August was a busy month on the continent and beyond. We covered a pricey passport hike in Nigeria, celebrated a public‑works hero in the United States, and reported on Sporting CP’s strong start to the new Liga Portugal season. Below is a quick rundown of the stories that mattered.
From September 1, 2025, Nigeria raised its domestic passport fees to ₦100,000 for a 32‑page booklet and ₦200,000 for a 64‑page version. The move shocked many because the new cost dwarfs the country’s ₦70,000 monthly minimum wage. Opposition leader Peter Obi slammed the increase, saying it pushes travel out of reach for students, workers, and families who need a passport for study or work abroad.
The Immigration Service defended the hike, arguing the extra money will improve service quality, shorten processing times, and fund better security features. Critics, however, worry the fees will create a new barrier for ordinary Nigerians, especially in a country where many rely on overseas opportunities to support their households.
Across the Atlantic, Stonington’s public‑works department honored Tom Curioso as the Supervisor of the Year. He began his career in 1986 driving a dump truck and now serves as Deputy Director. Nearly four decades of hands‑on experience have shaped the town’s roads, water lines, and storm‑drain systems.
Curioso’s colleagues praised his ability to mentor younger staff and keep projects on schedule, even during budget cuts. The American Public Works Association highlighted his commitment to safety, innovation, and community outreach as key reasons for the award.
His story shows how steady dedication can turn a humble start into a leadership role that benefits an entire community.
In Portugal, Sporting CP opened the 2025‑26 Liga Portugal campaign with a clean 2‑0 victory over Casa Pia. Young forward Francisco Trincão stole the spotlight, scoring one goal and providing the assist for the second. The win puts Sporting in a good position to defend their title hopes.
Casa Pia struggled to create clear chances, leaving Sporting to control the midfield and dictate the pace. Fans praised the team’s calm composure and tactical discipline, suggesting they could be serious contenders this season.
Overall, August delivered a mix of local impact and global interest. Whether it’s policy changes affecting everyday Nigerians, a public‑works leader getting well‑deserved recognition, or a Portuguese club firing on all cylinders, each story offers a window into how people, institutions, and sport shape our world.
Stay tuned to Ground Report Testing for more updates, analysis, and diverse perspectives from across Africa and beyond.
Nigeria raised domestic passport fees to ₦100,000 for 32 pages and ₦200,000 for 64 pages from Sept 1, 2025. Peter Obi condemned the decision, noting the new costs exceed the ₦70,000 monthly minimum wage. The Immigration Service says higher fees will sustain quality and service. Critics say the increase prices out students, workers, and families who need to travel for study or work.
Tom Curioso, who started as a truck driver in 1986, is now Deputy Director of Stonington Public Works and has been named Supervisor of the Year by the American Public Works Association. His nearly 40 years of service have improved local infrastructure and inspired his department.
Sporting CP started the 2025-26 Liga Portugal season with a strong 2-0 win over Casa Pia. Trincão shone with a goal and an assist, helping Sporting defend their title dreams. Casa Pia struggled to create real chances, while Sporting looked calm and in control.
