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Canada stops visa program, hints at new replacement in 2026
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is pausing some of its business immigration visa programs to pave the way for a new pilot for immigrant entrepreneurs.
On December 19, the department announced it will no longer accept applications for the optional work permit available to Start-Up Visa (SUV) applicants, except for those already in Canada applying to extend their current SUV work permit.
Effective December 31 at 11:59 pm, IRCC will also stop accepting new SUV applications. An exception applies to applicants who have already received a valid commitment from a designated organization in 2025 but haven’t yet applied. These applicants must submit their SUV applications by June 30, 2026.
IRCC will also continue the pause on applications through the Self-Employed Persons Program, which has been on hold since April 30, 2024.
The federal government said these changes are part of the “transition to a new, targeted pilot program for immigrant entrepreneurs.” Details about the new pilot are expected in 2026.
Canada’s SUV program faced criticism in 2025 over long processing times. A government tool launched earlier this year showed entrepreneurs could face a ten-year wait to become permanent residents through the SUV program.
The government noted that the measures announced are partly aimed at “help[ing] address the large inventory of applications for Canada’s business programs” and supporting the country’s Talent Attraction Strategy, as outlined in the latest Immigration Levels Plan.
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Christmas: Gov Adeleke urges Christians to spread God’s love
The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has urged Christians in the state to continue spreading God’s love during the Christmas season.
The governor said the birth of Jesus Christ symbolises the expression of God’s love to humanity and should inspire compassion and unity among residents.
This was contained in a Christmas message issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.
Governor Adeleke noted that the festive season serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude to God and appreciation for life and shared blessings.
“This season calls us to reflect on the blessings we have received and to share kindness with those around us,” the statement read.
He described Christmas as a period when families gather, communities rejoice, and hope is rekindled and urged residents to embrace the spirit of giving and togetherness.
Reflecting on the past year, the governor acknowledged both challenges and achievements recorded in the state.
“In the past year, we have faced challenges and celebrated victories together. Through it all, the resilience and faith of the people of Osun have continued to inspire me,” he said.
Governor Adeleke also expressed gratitude to God and the people of the state for their support and prayers.
“I thank God for the gift of life and for the privilege of leading this great state. Collective efforts were laying the foundation for prosperity and peace,” he disclosed.
The governor urged residents to remember the less privileged during the celebration by extending acts of generosity.
“As we rejoice this season, let us not forget the less privileged among us. We should encourage love and support for our neighbors and strangers alike,” be concluded.
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BREAKING : Malami Cries Out To Nigerians After Being Denied Bail
Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, has alleged that the EFCC has refused to accept the ruling of the court which granted him bail.
Malami, who spoke through his media aide, said the commission chased away the bailiff and insisted on his continued detention, citing a high court order that expires today.
Malami, in his statement, also called on the international community and Nigerians of conscience to speak out against the actions of the EFCC, saying that no agency is above the law.
About 30 properties worth N212.8Billion linked to ex-Nigerian Attorney General Malami amongst other heavy 16-count fraud case
News
Borno mosque attack: Tinubu orders intensified security operations – Shettima
Vice-President, Kashim Shettima has said President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate intensification of security operations in Borno State following a terrorist attack on a mosque in Maiduguri.
Shettima disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, noting that additional tactical teams have been deployed to track down and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
Ekwutos reports that suspected terrorists had on Wednesday evening attacked the Al-Adum Mosque at Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, during prayers, killing five people and injuring several others.
Condemning the attack, the Vice-President described it as “a despicable assault on innocent citizens and the peace of the nation.”
He said the Federal Government was working closely with Borno State authorities and local security agencies to protect vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure across the North East and other parts of the country.
“The Federal Government will not tolerate any attempt to undermine the peace and security of our nation,” Shettima said, adding that security agencies were working round the clock to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
The Vice-President expressed sympathy with the Borno State Government, residents, and families of the victims, assuring them that those responsible would face the full weight of the law.
Shettima reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to national security, stressing that the government would continue to provide security agencies with the necessary support and resources to combat terrorism in all its forms.
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