Headline

10 Things To Know About The Samoa Agreement

Published

1 year ago

July 9, 2024

The controversial Samoa Agreement has become a topic of discussion for many Nigerians as they wonder what it entails since the news that Nigeria has signed.

On November 15, 2023, the European Union and member states came together to sign one new partnership agreement, which was referred to as the Samoa Agreement.

The member states that signed the agreement are called the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States, also known as OACPS.

About 27 member states from the EU signed the agreement and 79 African, Caribbean and Pacific countries came together to also sign the agreement.

A newspaper organisation had reported that the Samoa Agreement signed by the Nigerian Government contains clauses that mandate Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender rights.

The newspaper’s report was premised on an opinion article by a Lagos-based lawyer, Sonnie Ekwowusi, that articles of the agreement systematically legalise LGBT.

However, The PUNCH reviewed the 172-page document and found out that the agreement does not contain LGBT clauses, as claimed by the lawyer.

According to the reviewed document and EU press statements, the Samoa agreement focused only on addressing global challenges.
In a post via its official X page on June 28, 2024, the OACPS confirmed that Nigeria has joined other member states to sign the Samoa agreement.

The post reads, “Nigeria today signed the Samoa Agreement, joining 72 fellow members of the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS), in a pledge to enhance OACPS-EU relations international cooperation.

“Ambassador Obinna Chiedu Onowu represented his country to sign the Samoa Agreement at the OACPS Secretariat in Brussels. The majority of the 79 OACPS member states signed the agreement in Apia, Samoa, on November 15, 2023, which has been provisionally applied since 1 January 2024.

“The Samoa Agreement serves as a vital legal framework for cooperation between the OACPS and the European Union, with the aim of promoting sustainable development, fighting climate change and its effects, generating investment opportunities, and fostering increased collaboration among OACPS member states at the international stage.”

Below are quick facts about the Samoa Agreement

1. The Samoa Agreement is a partnership agreement and a vital legal framework for cooperation between the EU and its member states, on the one hand, and members of OACPS on the other.

2. The multilateral agreement is colloquially called the ‘Samoa Agreement’ because its signing took place on the Island of Samoa in Oceania during the 46th session of the ACP-EU Council of Ministers.

3. The agreement, signed by Nigeria and other members of the OACPS, is based on six key priorities to tackle the main challenges in the member countries over the next two decades.

4. The Nigerian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and the European Union, Obinna Onowu, signed the agreement on behalf of the Nigerian Government at the OACPS Secretariat in Brussels on June 28, 2024.

5. The priorities include human rights, democracy and governance; peace and security; human and social development; inclusive, sustainable economic growth and development; environmental sustainability and climate change; and mobility/migration.

6. An important principle of the agreement is that ‘’the Parties shall make decisions and undertake actions at the most appropriate domestic, regional or multi-country level’’.

7. No Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer clause in the agreement.

8. The EU and all its member states signed the agreement on November 15, 2023. Out of the 79 members of the OACPS, 74, including Nigeria, signed before the deadline of June 30, 2024.

9. The Samoa Agreement is a veritable instrument for Nigeria’s development cooperation with the EU beyond aid. The OACPS–EU Partnership is one of the most diverse and multifaceted development pacts in the international system.

10. The agreement is to be ratified after due consideration and approval by the Federal Executive Council, National Economic Council, and the National Assembly.

Headline

JAPA: Top Six Countries To Obtain Easiest Citizenship

Published

10 hours ago

December 30, 2025

Editor

As a Nigerian considering relocation plans, interest in countries with clear and less complicated citizenship pathways is a smart way to not just guarantee greener pastures, but also provide you with the opportunity to feel more at home in a foreign land. While some of the programmes are ancestry-based, others allow Nigerians with such a link to try other means.

Contents
1. Dominica
2. Ireland
3. Turkey
4. Portugal
5. Vanuatu
6. Italy
Though rules vary widely across borders, some nations stand out for offering citizenship through investment or family ties with fewer hurdles and faster processing timelines.

Below are the top six countries with the easiest citizenship:

1. Dominica
Dominica operates a citizenship-by-investment programme that allows applicants to qualify through a contribution to the government’s Economic Diversification Fund or by investing in approved real estate. Processing typically takes a few months. Citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Zone. There is no residency requirement, and dual citizenship is permitted.

2. Ireland
Ireland provides a clear citizenship pathway for individuals with Irish ancestry. Those with an Irish-born parent qualify automatically, while people with an Irish-born grandparent can apply through the Foreign Births Register. An Irish passport grants full European Union rights, including freedom of movement across EU countries. Dual citizenship is allowed, and there is no language requirement for applicants applying by descent.

3. Turkey
Turkey offers a fast-track citizenship option through investment. Foreign nationals who purchase qualifying real estate valued at a minimum of $400,000 can obtain citizenship within a few months. The programme does not require residency or renunciation of an existing nationality. Turkish passport holders have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several countries, with ongoing efforts to expand travel agreements.

4. Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa programme provides a residency-to-citizenship route for foreign investors. After five years of legal residence and meeting programme conditions, applicants may apply for citizenship. Approved investment options include venture capital funds and other qualifying assets. Successful applicants gain an EU passport, access to the Schengen Area, and dual citizenship, subject to passing a basic Portuguese language test.

5. Vanuatu
Vanuatu runs one of the world’s fastest citizenship programmes. Through its Development Support Programme, eligible applicants can receive citizenship in as little as two months after making the required financial contribution. The country offers visa-free access to over 100 destinations and has no tax on global income or capital gains. Residency requirements are minimal.

6. Italy
Italy grants citizenship by descent to individuals with an Italian parent or grandparent, following a 2025 legal update that tightened eligibility rules. Applicants must provide official documents proving a direct family link to an Italian ancestor. Italian citizenship comes with full EU rights, wide visa-free travel, and the ability to pass citizenship to future generations. Dual nationality is allowed, and no language test is required for descent-based applications.
(Tribune)

Headline

Japa: 5 Affordable European Countries Nigerians Can Relocate To

Published

11 hours ago

December 30, 2025

Editor

As economic pressures continue to mount, many Nigerians are increasingly exploring relocation as a path toward stability, better opportunities, and an improved quality of life. However, traditional destinations such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States are becoming more difficult to access due to rising living costs and stricter visa policies.

Contents
1. Slovakia
2. Latvia
3. Portugal
4. Hungary
5. Georgia

But beyond these popular options, several lesser-known European countries are emerging as affordable and welcoming alternatives. Offering low tuition fees, flexible visa policies, and a reasonable cost of living, these nations are becoming attractive relocation choices for Nigerians seeking balance and opportunity.

In this article, Tribune Online highlights five budget-friendly countries Nigerians can consider for relocation:

1. Slovakia
Located in Central Europe, Slovakia combines stability, safety, and simplicity; three factors often missing in high-pressure relocation destinations.

Though it may not feature prominently on social media relocation lists, Slovakia’s affordability and accessibility make it a hidden gem. Students enjoy low tuition fees, while residents benefit from proximity to major European cities like Vienna and Prague. For Nigerians seeking structure and affordability, Slovakia provides a peaceful yet practical alternative.

2. Latvia
The Baltic nation of Latvia is fast becoming a preferred destination for international students and skilled professionals. Known for its low living costs and straightforward residence procedures, Latvia offers a convenient entry point into the European Union.

Riga, its capital city, blends historic charm with modern infrastructure, providing an ideal environment for studying, working, or gradually transitioning to other parts of Europe.

3. Portugal
Situated on Europe’s western coast, Portugal is one of the continent’s most liveable and affordable countries. Known for its mild weather, safety, and reasonable living costs, Portugal offers a soft landing for Nigerians looking to relocate without excessive financial strain. The country’s friendly visa policies and welcoming atmosphere make it ideal for students, remote workers, and small business owners. Beyond its scenic beauty, Portugal provides what many Nigerians desire: peace of mind and an easier start abroad.

4. Hungary
Hungary has quietly become a top choice for international students, offering quality education at affordable tuition rates. Living costs are significantly lower than in Western Europe, and cities like Budapest, Szeged, and Debrecen provide vibrant yet budget-friendly environments.

For Nigerians looking to relocate through education, Hungary offers a realistic and sustainable path toward long-term settlement in Europe.

5. Georgia
For Nigerians seeking an easy transition abroad, Georgia presents one of the smoothest relocation routes. The country allows Nigerians to stay visa-free for up to one year, eliminating embassy interviews and lengthy paperwork.

Located between Europe and Asia, Georgia offers a blend of natural beauty and affordability. Rent, transport, and food costs remain moderate, making it an excellent base for digital nomads and young professionals.

As migration trends evolve, success now depends on flexibility and strategic planning. While the dream of relocating abroad remains strong, the path doesn’t always have to lead through the UK or Canada. For Nigerians ready to look beyond the familiar, Europe’s quieter corners still offer accessible and rewarding opportunities.

Headline

Insecurity: US Congressman Riley Moore Reveals Trump’s Mission In Nigeria

Published

1 day ago

December 29, 2025

Editor

US Congressman Riley Moore has dismissed insinuations that President Donald Trump is attempting to bring war to Nigeria.

Moore made the remark in a post on his verified X handle on Monday.

His comments followed a US military airstrike on a terrorist enclave in north-west Nigeria on Christmas Day, reportedly carried out on the directive of President Trump.

“President Trump is not trying to bring war to Nigeria, he’s bringing peace and security to Nigeria and to the thousands of Christians who face horrific violence and death.

“The strikes against ISIS on Christmas, in coordination with the Nigerian government, have given hope to the Christians in Nigeria,” he said.

Recall that the lawmaker had previously stated that President Trump is focused on ending the killing of Christians in Nigeria.

It will be recalled that Moore led a US delegation on a fact-finding mission into alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria some weeks ago.

During his brief stay in the country, Moore travelled to Benue State, where he interfaced with religious and traditional leaders, as well as internally displaced persons.