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UNITED STATES-IMMIGRATION – Haitian group welcomes push for House vote on Dream and Promise Act

The San Diego-based Haitian Bridge Alliance (HBA) has welcomed a move by Texas Democratic Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia to force a US House vote on the bipartisan American Dream and Promise Act.

Garcia has launched a discharge petition that, if signed by 218 House members, would bypass Republican leadership and bring the legislation to the floor.

HBA Executive Director Guerline Jozef said the bill would provide long-overdue protections for Dreamers, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) recipients.

‘These individuals have worked, raised families, paid taxes, and strengthened this country,’ Jozef said. ‘Congress must act to ensure families are not torn apart and provide a permanent path forward.’

The legislation would create a pathway to citizenship for eligible Dreamers and allow qualifying TPS and DED recipients to obtain lawful permanent resident status. It has previously passed the House with bipartisan support in 2019 and 2021.

Garcia said the measure is urgently needed, arguing that Dreamers and longtime TPS holders are increasingly at risk of detention and deportation under the Trump administration.

The initiative has also received backing from Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette Clarke, Congressional Hispanic Caucus Chairman Adriano Espaillat, and immigration advocacy group FWD.us, all of whom urged lawmakers from both parties to sign the petition and allow the House to vote on the legislation.

Transcorp Hotels records N13.7b profit in first half

Transcorp Hotels Plc recorded considerable improvement in profitability in the first half, with pre-tax profit rising to N13.7 billion within the six-month period.

Key extracts of the interim report and accounts of Transcorp Hotels for the first half ended June 30, 2026 released at the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) showed that profit before tax rose from N12.2 billion to N13.7 billion. Net profit after taxes grew by 21 per cent from N8.7 billion to N10.5 billion. Total revenue stood at N44.4 billion in first half 2026 compared with N46.9 billion in comparable period of 2025.

The company’s operating expense margin improved by three percentage points, demonstrating continued operational efficiency and prudent cost management.

Managing Director, Transcorp Hotels Plc, Uzoamaka Oshogwe said the first half 2026 results validated Transcorp Hotels’ resilience and focus on operational excellence, cost efficiency, and customer-centric innovation, reinforcing its leadership in Nigeria’s hospitality sector.

She said: ‘Our second quarter 2026 performance reflects the resilience of our business and the disciplined execution of our strategy in a dynamic operating environment. While market conditions remained challenging, we continued to deliver strong profitability by staying focused on operational excellence, commercial agility, and creating exceptional experiences for our guests.

‘We remain committed to strengthening our market leadership, investing strategically in our business, and delivering sustainable long-term value for our shareholders’.

Chief Finance Officer, Transcorp Hotels Plc, Oluwatobiloba Ojediran, said the company’s disciplined approach to cost management, revenue optimisation, and operational execution was responsible for the double digit growth in pre and post tax profits.

‘These strong financial results reinforce the resilience of our business, provide a solid platform for sustainable growth, and position us to continue investing strategically while delivering long-term value for our shareholders,’ Ojediran said.

He noted that beyond the numbers, Transcorp Hotels continues to strengthen its portfolio of iconic assets with Transcorp Hilton Abuja remaining one of the company’s flagship properties, while Transcorp Centre, one of West Africa’s largest purpose-built event and conference venues, is fast becoming a landmark for business, tourism, and world-class events in Nigeria.Since its launch, Transcorp Centre has hosted several landmark gatherings, further cementing its position as a premier venue for high-profile corporate and social gatherings.

Transcorp Hotels Plc is the hospitality subsidiary of Transnational Corporation Plc, one of Africa’s leading listed companies with strategic investments in the power, hospitality, and energy sectors.

Senator Wamakko flags off N11.84bn Gidanmadi-Binji-Gande road project

The Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sokoto State and former Governor of the state, Senator Dr. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, has flagged off the construction of the 35.7-kilometer Gidanmadi-Binji-Gande Road Project, valued at N11,836,593,885.14, describing it as another milestone in the ongoing transformation of Sokoto State under the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto.

The project, which is being executed through a partnership between the Sokoto State Government and the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), forms part of activities marking the third anniversary of Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Ahmed Aliyu expressed delight over the commencement of the strategic road project and warmly welcomed Senator Wamakko, thanking him for honouring the invitation to perform the flag-off ceremony.

