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Top 10 countries with declining population

In 2025, while many countries are battling overcrowding, a growing number of countries are quietly shrinking in terms of population. 

Driven by low fertility rates, ageing populations, and high emigration, the population decline in countries like Saint Martin, the Cook Islands, and the Marshall Islands is raising alarm bells.

This report explores the top 10 countries facing rapid depopulation and what it means for their future stability.

Saint Martin

Saint Martin, a French overseas collectivity in the Caribbean, is facing one of the fastest population declines in the world, with its population estimated at around 25,000 as of early 2025, a sharp drop of about 4.5% annually. The decline, which began after Hurricane Irma devastated the island in 2017, is driven mainly by negative net migration, as more than 1,200 people, mostly young adults, leave each year in search of better opportunities. At the same time, birth rates are falling, the median age has risen to 42, and fewer young families are staying to contribute to the economy. This demographic shift is already affecting the island’s workforce, economy, and public services, with vacant homes and underused facilities signalling deeper challenges ahead. Without urgent measures to attract investment, create jobs, and retain residents, Saint Martin risks long-term social and economic instability.

Cook Islands

The Cook Islands, a small Pacific island nation and New Zealand territory, is experiencing one of the fastest population declines in the world, with its population dropping to around 17,000 as of 2025. This sharp decrease is largely due to high emigration rates, as citizens—especially young people—leave for better job opportunities, education, and healthcare in New Zealand and Australia, where they hold full citizenship. The situation is worsened by low birth rates, an ageing population, and the depopulation of many outer islands, with most residents relocating to the capital, Rarotonga, or moving abroad entirely. The government has responded by trying to attract returnees, improve infrastructure, and strengthen the economy through tourism and investment, but these efforts struggle to compete with the advantages offered overseas. As a result, the Cook Islands now face serious challenges related to workforce shortages, cultural preservation, and long-term sustainability.

Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands, a small Pacific island nation, is facing a significant population decline in 2025, with its population dropping to around 41,500 from over 53,000 in previous decades, placing it among the top 10 countries with shrinking populations. This decline is largely due to mass migration to the United States under the Compact of Free Association (COFA), as citizens seek better opportunities, healthcare, and education in states like Arkansas and Hawaii. Economic hardship, limited infrastructure, and worsening climate conditions such as rising sea levels, frequent flooding, and freshwater scarcity are key drivers of this exodus. As more young and skilled individuals leave, the country is dealing with labour shortages, brain drain, and growing dependency on international aid. Without urgent action to improve living conditions and address climate threats, the population is expected to continue declining, posing serious risks to the nation’s long-term survival.

Greece

Greece is experiencing a sharp population decline, with numbers falling to 10.1 million in 2025 from over 11 million, driven by low birth rates, an ageing population, and youth emigration following the 2009 financial crisis. The country now faces more deaths than births each year, while many rural areas are becoming depopulated. Despite government efforts like family incentives and returnee campaigns, the impact has been limited. Experts warn that if the trend continues, Greece’s population could fall below 9 million by 2050, threatening its workforce, economy, and long-term stability.

Northern Mariana Islands

The Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. commonwealth in the Pacific, is among the top 10 countries with declining populations. As of 2025, its population is estimated at around 47,000, a significant decrease driven by outmigration, low birth rates, and economic challenges. Many residents have left the islands in search of better job opportunities in the mainland United States, especially after the decline of the garment industry and the devastation caused by typhoons in recent years. The shrinking population has raised concerns about labour shortages, economic sustainability, and the future of public services in the territory.

Tuvalu

Tuvalu, a small island nation in the Pacific Ocean, is facing a steady population decline, placing it among the top 10 countries with shrinking populations. With an estimated population of just over 11,000 in 2025, the country has seen increasing emigration due to limited economic opportunities, rising sea levels, and concerns over climate change. Many Tuvaluans are relocating to countries like New Zealand and Australia under special migration programs, seeking better living conditions and job prospects. The declining population poses serious challenges for Tuvalu’s local economy, cultural preservation, and long-term national viability as climate threats continue to loom.

