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Tag: Finland

  • BREAKING: Simon Ekpa sentenced to six years in prison

    BREAKING: Simon Ekpa sentenced to six years in prison

    A district court in Finland has issued a verdict against Simon Ekpa, sentencing him to six years in prison.

    Ekpa was found guilty on multiple serious charges, terrorism-related offences, aggravated tax fraud, and violations of legal statutes governing attorneys.

    Ekpa was convicted by the Paijat-Hame District Court of participating in a terrorist organisation and publicly inciting crimes with terrorist intent.

    The court found that between August 2021 and November 2024, he used his social media influence to inflame tensions in Nigeria’s southeast, advocating for Biafran independence by force and supporting armed groups with weapons, explosives, and ammunition.

    In addition to the terrorism charges, Ekpa was also found guilty of aggravated tax fraud and breaches of attorney conduct regulations.

    Born on March 21, 1985, in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, Simon Ekpa moved to Finland in 2007. A former athlete and local council member in Lahti, he later became a vocal leader of the Biafra independence movement and declared himself the “Prime Minister” of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE).

    Arrested by Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation in November 2024, Ekpa was held pending further proceedings. He was specifically accused of inciting violence via social media and supporting armed separatist operations in Nigeria.

    His assets and those linked to his associates were frozen as part of the pre-trial measures. However, the verdict is not final and may be appealed to a higher court.

  • Finland ranked world’s happiest country, Nigeria drops to 105

    Finland ranked world’s happiest country, Nigeria drops to 105

    The World Happiness Report 2025, released on Thursday, ranks Finland as the happiest country for the eighth consecutive year.

    Other Nordic countries, including Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden, also remain at the top in the same order.

    Nigeria secured the 105 ranking out of 147 nations in the 2025 Report.

    The report showed that Nigeria dropped three spots from its 2024 ranking of 102, but has moved higher to become the 10th happiest country in Africa.

    Libya emerged the highest-ranked nation in Africa, securing 79 on the standing, surpassing its neighbors in life satisfaction and societal well-being amidst a landscape of ongoing challenges.

    According to the report, the Netherlands  stands at number five, Israel number eight  and Luxembourg  number nine,completing  the top 10 list.

    The United States, which fell out of the top 20 for the first time last year, now ranks No. 24, as it reached its highest ranking of number 11 back in 2012.

    The decline in happiness is not exclusive to the US, as the  United Kingdom now stands at  23, recording  its lowest average life satisfaction since 2017.

    Meanwhile, Canada, which has seen a downward trend in happiness over the past decade, remained in the top 20 at number 18.

    Once again, Afghanistan, which has been suffering from a humanitarian catastrophe since the Taliban movement regained control of the government in 2021, remains the unhappiest country in the world.

    Afghanistan is ranked last at number. 147, followed by Sierra Leone at 146 Lebanon at 145, Malawi at 144, and Zimbabwe at 143, rounding out the five lowest-ranking countries in the happiness index.

    NAN reports that the International Day of Happiness, celebrated annually on March 20 since 2013, coincides with the release of the yearly report.

    The World Happiness Report is released by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network in collaboration with Gallup and the Oxford Center for Well-Being Research.

    It examines how happiness varies across populations, showing significant differences within and between nations.

    The report looks at six key variables to help explain life evaluations: GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity and perceptions of corruption.

    This year’s report edition focused “on the impact of caring and sharing on people’s happiness”,  and how happiness varies across populations, showing significant differences within and between nations.

  • What Tinubu told Finish govt on Simon Ekpa’s arrest, detention

    What Tinubu told Finish govt on Simon Ekpa’s arrest, detention

    President Bola Tinubu on Friday commended the intervention of the Finish government with the arrest and detention of Simon Ekpa.

    Tinubu spoke when he received the Letters of Credence from the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms Sanna Selin, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

    The president said that government would not tolerate actions and statements that could lead to divisiveness among citizens.

    He also commended the Finnish authorities for the timely intervention that safeguarded the nation’s integrity and mitigated an action that threatened peaceful coexistence.

    “I must thank you for your record on safeguarding human rights in our country with the trial of Simon Ekpa. Nigeria is indivisible.

    ”We have been through turbulent times, and we don’t want to promote terrorism,” Tinubu told the Finnish ambassador.

    “I am a child born into activism, but not divisiveness.

    ”We need cohesion and cooperation to bring about development.

    ”Our watchword is stability and cohesion to move the country forward.

    “The National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has informed me. I know what the rule of law means.

    ”The rule of law safeguards our democratic credentials, morals and values.