The Governor explained that the project is being financed under RAAMP, a joint initiative of the World Bank and the Sokoto State Government.

He disclosed that the 35.7-kilometer road traverses Gidanmadi, Tatali, Binji, Miyuki, Bunkidi, Gidan Magaji and Gande, cutting across Tangaza, Binji and Silame Local Government Areas.

According to him, the project includes the construction of hydraulic structures, a 30-millimetre asphaltic wearing course, surface dressing, road shoulders, and road furniture to ensure durability, safety and improved accessibility.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu noted that the road is one of several strategic infrastructure projects being implemented through partnerships with development partners to complement the numerous township and rural road projects currently under construction across the state.

He recalled that since assuming office, his administration has completed and commissioned several township and rural roads in Silame, Binji, Gada, Wurno, Kware, Tambuwal, Wamakko, Dange-Shuni and Rabah, among other local government areas, to improve transportation, facilitate commerce and enhance access to essential social services.

The Governor observed that the benefiting communities are predominantly agrarian and stressed that the road would enable farmers to transport their produce to markets more easily, reduce post-harvest losses and improve access to healthcare, education and other essential services.

He charged the contractor, supervising engineers, consultants, and the entire project team to adhere strictly to the approved specifications and complete the project within the stipulated timeframe, emphasizing that quality and timely delivery remain paramount.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to implementing people-oriented projects across every part of the state and appealed to the people to continue supporting and praying for the government as it sustains its development agenda.

He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to Sokoto State through the execution of major federal government infrastructure projects, including the Sokoto-Gusau Road and the Badagry-Sokoto Super Highway.

In his remarks, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko thanked Almighty Allah for witnessing another important milestone in the development of Sokoto State and commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for inviting him to perform the flag-off ceremony.

He praised the governor’s commitment to executing people-centered projects across key sectors, including road infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, water supply and security, noting that the administration has consistently demonstrated that the welfare of the people remains at the centre of its policies and programmes.

The former governor stated that Governor Ahmed Aliyu had justified the confidence reposed in him, recalling that some critics had questioned his capacity because of his age before assuming office.

‘Today, Alhamdulillah, you have silenced those critics through your outstanding performance. Within just three years, you have demonstrated exceptional leadership, and I remain proud of your achievements.

‘I am confident that even greater accomplishments lie ahead, In Sha Allah.’

Senator Wamakko said the Gidanmadi-Binji-Gande Road Project would open up rural communities, facilitate the movement of people and agricultural produce, stimulate commercial activities, and improve the socio-economic well-being of residents across the benefiting communities.

He also commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s social intervention programmes, particularly the distribution of over 200 truckloads of food items and more than 200 trailer loads of fertiliser, describing the initiatives as unprecedented and highly beneficial to the people.

The APC leader further applauded the governor’s commitment to promoting Islam through the construction and renovation of mosques, as well as his prudent management of the state’s finances, noting that despite executing numerous capital projects, the administration had avoided unnecessary borrowing.

He also conveyed the goodwill of members of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, who commended the cordial relationship between the Executive and the Legislature, describing the harmony as essential for sustainable development.

While appreciating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for improving the financial capacity of states through his economic reforms, Senator Wamakko urged the contractor to execute the project according to specification and complete it within schedule, assuring Governor Ahmed Aliyu of his continued support and prayers.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Roads, Malami Galadanci, described the Gidanmadi-Binji-Gande Road Project as one of the landmark rural infrastructure initiatives of the Ahmed Aliyu administration.

He said the project underscores the governor’s unwavering commitment to opening up rural communities, improving agricultural productivity, and accelerating socio-economic development across Sokoto State.

Malami Galadanci commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for giving priority to rural road development and appreciated RAAMP, the World Bank, and other development partners for their continued support.

He assured the people that the project would be closely monitored to ensure strict compliance with approved specifications, timely completion, and the delivery of a durable road that would stand the test of time.

Speaking on behalf of the benefiting communities, the District Head of Binji, Alhaji Usman Dan Sarki, expressed profound appreciation to Governor Ahmed Aliyu for approving the construction of the 35.7-kilometer Gidanmadi-Binji-Gande Road.