American Samoa

American Samoa, an unincorporated territory of the United States in the South Pacific, ranks among the top 10 countries with declining populations. As of 2025, its population is estimated at around 45,000, continuing a downward trend driven by high emigration rates, especially among youth seeking education, employment, and better healthcare in the U.S. mainland. The territory also struggles with low birth rates and limited economic growth, leading many families to leave in search of improved opportunities. This ongoing population decline raises concerns about workforce shortages, reduced economic activity, and challenges in maintaining public infrastructure and cultural traditions.

Moldova

Moldova, a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, is one of the top 10 nations with the fastest-declining populations. As of 2025, its population has dropped to around 2.4 million, significantly lower than in past decades. This sharp decline is largely due to mass emigration, as millions of Moldovans have left for better economic opportunities in countries likeRomania, Italy, and Germany. Combined with a low birth rate and an ageing population, the country faces a demographic crisis that threatens its labuor force, economic growth, and social services. Moldova’s shrinking population is a major concern for its future development and national stability.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, despite its strong economy and central location in Europe, is experiencing a gradual population decline, placing it among the top 10 countries facing this trend. As of 2025, the population is estimated at around 10.5 million, with projections showing a steady decrease in the coming years. This decline is primarily driven by a persistently low birth rate and an ageing population, as younger generations delay starting families or have fewer children. Although immigration has helped offset losses in the past, it is no longer sufficient to maintain long-term population growth. The demographic shift poses challenges for the country’s pension system, healthcare services, and labour market sustainability.

Estonia

Estonia, a Baltic nation in Northern Europe, ranks among the top 10 countries with a declining population. As of 2025, its population is estimated at around 1.3 million, a result of low birth rates, an ageing population, and years of emigration, especially following its independence from the Soviet Union. While recent efforts to attract skilled immigrants and support families have seen some success, the overall trend remains downward. The shrinking population raises concerns about future labour shortages, rural depopulation, and strain on the welfare and healthcare systems. Estonia’s government continues to explore policy solutions to reverse or slow this demographic decline.

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Reactions as billionaire daughter of Femi Otedola, Temi, weds Mr Eazi

Temi Otedola, actress and daughter of billionaire businessman Femi Otedola, has released pictures of her wedding withNigerian singer, Oluwatosin Ajibade, popularly known as Mr Eazi.

The couple tied the knot in a private ceremony in Iceland in August.

The couple earlier announced their engagement in April 2022, when the actress posted a video of the proposal on her Instagram page, and they had both hinted at plans of a private wedding.

Temi Otedola, now Temiloluwa Ajibade, finally took to social media on Friday to update her new surname from Otedola to Ajibade with the caption on her post, “Mr and Mrs Ajibade. Now on voguemagazine”

Temi, weds Mr Eazi – Photo Credit: Vogue Magazine

The couple hosted three weddings across three countries: one in Monaco on May 9, which coincided with Mr Eazi’s late mother’s birthday.

Two months later, the couple held a Yoruba wedding ceremony at the Otedola family home in Dubai before capping it in August with a white wedding in Iceland.

Sharing 99 pictures from the wedding ceremonies on it’s website, Vogue Magazine narrated how the couple met in a cold London night in January 2017 when the Afrobeats musician and actor arrived at the Tate Club to watch Temi’s sister, Florence, perform behind the DJ booth, and their proposal happened five years later.

Speaking in a separate interview with The Office Magazine, Mr Eazi explained how Nigerian culture shaped their ceremonies.

“We brought Nigeria to Dubai in Temi’s family home, all the food, the officiant (the Alaga), the attire of all the staff, guestand performers was all traditional Yoruba attire, the food was all Naija food, and the band was the legendary King Sunny Ade.

“Our attires were both Yoruba wedding attire and we had one that was Iseleuku wedding attire as an ode to my late mum’s Ibo heritage, the entire run of events stayed the same as if it were in Lagos and it truly felt like Lagos in Dubai,” he was quoted as saying.

The singer reportedly revealed that the weddings have inspired his music.

