United States

By Muhammad Abubakar

The government of Ghana has announced that it will accept West African nationals deported from the United States under a new repatriation arrangement.

The agreement, reached after weeks of diplomatic consultations, is expected to cover citizens from Ghana and neighbouring West African countries who have overstayed their visas or entered the US illegally. Officials say the move is aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and ensuring orderly migration management.

In a statement, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasised that the government is working closely with the US to ensure the rights and dignity of returnees are respected. 

“We are committed to upholding humanitarian standards while cooperating on international migration policies,” the ministry said.

The decision has drawn mixed reactions locally, with some civil society groups raising concerns about the country’s preparedness to reintegrate deportees. Others see it as an opportunity for returnees to contribute to national development.

US officials welcomed Ghana’s stance, describing it as a positive step toward addressing migration challenges in the region.

By Muhammad Abubakar

A new survey published by The New York Post has revealed that more than 60 per cent of Generation Z in the United States sympathise with Hamas over Israel in the ongoing conflict.

The findings highlight a significant generational divide in perspectives on the Middle East, with younger Americans expressing stronger support for Palestinians compared to older demographics who largely align with Israel.

Analysts suggest that Gen Z’s views may be shaped by social media narratives, human rights advocacy, and growing criticism of U.S. foreign policy in the region. The data underscores shifting attitudes that could have long-term implications for American politics and international relations.

The survey has sparked debate across the political spectrum, with some commentators arguing that the results reflect rising awareness of Palestinian suffering, while others warn of increasing radicalisation among youth.

By Muhammad Abubakar

A U.S. congressional committee is investigating the Wikimedia Foundation, demanding it hand over data on contributors who edited articles critical of Israel, a move the nonprofit is calling an “act of government overreach.”

The House Committee on Oversight and Accountability claims the probe is necessary to examine “potential misinformation and anti-Israel bias” on the online encyclopedia. 

In a letter to the foundation, lawmakers requested internal communications and, crucially, the identifying information of volunteer editors.

The Wikimedia Foundation has vowed to reject the request for user data. “We will not comply,” a foundation spokesperson stated, arguing the demand jeopardises free speech, privacy, and the project’s neutral model. 

Digital rights groups have also condemned the investigation, calling it an attempt to intimidate and identify anonymous critics.

The standoff sets the stage for a significant legal battle over congressional power, free speech, and the independence of digital platforms.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a public advisory warning Nigerians against misusing United States visas, stressing that entry into the U.S. does not exempt visa holders from ongoing scrutiny.

In a press statement dated July 29, 2025, and signed by the National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada, the Service noted that the U.S. Government had raised concerns about Nigerians engaging in activities that contradict the declared purpose of their travel and the category under which their visas were issued.

“The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) wishes to alert the general public to the concerns raised by the Government of the United States of America on the need for Nigerians to desist from misusing entry visas granted by the US through activities that are inconsistent with the stated purpose of travel and visa classification,” the statement said.

The NCS emphasized that visa vetting continues beyond the point of entry.

It warned that U.S. immigration officials retain the authority to revoke visas at any time if holders are found in breach of immigration laws, import or export regulations, or other legal standards.

“U.S. authorities will continuously monitor the activities of visa holders, and visas can be revoked if holders are found to have violated US immigration protocols, import/export guidelines and other laws,” the Customs Service noted.

The advisory also reminded Nigerian travellers to comply with cash declaration rules when entering or exiting the country.

Individuals carrying more than $10,000 or its equivalent are required to declare it to the authorities. Travellers were also warned not to transport prohibited goods in their luggage.

“It is pertinent to also note that passengers are encouraged to be law abiding citizens and be of good conduct within and outside Nigeria,” the statement added.

Intending U.S. travellers were further advised to uphold integrity in all jurisdictions. According to the Customs, “whoever commits fraud in any jurisdiction will face legal consequences both under U.S. and Nigerian laws.”

The NCS disclosed that it is working closely with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure Nigeria remains in good standing.

The aim is to prevent the inclusion of Nigeria in a broader visa restriction list that could affect legitimate travellers.

“The Nigeria Customs Service wishes to reaffirm that it is working with the U.S. Mission in Abuja to ensure that Nigeria meets the criteria to avoid enlistment into an expanded visa ban that will deny entry to well-meaning Nigerians wishing to travel to the US for their lawful business endeavours,” the statement concluded.

The Customs Service urged members of the public to take these reminders seriously in order to protect Nigeria’s global image and ensure unhindered travel for its citizens.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Columbia University has announced disciplinary actions against dozens of students involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations on its campus earlier this year. Measures taken include suspensions, expulsions, and the revocation of degrees, according to a university spokesperson.

