The Honourable Minister of FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, BARR EZENWO NYESOM WIKE, CON and the Honourable Minister of State, DR MARIYA MAHMOUD, on behalf of all residents of the FCT
TO THE Commissioning of the newly Constructed Road from A2 Junction (Abuja – Lokoja Road) to Pai Town
FCTA
Date: Monday, 23rd June, 2025 Venue: Pai Village Time: 2.30 pm
James Emejo in Abuja
The Bank of Industry (BoI) has launched its Sustainable Finance Framework, a strategic blueprint that reaffirms the bank’s commitment to driving responsible, inclusive and
environmentally sustainable growth across the country.
The framework aligns with BoI's 2025–2027 corporate strategy, which prioritises long-term development impact, environmental stewardship, social inclusion, and the creation of
shared value—while addressing both national and global challenges.
In a statement, Managing Director/ Chief Executive, BoI, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, said the framework marked a significant milestone in "our journey to become a fully sustainable
development finance institution." He said, "It reflects our strategic intent to finance enterprises that deliver both economic value and measurable social and environmental benefits."
The bank's Divisional Head,
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
In a move to restructure Nigeria’s trade infrastructure and unlock export potential, the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and Nigeria (MITI) and the Nigeria Commodity Exchange (NCX) are collaborating with the Africa Trade and Distribution Company (ATDC) to set up Nigeria’s first national export trading company (NETC).
Discussions are said to be at an advanced stage for the proposed NETC, which is configured to be an operating entity of ATDC, earlier set up by Afreximbank through the Fund for Export Development in Africa (FEDA), Arise Integrated Industrial Platform (ARISE IIP)
and Equitane, in partnership with the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) Secretariat.
The ATDC was established as a continental trading company mandated to streamline regional trade and transform Africa’s productive capacity.
The continental trading firm will provide market intelligence, logistics, finance and aggregation services to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), smallholder farmers, informal cross-border traders and even larger corporates to participate in international trade under the AfCFTA and globally.
Announced in the presence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inaugural West African
Economic Summit Deal Room in Abuja, weekend, the NETC initiative represents a bold shift in enabling Nigerian MSMEs to participate more competitively in regional and global trade through access to modern infrastructure, working capital solutions, and structured market linkages.
The NETC will be developed and operated through ATDC Nigeria, a new joint platform that merges NCX’s institutional role in commodity markets with ATDC’s trade execution and logistics capacity.
The company will directly address long-standing gaps across Nigeria’s export ecosystemparticularly in warehousing, quality control, transport, market access,
and financing for smallholder producers and agro-industrial SMEs.
It will play a critical role in reducing post-harvest losses through modern aggregation and storage; structuring commodity exports with traceability and quality control.
It will also provide market intelligence and market access to certified regional and global buyers; facilitate innovative trade finance for SMEs; and revitalise NCX as a hub for structured commodity trade.
The NETC initiative is a flagship achievement under the leadership of the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, reflecting her commitment to bold, market-aligned reforms that bridge Nigeria’s production potential with real, inclusive trade outcomes.
Public Relations, Theodora Amechi, said the blueprint was also designed to empower Nigerian enterprises.
She noted that the framework establishes a strong foundation for aligning BoI’s financing activities with global sustainability goals and leading Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices.
Furthermore, Amechi said the framework is aligned with key global and national sustainability principles, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); Paris Agreement; Principles for Responsible Banking, and the Nigerian Sustainable Banking Principles (NSBP).
The blueprint also integrates the BoI’s internal ESG frameworks, including its ESG and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policies, which guide the bank’s sustainability management practices.
At the heart of the framework is the bank's adoption of a triplebottom-line model focused on People, Planet and Profit, ensuring, its investments generate financial returns alongside inclusive and environmental outcomes, the statement added.
The framework will enable the bank to programmatically raise Green, Social and Sustainability Bonds and Loans, in line with the
accepted as the country's freest and fairest election, explained that Lamido's version of what transpired was false.
This was as the presidency, too, yesterday, reacted to the Lamido's allegations, saying contrary to his claims, it was he (Lamido) and his comrades, who sold out the June 12 struggle of the late Chief MKO Abiola with the late Sani Abacha junta.
However, Alake has rejected the assertion by Lamido that Tinubu sold out during the June 12 poll and that Tinubu's mother, Hajia Abibatu Mogaji mobilised market women to throw their support for Babangida, the then military Head of State.
“I feel very appalled at his own submissions, which I would ascribe largely to selective amnesia at best, or at the very worst, an impairment of the medulla oblongata, due to some atrophy of age, or memory loss in layman's terms.
“Now, Sule Lamido himself was the guilty party to the sustenance of the annulment of that June 12th election. And before I go on, let me establish the basis for my authoritative submission on this issue.
“Everybody knows I was the editor of Sunday Concord, which was owned by MKO Abiola, who won the election. And what most people didn't know, including Sule Lamido, was that the very first public statement of MKO Abiola to the entire world, of his intention to even run for office in January of 1993, I wrote it. I wrote that statement, and I advertised it in all Nigerian newspapers and all Nigerian television stations,” Alake.
According to him, it smacked of gross revisionism for Lamido to say that Tinubu supported the annulment of the June 12 mandate, stressing that the current President was with Abiola before, during and after the June 12 election. For the sake of the younger generation, Alake maintained that it was mandatory to establish what happened at the time, stating that Tinubu's mother, Hajia Abibatu Mogaji, never mobilised market women to support the annulment of June 12.
On the other hand, he stated that Lamido was only embarking on revisionist history by insinuating that Tinubu sold out, expressing the view that the former Jigawa governor was only trying to cover the unenviable role he played in the June 12 saga.
Aside from actively supporting MKO Abiola and being one of those that convinced Atiku Abubakar to step down for him, he stated that even when he was behind bars, Tinubu was still
funding the movement against the military.
