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UK Considers Lowering Work Visa Salary Thresholds for Nigerians Seeking Skilled Jobs

Proposed MAC reforms may open UK job market to more Nigerian graduates and professionals in healthcare, IT, and construction

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5 days ago

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Proposed MAC reforms may open UK job market to more Nigerian graduates and professionals in healthcare, IT, and construction

The United Kingdom is considering changes to its work visa requirements that could make it easier for skilled Nigerians to gain employment in the UK, following recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) announced on Wednesday. The proposals target key sectors such as healthcare, engineering, information technology, education and construction—areas where Nigerian professionals have a strong presence.

According to the MAC, one of the major reforms under consideration is a reduction in the salary thresholds required for sponsorship under the UK’s Skilled Worker visa route. The committee has advised that occupation-specific salary requirements be set at the 25th percentile of earnings for each role, rather than the current median wage benchmark. If adopted by the UK government, this would lower barriers for both employers and applicants, allowing more Nigerians with in-demand skills to qualify for sponsorship.

Nigerians form one of the largest groups of skilled migrants and international students in the UK. Many have faced challenges securing job offers due to high minimum salary requirements. The proposed reforms also include a lower salary threshold for ‘new entrants’ such as recent graduates and younger professionals—changes which could especially benefit early-career Nigerians looking to start their careers abroad.

While no final decision has been announced yet by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s administration, career experts are urging interested Nigerians to start preparing now. Prospective applicants are advised to update their professional certifications, improve English language qualifications where necessary, research UK employers licensed to sponsor foreign workers, and monitor official immigration channels for updates.

If implemented, these changes could significantly widen access to job opportunities for thousands of skilled Nigerians. Experts say this will not only help address labour shortages in critical sectors in the UK but also provide new pathways for Nigerians hoping to build long-term careers abroad. For now, stakeholders are waiting on official government action while preparations continue among prospective applicants.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/uk-considers-easing-work-visa-rules-for-nigerians-heres-how-the-proposed-changes-could-benefit-you-2026061208531582270

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Katsina Shuts POS Centres, Bans Jerrycan Fuel Sales and Restricts Motorcycles in Two LGAs Amid Banditry Surge

Governor Radda issues executive order after emergency meeting with security agencies; residents limited to direct vehicle fuel purchases

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June 17, 2026

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Governor Radda issues executive order after emergency meeting with security agencies; residents limited to direct vehicle fuel purchases

The Katsina State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all Point of Sale (POS) centres and commercial phone-charging businesses in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas, imposed a state-wide ban on the sale and transport of petrol in jerrycans, and restricted motorcycle movement in the two affected LGAs. The measures, announced on Monday via an executive order signed by Governor Dikko Umar Radda (APC), follow an emergency security meeting with law enforcement agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders.

According to the new directive, all POS outlets and phone-charging businesses in Matazu and Musawa must cease operations immediately. In addition, motorcycles are now prohibited from operating within both LGAs. Across Katsina’s 34 local government areas, residents are banned from purchasing or transporting petrol in jerrycans, though buying fuel directly into vehicle tanks at filling stations remains permitted.

Government said these steps were necessary to tackle rising banditry and criminal activities that have continued to threaten communities across the North-West state. Intelligence reports indicate that informal financial services such as POS have been exploited by criminal groups for funding, while petrol smuggled in jerrycans is frequently used to fuel motorcycles and generators operated by armed men hiding in forests. The restriction on motorcycles targets the mobility advantage enjoyed by bandits who often use them to evade security patrols across rural areas.

“These measures are aimed at disrupting the support networks of criminal elements by cutting off their access to funds, fuel supplies and easy movement,” Governor Radda said in a statement accompanying the order. Security officials have long argued that portable fuel sales enable bandits to sustain attacks despite ongoing military operations. The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment on the new restrictions.

Katsina has faced persistent insecurity, including attacks on villages, kidnappings for ransom and cattle rustling. Many residents have abandoned farms and businesses due to fear of violence. Authorities say this latest move was informed by intelligence assessments and consultations with local leaders. The government maintains that while these restrictions may inconvenience some law-abiding residents—especially those in rural communities with limited banking access—they are essential for restoring peace.

