Georgia has tightened visa regulations for specific nationalities, including residents of the UAE, as part of amendments officially introduced on April 17, 2025. The revised rules impact citizens of several countries, including Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, even if they hold valid visas or residence permits from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

The regulatory changes caught UAE resident Muhammad, a 31-year-old senior product manager, completely off guard when he and a friend landed at Kutaisi International Airport for the Eid Al Adha holidays. They had flown from Abu Dhabi on a Wizz Air flight.

“We had all the required documents, UAE residency proof, hotel bookings, return tickets, and travel insurance. Some passengers were stopped before boarding, but we were cleared to fly,” said Muhammad, a Pakistani expat.

However, after landing, the situation changed. Before reaching immigration, they were asked for identification by a police officer.

“We were escorted aside, our passports were taken, and our photos were clicked in front of the other passengers,” Muhammad recalled. “We weren’t given any explanation until a female officer handed us rejection-of-entry papers.”

handed us rejection-of-entry papers.”

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Mohammad “felt insulted” by the handling of the entire situation where he and his companion were supposedly treated “like a criminal”.

“We were detained for more than 12 hours in a prison-like room without food, clean water, or proper sanitation.”

Muhammad is now urging others, especially Pakistani passport holders, to carefully reconsider travel plans to Georgia. “We lost money on flights, hotel bookings, insurance, and car rentals, but that’s nothing compared to the mental stress, anxiety, and psychological trauma we endured.”

Georgia introduced the changes through an amendment to the Government Resolution of June 5, 2015, titled “On Approval of the List of Countries, the Visas and/or Residence Permits of which Allow Aliens to Enter Georgia without a Visa for the Appropriate Period and Conditions”.

The updated regulation does not simplify entry procedures, claimed incorrectly by some media and social media reports, but rather introduces stricter requirements aimed at combating illegal migration and ensuring better control of Georgia’s borders.

Key change

Gulf residency no longer automatically grants visa-free access.

Under the previous version of the resolution, citizens of certain countries could enter Georgia without a visa if they held valid visas or residence permits from GCC member states. However, the previous regulation did not specify any minimum validity period for those visas or permits. As of April 17, 2025, this has changed.

Citizens from a designated list of countries who hold multiple-entry visas or residence permits issued by Gulf countries will now only be allowed to enter Georgia without a Georgian visa if their visa or permit is valid for at least one year on the day of entry. This validity must be clearly demonstrated by a passport or other relevant documentation.

Travel agents in the UAE confirmed that after the new policy came into motion, some residents have been stopped at the Georgian immigration.

Speaking to Khaleej Times, Godly Babukutty of Epic Travel said although they have not faced issues with their customers, they are aware of such incidents happening to other residents.

“What Georgia has implemented now is nothing new and many countries have been doing this since years. The reason why Georgia is now tightening its security measures is because people would often not have a proper itinerary or would book tickets without answering all the required questions on the form.”

He also urged residents to ensure all the requirements like hotel bookings, return tickets and cash is prepared before booking flight tickets.

“This is why it is always safer to book through travel agencies who ensure travellers have all the necessary documentation before flying out. We also urge our customers to never travel without insurance.”

Affected countries

This restriction specifically applies to nationals of the following countries:

Pakistan

Afghanistan

Bangladesh

Ghana

Ethiopia

Eritrea

Yemen

Cameroon

Côte d’Ivoire

Democratic Republic of Congo

Morocco

Nigeria

Somalia

Syria

Sudan

Tanzania

Uganda

These individuals will no longer be granted visa-free access to Georgia simply by virtue of holding a short-term visa or residence permit from a Gulf country. Only those with a minimum one-year validity on their Gulf-issued visa or permit will qualify for visa-free entry.

Georgia emphasises that these amendments are designed to tighten existing rules, not to ease them. According to official statement, misinterpretations circulating in the media suggesting otherwise are false and do not reflect the actual content or intent of the legislative changes.

Rising tensions in Irele Local Government Area of Ondo State have sparked widespread concern as unresolved issues surrounding the vacant Olofun of Irele stool and escalating land disputes threaten the peace and stability of the region ahead of the annual Ore Festival.

