Tag: Canada

  • Education or Restriction? How Nigeria’s Age-Based University Policy Risks Stifling Our Brightest Minds

    Education or Restriction? How Nigeria’s Age-Based University Policy Risks Stifling Our Brightest Minds

    By Milcah Tanimu

    The story of the Imafidon family urges us to reflect on the paths we are paving for our children and the potential we might be stifling. The recent proposal by the Nigerian Education Minister to impose an age restriction for university admission threatens to curtail the opportunities for some of our most talented young minds before they have a chance to excel.

    Historically, wisdom was imparted by guiding youth without imposing arbitrary limits. Yet, Nigeria’s latest policy seeks to reinstate outdated practices where age, rather than potential, determines one’s eligibility for higher education. The Minister of Education’s recent announcement mandates that students must be at least eighteen years old to gain university admission—a move that has sparked significant debate.

    This policy appears regressive in a world where children are mastering technology from a very young age. Restricting university entry based on age not only hampers individual growth but also widens the educational gap between Nigerian students and their peers globally. In an era where digital literacy begins early, preventing capable students from advancing based on age alone is a step backward, reminiscent of times when elders dictated the limits of one’s potential.

    The justification for this policy, aimed at ensuring maturity and readiness, overlooks the reality that age does not equate to wisdom or preparedness. Readiness for higher education should be assessed based on ability and achievement rather than arbitrary age limits. The Imafidons, often referred to as “Britain’s Brainiest Family,” exemplify the success that can come from allowing young minds to thrive without such constraints. Anne-Marie Imafidon, who passed her GCSEs at ten and A-level computing at eleven, and Saheela Ibraheem, admitted to Harvard at fifteen, highlight the potential that can be achieved when age barriers are removed.

    If these individuals had faced the proposed age restrictions in Nigeria, their exceptional talents might have been suppressed, and their contributions delayed. The risk of this policy is clear: it may prevent the emergence of future leaders and innovators who could propel Nigeria forward.

    Comparatively, countries like Australia, the UK, Canada, and the US admit students based on ability rather than age. Are we prepared to fall behind in a global landscape that values youthful talent and potential? This policy could also exacerbate educational inequality, favoring the wealthy who can afford to bypass local restrictions by studying abroad. Meanwhile, less affluent students would be disadvantaged, perpetuating a cycle of inequality and brain drain.

    Rather than enforcing age limits, Nigeria’s education policy should focus on addressing the root causes of educational disparity and fostering an environment that values merit over age. Enhancing university capacity, resolving issues such as frequent strikes, and supporting academic excellence should be the priorities.

    The proposed age restriction is a step in the wrong direction. Nigeria should aim to nurture all its children, creating a system that values ability and aligns with global educational standards. As the saying goes, “A child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” Let us be a nation that embraces and supports every child’s potential, no matter how young they may be.

    Michael Felix Nyeche holds a strong background in development communication, complemented by advanced studies in intelligence and social and public policy.

  • 10 Countries Allowing Foreign Students to Bring Dependents

    10 Countries Allowing Foreign Students to Bring Dependents

    By Milcah Tanimu

    Some countries with renowned educational institutions recognize the importance of having loved ones nearby while studying. These countries have established dependent visa programs allowing foreign students to bring their family members along.

    Canada
    Canada is a top choice for students wanting to stay with their families while studying, despite the higher costs. The country’s immigration policies enable students to bring their spouses and children, with dependents allowed to work full-time under specific conditions. Required documents include visa applications, proof of relationship, acceptance letters, financial proof, language proficiency, medical exams, and police clearance. More information is available at [IRCC Canada](https://ircc.canada.ca).

    Finland
    Finland offers a D visa, providing 100 days of residency before obtaining a full residence permit. It’s easier for international students to bring their spouses after settling in. Applicants need financial stability to support dependents. For detailed information, visit [Finland](https://www.finland.fi).

    Germany
    Germany provides a family reunion visa, allowing dependents to reside temporarily or permanently. Dependents can also work in Germany. Requirements include the sponsor’s valid residence permit, adequate living space, health insurance, financial security, German language skills, and age declarations. More details can be found at [German Foreign Office](https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/buergerservice/faq/09-familiennachzug-studenten/606700).

    Malta
    Malta is a popular English-speaking destination in Europe for international students. The country offers family visas for spouses, children, and other dependents. Eligibility criteria include relationship proof, financial stability, health insurance, and accommodation proof. More information is available at [Identity Malta](https://identita.gov.mt).

