Home Blog Page 266

Taiwan Plans Recall Vote That Could Shift Parliament Power

By
Ohiomoje Margaret
-
2

Taiwan is set to conduct recall elections next month targeting nearly a quarter of its legislative members, all belonging to the main opposition bloc. This development could potentially return control of parliament to the ruling party, according to the announcement by the electoral body on Friday.

Although Lai Ching-te secured the presidency last year, his Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) lost its grip on the legislative majority. The Kuomintang (KMT), together with the smaller Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), now command the most seats.

Recently, both the KMT and TPP pushed through policies such as deep budget reductions, drawing sharp criticism from the DPP. However, the movement to collect enough signatures to trigger these recall votes was primarily driven by civil organizations.

Currently, the opposition occupies 62 out of the 113 parliamentary seats, leaving the DPP with 51. The recall ballots for 24 KMT legislators have been scheduled for July 26.

The DPP openly backs the recalls and this week released a campaign video urging citizens to vote in favor and “oppose the communists”—an open swipe at China, along with accusations that the opposition has grown dangerously close to Beijing.

The KMT, meanwhile, has rejected the recall efforts, labeling them as a “malicious recall” happening barely months after the most recent general election in January 2024.

“The KMT calls on the people of Taiwan to oppose the green communists and fight against dictatorship, and vote ‘no’,” the party said in a statement after the recall vote was announced, referring to the DPP’s party colours.

The KMT argues that maintaining dialogue with China—which claims Taiwan as part of its territory—is vital to preserving stability and reducing cross-strait tensions.

China has spurned every invitation to talk from Lai, labeling him a “separatist” while simultaneously escalating military activities directed at Taiwan.

Efforts to initiate similar recall motions against DPP lawmakers did not reach the required number of valid signatures.

For any recall to succeed, the count of ‘yes’ votes must surpass ‘no’ votes and must also exceed 25% of registered voters within that district, making voter turnout a decisive factor.

Should the recalls succeed, by-elections will follow later in the year to fill the vacated legislative seats.

Taiwan’s next general and presidential polls are not expected until early 2028.

China Braces For More Floods Amid Torrential Storms

By
Ohiomoje Margaret
-
2

Authorities in central and southern China remain on high alert for potential flash floods as the monsoon season intensifies, bringing with it relentless rainstorms that threaten to disrupt normal life and economic activity.

Emergency red warnings — the first issued this year — were activated late Thursday across several regions including Anhui, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Guizhou, and Guangxi, according to reports from national agencies overseeing water and weather conditions.

Scientists have linked the worsening downpours and floods to climate change, raising concerns for Chinese leaders who face the difficult task of managing outdated flood control systems. The ongoing threat not only displaces large populations but also risks significant damage to the nation’s $2.8 trillion farming industry.

This year’s rainy season arrived sooner than expected, beginning in early June. It is typically followed by blistering heat waves that dry out already soaked fields, drain reservoirs, and cause lasting harm to roadways and essential infrastructure.

In July last year alone, economic losses from weather-related disasters surpassed $10 billion. Even greater damage occurred in 2020, when unusually long rainfall battered the country for more than 60 consecutive days — nearly a month longer than normal.

In southern Hunan on Thursday, torrential rain swelled the Lishui River, pushing water levels over two meters above safe limits. This resulted in the most severe flooding seen in both the upper and lower river regions since 1998.

Footage shared online displayed floodwaters overflowing onto highways, sweeping debris through streets as the swollen river burst its banks.

Further southwest, in the mountainous city of Chongqing, homes were submerged under murky floodwaters. Cars were carried away by strong currents racing through the city, with water levels reportedly nearing the tops of electrical poles.

Rescue teams helped relocate nearly 300 residents from villages and towns in a mountainous area of Chongqing, where daily rainfall reached a staggering 304 millimetres (12 inches). At least one river in the region swelled by 19 metres after runoff from the surrounding hills converged into its stream.

In Guangdong’s Zhaoqing city on Wednesday, floodwaters surged over five metres past warning thresholds, cutting off electricity supplies and surpassing previous records for high water levels.

