DECEMBER 06, 2023

By Okiki Adeduyite

The UK government has unveiled a comprehensive five-point plan in a bid to curb immigration.

Mixed reactions have trailed the plan, which encompasses various measures, such as prohibiting care workers from relocating with their families and increasing the minimum salary requirement for skilled worker visas.

Pressure is mounting on James Cleverly, who assumed the role of Home Secretary just three weeks ago, to demonstrate a firm stance on immigration.

“Enough is enough,” Cleverly told MPs on Monday. “Immigration policy must be fair, legal, and sustainable,” he said.

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According to Sky News, there is growing anger among Conservatives regarding the recent setback in the Supreme Court regarding the Rwanda deportation scheme.

PUNCH Online reports that the Court declared the British government’s proposal to send asylum seekers to Rwanda as illegal. If approved, the UK would have been able to send anyone who entered the country illegally to Rwanda.

Additionally, it has been revealed that net migration reached 745,000 last year.

1,180,000 individuals entered the UK with the intention of remaining for at least a year in the year that ended in June 2023, as reported by the BBC.

The latest figures by the UK Office of National Statistics shows that majority of people arriving the UK, about 968,000, are from non-EU countries.

The top five non-EU nationalities were:

• Indian (253,000)
• Nigerian (141,000)
• Chinese (89,000)
• Pakistani (55,000)
• Ukrainian (35,000)

The home secretary described the new policy as a “more robust” plan than any previous government’s stance on migration.

In this report, PUNCH Online explains the UK’s five-point plan to cut immigration:

• Health and care visas

A measure to put a stop to the “abuse of the health and care visa” has been proposed, which would prohibit overseas care workers from bringing their dependents. The government defines a dependant as a husband or wife, a civil partner or single partner, and children under the age of eighteen.

• Skilled worker visa minimum salary change

The minimum salary requirement for obtaining a skilled worker visa, currently set at £26,000, has been increased to £38,700. This is a 50% increase.

• Shortage occupation list

The Shortage Occupation list is a list that includes jobs that the UK government believes are hard to fill in the labour market for UK residents. These jobs have softer requirements for qualifying for sponsored work visas. However, that is about to change as a result of the new policy, which eliminates the 20% minimum wage reduction offered to those applying for a visa in Shortage Occupations.

Moreover, Cleverly said that the list would be trimmed and reviewed. The current list includes graphics designers, construction workers, vets, programmers, laboratory technicians, among others.

• Family visas

To further “ensure people only bring dependants whom they can support financially,” the minimum requirement for a family visa will also be increased to £38,700, from £18,600, the rate from 2012.

• Student Visas

“In total, this package, plus our reduction in students dependants, will mean around 300,000 fewer people will come in future years than have come to the UK last year,” Mr Cleverly told MPs.

The government has requested that the Migration Advisory Committee review the graduate route. So changes to the Students Visa are expected to be announced soon.

DECEMBER 06, 2023

BY  Angus Whitley, Bloomberg News

(Bloomberg) -- Air New Zealand Ltd. ordered an electric plane from an Amazon.com Inc.-backed startup as part of a plan to operate commercial flights with cleaner, next-generation aircraft in little more than two years.

The battery-powered plane from Beta Technologies takes off and lands like a normal jet and has flown as far as 500 kilometers (310 miles) in tests. Air New Zealand said Wednesday it plans to use it for short cargo flights in 2026, paving the way for larger, next-generation aircraft on normal domestic services from 2030.

Global aviation is racing to find ways of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050 after burning jet fuel with little restraint for more than half a century. Electric planes are one option for reducing emissions on shorter trips, though the technology isn’t yet viable for the long-haul flights that produce the bulk of aviation’s emissions.

Read More: It’s Boom Times for Startups Trying to Electrify Aviation 

Air New Zealand has options to buy two more of the ALIA aircraft from Beta, and has rights to purchase a further 20. A different version of the plane takes off and lands vertically like a helicopter.

Read More: Airlines to Hand Passengers $5 Trillion Bill for Greener Travel

The airline plans to operate initial flights with the ALIA on routes of around 150 kilometers. The plane is just over 12 meters long and will fly at speeds of as much as 270 kilometers an hour. Its battery is expected to take no more than one hour to recharge.

DECEMBER 08, 2023

BY  Chinedu Eze

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has disclosed that over 3.6 million Nigerians migrated to other countries within a space of two years.

