Olaronke Ogundana

UNVEILING INTERESTING HISTORICAL TOURIST SITES IN NIGERIA The first historical tourist attraction that a lot of people don’t know about is the Ojukwu Bunker. OJUKWU BUNKER When we talk about tourism in Nigeria as a country, we won’t forget to talk about the OJUKWU BUNKER WAR MUSEUM CENTER located in Umuahia, the capital city of Abia state, Nigeria. Nigeria is a country full of past histories which has been preserved up till date and has gradually turned into a source of tourism to tourists who intend to study, research, and enjoy the past histories of Nigeria. History of Ojukwu Bunker War Museum Nigeria is made up of three tribes which are the Igbos, Yorubas, and the Hausas. Now, let me be quick, the Igbos really wanted to be a sovereign nation under the umbrella name BIAFRA, they wanted to separate from Nigeria so badly that it caused a lot of controversies between them and the Nigerian government. The Nigerian government was never in support of them leaving the country and becoming a nation of their own. This led to what is called the Nigerian Civil War. The Nigerian government decided to fight the Igbos (Biafrans) who wanted freedom to make their own sovereign nation. This escalated, and a man from the Igbos named OJUKWU decided to champion this war by being the leaders of the Igbos (Biafrans) during this civil war. This bunker is like a tunnel and very narrow to get into. It was a very beautiful sight to behold, inside this underground bunker there was an old big radio transmitter where Ojukwu transmitted a lot of information to Biafrans from the bunker. This bunker also had an escape route where they could escape from when there was a tip off or danger in the bunker. Osun-Osogbo Sacred Groves The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Groves are a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the outskirts of Osogbo in Osun State. These sacred groves are dedicated to the Yoruba goddess Osun and contain shrines, sculptures, and artworks depicting Yoruba cosmology and traditions. They are one of the last remaining examples of the once widespread Yoruba settlement design FELA SHRINE Thinking about taking your nightlife escapades to the next level? Then think Fela Shrine a.k.a The New Afrika Shrine. From the genre of music to the inspirational story-telling lyrics, not forgetting the sacrosanct palm-wine, get ready to get a political education, a lesson in?shakin-it? and a contact high! The New Afrika Shrine, an open-air entertainment Centre located in Ikeja, Lagos State. It serves as the host location of the annual Felabration music festival. Currently managed by Femi Kuti and Yeni Anikulapo-Kuti, it is the replacement of the old Afrika Shrine created in 1970 by Fela Kuti until it was burnt down in 1977. The New Afrika Shrine showcases photo galleries of Fela and musical performances by Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti, thus making it a tourist attraction. OBUDU CATTLE RANCH We will be taking a tour of the majestic Obudu mountains and enjoy nature in all of its beauty. Obudu is one of the finest and most magnificent tourist destinations in Nigeria and is located in the highlands of Cross River State. You can expect: Ground Transportation from Enugu to Obudu and back Accommodation All Meals (Breakfast /Lunch and Dinner) Insurance Cameroon Border Viewpoint. Holy Mountain Cable ride Canopy Walkway Nela Waterfalls Security Facility tour Games and other recreational activities. KAJURU CASTLE IN KANO The Kajuru Castle isn’t ancient. It isn’t even African in the sense that it was built by an eccentric and visionary German businessman by the name Burg Heinrichswalde in Kaduna. It was built in a European and German fashion. It has a baronial hall, complete with suits of armor. The Kajuru Castle has dungeon like bedrooms and towers with crenulated walls. There are even crocodiles in the pits guiding the castle. The castle overlooks a vast, peaceful and picturesque savanna. It is a good place to have families and small private parties. The atmosphere is quite relaxing and conducive. The castle is fully equipped for luxury self-service. There is a swimming pool, and the kitchen come with modern kitchen items as well. SUKUR CULTURAL LANDSCAPE The Sukur Cultural Landscape in Adamawa State is another UNESCO World Heritage site. It is an ancient settlement with a long history of iron work and strong political institutions dating back to the 16th century. The site contains above-ground and below-ground structures, shrines, and ceramics EMIR OF KANO PALACE The Emir of Kano Palace in Kano is regarded as one of the most important historical places in Nigeria. It is the palace of the Emir (king) of the Hausa people, whose culture has existed in the region for over 1,000 years. The vibrant Durbar festival, featuring the Emir’s entourage and bejeweled horsemen, is a major attraction. NATIONAL WAR MUSEUM, UMUAHIA The National War Museum in Umuahia, Abia State, preserves relics and artifacts from various wars in Nigeria’s history, including the Nigerian Civil War in the 1960s. It serves as a reminder of the country’s recent turbulent past. SLAVE HISTORY MUSEUM, CALABAR The Slave History Museum in Calabar is a significant site for learning about the area’s history as a major slave port during the transatlantic slave trade. The museum houses artifacts from the slave era, including remnants of ships and their cargo. So, in summary, the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Groves, Sukur Cultural Landscape, Emir of Kano Palace, National War Museum, and Slave History Museum are some of the most popular historical sites in Nigeria that attract tourists interested in the country’s rich cultural heritage and past.          