“Tinubu was one of the funders and one of the organisers, one of the planners of all the protests, July 23, 24, 25 of 1993 against the annulment. This was way before Abacha. Abacha did not come until November 17, 1993,’’ Alake maintained.
He highlighted various instances to show that there was no truth in Lamido's narrative, stating that it was Tinubu, for instance, that escorted MKO to go and see Abacha to negotiate how Abacha would relinquish office and hand over back to MKO.
“If Tinubu was working for Abacha, how would he be doing that? How would he be confronting Abacha frontally that he was in detention. And in fact, there was a time they issued a directive that he must be found, he must be brought in dead or alive.
“It was at that point he had to leave through the famous NADECO route. The Abacha goons were all over looking for him. And I remember that. So that was the reason that he left. So he didn't run away,” Alake stated in his defence of the President.
Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, in a release titled: "Setting the Record Straight: President Tinubu's Role in the June 12 Struggle", described claims by Lamido that Tinubu and his mother, the late Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji supported the annulment as false, a distortion of history and a regrettable attempt at revisionism.
The presidency pointed out that rather than selling out, Tinubu stood by June 12 and resisted attempts by then Head of State, General Sani Abacha to dissolve the Third Republic.
It further stated that the president, apart from being co-founder of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) also funded activists to protest against the annulment of June 12 election.
The presidency also accused the leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) of which Lamido was the National Secretary of trading off the victory of their presidential candidate, Chief MKO Abiola, in the June 12 poll.
"The attention of the Presidency has been drawn to recent comments made by Alhaji Sule Lamido, former governor of Jigawa State, on live television, in which he falsely accused President Bola
Tinubu of supporting the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
"Alhaji Lamido's claims represent a distortion of history and a regrettable attempt at revisionism. He alleged that President Tinubu only rose to prominence after the formation of NADECO and claimed that Tinubu's mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, mobilised market women to back the annulment. These allegations are patently false.
"Let us set the record straight: Alhaja Mogaji never mobilised market women to support the unjust annulment. Had she done so, she would have lost her position as market leader in Lagos. While she once had a personal relationship with then-President Babangida, this was before the annulment crisis.
"It is important to remind Nigerians that Alhaji Lamido, as secretary of the Social Democratic Party (SDP)—the party whose candidate, MKO Abiola, won the June 12 election—was among those who failed to oppose the military's injustice.
“The SDP leadership, including Lamido and chairman Tony Anenih, wrote their names in the book of infamy by surrendering the people's mandate without resistance. To their eternal shame, Lamido and Anenih teamed up with the defeated National Republican Convention to deny Abiola his mandate.
"In sharp contrast, Senator Bola Tinubu stood firm even before General Abacha dissolved the political parties and all democratic institutions, including the National Assembly, on November 17, 1993, following his coup.
"Days after General Babangida addressed the Senate and announced his decision to step aside on August 27, 1993, the setting up of an interim government to replace him, Senators debated the speech.
“On the Senate floor on August 19, 1993, Tinubu unequivocally condemned the annulment, describing it as another coup d'état and urging Nigerians to reject injustice and lawlessness.
"The records captured his contribution, showing that he supported upholding the June 12 election, not against it, as Lamido claimed. We have a situation that suggests that the abortion of the June 12 election is another coup d'etat," Senator Tinubu said.
Continuing, Onanuga recalled Tinubu adding: "My question is, when are we going to stop tolerating injustices, coup d'etat and abuse by the people on whom we invested so much resources—the public funds of this country?
“Yes, it is true that we have a crisis, but for every action, there must be a reaction. This is a self-inflicted crisis because, without the abortion or annulment of the June 12 election, there would be no crisis like this. We have a government that made the law and abused its law.
“Therefore, the present military administration, by virtue of abrogation and violation of its own decree, has committed a crime," the Senator from Lagos West told his colleagues.
"The election winner, Abiola, was out of the country when the legislators debated Babangida's offer to step aside for an interim government. He returned in September 1993.
“And who followed him to the Abacha military group, then openly planning a coup against the Ernest Shonekan-led ING? It was Tinubu. Photographs exist today, showing Tinubu behind Abiola and Abacha.
"Abacha took over on November 17, 1993, and dissolved all democratic institutions, including governors, the National Assembly, and the state legislature. Tinubu and a group of senators reconvened in Lagos, defying the junta. Tinubu, Ameh Ebute, Abu Ibrahim, and others were arrested and kept at Alagbon.
“The police took them to court and fabricated a case against them. While in police detention, Tinubu continued to fund pro-June 12 protests in Lagos, including the blockade of the Third Mainland Bridge.
"Weeks after Abacha supplanted the ING, it quickly became clear to Abiola and Tinubu that Abacha would not be a soldier of democracy as he reneged on allowing Abiola to reclaim his mandate.
"Enter the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). It was born on May 15, 1994. Comprising a broad coalition of Nigerian democrats, it called on the military government of Sani Abacha to step down in favour of the winner of the June 12, 1993, election, MKO Abiola.
“On the first anniversary of his election, Abiola made a declaration at Epetedo in Lagos, announcing himself as the duly elected president. Ten days after, on June 22, he was arrested, following which many pro-democracy activists also escaped from Nigeria, including Bola Tinubu.
“Tinubu lived in exile for nearly five years while Lamido and his ilk made deals with Abacha. While Tinubu was away, agents of the junta bombed his home in Balarabe Musa Crescent,
latest applicable International Capital Market Association (ICMA), Loan Market Association (LMA) and Loan Syndications and Trading Association (LSTA) principles and guidelines. It added that the framework had also been independently evaluated by S&P Global Ratings, which issued a Second Party Opinion (SPO) affirming its alignment with international sustainable finance principles. The validation enhances the bank's credibility among institutional investors seeking impactful ESGaligned opportunities in emerging markets.