UK Trade Initiative Maintains 99% Duty-free For Nigerian Products

By
Ohiomoje Margaret
-
2

The United Kingdom has confirmed that Nigeria will maintain duty-free access for 99 per cent of its total exports to the UK market under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme.

This information was revealed in a statement issued on Friday by the Communications Office of the British High Commission.

The DCTS, which was introduced in June 2023, enables Nigeria along with 36 other African nations to export more than 3,000 goods to the UK either duty-free or with reduced tariffs, helping Nigerian enterprises expand and enhance their global competitiveness.

In addition, the UK’s scheme helps to cut import expenses for British companies and provides consumers with a broader selection of cost-effective goods.

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery, remarked on the DCTS, saying, “As one of the UK’s most important partners in Africa, Nigeria stands at the heart of the UK’s global trade ambitions, and we want to strengthen the trade ties between our two great nations and unlock the power of sustainable and transformative growth in Nigeria and across emerging economies.

“A major advantage of the UK’s developing countries trading scheme is the reduction or complete elimination of duty-tariffs on everyday goods such as cashew nuts, cocoa, cotton, plantain, tomatoes, prawns, and sesame. This isn’t just about improved access into the UK market, it’s about building a fairer, freer global trading system that supports economic growth and job creation, both in developing countries and in the UK.”

Montgomery added, “Through the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership, we are continuing to work alongside the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to tackle export challenges and ensure the DCTS is fully leveraged by Nigerian businesses to improve trade growth between our two countries.”

The DCTS enables Nigerian exporters to ship products such as cocoa, yam, tomatoes, plantain, shrimp, and other agricultural goods to the UK with lower tariffs. It also promotes processed and value-added items like cocoa paste, cocoa butter, sesame, palm oil, cashew nuts, cotton clothing, and cocoa paste, supporting Nigeria’s shift from raw material exports.

This trade initiative is part of the UK’s broader strategy to strengthen economic connections globally, with recent trade deals also secured with major economies like India and the United States.

By the close of 2024, the total bilateral trade in goods and services between the UK and Nigeria reached £7.2bn, reflecting a 7.6 per cent decline, or £596m, compared to 2023.

Nigerian T-Jos Achieves A 154-Hour Guinness World Record for The Longest Premium Haircuts Marathon

By
Olaosun Rebecca
-
251

Nigerian barber Joshua Aiyeniro, widely known as T-Jos, has officially completed the Guinness World Records attempt for the longest premium haircuts marathon, reaching an outstanding duration of 154 hours.

The marathon, which spanned seven days, commenced at 10 pm on June 10, 2025, at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja and concluded exactly at 10 pm on Wednesday night.

T-Jos was actively engaged in the challenge for 168 hours, with 14 hours subtracted as rest time, in line with Guinness World Records guidelines that permit one hour of rest for every 12 hours of work.

According to a statement released by Alhaji Gambo Jagindi, head of media and publicity for the planning committee, the extraordinary accomplishment reflects T-Jos’s unwavering commitment, enthusiasm, and determination.

The event attracted high-profile attendees, including the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who was present earlier at the venue to officially launch the countdown to the closing ceremony.

The statement also noted that the governor’s attendance, alongside other distinguished guests, highlighted the importance of T-Jos’s success and its role in encouraging vocational skills and motivating young people.

“T-Jos’s achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a source of inspiration for many. We are proud to have supported him on this journey, and we look forward to seeing the impact his achievement will have on the nation’s youth,” the governor said.

“T-Jos’s record-breaking attempt has captivated audiences worldwide, showcasing the art of barbering and inspiring many.

We congratulate T-Jos on this incredible feat and wish him continued success in his future endeavors,” he added.

FIFA Club World Cup Recap: Messi Magic Lifts Inter Miami

By
Kwaghza Asema Cephas
-
2

Lionel Messi delivered yet again, converting a sublime free kick in the 54th minute to lead Inter Miami CF to a 2-1 victory over FC Porto in a tightly contested Group A match at the FIFA Club World Cup on Thursday afternoon.