    ”We must respect the rule of law,” the president said.

    Similarly, Tinubu received Letters of Credence from the Ambassador of the European Union, Mr Gautier Mignot, and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of Algeria, Hocine Mezoued.

    The president noted that the ambassador’s priorities, including Information and Communications Technology (ICT), agriculture and education, would directly impact the country’s development.

    “Nigeria is undergoing a series of necessary reforms to stimulate growth and prosperity.

    ”Thank you also for the humanitarian support in the North East.

    ”I believe that we can work together,” he added.

    Responding, the Ambassador of Finland extolled the president for his courage in initiating reforms that would benefit the economy and ensure prosperity in the future.

    “Simon Ekpa has been hindering bilateral relations.

    ”The cooperation between our two countries is going very well now.

    ”The National Security Adviser has been providing all the evidence,” the ambassador noted.

    “I salute you for all the ongoing reforms in the country.

    ”They are not easy. Even though it is painful, it is the only way Nigeria can progress. It is essential for the country.

    “Finland has been involved in peace mediation as well.

    ”We also have opportunities for Nigeria in energy. We can work and make it a realisable dream,” she stated.

    In a meeting with the Ambassador of the European Union, Tinubu noted that the group remained one of the highest trading partners of Nigeria.

    He urged the envoy to work toward elevating the volume of transactions and strengthening the ties.

    According to the president, Nigeria needs support in digitalising and automating operations and processes for rendering services.

    The president said the Nigerian economy could support investments with its vibrant and youthful population.

    Tinubu urged collaboration between Nigeria and Algeria to implement the trans-Saharan African Gas Pipeline project.

    “We need to lift one another in Africa and we will be stronger together.

    ”We can be abused or ignored, but we have nothing to prove to anyone but ourselves.

    ”We must lift Africa together,” the president said.

    Mignot told the president that Nigeria holds “many untapped potential ” adding that more could be realised through development, cooperation and technology leveraging.

    “We have a solid partnership based on our shared values,” he said.

    The Algerian Ambassador also said the trans-Sahara African Gas Pipeline project and other proposed regional development projects would significantly impact the continent.

    He said Algeria would continue to support Nigeria in negotiating for improved livelihood on the continent with multilateral institutions.

  • DISOWNED! IPOB distance self Simon Ekpa amid Finland detention

    DISOWNED! IPOB distance self Simon Ekpa amid Finland detention

    Barely 24hours after his detention, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) led by detained Nnamdi Kanu has again dissociated itself from Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed Prime Minister of Biafra Republic Government In Exile (BRGIE) and his operations.

    Recall the media has reported on Thursday that Finland district court in Lahti ordered that he should be remanded in prison following his arrest for suspected terrorist activities.

    Reacting to his arrest, IPOB in a statement issued on Friday morning by its Media, and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful, stated that Ekpa was never a member of IPOB, adding that he was not a registered member in any country including in Finland.

    IPOB also disassociated itself from his BRGIE, adding that he was an agent paid to infiltrate and destroy the IPOB peaceful movement for Biafra self-determination.

    The statement partly reads: “For public records, Simon Ekpa has never been a member of IPOB led by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who is currently being detained illegally in the DSS solitary confinement by the Nigerian Government since almost four years.”

    Powerful noted that contrary to the disinformation from the BBC News report that Simon Ekpa is an IPOB leader, “Ekpa is not an IPOB member, let alone be a leader in IPOB.”

    He said, “IPOB has some family units in Finland, and Simon Ekpa is not a registered member of any IPOB unit in Finland or any unit globally. Mazi Nnamdi Okwu Kanu established IPOB as a peaceful movement to seek Biafra Independence via a supervised UN referendum.

    “IPOB is a peaceful global movement that has never taken to violence or arms struggle in two decades of our self-determination struggle.”

    IPOB said though it has been provoked by various “murderous regimes” in Nigeria, it has “remained resolute and peaceful”.

    It said, “On the other hand, Simon Ekpa was seen by some innocent Biafrans as someone sympathetic to the Biafra course. Until they discovered that he was a destructive. He recruited violent criminals to destabilize the South East Region in 2021.

    “He is a self-acclaimed prime minister of a small group called Biafra Government in Exile (BGIE). The infamous BGIE led by Simon Ekpa created a violent group that call themselves the Biafra Liberation Army. They have perpetuated various violent acts against the civilians in the Eastern Region in the name of Biafra agitation.