He described the project as a life-changing intervention that would ease transportation, boost agricultural production, facilitate trade and improve access to healthcare, education and other essential services for thousands of residents across Tangaza, Binji and Silame Local Government Areas.

The traditional ruler also commended Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko for his unwavering support, mentorship, and commitment to the development of Sokoto State.

He assured the state government that the people of the benefiting communities would cooperate fully with the contractor and safeguard the project to ensure its successful completion for the benefit of present and future generations.

The ceremony climaxed with the official reception of hundreds of defectors from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Gudu Local Government Area into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The defectors pledged their loyalty to the APC and expressed confidence in the leadership of Governor Ahmed Aliyu and Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, citing the administration’s developmental achievements and people-oriented programmes as the reasons for their decision.

The flag-off ceremony was attended by members of the National and State Assemblies, commissioners, special advisers, heads of government agencies, traditional rulers, political leaders, development partners, community representatives, and residents from Tangaza, Binji, and Silame Local Government Areas, all of whom applauded the Ahmed Aliyu administration’s sustained investment in road infrastructure aimed at improving rural connectivity, stimulating economic growth, and enhancing the living standards of the people of Sokoto State.

SM Prime: Cebu Arena to host 20 big events

Property developer SM Prime Holdings Inc. on Thursday said it has lined up more than 20 shows in its newly launched SM Seaside Cebu Arena this year, as the company is aiming to take advantage of a stronger concert economy in the Visayas.

The lineup features Filipino and international acts, live productions, sports events and family entertainment, with some set for their first large-scale performances in the region, the company said.

‘Our goal is to help Cebu capture a larger share of the live entertainment economy. When major events come to the city, the impact extends beyond the venue. They support tourism, hospitality, transport, retail and the local services that benefit from stronger visitor inflow,’ SM Prime President Jeffrey C. Lim said.

Lim said the development of SM Seaside Cebu Arena also reflects the post-pandemic shift in consumer behavior experiences.

For Millennials and Gen Z, experiences hold strong appeal because they create lasting memories, are easily shared socially and align with a more intentional approach to wellness, time and spending.

‘Technology is also fueling growth, with online ticketing platforms improving access and venue systems enhancing the audience experience through better visuals, sound and production quality.’

In May, the company partnered with global ticketing company Ticketmaster to launch SM Ticketmaster. The venture will replace SM Tickets and combine Ticketmaster’s global platform and fraud prevention tools with SM Prime’s local operating network.

At the venue level, SM Seaside Cebu Arena features the most advanced center-hung display in the Visayas. The technology gives audiences a clear view of both the live performance and digital replays from every seat, supporting a wide range of events, from sports and concerts to family entertainment, corporate shows, circus productions and motorsports.

SM Seaside Cebu Arena sits within South Road Properties and is directly connected to SM Seaside City Cebu, one of the country’s largest retail and lifestyle destinations.

The arena will also be linked to the upcoming SMX Convention Center Seaside Cebu, Park Inn by Radisson and Radisson Hotel.

FIFA Women’s Football Campaign Empowers Girls In Tumu

The FIFA Women’s Football Campaign has successfully held a community outreach programme in Tumu, using football as a platform to educate and empower young girls.

The initiative brought together girls, community members and key stakeholders for an interactive event that combined football activities with educational sessions focused on personal development and well-being.

One of the major highlights of the programme was a session on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), where participants received guidance on making informed choices, maintaining good health and accessing reliable information and support services.

Facilitators also led discussions on gender rights and responsibilities, encouraging the girls to embrace equality, mutual respect and shared responsibility in creating safer and more inclusive communities.

The Ghana Football Association was represented by its Women’s Football Development Officer, Jennifer Amankwa Sarpong, who joined the facilitators in engaging participants throughout the programme and reinforcing the campaign’s key messages.

The outreach forms part of ongoing efforts to use football as a tool for social development while equipping young girls with essential life skills beyond the pitch.

Through initiatives like this, the Ghana Football Association continues to promote the growth of women’s football and empower girls with the confidence, knowledge and opportunities needed to achieve their full potential.