Amechi said, "Through this framework, BoI aims to support businesses committed to sustainable practices, unlock access to blended and concessional capital, and advance national priorities such as climate resilience, job creation, gender inclusion, and export diversification. "It will further enable the bank to scale its impact across priority sectors including renewable energy, clean transportation, agro-processing, healthcare, education, and digital infrastructure."
Victoria Island.
"Thankfully, Lamido admitted that Tinubu played a significant role in NADECO. Indeed, Tinubu did more. He also backed Professor Wole Soyinka's NALICON, offering material resources to fuel the struggle.
"It is well-known that Tinubu played a leading role in the agitation against the June 12 annulment. Many NADECO leaders and journalists in exile and at home openly admitted that Tinubu sustained them and provided them with funds for the struggle.
"With his narrative, Lamido appeared confused about the role of NADECO. It was an offshoot of the June 12 crisis.
NADECO provided a platform to channel the struggle. Hitherto, all the resistance was left to civil rights groups, journalists, and a section of labour, such as NUPENG.
"It is thus disappointing that Alhaji Lamido, despite acknowledging Tinubu's NADECO role, would attempt to rewrite history for political reasons and being a member of the Coalition of the Disgruntled.
"We advise Lamido to check his facts before going on television to spread falsehoods. It does not help his image, and the coalition he belongs to engages in revisionism. Revisionism does not serve the cause of truth or our nation's interests.
"We do not want to believe that Alhaji Lamido suffers from what psychologists call tall poppy syndrome. However, the conclusion is inevitable as it appears that Lamido is envious of Tinubu's democratic credentials.
"The facts remain clear: President Tinubu was—and remains—a steadfast advocate for democracy, in contrast to the record of Lamido and others who capitulated in the face of military oppression and intimidation."
Lamido, had weekend, said Tinubu attempted to rewrite history by his recent rhetoric on June 12, even when though he was a staunch supporter of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (rtd), whose regime annulled the 1993 election, the presidency said it was actually Lamido and his allies, who traded the June 12 mandate.
Lamido, a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),
who affirmed his readiness to back any political arrangement that seeks to remove the current government from power in 2027, spoke on the Arise News television. He characterised the Tinubu administration as incompetent, accusing it of divisiveness, and betraying the spirit of democracy, for which the President now seeks to take the glory.
The former governor, however, deflected questions on whether he was willing to join the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), which some politicians were planning to register, promising to walk with his eyes wide open.
He stated that if there was going to be any alliance, it must be based on issues, including the security, and the prosperity of the nation, explaining that Nigeria must always come first. To him, it must be different from the 2014 coalition against the PDP, which he alleged was based on anger and hate.
“You see, I feel highly entertained by Tinubu's rhetoric, the way he's dramatising his own role in Nigeria’s democracy. Luckily, we're all alive. We were all there. I was in the middle of it. Tinubu became relevant and noticeable after Sani Abacha took over the government. Before then, he was in the senate, while I was the secretary of the party.
“And with due respect to him, he was part of those people who were supporting Babangida's annulment of June 12. He was part of it. His own mother, Hajia Mogaji from Lagos, was organising market women to come to Abuja to pledge support for Babangida. I'm saying this because it's simply history. I mean no harm. I don't mean to embarrass him. But you see, he was actively hand in gloves with Babangida.
“So when Tinubu today, after being Nigeria's president, decided to rewrite history or try to maybe deconstruct history, and then rewrite it, then it is very amusing because he was part of the Babangida support of June 12 (annulment). He was part of it. Now, it was only when Babangida took over the government that Tinubu then became our so-called activist of June 12,” Lamido opined. According to him, those who later emerged as arrowheads of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) were never part of the June 12 mandate restoration movement. “All of them who were in NADECO, where were they on June 11?” he asked.
Says oil sector inflows into Nigeria fell by $24bn in 10 Years Suggests pragmatism over regulatory
Points out signs of positive change under current leadership
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
Wood MacKenzie, a global energy research and consultancy firm, has suggested that for Nigeria to achieve President Bola Tinubu's ambitious plan of 3 million bpd and 12 bcfd of gas by 2030, the country will require $12 billion annually.
In a report on the state of play in the country's oil and gas sector, Woomac
highlighted that between 2014 and 2024, investment in the West African nation’s hydrocarbons slumped by $24 billion, having fallen from $29 billion to $5 billion between those years.
Richly endowed with resources, Nigeria, it pointed out, not so long ago was among the most important sources of oil and gas production for Big Oil.
However, with recurring challenges,
Woodmac stated that national liquids production has since fallen by 40 per cent from its 2005 peak to 1.6 million bpd currently, accelerated by the reallocation of capital towards lower-cost, lower-risk basins by the International Oil Companies (IOCs).
“Elected in 2023, in his role as Federal Minister of Petroleum Resources, President Tinubu has set ambitious new oil and gas production
targets – 3 million bpd of liquids and 12 bcfd of gas by 2030.
“A culture change has begun with sweeping changes to the board at national oil company NNPC, more supportive fiscal policies and a suite of new JV operators suggesting the ingredients to drive growth are finally falling into place. The big question is: will the industry deliver?
“Investment has suffered a steep
fall from a peak of $29 billion (real) in 2014 to just over $5 billion in 2024.
We believe the latter is the absolute minimum required merely to sustain current levels of production. But to achieve the president’s targets, spend needs to more than double to $12 billion a year immediately and continue growing for the rest of the decade.
“There are already signs that things are moving in the right direction.
culture of growth.
From its discussions with the oil sector players, Woodmac stressed that it identified several of the key areas the industry, and government, must focus on, hinged on collaboration, urgency and pragmatism.
Preliminary report blames Jos Disco for neglect TCN announces successful restoration of power supply
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) yesterday announced that it had begun investigation into the death of the Permanent Secretary, Special Duties and Regional Coordination, Gombe State, Mr. Yusuf Kulani, and four others in a case of electrocution.