The Paris 2024 Olympics begins on Wednesday, July 26, 2024.In preparation for this great event, the Paris regional transport operator has launched a special transport pass for 2024 Olympics visitors to reduce transport costs for people attending the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The “Paris 2024” pass allows unlimited travel to all Olympic and Paralympic venues in the city. It costs 16 euros for a day’s travel and 70euro for a week, with an additional one-time charge of 2 euro. The pass covers travel to and from the airport which is a bonus. To get the pass, you need to create an account on the ile-de-france-mobilites website.  It can be delivered to 50 countries within 10 days. Also, note that the pass is currently available as a physical card and will be available as an app in June Six substantial things to know about the Paris Olympics 2024 Here is the list of six important things to know about the Paris Olympic 2024 Amazing venues: They are going to be making use of some unique venues for sports. Beach Volleyball game will be taking place underneath the Eiffel Tower. Equestrian and pentathlon events will be held at Versailles. Swimming in Seine: The Open water swimming event are going to be in the seine river, which historically has not been clean, but the organizers confirm they have no plan B it’s taking place there. Farthest Olympic event: The Paris Olympics will be hosting an event far away from the host city the first in the history of Olympics. Surfing in Tahiti will take place 10,000miles away from Paris. New sports added to the list: Some new sports are coming to the Olympics this year, called breakdancing and sport climbing. Breakdancing will only be featured this year in Paris. New mascot: The Olympics mascot a French traditional three-pointed hat that symbolizes the liberty of France. Unique Opening Ceremony: They are packing everyone into the Arena this year. The French are doing something unique this year. All athletes will be floated down the seine river in boats.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Hurry now and let’s package your trip to Paris!

I have some exciting news for all Emirates Airlines lovers. Your Favorite Airline is resuming operations in Nigeria on October 1st, 2024, after nearly 2years of suspending its operations in Nigeria. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stopped issuing visas to Nigerians in 2022 after Emirates suspended flights between the nations due to an inability to repatriate funds from Nigeria. Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer said, “We are excited to resume our services to Nigeria. We thank the Nigerian government for their partnership and support in re-establishing this route, and we look forward to welcoming passengers back onboard. The Lagos-Dubai service has traditionally been popular with customers in Nigeria, and we hope to reconnect leisure and business travelers to Dubai and onwards to our network of over 140 destinations. Emirates SkyCargo will further bolster the trade relationship by offering more than 300 tones of belly hold cargo capacity in and out of Lagos every week. Emirates SkyCargo will support Nigerian businesses by exporting their goods via its hub in Dubai into key markets such as the UAE, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Bahrain, with key commodities like Kola Nuts, food and drink, and urgent courier material, the airline said. Book your Emirates Flight Tickets now! What are you waiting for? Rush now and book your Emirates flight Tickets on our website: https://travels.chevroncemcs.com Fly with us today!  

Ohio state university popularly known as Ohio State or OSU is a great choice for international students, established in 1870, located in the urban setting of the medium-sized city of Columbus. The university office of international Affairs is pleased to make available partial tuition grants each semester to international students at the Ohio state university. These grants are intended to help international students who are within one semester of graduation and have demonstrated financial need to complete their degrees. There is a limit of one grant award per degree level. Therefore, applicant is recommended not to apply within the 1st academic year unless there is an emergency. All Applicant will be notified through email on whatever the committee decides. The funds are limited and may not cover the applicant full tuition and other fees. Requirements You must be a non-immigrant international student (F-1 OR J-1) currently enrolled in a degree – granting program and be within 1 semester of graduation. You must demonstrate financial need to complete your current degree and have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 (for undergraduate) or 3.0 (for graduate). You must also have never received an OIA grant before at your current degree level. For more information on how to apply for this Grant, kindly visit CEMCS Travels and Tourism or click the link below. Ohio State University 2024 International Student Grant.

