In a coordinated effort between the Nigeria Police Force and Chinese authorities, a Chinese national wanted on charges of tax fraud has been arrested in Lagos and repatriated to China. The suspect, Chen Gaochong, was apprehended on June 24 following an operation led by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Abuja, prompted by a formal request from the Chinese government.

Mr. Chen is accused by the Peixian Public Security Bureau in Jiangsu Province of issuing falsified Value Added Tax (VAT) invoices totaling 4.97 million renminbi (approximately N1,057,561,330). He allegedly used the names of Linhai Guangyong and Linhai Beilaisi to generate 45 fake VAT invoices issued to Xuzhou Wanfeng Plastic Industry Company between May and August 2017.

Authorities stated that Mr. Chen fled China in November 2019, moving through Hong Kong and Burkina Faso before unlawfully entering Nigeria in 2021. He reportedly avoided renewing his passport to conceal his identity. An arrest warrant was issued in July 2020.

Mr. Chen was handed over to Chinese law enforcement on July 3. Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun affirmed that Nigeria will not serve as a refuge for fugitives, emphasizing the significance of international cooperation in combating cross-border crime. The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to collaborating with international law enforcement agencies and upholding mutual legal assistance obligations.

The Television Content Owners Association (TCOA) successfully fulfilled its 2025 commitments to its members with the annual internal training program, “Trade Secrets Revealed: Industry Leaders Share Their Experiences.” The event, held on July 3, 2025, at the PefTI Multipurpose Hall, proved to be an engaging and informative experience for all attendees.

The program commenced with the national anthem, followed by a welcome address from the association’s First Vice President, Mrs. Moyinoluwa Olutayo. Her remarks effectively set the stage for a day of learning and networking. Mr. Emdee David, the Master of Ceremonies, then introduced the esteemed guest speakers: Chief Mr. Wale Adenuga MFR, Mrs. Ijeoma Onah, and Mr. Olatunbosun Olaegbe. While Otunba Sesan Rufai was regrettably unable to attend, the assembled panel represented a wealth of industry expertise. Interspersed throughout the program were captivating performances by PefTI art students, including live bands and other engaging presentations, adding an element of entertainment to the day’s proceedings.

The core of the event was the keynote session, expertly moderated by Ms. Busola Olugbemileke. Chief Mr. Adenuga, Mrs. Onah, and Mr. Olaegbe shared their personal career journeys, highlighted their contributions to the industry, and openly discussed the challenges they faced. Their collective insights offered valuable and actionable advice to both seasoned professionals and those newer to the content creation landscape.

An interactive Q&A session followed, allowing attendees to delve into pressing issues such as adapting to digital platforms, effective content monetization strategies, and optimal distribution methods. The panelists provided thoughtful responses on topics ranging from production quality and business development to the importance of strategic networking. In response to a question about the relevance of the association’s name, Mr. Olaegbe clarified that the Television Content Owners Association encompasses content across various platforms, emphasizing that “content is life.” This statement resonated deeply with the audience, underscoring the fundamental importance of content creation in the modern media environment.

The session concluded with key takeaways, emphasizing the need to understand target audiences, tailor content accordingly, and advocate for government support to elevate content production standards within Nigeria. The importance of careful platform selection to maximize investment returns was also highlighted.

The TCOA 2025 internal program concluded on a high note, leaving participants feeling inspired and well-informed. A wrap-up session featuring WAP TV correspondents, coupled with light refreshments, provided a fitting end to a successful and impactful event.

Below are some pictures from the Event:

The United States Mission in Nigeria has announced new guidelines effective immediately for applicants seeking F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas. These visas are intended for individuals pursuing academic studies, vocational training, or participating in exchange programs within the United States.

A key change requires all applicants in these categories to adjust the privacy settings on their personal social media accounts to “public.” This measure, announced on the Mission’s official X page on Monday, is intended to complement existing vetting procedures.

According to the consulate, the updated requirement will enhance the verification of applicants’ identities and their admissibility to the United States. This announcement follows the US Department of State’s publication on June 18, 2025, regarding new guidance for vetting social media accounts of F, M, and J visa applicants.

The US government maintains that a visa remains a privilege, not a right.