The continued absence of a traditional ruler for the town has left a leadership vacuum, fueling uncertainty and deepening divisions within the community. At the same time, several land ownership conflicts have led to reports of intimidation, displacement, and in some cases, violence among feuding families.

Residents and stakeholders have now turned to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, calling for urgent intervention to restore order and uphold the integrity of the traditional institution. Many warn that if left unresolved, the issues could disrupt the forthcoming cultural festival and trigger broader unrest.

Among the key demands from the community are the swift resolution of the succession crisis, the establishment of a government-backed mediation panel to address land-related grievances, and protection for affected families. They also call on the government to uphold the dignity of the Olofun stool and prevent political interference in the selection process.

“The Ore Festival is approaching, and the atmosphere is far from peaceful,” said a local chief. “We need the governor to act with the urgency and fairness this moment demands.”

Despite some local attempts at reconciliation, sources say progress has stalled due to the absence of structured state-level intervention.

As expectations mount, residents of Irele and across Ondo State look to Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration to provide leadership that ensures justice, cultural continuity, and community harmony.

The Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr Paul Enenche, has organsied a free medical outreach, and empowered over 500 widows and less-privileged individuals in the Sabo Iddo community in the Federal Capital Territory.

According to a statement issued on Thursday, the church said the gesture, which formed part of activities to commemorate his birthday, touched both rural and urban communities.

The statement read, “At the church’s headquarters in Abuja, over 500 widows, 10 orphanages, and numerous children received various forms of empowerment and welfare support.

“Relief materials, food, and essential items were also distributed to widows, orphans, and other vulnerable groups as part of the church’s commitment to spreading hope, compassion, and God’s love.”

Quoting Enenche while speaking during the unveiling of a borehole in the community, he said, “What better way to celebrate life than by giving life? As I marked another year of God’s faithfulness, it was laid on my heart to give back in a way that will keep blessing lives long after the candles are out.”

He described the clean water initiative as more than a physical need, saying it represented hope, health, and love.

“This is not just water; it’s a flow of hope, health, and love. To God alone be all the glory,” he added.

While addressing the community, Enenche also led a prayer session and encouraged residents to not only receive the material and medical support but to develop a relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of both spiritual and physical well-being.

Medical professionals were on the ground to diagnose and treat several health issues, including hypertension, diabetes, diarrhea in children, peptic ulcer disease, malaria, and various infections.

The Head of the Welfare Department at Dunamis Church, David Ozigi, highlighted that the outreach reflects the core teachings of the church.

“Today’s outreach is a demonstration of God’s love, which our father in the Lord, Dr Enenche, has continually shown. It is his passion to serve and uplift communities, and we are here in that same spirit,” he said.

Ozigi explained that the borehole project was initiated following a thorough needs assessment of the Sabo Iddo community, which revealed inadequate access to potable water.

“This borehole is a modest contribution to enhance the availability of clean water, reduce waterborne diseases, and improve the overall health of the residents,” he noted.

A legal confrontation is unfolding between the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) over alleged illegal mining activities in Rafin Gabbas, Agwada town, Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

The dispute, now before the Federal High Court in Abuja, stems from conflicting claims over the handling of a controversial mining site reportedly linked to serious crimes including culpable homicide, trafficking of underage children for forced labour, and obstruction of justice.

In suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/901/2025, the police accuse the Commander of the NSCDC’s Mining Marshal, John Onoja, of aiding and shielding illegal mining operations allegedly carried out by two firms—Capital Apex Synergy Global Services Ltd and Nizhong Mining Company Ltd.

An affidavit submitted by Gregory Woje on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police stated that the Force had received four petitions—two from traditional rulers and two from legal practitioners—alleging widespread illegal mining and deaths resulting from unsafe practices at the site.

The police claim that underage children trafficked from various northern states were being used as mine labourers, kept working for long hours under dangerous conditions and allegedly drugged to endure the stress.