Earlier, there were reports of an electrical accident at the Tudun Wada Pantami area of Gombe State, with five persons dead and 13 others receiving treatment in hospital, sparking outrage in the Riyel community area of the state.
The incident was linked to a snapped high-tension power line
that made contact with low-tension wires, leading to an uncontrolled surge of electricity sparks across the local distribution network.
On action taken so far by NEMSA, a statement in Abuja by the Head, Communications and Protocol Unit, Ama Umoren, noted that on getting the information, the Chief Executive Officer of the organisation, Aliyu Tukur, immediately ordered a thorough technical investigation of the incident.
Consequently, the statement said that a NEMSA technical team led by Tajudeen Alabi was immediately dispatched to the site on June 15, 2025, to investigate the incident in accordance with the NEMSA mandate
as contained in the Electricity Act 2023.
As for preliminary findings, it noted that eyewitness accounts and technical evaluations revealed that the incident was triggered by a structural failure of a high-tension (11kV) wooden cross-arm support, which led to the detachment of the red phase high-tension conductor.
“This conductor made direct contact with a low-voltage (400V) line below, causing a dangerous voltage surge into residential houses. The impact resulted in widespread electrical sparks, severe electric shocks, and the electrocution of five individuals.
“Several residents sustained varying degrees of injuries while
trying to disconnect their power supplies to their homes and electrical appliances including televisions, refrigerators, and meters which were extensively damaged.
“The investigation uncovered several systemic and infrastructurerelated issues: Use of aged, untreated/ deteriorated wooden cross arms in the distribution network. Absence of standard protective devices (such as circuit breakers) in consumer installations.
“Aged low-tension conductors, poorly maintained substations, and inadequate clearances between high-tension lines and residential structures,” the NEMSA statement said.
Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa
The European Union-funded Non Governmental Organisation (NGO), Stakeholders Democracy Network (SDN) in its bid to bridge the digital gender gap in the Niger Delta, has intensified its efforts with a roundtable policy review in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. The event was also an opportunity to present the draft ICT policy reforms by the Bayelsa state team led by its Steering Committee Chairman, Tariere Egbegi and Tari Okorotie, Technical
Adviser to the Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri.
Declaring the workshop open, the Deputy Programme Manager, SDN, Ifeoma Ndekwu, said recent research funded by the EU and implemented by the NGO showed a significant gap of about 11 per cent in gender digital gap in the Niger Delta. She noted that the workshop was part of the policy recommendation after the research, which mandated states in the region to design a digital ICT policies that are suited to the
special challenges and opportunities in each location.
"Let me start by saying that this project is funded by the European Union and implemented by stakeholders and Democracy network. Basically, we found out that there is an existing digital gender gap, around 11 per cent in the Niger Delta
“We are trying to see how we can bridge that gap; and in dong that we must have a gender responsive ICT policy to enforce things where we are implementing this project and Bayelsa
state happens to be one of them.
"The roundtable workshop is to gather key stakeholders within the state to review the draft ICT policy that has been developed through the support of the Ministry of Communication Science and Technology.
"The next plan of action as mentioned by the technical adviser to the governor is to have a larger engagement with more ministries departments and agencies within the state before it gets accented to by the state governor", she said.
Renaissance Africa Energy Company alone plans to invest $15 billion over five years, and we expect an uptick in activity by Oando and Seplat from their recently acquired assets. Shell has committed $5.5 billion at Bonga North and ExxonMobil could commit up to $10 billion on the Usan, Owowo and Erha fields,” Woodmac stated.
In the same vein, Woodmac emphasised that indigenous firms are producing more volumes than expected from their marginal fields, noting that even so, this group of companies now need to embrace a
“NNPC can’t do it alone, it will require collaboration to unlock the growth potential. All operators must bring forward their top opportunities and work programmes. A common understanding and line of sight to where the incremental volumes will come from is a priority. Only then can partnerships and investment unlock synergies and tackle bottlenecks that have eluded the industry in the past.
“With 2030 targets looming, there is no time to lose. Delays in sign-offs and overbearing regulatory burdens can no longer be tolerated. Incentives provided to the industry are a good start, but the fiscal system remains complex and Nigeria is competing in a buyers’ market,” the research firm added.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), has pledged to do everything needed to promote safety culture within the country, especially in the workplace.
Managing Director of the Fund, Mr. Oluwaseun Faleye, made the pledge when the President of the Institute of Safety Professionals in Nigeria, ISPON, Dr. Udezi Stephen, paid a courtesy visit to the NSITF Corporate Headquarters in Abuja,
A statement signed by NSITF
Deputy General Manager Corporate Affairs, Alex Mede, quoted the MD as saying that Fund and ISPON shared a mutual vision in the promotion of safety culture within Nigeria, particularly in the workplaces, and called for continued collaborations with ISPON.
He expressed delight at the opportunity to share ideas with the Institute and charged ISPON to mobilise its members to register in the Employee's Compensation Scheme of the NSITF and help promote it further.
Faleye thanked the ISPON Board
for the award which he accepted "on behalf of NSITF" and promised to wear the title "with the utmost responsibility."
He added the award was in recognition of the efforts of the collective staff of the Fund.
According to him, "It is important that we continue to collaborate, and continue to look for ways to deepen our collaboration further.
"We believe it's very critical that we also undertake a sort of symbiotic relationship that allows ISPON to promote ECS within its network.
“So, we really look forward to ISPON encouraging its members and affiliated organisations to not only subscribe, but to actively promote Employee Compensation Scheme across board."
The President of ISPON, Dr. Stephen, echoed the need to extend the collaboration between the two organisms in the area of training and certification of staff on Safety and in walk-through audit.
He praised Faleye for his exemplary leadership since he became the Managing Director of the NSITF.
