News
U.S. Humanitarian Aid: $27 Million for Nigeria as Part of Sub-Saharan Africa Package
The United States Mission in Nigeria has announced a significant allocation of $27 million as part of a broader humanitarian aid package totalling $536 million directed toward Sub-Saharan Africa. This initiative exemplifies the ongoing commitment of the U.S. Government to offer life-saving support to vulnerable populations and host communities across the continent.
In a statement reported by PHINADON MAGAZINE , U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, emphasised the transformative impact of this assistance, stating, “This assistance will make a real difference in the lives of those most in need in Nigeria and across the continent.” His remarks underscore the United States’ dedication to addressing humanitarian challenges in Nigeria, particularly in relation to food insecurity and the adverse effects of climate change.
The comprehensive aid package was revealed by Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, Uzra Zeya, bringing the total U.S. humanitarian assistance for Sub-Saharan Africa in Fiscal Year 2024 to nearly $3.7 billion. These funds are specifically intended to meet the critical needs of vulnerable individuals, including refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, and other populations affected by conflict.
The allocated $27 million for Nigeria will be channeled through the State Department’s Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, as well as USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance. Mills reaffirmed the solidarity of the United States with Nigeria, stating, “We stand with Nigeria in its efforts to provide for vulnerable populations and build resilience against food insecurity and climate change impacts.”
This substantial aid not only aims to alleviate immediate needs but also focuses on fostering durable solutions, including voluntary returns and the integration of refugees, particularly in crisis-prone areas such as the Sahel.
The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a public holiday to honor the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 82. The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government, following President Bola Tinubu’s approval. This declaration is part of the ongoing seven-day national mourning period.
In a statement, the Minister described Buhari as a leader who served Nigeria with dedication and integrity, emphasizing the holiday’s purpose: to allow Nigerians to reflect on his contributions to the nation’s democratic journey and national development. Citizens are urged to use this day to promote peace, patriotism, and national cohesion, aligning with the late President’s vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria. During the mourning period, national flags will fly at half-mast. The Federal Government has expressed its deepest condolences to the family, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians.
The Nigeria Police Force has announced the successful dismantling of two major human trafficking syndicates operating across the country. In coordinated sting operations spanning Enugu, Anambra, and Ondo States, law enforcement rescued numerous victims, including children, pregnant women, and foreign nationals, and apprehended 11 suspects.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a statement from the Force Headquarters in Abuja, commending the officers involved for their bravery and precision.
In one operation spearheaded by the Zone-13 Police Command, authorities targeted a child trafficking and “baby factory” ring. Eight suspects were arrested, including Uzoamaka Ani (27), Joy Madu (52), and Victoria Onodu Akasike (56), who allegedly confessed to involvement in child abduction, illegal adoption, and operating unlicensed medical facilities used as baby factories. The syndicate operated strategically across communities in Enugu and Anambra States, preying on vulnerable women and children. Rescued victims included a seven-month-old baby, a four-year-old child, and two pregnant women, all discovered in a secluded village. The expectant mothers, from Ebonyi State, were reportedly lured and detained for forced childbirth, with the intent to sell their newborns. The victims are currently receiving medical and psychological support under protective custody, while the search continues for fleeing members of the syndicate.
In a separate incident in Ondo State, an operation led by the state police resulted in the rescue of David Angerinya, a Ghanaian national trafficked into Nigeria under false pretenses. This operation stemmed from a formal petition from the Interpol Liaison Office in Abuja, highlighting a suspected case of transnational human trafficking. Investigators uncovered a broader international trafficking network and arrested three suspects: Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex, and Kojo Felix. These individuals were allegedly part of a syndicate deceiving individuals from neighboring West African countries with false promises of jobs and travel visas to destinations like Canada, only to hold them in exploitative conditions in Nigeria. During the raid, police discovered 39 additional Ghanaian nationals, many without valid travel documents or with expired passports, and in dire health conditions. These victims are now receiving medical treatment.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised the officers for their swift response and dedication to dismantling trafficking networks. He reaffirmed the Police Force’s commitment to combating human trafficking, child exploitation, and cross-border crimes. He urged Nigerians to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
The Inspector-General emphasized the Police Force’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring perpetrators are brought to justice, stating, “These operations send a strong and clear message: there is no hiding place for human traffickers in Nigeria.” He added that the Nigeria Police Force will continue working to disrupt criminal networks and safeguard the rights and dignity of all individuals within the nation’s borders.
Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness, will be buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State. Governor Dikko Umaru Radda confirmed that the repatriation of Buhari’s body from the United Kingdom is scheduled for Tuesday, with the burial taking place on the same day.
Preparations for the burial are underway in Daura. Vice President Kashim Shettima is currently in London overseeing the repatriation process.
Buhari, who previously served as a military leader from 1984 to 1985, held consecutive presidential terms from 2015 to 2023. He was the first opposition figure to democratically ascend to the presidency in Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu has ordered national flags to fly at half-mast for seven days and declared that Buhari will receive full state honors. Tributes have poured in, with Tinubu lauding Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman.” Former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida also acknowledged Buhari’s patriotism, despite past disagreements. While remembered for his integrity, some observers have noted Buhari’s challenges in improving Nigeria’s economy and security during his tenure.
Public Holiday Declared on 15th July in Honour of Late Former President Buhari.
Nigeria Police Dismantles Trafficking Syndicates, Rescues Victims in Coordinated Operations.