    Japan
    Japan allows foreign students to bring their spouses and children through a dependent visa. Applications can be made via overseas Japanese embassies or through a Certificate of Eligibility at an immigration bureau in Japan. It’s advisable to secure stable accommodation first. Visit [GRIPS](https://www.grips.ac.jp/en/education/students/visa_information/depend_visa/) for more information.

    Australia
    Australia permits most students to bring their immediate family members, including spouses and children under 18. Dependent partners may have unrestricted work rights, and children can attend school. Details can be found at [Study Australia](https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au).

    Austria
    Austria allows students to bring their family members by applying for residence permits and visas. Requirements include financial proof, being over 21 for married couples, and ensuring sufficient funds. More information is available at [Migration Austria](https://www.migration.gv.at/en/types-of-immigration/permanent-immigration/family-reunification/).

    China
    China offers S1 and S2 visas for family members of foreign residents. The S1 visa is for long-term stays and can be extended, while the S2 visa is for short-term visits. For more details, visit [China Embassy](http://ng.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/lsfw/zytz/201903/t20190301_7775770.htm).

    Denmark
    Denmark’s student dependent visa allows spouses and children under 18 to join international students. Although learning Danish is beneficial, English proficiency tests are not required. For more information, visit [New to Denmark](https://www.nyidanmark.dk/en-GB/Applying/Familie/Medfoelgende%20familie).

    USA
    The United States offers F-2 visas for spouses and unmarried children under 21 of international students. It’s essential to check specific institutional requirements before applying. More details can be found at [US State Department](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study/student-visa.html).

    Before making any applications, conduct thorough research on your chosen course, institution, and country. Consult with the respective country’s embassy to ensure compliance with all requirements and secure your stay with your family.

  • 5 Places Where People Walk Around Naked and It’s Completely Normal

    5 Places Where People Walk Around Naked and It’s Completely Normal

    By Milcah Tanimu

    While clothing is a societal norm in most places, there are specific locations where people choose to embrace nudity, and it’s considered completely normal. Here are five places where walking around naked is widely accepted:

    1. **Wreck Beach, Vancouver, Canada:** Wreck Beach in Vancouver, Canada, is a nude beach where individuals can enjoy the sun, swim, and participate in recreational activities without the need for clothing.

    2. **Praia do Pinho, Brazil:** Situated on the southern coast of Brazil, Praia do Pinho is a nude beach providing a retreat for nudists who freely walk around without judgment.

    3. **Hidden Beach Resort, Mexico:** The Hidden Beach Resort in Mexico offers a luxurious nudist experience with clothing-optional pools, gourmet dining, and various activities where guests can choose to be naked.

    4. **Suomenlinna Island, Finland:** In Finland, Suomenlinna Island is known for nude saunas, where locals and visitors come together to enjoy the relaxation of communal nudity in saunas.

    5. **Cap d’Agde, France:** Referred to as the “Naked City,” Cap d’Agde in France is a naturist village that extends beyond beaches. It features nudist campgrounds, resorts, and various events, providing a haven for those embracing a clothing-free lifestyle.

    These places offer a unique opportunity for individuals to celebrate the human body and experience a different perspective on societal norms.

  • Nigeria and Canada Play to an Eventful Draw: 10 Key Takeaways

    In the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Nigeria faced off against Group B favourites and reigning Olympic champion, Canada, at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium in Australia in the early hours of Friday.

    Aside from the match ending in a scoreless draw, here are 10 interesting facts to know about it.

    1 . In comparison to the previous two games, the match saw a more eventful display, with two yellow cards and one red card shown.

    2. Leading the charge for Canada was the seasoned powerhouse forward Christine Sinclair, 40, who boasts an impressive record of 190 goals and over 300 caps throughout her illustrious 22-year career.

    3. On the opposing side, Nigeria had star defender Onome Ebi, also aged 40, taking charge. Both Sinclair and Ebi made their sixth World Cup appearance, showcasing their experience and talent on the international stage.

    4. Goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie turned the heroine of the match played in Brisbane after saving Christine Sinclair’s penalty early in the second half.

    5. Falcons midfielder, Deborah Abiodun, was sent off late on in the game for a dangerous foul.

    6. Both teams finished the first half creating no dangerous chance.

    7. In the 23rd minute, the Nigerian ladies went close in search of the opener despite Canada’s early dominance when Ifeoma Onumonu had her well-taken shot parried away by goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan.

    8. In the 98th minute, Abiodun was shown a straight card after consultation with VAR for a bad tackle on Ashley Lawrence.

    9. The game had a high tempo and intense physicality throughout.

    10. Barcelona forward Asisat Oshoala was unable to shine but the Nigerian defence gave away little against the attack of the team.

