Nigeria

China urges African countries to unite ‘Global South’

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on African leaders to unite the “Global South” in advocating for international equity and justice amid major global changes. In meetings with African leaders attending the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, Xi stressed the importance of solidarity among developing nations. Xi highlighted new partnerships, including a “Comprehensive Strategic Cooperation Partnership” with South Africa and proposed three types of collaboration with Kenya: mutual trust, win-win cooperation, and strategic alignment on international and regional issues. With Comoros, Xi emphasized cooperation as a model of equality and solidarity, offering support to combat poverty and utilize the country’s geographical advantages. He also invited Seychelles to join the China-Indian Ocean Development Cooperation Forum and urged faster sustainable use of marine resources. Regarding Eritrea, Xi proposed enhanced cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and agriculture, noting shared views on international matters. In discussions with Guinea, Xi highlighted FOCAC’s role in boosting practical cooperation and supporting Guinea’s development. With Chad, Xi supported the country’s sovereignty and security, while Chad reaffirmed its adherence to the “One China” policy. In his meeting with Malawi, Xi discussed leveraging opportunities from China’s modernization and increasing cooperation in various fields. Xi reiterated Africa’s crucial role as a global power and China’s diplomatic focus, advocating for a multipolar world and inclusive economic globalization. The FOCAC’s ninth summit will take place in Beijing from September 4-6, with leaders from over 50 countries attending. Eswatini will not participate due to its diplomatic ties with Taiwan.

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161 Nigerian students denied entry at UK border

Between 2021 and 2023, 1,425 international students were denied entry to the UK at airports. Among them were 161 Nigerians, as revealed by UK Home Office data obtained via the Freedom of Information Act. Indian students were the most affected, representing 45% of those turned away, with 644 removals. Nigerians made up 11.3%, while students from Ghana and Bangladesh accounted for 6.46% and 6.32%, respectively. The data, covering October 2021 to October 2023, only reflects students refused entry at the border and does not include those deported for visa violations. The Home Office did not provide specific reasons for these removals, but sources indicate issues such as failing to convince Border Force officers, presenting forged documents, or language barriers. Immigration lawyer Dele Olawanle criticized the practice, arguing that Border Force officers have overstepped by questioning students about their academic courses, which sometimes leads to visa cancellations. Data analyst Nelly Okechukwu recounted a similar experience, where he was questioned about his studies despite having graduated years earlier.

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