Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

Sugar has become an integral part of every household in Nigeria. There’s sugar in virtually everything we consume or drink these days. It’s the sweet taste many Nigerians crave.

But away from the sweet taste and fulfillment lies a danger. Health experts warn that consuming too much sugar is dangerous to one’s health, as it can lead to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, tooth decay, and more.

When health experts warn about sugar, they’re not talking about the natural sweetness in fruits. They’re referring to added or free sugar, the sugar added to your tea, pap, garri, the sugar mixed into pastries, sprinkled on snacks, or added by food companies to processed and bottled products.

Unlike fruit, which comes with fiber and nutrients, free sugar is empty energy. It fills your body with calories but offers little nutrition.

In this article, Tribune Online highlights 5 dangers of excess sugar consumption:

1. Obesity and Excess Weight Gain

Sugary foods and drinks are often packed with calories; they give the body energy but very little nutrition. Items like soft drinks, sweetened juices, pastries, and candy are digested quickly, leaving you hungry again soon after. This encourages overeating and constant snacking. When these extra calories aren’t used up through physical activity, the body stores them as fat. Over time, this leads to weight gain and eventually obesity.

2. Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

When you eat foods or drinks loaded with sugar, your blood sugar level rises very quickly. To control this, your pancreas releases insulin, a hormone that helps move sugar from the blood into your cells for energy. If this happens too often, the body becomes less sensitive to insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance. At that point, sugar stays longer in the blood instead of being absorbed properly, and over time, this can develop into Type 2 diabetes.

3. Tooth Decay and Oral Health Problems

One of the most direct and visible effects of eating too much sugar is on the teeth. When you consume sugary foods or drinks, the sugar doesn’t just sit idly in your mouth; it becomes food for harmful bacteria. These bacteria break down the sugar and, in the process, release acid.

That acid slowly eats away at the tooth’s protective enamel. Once the enamel is weakened, tiny holes called cavities begin to form. If left untreated, cavities can grow larger, leading to toothaches, infections, and even tooth loss.

4. Reduced Immunity and Increased Inflammation

Too much sugar causes spikes in blood glucose, which can reduce immune responses, increasing vulnerability to infections. Also, it contributes to inflammation, which can worsen many health conditions.

5. Heart Disease and Hypertension

When we consume high amounts of sugar, it can lead to inflammation and damage to blood vessels, causing them to become less flexible and more prone to blockages. This, in turn, can increase blood pressure. Furthermore, a diet high in sugar can also lead to insulin resistance, higher triglycerides, and weight gain all of which are risk factors for hypertension and other heart diseases.

In recent times, traveling is one of life’s greatest joys. Exploring, sightseeing, and engaging in business transactions in cross-border countries can feel relishing. And whether you’re chasing history, culture, food, or just views, the world has no shortage of amazing spots.

Although every country in the world is a tourist destination, it is by choice to make one’s such attractive.

Meanwhile, if you have ever wondered about the best countries to go for tourism, here, Tribune Online streamlined a list that blends beauty, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

1. France

France can be considered just about Paris, but that is not the case, though the Eiffel Tower is a must-see.

The influence France has on the world, both in the past and today, is difficult to overstress. Located in Western Europe, France is one of the world’s oldest countries, one of the best, and its reach extends around the globe through science, politics, economics, and perhaps above all, culture.

With 117.1M annual international tourist arrivals and 11.7% world visits, the French Riviera is glamorous, Provence smells like lavender fields in summer, and Bordeaux is heaven for wine lovers.

France has mastered the art of romance and culture, two things that keep travelers coming back and make it the best country to visit for tourism.

2. Poland

Now recognized among the top arrivals in 2025, Poland is rising fast. Kraków’s medieval core, Warsaw’s resilient energy, coastal dunes, and the Tatra Mountains give it variety. Strong cultural festivals and growing flight connectivity make Poland an enticing, affordable European option. With 88.5M annual international tourist arrivals and 8.87% world visits, the country is ranked as the second-best country to visit for tourism.

Poland is composed of sixteen voivodeships and is the fifth most populous member state of the European Union (EU), with over 38 million people, and the fifth largest EU country by land area, covering 312,696 km2 (120,733 sq mi).

3. Mexico

Mexico mixes archaeological treasures, colorful cities, beach resorts, and standout cuisine. From Chichén Itzá to Mexico City’s museums and the Riviera Maya’s reefs, it’s a diverse playground with deep traditions and lively food scenes.

Mexico’s tourism boom is not an accident, but a mix of world-class assets, smart infrastructure moves, and cultural capital that keeps people coming back, making it one of the best countries for tourism.