The Controller, Murtala Muhammed International Airport Command, Mrs. Adeola Adesola Adesokan, disclosed this in a speech during the facility tour of the remodeled ‘E Wing Arrival’ at the airport.

She said data from NIS’s Migration Information Data Analysis System (MIDAS), showed that about 2, 115, 139 persons emigrated from Nigeria in 2022, while 1, 574, 357 left the country from January to September 31,2023, making it a total of 3,679, 496 that have left Nigeria in the last two years.

It was learnt most of the migrants left for greater opportunities overseas due to economic hardship, while some secured admission for further studies.

Adesokan also disclosed that since the Tinubu administration, more investors have been coming into the country adding that about 700 foreign investors apply for visa on arrival every day, a figure she described as encouraging, and higher than what used to be previously obtained.

She disclosed that visa on arrival of the Nigeria Immigration Service has been upgraded and made easier for those who intend to invest in Nigeria.

“In terms of visa on arrival, if you are coming into Nigeria, you have to apply first, and somebody has to recognise and acknowledge you in Nigeria. Sometime ago, we shut down the service in order to upgrade it. We carried out maintenance that will allow you to upload within the comfort of your house, your pictures, put all your documents in the system, pay online and when you pay online, we will be able to see it before you arrive here. And that makes the system seamless. But you know, most times, people want to come and start the process here, which is cumbersome and it will waste your quality time. So, with this visa on arrival, the systems are already waiting and also being in use. It will ease the problem of people coming, particularly the investors don’t want to stay for so long on the queue standing and waiting. The ambience of the place will also enable them to feel comfortable, and they will be processed faster,” Adesokan said.

She further explained that visa on arrival applicants go through serious screening by immigration officials and if the applicants meet the criteria, they are given visa on arrival and because of the new system at the E Arrival, MMIA, the applicants would spend less than 20 minutes before the would receive their visa because the process has been completed before their arrival.

She said that visa on arrival is strictly for businessmen who wish to invest in the country and also for expatriate with special skills who are needed by organisations in Nigeria.

“If you apply for a visa on arrival, we will check whether you have local objections, if there is no local objection, you are permitted. Not everybody is qualified for it. It is meant for investors, special professionals and others who meet similar criteria. We have categories whereby the Nigerian Immigration Service has spelt out conditions for visa on arrival. The first one is for business travellers who are moving and investors who want to come and invest in this nation. So if you don’t fall into these categories and you apply for it, you will be rejected and even if you are coming as a businessman, there are procedures, you have to upload your business CAC (Corporate Affairs Commission) form, the company you want to meet here. That is, the company inviting you, If they do not have that, you are not expected to be granted approval,” she explained.

“Another category of those that could be given visa on arrival are citizens from some countries in Africa. These countries also give Nigeria visa on arrival and Nigeria reciprocates the gesture. Besides, there is a growing disposition to give Africans visa on arrival, those who meet other conditions in terms of security, good citizen record and others. 

“The fourth category is the African nationals. Because we have an agreement under the previous administration that Africans who come to Nigeria can receive a visa on arrival. Those are the people who are qualified. They are on this automatic approval in the principle of reciprocity. Of course, those that belong to Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS) can come to Nigeria without visa. Those are the people that qualify and they do that for us, too,” Adesokan said.

She insisted that there is upsurge of investors coming into Nigeria since the Tinubu administration, “because many foreigners are interested in investing in Nigeria because of the campaign the President has been mounting to canvass for more investment in Nigeria, which has taken him out of the country many times since he was sworn in.

“This year, since the advent of this new administration we have seen an upsurge of visa on arrival. We record an average of like 700 requests in a day. People have been coming in. We have seen people coming in; I think the president has been going to many nations, asking people to come and they have been responding.”

“So we saw that people are coming to explore; for example the German people they came. We have been receiving people coming into the country and I’m sure they are here for business purposes. That’s the surge we realized,” she said.

On the remodeled the ‘E Arrival ‘of the airport, Adesokan said it had the biggest capacity, more than the ‘D Arrival ‘and disclosed that the Nigeria Immigration Service initiated the plan to remodel the facility and collaborated with NNPC Limited and Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCO).

“This project was initiated by the Nigerian Immigration Service in collaboration with NNPC/ SNEPCO. They were there for us. We are partnering with them. Government cannot build a nation all by itself. So, collaborating in terms of CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) with corporate bodies and organizations will be so helpful to build this nation. This nation is all ours and we need to do it rightly,” she added.

