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Two Nigerians Rescued as Scores Feared Dead in Mediterranean Boat Disaster – IOM | Diaspora News Today

  • Feb 11
  • 4 min read

Two Nigerian women were rescued after a rubber boat capsized off Libya’s coast, while dozens of migrants are feared dead or missing, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The vessel, carrying about 55 people, sank amid harsh winter conditions. Survivors recounted losing family members, including infants. IOM highlighted the dangers of irregular migration, the unseaworthy nature of rubber boats, and renewed calls for safer migration pathways and anti-trafficking measures. https://www.diasporanews.ng/post/two-nigerians-rescued-as-scores-feared-dead-in-mediterranean-boat-disaster-iom


U.S. Warns Nigerians: Visa Overstays Could Jeopardise Travel Opportunities for Others 

The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has cautioned Nigerian travellers that overstaying visas can harm broader travel opportunities for citizens who abide by rules in future applications. The advisory stresses that individual non‑compliance undermines the credibility of Nigerian applicants, affecting students, business visitors, and families seeking entry for legitimate purposes. It also comes amid ongoing restrictions on certain U.S. non‑immigrant visa categories for Nigerian nationals as part of tightened immigration enforcement.





Nigerian Man Shot Dead at Johannesburg Filling Station 



A Nigerian national, Emeka Uzor, was shot and killed around 3:00 p.m. while seated in his car at a Caltex filling station in Windsor East, Randburg, Johannesburg, renewing concerns about the safety of Nigerian residents in South Africa. The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) condemned the killing and urged the South African Police Service to conduct a transparent investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice, while appealing for diplomatic engagement to protect Nigerian nationals 







UK to Enforce ETA Requirement for Visa‑Free Visitors from February 25

The United Kingdom will fully enforce its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for visa‑exempt visitors starting 25 February 2026, meaning travellers from about 85 countries must secure approval before departure or risk denial of boarding by airlines or other carriers. The ETA, costing around £16 and valid for two years, applies to tourism, business visits, and short study stays. British and Irish citizens and holders of valid UK visas remain exempt. 


U.S. Expands Deportation List, Adds 18 Nigerians Convicted of Serious Crimes 

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security  has expanded its deportation list to include 18 additional Nigerian nationals convicted of serious crimes, bringing the total slated for removal to 97 under its “worst‑of‑the‑worst” criminal register. The newly added individuals were mainly convicted of offences such as wire fraud, mail fraud, and identity theft. U.S. authorities said the move is part of a nationwide enforcement operation targeting criminal non‑citizens.



  


 


 


UK Court Begins Sentencing of Nigerian Man for Stabbing Senior Army Officer 



A British court has started sentencing Nigerian national Anthony Esan at Maidstone Crown Court for the July 23, 2024 stabbing of Lieutenant Colonel Mark Teeton near Brompton Barracks in Chatham. Prosecutors described the assault as calculated and deliberate. Esan previously pleaded guilty to attempted murder and two knife possession charges in January 2026 after an extensive police investigation. Teeton survived the attack, and the sentencing is expected to span three days.  https://www.diasporanews.ng/post/uk-court-begins-sentencing-of-nigerian-man-for-stabbing-senior-army-officer






Malaysia Moves to End Agent‑Led Foreign Worker Recruitment with New Digital Hiring System 



The Malaysian government, led by Human Resources Minister Datuk Ramakrishnan, announced plans to introduce a centralised digital platform that will let employers hire foreign workers directly, eliminating third‑party agents. The move aims to reduce high recruitment costs, improve transparency, curb exploitation, and prevent workers from paying excessive fees and falling into debt before arrival. Employers will engage jobseekers directly with clear terms before contracts are finalised.  https://www.diasporanews.ng/post/malaysia-moves-to-end-agent-led-foreign-worker-recruitment-with-new-digital-hiring-system






 


UK Graduate Returns to Nigeria After Failed Search for Visa‑Sponsored Job 



A Nigerian graduate, Deborah Boms, has returned to Nigeria after months of unsuccessful attempts to secure a visa‑sponsored job in the United Kingdom despite completing her education. Deborah said she submitted thousands of applications and attended many interviews, yet no employer offered the sponsorship she needed to remain and work legally. In a social media video, she shared the emotional and financial toll of her struggle, sparking discussions about post‑study work challenges abroad.  https://www.diasporanews.ng/post/uk-graduate-returns-to-nigeria-after-failed-search-for-visa-sponsored-job






Russia Denies Recruiting Nigerians for Ukraine War, Reaffirms Military Ties 



The Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, Andrey Podyelyshev, has rejected reports that Russia is recruiting Nigerians to fight in the Ukraine war, insisting there is no government‑backed programme to enlist Nigerians in the conflict. Moscow said any illegal recruitment efforts are not state‑sponsored and highlighted ongoing military‑technical cooperation with Nigeria, including training and equipment discussions, underscoring broader diplomatic and defence ties between the two nations.  https://www.diasporanews.ng/post/russia-denies-recruiting-nigerians-for-ukraine-war-reaffirms-military-ties






Nigerian Consulate Calls for Arrest of Gang Behind Killing of Citizen in Johannesburg 



The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg has demanded the swift arrest and prosecution of suspects responsible for the February 8 killing of Nigerian national Emeka Clement Uzor in Windsor East, Randburg, Johannesburg. The mission condemned the violence, expressing deep concern about the safety of Nigerians in South Africa and urged authorities to bring perpetrators to justice. It reaffirmed the rights of all to due process and called on Nigerians to remain calm.  https://www.diasporanews.ng/post/nigerian-consulate-calls-for-arrest-of-gang-behind-killing-of-citizen-in-johannesburg





APC Chairman Urges Diaspora Unity to Boost Nigeria’s Global Image 



The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, has called on Nigerians in the diaspora  especially party members  to unify and support Nigeria’s development and improve its global image. Speaking via Zoom at a strategic summit in New York, he urged engagement through the party’s official diaspora office and encouraged collaboration with recognised structures to strengthen political cohesion and international influence.  https://www.diasporanews.ng/post/apc-chairman-urges-diaspora-unity-to-boost-nigeria-s-global-image








Diaspora Group Applauds Ohakim on Imo State Honour 



A diaspora‑based support group has congratulated former Imo State Governor Chief Ikedi Godson Ohakim for receiving the Grand Service Star of Imo State (GSSI), one of the state’s highest honours, presented during the state’s 50th anniversary celebrations. The Imo Diaspora Support for Governor Hope Uzodimma praised Ohakim’s leadership, citing his impact on infrastructure, governance reforms, and the Clean and Green Initiative. The group also acknowledged his ongoing mentorship and cooperation with current leaders. 


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