In early 2025, the country recorded strong annual international tourist arrivals of 51.1M and 5.1% of world visits.

In 2024, the country saw roughly 45 million inbound visitors, with tourist spending topping pre-pandemic peaks. Those gains translated into record monthly tourism revenues in 2025, showing not just volume but real economic impact.

4. United States

The United States holds a firm spot among the best countries for tourism in 2025, with 45M annual international tourist arrivals and 4.5% world visits, not just for the sheer number of visitors but also for its unmatched tourism revenue.

Massive and varied, the U.S. earns top tourism receipts.

According to the U.S. National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO) in 2023, international travelers spent over $175 billion in the U.S., making it the world’s top earner from tourism.

From the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone to iconic skylines like New York City and Los Angeles, the country’s mix of natural wonders, vibrant cities, and world-famous road trips keeps millions of visitors streaming in year after year.

5. Thailand

Thailand is the kind of place that makes you forget time. With the bustling heart of Bangkok buzzing with energy, Phuket offers beaches that look like postcards, and Chiang Mai charms with temples and night markets.

Thailand is not just postcard landscapes and temples: in 2025, it’s rebounding strongly, even with a few bumps. In 2024, it welcomed over 35 million international tourists, generating about 1.8 trillion baht in revenue.

With our chart, Thailand has 39.9M annual international tourist arrivals and 4.0% world visits, making it one of the best 10 countries for tourism. These numbers show that tourists are spending more per visit, and Thailand is leaning into quality.

What really sets Thailand apart is the mix of accessible policy, strong cultural pull, and natural diversity. They’ve relaxed visa requirements, dropped the TM6 arrival card in key crossings, and introduced the Thailand Digital Arrival Card to streamline entry.

6. Italy

Italy, the tenth-largest country in Europe by area, covering 301,340 km2 (116,350 sq mi), and the third-most populous member state of the European Union, with nearly 59 million inhabitants, feels like a living museum.

It is the best country for tourism across the world. From the Colosseum in Rome, its capital and largest city, to the romantic canals of Venice, you’ll find history tucked in every corner. Florence will leave you spellbound with its art, while the Amalfi Coast gives you sunsets that feel like movie scenes.

7. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has quietly climbed the ladder of the world’s favorite destinations, pulling in millions of visitors in 2025. In the world tourism ranking by countries, Czech Republic has annual international tourist arrivals of 37.2million and 3.7% world visits.

A heady mix of storybook castles, Gothic cathedrals, thermal spa towns, and vibrant festivals makes Czechia feel like Europe condensed into one small but mighty country.

While Prague’s Old Town, Charles Bridge, and castle views remain iconic, more tourists are extending their trips to wine-rich South Moravia, scenic South Bohemia, and Karlovy Vary’s legendary spas, places where longer stays and deeper cultural dives are becoming the norm.

Visitors tend to spend more, stay longer, and push tourism revenue higher even as the country spreads the benefits outside its capital.

It’s this blend of timeless charm and modern accessibility that cements the Czech Republic as one of the best countries to visit for tourism in 2025.

8. Spain

Spain dances to its own rhythm, literally. Flamenco in Seville, the wild energy of Barcelona, and Madrid’s world-class museums make it irresistible. Add sunny beaches and late-night tapas culture, and you’ve got one of the best countries to go for tourism in Europe.

Meanwhile, the country is said to have an annual international tourist arrivals of 36.4million and 3.7% world visits: this and its world-class infrastructures ranked it of the best countries to go for tourism in the world.

9. Canada

Canada is more than just maple leaves and snow-topped peaks. In 2024, it broke records, with 19.9 million overnight international arrivals (+8.6% over 2023), and tourism revenue surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

Domestic overnight trips also surged past 105 million, showing that locals are rediscovering their country almost as much as foreign visitors. Spending topped $104.4 billion USD (inflation-adjusted), making tourism one of Canada’s fastest-growing sectors.

Currently, Canada has 33.4million annual international tourist arrivals and 3.3% world visits. It’s got a wild variety from the rugged Rockies, coastal fjords of British Columbia, pristine lakes in Ontario, to the folklore and French charm of Québec and the Atlantic provinces.

The outdoors draws adventure seekers; cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montréal beckon with culture, cuisine, festivals, and history. With the above, Canada is among the best countries to go for tourism in 2025.

10. Hungary

Hungary is riding a tourism wave in 2025. The country welcomed its five millionth visitor by early May, an 18% increase over the same period in 2024. Both domestic and international arrivals are up, and hotel stays are rising steadily.

