News on the Go: 5 things that should matter to you today

• Labour to demand cost of living allowance amid soaring inflation, Ajaero
• Lagos to restrict traffic for APC primaries on May 10
• British High Commission addresses concerns over stricter visa rules

We have highlighted the five most important developments in the news today, Thursday, May 8, and present them below.

5 issues in the news that should matter to you today

1. Labour to demand cost of living allowance amid soaring inflation, Ajaero: As inflation continues to rise, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) are intensifying calls for a cost of living allowance, even beyond the newly proposed N70,000 national minimum wage. 

The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, speaking after the event, emphasised that addressing the impact of economic hardship on workers has become a top priority. 

He hinted that pushing for a cost of living allowance will be labour’s next major battle with both the government and employers.

2. Lagos to restrict traffic for APC primaries on May 10: Ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries scheduled for Saturday, May 10, 2025, the Lagos State government has announced a temporary road closure around the APC State Secretariat on Acme Road, Ikeja. 

The move aims to ensure smooth traffic flow during the event.

3. Social media activist VeryDarkMan released after EFCC detention: Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has been released from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after spending five days detained over allegations of financial misconduct. 

His lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, confirmed the release on Wednesday, May 7, after his bail conditions were met.

4. Google launches AI Max to boost business visibility in search ads: Google has introduced AI Max, a powerful upgrade to its Search Ads platform, aimed at enhancing online visibility for businesses globally, including across Africa. 

Announced on Wednesday, May 7, AI Max leverages advanced artificial intelligence to optimize ad placements and improve how businesses appear in search results. 

5. British High Commission addresses concerns over stricter visa rules: In response to rising concerns about stricter UK visa requirements for Nigerians, the British High Commission in Nigeria has clarified its stance. 

A spokesperson on Wednesday, May 7, reassured that while the UK immigration system is continuously reviewed, its primary aim remains to support legal migration and facilitate legitimate travel.