DECEMBER 08, 2023

By Wole Oyebade

Airfare hurdles await domestic travellers this festive season as local airlines have again doubled airfares on high-traffic seasonal routes.

The airfare that surged to an average of N100,000 per one-hour Economy flight ticket in October, has hit N200,000 for flights on the East and Southern routes. Its round-trip variant now sells for between N350,000 and almost half a million, subject to seat availability.

The Guardian learnt that the fresh spike is not unconnected with a high cost of operation, limited capacity, high demand that is typical of this period, and alleged exploitation.

Findings across the airlines, yesterday, showed that the average fare of N70,000 for a one-hour (one-way) flight in early October has increased to between N120,500, and N270,000, depending on the airline and time of booking.

On Air Peace, for instance, the Lagos-Anambra flight travel date, in the week ahead of Christmas, yesterday sold at N171,500 for one-way. After Christmas, it sells for an average of N66,900. Lagos-Enugu flight ranges between N123,900 and N266,800, one-way.

Lagos-Enugu flight on United Nigeria Airline (UNA) is competitive, ranging between N125,500 and N220,500 per seat. Lagos-Anambra on UNA also sold at between N142,500 and N200,000. Abuja-Anambra in United Nigeria ranged between N142,500 and N220,500.

Meanwhile, flights on the traditional routes of Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano remain in the range of N100,000, and N160,000

The Guardian earlier reported that the steady free-fall of the naira value to dollar would keep registering new odd records in the air transport sector. With aviation fuel now almost N1000/litre, operators cum travel agencies are in a pricing dilemma.

Amid a hike in the exchange rate, domestic carriers have since last year seen aviation fuel steadily rise by 400 per cent (in the last three years) and the cost of operations unbearable.

Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, who also doubles as the spokesperson of the Airlines Operators of Nigeria (AON), noted that domestic airfares, for so long, did not tag along with hikes in fuel price, FX and other cost of operations, just for the affordability of the public.

Okonkwo said: “We are subsidizing the cost of seats per flight. So, if you see fare increases now, please understand. They may still be higher because we are not covering the cost of operations. The little adjustment is to serve the public better. It is better to fly safe, be viable and remain in business than just flying cheap and risk collapse,” Okonkwo said.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Aero Contractors, Capt. Ado Sanusi, however, blamed the fares on airlines that have monopolised some of the Eastern routes, due to low capacity.

Sanusi said some airfares on some routes are exploitative, citing the South-east and South-south routes.

He proposed increased capacity and canvassed additional airlines to join the existing operators.

“I believe that there are some exploitative tendencies and prices. I believe so, especially on the monopoly routes. The eastern routes are somehow monopolised and come with exploitative prices.

“It’s the capacity. If we have more airlines coming into the country and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) allows more airlines to fly, then it will bring the price down.

“The more airlines we have flying, the more competitive it becomes and the more the prices will go down, but since we make regulations that are so hostile to start-up airlines, then, the prices will always go up.”

The operators have routinely criticised the CAA’s policy that mandates scheduled local carriers to have a minimum of six aircraft fleet, to ease flight delays and cancellations.

DECEMBER 08, 2023

By Oyetunji Abioye

…Lagos, Abuja airports fees highest amid poor infrastructure

The International Air Transport Association has warned the Central Bank of Nigeria that some foreign airlines may be forced to quit the Nigerian markets if nothing is done about the $790m ticket revenue currently trapped in the country.

The IATA Regional Vice President, Africa & Middle East, Kamil Alawadhi, at a media presentation with African journalists at the IATA Global Media Day in Geneva, Switzerland, on Thursday also said Lagos and Abuja airports had been ranked the most expensive gateways in the region despite the poor state of their infrastructure.

According to him, the Nigerian government is currently holding the highest amount of airline-trapped funds.

On blocked funds, the IATA VP listed Nigeria as the country with the highest amount of airlines’ blocked funds at $792m followed by Egypt ($348m); Algeria ($199m); AFI zone ($183m) and Ethiopia $128mn.

While Ethiopia has mapped out a strategy to defray the debt, he said that Nigeria had yet to do anything on its own.

Al-Awadhi said, “Ethiopia is seeking a way to resolve this issue even though the blocked fund is rising. The first step for us to solve these blocked funds is for both parties to engage. If parties don’t engage, it is very difficult to move forward. I have not been able to engage with Nigeria’s CBN Governor. He said he would engage with me when he had a solution. He is not promising but I have engaged with the Aviation Minister who is very understanding, new to the position, or maybe wowed by the situation he inherited will help to resolve the matter.”