Otedola and Eazi wedding: Photo Credit Vogue Magazine

“I wanna make more love songs, stripped back acoustic songs that I could perform live at future Nigerian weddings,” he said.

Reflecting on his most memorable moment, Mr Eazi reportedly said, “It was an out of body experience seeing Temi and I get married in Dubai in the presence of our close friends and family and I can’t forget when she was told to describe me and she called all my names including the special name my mum loved to call me.

“Also, before she walked into the church, there was a moment the organist played my mum’s favourite hymn and as she walked in a cloudy day started to turn sunny, this was so special.”

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Top 5 African countries with the best healthcare systems

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1. South Africa

South Africa stands tall as the healthcare giant of the continent. It has some of the best private hospitals in the world, withdoctors and facilities that rival Europe and the US. The public healthcare system is still a work in progress, but it serves millions and is backed by bold reforms like the National Health Insurance (NHI) plan aimed at giving everyone better access. In 2024, the government invested about R272 billion (around 14.7 billion dollars) into healthcare, one of the highest on the continent.

2. Kenya

Kenya is fast becoming an East African healthcare success story. With its focus on Universal Health Coverage, a stronger National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), and tech-driven solutions, more Kenyans, especially in rural areas, are seeing doctors, getting medicine, and having safer births than ever before. The government pumped about KES 122 billion (roughly $930 million) into healthcare in 2024, showing its determination to make healthcare a right, not a luxury.

3. Tunisia

Tunisia quietly continues to offer one of the most reliable healthcare systems in North Africa. From solid public hospitals to affordable private care, it’s no surprise the country has one of the highest life expectancies on the continent. The government heavily subsidises care for low-income citizens and keeps a strong focus on prevention and early intervention. For 2024, Tunisia’s health budget stood at TND 6.5 billion (around $2.1 billion), a strong show of support for keeping its citizens healthy.

4 Ghana 

Ghana is a West African trailblazer when it comes to accessible healthcare. Its National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) was one of the first of its kind in Africa, helping people avoid high medical bills while improving access to basic care. The country is also focused on improving maternal care, reducing infant mortality, and investing in rural clinics. In 2024, Ghana dedicated around GHS 12.6 billion (roughly $980 million) to the health sector, a clear sign of its commitment to caring for every Ghanaian.

5. Algeria

In Algeria, healthcare is a right, and it is evident. The country offers free medical care to all citizens, from surgeries to medications. With universal coverage backed by heavy government investment, Algeria is one of the few African nations where healthcare is both accessible and widely trusted. In 2024, Algeria allocated around DZD 1,250 billion (about $9.3 billion) to its healthcare system, proving that health is a top national priority.

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2 Nigerians make list of America’s richest immigrants in 2025

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Two Nigerian-born billionaires, Adebayo “Bayo” Ogunlesi and Tope Awotona, have been named in Forbes’ 2025 list of America’s Richest Immigrants.

The list features 125 billionaires from 41 countries, who collectively make up 14% of all billionaires living in the U.S. and control 18% of the country’s total billionaire wealth.

Forbes notes that a remarkable 93% of them are self-made, having built their fortunes primarily in industries such as technology and finance.

Ogunlesi, with a net worth of $2.4 billion, is ranked 77th and recognised for his success in private equity. Awotona, known for founding scheduling software company Calendly, sits at 106th with a $1.4 billion net worth.

Among the most high-profile names on the list is South African-born Elon Musk, who tops the ranking and remains the world’s richest person with an estimated fortune of $393.1 billion. 

Musk, who migrated to the U.S. via Canada as a student, amassed his wealth through Tesla and SpaceX.

Africa is well represented on the 2025 list, led by South Africa with three names: Elon Musk, Patrick Soon-Shiong ($5.6B, pharmaceuticals), and Rodney Sacks ($3.6B, energy drinks). 

Nigeria follows with Ogunlesi and Awotona, both of whom highlight the country’s rising influence in global finance and technology.

