US Introduces New Mandatory Passport Requirement for Green Card Lottery Applicants

 The United States has reinstated a mandatory passport requirement for individuals seeking to participate in its Diversity Visa (DV), popularly known as the Green Card Lottery, as part of new measures aimed at strengthening the integrity of the immigration program.

Under the new regulation issued by the U.S. Department of State, all Diversity Visa applicants must provide details of a valid, unexpired passport and upload a scanned copy of the passport's biographical page when submitting their online application. The rule takes effect beginning with the DV-2027 program.

According to U.S. authorities, the policy is intended to reduce fraudulent applications, prevent multiple entries, and improve identity verification during the selection process.

However, certain applicants who qualify under specific exemption categories—such as stateless persons or individuals unable to obtain passports due to restrictions imposed by their governments—may still apply by claiming an exemption in accordance with U.S. immigration regulations.

The passport requirement had previously been introduced in 2019 before being struck down by a federal court in 2022. Its reinstatement marks a significant change for millions of prospective applicants worldwide.

Prospective Diversity Visa applicants are advised to ensure they possess a valid passport before the application period opens to avoid disqualification.

The new rule applies specifically to the U.S. Diversity Visa Lottery and does not introduce new passport requirements for individuals applying for or renewing regular U.S. passports.

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Eight Killed, 26 Rescued as Lagos Shopping Complex Collapses

 

No fewer than eight people, including an infant girl, have been confirmed dead following the collapse of a three-storey shopping complex at Alakija along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway on Thursday.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) said 26 victims were rescued alive, while search and rescue operations remained ongoing amid fears that more people, including shop owners, could still be trapped beneath the rubble.

LASEMA Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, said a multi-agency emergency response involving LASEMA, the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, CRCC Construction Company, and other stakeholders was activated immediately after the incident.

Heavy-duty equipment, including an excavator, was deployed to aid rescue efforts. The agency urged residents to stay away from the scene to allow emergency responders unrestricted access.

Earlier in the operation, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service reported two fatalities and 16 rescued victims before LASEMA's later update confirmed the toll had risen to eight dead and 26 rescued as of 4:20 p.m.

The latest incident comes weeks after a three-storey building under construction collapsed in Lekki Phase 1 on June 5, killing one person and affecting nine others.

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Support Grows for State Police as Governors, Lawmakers, Parties Back Constitutional Amendment

 

Support for the proposed establishment of state police gained significant momentum on Thursday as Speakers of the 36 State Houses of Assembly, state governors, the Labour Party, and the Forum of APC Speakers expressed strong backing for the constitutional amendment recently passed by the Senate. Their endorsements have heightened optimism that the legislation will secure the required approvals to become law.

The wave of support comes less than 24 hours after the Senate passed the Constitution Alteration Bill seeking to establish state police across the federation, marking a major milestone in Nigeria's long-standing efforts to decentralize policing and strengthen the nation's response to escalating security challenges.

Before the bill can become law, it must receive the approval of at least 24 of the 36 State Houses of Assembly before being transmitted to President Bola Tinubu for presidential assent.

Many stakeholders have described the proposed reform as a timely and necessary response to the country's growing security concerns, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence. However, the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has voiced its opposition, questioning the motives behind the initiative and urging Nigerians to reject the proposal.

Among the prominent supporters is Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, who commended the National Assembly for passing the bill, describing it as a landmark achievement in the quest to strengthen Nigeria's security architecture.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, Governor Alia praised lawmakers for advancing what he described as a transformative reform capable of reshaping the nation's security framework.

"The passage of the bill is a courageous and timely step," the governor stated, adding that he has consistently advocated for the establishment of state police as a critical measure to enhance national security, improve public safety, and ensure better protection of lives and property across the country.

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Nigerian Senate Passes State Police Bill, Paving Way for Historic

 Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Senate has passed the State Police Bill 2026, marking a significant milestone in the country's efforts to reform its security architecture. The legislation seeks to establish a dual policing system that allows each of Nigeria's 36 states to create and manage its own police service while retaining the Federal Police Service for national security responsibilities.

The bill was approved on June 24, 2026, following a clause-by-clause consideration by the Senate. Its passage comes after the House of Representatives earlier endorsed the legislation with an overwhelming 289–1 vote, signaling broad legislative support for one of the country's most far-reaching constitutional reforms.

Under the proposed law, the Federal Police Service will remain responsible for matters of national importance, including counter-terrorism, cybercrime, border security, protection of federal institutions, and other national security operations. Meanwhile, State Police Services will be empowered to enforce state laws, maintain public order, prevent and investigate local crimes, and safeguard lives and property within their respective jurisdictions.

A key feature of the bill grants state governors the authority to appoint Commissioners of Police for their states, subject to confirmation by their respective State Houses of Assembly. Governors may also issue lawful policy directives to state police commissioners. However, commissioners are empowered to challenge any directive they consider unlawful through the Nigeria Police Council, providing an additional layer of institutional oversight.

To prevent political interference and abuse of power, the legislation expressly prohibits state police from targeting individuals, political parties, or groups for criticizing the government. The bill also mandates adherence to due process and constitutional provisions in all policing activities.

In a bid to ensure professionalism and accountability nationwide, the National Assembly will establish minimum standards covering recruitment, training, promotions, discipline, vetting procedures, use of force, and operational accountability for all state police formations.