“The airlines in Africa are owed $34 million. That $34 million is blocked. Depreciation has set in on the money. They have already lost $10 million because of depreciation. That is not fair for the airlines because they have paid all the dues to the operators of the airports. Every due has been paid for. They carry Nigerian officials on these flights and they can’t get their money.

On the state of aviation in Nigeria, the IATA boos said with 25 per cent interest on loans, high airport taxes and insurance premiums which it said was six times more than anywhere in the world, it would be difficult for Nigerian airlines to make profit.

According to Al-Awadhi, any airline in Nigeria operating outside of Nigeria has a cheaper operating cost and better prices than Nigerian airlines.

He said, “Every airline has its challenges and it depends on where it operates. To answer this question, I will use Nigeria as an example. Nigeria has two most expensive airports; their fuel is higher than elsewhere in the world, and insurance is six times more expensive than anywhere else in the world.”

“The interest on loans is 25%. It is ridiculous. It is the highest interest I have ever seen. When you set up these airlines, you are already disadvantaged. Any airline in Nigeria operating outside of Nigeria has a cheaper operating cost and better prices than Nigerian airlines. You can see why it is difficult for African airlines to make profit.

He added, “IATA is identifying why these costs are high and we are trying to tackle them one by one by seeing how they can reduce the costs. We are expecting that the operating costs of the African airlines will be lowered and they can become profitable”, said Al-Awadhi.

IATA is identifying why these costs are high and we are trying to tackle them one by one by seeing how they can reduce the costs, hoping that the operating costs of the African airlines will be lowered and they can become profitable. “

DECEMBER 08, 2023

Nigeria, Seychelles and Saudi Arabia have begun talks on direct flights and hajj operations of each respective countries.

During the ongoing 15th International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Air Services Negotiation (ICAN2023), Festus Keyamo, the Aviation Minister, held crucial meetings with counterparts from Saudi Arabia and Seychelles, as revealed in a statement by the Ministry in Abuja.

These discussions focused on improving Hajj operations and establishing direct air links between the nations.

In a meeting with Anthony Derjacques, the Minister of Transport of the Republic of Seychelles, Keyamo discussed implementating the recently signed Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between the two nations.

Both ministers agreed to fast-track the BASA implementation and establish direct flights between Nigeria and Seychelles, enhancing trade and tourism opportunities.

Initiatives to expedite the process involve the ongoing ratification of BASA by Nigeria’s Ministry of Justice, collaborative efforts on immigration procedures to ensure seamless passenger travel and the appointment of focal officers from both countries to supervise the implementation.

The minister expressed his commitment to collaborate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigeria Immigration Service to conduct thorough profiling of individuals intending to visit Seychelles from Nigeria, aiming to prevent entry by those with malicious intentions.

Derjacques highlighted that the existing BASA, inked during the 2022 ICAN meeting in Abuja, Nigeria, had not yet been operationalized.

He clarified that the signed BASA instrument was deposited with Seychelles’ parliament for ratification.

Emphasizing the need to initiate direct flights between Seychelles and Nigeria, he suggested chartered or scheduled operations, noting the readiness of Seychelles to welcome genuine visitors to its tourism and aquatic attractions.

In a separate meeting with Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailj, the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia, Keyamo addressed critical issues relating to the 2023 Hajj season.

The discussion included the performance of Nigerian airlines, challenges faced, outstanding payments, and preparations for 2024.

The outcome of the meeting involved a commitment from both parties to collaborate for future flawless and seamless Hajj operations.

The key agreed-upon actions include the establishment of a joint committee, focusing on settling outstanding payments to Nigerian airlines, and enhancing communication and coordination between aviation authorities of both countries.

DECEMBER 08, 2023

By Ezra Ukanwa, Abuja

In a major boost to the Nigerian aviation sector, NG Eagle Airline, has announced commencement of its operations today, aiming to offer enhanced connectivity and convenience to travelers.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Managing Director, NG Eagle Airline, Capt. Dare, yesterday in Abuja.

He said the move is to bridge the gap in domestic travel by not only providing affordable fares but also offering top-notch services.

Capt Dare said that the launch is coming despite the unforeseen obstacles that led to a delayed launch since 2019, however, the Airline has navigated these challenges with unwavering commitment and perseverance.