“These underage children are being fed hard drugs to keep them working tirelessly. Many of them have died and are buried in secrecy. Villagers who attempt to report these crimes are often silenced—either killed or maimed. The entire community now lives in fear, unable to go to their farms,” the affidavit read.

The police also allege that NSCDC personnel previously arrested during the investigation were released without due process.

Justice Emeka Nwite, in a ruling dated May 20, 2025, issued a restraining order barring Onoja and his team from interfering with the site or conducting further operations there, pending the outcome of the investigation.

Super Falcons midfielder Jennifer Echegini is aiming for a memorable outing with the Nigerian national team at the upcoming CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), set to kick off on July 5 in Morocco, Akelicious reports.

The 24-year-old, who stars for French giants Paris Saint-Germain in the Division 1 Féminine, is set to make her debut at Africa’s premier women’s football tournament. The 12-nation competition will take place at the newly constructed Olympic Stadium in Rabat, the Moroccan capital.

Although this will be her first appearance at WAFCON, Echegini is no stranger to major international tournaments. She was part of the Nigerian squad at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, helping the team reach the knockout stage. She also featured at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, where the Falcons exited in the group phase.

Speaking to CAFOnline, Echegini expressed her excitement ahead of her WAFCON debut.

“It’s very special. I’ve been in major international competitions, but I haven’t played in a WAFCON yet. This will be my first time, and I’m very excited,” she said. “I watched the last edition two years ago and already thought: ‘One day, it’ll be my turn.’ Now that moment is here. It’s a different atmosphere, a different energy. Representing my country on the African continent is a huge honor. The Women’s AFCON is about history, culture, emotion. I can’t wait to live it from the inside.”

Echegini acknowledged the weight of expectations that comes with donning the Nigerian jersey.

“This tournament brings a different kind of intensity, a unique emotion. It’s our legacy—we live with it. The pressure has always been there. When you wear the Nigerian jersey, you know the expectations are sky-high. But that’s a good thing. It’s those standards that shape who we are,” she added.

“Nigeria has won this competition multiple times. As the new generation, it’s our duty to carry on that tradition. So yes, there’s pressure. But everyone—the fans, the staff, us—wants the same thing: victory. My role is to create, organize, and also score when I can. I want to be a constant support for my teammates across all areas of the pitch.”

Echegini comes into the tournament on the back of an impressive 2024/2025 season with PSG, where she made 18 league appearances, scored seven goals, and contributed four assists, helping her side finish second behind Olympique Lyon. She also featured in two UEFA Women’s Champions League matches, bringing her season total to 20 appearances, seven goals, and four assists across all competitions.

With 11 caps and two goals already for the Super Falcons, Echegini is expected to be a key figure in the team’s quest for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.

Nigeria has been drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria. The Super Falcons will open their campaign against Tunisia on July 7, face Botswana on July 14, and wrap up the group stage against Algeria on July 19

Indian authorities have arrested a Nigerian woman in her rented apartment in Kondhwa, Pune, for staying in the country after the expiration of her visa.

The woman was arrested by the Foreigners Registration Office of Pune City Police following a tip-off from her neighbourhood.

According to The Indian Express, the owner and the real estate agent of the property were questioned, and an offence was registered against them by the police for failing to submit the information about her illegal stay in India.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Rajkumar Shinde, said the Nigerian’s visa expired and she bargained with the duo to live in the apartment without proper documentation.

Gideon Oladokun, popularly known as Spora, a renowned Nollywood actor, director, and producer, marks a significant milestone today, June 6th, 2025, as he celebrates his 41st birthday. Born in 1984 at Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Spora is a native of Okuku in Osun State.

Spora’s educational background includes God’s Will College Onipan, Ondo State, and Odo-Otin Grammar School Okuku, Osun State, where he completed his primary and secondary education, respectively. He later obtained a Higher National Diploma (HND) at Ire Polytechnic, Iree, Osun State.

Apart from his illustrious acting career, Spora is a successful entrepreneur. He is the proprietor of Redeemer Liveth School, CEO of Redeemer Liveth Properties, and founder of Spora Film Academy, which aims to nurture emerging talent in the film industry. He also owns Yorubalasa TV, a popular Nollywood YouTube channel.

