This week’s NFM Digest captures major developments shaping public conversation across Nigeria and beyond. The stories spotlight government actions and urgent cases of violence that demand accountability. Together, they reflect the social, political and cultural tensions defining the moment.
- United States Suspends Visa Issuance to Nigerians
The United States Mission in Nigeria has announced that, effective January 1, 2026, it will partially suspend the issuance of certain U.S. visas to Nigerian nationals in accordance with Presidential Proclamation 10998, which addresses national security and border controls.
On December 23, 2025, the embassy updated its website to indicate that visa issuance to Nigerian citizens outside the United States will be affected under the new rules.
- Ini Edo Appeals Against Withdrawal of Her Movie ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Ini Edo has appealed to regulators and the public not to withdraw her new movie, A Very Dirty Christmas, from cinemas, insisting that the film does not ridicule Christianity in any way. In a video shared on her Instagram page on December 22, 2025, the actress repeatedly pleaded for the film to remain in theatres, emphasising that the controversy centres on the title rather than the content.
- Senator Oluremi Tinubu calls for unity, compassion in Christmas message
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s First Lady, urged Nigerians to embrace unity, compassion and generosity in a Christmas message shared on Dec 25, 2025. She also prayed for peace, religious harmony and safety across the country, expressing hope that 2026 will bring renewed unity and prosperity.
- Jordan D. Jackson-Small charged with murder of Lion King actress Imani Dia Smith
Jordan D. Jackson-Small, the boyfriend of Imani Dia Smith, known for playing young Nala in the Broadway show The Lion King, has been charged with murder following her death at age 26. Police say Imani was fatally stabbed at her New Jersey home, and Jackson-Small is being held in custody as investigations continue.
- “Marriage is overrated,” says Yvonne Jegede
Nollywood actress and producer Yvonne Jegede described marriage as overrated, saying it often comes with unrealistic expectations that place pressure on women, during a Naija FM Lagos interview published on Dec 17, 2025. She also revealed that she recently formalised her self-funded foundation to expand educational support for children and single parents, citing rising costs and the need for long-term sustainability.