The bill further outlines strict conditions under which the Federal Government may intervene in state policing. Such intervention will only be permitted during exceptional circumstances, including the breakdown of public order, incapacity of a state police service, serious human rights violations, electoral intimidation, or threats to national security. Any federal intervention must receive written authorization from the President and remain subject to Senate oversight.

Supporters of the legislation argue that the reform is a necessary response to Nigeria's growing security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal conflicts, and organized crime. They believe locally controlled police forces will possess a better understanding of their communities, languages, and terrain, enabling faster response times, improved intelligence gathering, and more effective community policing. The reform is also expected to strengthen Nigeria's federal system by granting states greater responsibility over internal security.

Despite widespread support, critics have raised concerns that state police could be exploited by political leaders to intimidate opponents or suppress dissent. They maintain that the success of the new policing structure will depend heavily on the effectiveness of its constitutional safeguards, oversight mechanisms, and accountability measures.

Before becoming law, the constitutional amendment must secure approval from at least 24 of Nigeria's 36 State Houses of Assembly. It will then require presidential assent from President Bola Tinubu.

If eventually enacted, the State Police Bill is expected to represent one of Nigeria's most significant security reforms since independence, with the potential to reshape law enforcement, improve local security operations, and strengthen community-based policing across the federation.

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Pay Your Taxes So Government Can Deliver More Projects, Tinubu Urges Nigerians

    President Bola Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians, particularly residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to fulfill their tax obligations, stressing that increased tax compliance will enable the government to provide more infrastructure and improve public services.

The President made the appeal on Thursday during the commissioning of the Arterial Road N16–Ring Road III Interchange, a major transport project linking the Jahi and Gwarimpa districts of the FCT.

Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Tinubu described infrastructure development as the cornerstone of his administration's Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing that strategic investments in road networks are essential for economic growth and national development.

He noted that the newly completed interchange would significantly ease traffic congestion, reduce travel time, improve security, and enhance connectivity between key districts in the nation's capital.

According to the President, the intersection had long been a major traffic bottleneck, causing hours of gridlock, fuel wastage, and disruptions to business activities. He said the completion of the project marks the end of those challenges and reflects the administration's commitment to delivering tangible benefits to Nigerians.

Tinubu also expressed confidence in Nigeria's future, insisting that the country is not beyond redemption.

"The Jahi-Gwarimpa Interchange is proof that Nigeria is not beyond redemption. With focus, discipline, and political will, we will continue to deliver on our promises, and the FCT is already witnessing that progress," he said.

The President further urged citizens to support government efforts by paying their taxes and statutory levies, noting that improved revenue generation would enable the administration to undertake more developmental projects across the country.

"Pay your taxes and levies so that government can do even more for you," he appealed.

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GOV. ENO UNVEILS GRASSROOTS SECURITY INITIATIVE, ENGAGES 2,272 VILLAGE YOUTH PRESIDENTS

Governor Umo Eno has unveiled a new grassroots security and community engagement initiative, integrating 2,272 Village Youth Presidents across Akwa Ibom State into the state's security architecture to strengthen intelligence gathering and deepen youth participation in governance.

Speaking at a strategic engagement meeting with the youth leaders drawn from villages across the state, Governor Eno described the gathering as a critical step toward building a safer and more prosperous Akwa Ibom.

He said security remains a collective responsibility and reaffirmed his administration's commitment to protecting lives and property through community-based approaches.

"The villages remain the first line of defense in any society. People know one another in their communities, making it easier to identify unusual movements and suspicious activities. That is why we are integrating Village Youth Presidents into our security architecture," the Governor stated.

He explained that the youth leaders will serve as vital links between local communities, traditional institutions, and security agencies, facilitating the flow of intelligence and strengthening vigilance at the grassroots. He, however, warned that the initiative would not shield anyone involved in unlawful activities.

"If you think becoming a Village Youth President will shield you from accountability while engaging in criminal acts, then you are mistaken. This responsibility demands integrity, vigilance, and a genuine commitment to protecting your people," Governor Eno said.

To enhance coordination, the Governor directed all Local Government Chairmen to appoint Security Supervisors in councils where such appointments have not yet been made. These supervisors will coordinate security activities and serve as liaison officers between Village Youth Presidents, Community Watch groups, and security agencies.

Governor Eno also directed security agencies to develop comprehensive training programmes for the youth leaders and integrate them fully into the state's community security framework. In addition, he announced plans to expand the state's Quick Response Force to cover all ten federal constituencies, ensuring faster emergency response across the state.

Introducing a reward system for actionable intelligence, the Governor said:

"We have always said, 'If you see something, say something.' Today, we are taking it a step further: 'If you see something, say something and win something.' Credible information that helps security agencies prevent crime and apprehend criminals will be rewarded."

He charged the Village Youth Presidents to discharge their responsibilities with patriotism, honesty, and dedication. He urged them to work closely with Village Heads, Clan Heads, Paramount Rulers, Local Government Chairmen, and security agencies. He also encouraged them to mobilize residents for civic participation, including the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.

Governor Eno recalled that upon assuming office on May 29, 2023, his administration established the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways to strengthen the state's security architecture. He commended the nation's security agencies for their dedication and expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support of the country's security institutions.

The engagement underscored the government's commitment to leveraging grassroots structures to promote security, community ownership, youth empowerment, and sustainable development under the ARISE Agenda.

The meeting concluded with renewed commitments from the Village Youth Presidents to support government efforts in maintaining peace, safeguarding public infrastructure, and strengthening grassroots intelligence gathering across the state.

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