    “IPOB family worldwide refused to accept that system to achieve Biafra freedom and sovereignty. His group and the Nigerian Army are responsible for many kidnappings, rapes, forceful disappearances, killings, and burning of homes in the South Eastern region. Undoubtedly, Simon Ekpa has claimed responsibility for the violent actions of his criminal gang.

    “The Simon Ekpa-led group has no alliance or relationship with IPOB and Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. He recruited his criminals who have been terrorizing the Biafran territory since 2021 after the kidnap, extraordinary rendition, and illegal detention of the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from Kenya to Nigeria.

    “The Nigerian government and politicians whom Biafrans believe contracted Simon Ekpa has been tagging his group’s violent and terrorist activities on IPOB just to blackmail and demonize the genuine and peaceful Biafra self-determination struggle led by the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.

    “IPOB is by this press release calling on BBC News and Finnish Authorities to note that Simon Ekpa has no relationship with IPOB in Finland or any other unit globally. He should not be associated with IPOB because IPOB does not support violent agitation that he represents.

    “IPOB led by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is a peaceful movement that has adopted civil disobedience to press our demand for Biafra’s self-determination and referendum. Unlike Simon Ekpa, who recruits and funds criminals who carry out killings of civilians and government agents, destroyed many homes in Biafra territory.”

    IPOB warned that no person or institution should link Simon Ekpa and his group to IPOB, insisting that it has no relationship whatsoever with his group.

    “Simon Ekpa has been shielded from arrest and terrorism charges against innocent Biafran civilians by the Nigerian and the Finnish governments’ diplomatic maneuvering. However, for every crime, there is a day of reckoning,” Powerful said.

    Regarding Ekpa’s arrest, Powerful urged all IPOB members, ‘Biafrans’ and lovers of Biafra freedom to remain calm and focus on the ball, which is the release of Kanu from detention and the Biafra restoration project. “IPOB does not do violent agitation or violence against civilians. IPOB does not do violent agitation or violence against the Nigerian Security Forces or the sponsored infiltrator criminals represented by Simon Ekpa,” Powerful added.

  • Chief of Defence Staff opens up on Simon Ekpa’s arrest

    Chief of Defence Staff opens up on Simon Ekpa’s arrest

    Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has expressed happiness with the arrest and detention of the factional leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), Simon Ekpa by the Finnish authority.

    The Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, made this known in a  statement on Thursday in Abuja.

    “CDS is happy with his arrest in Finland, with the hope this will be a step towards his extradition to Nigeria so that he will face justice,” he said.

    Also, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, said the CDS had always called for the arrest of Simon Ekpa following is deep involvement in fueling terrorism in South East Nigeria.

    “We are delighted about his arrest, and glad that the international community is partnering with Nigeria in our fight against terrorism,” he added.

    Recall that the military had in March declared 97 persons wanted for terrorism, violent extremism and secessionist threats against the country.

    Among those declared wanted is Simon Ekpa, who is based in Finland but is believed to be behind the insecurity in the South-east region The news of Ekpa’s arrest in Finland broke on Thursday quoting Finnish local newspapers.

  • CDS Musa on Ekpa’s extradition to Nigeria: ‘I’m happy with his arrest in Finland’

    CDS Musa on Ekpa’s extradition to Nigeria: ‘I’m happy with his arrest in Finland’

    The Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, Gen Chris Musa, has reacted to the arrest of Simon Ekpa, the self-proclaimed Prime Minister of Biafra Republic Government in Exile.

    The CDS said he’s happy with Ekpa’s arrest in Finland.

    This was disclosed in a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brig Gen Tukur Gusau.

    Ekpa was arrested and remanded in detention by Finnish authorities over alleged links with terrorism.

    “CDS is happy with his (Ekpa) arrest in Finland, with the hope this will be a step towards his extradition to Nigeria so that he will face justice,” the statement said.

    The court in Finland reportedly said Ekpa allegedly spread separatist propaganda on social media.

    It was reported that Ekpa allegedly committed the crime on 23 August 2021 in Lahti.

  • CARTOON OF THE DAY: Why Nigerians don’t japa to the happiest country in the world, Finland

    CARTOON OF THE DAY: Why Nigerians don’t japa to the happiest country in the world, Finland

    CARTOON OF THE DAY: Why Nigerians don't japa to the happiest country in the world, Finland

  • Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Ahtisaari dies at 86

    Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Ahtisaari dies at 86

    Former Finnish President and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Martti Ahtisaari has died at the age of 86, Finland’s presidential office said on Monday.

    Ahtisaari passed away in Helsinki at 6:40 a.m. (0340 GMT), the presidential office said in a statement.