Some of Spora’s notable works include “Omo Abule,” “Igbo Ebora,” “Oba Meji,” “Adanwo Ife” “Money Ritual,” “Fake Pastor,” “Spirit of Halkwa,” and “Oba Òdìkejì.” As he celebrates his birthday, Spora expressed gratitude to God for his journey so far, taking to his social media handles to share his appreciation.

As Spora continues to thrive in the entertainment industry, his fans and well-wishers join him in celebrating this special day, wishing him many more years of success, good health, and happiness.

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His Royal Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi Esuwoye II, the revered monarch of Offa, Kwara State, Nigeria, has issued a stirring call to the wealthy indigenes of Offa to utilize their resources in assisting the less privileged members of the community. This passionate appeal was made during the Eid-el-Kabir (Ileya) Festival celebrations at the Yidi gathering in Offa.

In his address, the monarch emphasized the importance of giving and helping others, highlighting that collective growth and development can only be achieved when the less fortunate are lifted up. He urged the affluent indigenes to redirect their focus from accumulating wealth in banks to supporting those in need, thereby fostering a sense of community and social responsibility.

The monarch’s words resonated with the audience, emphasizing that “we rise by lifting others.” This message serves as a reminder of the significance of philanthropy and community service in promoting the well-being of society.

The Chief Imam of Offa land also played a pivotal role in the occasion, delivering a thought-provoking lecture and extending warm wishes to all Muslims in attendance. His presence underscored the importance of spiritual guidance and leadership during the Ileya celebrations.

The Olofa’s call to action is expected to inspire a wave of kindness and generosity among the Offa indigenes, contributing to a more harmonious and supportive community. By heeding the monarch’s words, the community can work together towards creating a brighter future for all its members.

Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s “bromance” appears to have officially come to an end and both men are now slinging mud at each other.

In new tweets, Elon Musk has claimed that the reason the US administration has not released the Epstein Files in full is because President Donald Trump is mentioned in them.

“@realDonaldTrump is in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public,” he said in a post on Thursday night, June 5, on X.

He signed off his tweet with “Have a nice day, DJT!”

That is a reference to the Justice Department records concerning the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who allegedly procured underage girls for s£x for a string of famous names.

The Tesla and SpaceX chief was a former close advisor of Trump and headed the newly-created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) before his departure last week.

DOGE, a controversial department, was tasked with shrinking the government and saw thousands of federal jobs axed.

Since his departure, he has taken a swipe at Trump’s tax-cut and spending bill, calling it a “disgusting abomination.”

In a post on Truth Social on Thursday evening, Trump said he had asked Musk to leave the administration, saying he was “wearing thin” and accusing him of going “CRAZY!”

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has called on Nigerian universities to examine how the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike,
secured a position in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet despite being a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party.

Speaking at the 2025 Distinguished Personality Lecture held at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, on Thursday, the monarch expressed his astonishment over Wike’s political trajectory, describing his ministerial appointment under an All Progressives Congress-led government as a “mystery.”

“For your career, I will particularly say that I give a very strong honour to the father of the nation, President Bola Tinubu,” the Ooni said while addressing Wike, who served as the keynote speaker at the event.

“You belong to a different political party and yet are able to work together. You are part of this government. It is still a mystery. I don’t even know how it happened.

“For me, it is something that universities should be studying and I mean it. It’s very important.

“Hate him or like him, what will be, will be. He (Wike) is a politician to be studied. I don’t know how he’s been actively relevant for 20 years,” Ooni said.

The traditional ruler acknowledged that while Wike may have critics, he is widely respected for his boldness and resilience.

PUNCH Online had earlier reported that Wike would deliver the 2025 Distinguished Personality Lecture at OAU.

The event, held at the university’s Oduduwa Hall, featured Wike speaking on the theme, “Nigeria of Our Dreams.”

According to a statement from Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, the invitation was officially extended to Wike in a letter dated April 14, 2025, signed by the university’s Registrar and Secretary to Council, Mr. K. A. Bakare.