In February 2025 alone, Hungary recorded over 1 million guests spending around 2.3 million nights in accommodations, with international visitors climbing by 22%.

Budapest is seeing an upward leap in visitors, revenue, and overnight stays, while popular regions like Lake Balaton, Mátra-Bkk, Tokaj, and the countryside are enjoying the spillover.

What makes the stand a chance in the top countries to go for tourism is its mix: historic cities, spa culture, vibrant festival life, and accessible price points. Budapest’s dramatic architecture, thermal baths (Széchenyi, Gellért), lively nightlife, and arts scene keep city-break lovers happy.

These countries are not just places on a map; they’re experiences waiting to happen. Whether you’re into culture, adventure, or pure relaxation, these are some of the best countries to visit for tourism and make memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Lagos Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has charged participants of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) to carry the spirit of the conference back to their communities, urging them to ensure that the conversations become actions, and the inspiration shared becomes a tangible impact in grassroots development.

Governor Sanwo-Olu gave the charge while speaking at the Closing Ceremony of the 25th Annual National Women’s Conference, which took place at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, and organised by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO).

The governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, noted that the next 25 years would depend on how boldly participants continued to mentor, to serve, and to lead in their various capacities and abilities.

According to Sanwo-Olu, every session, every dialogue, and every moment of reflection during the conference has deepened the understanding that women are not only development partners, but also drivers of progress, saying that ‘from the inspiring discussions on leadership and innovation, to the moving stories of courage and transformation, COWLSO has once again shown that when women rise, societies thrive.’

He reiterated that the participants, during the conference, had not only celebrated a legacy but had also renewed a movement, noting that they had reflected on 25years of purpose, passion, and progress and equally envisioned collectively the next generation of women who would carry this legacy forward.

The governor highlighted that the conference gala night raffle draw had gone beyond the thrill of winning, saying that it had brought genuine transformation to many lives.

‘The stories of women and families whose fortunes have changed from owning a car to receiving a home, as well as initiatives like the collaborations announced during this conference, which provide POS machines and seed support.

‘Though they are the small but catalytic investments that convert ideas into income, and income into opportunity, which remind us that empowerment can take many forms, and that generosity, when guided by compassion, creates lasting impact,’ said the Governor.

Speaking on the President’s reform, Governor Sanwo-Olu said they were beginning to yield fruit, as people were beginning to see their effect in the prices of materials and foodstuffs that were dropping in the markets; the stability of the foreign exchange market; students having unhindered access to funds for school fees, among others.

‘We have seen this in prices that are dropping in the markets; the stability of the foreign exchange market; students having unhindered access to funds for school fees, and more.

‘This is the message you should take home – that the Renewed Hope promised by President Tinubu is becoming a reality,’ he said.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the First Lady of Lagos State and Chairman of COWLSO, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu expressed profound joy and gratitude to God for the success of the Silver Jubilee edition of the conference, which had the theme: ’25 Years of Visionary Legacy: Inspiring the Next Generation.’

She described the 25th anniversary edition as a true celebration of women’s strength, brilliance, and resilience, adding that the conference had provided participants with valuable insights and renewed purpose to drive change in their homes, workplaces, and communities.

‘Our interactions over the past three days have once again shown that when women come together with passion and focus, the results are always inspiring,’ she said.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu commended all the distinguished guests who graced the conference, particularly the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who joined virtually during the opening ceremony with a heartwarming goodwill message.

Besides, she lauded the Conference Planning Committee led by Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Oke-Osanyitolu, for its commitment and meticulous execution of the landmark edition, just as she equally extended appreciation to all COWLSO members, development partners, sponsors, and the media for their invaluable support.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu, while reaffirming COWLSO’s mission to continue inspiring and mentoring women, charged participants to uphold the spirit of the Silver Jubilee by spreading the values of leadership, compassion, and service.

‘Let us go forth as ambassadors of COWLSO’s Visionary Legacy, inspiring others and transforming our communities in ways that truly reflect the spirit of this Silver Jubilee,’ she urged.

The Police Command in Delta State has apprehended seven suspected kidnappers at Ubeji Community in Warri South Local Government Area of the state.

The spokesman for the command, SP Bright Edafe, who disclosed this to newsmen on Friday in Warri, said that three male victims were rescued from the suspects’ custody.

Edafe stated that the suspects were arrested on Thursday by police operatives attached to the Ekpan Division in Uvwie Local Government Area.

He explained that the arrests followed credible information received by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of the Ekpan Division, CSP Labe Joseph.