  • 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup: Nigeria vs. Canada – Date, TV, and Live Stream Info

    2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup: Nigeria vs. Canada – Date, TV, and Live Stream Info

    Nigeria is set to kick off their quest for a historic FIFA Women’s World Cup victory as they face off against Canada in a highly anticipated match. Despite the challenges that the Super Falcons have faced during their preparations, they understand the significance of securing a win against the reigning Olympics champions to keep their aspirations alive.

    For Canada’s women, caution is advised as they have yet to secure a victory against the Nigerian team in previous editions of the global football spectacle. The last encounter between the two teams in the 2011 edition saw Nigeria claim a 1-0 victory, with Perpetua Nkwocha’s decisive 84th-minute goal securing the win at Rudolf-Harbig-Stadion.

    Football enthusiasts can catch all the action live on TV or through the available live streaming platforms.

  • Trade volume between Nigeria, Canada rises to $2.7bn

    Trade volume between Nigeria, Canada rises to $2.7bn

    The Canadian Trade Commissioner to Nigeria, Temitayo Dada, has said Nigeria is Canada’s largest trading partner in Africa with $2.67bn in bilateral merchandise trade.

    She disclosed this during the Canada-Nigeria Trade Mission’s Event 2022 Agenda organised by Africa Canada Trade and Investment Venture in Lagos.

    Dada said, “Nigeria is undeniably a key strategic partner for Canada on the continent and promoting trade and relations between Canada and Nigeria is a priority of the Canadian government.

    “In 2021, Nigeria became Canada’s largest trading partner in Africa with $2.7bn in bilateral merchandise trade. That same year, Canadian merchandise imports from Nigeria amounted to $2.1bn, with Canada’s export to Nigeria totalling $605.4m.”

    She added, “I am convinced that we have only touched the surface in terms of our trade potential and events like this can help grow the relationship. To date, Canada’s imports from Nigeria have included mineral fuels and oils, cocoa, rubber, and lead and our primary export to Nigeria are manufacturing equipment, wheat, aircraft, and cars.”

    She further said, “The government of Canada is working with our Nigerian partners on the trade policy fronts to enhance market access and create a more enabling environment for business. We recently finalised negotiations on air transport agreement and hope to ratify it soon. This will make travel between Nigeria and Canada easier and strengthen people-to-people ties.”

    According to her, technical discussions on establishing a foreign investment protection agreement have resumed, adding that this will increase the flow of investment between the two countries.

    Also speaking at the event, the Head, Legal, DeltaAfrik Engineering Limited, Olubukola Adesida, said, “Speaking from the legal angle, we have had about the potential for investments and partnerships. However, based on my years of experience, I understand that the first hurdle businessmen usually have is respect to choosing credible business partners and considering that fact that the upcoming partners are coming from the Diaspora.”

    She said, “The first thing is how do I choose credible Nigerian partners? How do we navigate that very tricky space because Nigeria’s documentation repository is still upcoming, and we will also have to applaud the Corporate Affairs Commission.

    She added, “For example, they have beefed up certain information with their record keeping and things are getting better. You can do a desktop search now and check-up the profile of a potential partner.

     However, going beyond the desktop search, you now want to look at how you can have a lasting contractual partnership. There must be a detailed due diligence exercise on such potential partners. After the partnership, what do you leverage on.”

  • 2023: APC Inaugurates Presidential Campaign Council in Canada

    2023: APC Inaugurates Presidential Campaign Council in Canada

    Ahead of the 2023 general election, the Canada chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has inaugurated its Presidential Campaign Council.

    In a statement issued by a chieftain of the APC in Ondo State and Media Director for the APC Presidential Council for Canada, Dr. Abiola Oshodi, explained that the campaign council which has Jide Oladejo as the chairman, is said to ensure overwhelming and landslide victory for the presidential candidate of the party, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and his running mate, Senator Kassim Shettima, through the support of Nigerians in the North American country.

    According to the statement, in his acceptance speech as the Chairman of the council, Oladejo thanked the leadership of the party for counting his team worthy, assuring the party leadership that the confidence being reposed in the council would be treasured and well guided.

    According to him, “From the lots, only Tinubu has the wherewithal to give birth to a united and prosperous Nigeria in May 2023. The rot in the Nigeria’s system dragging Nigeria backward was caused by PDP’s years of maladministration.”

  • NIHOTOUR, Canada to Partner in job Placements in Canada for Nigerians in Hospitality Industry

    NIHOTOUR, Canada to Partner in job Placements in Canada for Nigerians in Hospitality Industry

    By Joyce Remi-Babayeju

    The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has sought the support of the Canadian High Commission for job placement in Canada for Nigerian professionals in the hospitality industry.