Security agencies are expected to step up enforcement of the order in coming days, with surveillance intensified around filling stations and border communities. The state government says it will review the effectiveness of these measures regularly as part of broader efforts to secure lives and property across Katsina.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/katsina-shuts-pos-bans-jerrycan-fuel-motorcycles-insecurity-2026061717504455033

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Lagos Scientists Unveil Why Mosquitoes Target Some Nigerians More Than Others

Experts link higher mosquito bites to body chemistry, carbon dioxide emission and alcohol intake; urge use of nets and repellents

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21 minutes ago

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June 17, 2026

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Experts link higher mosquito bites to body chemistry, carbon dioxide emission and alcohol intake; urge use of nets and repellents

Researchers in Lagos have explained the scientific reasons why some Nigerians are bitten by mosquitoes more frequently than others, highlighting the role of body chemistry, carbon dioxide output and lifestyle choices. The findings were released on Tuesday following a series of laboratory studies conducted in collaboration with international partners.

According to the scientists, mosquitoes are not randomly attracted to people. The lead researcher explained that female mosquitoes are drawn first to carbon dioxide exhaled by humans, which they can sense from several metres away. As they approach, they rely on body odour and skin heat to select specific targets. “Our studies show that individuals who produce more sebum—a natural oil on the skin—emit compounds that are especially attractive to mosquitoes,” the scientist said during a briefing in Ikeja.

The research further dispelled popular beliefs about blood type or skin colour influencing mosquito preference. The team stated that there is no scientific evidence supporting claims that blood group affects mosquito attraction, noting previous studies were too small for meaningful conclusions. However, they found that pregnant women in their second trimester face a higher risk due to increased body temperature and metabolic changes.

Alcohol consumption was also identified as a factor that increases mosquito bites. In one study involving 465 volunteers, those who consumed beer within the previous day were over 30 percent more likely to be bitten. Experts attributed this to higher body heat and altered skin odour after drinking alcohol.

The researchers advised Nigerians to use loose-fitting clothing that covers the skin, apply insect repellent, and sleep under treated mosquito nets—especially during rainy season when malaria risk is highest. They also recommended minimising alcohol intake before outdoor activities in mosquito-prone areas. “Prevention remains key because most risk factors are tied to natural body processes,” the scientist added.

Public health officials say these findings reinforce ongoing malaria prevention campaigns across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, urging residents to prioritise protective measures regardless of perceived personal immunity.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/why-mosquitoes-bite-some-people-more-than-others-2026061717360585875

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First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Disburses ₦100m Grant to 2,000 Benue Women, Commissions ICT Centre

Governor Alia hails Renewed Hope Initiative as newly built roads and digital centre target economic growth in North-Central state

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26 minutes ago

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June 17, 2026

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Governor Alia hails Renewed Hope Initiative as newly built roads and digital centre target economic growth in North-Central state

First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu on Tuesday empowered 2,000 women petty traders in Benue State with a ₦100 million economic grant and commissioned a new ICT centre in Vandeikya Local Government Area. The interventions, carried out under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), are aimed at promoting financial inclusion and digital skills for women and youths across the state.

The event, held during the First Lady’s visit to Benue, saw each beneficiary receive ₦50,000 to support their businesses and improve their livelihoods. In addition to the grant distribution, Mrs Tinubu unveiled the Lucy Zayol Aluor Community ICT Centre in Ihugh, a facility established through collaboration between RHI and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The centre is expected to provide training in digital literacy and technology for local residents.

Addressing attendees at the commissioning, Senator Tinubu said the programme was designed to help women expand their businesses and contribute more effectively to their families and communities. “Empowering women is key to national development. This initiative will not only boost economic activities but also ensure sustainable growth among beneficiaries,” she stated during her speech.

Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr Hyacinth Alia of the All Progressives Congress (APC), commended the First Lady for making Benue one of the selected states for the Renewed Hope Initiative’s empowerment efforts. He expressed optimism that both the grant and new ICT centre would positively impact women entrepreneurs and young people seeking opportunities in today’s economy.

As part of her visit, Mrs Tinubu also participated in the official commissioning of 10 newly completed intra-city roads in Makurdi, covering approximately 11.5 kilometres. The roads—including Shire Bakut Road dual carriageway and Abu Ken Shulua Road—were constructed under Phase I of Benue’s Urban Renewal Programme. In recognition of her contributions, Ishayaba Street was renamed after Senator Tinubu.

The Renewed Hope Initiative has rolled out similar empowerment schemes across multiple states, focusing on grants, educational support and vocational training for women, youths and vulnerable groups nationwide. The Benue programme forms part of a broader campaign to improve livelihoods, reduce poverty and expand access to economic opportunities through targeted support.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/remi-tinubu-benue-women-grant-ict-centre-2026061717241397087

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