He added that the airline has diligently worked to address the issues, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to transparency and accountability and providing reliable, high-quality air travel services.

He said: “We understand that our initial setbacks may have led to concerns, and we appreciate the patience and support of our valued stakeholders.

“Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure all our systems and processes are in place, and we are thrilled to announce that NG Eagle Airline is now ready to take flight – connecting you to the people and places that matter the most to you.

“We have used this time to enhance our processes, define our services after analyzing the needs and pain points of the customers; and with these, we have strengthened our operational capabilities.

“We are confident that our passengers will appreciate the offerings we have developed for them and choose NG Eagle Airline for their travel needs”, he added.

He added that the Airline’s commitment to safety, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence remains paramount.

DECEMBER 09, 2023

Bennett  Oghifo

The Nigerian used car market is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, currently valued at USD 1.14 billion, according to Modor intelligence.

The market is influenced by a myriad of factors, ranging from economic conditions to technological advancements.

It’s important for buyers, sellers, and key players to anticipate the trends that will shape the industry in the coming year as we set our sights on 2024.

Tech-driven Transparency:

Advancements in technology are fostering transparency in the used car market, providing buyers with a wealth of information. Online platforms and apps are enabling consumers to access detailed vehicle histories, reducing the risk of fraudulent transactions. Based on McKinsey’s findings, over 95% of searches for used cars commence online, as customers delve into vehicle details while making a purchase decision. This is a sure indication of users increasing trust and reliance on these online used car buying and selling platforms.

Shift Towards Online Transactions:

The convenience of online transactions continues to impact the used car market. More buyers are opting for online platforms like Cars45, Carmart, and Jiji to browse, negotiate, and finalise deals. The global push for contactless transactions further accelerates this. Also, the rising internet penetration rate in Nigeria which was up to 55.4% in January 2023, and urbanisation, are fostering an efficient ecosystem. This enables vehicle owners to connect with buyers across regions, streamlining online sales without physical visits.

Increasing Demand for Used Sedan Cars:

Consumers currently favour sedan vehicles over SUVs and MPVs due to their more affordable pricing. As of June 2023, top-selling used sedan models included the Toyota Corolla, Toyota Camry, and Honda Accord. Japanese, South Korean, and European sedan cars were particularly popular among Nigerian consumers. According to Mordor Intelligence, the rising price of petrol in Nigeria is a key factor influencing the higher demand for used sedans. 

This is because these cars give better mileage than SUVs and MPVs, making them a popular choice.

Rise of Electric Vehicles (EVs):

With the global shift towards sustainability, Nigeria is not immune to the rising interest in electric vehicles. The Director of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), stated in a publication that by 2025, 30% of passenger cars driven in the country will be electric-powered. While the adoption of EVs in the new car market is still in its early stages, the global used car market is expected to witness a surge in the availability of pre-owned electric vehicles in 2024.

Emphasis on Vehicle Health and Condition:

Buyers are becoming more discerning. They emphasise the importance of well-maintained vehicles when considering a purchase. On the other hand, sellers who invest in proper maintenance and provide detailed service records will likely have a competitive edge. This is evident on platforms like Cars45 where they’re recorded to have sold over 26,000 cars and currently inspect 1500+ cars monthly across Nigeria. Consequently, customers who inspect their cars through them are able to sell within 24hrs through the platform’s network of buyers.

As we approach 2024, the Nigerian used car market is surely positioned for a boom. From the increasing reliance on technology to the emphasis on vehicle health and condition, these trends will influence the way buyers and sellers navigate the roads ahead. Staying informed about these trends and leveraging the power of technology will be key for all stakeholders in this vibrant and evolving market.

DECEMBER 09, 2023

By  Bridget Chiedu Onochie  (Abuja), Lawrence Njoku (Enugu),  Gbenga Akinfenwa, Ijeoma Thomas-Odia (Lagos), SaxoneAkhaine  (Kaduna) and Moyosore Salami (Ibadan)

• Focus On Payment Of Children’s School Fees In 2024
• Beg Tinubu To Ameliorate Economic Hardship
• Lament As Bag Of Rice Costs N60, 000

Sixteen days to this year’s Christmas, many Nigerians have said they do not have plans to travel out of their locations to mark the season as a result of insecurity, high cost of transportation and the general economic hardship in the country.  