The government of Ireland has perfected plans to entice Nigerians and other foreign workers with work permits. The Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retails announces the largest ever expansion of our employment permits system, with 43 additional occupations becoming eligible for employment permits. From engineers, mechanics and electricians to meteorologist, butcher and bakers, these changes cross many sectors and will be of huge benefit to Irish businesses and society. According to the Citizens Information Board, the scheme under the name ‘Critical Skills Employment Permit’ applies to countries outside the European Economic Area including the EU, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, the United Kingdom, or Switzerland. This skilled visa sponsorship allows applicants to come with their dependents and are also Eligible to become a permanent residence after some years. On the 20th of December 2023, the Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retails announced another significant change to Ireland’s employment permits system. These changes include an increase in salary thresholds for permit holders and an additional 43 occupations becoming eligible for employment permits. From 17th January 2024, the minimum salary for new General Employment Permits (GEP) will increase from €30,000 to €34,000. Employers seeking to hire GEP roles are advised should advertise this salary rate as Labour Market Needs Tests that do not reflect the appropriate salary will be rejected. The new standard Critical Skills Employment Permit minimum salary requirement has also increased to from €34,000 to €38,000. Health care assistants and home carers salary requirement will increase from €27,000 to €30,000 and the minimum salary for meat processors and horticultural workers will increase from €22,000 to €30,000. Additionally, a number of occupations have now become eligible for employment permits as of 20th December 2023. Occupations added to the Critical Skills Occupations List include: Professional Forester Resource modelling, earth observation and data analyst Meteorologist Operational Forecaster Chemical Engineer Project Engineer BIM Manager Optometrist (Ophthalmic Optician) Commercial Manager BIM Coordinator/Technician Estimator Occupations eligible for a General Employment Permit: Residential Day and Domiciliary Case Managers – in Disability Services Play Therapist – in Disability Services Genetic Counsellor Social Care Worker Family Support Workers – in Disability Services Project Offices, Disability Support Worker (social, community, public and charity) Guide Dog Mobility Instructor for the Visually Impaired Autism Assistance Dog Instructor Pig Managers Smiths and forge workers Moulders, core makers and die casters Metal plate workers and riveters Car mechanic, Motor mechanic, Auto electrician, Motor vehicle technician HGV mechanic Vehicle body builders and repairers/Body shop panel beaters Electrician, electrical contractor, electrical engineer, Vehicle paint technician Skilled metal, electrical and electronic trades supervisors Upholstery and furniture operatives Butchers/(de)boner Baker Furniture makers and other craft woodworkers Senior Care Workers – in Disability Services Textile Process Operatives Wood Machine Operatives Saw Doctor/Wood Machine Mechanic Armature Rewinder Pig Farm Assistants Speciality Forestry Harvesting Technician Further occupations which had previously been made eligible for General Employment Permits have had their quotas extended as follows: 1,000 GEPs for meat processing operatives 350 GEPs for butcher/debones. 350 GEPs for dairy farm assistants 1,000 GEPs have been provided for horticultural workers to support the sector until the introduction of the Seasonal Employment Permit. For more enquiries about this opportunuty visit Cemcs travels desk today…………..

Where are the lovers of United Arab Emirates? I have come with the most exciting news of the week. It’s time to dust off your passport because the United Arab Emirates has lifted the ban placed on Nigerians Traveller. Starting 4th march, 2024, Nigerians can now travel to UAE for either business, work or visit. This comes after the president of Nigeria President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had a meeting with the president of the UAE in Abu Dhabi. According to a statement by Ajuri Nghelali, special adviser on media and publicity, the president has secured a landmark deal with the UAE. So, Nigerians can now visit Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other cities in UAE. Although a new measure has been put in place to ensure a seamless and efficient visa application experience. The UAE has introduced an enhanced document verification process. The UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Saleem Saeed Al-Shamsi highlighted the importance of this updated procedure. He said, “We are committed to facilitating straightforward and expedited visa applications for Nigerians. Starting from March 4, 2024, all Nigerian applicants for UAE visas are required to first obtain a document verification number. This essential step according to the UAE is to be completed by visiting the dedicated online Document Verification Hub platform (https/documentverificationhub.com). The introduction of the Document Verification Number is designed to enhance the integrity of our application process and ensure prompt processing for all applicants. Consequently, Etihad and Emirates Airlines will resume flight operations in Nigeria immediately. Explaining the recent development, the President’s spokesman noted that the immediate restoration of flight activity through Emirates and Etihad Airlines and between the two countries does not involve any immediate payment by the Nigerian government. Reacting, an official of the aviation think-tank, Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative, Olumide Ohunayo, said, “Congratulations that the President was able to get the visa ban lifted, and business can return fully among the two countries while we make efforts to repatriate airline funds. It is good to see that Emirates and Etihad are returning, I just hope Nigerian airlines will have the same slots and frequencies in Dubai and not outside Dubai airports, under the principle of reciprocity. Are you excited about this? Rush now and visit CEMCS Travels for more information. website: https://travels.chevroncemcs.com