Expresses deep concern over delay in activating ECOWAS standby force Hands over leadership to Sierra Leonean counterpart, Maada Bio, canvasses vigilance, unity, inclusive growth in region
President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, expressed hope that ongoing diplomatic engagements with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Republic would eventually lead to their return to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Tinubu also voiced concern over the slow pace of efforts to activate the ECOWAS Standby Force. He urged West African leaders to move swiftly from concept to reality in the collective fight against terrorism and transnational crimes.
The president made the assertions in his opening speech at the 67th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS in Abuja. It was one of his last acts as chairman of the 50-year-old regional
economic bloc.
He said his leadership of ECOWAS had done a lot to try to bring back the three defiant countries back to the fold, stressing that he remains optimistic his efforts would yield efforts soon.
Tinubu stated, "Under my chairmanship, I deployed all diplomatic means to engage and dialogue with our brothers in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. I am confident that before too long, they may return to the family.”
He emphasised the urgency of operationalising the force in the face of escalating insecurity across the sub-region.
The president stated, "ECOWAS Standby Force must move from concept to operational reality. I am a little bit worried about the slow pace of its activation, which is taking longer than desired."
UNICEF Mobilises 1,130 Men as ‘Fathers for Good Health’ in 7 LGAs in Bauchi
Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Bauchi Field Office has disclosed that it has mobilized, build capacity and support a total of 1,130 men who are members of Fathers for Good Health (F4H) in 113 Wards of Seven Local Government Areas in Bauchi State.
Similarly, the Fathers for Good Health Support group has been able to effectively mobilize a total of 109,444 children to be immunized with routine immunization and antigens in the seven local government areas where they are currently working.
Fathers for Good Health is a UNICEF-led initiative focused on engaging fathers in promoting positive health-seeking behaviors, particularly regarding childhood immunization.
The initiative seeks to leverage fathers' influence within their communities to encourage wider acceptance and uptake of vaccines and other essential healthcare services.
The disclosure was made yesterday by the UNICEF Bauchi Field Office Social Behaviour Change (SBC) Specialist, George Eki, while giving an update on the activities of the group so far, one year after it was introduced to the healthcare sector.
George Eki further disclosed that so far, the group has mobilized 9,252
communities in the 113 Wards of the seven local government areas across the state.
According to him, "UNICEF in collaboration with the Primary Healthcare Development Board, did a rapid assessment using the human center design approach and went to two LGAs namely: Misau and Ningi to find out why parents were not allowing their children to be vaccinated."
He added that: "It was quite interesting to find out some of the underlying reasons why some parents were not vaccinating their children, but many of the respondents, especially mothers, said that the power to give consent to vaccinate a child rest on the fathers.
"With that information, we came back, taking all that were said from the men, the community leaders, youths, women and decided to establish the Fathers for Good Health Support group."
George Eki added: "The Fathers for Good Health at the inception stage was kick-started with understanding why children in the community were not vaccinated. So, we did an assessment where we took some tools to profile all the households in Ningi and Misau, to know where the children who were not vaccinated are and also to know where the children under the age of one who started vaccination and stop along the way."
Tinubu stated that threats confronting the region were transnational, "driven by agile and dangerous networks that respect nobody's border.
"No single nation can, therefore, address these challenges alone. We must strengthen coordination, amplify political will, and prioritise a collective approach to secure it."
He highlighted major milestones during his leadership of the regional bloc, saying the completed ECOWAS Military Logistics Depot in Lungi, Sierra Leone, would play a critical role in providing equipment and other logistics to forces deployed by ECOWAS.
"Last February in Addis Ababa, Nigeria signed the Sixth Agreement with the African Union. With the depot's completion, Nigeria is committing itself to sea-lift and air-lift arrangements with ECOWAS," he said.
He called for deeper economic cooperation, empowerment of the private sector, and removal of trade barriers to unlock West Africa's potential.
Tinubu said, "Our intra-regional trade remains low, even as we possess the potential to be an economic powerhouse. We must create the enabling environment, empower the private sector, and create the conditions necessary for innovation to flourish."
He urged speedy implementation of key regional infrastructure projects, including the West African Gas Pipeline, West African Power Pool, and Abidjan–Lagos Corridor Highway, as catalysts for development and integration.
Tinubu handed over the chairmanship of the ECOWAS Authority
of Heads of State and Government to his Sierra Leonean counterpart, Julius Maada Bio, expressing confidence in the region's continued path towards peace, stability, and prosperity.
The ECOWAS Authority's 67th Ordinary Session closed with the symbolic handover of the Emblem to the incoming chair.
The Nigerian president said it was a profound honour and privilege to have led the esteemed body. He said he remained deeply humbled by the trust and support extended to him throughout his two-term tenure.
Tinubu stated, "As I now hand over the mantle of leadership to my great friend and dear brother, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, the new Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, I do so with a deep sense of fulfilment and optimism for the future of West Africa.
"I remain confident that with the continued cooperation of all its members, ECOWAS will scale greater heights in our collective pursuit of peace, security, stability, and prosperity for our people and our region."
Further reflecting on his tenure, Tinubu highlighted the complex political and security challenges the region had faced in recent years, while calling on leaders to remain committed to the evolving needs of West African citizens.
He said, "Let us deepen cooperation, uphold diplomatic principles, and foster inclusive growth that leaves no one behind, especially our youth, women, and vulnerable populations, who remain
central to the future of our region."
The president emphasised the need to preserve democratic values and ensure that political stability was not separated from economic development.
He declared, "Our organisation must continue to strike a fine balance between its core regional mandate of economic integration and the complex political, security, and governance challenges, including the preservation of democratic values in our region.
"Economic integration cannot be superimposed on an untenable political environment. That is why we must remain steadfast in our resolve to rise to these emerging challenges."