Porto took an early lead in the 8th minute through Samu Aghehowa, who converted a penalty after João Mário was fouled in the box by Noah Allen. Although Miami keeper Oscar Ustari got a hand to the shot, it deflected into the net.

Miami responded swiftly after the break. Just 90 seconds into the second half, Marcelo Weigandt delivered a pinpoint cross into the box that Telasco Segovia smashed home past Cláudio Ramos to level the score.

Then came Messi’s moment of brilliance: a perfectly placed free kick into the top-right corner — his 68th career free-kick goal — to secure Miami’s first win of the tournament, and the first-ever victory for a Concacaf team against European opposition in a FIFA club competition.

Despite Porto registering 14 total shots to Miami’s six, only three were on target for the Portuguese side, compared to five for Miami. Ramos finished with three saves, while Ustari made one, building on his standout eight-save performance in the tournament opener.

Atlético Madrid Bounce Back, Send Sounders to Brink

Atlético Madrid revived their Group B hopes with a 3-1 win over Seattle Sounders FC on Thursday, powered by a brilliant brace from Pablo Barrios and a goal from Axel Witsel.

Barrios opened the scoring in the 11th minute, finishing a clever setup by Giuliano Simeone with a powerful strike off the underside of the crossbar. He added his second in the 55th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to volley home after a long throw-in by Marcos Llorente.

Witsel scored just after halftime in the 47th minute, reacting quickest in a goalmouth scramble after Llorente’s volley was parried onto the crossbar by Stefan Frei.

Albert Rusnák pulled one back for Seattle in the 50th minute with a deflected shot, but it wasn’t enough as the Sounders remain winless. Seattle now face elimination — a PSG win or draw against Botafogo later Thursday would officially knock them out.

Botafogo Shock Champions League Holders PSG

Brazilian champions Botafogo pulled off a massive upset, defeating Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in their second Club World Cup group stage match on Thursday night at the Rose Bowl.

Igor Jesus scored the game’s only goal in the 36th minute, outmuscling two defenders and firing past Gianluigi Donnarumma after controlling a long pass from Jefferson Savarino. The goal sent Botafogo’s fans into raptures, with Jesus celebrating in the stands.

PSG, unbeaten since May 3 and having outscored their last three opponents 12-0, struggled to break down Botafogo’s organized defense. Despite dominating possession and registering 16 shots, PSG managed just two on target, compared to Botafogo’s four shots — all on target.

Botafogo head coach Renato Paiva praised his team’s cohesion, saying:
“We beat PSG at their own game — unity, discipline, and teamwork. That’s the lesson we learned from them and used it to overcome them.”

PSG coach Luis Enrique acknowledged his side’s fatigue and Botafogo’s solid defensive shape:
“Every team raises their game against us. We found it difficult to break them down.”

With this win, Botafogo move to the top of the group with six points, while PSG — who were missing Ousmane Dembélé due to injury — must regroup quickly before facing Seattle Sounders on Monday.

The FIFA Club World Cup continues to deliver dramatic moments and landmark results, with MLS and South American clubs now making a powerful statement on the global stage.

President Tinubu Inaugurates Projects In Kaduna

By
Olaosun Rebecca
-
1

President Bola Tinubu praised the swift progress in Kaduna State under Governor Uba Sani’s leadership during a visit on Thursday, where he commissioned several projects. He highlighted the inclusion of N100 billion in the 2025 federal budget for the proposed Kaduna Light Rail.

During his one-day working visit, Tinubu launched a 300-bed specialist hospital, 100 compressed natural gas (CNG) buses for public transport, a new vocational skills and training institute, and the revamped Panteka Market, now recognized as Africa’s largest informal skills hub, hosting over 38,000 artisans.

At a civic reception held at Murtala Square, Mr Tinubu declared Kaduna “a rising star in Nigeria’s development journey,” commending Governor Sani for transforming the state’s focus from insecurity to inclusion.

“From insecurity to inclusion, Kaduna is clearly on the rise. I am pleased to be back in Kaduna State, a place that holds deep connections in my political and democratic journey.

