Nigeria to repatriate over 1,000 nationals from South Africa amid rising anti-immigrant tensions
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Nigeria is preparing to repatriate more than 1,000 of its citizens from South Africa due to escalating anti-immigrant tensions in the country. This initiative follows a similar move by Ghana, which recently repatriated hundreds of its nationals. Screening for Nigeria’s voluntary repatriation program began on Thursday, with expectations of over 1,000 individuals participating. Nigeria’s High Commission in Pretoria has secured waivers with South African authorities, allowing individuals with immigration-related offenses to depart on repatriation flights instead of facing detention. South Africa, a major economic hub, has historically attracted workers from across the region. However, with an unemployment rate exceeding 30 percent, the nation has experienced recurring xenophobic protests, including recent outbreaks of violence. These events have reignited discussions across Africa concerning xenophobia, migration, and the disparity between pan-African ideals and the realities faced by migrants on the continent. Concerns about potential violence have increased following an ultimatum from a citizen-led group demanding the expulsion of undocumented migrants by June 30. The South African government has committed to stricter enforcement against undocumented immigrants while urging citizens to avoid vigilantism. According to the statistics agency, over three million foreigners reside in South Africa, constituting 5.1 percent of the population, with more than 63 percent originating fro
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The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria PCN has sealed 572 pharmacies and patent medicine stores in Plateau State following a four-day enforcement exercise. The closures were due to violations of pharmaceutical regulations, including cooking inside drug outlets, unauthorized clinical practice, and illegal access to controlled medicines. Dr. Suleiman S. Chiroma, Head of Department, Enforcement, speaking on behalf of Registrar/CEO Pharm. Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed, stated that the operation aligns with the PCN's mandate to regulate pharmacy education, training, and practice. The crackdown is part of efforts to enforce the National Drug Distribution Guidelines, aiming to ensure drug distribution through approved channels and eradicate substandard medicines. Of 778 premises inspected across Jos South, Jos North, Mangu, Shendam, Barkin Ladi, Qua’an Pan, and Bassa Local Government Areas, 120 pharmacies, 372 patent medicine stores, and 80 illegal outlets were sealed. Five compliance directives were also issued. The PCN noted that 60 percent of the 199 pharmacies visited were sealed, indicating a concerning standard of pharmaceutical practice. Infractions included unauthorized storage and dispensing of medicines, and operation by prospective vendors. The PCN emphasized its commitment to safeguarding public health by ensuring access to safe, quality medicines dispensed by licensed professionals and urged the public to purchase medicines only from PCN-approved premises.
Carding App has introduced a ₦400 million World Cup prediction event, offering football fans a chance to win a share of the prize pool. Users can predict World Cup matches on the app to earn football coins, which determine their portion of the final ₦400 million. Participants can accumulate coins by predicting match results, inviting friends, and selling gift cards through the app. Consistent performance allows users to compete on group-stage, knockout-stage, and overall leaderboards for additional rewards. The more football coins a user earns, the larger their potential reward. To join, fans need to download the Carding App, create an account, use the promo code WORLDCUP2026, and start predicting matches in the World Cup 2026 prediction section. This initiative combines football entertainment with rewards, allowing fans to test their knowledge and compete for a significant prize.
Nigerian afro-house singer Niniola Apata has shared an emotional tribute to her late husband, Michael Ndika, highlighting his crucial role in her music career. In a video, the Grammy-nominated artist recounted how Ndika, CEO of NaijaReview, shaped her professional and personal life. Ndika passed away on May 19, 2026, at 44 years old. Niniola described their relationship as a "love story," stating that he was her engine and helped her achieve success in the music industry. She revealed that he encouraged her to continue with music even when she considered taking a break. Niniola also expressed the profound void left by his death, calling him the most important person in her life. She thanked the Ndika family for their acceptance and apologized to those affected by the circumstances surrounding the disclosure of his death, which surprised many fans who were unaware of her marriage.
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has received widespread commendation from notable Nigerians and international organizations for the transformations recorded across critical sectors in the state over the past three years. The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa retd., praised Governor Lawal on February 18, 2026, for procuring sophisticated military hardware, including 25 Armoured Personnel Carriers and an endurance surveillance drone, to combat banditry, stating that Zamfara could resemble Dubai with continued efforts. On October 29, 2025, Joseph Obule Odama, Commandant of the National Institute for Security Studies, lauded Governor Lawal for transforming Zamfara from a state of negativity to positivity despite significant challenges. On April 10, 2026, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed led a UN team to Zamfara, expressing the organization's willingness to partner with the state, highlighting its potential in mining and markets, and the leadership's commitment. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended Governor Lawal on April 21, 2026, for his "uncommon" support for military operations. The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria BON awarded Governor Lawal the Infrastructure Governor of the Year on April 19, 2026, for his administration's urban renewal projects, including the construction of a modern International Airport and the refurbishment of over 800 schools. On December 13, 2025, Zamfara State was recognized as the best-perform