He commended the ECOWAS Commission, community institutions, and technical staff for their dedication and professionalism in supporting the Authority's work and organising a successful summit.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the region's shared mission and urged continued unity among member states.
"As you return to your respective countries, let us remain resolute in our shared mission to deepen our integration, protect our people, and build a prosperous, secure, and united West Africa," he said.
In his acceptance speech, Bio, the newly elected Chairman of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, outlined four key priorities.
He pledged to lead a renewed, people-centred, and action-oriented ECOWAS in the face of unprecedented challenges and opportunities for the West African region.
The Sierra Leonean president said his leadership would focus on restoring constitutional order and deepening democracy, revitalising regional security cooperation, unlocking economic integration, and building institutional credibility.
He stated, "We must engage transitional governments constructively and support member states in building stronger democratic institutions rooted in the rule of law.
"We must overhaul our collective security architecture—from intelligence sharing to rapid response capabilities—to confront new threats with unity and resolve.
"The ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, regional infrastructure, and crossborder value chains must become engines of job creation, trade, and resilience, especially for our women and youth.
"ECOWAS must reform itself to become more transparent, efficient, and responsive to the needs of its people. This is how we will rebuild trust in regional cooperation."
Bio commended Tinubu for laying a solid foundation of regional dialogue, economic recovery, and peacebuilding.
"I am humbled to build upon the strong foundation you have established," he said, thanking Tinubu for his "experience and leadership".
Acknowledging the complexities of the current moment, the Sierra Leonean leader stated that West Africa stood at a crossroads, grappling with terrorism, illicit arms flow, political instability, and transnational crime, particularly in the Sahel and coastal states.
James Emejo in Abuja
The Chief Executive, Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Dr. Tayo Aduloju, has emphasised the need to scale up the country's exports and unlock investments across the West African region.
Speaking at the West Africa Economic Summit (WAES) 2025, with the theme, "Unlocking Trade and Investment Opportunities in the Region”, which held over the weekend in Abuja, he shared bold and practical insights on strengthening Nigeria’s and West Africa’s role in global trade.
Aduloju, highlighted the significant infrastructure gaps across the region that continue to hinder seamless intra-African trade, adding that “It remains easier to trade outside the continent than within it".
Commenting during a pivotal panel session titled, “Global Competition: Scaling Exports via Industrialisation and Port Reforms,” the NESG chief executive said, "We must address infrastructure inefficiencies and align the interpretation of trade protocols across borders to unlock regional commerce and competitiveness.”
He further stressed that beyond policies, a stronger narrative must be built around Africa’s trade and investment potential, calling for renewed investments in Special Economic Zones and the development of regional trade corridors, which he described as critical to industrial growth and export diversification.
He stressed the importance of human capital development, noting that Nigeria’s youthful population can only become a true competitive advantage if supported with the right digital and technical skills.
In a statement, Aduloju said, “We
must invest in the next generation of innovators, builders, and digital workers,” advocating for targeted skills development as a foundation for sustainable industrialisation.
In addition, he underscored NESG’s strategic approach, identifying public-private partnerships (PPPs) as essential to identifying and addressing sector-specific infrastructure and industrial gaps.
He urged the region to explore innovative financing mechanisms, including diaspora engagement, to mobilise capital for transformative growth.
State police, LG autonomy, diaspora voting, women representation top agenda Independent candidacy, political party/traditional institution reforms, state creation on horizon
Sunday Aborisade in Abuja
In what may become the most transformative review of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution since the return to civil rule in 1999, the senate has unveiled 60 bills on an expansive reform agenda aimed at restructuring governance, deepening democracy, and addressing long-standing national agitations.
The Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, chaired by Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, is set to hold simultaneous two-day Zonal Public Hearings across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones on July 4th and 5th, 2025.
The hearings, according to a statement yesterday by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Office of the Deputy Senate President, Ismail Mudashir, will engage citizens and stakeholders on the over 60 proposed amendments, 40 of which are meant to create 40 states The bills, ranging from the establishment of state police and local government autonomy to diaspora voting and electoral reforms, are aimed at reshaping the polity.
State Police Back on Front Burner Amid Rising Insecurity At the forefront of the national conversation is the push for state police - an issue re-energized by Nigeria’s
worsening security challenges.
The bill seeks to decentralize policing by empowering states to manage internal security through constitutionally recognized state security outfits and coordinated State Security Councils.
Security experts and state governments have backed the measure as a timely solution to the limitations of the current centralized policing model.
Local Govt Autonomy: A Bid to Restore Grassroots Democracy
Equally central to the reform package is a proposal to grant full autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.
The bill aims to establish local councils as the constitutionally guaranteed third tier of government, with secured tenure, democratic governance, and financial independence.
A complementary proposal recommends the creation of a National Local Government Electoral Commission (NALGEC), to end decades of politically manipulated local elections currently managed by state electoral commissions.
Diaspora Voting, Independent Candidacy to Expand Democratic Space
A bill tagged SB 255 proposes
In order to promote notable impact in advancing their field, insolvency practitioners in the country have been admonished on mastering various Acts, like Companies and Allied Matters (CAMA), Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA), and the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).
Understanding of these various Acts would deepen competence and align them with global best practices, as Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria (BRIPAN) has revealed that they are working on bespoke training for Judges and key regulatory institutions.
Speaking at a Night Out and Induction Ceremony held in Lagos recently, the President/Chair of Council, Business Recovery And Insolvency Practitioners of Nigeria (BRIPAN), Mr. Chimezie Ihekweazu (SAN), urged the
inductees to give attention to Mastery of CAMA, BOFIA and AMCON acts respectively.
He said the event marks not only a celebration but a reaffirmation of their shared commitment to excellence in insolvency practice.
Ihekweazu noted the association's engagements across board in the country have enhanced mutual understanding of insolvency processes and encouraged more consistent judicial approaches to insolvency matters.