 
They blamed the situation on the removal of fuel subsidy and weakening of the naira, which have drastically eroded their purchasing powers. Many of the citizens who spoke lamented that the usual activities leading to the festivity, like street and office decorations as well as increased shopping by individuals and households, are not visible due to the economic situation in the country. They urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to initiate measures to alleviate the suffering of the masses.

The Guardian had yesterday reported that local airlines had again doubled airfares on high-traffic seasonal routes. According to the report, the airfare that surged to an average of N100,000 per one-hour Economy flight ticket in October, had hit N200,000 for flights on the East and Southern routes. Its round-trip variant, the report said, sold for between N350,000 and almost half a million, subject to seat availability. It also revealed that the fresh spike was not unconnected with the high cost of operation, limited capacity, high demand that is typical of this period and alleged exploitation.
 
The report disclosed that on Air Peace, for instance, the Lagos-Anambra flight travel date, in the week ahead of Christmas, last Thursday, sold at N171,500 for one-way. After Christmas, it sells for an average of N66,900. Lagos-Enugu flight ranges between N123,900 and N266,800, one-way.
Lagos-Enugu flight on United Nigeria Airline (UNA) is competitive, ranging between N125,500 and N220,500 per seat. Lagos-Anambra on UNA also sold at between N142,500 and N200,000. Abuja-Anambra in United Nigeria ranged between N142,500 and N220,500.

Meanwhile, flights on the traditional routes of Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano remain in the range of N100,000, and N160,000. There is a similar trend in the road transport sector as findings by The Guardian showed that transport firms that ply the Eastern routes have jerked up their fares and are now charging between N25, 000 and N30, 000 per trip. It was gathered that the fares would still go up from December 15 when travellers begin to troop out, as was the case in previous years.

  
Meanwhile, there are indications that many Nigerians may not be able to afford celebrating this year’s festivity with rice as the price of the staple food has jumped beyond the reach of average citizen.

Last September, The Guardian had predicted imminent hike in the price of rice, a popular staple food in Nigeria, following the shut down of rice mills in major states producing the commodity in the country. Currently, a 50kg bag of rice, which sold for between N40, 000 and N45, 000 in September, now costs between N53, 000 and N60, 000, depending on the brand, across markets.
 
There are fears that the price may still increase, as more mills are closing down due to scarcity of paddy, the main raw material for rice production. There are reports that hundreds of millers, both integrated and small scale, were finding it extremely difficult to break even due to the tough economic condition of the country.  
 
It was learnt that in Kano State, some of the rice mills had shut down while millers in Kebbi, Kaduna, Adamawa and other rice-producing states are toeing that path. It was also gathered that the shortage of paddy is behind the hike in the price of rice. Due to the shortage of paddy, there is more demand and less production, hence shortage of supply and consequently the hike in the price of the commodity.
 
Speaking with The Guardian in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Very Rev Ugochukwu Sylvester Madu of the Methodist Church, Nigeria, Kubwa Branch, stated that as a Christian who understands the significance of the season, he was excitedly preparing for the Christmas celebrations. He, however, stated that he would not travel for the season as usual because of the high cost of transportation.
 
“I am preparing for Christmas because I understand the implications, and as a Christian, it is expected that we celebrate the advent of our Messiah. It is a symbolic celebration that impacts our faith spiritually and physically,” Madu said.
 
On whether or not he would travel to his home state or another location for the celebration, he said that embarking on a journey, especially across states now, required careful planning and budgeting.
 
“I did travel before but now, I don’t because the economic indicators are so bad. I have prepared to do my Christmas celebration here in Abuja. The cost of transportation now is so high that any trip one has to make should be carefully and properly budgeted and planned for,” he said. The cleric noted that many families would miss the traditional reunion, where issues relating to development are discussed.
 
“We are going to miss family and community reunions and meetings where we discuss community development and security issues. This year is really going to suffer a setback as many are crying out over the level of hardship.
 
“Also, a lot of people have died from hunger, lack of medical care and through self-medication in order to cut costs. People are roaming the streets begging for food. It is terrible.
 
“I am also afraid that criminality will be on the increase because people will want to meet up.

 
“Cost of living is so high now. Nigerians are afraid of what the market will look like next week. Nothing is coming down. How do we cope with our children if we cannot buy them little things for their celebration?  I feel the economic situation of Nigeria needs urgent attention by the government,” he said.
 