The protests, which drew national attention, had sparked controversy over their tone and messaging. The Trump administration, citing concerns of antisemitism, accused the demonstrators of promoting hate speech and paused federal funding to the university in March.

University officials stated that the disciplinary process was based on violations of campus policies, not political content. “We support free expression, but actions that disrupt university operations or threaten community safety are subject to consequences,” the spokesperson said.

Student and civil rights groups have condemned the punishments, calling them excessive and politically motivated. Advocacy organizations continue to demand transparency in the university’s disciplinary procedures.

By Muhammad Ubale Kiru

A quiet but growing crisis is taking shape across societies, especially among young adults. It’s not about inflation, unemployment, or politics; though all of these play a role. It’s called the sexual recession; a noticeable and measurable decline in sexual activity among people, particularly those under 35. And while it may sound like a trivial or even humorous phenomenon to some, the consequences run far deeper than the surface suggests.

What Is a Sexual Recession?

A sexual recession refers to a consistent and significant drop in sexual activity within a population. In recent studies from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, and even parts of Africa, researchers have noticed that young adults are having less sex than previous generations. Not just slightly less, but in some cases, drastically so. But sex, in this context, is not merely about physical intimacy, it’s tied to deeper themes of connection, intimacy, identity, mental health, and even national population stability.

Why Is It Happening?

Several interwoven factors explain this modern-day phenomenon:

1. Digital Distractions and Virtual Living

Smartphones, social media, online gaming, and streaming platforms now consume a major chunk of young people’s time. We are more “connected” than ever, yet lonelier than any generation before. Many now prefer screens over real-life interactions, and as a result, dating, emotional bonding, and physical intimacy have taken a back seat.

2. Economic Pressures

The global economic situation is squeezing young people. Unemployment, underemployment, and the rising cost of living mean that many are postponing marriage or serious relationships. Some even avoid dating entirely due to financial insecurities. How can one think about love and intimacy when they are burdened with survival?

3. Pornography and Unrealistic Expectations

The proliferation of free, high-definition pornography has created skewed views of sexuality, leading to performance anxiety, addiction, and emotional detachment. For some, the convenience of porn replaces the effort of real relationships, leading to a drop in desire for real-world intimacy.

4. Mental Health and Social Anxiety

Depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges have skyrocketed, especially in the post-COVID world. These conditions directly reduce libido, motivation, and the ability to form or sustain intimate bonds.

5. Cultural Shifts and Delayed Adulthood

More people are delaying traditional milestones like marriage, childbearing, or long-term commitments. In some societies, casual sex has also become emotionally draining and less fulfilling, leaving many opting for celibacy, not out of religious devotion but out of fatigue or disillusionment.

6. Hyper-Individualism

Modern culture promotes extreme self-focus: “me first, my goals, my space, my needs.” While self-development is essential, intimacy requires self-sacrifice, compromise, and shared vulnerability. Hyper-individualism often undermines those values.

Why It Matters

Some might argue: “So what? It’s their choice.” But this trend has ripple effects across society.

1. Lower birth rates: Several countries now face demographic crises due to declining fertility.

2. Weakened family structures: Relationships suffer, and social cohesion weakens when people lose touch with intimacy and emotional bonding.

3. Mental health decline: Healthy sexual relationships are closely linked to emotional wellness, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging.

4. Rise in transactional relationships: A vacuum in meaningful intimacy often leads to exploitative or shallow alternatives.

The Way Out: Rebuilding Intimacy in a Fractured World

The solution is not one-size-fits-all, but here are some pathways forward:

1. Teach Healthy Relationship Skills Early

Schools and parents must go beyond basic sex education to include emotional intelligence, communication, boundaries, and empathy. Healthy relationships don’t come naturally – they’re learned.

2. Reduce Digital Dependence

We must encourage digital detox and revive real-world connections. Host physical meetups, foster community spaces, and create tech-free zones to rebuild social skills and real interactions.

3. Address Economic Insecurity

Governments and institutions must tackle the youth unemployment crisis, offer affordable housing, and create environments that make long-term relationships more feasible.

4. Reframe Masculinity and Femininity

Many young men and women are confused about gender roles in today’s world. Society must create balanced narratives that honor emotional vulnerability in men and ambition in women, without turning either into enemies.

5. Prioritize Mental Health

We must normalize therapy, create accessible mental health services, and integrate emotional wellness into everyday life. A healthy mind is a prerequisite for healthy intimacy.

6. Faith and Values

Religious institutions also have a role to play in guiding people toward meaningful love, purposeful relationships, and sacred sexuality. Not through shame, but through compassion, mentorship, and support.