According to him, “Over the past year, BRIPAN has achieved several significant milestones. We successfully conducted multiple membership training programs focused on recent developments in insolvency law, cross-border insolvency, business rescue strategies, and ethical responsibilities of practitioners.
“These sessions were designed to deepen professional competence and align our members with global best practices.
enfranchising Nigerians in the diaspora - an estimated 15 million citizens - by enabling them to vote in future elections.
This landmark move could significantly broaden Nigeria’s democratic footprint globally.
Another pivotal bill seeks to amend the constitution to allow for independent candidacy at all electoral levels, from local councils to the presidency, in a move designed to reduce political party monopoly and increase electoral competition.
In a major step toward gender parity, the committee will also consider a bill
to reserve additional legislative seats for women in both the national and state assemblies.
This proposal is part of broader efforts to institutionalize inclusive governance and close the gender gap in politics.
Over 20 bills focus on reforming the judiciary, including proposals for fixed timelines for delivering judgments, increased appellate court capacity, and financial autonomy for federal and state courts.
Crucially, a bill also seeks to eliminate executive influence in judicial appointments and allow judges elevated
to higher courts to complete pending judgments in their former roles.
Power Devolution and Fiscal Federalism
In a decisive shift toward true federalism, several bills propose the devolution of key powers, such as labour and shipping, from the Exclusive to the Concurrent Legislative Listgiving states increased legislative and administrative powers.
State Creation and Regional Identity
Over 40 memoranda for new states, including Ijebu, Katagum, Adada,
Atlantic City, and Anim, among others, are under consideration.
The proposals reflect persistent demands for regional representation and development equity, especially among historically marginalized areas.
Describing the exercise as a “national conversation,” Senator Barau, in the statement, emphasized the importance of broad-based public engagement in determining the future of the nation.
“This process is not just a legal exercise - it is a national dialogue. We are opening the doors of reform to every Nigerian, from civil society to community leaders, from the professional class to everyday citizens,” he said.
IsDB Mobilises US$1.2bn from Capital Markets with Second Public Sukuk Issuance of 2025
Sunday Okobi
The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has announced the mobilisation of US$1.2 billion through a benchmark Sukuk issuance in the capital markets.
The bank stated the transaction was successfully issued amid a volatile market period, demonstrating IsDB’s long-standing presence and strength in the US$ Sukuk market.
IsDB, rated Aaa/AAA/AAA by S&P, Moody’s, and Fitch (all with Stable Outlook), priced the 5-year Trust Certificates under its US$25 billion Trust Certificate Issuance Programme.
The Vice President (Finance) and CFO of IsDB, Dr. Zamir Iqbal, in a statement, said: “Despite a particularly volatile
market, we are extremely pleased with the successful close of our latest Sukuk issuance, which was upsized from US$1billion to US$1.2billion.
“This outstanding result is a testament to the strong confidence investors have in IsDB’s creditworthiness and our vital mission to foster sustainable development across our member countries. The proceeds will be instrumental in funding our strategic initiatives and supporting impactful projects globally.”
He noted the Sukuk transaction is its second US dollar benchmark issuance this year, following significant milestones achieved in 2024, which saw three successful public benchmark transactions across the Euro and USD markets, and the bank crossing the US$ 50 billion mark
in total Sukuk issuances since it began issuing in 2003.
“The Joint Lead Managers for this issuance were BBVA, BMO Capital Markets, Citi, Emirates NBD Capital, Goldman Sachs International, NATIXIS, Societe Generale and Standard Chartered Bank.
“The Sukuk proceeds will be utilised to continue the bank’s support for project financing that delivers socio-economic growth across its 57 member countries and Muslim communities globally,” he stated.
IsDB chief further stated the 5-year Sukuk transaction was announced to the market on June 16, with Initial Pricing Thoughts (IPTs) at US SOFR Mid Swap (SOFR MS) plus 58 basis points (bps) area.
They added that despite competing
Organisers of the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS) yesterday announced Justice Mary Ukaego Odili, retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria and a renowned figure in Nigeria’s judicial history, as Chair of its Advisory Committee for the 2025 edition of the awards.
The statement by the Founder of NEAPS, Ms. Mariam Mohammed, also announced Mr. Ako Abbah, an Assistant Director in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), as Secretary of the NEAPS 2025 Advisory Committee.
Other members of the NEAPS
2025 Advisory Committee are Yemi Candide-Johnson (SAN) Senior Partner, Strachan Partners; Ibrahim Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, The Presidency; Shaka Momodu, Editor, THISDAY Newspaper; Stella Din Jacob, Director of News, TVC News; Musikilu Mojeed, Editor-inChief, Premium Times; and Yemi Adebowale, Journalist/Columnist and Chairman/CEO Storkgate and Associates.
Ms. Mohammed in her press statement said: “The NEAPS 2025 Advisory Committee, comprising prominent leaders from various sectors, was assembled to ensure that
supply from peers across tenors and heightened geopolitical crises, investor demand was supportive from the outset, resulting in strong Indications of Interest (IOIs) that exceeded USD 1.35 billion.
According to the bank, “The order book officially opened the following morning on Tuesday June 17, with guidance reiterated at SOFR MS plus 58 bps area.
“Investor orders continued to grow and held onto the orderbook, allowing the bank to set the final spread at SOFR MS plus 57 bps, translating into an overall profit rate of 4.246 percent payable on a semi-annual basis and priced at par. The high-quality investor base enabled the bank to upsize the transaction from an initially planned USD 1.0 billion to US$ 1.2 billion.
the awards continue to reflect the highest standards of transparency, merit, inclusiveness and national relevance. Its role is instrumental in maintaining the prestige and credibility of the awards.”
The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), continues to collaborate with The Best Strategic PR (TBS) for the annual NEAPS awards.
Now in its third year, NEAPS provides a national recognition platform that celebrates individuals and institutions demonstrating exceptional performance, integrity, and innovation in public service.
