As we count down to the March 1st launch of our revised visa policy, which features the E-Visa and an end-to-end application process for Nigerian visas, we are meticulously ensuring that every detail is addressed to deliver a seamless, secure, and safe solution. This initiative aims to unlock Nigeria's economic potential by fostering tourism and business growth.

Nigeria to Rebase GDP and Inflation Data by Month-End: The National Bureau of Statistics plans to rebase the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and inflation data by the end of January. This initiative aims to capture significant changes in sectors such as the marine and blue economy, arts, culture and tourism, information and communication technology, and e-commerce, reflecting current growth and consumption patterns.

Food Tourism Taste the world with food tourism: sushi in Japan, pasta in Italy, tacos in Mexico. Examples of culinary experiences are cooking classes, food festivals, and local markets. Culture to be discovered through flavors and traditions.

Tourism Mountain Escapes Relax in the serenity of mountain destinations: the Alps, Rockies, or Himalayas. Hike through scenic trails, breathe fresh air, and enjoy stunning views. Perfectly set for adventure or to unwind, mountain escapes recharge your spirit and connect you with nature.

Nigeria has been in the news lately for various reasons. Here are some key updates: Recent Events - *General Strike*: The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) called for an indefinite general strike in May 2024, demanding a higher minimum wage due to the rising cost of living. The strike was later suspended, and an agreement was reached to increase the minimum wage to ₦70,000 ¹. - *Economic Reforms*: President Bola Tinubu's government has implemented economic reforms, which have led to inflation rising to its highest rate in almost three decades, exacerbating Nigeria's cost-of-living crisis ¹. - *Security Concerns*: There have been reports of security breaches, including a boat attack in Bayelsa State that killed at least 20 people, and a prison break in Maiduguri that freed over 280 inmates ². Politics and Governance - *Cabinet Reshuffle*: President Tinubu implemented a cabinet reshuffle in October 2024, dismissing several ministers, including those for education, tourism, women's affairs, and youth development ². - *Senate Probe*: The Senate began a probe into allegations that personnel from the Department of State Services had taken over the National Assembly Complex in an attempt to impeach the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio ². Other News - *Flooding*: Heavy rains caused flooding in several states, including Adamawa, Jigawa, and Taraba, displacing over 40,000 people and killing at least 49 ². - *Airstrike*: A Chadian military airstrike mistakenly targeted fishermen on Tilma island, killing scores of civilians ².

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE BLACK MARKET KIOSK: THE WRITING ON THE WALL My initial reaction to the news of Christmas Village kiosks being resold for as high as three hundred thousand naira in the black market was anger. I was vexed at such greed and selfishness. The Pastor Umo Eno-led administration has been intentional about subsidizing livelihoods for our people. Initiatives like the Arise Healthcare Insurance, Bulk Purchase and Food Distribution programmes, testify to the Governor’s efforts to reduce the cost of living for the citizenry. Reducing the cost of kiosks at the Christmas Village from last year's one hundred and fifty thousand naira—despite increased construction and operational costs—was a deliberate move to make them affordable and maximize the profit margin for vendors during the 32 days of Christmas Unplugged 2.0. Yet, some selfish individuals exploited this noble initiative by reselling kiosks with a 300% markup. However, what baffled me even more was that people were willing to pay such exorbitant prices. I couldn’t help but ask myself: What will they sell? At what rate? How will they recoup such an investment and still make a profit? These questions lingered until yesterday morning, when the answers became clear. At 6 a.m., the manager of Amazing Pot, my cousin, called urgently. She requested a soft loan to purchase goat heads for the shop. Half-asleep, I initially dismissed her plea, thinking, What’s the emergency in buying goat head for a night business? But her reply caught my attention: “Christmas Village vendors are rushing goat heads; the available ones are for the highest bidders. If I don’t buy now, there won’t be Isi Ewu at Amazing Pot.” Realizing the urgency, I transferred the money. The Christmas Village, officially opened on December 1, 2024, by the representative of the Governor, and Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, has become a hub of economic activities. Just four days in, vendors are experiencing sales, leading to spikes in demand for goat head. Suddenly, the rationale behind paying three hundred thousand naira for kiosks became evident: the business potential was massive. The Christmas Village was designed not just as a festive venue but as an economic engine. The rich buffet of cultural displays, entertainment, scenic beauty, and tourism potentials have attracted lots of patrons. Vendors, especially those offering local delicacies, have tapped into this influx of customers, making their kiosks a worthwhile investment. As an experienced entrepreneur, Pastor Umo Eno has transformed the Ibibio Museum grounds into a profitable marketplace. While the Governor's concerns over the sharp practices of kiosk black marketers are valid, we must also acknowledge the success story unfolding at the Ibom Christmas Village. This article does not, in any way, rationalize the illegality of kiosks reselling. Instead, it points to the overwhelming demand and the value the Christmas Village has added to the local business community. The writing on the wall is clear: this initiative is not just about celebrating Christmas; it’s about creating opportunities and boosting the economy of Akwa Ibom State. #TheGoldenEraAndYou #AriseAgenda #GovernorUmoEno #AmazingAniebietFrancis

Unemployment refers to the state of being without a paid job, but actively seeking employment. It is a measure of the number of people in a workforce who are not currently working, but are available and willing to work. _Types of Unemployment:_ 1. *Frictional Unemployment*: Temporary unemployment that occurs when workers are transitioning between jobs or entering the workforce for the first time. 2. *Structural Unemployment*: Long-term unemployment that occurs when there is a mismatch between the skills and qualifications of workers and the requirements of available jobs. 3. *Cyclical Unemployment*: Unemployment that occurs due to economic downturns or recessions. 4. *Seasonal Unemployment*: Unemployment that occurs due to seasonal fluctuations in industries such as agriculture, tourism, or construction. _Causes of Unemployment:_ 1. *Economic Downturns*: Recessions, depressions, or other economic downturns can lead to widespread job losses. 2. *Technological Changes*: Automation and technological advancements can replace human workers, leading to unemployment. _Effects of Unemployment:_ 1. *Economic Hardship*: Unemployment can lead to financial difficulties, poverty, and reduced living standards. 2. *Mental Health Issues*: Unemployment can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. _Solutions to Unemployment:_ 1. *Job Training and Education*: Providing workers with the necessary skills and qualifications to compete in the job market. 2. *Economic Stimulus*: Implementing policies to stimulate economic growth, such as tax cuts, infrastructure spending, or monetary policy.

Opobo🇳🇬 👉 A community in Rivers State. 👉 The kingdom was founded in 1870 by Jubo Jubogha AkA JaJa. 👉 The native language is the Ibani, a dialect of Ijaw that is closely related to Kalabari. 👉 Majority speak Igbo called Okwu Ubani which is similar to Ndoki dialect due to their heterogeneous ancestry. 👉 Home of several islands 👉 Opobo is 2 meters above the sea level. 👉 Divided into 14 sections. 👉 Customs and Tradition: Dogs are forbidden, shooting a gun is not allowed, No wearing of caps when passing through a gateway that links a compound to another, making nose, pounding or quarreling at night is forbidden. 👉 Initiation into womanhood is important or some of your rights as a woman would be denied. Visit Opobo🇳🇬🌎 Follow ORA TV #Opobo #opobokingdom #nigeria #riversstate #nigeriantiktok #africa #OraTv #africanfashion #tourism #tour #tours #World #worldwide