“Kaduna is rising again. We are going to do it together. Peace is the hallmark of development, and I am proud of the peace now reigning in areas like Birnin Gwari. Our administration will continue to back every effort that sustains growth and security.”

In his speech, Governor Sani described Tinubu as “a visionary leader who has redefined national priorities.”

He emphasized major reforms in education and rural development, noting that over 535 schools previously closed due to insecurity have reopened, and more than 500,000 hectares of farmland have been revitalized.

To alleviate economic challenges, Sani announced six months of free rides on the new CNG buses for students, civil servants, and pensioners.

“Our identity is no longer fear, we are defined by productivity, education, and progress,” the governor said.

Mr Sani highlighted the achievements of his administration, stating that 79 roads covering a total of 780 kilometres had been constructed. He also noted the establishment of 62 new secondary schools and the renovation of more than 1,000 classrooms.

In a move to ease the financial burden on students, the state government has implemented a 50 per cent reduction in tuition fees across all its tertiary institutions.

Speaking in a similar spirit of progress, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, outlined significant federal projects ongoing in Kaduna. These include the Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline, which is 72 per cent completed, the Ibadan-Kaduna-Kano railway, the Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan, and the University of Applied Sciences in Kachia.

“These are not just projects, they are symbols of inclusion and renewed national hope,” he said.

Former Vice President Namadi Sambo, who initiated the specialist hospital project during his time as governor in 2009, described its recent completion as “a dream fulfilled,” adding that Kaduna had previously had fewer than 3,000 hospital beds for its population of over six million.

The event drew a high-profile audience, including numerous state governors, the Deputy Senate President, various ministers, and the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmad Bamalli. A large crowd of Kaduna residents also turned out, lining the streets in a strong display of support.

Ukraine and Russia Conduct Latest Prisoner Exchange Under Istanbul Agreement

By
Tosin Onisuuru
-
0

Ukraine and Russia carried out a new exchange of prisoners of war on Thursday, officials from both sides confirmed, marking the latest swap under a framework established in Istanbul.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shared images of the released Ukrainian soldiers, many of whom had been held since the early stages of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. The photos showed the troops smiling and wrapped in the Ukrainian flag, celebrating their return home.

According to Ukraine’s Coordinating Council for Prisoners of War, the soldiers returned in this round were either sick or wounded. Russia’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that its own personnel involved in the exchange would also receive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

While both nations acknowledged the exchange, neither disclosed the number of prisoners involved. Beyond such swaps and the repatriation of remains, negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow have produced limited tangible progress toward ending the conflict.

South African Rand Firms On Ahead of U.S. Fed Rate

By
Kwaghza Asema Cephas
-
0

The South African rand edged higher on Wednesday, buoyed by stable domestic inflation figures and stronger-than-expected retail sales, as global markets turned their attention to the anticipated U.S. Federal Reserve interest rate decision later in the day.

As of 15:11 GMT, the rand was trading at 17.96 to the U.S. dollar, marking a 0.4% gain from Tuesday’s closing level.

The risk-sensitive currency had previously declined by over 1% on Tuesday amid heightened geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran, which prompted investors to seek safe-haven assets. The rand remained under pressure for most of Wednesday before rebounding following positive economic data.

South Africa’s national statistics agency reported that consumer inflation held steady at 2.8% in May, matching economists’ expectations in a Reuters poll and remaining below the South African Reserve Bank’s target range of 3% to 6%.

According to Casey Sprake, economist at Anchor Capital, the inflation data bolsters the argument for a more dovish monetary policy stance at the central bank’s July meeting.

In another boost to sentiment, Statistics South Africa revealed that retail sales for April rose by 5.1% year-on-year—significantly exceeding the 3.1% growth forecast by analysts.

Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar slipped 0.2% against a basket of major currencies, as traders largely anticipated that the Federal Reserve would maintain current interest rates, particularly in light of ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

On the equities front, the Johannesburg Stock Exchange’s Top-40 Index (.JTOPI) closed up by 0.4%.