In conclusion, the sexual recession is not about libido; it’s about loneliness, disconnection, and a society drifting away from human intimacy. If we ignore it, we will wake up to a colder, lonelier, and more fractured generation. But if we confront it with wisdom, compassion, and courage, we can rebuild the bonds that make us truly human. It will be naive to wait for more statistics to confirm what we already feel. Let’s act before love becomes extinct.

Muhammad Ubale Kiru wrote in from Kano and can be reached via muhdjkiru@gmail.com

By Muhammad Sulaiman

The U.S. Army has suspended Colonel Nathan McCormack following controversial remarks in which he described Israel as “our worst ‘ally,’” igniting a firestorm of political and military reaction.

In a statement made during a closed-door security forum that was later leaked online, Col. McCormack reportedly said: “Israel is our worst ‘ally.’ We get literally nothing out of the ‘partnership’ other than the enmity of millions of people in the Middle East, Africa and Asia.”

The Pentagon confirmed McCormack’s suspension on Tuesday, stating that the remarks are under formal review for possible violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice and Department of Defence policies on political expression.

“While service members are entitled to personal opinions, public statements by active-duty officers that could affect diplomatic relations are taken seriously,” a Defence Department official said on condition of anonymity.

Col. McCormack, a senior officer with experience in multiple overseas deployments, has not yet commented publicly, but sources close to him say he stands by his critique and views it as a matter of strategic honesty.

His suspension has drawn sharply divided reactions. Critics called his comments inflammatory and damaging to U.S.-Israel relations, while supporters praised his candour, arguing that Washington’s unconditional support for Israel has long gone unquestioned within military circles.

The incident adds to a broader debate in Washington over the costs and consequences of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, especially amid ongoing international criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza and Iran.

By Muhammad Abubakar

The United States government has announced a new policy requiring student visa applicants to make their social media profiles publicly accessible as part of the application process.

According to the Department of State, the move is intended to enhance security screening and allow immigration officials to better assess the backgrounds of applicants. The policy will apply to most non-immigrant visa categories, including the F-1 visa commonly used by international students.

Critics have raised concerns about privacy and potential bias, warning that the rule could discourage free expression online. Supporters, however, argue that it strengthens national security and helps identify potential threats.

The new requirement is expected to take effect later this year, with applicants needing to provide their social media handles and ensure that posts are visible for review.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

U.S. intelligence assessments have concluded that Iran is not currently pursuing a nuclear weapon, despite heightened regional tensions and fears of escalation. According to officials cited by CNN, Iran would still need up to three years to produce and deliver a nuclear warhead to a target of its choosing, should it decide to take that path.

These revelations come amid a dramatic military conflict between Israel and Iran that erupted earlier this month. On June 13, Israel launched a wide-ranging preemptive military campaign—codenamed Operation Rising Lion—against Iran, targeting over 100 sites including nuclear facilities in Natanz, Isfahan, and Tehran.

The Israeli strikes killed at least 224 people and injured more than a thousand, many of them civilians. Civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and power stations, was also severely damaged.

Iran retaliated with Operation True Promise 3, unleashing a massive barrage of over 150 ballistic missiles and more than 100 drones against Israeli military bases and infrastructure. Dozens of Israelis were injured, several seriously.

Despite the intensity of the conflict, U.S. intelligence officials maintain that Iran has not made the political decision to weaponize its nuclear program. While uranium enrichment activities continue, they have not reached a threshold indicating imminent nuclear arms development.

The ongoing war has raised concerns among international observers, with legal experts warning that elements of the Israeli offensive may violate international law. As both sides continue exchanging fire, diplomatic efforts face severe obstacles, and fears grow of further escalation in an already volatile region.

By Uzair Adam 

Elon Musk, the world’s richest person and a former advisor to Donald Trump, admitted on Wednesday that he went too far in some of his social media criticisms of the US president after their public fallout last week.

“I regret some of my posts about President @realDonaldTrump last week. They went too far,” Musk posted on his social media platform X.

Musk’s apology came just days after Trump warned the billionaire of “serious consequences” if he tried to punish Republican lawmakers who supported a controversial spending bill.

Their dramatic split played out on social media last Thursday, when Musk harshly criticised Trump’s so-called “big, beautiful” spending bill, which Congress is considering.

Some Republican lawmakers opposed the bill and urged Musk, a major Republican financial backer in last year’s presidential election, to fund primary challenges against those who voted for it.

“He’ll have to pay very serious consequences if he does that,” Trump, who called Musk “disrespectful,” told NBC News on Saturday, though he did not specify the consequences.