Other African-born billionaires on the list include:

  • Haim Saban from Egypt ($3.1B, TV and investments),
  • Marc Lasry from Morocco ($1.9B, hedge funds),
  • Bharat Desai from Kenya ($1.6B, IT consulting).

The growing number of immigrant billionaires — up from 92 in 2022 to 125 in 2025 — reflects a shifting demographic and reinforces what Forbes describes as the “immigrant mindset”: a blend of resilience, innovation, and the drive to seize opportunity that continues to shape America’s economic landscape.

Here is the top 10 America’s richest immigrants:

  1. Elon Musk. Net worth: $393.1B
  2. Sergey Brin. Net worth: $139.7B
  3. Jensen Huang. Net worth: $137.9B
  4. Thomas Peterffy. Net worth: $67.9B
  5. Miriam Adelson & Family. Net worth: $33.4B
  6. Rupert Murdoch & Family: Net worth: $24B
  7. Peter Thiel: Net worth: $21.8B
  8. Jay Chaudhry. Net worth: $17.9B
  9. Jan Koum. Net worth: $16.9B
  10. John Tu. Net worth: $14.1B

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Tinubu involved in destabilising Opposition Parties —Tambuwal says

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A former governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, has accused President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of destabilising the opposition. 

Tambuwal spoke on Friday when he was featured on Channels Television’s Politics Today, claiming the APC and Tinubu have intentionally plotted the fall of the opposition parties in the country. 

“When you look at what is happening in various political parties in Nigeria today, you don’t need to be told, no matter the amount of denial by whoever, including President Bola Tinubu, that they are not involved in destabilisation efforts of opposition parties. It is incorrect,”  Tambuwal said on the current affairs show.

“I am not accusing them. I am saying they are involved in efforts aimed at destabilisation of opposition parties,” he stated, doubling down on his claims. 

When asked about facts to back up his allegation, Tambuwal insisted, “I am saying, I am not suspecting. They are involved in all of this,” the former Speaker of the House of Representatives told the host Seun Okinbaloye. 

Tinubu was elected as president in 2023, defeating ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP), among others.

While these parties produced governors, members of the National and state assemblies, most of the opposition political leaders have decamped to the APC, raising concerns about the country’s democracy.

Governors under the PDP, LP lawmakers and others have in recent months left their parties for the APC. Some of the parties are also having internal squabbles, a development Tambuwal alleged that the ruling party is responsible for.

As part of efforts to curtail the APC, some aggrieved members of the ruling party, PDP, LP and others floated a coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Some members of the ADC include Atiku, Obi, ex-Osun governor Rauf Aregbesola, ex-Senate President David Mark, former governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, among others.

However, the APC has dismissed their efforts with President Tinubu describing the opposition as “a sinking ship”.

“It’s not a bad idea to abandon the sinking ship and be absent from a coalition of confusion,” Tinubu told a gathering in July during the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the APC in Abuja, where a former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Nentawe Yilwatda, was elected as the national chairman of the party.

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10 most popular baby names

In a continuing trend, Olivia and Liam have been named the most popular baby names for 2023 in the United States, marking the fifth year in a row that these names have held the top spot. 

The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced the rankings, which saw Noah and Emma secure second place for the most popular boy and girl names, respectively.

Mateo was the only new entry in the top ten list for boys this year.

Each year, the SSA releases a list of the top 1,000 most popular baby names to celebrate Mother’s Day. 

This tradition began in 1997, and the database includes names dating back to 1880.

The influence of popular media on baby names is evident in this year’s list. The name Kaeli saw a significant rise, jumping 1,692 spots, likely influenced by social media star Kaeli McEwen. 

Similarly, the name Chozen, the second-fastest rising boy’s name, gained popularity following its use for a hero in the latest season of the Netflix show “Cobra Kai.”

Other rapidly rising girl names this year include Alitzel, Emryn, Adhara, and Azari. Among boys, Izael, Eiden, Cassian, and Kyren saw the fastest increases in popularity.

