Headline

US Sets Deadline For Troop Withdrawal From Niger

Published

2 years ago

May 19, 2024

The United States has initiated the withdrawal of its military forces from Niger Republic, following directives from the West African nation’s military leadership.

The withdrawal process, slated to be completed by September 15, 2024, marks the end of an era of American military presence in the country.

According to a press release jointly issued by the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland and the US Department of Defense on Sunday, discussions between the two parties, held from May 15 to 19, 2024, in Niamey, Niger, aimed to ensure the orderly and safe withdrawal of US forces from the region.

Led by high-ranking officials such as Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict, Christopher Maier, and the Chief of Staff of the Nigerien Army, Colonel-Major Mamane Kiaou, the discussions emphasised transparency and mutual respect.

The withdrawal encompasses troops stationed at key bases, notably the strategically significant $110 million drone base in Agadez.

“Representatives of the U.S. Department of Defense and the Department of National Defense of the Republic of Niger met from May 15 to 19, 2024, in Niamey, Republic of Niger, as part of a Joint Disengagement Commission, to coordinate the orderly and safe withdrawal of U.S. forces from Niger.

“These discussions between the militaries were conducted in complete transparency and with perfect mutual respect between the two parties.

“The U.S. Department of Defense delegation was led by the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict, Mr. Christopher Maier; and the Director of Joint Force Development in the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Lieutenant General Dagvin Anderson. The delegation of the Ministry of National Defense of Niger was led by the Chief of Staff of the Army, Colonel-Major Mamane Sani Kiaou,” the statement read in part.

Despite the military disengagement, both nations affirmed their commitment to ongoing diplomatic dialogue and cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including counterterrorism efforts.

“The U.S. Department of Defense and the Ministry of National Defense of Niger have reached a disengagement agreement to effect the withdrawal of U.S. forces, which has already begun. It is therefore agreed that this disengagement will end no later than September 15, 2024.

“Both delegations confirmed the guarantees of protection and security to the American forces during their withdrawal. The delegations also established procedures to facilitate the entry and exit of U.S. personnel, including overflight and landing clearances for military flights.

“The U.S. Department of Defense and the Nigerien Ministry of National Defense recall the joint sacrifices of Nigerien and U.S. forces in the fight against terrorism and commend each other’s efforts to build up the Nigerien Armed Forces. The Parties undertake to continue cooperation in areas of common interest.

“The withdrawal of U.S. forces from Niger does not affect the continuation of U.S.-Niger development relations. The United States and Niger are committed to ongoing diplomatic dialogue to define the future of their bilateral relations,” it added.

The US initially established a military base in Niger to combat armed groups aligned with al-Qaeda and ISIL operating in the Sahel region, which includes Burkina Faso and Mali. The primary airbase in Agadez, located about 920km from the capital Niamey, has been a crucial site for both manned and unmanned surveillance flights and other military operations.

On April 19, 2024, the US announced plans to withdraw its troops from Niger due to the West African nation’s growing alignment with Russia and its distancing from Western powers. Consequently, the US Department of State agreed to pull out approximately 1,000 troops from the country, which has been under military rule since July 2023.

Headline

JAPA: Top Six Countries To Obtain Easiest Citizenship

Published

2 days 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

2 days 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

3 days 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.