AAAN’s 53rd AGM/congress begins in Lagos, sets agenda for advertising’s next chapter

The Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) will today begin its 53rd annual general meeting (AGM) and congress in Lagos.

The event brings together leaders across advertising, marketing, media, government, and the creative economy to examine the forces shaping the future of the industry.

The two-day event, which will take place at Providence Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos, has the theme: ‘AdVolution: The End of Advertising as We Know It and How to Win What Comes Next.’

The theme explores how the advertising industry is adapting to rapid changes driven by technology, artificial intelligence, evolving consumer expectations, and emerging creative models.The AGM/congress will begin with AAAN’s business session, where members will receive updates on the association’s activities, committee reports, and strategic priorities. The session will also provide an opportunity to reflect on the association’s progress and discuss key issues shaping the industry.

The main conference, scheduled for tomorrow, will feature the official opening by Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, alongside participation from government officials, regulators, and industry stakeholders, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, and the Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dr. Lekan Fadolapo.

A major highlight of the conference will be keynote sessions from Tomiwa Aladekomo, Chief Executive Officer of Big Cabal Media, and Dr. Meksley Nwagboh, Head of Brand and Communications at Fidelity Bank Plc, who will share perspectives on the evolving advertising landscape, brand building, and the role of communications in a rapidly changing marketplace.

AAAN President Lanre Adisa noted that the theme of this year’s congress reflects the need for the industry to confront change while preserving the creativity and human connection that define effective advertising.

‘The theme is a wake-up call to the reality we are dealing with. Traditional advertising is not dead; it has evolved. The need to communicate will never change, it is only fast evolving. The question is how well we are embracing this challenge.’

Adisa noted that while technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping the industry, agencies remain central to developing ideas and solutions that connect with audiences, with technology serving as an enabler of human creativity rather than a replacement for it.

The congress will feature conversations around the evolving role of agencies, the creator economy, technology-driven innovation, and the need for businesses to demonstrate greater value in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

The event will conclude with a Gala and Awards Night, which will recognise outstanding individuals and celebrate achievements across Nigeria’s advertising industry.

Asantehemaa Marks First ‘Akwasidae’

NANA YAA Akyaa II officially celebrated her maiden ‘Akwasidae’ festival as the 15th Asantehemaa, amid pomp and pageantry, last Sunday, July 19, 2026.

Clad in white cloth, the new queen majestically sat in state as she supervised a grand and colourful durbar in her palace at Manhyia in Kumasi, the Ashanti regional capital.

The traditional programme was mostly attended by queenmothers in the Asante Kingdom, who were there to pay homage to the newly enstooled Asantehemaa.

Other dignitaries, including politicians, government officials, businessmen, traditional leaders, the clergy and people from various backgrounds, were also present at the event venue.

Significantly, some of the people at the traditional function were given the rare opportunity to shake hands with Nana Yaa Akyaa II, who was surrounded by her servants.

Known in private life as Nana Ama Bonsu, the new Asantehemaa was recently nominated by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, to occupy the Asantehemaa’s throne.

After going through some traditional processes in the Stool House at the Manhyia Palace, the new queen reportedly selected Nana Yaa Akyaa II as her official stool name.

Nana Yaa Akyaa II has replaced Nana Konadu Yiadom III, the 14th Asantehemaa, who unfortunately joined her ancestors in August 2025.

PBBM seeks ‘reset’ in talks with Beijing after sea clash

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has sought a ‘reset’ of talks with Beijing to prevent future violent confrontation between the Chinese Coast Guard and members of the Philippine Army during his meeting with Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan earlier this week.

This, after two members of the Philippine Navy were hurt by people onboard a Chinese Coast Guard vessel at the Ayungin Shoal last Monday.

Marcos condemned the incident, which prompted him to summon the Chinese Ambassador.

‘Whatever issues exist between China and the Philippines, he [Marcos] wants a reset in those discussions. The Chinese ambassador heard him, and the President also heard [the position of the] Chinese ambassador; so, hopefully, this leads to a better outcome,’ Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a press briefing on Thursday.

Castro declined to give further details about the meeting, which lasted an hour and 20 minutes at the Palace, but she said its outcome appears to be positive.