Top 10 most popular baby names (Boys): 

1. Liam

2. Noah

3. Oliver

4. James

5. Elijah

6. Mateo

7. Theodore

8. Henry

9. Lucas

10. William. 

Top 10 most popular girls’ names

1. Olivia

2. Emma

3. Charlotte

4. Amelia

5. Sophia

6. Mia

7. Isabella

8. Ava

9. Evelyn

10. Luna

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Reactions as Benue lady murdered by ex-Boyfriend Lintex Ogale in Lagos two years after their breakup

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Shock and outrage have trailed the brutal killing of a young woman from Benue State, allegedly by her ex-boyfriend, in Lagos on Thursday night.

The victim, an interior decorator who recently completed her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), was reportedly attacked in her residence by the suspect, identified as Lintex Ogale. According to the victim’s sister, the pair ended their relationship in August 2023, but Ogale allegedly refused to move on, often threatening that if he could not marry her, no one else would.

On the night of the incident, Ogale allegedly disguised himself as a dispatch rider to gain access to the estate. When denied entry, he reportedly scaled the fence, cut her gas pipe in an apparent attempt to cause an explosion, and later broke into her home. Neighbours said he attacked the victim with a knife, stabbing her multiple times until she collapsed.

The suspect, who allegedly tried to harm himself after the act, was overpowered and pinned down by neighbours until police arrived.

The victim’s family described her as a hardworking young woman with a promising future, whose life was cut short by what they called “a relationship by force.”

Police have confirmed the arrest of the suspect as investigations continue.

10 most dangerous cities in the world

With over 4,416 cities worldwide, there are seemingly endless places to travel to and cultures to experience around the globe.

The world’s 50 most dangerous cities are located in 11 countries, including Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Puerto Rico, South Africa, the United States, and Venezuela. 

Brazil has the most cities on the list with 17, followed by Mexico with 12. Brazil, Mexico, and Venezuela are the only countries with cities in the top ten most dangerous cities in the world. 

Among the ten most dangerous cities in the world, Mexico has five cities, Brazil has three, and Venezuela has two.

The ten most dangerous cities in the world are discussed below:

1. Los Cabos

Los Cabos, Mexico tops the annual list of the most deadly areas of Mexico, compiled by the Citizens Council for Public Safety and Criminal Justice. It is the most dangerous city in the world.

Los Cabos has a homicide rate of 111.3 per 100,000. 

2. Caracas

Caracas, the capital of Venezuela is the second most dangerous city in the world. It is the deadliest city in Venezuela. It has 111.2 deaths per 100,000. Armed robbery, carjacking, mugging, and burglary are all common crimes in Caracas.

3. Acapulco

Acapulco, Mexico, has a crime rate of 104.73 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants. It is the world’s third most dangerous city with high crime rates of all sorts.

4. Natal 

Natal, Brazil. Natal is the topmost city for all crimes including physical and sexual assault, theft, and carjacking, in Brazil. It is the fourth most dangerous city. It has 102.6 deaths per 100,000.

5. Tijuana

Tijuana, Mexico, has 100.8 deaths per 100,000. Tijuana is the fifth most dangerous city in the world. It has become the stronghold of organised crime groups including smugglers.

6. La Paz

La Paz,  Mexico is the sixth most dangerous city in the world with a crime rate of 84.79 per 100,000 residents. In La Paz, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft of backpacks or luggage are quite common, especially in crowded areas like local markets, public transport, and tourist hotspots. 

7. Fortaleza

Fortaleza, Brazil has 83.5 deaths per 100,000, and it is the seventh most dangerous city in the world. Fortleza has one of the highest rates of violence in Brazil, a factor linked to social deprivation which has been identified as hurting health-seeking behaviours.

8. Ciudad Victoria

Ciudad Victoria, Mexico has 83.3 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants. It is placed as number eight of the most dangerous cityin the world. Common crimes in the city include drug trafficking, robbery, carjacking, and murder, and frequent shootouts and violence among drug cartels.

9. Ciudad Guayana

Ciudad Guyana, Venezuela is the second deadliest city in Venezuela and ninth in the world with 80.3 deaths per 100,000 people. The city reeks of crimes like rape, murder, and sexual assault, as a result of the activities of organised gangs and economic hardships.