Another resident of the FCT, Mrs. Kemi Akiode, stated that for her, the preparation for this year’s Christmas was slow-paced unlike the previous years. She said she was sure of food and new clothes for the celebration but had no plan to travel out of the city.
 
“My preparation for Christmas is slow-paced unlike other years, though there will be food and clothes to celebrate life. Nonetheless, I am not travelling this year. I intend to stay in Abuja with my family. 
 
“The only fear I have for this year’s Christmas is the current inflation in the market, but in all, we keep praying to God for provision,” she said.
A civil servant in Lagos State, Precious Eze, said she had no special plans for this year’s Christmas, adding that she was looking forward to surviving the rest of the year.
 
“I don’t think there’s any special plans for me and my family, considering the economy. We have battled cash crunch, fuel hike and foreign exchange crisis over the months and all I have to say is that surviving the rest of the year is all we look forward to. Usually, we travel to celebrate the season, but we have not done so in two years, considering the insecurity challenges in the East, where I come from. I have only travelled once in two years for a burial ceremony and got back almost immediately.
 
 “I hope that this season will be fair enough for us all, because even prices of food and the cost of transportation are on the rise. So, it will take proper planning to travel this season.”
  
Mr. Tony Ekeh, a businessman, said he would spend the season connecting with family and friends he hasn’t reached out to for some time. He ruled out travelling for the celebrations.
 
“I will rather reach out to people I consider family members this season and share the little I have and be merry. We have had a lot going on this year and I am only grateful to God for seeing us through.

 
“I will focus on the basics, which is ensuring that I have funds for payment of house rent and my children’s school fees. The season will go away in a flick and reality will begin to dawn. The economy is no longer giving room for frivolities. I used to hang out with friends almost every week but I have reduced the frequency due to the economic situation. So, I don’t have plans to travel nor do I have any specific plans this season,” Ekeh said.
  
In Ibadan, Oyo State, a civil servant, Kemi Agboola, said her preparations for the season were being guided by the economic reality of the moment.  
 “This year, I’ve made the decision not to travel, recognising the financial constraints that many are facing. Staying local allows me to be more budget-conscious while prioritising the essence of the season, spending quality time with those who matter most,” she said.
 
Also, Mr. Tunde Bakare said as he eagerly prepared for Christmas, the anticipated joy for the season was somewhat being shadowed by rising costs of commodities, including petrol.
 
Bakare added that his desire to connect with loved ones to enjoy the Christmas season motivated him to find a balance between prudent spending and meaningful experiences that make the season special.
 
In Kaduna State, many residents who spoke with The Guardian said they had decided to shelve travelling to their hometowns for this year’s yuletide, following the high cost of transportation, food items, clothing materials, beverages, drinks, and gift items, which made past Christmas celebrations memorable.
 
A motor parts dealer at the Pateka Market in Kaduna, Chuks Obinna, said preparation for this year’s Christmas was poor. “Since the removal of the fuel subsidy by the government, motor parts business has been so bad. My family members have been managing to feed, pay house rent, children’s school fees. We can’t talk of going to our hometown in Abia for the Christmas.
 
“Life has not been easy. I have told my wife and four children to manage their old dresses for Christmas. And the little money available we will use it to cook on Christmas day and celebrate it here in Kaduna. I have also informed my people at home that we will not come down to celebrate Christmas in the village this year,” Obinna said.
 
Kayode Yekini, a tailor at Jos Road and Kefas Luka, a teacher in one of the secondary schools in Kaduna metropolis, also lamented that hard times would not allow them to celebrate Christmas the way they would have loved to.

 
Yekini said that the economic policies of the President Bola Tinubu administration had brought poverty upon Nigerians. “In my family, we cannot even talk of celebrating Christmas the way we did in past years with fanfare. Imagine, I cannot even afford to buy new clothes and shoes for my children and wife as a tailor. We have to manage second hand dresses this year. This is what the government has turned some of us into in celebrating this year’s Christmas.”
 
Luka, a native of Zonkwa in Zangon Kataf, stated: “In the past, all my family members used to go home to celebrate Christmas and the New Year. But as things stand today, we cannot afford to travel home for Christmas because of the high cost of transportation.” He urged the Federal Government to look into the hardship Nigerians are facing, and address the economic situation to make life meaningful for the people.
 