In the bond market, South Africa’s benchmark 2035 government bond weakened slightly, with the yield rising by one basis point to 10.12%.

U.S. Resumes Student Visa Appointments: What You Should Know

By
Tosin Onisuuru
-
0

After a brief pause in late May, the United States has resumed processing student visa appointments for international applicants. However, the resumption comes with significant changes aimed at tightening vetting procedures, particularly concerning applicants’ online presence.

Below, we explore why the U.S. suspended visa appointments in the first place, the new conditions for resumption, and how prospective students can navigate the updated requirements.

Why the U.S. Resumed Student Visa Appointments

On May 27, 2025, the U.S. Department of State temporarily suspended new F, M, and J visa interview appointments to implement an enhanced vetting system. The government cited national security concerns and the need to expand screening measures for nonimmigrant visa applicants, particularly students and exchange visitors.

By June 18, a directive was issued to all U.S. embassies and consulates to resume interview appointments within five business days. The pause was used to update visa officer guidelines and screening tools, especially related to applicants’ digital footprints and social media activities.

New Conditions for Student Visa Applicants

Mandatory Social Media Access

    One of the most significant changes is that all F, M, and J visa applicants must now make their social media accounts public for inspection. This includes platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, LinkedIn, and others.

    Failure to make these accounts accessible may lead to delays, increased scrutiny, or outright visa denial.

    Expanded Online Screening

    Visa officers are now required to thoroughly vet applicants using:

    Search engines

    Social media platforms

    Online publications

    Specialized databases

    The goal is to flag applicants who exhibit:

    Hostile attitudes toward U.S. institutions or culture

    Support for terrorist organizations

    Antisemitic or extremist content

    This means past comments, posts, likes, and affiliations can now be used as indicators of eligibility.

    Attention to Political Activism

    Students who have been involved in political activism, especially those associated with movements critical of the U.S. or linked to violence, may face additional scrutiny.

    Although free speech is a fundamental value, U.S. consulates are now instructed to assess whether past expressions pose any future risk to public safety or U.S. interests.

    Limited Appointment Availability

    Due to the more time-intensive screening process, many embassies and consulates may reduce the volume of appointments they handle. Priority may be given to:

    Medical exchange participants (such as doctors on J-visas)

    Students applying to U.S. institutions where international enrollment is less than 15%

    This may affect how quickly some students can secure visa interviews, especially in high-demand countries.

    Implications for Prospective Students

    Privacy Concerns

    The requirement to make personal accounts public has raised privacy concerns among applicants. Many students feel this violates personal boundaries and could lead to misinterpretation of past online behavior.

    Longer Processing Times

    Increased vetting means interviews could take longer to schedule, and administrative processing might delay visa approvals, especially close to the start of the academic calendar.

    Digital Footprint Cleanup

    Applicants are now being advised to audit their online presence, ensuring there are no posts that could be misunderstood or deemed offensive by visa officers.

    What Applicants Should Do

    If you’re applying for a U.S. student visa, here are critical steps to take:

    Review Your Social Media: Make all personal accounts public and remove or explain any potentially controversial content.

    Be Transparent: Ensure your digital history aligns with your application. Avoid hiding or deleting accounts during the application process, it could raise red flags.

    Apply Early: Book your interview as soon as appointments open to avoid last-minute delays.

    Stay Updated: Regularly check announcements from your local U.S. embassy or consulate, as appointment procedures may vary by location.

    The resumption of U.S. student visa appointments is a welcome development for many international students, but it comes with new strings attached. In the digital age, what you say online can now influence whether you study abroad.

    Applicants must be proactive, transparent, and strategic as they navigate this new landscape, because now more than ever, your visa approval could depend on your social media profile.

    WHO Releases Guidelines for Managing Sickle Cell Disease During Pregnancy

    By
    Olaosun Rebecca
    -
    3

    The World Health Organization has unveiled its first-ever global guideline for managing Sickle Cell Disease during pregnancy.

    In a statement released on Thursday to mark the 2025 World Sickle Cell Day, the organisation noted that the guideline aims to tackle significant and increasing health risks that could endanger both expectant mothers and their babies.