As to the Chinese embassy’s claim that the Ayungin incident happened after the Philippines allegedly violated the terms of a supposed 2024 arrangement between Manila and Beijing by doing construction work in BRP Sierra Madre, Castro said she has no information on the matter. The DFA has denied there was such an arrangement.

BRP Sierra Madre is a Philippine Navy ship, which was intentionally ran aground in the Ayungin Shoal to allow the country maintain its territorial claim in the area.

Castro challenged the Chinese embassy to release a copy of the said 2024 agreement.

The Presidential Communications Office undersecretary said the Philippine government is still open to holding future talks with China despite its repeated efforts to encroach on parts of the West Philippine Sea.

‘We should always act in good faith. We should always have in mind that we are dealing with people who will also be in good faith. It is difficult to [make a] deal when you immediately think that the person you are talking to is lying,’ Castro said.

In a related development, Marcos visited the two Philippine Navy members who were hurt from the Ayungin mishap, at the Camp Ricarte Station Hospital sa Puerto Princesa City in Palawan on Thursday.

The chief executive recognized the bravery and faithful service to the nation, and conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu upon the two soldiers and awarded them financial assistance of P100,000 each.

Data silos stall growth

Thailand’s ambition to become a data-and-technology-driven economy faces structural hurdles, says a senior researcher at the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI).

Fragmented government and private-sector databases are preventing the country from fully harnessing the value of data, the TDRI noted.

The warning comes as the government is promoting digital transformation as a cornerstone of its strategy to escape the middle-income trap and build a knowledge-based economy.

Authorities have pledged to make data-driven policymaking a key pillar of economic modernisation, arguing that better use of big data and digital technologies will improve public services, boost productivity, and attract more investment.

However, Nonarit Bisonyabut, senior research fellow at TDRI, said Thailand remains only at the “baby stage” of working its way up to the status of a truly data-driven country.

“The first prerequisite is having data, and Thailand does collect a great deal of it,” he said. “The problem is that the data is stored in silos.”

Government agencies, including the Department of Land Transport and the Public Health Ministry, each maintain their own databases, while banks, mobile network operators and hospitals also hold extensive customer information.

But these databases rarely communicate with one another, limiting their usefulness beyond individual organisations.

“As a result, each organisation can only develop services based on the data it already possesses,” Mr Nonarit said.

Banks, for example, can analyse customer behaviour to tailor financial products or insurance offers, but broader innovation remains constrained because datasets cannot be integrated.

Practical challenges

Mr Nonarit said the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) also presents practical challenges, requiring organisations to obtain users’ consent before using personal data for new purposes. While the law safeguards privacy, it also limits the ability to maximise the economic value of data.

Government agencies face different challenges. Although they have the legal authority to collect certain types of information, officials often hesitate to share data for fear of legal liability or public scrutiny.

“There has long been a culture of not sharing data — even among government agencies themselves,” Mr Nonarit said.

While recent legislation encourages greater information sharing, implementation remains limited, with agencies typically responding only to specific requests rather than making interoperable datasets broadly available.

Mr Nonarit cited the Department of Business Development as an example. Instead of publishing company director information in an accessible format, the agency only allows users to ask whether a specific individual serves as a director of a particular company.

“That approach doesn’t create an ecosystem where innovation can flourish because the data isn’t connected,” he said.

By contrast, countries such as China have built highly integrated data systems, enabling authorities to use artificial intelligence to improve traffic management, enhance public safety and streamline urban administration, albeit with far less emphasis on personal privacy.

Thailand lacks the ability to connect an individual’s records across different databases through a single digital identity, Mr Nonarit said. If linked securely, data associated with a citizen’s 13-digit national identification number — including their driving history, accident records and health information — could support more accurate insurance pricing, better public policy and more personalised services.

Mr Nonarit said democratic countries have also demonstrated successful models.

European nations, he said, have developed trusted regulatory frameworks that protect personal privacy while enabling consumers to voluntarily share data for financial services, insurance and other innovations. Such systems allow lenders, for instance, to assess borrowers more efficiently based on verified risk profiles.

