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Ukraine-Russia: Max Air Begins Evacuation Of Stranded Nigerians Today

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Max Air on Tuesday confirmed that beginning from today (Wednesday), it would commence the evacuation of Nigerians who were left stranded by the Russia-Ukraine war.

But Air Peace, on the other hand, said it had not started the evacuation process, stressing that this would be made public soon.

The General Manager, Operations, Max Air, Raymond Omodiagbe, told our correspondent that the Federal Government had requested the airline to carry out the task and that the carrier was set to begin.

He said, “We have been assigned and we are on it. We’ve been airlifting pilgrims to Hajj and doing chartered operations for many years. So we are not new to this.

“So understand that we have been commissioned and we will depart tomorrow (Wednesday). We are operating tomorrow and it is to start bringing in the people.”

Asked to state the number of flights or airplanes that would be deployed for the operation, Omodiagbe replied, “We are doing it one at a time.”

When asked to state when Air Peace would start evacuating Nigerians as required by the Federal Government, a spokesperson of the airline, Stanley Olisa, said it would be communicated soon.

“We have not started but specifics will be disclosed soon,” he told our correspondent.

The Federal Government had on Monday said it would begin the evacuation of about 2,000 Nigerians who have fled the war in Ukraine to neighboring countries on Wednesday.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, who disclosed this in an interview on a Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’ program, revealed the President, Muhammadu Buhari, had approved funds for the airlines to evacuate Nigerians.

When asked if the number of evacuees was about 2,000, and when the evacuation would take place, he said, “Wednesday hopefully…Air Peace and Max Air.”

He said there were about 8,000 Nigerians in Ukraine, 5,000 of whom were students, adding that the Federal Government had tipped Air Peace and Air Max to airlift the Nigerians who wanted to be evacuated.

Earlier, Onyeama while briefing the House of Representatives on the evacuation efforts, he stated, “We made Romania the hub and over a thousand Nigerians have crossed there. Poland has about 250, Budapest in Hungary has a similar number, Slovakia is rising rapidly. It is also around 200. There are some Nigerians in a place called Sumy close to the Russian border.

“I have been in touch with the ambassador. There are about 150 of them who are looking to cross into Russia and we have asked the ambassador in Russia to try and get a permit for them to transit to Russia hopefully, by Wednesday we will start deploying planes to start bringing the Nigerians,” the minister said.

Onyeama argued that it was not the sole duty of the Federal Government to evacuate Nigerians that were stranded abroad because this was not the global practice. He said people who use their own money to travel abroad ought to be able to return home by themselves.

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NSA Ribadu Tells Canada To “Go To Hell” For Denying Military Chiefs Visas

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In a significant diplomatic snub, Canada has refused to grant visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, and several other senior military officers for an official event. Speaking on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at the first annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja, National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu voiced his dissatisfaction, telling Canada “to go to hell.”

The officials were scheduled to participate in a ceremony in Canada honoring war veterans, but only a part of the delegation was granted visas, sparking strong reactions from Nigerian authorities.

Ribadu and Musa discussed the matter at the inaugural lecture of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS). The event, attended by security experts and government officials, highlighted national security and international collaboration.

Ribadu labeled the visa denial as disrespectful, while Musa stressed that Nigeria needs to assert itself internationally and no longer be taken lightly. Musa reflected on how his team had been invited to the veterans’ event, only to be hit with an unexpected setback when some members of the delegation were denied entry. He viewed the incident as a reminder for Nigeria to bolster its independence and strength.

He stated, “Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada for an event to honor our veterans… half of us have gone, and half have been denied. It’s very disappointing. It’s a clear reminder that the country must stand on its own, stand strong as a nation, and should no longer be taken for granted.”

Ribadu commended Musa for his leadership in tackling security issues and underscored the importance of national advancement. He remarked, “Thank you for having the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell. Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful and strong, and I agree with you that it is time to fix our country.”

The visa rejection raises concerns about Canada’s position on Nigerian military officials and its broader diplomatic relationship with Nigeria. While the exact reasons for the denial remain unclear, the incident has shed light on the bureaucratic and political obstacles Nigerian officials face in international dealings.

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Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st Gears Up For Laffmattazz “About Time World Tour”

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Iconic Nigerian comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st, is set to embark on a global comedy tour, bringing laughter and excitement to fans around the world.

The Laffmattazz tagged “About Time World Tour” promises to be an unforgettable experience, featuring Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st’s unique brand of comedy and other amazing comedians.

The tour will kick off in Nigeria, with shows in Ibadan, Akure, Abeokuta, and Lagos.

From there, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st will take his comedy to the global stage, performing in the UK, Canada, and the USA.

“We are thrilled to announce the Laffmattazz World Tour, which promises to be an epic comedy experience,” said Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st.

When asked what his fans should expect, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st said “We have an amazing lineup of shows planned, and we can’t wait to bring laughter and joy to our fans around the world.”

The Laffmattazz World Tour is set to be a hilarious and entertaining experience, featuring Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st’s signature comedy style, which blends humor, storytelling, and audience interaction.

For more information on the Laffmattazz World Tour, including tour dates, venues, and ticket information, follow us on social media @gbengaadeyinka1stgcon @Laffmattazz_ga1st

Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #LaffmattazzWorldTour.

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Our Matriarch Has Returned To Her Creator

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With a heavy heart and complete submission to the will of Almighty Allah, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Mrs Mojisola Norinatu Adebayo Nee Adelakun who departed this world on the evening of Tuesday, February 11, 2025.

Fondly known as Iya Wale, she lived a remarkable 68years filled with love, kindness, and wisdom. She was a pillar of strength who taught us patience, tolerance, and, above all, the true essence of love. Her presence touched many lives, and her legacy of compassion will forever remain in our hearts.

Though my siblings and I deeply mourn her loss, we take solace in the knowledge that she has returned to her Creator. In accordance with Islamic rites, she was laid to rest on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

As we reflect on her impactful life, the family will hold the 8th Day Fidau prayers next week to honor her memory. We kindly ask for your prayers and support during this difficult time.

May Allah grant her eternal rest and admit her into Al-Jannah Firdaus.

 

Dr. Abiola Adebayo

For the Family

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