According to Edafe, the DPO received a distress report about a suspected kidnapping incident at Ubeji Community, behind the Ubeji Gas Plant.

‘Acting on the report, the DPO deployed a team of detectives and patrol operatives to the scene.

‘On sighting the police teams, the suspected kidnappers fled into an abandoned poultry within the same community.

‘The police team swiftly cordoned off the area, leading to the successful arrest of the seven suspects,’ he said.

Edafe said that the rescued victims had since been reunited with their families.

The police spokesman further stated that preliminary investigation revealed that the victims were abducted at a dredging site in Ubeji and ferried across the river.

He said that the suspects immediately contacted the victims’ families and threatened to kill them if certain demands were not met.

Edafe added that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the other fleeing members of the gang.

The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele has mentioned some African countries that will experience revolution at any moment from now.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele stated that there will be a serious revolution that will sweep across the continent, especially in countries where leaders have held on to their positions for years.

He cited Cameroon, explaining that the opposition candidate won the last election but was cheated. He stated that if Coup doesn’t take out Paul Biya from power, death will take him out before the end of his new tenure. He also urged the opposition candidate to continue doing his best till he gets his result.

‘There will be a revolution in Africa, and it will go to more countries. In Cameroon, if a coup doesn’t take Biya out of power, he will die before the end of his tenure; this is what will happen in most African countries.

‘Most countries that have sit-tight presidents or old leaders, there will be serious signals for them to leave power. France has taken over Cameroon, and Paul Biya has mortgaged the country.

‘The opposition won the last election, the opposition candidate must not relent his efforts, he should continue doing his best because he will make a lot of impact. It will be tough, he will be embarrassed, but they won’t succeed.’

Likewise, in Tanzania, Primate Ayodele stated that the president will face more crises because she is adamant and ready to do anything to remain in power. He warned her that the opposition would continue to trouble her till they got results.

‘Tanzania: The people will not take it easy because the president is adamant. The country will not be peaceful and will go bankrupt. The president is heartless and ready to do anything. The opposition will go crazy and protest till they get the result. The ruling party will be thrown into disarray because the president will not do well.’

In Côte d’Ivoire, the prophet stated that the president will not be loved and that the military will make an attempt on his government.

‘Côte d’Ivoire: The president will not be loved, and he should expect challenges. The military will also make an attempt on his government. I see anarchy in the country, and the people will be protesting towards getting a new government. There will be killing and so many steps this government will take.’

In the Benin Republic, Primate Ayodele explained that the president will take a nasty step that the people won’t take lightly with him. He warned him not to set the country ablaze, while mentioning other countries that should prepare for revolution.

‘Likewise, Benin Republic president will take a nasty step to suppress opposition, but they won’t take it easy. Patrice Talon, don’t set Benin Republic ablaze. He must expect the wrath of the people.

‘Coup isn’t yet over in Africa, more countries will experience it and other countries that should expect this revolution are Equatorial Guinea, Togo, Congo Brazzaville, DR Congo.’

The Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, led by Director General Lamin Rabi’u Danbappa, has announced December 14, 2025, as the new deadline for completing payments and collecting fares for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.

All intending pilgrims from Kano State must ensure that their Hajj payments and related documentation are finalised by the specified date, the board noted.

The Director General emphasized that no payments or registrations will be accepted after December 14, 2025, as arrangements for accommodation, transportation, and other welfare services in Saudi Arabia will begin immediately thereafter.

This announcement was made during a meeting held in his office on Wednesday with Local Government Hajj Officers and staff of the Board.

According to him, ‘the new deadline was introduced in compliance with the directives of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to ensure effective planning and logistics ahead of next year’s pilgrimage.’

This was contained in a statement signed by the Board’s spokesman, Suleiman Dederi.

The statement noted that ‘The adjustment became necessary to give intending pilgrims enough time to finalize their payments while allowing the Board to properly coordinate and prepare all necessary arrangements for a successful Hajj operation in 2026,’ Danbappa stated.

Also speaking at the meeting, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Alhaji Yusif Lawan, urged all intending pilgrims to visit their respective Local Government Hajj Centers, the Board’s headquarters, or any designated zonal office to confirm payment details, collect receipts, and complete all required forms before the deadline.

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Friday declined to grant an application filed by former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, seeking to stop the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from proceeding with its scheduled National Convention slated for November 15 and 16, 2025, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The convention is meant to elect new national officers to steer the affairs of the party.

Lamido, in the motion ex parte, moved by his lawyer, Jephthah Njikonye, SAN, prayed the court to make the interim order pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

The trial judge, Justice Peter Lifu, in a ruling, ordered the PDP and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), who are defendants in the suit, to come and show cause why the ex-governor’s reliefs should not be granted.