Thailand has made limited progress through smaller initiatives, including the Bank of Thailand’s “Your Data” project, which seeks to broaden access to financing by allowing customers to share financial information more easily. While such projects can generate incremental economic gains, Mr Nonarit said they fall short of the comprehensive data ecosystem required for a genuinely data-driven economy.

Data exchange platform

Mr Nonarit advocated creating a nationwide “data exchange” platform built around secure digital identities. Under such a system, individuals would control access to their personal information — including health records, financial history and other verified data — and selectively authorise organisations to use it.

Such a framework could transform industries ranging from insurance to healthcare, he said. Insurers could offer customised premiums based on verified health data or information collected through wearable devices, encouraging preventive healthcare while reducing costs.

Healthcare is another area where fragmented systems continue to impede efficiency. Patients transferring between hospitals often still need to physically obtain and carry their medical records, despite advances in digital technology.

“Medical records should already be transferable electronically so patients can receive treatment more quickly,” Mr Nonarit said.

He also warned that while Thailand struggles to integrate its own data, foreign digital platforms have become highly effective at collecting and monetising information from Thai users.

Most users, he said, routinely accept lengthy terms and conditions without understanding what rights they are surrendering in exchange for access to online services. Once companies accumulate massive datasets, they can deploy AI to strengthen their businesses and influence consumer behaviour.

“There is a real question over whether users fully understand what they have consented to,” he said.

He pointed to cases involving social media algorithms that encourage excessive consumption or influence children’s behaviour. Mr Nonarit also noted that seeking legal remedies against overseas technology firms remains difficult because they operate outside Thailand’s jurisdiction.

Although the Consumer Council has pursued legal action in some cases, enforcing consumer protections against multinational technology companies remains a significant challenge, he added.

Ted Cruz: Instead of Addressing Persecution, Nigeria Launched PR Campaign

ýUnited States Senator Ted Cruz has accused Nigerian officials of responding to international concerns over alleged persecution of Christians by launching a public relations campaign instead of addressing the underlying security and religious freedom issues.

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ýCruz made the remarks in a post published on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday while reacting to recent developments surrounding U.S. congressional action on Nigeria.

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ý’Nigerian officials have created an environment that facilitates mass violence against Christians and religious minorities by imposing blasphemy and Sharia laws and looking the other way at jihadist atrocities,’ the Republican lawmaker wrote.

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ý’The U.S. government knows the Nigerian officials responsible for these policies. I have been pushing my bill to sanction them, and President Trump has even ordered military action.’

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ýCruz also alleged that rather than addressing concerns raised by the United States, Nigerian authorities opted for a communications campaign.

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ý’Instead of responding to American concerns, Nigerian officials waged a public relations campaign against critics,’ he wrote.

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ý’They were confident in that campaign and in their ability to continue the status quo, and I am heartened that the House has just definitively proven them wrong,’ he added.

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ýMeanwhile, the Nigerian government has consistently denied accusations that it condones or sponsors religious persecution.

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Daily Trust had reported ýhow the Federal Government hired a United States lobbying firm under a $9 million contract to strengthen Nigeria’s engagement with U.S. officials over allegations of attacks on Christian communities.

The Federal Government’s expenditure tracking platform, GovSpend, also showed how the Presidency spent N500 million in 2025 on what was described as an emergency strategic communications campaign.

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ýThe payment record stated that the funds were released to the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy Communications for ’emergency Strategic Communications and Global Media Engagement to counter coordinated Western propaganda against FGN on alleged Christian persecution.’

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ýThe spending formed part of a broader government effort to respond to growing international criticism over insecurity and allegations of religious persecution.

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ýDocuments filed under the U.S. Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) showed that the firm was retained through Aster Legal on behalf of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

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ýAccording to the agreement, DCI Group was contracted to help communicate Nigeria’s efforts to protect Christian communities and maintain U.S. support for countering jihadist groups and other destabilising elements in West Africa.

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ýThe contract provides for monthly payments of $750,000, with an initial $4.5 million six-month retainer.

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ýNigeria has come under increasing international scrutiny over attacks by insurgents, bandits and other armed groups.

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ýCruz has been among the most vocal members of the U.S. Congress calling for tougher action against Nigerian officials over alleged violations of religious freedom.