News
Nigeria Contributes ₦85 Billion Levy to ECOWAS.
In a significant development for regional cooperation, the Nigerian government has announced the release of ₦85 billion (approximately $54 million) as a community levy to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This payment was confirmed by Omar Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, during his introductory remarks at the 66th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS, held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja.
This contribution marks a historic moment, as it represents Nigeria’s commitment to fulfilling 100 percent of its community levy obligations for the first time in 19 years, covering the period from January 2023 through July 2024. President Touray expressed his appreciation for this milestone, highlighting the leadership of Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu and the dedication of the Nigerian government and its citizens towards the ECOWAS community.
However, the ECOWAS President also addressed ongoing challenges related to the remittance of community levies from other member states. He noted that delays in payments remain a pressing issue, underscoring the need for member nations to fulfill their financial obligations to ensure the community’s financial stability.
The meeting, chaired by President Tinubu, brings together twelve heads of state amidst rising tensions due to the recent withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS. Key topics on the agenda include evaluating sanctions against these nations, addressing regional security threats, and discussing the implementation of the proposed single currency, the ECO, aimed at enhancing economic integration within the region.
As ECOWAS navigates these complex issues, Nigeria’s substantial financial commitment stands as a testament to its leadership role and dedication to fostering unity and stability within West Africa.
On Friday, May 16, 2025, Princess Opeyemi Bright was sworn in as the youngest Mayor in the United Kingdom, assuming the prestigious title of First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham at the age of 29.
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Princess Bright’s election has been widely lauded as a testament to diversity, youth empowerment, and the increasing global impact of the Nigerian diaspora. Having served as a councillor since the age of 22, her ascent to mayoralty follows a legacy of public service, with her mother, Dr. Councillor Afolasade Bright, previously serving as Civic Mayor of Hackney.
Princess Bright’s success exemplifies a broader trend of Nigerians achieving prominent positions in international governance, joining the ranks of figures like Kemi Badenoch and Chi Onwurah in the UK, and others globally. Her inauguration serves as an encouragement for youth engagement in politics and underscores the vital role young people and women play in shaping public life. This historic achievement offers valuable insights for Nigerian policymakers in diaspora engagement and leadership development initiatives.
Nollywood actress Mary Njoku has recently ignited a debate regarding the necessity of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination for university admissions in Nigeria. In a statement posted on her Instagram story, Njoku questioned the need for JAMB and post-UTME, arguing that the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) should be sufficient proof of a candidate’s completion of secondary education.
Her statement comes amidst recent controversy surrounding JAMB, particularly following widespread reports of mass failures in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME). While JAMB has admitted to errors and announced retakes for affected candidates, Njoku’s questioning highlights a deeper concern regarding the redundancy and potential inefficiencies within the current university admission process. The actress’s comments add fuel to an existing debate about the effectiveness and fairness of the JAMB examination in evaluating a student’s readiness for tertiary education.
South African sensation Tyla is poised to make history as the first African personality to host the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. Organizers announced the Grammy-winning artist as the host of the 2025 edition, scheduled to air live on June 21st from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.
Beyond hosting duties, Tyla has also secured two nominations: Favourite Global Music Star and Favourite Music Collaboration for “Show Me Love” with WizTheMc, and “bees & honey.”
The nominations list is topped by Kendrick Lamar, Ariana Grande, and Lady Gaga, each receiving four nods. Selena Gomez, Dwayne Johnson, Jelly Roll, and Jack Black follow closely behind with three nominations apiece.
Expressing her excitement on X, Tyla simply stated, “I’m really about to host the kids choice awards.” This landmark achievement further solidifies Tyla’s rising star on the global stage.
Princess Opeyemi Bright Inaugurated as Youngest UK Mayor.
Nollywood Actress Questions JAMB’s Relevance in University Admissions.
Tyla to Host 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards.
Queen Phinadon Honored at the Cultural Exhibition and Award Ceremony 202
Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Brave New World Set for Theatrical Release
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