    The Director General of NIHOTOUR , Nura Sani Kangiwa made this request when a delegation of the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria led by Marjorie Lubin, Counsellor for Migration of the Commission paid him a visit in his office in Abuja.

    Kangiwa expressed the readiness of the Institute to partner with the Canadian High Commission in skill acquisition training, manpower development as well as job placement opportunity for Nigerian professionals in hospitality and tourism trades willing to take up employment in Canada.
    He stated that the Institute has produced some of the best crops of professionals currently engaged in quality service delivery at all levels and sub sectors of the industry.
    Kangiwa said that the institute is a citadel of skill acquisition, capacity development and a job creating avenue for professional practice in tourism and hospitality industry to be reckoned with globally.

    Lubin said her team was at the NIHOTOUR Headquarters to solicit for the support and collaboration of the Institute in the Commission’s efforts at helping Nigerian migrants secure available job opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industry in Canada.
    She explained that the Commission’s choice of NIHOTOUR for collaboration was informed by the Institute’s enviable record of performance as a reputable Federal Agency in the provision of high quality Skill Acquisition Training in hospitality and tourism trades of global reckoning.
    Lubin stated that quite a number of reputable and recognized organizations exist in Canada that have approached the Commission seeking for the services of highly trained and skilled Nigerian personnel in hospitality and tourism trades.
    She said that the Commission believes NIHOTOUR is the best contact point in the country to offer the search services for such professionals in the industry especially as the custodian and coordinator of the Hospitality and Tourism Sector Skills Council of Nigeria.
    End

  • Omicron: Canada Lifts Travel Ban On Nigeria, Other African Countries

    Omicron: Canada Lifts Travel Ban On Nigeria, Other African Countries

    Canada announced Friday the lifting of a ban on foreign travelers from 10 African countries, while reimposing testing and warning that the Omicron variant of Covid-19 risks quickly overwhelming hospitals.

    The travel restriction on flights from South Africa, Mozambique, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Eswatini, Namibia, Nigeria, Malawi and Egypt will end at 11:59 pm on Saturday (0459 GMT Sunday), Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos told a news conference.

    The restriction had been announced last month “to slow the arrival of Omicron in Canada and buy us some time,” he said. But with Omicron now spreading within Canada it is “no longer needed.”

    Pre-arrival negative PCR tests for all travelers would also be reinstated as of December 21, Duclos said, while repeating a government warning earlier this week that “now is not the time to travel.”

    Officials said laboratory tests have confirmed as of Friday nearly 350 cases of the Omicron variant across Canada.

    The total average daily Covid case count, meanwhile, has jumped by 45 percent in the past week to about 5,000.

    “It is expected the sheer number of (Omicron) cases could inundate the health system in a very short period of time,” said Chief Public Health Officer Theresa Tam.

  • FG to Restrict Airlines from UK, Saudi Arabia, Others in response to Omicron travel ban

    FG to Restrict Airlines from UK, Saudi Arabia, Others in response to Omicron travel ban

    The Federal Government is to ban flights from the United Kingdom, Canada, Argentina and Saudi Arabia in retaliation against their decisions to have included Nigeria in red list countries.

    Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, disclosed this in a leaked audio, where he revealed that the ban on the three nations would be announced on Monday or Tuesday by the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19.

    The Federal Government had repeatedly kicked against the ban on Nigeria by the UK, Canada and Saudi Arabia after the outbreak of the Omicron variant of COVID-19.

    In the leaked audio, Sirika was providing explanations on why the Federal Government reduced Emirates Airlines daily flights into Nigeria to only one weekly flight, and went ahead to stress that countries that placed Nigeria on red list would receive similar fate from Nigeria.

    He said, “Also, there is a case of Saudi Arabia, which put Nigeria on the banned list – no visa, no travel, etc. So also Canada. So, today, there was a meeting, I participated in a zoom meeting, COVID-19 task force, just for your information also.

    “We have given our input in aviation, it is not acceptable by us and we recommend that those countries – Canada, the UK, Saudi Arabia, and Argentina be also put on red list, as they did similarly to us.

    “If they don’t allow our citizens to go into their countries who are their airlines coming to pick from our country?

    The minister added, “So, I am very sure that in the next few days, between now and Monday, or perhaps Tuesday, at maximum, all those countries will be put on the red list from the PSC (Presidential Steering Committee) from the task force of COVID-19.

    “Once they are put on the red list, which means they are banned, of course, their airlines will be banned. I’m so sorry, we are going through a difficult moment, but we have to do it in the interest of our country.”

    The outbreak of COVID-19 had led to various forms of disagreements between the Federal Government and some nations, particularly in the aviation sector.