    The 2025 World Sickle Cell Day, observed globally each year on June 19, is themed: “Global Action, Local Impact: Empowering Communities for Effective Self-Advocacy.”

    Sickle Cell Disease, or SCD, refers to a collection of inherited blood disorders where red blood cells take on abnormal shapes resembling crescents or sickles.

    These misshapen cells can obstruct blood flow, leading to severe anaemia, intense pain episodes, frequent infections, and life-threatening complications such as strokes, sepsis, or organ failure.

    During pregnancy, the health complications tied to SCD may worsen due to increased physical demands for oxygen and nutrients.

    As a result, the global health organisation stated that women living with SCD are “four-to-11-fold” more likely to experience maternal death compared to those without the condition.

    The organization highlighted that women with inherited blood disorders, such as Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), are at higher risk of obstetric complications like pre-eclampsia, and their babies face increased chances of stillbirth, preterm birth, or low birth weight.

    Quoting Dr. Pascale Allotey, Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research and the United Nations Special Programme for Human Reproduction (HRP), the organization stated, “the new guideline is to improve pregnancy outcomes for those affected.

    “With quality health care, women with inherited blood disorders like Sickle Cell Disease can have safe and healthy pregnancies and births.

    “With sickle cell on the rise, more investment is urgently needed to expand access to evidence-based treatments during pregnancy, as well as diagnosis and information about this neglected disease.”

    Allotey noted that approximately 7.7 million people worldwide live with SCD, a number that has risen by over 40 percent since 2000.

    “SCD is estimated to cause more than 375,000 deaths each year. The disease is most prevalent in malaria-endemic regions, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, which accounts for around eight in 10 cases, as well as parts of the Middle East, the Caribbean and South Asia,” Allotey said.

    She further explained that the sickle cell gene is spreading globally due to population migration and increased life expectancy, requiring more maternity care providers to be equipped to manage the condition.

    Allotey mentioned that, until recently, clinical guidance for managing SCD during pregnancy has primarily been based on protocols from high-income countries.

    She added, “WHO’s new guideline aims to provide evidence-based recommendations that are also relevant for low – and middle-income settings, where most cases and deaths from the disease occur.

    “Accordingly, the guideline includes more than 20 recommendations spanning: folic acid and iron supplements, including adjustments for malaria-endemic areas, management of sickle cell crises and pain relief and prevention of infections and blood clots.

    “Others are the use of prophylactic blood transfusions and additional monitoring of the woman and the baby’s health throughout pregnancy.”

    The guideline places strong emphasis on the importance of providing respectful, personalised care tailored to each woman’s specific needs, medical background, and preferences, she noted.

    She further stated that the guideline also emphasises the need to combat stigma and discrimination in healthcare environments, which remain significant obstacles for individuals with Sickle Cell Disease in many parts of the world.

    Dr. Doris Chou, Medical Officer and Lead Author of the guideline, highlighted the importance of early discussions between women with sickle cell disease and experienced healthcare providers regarding their care options during pregnancy.

    Chou stated, “This supports informed decisions about any treatment options to continue or adopt, as well as agree on ways of handling potential complications, so as to optimise outcomes for the woman, her pregnancy and her baby.”

    She added that because of the complex nature of SCD, it is vital to include skilled and knowledgeable professionals in the care team supporting women living with the condition.

    These professionals may include haematologists, midwives, paediatricians, and obstetrician-gynaecologists who specialise in reproductive and newborn health.

    “SCD is a neglected health condition that remains considerably under-funded and under-researched, despite its growing prevalence worldwide.

    “While treatment options are improving for the general population, the guideline underscores the urgent need for more research into the safety and efficacy of SCD treatment for pregnant and breastfeeding women that have historically been excluded from clinical trials,” she said.

    She noted that this release marks the first installment in a new series of WHO guidelines focused on managing non-communicable diseases during pregnancy.

    “Future guidelines will address cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, respiratory diseases, mental health disorders, and substance use.”

    1...265266267...2,672Page 266 of 2,672