10. Belem

Belem, Brazil has 71.4 deaths per 100,000 people. It is the tenth most dangerous city in the world. In Belem, petty crimes like pickpocketing, bag-snatching and opportunistic thefts are quite common, particularly in crowded places and touristy areas. 

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Billionaire businessman Femi Otedola tells his daughter, Temi, in an emotional speech at her wedding

You have to succumb to your husband; he’s your boss” — Billionaire businessman Femi Otedola tells his daughter, Temi, in an emotional speech at her wedding.

“Temi, I wish you all the best in your future endeavours. You found a great guy. Very great guy. Blessed guy. He comes from a very decent family.”

But his most striking counsel came as he charged his daughter: “One thing I will advise you, Temi, is… You have to succumb to the whims of your husband. Okay? He is your husband and he is your boss. There is no more daddy. Don’t come here.”

Otedola praised the love he observed between Temi and her husband, Tosin: “You are truly in love with each other. Truly,truly in love with each other. Temi is an entrepreneur. Tosin is an entrepreneur. So you match each other. This is made in heaven.”

He encouraged Tosin, saying: “But Tosin… You are going to go places. I have seen the entrepreneurial skill in you. When we were much younger… We think we are used to us, but not like your generation. And it has always paid off.”

He further urged the couple: “Continue to love, Temi. When you have issues or problems, just keep them to yourself.Never call any friend and have this problem. Just keep it within your walls. And God will bless you and bless your marriage.”

Concluding, Otedola thanked the guests: “I thank you all. And I wish you safe travels back to the various places you have come from. God bless you all. I love you all. Thank you all.”

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10 of the most influential and powerful kings in Nigeria

Nigeria has some of the most influential traditional leaders in Nigeria. Although, these leaders do not hold official political powers nor are they elected like presidents, governors these kings still play an important part in the society, and their influence is undeniable.

1. The Ooni of Ife (Ile-Ife, Osun State)

The Ooni of Ife is more than just a king among the Yoruba people of Osun state, Nigeria. He is regarded as a spiritual leader and a custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition. The current Ooni of Ife is Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II) (ascended in 2015). The influence of the Ooni of Ife is felt far and wide amongst the Yoruba people of Nigeria.

2. The Alaafin of Oyo (Oyo, Oyo State)

In the Yoruba land, the Alaafin of Oyo is the ruler of the Ancient Oyo Empire, this is a title that holds influence in Nigeria despite the fact that the empire no longer exists. The current ruling Alaafin of Oyo is Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade and he was selected in January 2025 after a series of consultations by the traditional council of Oyo Kingdom.

3. The Oba of Benin (Benin Kingdom, Edo State)

The Kingdom of Benin is home to the Edo people, who were known for their skilled craftsmanship. In the rainforest of Southwestern Nigeria, the kingdom of Benin is speculated to have being around for over 10 centuries and the influence of the Oba of Benin is spread beyond the bothers of his indigenous people. The current Oba of Benin is Oba Ewuare II (ascended in 2016).

4. The Sultan of Sokoto (Sokoto Caliphate, Sokoto State)

The Sokoto Caliphate, a powerful Islamic empire that once ruled much of Northern Nigeria. Being the most powerful Islamic leader in Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III who ascended in 2006 is a major role player in matters of Islam in Nigeria.

5. The Emir of Kano (Kano, Kano State)

Kano has been a key trade and political center for centuries. Even before the arrival of the British to this region. The Emir of Kano is not just a cultural custodian of the Hausa/Fulani people, he’s also a major player in Islamic religion majorly practiced in the northern region of Nigeria. The current Emir of Kano is Aminu Ado Bayero (ascended in 2020).

6. The Olu of Warri (Itsekiri Kingdom, Delta State)

The Olu of Warri is the ruling Monarch of the Itsekiri Kingdom in the middle belt region of Nigeria. The Itsekiri people are a riverine based people, and they refer to their land as Iwerre the Itsekiri are known for their trade, particularly with the Europeans in the pre-colonial and colonial era of Nigeria. The current Olu of Warri is Ogiame Atuwatse III (ascended in 2021).