    Ahtisaari, who was born in 1937, served as Finland’s president from 1994 to 2000.

    Before his tenure, he held a number of positions in the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs as well as the United Nations.

    One of his last major political assignments was as a UN special envoy for Kosovo.

    Following his presidency, Ahtisaari founded a peace brokerage organisation called the Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation.

    He made a name for himself as a mediator for the settlement of crises and conflicts.

    In 2008, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his peacekeeping efforts.

    “It is with great sadness that we have received the news of the death of President Ahtisaari.

    Ahtisaari believed in humankind, civilisation and goodness, and he lived a great, significant life.

    He was President in times of change, who piloted Finland into a global EU era, Finnish President Sauli Niinistö was reported as saying in the statement.

    In 2021, it became known that Ahtisaari was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, and as a result, he gave up all public activities.

  • Thrill Seeker’s Paradise: Top Winter Sports Destinations in Finland

    Thrill Seeker’s Paradise: Top Winter Sports Destinations in Finland

    Finland, a land of enchanting landscapes and winter wonder, beckons adrenaline enthusiasts with a plethora of heart-pounding winter sports. From skiing down pristine slopes to scaling icy cliffs, this Nordic haven offers an array of activities that cater to the adventurous spirit. For those seeking an adrenaline fix amidst stunning natural surroundings, Finland travel packages and Finland city breaks present an ideal opportunity. In this article, we unveil the top winter sports destinations in Finland, each offering its own unique blend of excitement and breathtaking beauty, complemented by relevant statistics and research findings.

    Ruka-Kuusamo: A Winter Playground Ruka-Kuusamo, nestled in the heart of Finland’s Lapland region, is a winter playground that caters to all manner of thrill seekers. With an average of 400,000 visitors each winter season, it’s a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Finland travel packages often include this gem, allowing visitors to experience everything from downhill skiing to snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and even snowmobiling. Research findings suggest a consistent rise in winter tourism to this region, with a 15% increase in visits over the past three years. Engage in heart-pounding activities during the day and unwind beneath the Northern Lights in the evenings.

    Levi: Where Adventure Awaits

    Levi, another Lapland gem, offers an adventure-packed winter sports experience that caters to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. This resort town boasts over 230,000 annual visitors, reflecting its popularity among those seeking an adrenaline rush. Finland travel packages often include Levi due to its diverse offerings, including skiing, snowshoeing, ice-fishing, and even husky sledding. Research findings indicate that Levi has seen a steady growth in winter tourism, with a 10% increase in international visitors over the last two years. Experience the thrill of night skiing under the Arctic sky and embrace the magic of the polar night.

    Ylläs: A Haven for Snow Lovers

    Ylläs, a winter wonderland set against a backdrop of pristine forests and glistening snow, is a haven for snow enthusiasts. With over 330,000 visitors annually, it’s clear that Ylläs holds a special place in the hearts of winter sports aficionados. Finland travel packages often include Ylläs due to its extensive network of cross-country skiing trails and alpine slopes. Research findings suggest a consistent demand for Ylläs experiences, with a 20% increase in bookings for snow-based activities over the past

    three years. Engage in exhilarating snowboarding, or snowshoeing, or explore the Arctic wilderness by snowmobile.

    Pyhä-Luosto: An Arctic Adventure

    Pyhä-Luosto, nestled within the Pyhä-Luosto National Park, offers an Arctic adventure that’s both invigorating and awe-inspiring. With approximately 150,000 annual visitors, this destination’s popularity is on the rise. Finland travel packages often feature Pyhä-Luosto, allowing visitors to experience ice-climbing, snowshoeing, and even ice fishing. Research findings indicate a growing interest in Pyhä-Luosto’s winter offerings, with a 10% increase in winter tourists over the last two years. Scale frozen waterfalls, traverse snowy landscapes, and witness the beauty of the Northern Lights dancing above.

    Tahko: Alpine Thrills and Frozen Lakes

    Tahko, located in the Lakeland region, offers a unique blend of alpine thrills and frozen lake adventures. This picturesque destination attracts around 250,000 visitors annually, signifying its appeal to winter sports enthusiasts. Finland travel packages often include Tahko due to its diverse offerings, from skiing and snowboarding to ice-skating and ice-karting on frozen lakes. Research findings suggest a steady interest in Tahko, with a 15% increase in winter tourism over the past three years. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Finnish winter landscape while experiencing the rush of high-speed activities.

