News
US Introduces New Asylum Rule, Nigerians Affected.
The United States has introduced a new rule allowing asylum applications to be referred to immigration judges without applicants first undergoing an interview, in a move aimed at reducing the country’s growing asylum backlog.
The change was announced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) following a statement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Under the existing system, USCIS handles “affirmative” asylum applications filed by individuals who are not in removal proceedings, while Department of Justice (DOJ) immigration judges adjudicate “defensive” asylum claims involving those already in removal proceedings
Depending on an applicant’s immigration status, USCIS may either decide an asylum application or refer it to an immigration judge. In cases referred to a judge, the application can undergo another review, which DHS says can effectively give an applicant a second opportunity to seek asylum.
The new interim final rule permits USCIS to refer asylum applications directly to immigration judges without first interviewing the applicant.
According to DHS, the change is expected to reduce the overall time required for asylum officers and immigration judges to process cases, while helping USCIS tackle the backlog.
USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said the asylum system had been used by some applicants for purposes other than seeking protection.
“For far too long the asylum system has been exploited for purposes of delay and work authorization, not legitimate claims of protection,” said USCIS Director Joseph Edlow. “America’s asylum system exists to protect individuals who genuinely fear persecution and this rule will help ensure that resources are directed to the timely adjudication of those claims instead of to those seeking to use the system as a loophole.”
DHS General Counsel James Percival said delays in immigration proceedings had also created difficulties for enforcement efforts.
“One of the greatest barriers to effective immigration enforcement is intentional delay by illegal aliens and the open borders attorneys who represent them,” said DHS General Counsel James Percival.
“My office works every day with the immigration components of DHS to improve efficiency and fulfill the President’s mandate. The rule would do just that.”
The new rule takes effect immediately. USCIS will accept public comments on the interim rule before issuing a final version that responds to the feedback received.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and dependable defender Michelle Alozie have arrived at the Super Falcons’ camp in Ijebu Ode ahead of their 2028 Olympic Games qualifying fixture against Comoros.
Also joining the team are midfielder Jennifer Echegini and forward Folashade Ijamilusi, bringing the number of players in camp to 22.
Only four players—Comfort Erhabor, Gift Monday, Joy Omewa and Uchenna Kanu—are still expected to join the squad.
The Super Falcons will continue their preparations with another training session at the Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu Ode, tonight.
Meanwhile, the Comoros senior women’s national team arrived in Ijebu Ode on Monday and held their first training session on Tuesday night as they intensify preparations for the first leg.
Friday’s encounter, which was originally scheduled to take place in Comoros, will now be played at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne-Remo, with kick-off set for 6pm.
The reverse fixture will hold at the same venue next week Tuesday.
Players In Camp
Goalkeepers: Christiana Uzoma, Chiamaka Nnadozie
Defenders: Farida Abdulwahab; Sandra John; Tumininu Adeshina; Valentina Uroko; Glory Edet; Shukurat Oladipo; Glory Ogbonna
Midfielders: Christy Ucheibe; Toni Payne; Favour Omenazu; Joy Igbokwe; Jennifer Echegini; Fatimoh Solaty, Suliat Abideen
Forwards: Rasheedat Ajibade; Shakirat Moshood; Blessing Nkor; Sandra John, Folashade Ijamilusi; Janet Akekoromowei
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Wednesday said God used a former military Head of State, Sani Abacha, to create the state.
Governor Oyebanji said without Abacha, Ekiti State would not have been created.
Ekiti State was created on October 1, 1996, out of the old Ondo State, during Abacha’s military regime.
The governor said Ekiti State owes a debt of gratitude to the former military ruler.
Speaking during the ‘Ekiti at 30 Future Summit’ in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, Oyebanji said people of the state have distinguished themselves in various sectors of the economy.
He said: “In the old Western region and later Ondo State, Ekiti men and women distinguished themselves in education, public administration, commerce, agriculture, culture, and national service.
“Through the act of persistent advocacy, leaders made a compelling case for the creation of the state, that way the aspiration of our people would be more effectively pursued.
“We therefore owe an eternal debt of gratitude to the founding fathers of Ekiti State, to the traditional rulers, community leaders, professionals, academics, political actors, and women organisations whose sacrifices made the creation possible.
“Some people will not like to hear my next statement but that is the truth, we owe a debt of gratitude to Gen. Sani Abacha who was the Head of State when the state was created.
“Without that man, Abacha, we will not be here. Kabiyesi will tell you what they contended with but God used Abacha and we are grateful.”
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has expressed condolences to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) over the aircraft crash in Ondo State that claimed the lives of several NAF personnel and others.
The NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), conveyed the agency’s sympathies in a letter of condolence addressed to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke.
In a statement made available to thecolumn.ng by the
Director, Media and Advocacy Femi Babafemi
in Abuja on Wednesday (today) Marwa extended the agency’s condolences to the NAF leadership, officers and personnel, as well as the families of those who lost their lives in the crash.
He described the incident as devastating, saying the news was received with profound grief.
The NDLEA boss commended the Nigerian Air Force for what he described as its consistent patriotism, gallantry and commitment to the defence and security of the country.
According to him, the loss of personnel who dedicated their lives to national service was a painful blow to the Air Force, the country and the wider national security community.
“In this moment of deep sorrow, our thoughts and prayers are with the grieving families of the fallen heroes, as well as the entire NAF family,” Marwa said.
He prayed that God would comfort the bereaved families, strengthen the Nigerian Air Force and grant the deceased eternal rest.
Marwa also assured the Air Force of the solidarity and support of the officers, men and women of the NDLEA during the period of mourning.
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