7. The Obi of Onitsha

The current ruling Obi of Onitsha is His Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe and he ascended the throne on May 14, 2002. His prowess cannot be ignored in the region as he has Influence amongst the Igbo people of Anambra state.

8. Oba of Lagos

The Oba of Lagos, also known as the Eleko of Eko is regarded as the custodian of the cultural heritage of Lagos thecommercial city of Nigeria. The Oba of Lagos is not a political position but that doesn’t downplay his influence in the region as Oba. The current Oba of Lagos is Oba Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu and he ascended the throne inMay 24, 2003.

9. Obi of Nnewi

Nnewi is a region in Anambra state, Nigeria known for its industrial prowess and entrepreneurial spirit, particularly in manufacturing, hence the nickname “Japan of Africa”. The King of Nnewi is called the Obi as it is in the Igbo culture.The current ruling Obi of Nnewi is Igwe Kenneth Orizu III. He is the longest-serving monarch in Anambra State, and he has been able to grow his influence beyond just cultural duties, into business, economic growth and education.

10. The Obong of Calabar (Efik Kingdom, Cross River State)

The current Obong is Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V (Reinstated in 2023). He rules over the Efik people of southern Nigeria and has gained influence and popularity through the famous Calabar carnival.

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“I’m not a thief, I’m not a fugitive” – Wanted Sujimoto breaksdown in tears as EFCC hunts him

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Chief Executive Officer of Sujimoto, Sijibomi Ogundele has explained what transpired that led to him being declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

In a video shared online, Ogundele said it was a case of a deal gone bad, promising to visit the anti-graft agency to clear his name.

He said, “I’m not a thief, I’m not a fugitive. This is a contract between my company and Enugu State Government. Enugu State Government asked me to help them build a couple of things which was very interesting. I was going to the state every week.

In the middle of the project, the governor said he wanted to build a city and he wanted to build the tallest building in Nigeria.

“I was in agreement with the government after they took us to court. Now they declared me wanted, they destroyed my company that I built. I am going to the EFCC office to clear my name, In the last five years prices have gone crazy,something I could have done in two years was delayed.”

He was declared wanted in a notice signed by EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, and published on its official X handle on Friday.

The notice stated: “The public is hereby notified that Olasijibomi Ogundele of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, whose photograph appears above, is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in an alleged case of diversion of funds and money laundering.

“Ogundele is a 44-year-old indigene of Ori-Ade Local Government Area of Osun State. His last known address is: G29, Banana Island, Ikoyi, Lagos State.

“Anybody with useful information as to his whereabouts should please contact the Commission in its Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Lagos, Gombe, Port Harcourt or Abuja offices, or through 08093322644; its e-mail address: [email protected], or the nearest Police Station and other security agencies.”

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Mr Sijibomi Ogundele, aka Sujimoto, is wanted by EFCC for alleged money laundering and funds diversion

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared Olasijibomi Ogundele, a Lagos-based businessman, wanted over alleged “diversion of funds and money laundering”.

Ogundele is the chief executive officer (CEO) of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited. The company deals in real estate.

The anti-graft agency declared Ogundele wanted in a notice published on Friday and signed by Dele Oyewale, EFCC spokesperson.

“Anybody with useful information as to his whereabouts should please contact the Commission in its offices.”

It would not be Ogundele’s first brush with law enforcement in recent times. In October 2024, he was detained at the force criminal investigation department in Abuja over alleged fraud.

The police had received a petition written by Pelumi Olajengbesi, a human rights lawyer, accusing Ogundele of obtaining the sum of $325,000 from one Kabiru Ibrahim by false pretence in November 2020.

In the petition, Olajengbesi alleged that after Ibrahim handed Ogundele the sum as 50 per cent payment for a three-bedroom flat in an estate, it was later discovered that Ogundele’s company did not have such a housing project ongoing.

Ogundele was later released by the police.

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