    Vuokatti: Where Snow and Sport Converge

    Vuokatti, known for its excellent snow conditions and comprehensive sports facilities, is a hub for winter athletes of all levels. With over 200,000 annual visitors, it’s clear that Vuokatti’s charm extends beyond its borders. Finland travel packages often include Vuokatti due to its extensive range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating, and even biathlon training. Research findings indicate a growing trend in winter tourism to Vuokatti, with a 10% increase in international visitors over the past two years. Engage in adrenaline-pumping activities during the day and unwind at spa resorts in the evenings.

    Ounasvaara: Arctic Adventures and Aurora Quests

    Ounasvaara, situated in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, offers Arctic adventures intertwined with the quest to witness the Northern Lights. This destination sees around 300,000 visitors annually, showcasing its allure for those seeking a winter adrenaline rush. Finland travel packages often include Ounasvaara due to its mix of skiing, snowboarding, and the promise of catching the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. Research findings suggest a steady interest in Ounasvaara’s winter offerings, with a 15% increase in tourists over the past three years.

    Rovaniemi: Arctic Playground and Santa’s Home

    Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland and famously known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, is an Arctic playground that offers winter sports enthusiasts a unique blend of adventure and holiday magic. With an annual influx of around 500,000 visitors, Rovaniemi’s popularity is evident in its appeal to families and adventurers alike. Finland travel packages often include Rovaniemi due to its diverse offerings, from snowboarding and skiing to snowmobiling and reindeer sleigh rides. Research findings indicate a consistent rise in winter tourism to Rovaniemi, with a 10% increase in visitors over the past three years. Immerse yourself in the thrill of winter sports during the day and delight in enchanting Northern Lights quests by night, creating cherished memories for all ages.

    Salla: A Wilderness Haven for Extreme Sports

    Salla, situated near the Russian border, offers extreme sports enthusiasts a wilderness haven for embracing the winter’s raw beauty. With an annual visitor count of approximately 50,000, Salla’s allure lies in its off-the-beaten-path appeal for adventure seekers. Finland travel packages often feature Salla, catering to those who crave snowboarding, snowkiting, and ice climbing in untamed surroundings. Research findings suggest a growing trend in winter tourism to Salla, with a 10% increase in the number of visitors over the past two years. Engage in adrenaline-pumping activities amidst vast snowy landscapes and savour the pristine wilderness that defines Salla’s charm.

    Koli National Park: Nordic Skiing and Breathtaking Views

    Koli National Park, located in eastern Finland, offers Nordic skiing enthusiasts a breathtaking winter sports experience amid stunning landscapes. With around 100,000 visitors annually, Koli is a destination of choice for those seeking cross-country skiing adventures. Finland travel packages often include Koli due to its serene beauty and well-maintained ski trails that wind through snowy forests and offer panoramic views over frozen lakes. Research findings suggest a steady interest in Koli’s winter offerings, with a 15% increase in visitors over the past three years. Traverse the trails of Koli National Park, relishing the harmony between physical activity and the splendour of the natural world.

    Conclusion

    Finland’s winter sports destinations are a testament to the country’s commitment to providing exhilarating adventures against the backdrop of stunning Arctic landscapes. The statistics and research findings underscore the global appeal of these destinations, demonstrating the enduring popularity of Finland’s winter sports offerings. Whether you’re conquering untamed slopes in Salla, embracing the Arctic

    magic of Rovaniemi, or Nordic skiing through Koli’s picturesque trails, each winter sports destination offers a unique blend of excitement and natural beauty.

    As you navigate the snowy terrains and engage in adrenaline-pumping activities, you become an integral part of Finland’s winter narrative, where the thrill of adventure harmonizes with the serenity of the landscape. Choose from a variety of Finland travel packages and city breaks that align with your winter sports preferences, and embark on an unforgettable journey that invigorates the spirit and renews your connection with nature’s wonders.

  • Ekpa announces Biafra Self Referendum Convention in Finland

    Ekpa announces Biafra Self Referendum Convention in Finland

    Finland-based self-acclaimed factional leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Simon Ekpa, on Saturday, announced a historic Biafran Self Referendum convention tagged BSRC 2023.

    Ekpa, lawyer and  Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government disclosed this through his official Twitter handle on Saturday.

    The event will take place in his base Finland and it will be the first time ever such a gathering would happen in the European country.

    Ekpa has continued to show his unalloyed commitment towards achieving the Biafra referendum and call for the release of the Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu.

    “Biafrans worldwide, get ready. It is the First Ever Biafra Self Referendum Convention BSRC 2023 in Finland. Get ready; the date, time, and location are to be announced soon”, he wrote.