest aerial assaults on Ukraine overnight, killing at least 13 people and injuring more than 100 others in coordinated drone and missile strikes that hit several major cities, Ukrainian authorities said on Tuesday. The attack came after days of warnings from Ukrainian officials that Moscow was preparing a major escalation.

According to Ukraine’s Air Force, Russia fired 656 drones and 73 missiles during the overnight barrage, targeting Kyiv, Dnipro, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia and other regions. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 602 drones and 40 missiles, but dozens of projectiles penetrated defenses and struck their targets.

The deadliest strike occurred in the eastern city of Dnipro, where nine people were killed, including a young child and an emergency responder. At least 36 others were wounded after missiles and drones slammed into residential neighborhoods and civilian infrastructure. Local authorities said rescue workers were still searching damaged buildings for survivors.

In the capital, Kyiv, four people were killed when a missile strike caused part of a 24-storey apartment building to collapse. More than 60 residents were injured, including children, while emergency crews worked through the night to rescue people trapped beneath the rubble. Large fires broke out in several districts, and thousands of residents sought shelter in metro stations as air-raid sirens sounded across the city.

Explosions were also reported in Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia, where residential buildings, public facilities and infrastructure sustained damage. Ukrainian officials described the attack as a deliberate attempt to overwhelm the country’s air-defense network through the simultaneous use of large numbers of drones and missiles.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said intelligence services had warned of a possible large-scale Russian strike days before the attack. Following the bombardment, he renewed calls on Western allies to provide additional air-defense systems, particularly Patriot missile batteries, warning that Ukraine remains vulnerable to ballistic and hypersonic missile attacks.

Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned the strikes and said they demonstrated that Moscow remained committed to military escalation despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the war. He argued that the scale of the attack showed Russia was seeking to increase pressure on Ukraine both militarily and psychologically.

Russia’s Defence Ministry said the strikes targeted military command centers, defense-industrial facilities and other military infrastructure. Moscow has repeatedly denied intentionally targeting civilians, although Ukrainian authorities reported significant damage to apartment blocks, schools and other civilian sites.

The assault follows weeks of intensified hostilities between the two countries. Ukraine has stepped up long-range drone attacks against Russian military and energy facilities, while Russia has responded with increasingly large missile and drone barrages against Ukrainian cities. Recent Ukrainian strikes have targeted oil refineries and energy infrastructure deep inside Russian territory, underscoring the widening scope of the conflict.

The latest attack has renewed concerns among Ukraine’s allies that the war is entering another period of intensified violence. With civilian casualties mounting and diplomatic efforts producing little progress, analysts warn that both sides appear to be preparing for a prolonged phase of confrontation rather than a negotiated settlement.

Why Is US Cutting Visa Processing Centres In Africa From Nearly 50 To 20

By
Enyosa Favour
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0

The United States government has announced plans to significantly reduce the number of embassies and consulates in Africa that process visa applications, a move that could reshape how Africans apply for US visas.

According to reports by the Associated Press (AP), nearly 50 US embassies and consulates across the continent currently handle visa applications. However, that number is expected to drop to just 20 designated processing hubs in the coming weeks.

The decision was communicated to US diplomats, including consular chiefs, during a conference call held last Friday. The directive was approved by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and is expected to take effect in June, although an official implementation date has not yet been announced.

Under the new arrangement, the 20 hubs that will continue processing all visa categories are located in Abidjan (Ivory Coast), Accra (Ghana), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Cape Town and Johannesburg (South Africa), Dakar (Senegal), Dar-es-Salaam (Tanzania), Djibouti, Kampala (Uganda), Kigali (Rwanda), Kinshasa (DR Congo), Lagos (Nigeria), Lome (Togo), Luanda (Angola), Malabo (Equatorial Guinea), Monrovia (Liberia), Nairobi (Kenya), Port Louis (Mauritius), Praia (Cape Verde), and Yaounde (Cameroon).

The move comes six months after the Donald Trump administration recalled ambassadors from more than two dozen countries, including Nigeria, with Africa emerging as the most affected region.

What Are The Reasons For The Reduction Of Visa Processing Centers In Africa

According to internal State Department documents and US officials familiar with the decision, the move is part of the Trump administration’s broader strategy to tighten immigration controls and strengthen visa screening procedures. Some African nationals, including Nigerians, already face the possibility of paying visa bonds of up to $15,000 for certain B1/B2 visa applications, while several African countries remain under partial US travel restrictions.

The planned changes are expected to have a significant impact on visa applicants, particularly those living in countries that will no longer process routine visa applications, as they may now be required to travel to another country to complete their applications.

The administration has repeatedly stated that it wants to reduce both immigrant and non-immigrant visa issuance while addressing concerns about visa overstays by travellers who enter the United States legally but remain beyond the duration of their visas.

US officials also indicated that the consolidation is intended to centralise visa operations in selected regional hubs, allowing resources, personnel, and security screening processes to be concentrated in fewer locations. The State Department said it continually reviews overseas operations to ensure taxpayer resources are deployed efficiently and in line with US national interests.

Another factor behind the decision is the administration’s ongoing effort to strengthen security vetting and background checks for visa applicants. The State Department said the visa process must maintain “rigorous standards of security screening and vetting” while aligning operational capacity with national priorities.

The move also follows broader reductions in staffing at US embassies and consulates worldwide, with the administration seeking to streamline diplomatic operations and reduce operational costs.

While visa services will be scaled back in many African countries, consular sections in non-hub locations are expected to remain open for limited services, including assistance for US citizens, passport renewals, emergency consular support, diplomatic visas, and special national interest cases.

Analysts say the policy could create longer travel distances, additional expenses, and increased waiting times for applicants from countries that lose full visa-processing capabilities. However, US officials maintain that the changes are aimed at improving efficiency, enhancing security oversight, and supporting the administration’s broader immigration objectives.

South Africa Faces World Cup Visa Setback As Minister Seeks Answers

By
Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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South Africa’s preparations for the World Cup suffered a setback after visa issues delayed the national team’s departure to Mexico.

Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie expressed frustration over the situation, saying the country was being “made to look like fools” and calling on the South African Football Association (Safa) to explain how the problem occurred. He also insisted that those responsible should be held accountable.

Safa acknowledged that some players and officials experienced visa-related difficulties but did not provide specific details.

Government Steps In to Resolve Crisis

McKenzie later confirmed that all players had received permission to travel and would leave for Mexico on Monday. South African media described the incident as an administrative error that disrupted the team’s World Cup preparations.

The minister had earlier criticized the situation on social media, calling it unfair to both the players and coaching staff.

In response, Safa said it was working urgently to ensure the team travelled to Mexico City as quickly as possible ahead of the tournament.

Additional Visa Challenges Remain

Reports indicated that efforts were made to secure United States visas for members of the squad and staff. The documents are required because South Africa will play their second World Cup group match against the Czech Republic in Atlanta.

The Department of International Relations was also involved in efforts to resolve the issue.

While all players have now been cleared to travel, McKenzie said visas were still pending for several members of the support staff, including an assistant coach, the team doctor, the head of security and an analyst.

Focus Turns to World Cup Campaign

South Africa, one of 10 African nations participating in the expanded 48-team World Cup, will face Jamaica in a friendly match in Mexico on Friday as part of their final preparations.

Bafana Bafana will then begin their World Cup campaign against hosts Mexico on 11 June.

The team enters the tournament on the back of a disappointing run of results. Their final home friendly ended in a goalless draw against Nicaragua, a match in which they missed a penalty. The result extended South Africa’s winless streak to four matches heading into the competition.

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