The former governor, who is the plaintiff in the fresh suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2299/2025, named the PDP and INEC as the 1st and 2nd defendants.

Lamido, a former Minister of Foreign Affairs, approached the court on the grounds that he was dissatisfied with the way the convention was being organised.

In the suit, Lamido also asked the court to restrain INEC from supervising, aiding, or monitoring the convention to prevent it from receiving any legal recognition.

The former governor alleged that he was unlawfully denied the nomination form to contest for the position of national chairman at the convention.

He further claimed that the PDP failed to comply with its own constitution and guidelines in organising the exercise and did not provide equal opportunities for all eligible members, including himself, to contest.

Lamido is, therefore, seeking a mandatory injunction compelling the party to make the nomination form for national chairman available to him, as well as an order stopping INEC from recognising or monitoring any convention until he is allowed to participate.

Assistant Commander of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), ACE I Effa Okim, on Thursday, assumed duties as the new Acting Zonal Director of the Makurdi Zonal Directorate.

He takes over from Commander of the EFCC, CE Anselem Ozioko, who has been redeployed to head the Ilorin Zonal Directorate. The development was made known on the Commission’s official X handle.

Okim, a Certified Fraud Examiner and seasoned anti-corruption investigator, has handled several high-profile cases and served in various strategic positions, including Team Lead, Advance Fee Fraud, Team Lead, Operational Studies at the EFCC Academy, Karu, Head, Improved Service Delivery (SERVICOM), and Head, Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Management.

He is also a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers and a member of the Compliance Institute of Nigeria, among other professional bodies.

Before his posting to Makurdi, Okim served as the Acting Zonal Director of the Benin Zonal Directorate.

In his maiden address to staff, Okim urged officers to uphold the EFCC’s values and maintain integrity in their duties. ‘We must make sacrifices and shun corruption in all our official dealings by upholding the core values of the Commission,’ he said.

The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) returns in 2025 with a renewed commitment to spotlighting African creativity and innovation, this time through the Herbert Wigwe Trailblazer Award, a highlight of the festival dedicated to celebrating outstanding pioneers shaping the future of African storytelling.

Scheduled to take place from November 2 to 8, the 14th edition of AFRIFF will be themed ‘Rhythms of the Continent: The Afrobeats Film Movement’.

The festival will explore the intersection of music, film, and culture while recognising individuals whose visionary work continues to elevate Africa’s creative industries on the global stage.

The Herbert Wigwe Trailblazer Award is named in honour of the late Herbert Wigwe, a man whose legacy continues to inspire bold leadership, innovation, and investment in Africa’s creative economy. The awards will celebrate filmmakers, producers, and creative entrepreneurs who embody the same spirit of excellence and transformation that Wigwe championed throughout his life.

‘The Herbert Wigwe Trailblazer Award is more than a tribute; it’s a movement,’ said Chioma Ude, founder and executive director of AFRIFF.

‘Herbert believed deeply in the power of African talent to compete globally. Through this award, we’re honouring that vision by recognising creative leaders who are breaking barriers, redefining African storytelling, and inspiring new generations to dream bigger.’

The Trailblazer Award will be presented during the prestigious AFRIFF Globe Awards ceremony, which concludes the week-long festival.

Winners will be selected based on their innovation, influence, and contribution to Africa’s evolving film and creative industries especially those forging new paths in areas such as cross-industry collaboration, international co-productions, and content innovation.

Among the names of people to be honoured are Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, David Oyelowo and Hakeem Muri Okunola to receive awards.

This year’s AFRIFF will also mark the launch of the AFRIFF Film and Content Market (AFCM) – Nigeria’s first and only film and content marketplace.

The AFCM will serve as a business hub connecting filmmakers, distributors, and investors, furthering AFRIFF’s mission to build a sustainable ecosystem for African content creation and monetisation.

Alongside screenings, masterclasses, and workshops, AFRIFF 2025 will screen over 100 films from across Africa and the diaspora, showcasing the diversity and creativity that define African cinema today.

The Trailblazer Awards reflect the resilience, vision, and excellence that Herbert Wigwe stood for,’ said Ude.

‘It’s a reminder that Africa’s creative industries are not just telling stories, they’re building legacies.’

With its blend of artistry, commerce, and celebration, AFRIFF 2025 promises to be a landmark edition – honouring the trailblazers shaping Africa’s cultural renaissance and ensuring that Herbert Wigwe’s legacy of empowerment lives on through every frame, beat, and story told.