GistSmart

Posts

Showing posts from March, 2025

IMN PROTESTS ERUPT IN ABUJA AND MAJOR NIGERIAN CITIES

IMN PROTESTS ERUPT IN ABUJA AND MAJOR NIGERIAN CITIES On March 28, 2025, the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), commonly known as the Shi'ites, organized protests in Abuja and other major Nigerian cities. In anticipation of these demonstrations, the United States Embassy in Nigeria issued a security alert to its citizens, advising caution due to potential unrest associated with the planned protests. The IMN has a history of organizing protests to advocate for the release of their leader, Sheikh Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, and to address other grievances. These demonstrations have occasionally led to clashes with security forces. For instance, in August 2024, a confrontation between IMN members and the police in Abuja's Wuse Market resulted in casualties on both sides, including the deaths of two police officers and a trader. Given the potential for unrest, residents and visitors in Abuja and other affected cities are advised to exercise caution. It is recommended to avoi...

NYSC to Commence ₦77,000 Monthly Allowance for Corps Members Starting March 2025

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has confirmed that, starting from March 2025, corps members will receive an increased monthly allowance of ₦77,000. This adjustment aligns with the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024, which raised the minimum wage to ₦70,000. The increase represents a significant boost from the previous allowance of ₦33,000, reflecting the government's commitment to enhancing the welfare of Nigerian youth participating in national service. During an interactive session with corps members at the Wuse and Garki NYSC Zonal Offices in Abuja, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, the Director-General of NYSC, reassured participants that their welfare remains a top priority. He confirmed that the new allowance structure would take effect from March 2025, in line with the recent minimum wage adjustments. This development underscores the government's dedication to supporting the NYSC program and ensuring that corps members are adequately compen...

Bobrisky Pauses London Leisure to Address Rivers State Crisis, Igniting Online Debates

Bobrisky Breaks Silence on Rivers State Political Crisis from London Nigerian socialite and internet personality Bobrisky has paused his leisure activities in London to weigh in on the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, Nigeria. Taking to his Instagram page (@bobrisky222), he expressed concern over the deepening tension between political heavyweights in the state, a move that has since stirred reactions across social media. The Rivers State Political Crisis: A Deepening Rift At the heart of the crisis is an ongoing power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who now serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). What began as subtle political disagreements has now morphed into a public and divisive conflict that threatens the peace and democratic stability of the oil-rich state. Governor Fubara has accused loyalists of Wike of undermining his administration, while Wike’s supporters maintain that the governor ...

Guidelines from the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria to Avoid Permanent Visa Bans

U.S. Embassy Shares Key Tips to Help Nigerians Avoid Permanent Visa Bans The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria has released important guidelines to help Nigerian visa applicants improve their chances of visa approval and avoid actions that could result in a permanent ban from entering the United States. These recommendations address common mistakes and outline best practices for navigating the visa interview process successfully. If you’re planning to travel to the United States for study, tourism, business, or research, here are the top things you should know: 1. Submit Complete and Accurate Documentation One of the most common reasons for visa denial is submitting incomplete or inaccurate documents. Whether you're applying for a student visa, tourist visa, or work visa, make sure: All forms are correctly filled out. Supporting documents (like bank statements, invitation letters, school transcripts, etc.) are properly organized and up-to-date. Information provided is truthful and verifiable...

JADA P FINALLY SHARES FIRST GLIMPSE OF HER DAUGHTER WITH WIZKID

Title: Wizkid and Jada P Welcome Their Fifth Child: A Glimpse of Their Newborn Daughter In an exciting and heartwarming update, Jada Pollock, also known as Jada P, the partner of Nigerian music icon Wizkid, has shared a rare glimpse of their newborn daughter. This sweet moment, which has quickly captured the hearts of fans worldwide, was shared on Jada P's Instagram Story. The photo features Jada stepping out with a radiant post-pregnancy glow, while their adorable daughter rests comfortably in a stylish stroller. This reveal comes after Wizkid made the joyful announcement of their daughter's birth on January 6, 2025. In his post, he expressed his longing to reunite with his newborn after an extended stay in Nigeria. The couple, already parents to two sons, has now welcomed their first daughter, marking a new chapter in their growing family. A Joyous Celebration and the Arrival of Baby Girl The announcement of their daughter’s birth followed an exciting and pink-the...

TYLA'S BEST WORLD MUSIC ARTIST WIN: A VICTORY OR A CONTROVERSY?

Tyla, the South African singer behind the viral hit Water, has officially been crowned Best World Music Artist of the Year. While her win is a massive achievement for African music on the global stage, it has sparked intense debate. Many are questioning if Tyla truly represents "World Music." Traditionally, this category has been reserved for artists who showcase indigenous and deeply rooted cultural sounds. While Water is undoubtedly a banger, it leans heavily on Western pop and R&B influences, raising concerns about the industry’s increasing erasure of authentic African music in favor of mainstream appeal. Where does this leave the legends of Afrobeats, Highlife, Amapiano, and other traditional African genres that struggle for global recognition? Are we witnessing a shift where the West decides what "World Music" should sound like? Or should we celebrate Tyla's win as proof that African artists are finally breaking into global markets on their ...

BITTER KOLA: THE NATURAL SUPERFOOD FOR HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Bitter kola, also known as Garcinia kola, is a powerful medicinal nut that has been used in African traditional medicine for centuries. Despite its bitter taste, this small nut is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and essential nutrients that provide numerous health benefits. From boosting immunity to improving digestion and enhancing brain function, bitter kola is truly a natural superfood. In this article, we’ll explore the amazing health benefits of eating bitter kola and why you should consider adding it to your diet. 1. BOOSTS IMMUNE SYSTEM FUNCTION A strong immune system is essential for fighting off infections and diseases. Bitter kola is rich in antioxidants that help to strengthen the immune system and protect the body from harmful toxins. ✔️ Fights infections: Bitter kola has antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial and viral infections. ✔️ Prevents colds & flu: Regular consumption may help reduce the risk of common illnesses like the flu and colds. ✔️ Promot...