Canada, also known as the land of opportunities has placed restrictions on international students. For 2024, a single applicant will need to show they have $20,635, representing 75% of LICO, in addition to their first year of tuition and travel costs. This change will apply to new study permit applications. The waiver on the 20-hours -per week limit on the number of hours international students is allowed to work will be extended to 30hours per week. Ottawa, BC, Nova scotia have decided to cap the number of international students they admit per year. A temporary 2years cap on new international students permit. The cap is expected to result in approximately 364,000 approved study permits, a decrease of 35percent. In the spirit of fairness, they are allocating the cap space by province, based on population such as that some provinces like Ontario, BC, Nova scotia will see more reductions. Open work permit will only be available to spouses of international students in master’s and doctoral programs. A Canadian province (British Columbia) has banned tertiary institutions from admitting Nigerians and international students for the next 2 years. Federal immigration minister, Marc Miller announced recently in a statement. According to Miller, the measure aims to decrease new student visa issuance by 35percent for the current year as the province addresses “exploitative practices” within the system. Private colleges especially in Columbia will no longer be allowed to admit any international students for any degree requiring license. Private colleges especially in British Columbia will no longer have a post graduate work permit after graduation. All students need an Attestation letter to apply for a study permit. As of January 22,2024, most students must include an attestation letter from the province or Territory where they plan to study with their study permit application. If application is put in without an attestation letter, such application will be denied unless the applicant is a minor in primary or secondary school up to grade 12, or a student in masters, PhD or other post graduate program and lastly a student applying to extend his /her study permit. Province like Ontario and British Columbia Won’t be taking plenty international students in 2024, However,Canada plans to welcome 485,000 permanent residences in 2024.  

THE CANADIAN ENTREPRENEUR ROUTES ALSO KNOWN AS THE STARTUP VISA PROGRAM The startup visa was created and opened to all qualified entrepreneurs who wish to start a new business or develop an existing one in Canada. Applicants who are accepted will receive unconditional irrevocable Permanent Residence status in Canada based on their intentions to establish a business in Canada. The program targets immigrant’s entrepreneur with skills and potential to build, bring fresh ideas and also build companies in Canada while opening up more job’s positions. It is also a fast track to permanent residency for international entrepreneurs who can secure funding with investors that have been designated to do so. This is to build businesses that are innovative that can create jobs for Canadians and that can compete on a global scale. 2. CANADA EXPRESS ENTRY PROGRAM The Canada Express Entry Program is an online Canada immigration system launched in January 2015 by the Government of Canada for managing the Canada PR Visa applications of all economic category immigrants. Skilled individuals who want to move to Canada for work prospects and a better lifestyle are termed, economic immigrants. A highly comprehensive program, Express Entry plays a vital role in managing the immigrant inflow to Canada judging through certain diverse parameters. 3. PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAM (P N P) This is open to foreign nationals with special skills, good academic qualifications, licenses when necessary to back up their qualifications, professional body examinations and membership. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a Canadian immigration program for people who want to reside in a province or territory as permanent residents. Each province or territory in Canada has a different provincial nominee program that is designed to meet the needs and demands of the local labor market. All the provinces or territories of Canada have their PNP with different immigration streams. The following are the major Canada PNP programs: Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP): Alberta’s provincial nomination program offers nominations to foreign applicants in 3 streams. Alberta Opportunity Stream Alberta Express Entry Stream Self-Employed Farmer Stream British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP): The applicants can seek the nomination in British Columbia PNP under the following streams: Express Entry BC Entrepreneur Immigration Skills Immigration These streams are meant to target skilled workers, international graduates, and professionals who have the qualifications, skills, and experience required for the PNP. Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP): The Manitoba PNP invites fresh graduates, skilled workers, and businesspeople along with their families to settle in Canada as permanent residents. They are required to have the ability and intention of settling and establishing themselves economically in Manitoba. The PNP has the following streams: Skilled Workers in Manitoba Skilled Workers Overseas International Education Business Investor And so on……… 4. FAMILY SPONSORSHIP VISA Family sponsorship visa also known as Family Reunification visa, requires having a qualified family members who is either a Canadian Citizen, a permanent resident of Canada or a person registered in Canada as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act that is willing to file for you to come to Canada. If you are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada, aged 18 or over, you can sponsor certain members of your family to become permanent residents of Canada. If you become a permanent resident, you can live, study and work in Canada. If you are sponsoring a relative to come to Canada as a permanent resident, you are responsible for financially supporting your relative upon arrival. 5. QUEBEC SELECTED SKIED WORKER PROGRAM THAT’S QSWP This program is settled by the Quebec and the Canadian federal government to enable highly educated and trained nationals to immigrate to Quebec as skilled workers. It usually takes about six months to be processed once your application has been received by the ministry. A single Applicant would need to have a passing score of 50 point and 59 points if you are applying with your spouse. 6. ATLANTIC IMMIGRATION PROGRAM This program enables foreign skilled workers and international graduates from institutions in Canada who want to work and live in Canada the opportunity to migrate into any of the four Canadian Atlantic Provinces as listed below: New Brunswick Nove Scotia Prince Edward Island Newfoundland and Labrador 7. CAREGIVER PATHWAY This is a pathway that is encouraged by the Canadian government to cure their caregiver’s shortage. Applicant can be employed privately or through the government of Canada. Caregivers who are interested in immigrating to Canada have two options. They are currently two immigration programs in operation that are specifically designed for caregivers. These 2 programs were launched in 2019 following the closure of the interim pathway for caregivers. The two options are: The Home Child Care Provider. The Home Support Worker pilots. To learn more about these amazing ways to migrate to Canada kindly visit Cemcs desk now …….