Speaking with The Guardian in Enugu, a father of three, Mr. Ikenna Eneh, stated that he did not feel as if Christmas is approaching. “There is nothing on ground to herald the celebrations. I am yet to hear any Christmas jingle being played anywhere. Before now, there would have been various decorations by residents and even business owners to herald the season. This is not happening. This is to show you that all is not well,” he said. On how he was preparing for the season, he stated that he was more concerned about the bills awaiting him by January next year.
 
“The rise in the price of petrol is seriously eating deep into my pockets. I stopped using my car in August this year. I cannot afford the price of fuel. My wife and I have three children. If I had been fuelling my car, probably my family would be starving today. So, I don’t have resources to plan for Christmas. I cannot even travel. But what is important is that we are alive and this may not be our last Christmas, God giving us life. Some day, we will have cause to join in the celebrations,” he stated.
 
A trader in Ogbete Main Market, Mrs. Joy Uwaga, shared a similar feeling: “I don’t think I will be part of the celebration this year. Things are just difficult for me. All we do now is find food and eat. 
 
“I have school fees to pay. I have just been given over N100,000.00 bill to pay for the registration of my child’s WAEC and NECO. She is in SS3. This is aside from her school fee. So, I need to pay this money and look for other fees before thinking of Christmas,” she said.  

 
Uwaga, who noted that “business has been so poor”, lamented: “It is just by the grace of God that we are still feeding. So, Christmas celebration, for me this year, is a bleak one. I am not pretending about it. Where do you want me to start?”
  
But from Mr. Peter Dalang, a resident of the FCT, it was news of preparations for the season being in top gear. Dalang, who said he had plans to travel to his state by road, expressed fear over insecurity. 
 
“The preparation for Christmas is going well but not as seamless as in previous years. I am travelling home. I am traveling by road to Plateau State though scared because of insecurity. But I will travel anyway.  
 
“Christmas is very interesting in my village – the dance, wrestling and meeting old friends. I won’t miss that for anything. I don’t have any fear for this year’s Christmas; it will come and we will relish it amid the raging storm,” he said.
 
Also in Ibadan, Mr. John Chibuzor, said that despite the challenges posed by bad roads, traffic and the issue of kidnapping, he would still travel to reunite with family and friends.
 
“Despite these challenges, the spirit of Christmas and the desire to be with my family motivate me to travel to my hometown for Christmas. It is disheartening to face the realities of bad roads and the uncertainties but the prospect of being together with loved ones during this festive season encourages me to forge ahead,” Chibuzor said.

DECEMBER 10, 2023

BY Tracy Withers, Bloomberg News

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 17: Australia’s officials help passengers at Heathrow as they are repatriated from Israel, on October 17, 2023 in London, England. Australian nationals are flying home from London Heathrow after leaving Israel last week following the Hamas surprise attack on Israel last Saturday which left 1300 dead and 199 people taken hostage. (Photo by Peter Nicholls/Getty Images) , Photographer: Peter Nicholls/Getty Images Europe

(Bloomberg) -- Australia’s government will outline a plan next week to reduce immigration, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.

“The new strategy we’ll announce will bring immigration back to sustainable levels,” he told reporters Saturday in Sydney. “We need to have a migration system that enables Australia to get the skills that we need, but make sure the system is working in the interests of all Australians.”

Australia’s surging population has boosted demand for everything from housing to transport and dining out, stoking inflation pressures but also helping the economy avoid a recession. The central bank estimates population growth, following a surge in post-Covid immigration, accelerated to a peak of 2.5% in the third quarter of this year.

Albanese said Treasury projections released in the mid-year economic and fiscal update next week will show migration dropping substantially in the year ahead. He declined to give specific targets.

Asked if the government could get net arrivals back to pre-pandemic levels, he said the administration has done a lot of analysis of the problem.

“We believe that it is certainly not just possible, but desirable and necessary that we ensure these levels are sustainable,” he said.

Albanese said a review of the immigration system showed it was “broken” and had been neglected. In October, the government said it wanted to tackle related fraud and exploitation, particularly abuse of student visas. It has also been making efforts to reduce lengthy visa-processing delays.  

Australia to Crack Down on ‘Systemic’ Visa Fraud, Exploitation

Albanese reiterated that his government wants to ensure that businesses can access the skills it needs, adding that the preferred way was to train Australians first, and then to target foreign workers.

“It makes no sense for Australia to advocate to have temporary migrants with temporary visas,”, he said. “If we can get an engineer with skills and give them a path to permanency so that they contribute here in areas that we know have had skill shortages over such a long period of time, then that is critical.”