The UK government prohibit international students from bringing dependents with them beginning January 2024 – unless students are in postgraduate programmers with a research focus. The move is intended to help curb net migration. The Graduate Route will not be affected in new immigration restrictions – eligible students will still be allowed 2-3 years to remain in the UK under this route, Students will not be permitted to switch to the Skilled Worker Route until they complete their program. The government says it remains committed to the UK’s International Education Strategy and that the target of attracting 600,000 international students has been met for two years running Immigration is at an all-time high in the UK, and the government wants to tighten up the profile of migrants who come to the country and bring down the net migration total. In the period June 2021–June 2022, net migration exceeded 500,000, more than double the number in 2019, and new data to be released this week is expected to show that the 2022 total has risen by at least 200,000. In 2022, says the Home Office, “almost half a million student visas were issued while the number of dependents of overseas students has increased by 750% since 2019, to 136,000 people.” Dependents include children under the age of 18, spouses or civil partners, and elderly parents who need long-term care. International students will no longer be able to obtain a Skilled Worker Visa before their studies have been completed. The rule is intended to discourage international students from choosing the UK predominantly because they want to work there, rather than study. As India’s Economic Times reported last year, “More and more international students have been opting for [the Skilled Worker route] since it offers a cheaper and faster pathway to full-time employment in the UK. The Graduate Route, on the other hand, requires students to pay expensive course fees and maintenance for the duration of their course, before entering the jobs market.” The government is shutting down the potential of the Skilled Worker Route being used as a backdoor for non-genuine students determined to find work in the UK. For more enquiries visit Cemcs desk now…………….  

YOUR AFFORDABLE ODYSSEY AWAITS Picture this: You, your loved ones, and the shimmering azure waters of an island paradise. The gentle caress of warm sea breezes, the taste of exotic flavors, and the thrill of exploring enchanting shores. Now, hold onto that dream because, guess what? You don’t need to break the bank to make it a reality!! Welcome to the world of ‘Explore the islands on a Budget’, where the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures of these idyllic getaways are yours to discover without denting your wallet. It’s not just a vacation; it’s a journey of affordability, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. So, what is the secret to this budget-friendly island escapade? it’s all about smart planning with CEMCS, local insights, and the thrill of finding hidden gems that offer affordability without compromise. From the Caribbeans to southeast Asia, from the mediterranean to the pacific, these islands hold the promise of stunning landscapes and rich tradition. Want to know how to savor local delicacies without draining your wallet? Eager to explore pristine beaches, lush jungles, and charming villages without sacrificing comfort? explore the islands on a budget unveils the tricks of the trade, from affordable local eateries to cozy guesthouses that welcome you with an open arm. But this journey is not just about saving money, it is about immersing yourself in the heart and soul of these islands. It’s about the thrill of mingling with locals, learning their stories, and experiencing the vibrant festivals and traditions that make these places so unique. Whether you are a solo adventurer, a couple in love, or a family seeking unforgettable moments, explore the islands on a budget ‘ is your passport to paradise. It’s a reminder that you don’t need a trust fund to experience the wonders of this world. So, pack your bags, dust your sunhat, grab your sense of adventure, and join the throng of savvy travelers who know that budget conscious island exploration is not just a dream – it’s an irresistible reality. The islands are calling, and they are affordable, accessible, and ready to be explored by you. Your journey to islands paradise begins here!”