It also promotes a culture of
accountability, inspires ethical leadership, and highlights efforts that significantly contributes to national development and the common good. Through these awards, NEAPS encourages best practices in governance and public administration and fosters public trust by honoring those who have shown measurable impact in service to the nation.
The maiden edition of the NEAPs Awards held in October 2022, at the State House Conference Center, Abuja, honoured 44 Nigerians, with the then President Muhammadu Buhari presenting the awards.
L-R: Managing Director/CEO, BUA Cement Plc, Engr. Yusuf Binji; Director, I.C.O. Odigwe and Son Nigeria Limited, Odigwe Chinwe; Chief Executive Officer, I.C.O. Odigwe and Sons Nigeria Limited /2nd Best Customer Award winner, Mr. Ndubuisi Odigwe; Chief Executive Officer, Chinedu and Sons Nigeria. Limited/Best Distributor of BUA Cement, High Chief Chinedu Ezenyili; Director, Chinedu and Sons Nigeria Limited, Ezenyili N. Martha; and Chairman, Board of Directors, BUA Cement Plc, Abdul Samad Rabiu, during the BUA Cement Night of Dinner and Awards held in Lagos ...recently
Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
Nigeria flag carrier Air Peace is set to commence direct flight operations to London Heathrow Airport from Abuja on October 26, 2025.
This landmark achievement follows sustained diplomatic efforts by the Federal Government of Nigeria to enforce reciprocity in international air travel agreements.
The breakthrough comes in the wake of a strongly worded letter
dated August 1, 2024, written by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo to the UK Secretary of State for Transport, Rt. Hon. Louise Haigh, MP.
In the correspondence, Keyamo demanded the immediate allocation of landing slots at Heathrow for Air Peace or risk reciprocal action, including a potential review of British Airways and Virgin Atlantic’s access to Lagos and Abuja airports.
The minister reiterated that Nigeria
was only asserting its rights under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between both nations, which guarantees reciprocal access and fair treatment for designated flag carriers.
After months of negotiations and firm diplomatic engagement, the UK authorities acceded to Nigeria’s demand, granting Air Peace the long-awaited Heathrow slot.
Keyamo, in a statement on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood,
said: "This is not just a win for Air Peace, but a significant diplomatic milestone for Nigeria.
"It sends a clear message that we are serious about enforcing the terms of our bilateral agreements and protecting the commercial interests of our indigenous carriers,” Keyamo said.
He further added that the move aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places high priority on creating
Intercepts Bahrain, Australia-bound Loud, Cocaine consignment
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
A 43-year-old female make-up artist, Adekoya Adebukonla, who claimed to be travelling to India for a fibroid surgery, has been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Lagos after the walls of her bag was found to be factory fitted with 2.2 kilogrammes of cocaine.
A statement by the spokesman of NDLEA, Femi Babafemi said the suspect was arrested last Monday based on credible intelligence.
Babafemi said the suspect who was under surveillance was allowed to check in her luggage and arrested at the point of boarding her Qatar Airways flight to
India via Doha, when her luggage was searched, two large parcels of cocaine weighing 2.2 kilogrammes were found concealed in the walls of the suitcase she was carrying.
Babafemi said in her statement, Adekoya claimed she embarked on the trip for financial benefits but under the pretext of going to India for surgery to remove fibroid from her stomach.
He said further investigation revealed the suspect was recruited and funded by a drug baron currently at large, Akeem Adekanbi who owns Rockford Hotel located in Sango area of Ogun State while he resides at Igbe Laara in Igbogbo area of Ikorodu, Lagos State.
Babafemi said at a courier company in Lagos, NDLEA operatives of the Directorate of Operation and General Investigation
(DOGI) last Thursday intercepted a shipment of sewn female dresses containing 1.3 kilogrammes Loud, a strong strain of cannabis, going to Bahrain, while at another courier firm the previous day, Wednesday, operatives uncovered 850 grammes of cocaine concealed in cloth hangers heading to Australia.
In Bauchi State, NDLEA officers acting on credible intelligence last Monday arrested the duo of Ibrahim Galadima, 37, and Ibrahim Muhammed, 28, along Bauchi-Darazo Road.
A total of 1,013,000 pills of opioids namely: tramadol, diazepam and exol-5 were recovered from them, while 38-yearold Bishir Isyaku was nabbed last Tuesday at Gwargwaje along Kaduna - Zaria expressway with 14.2 kilogrammes skunk, a strain of cannabis, concealed in two
sacks of charcoal and seven cartons of rubber solution weighing 198 kilogrammes. NDLEA operatives in Abuja last Wednesday arrested Murtala Adamu, Ahmed Ismai'l and four others during raid operations at Karu Abbattoir and Torabora areas of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). 6.9 kilogrammes skunk and 59 grammes of methamphetamine were recovered from them.
In Kano, NDLEA officers on patrol along Zaria-Kano Road last Thursday arrested Umar Hamisu, 19, and Dahiru Abdullahi, 32, with 56.2 kilogrammes skunk, while another suspect Obiwuru Henry, 27, was nabbed same day with 23,720 capsules of tramadol and 1,400 ampoules of pentazocine along Jaba Road, Fagge Local Government Area.
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Abubakar Kana, weekend praised UStrained physician Dr. Helen Mbakwe for launching Nigeria's first outpatient infusion and arthritis management center in Abuja. The facility marks a significant milestone in the country's medical landscape, particularly in addressing chronic pain and autoimmune diseases.
The FCT Minister commended Dr. Mbakwe for her innovative approach to healthcare.
Represented by Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, he noted: "There is no documented review on the prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis in Abuja or northern Nigeria and therefore highlighted the need for such a center."
On his part, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Dr. Dr. Abubakar Kana, described the center as a imely intervention in reversing medical brain drain.
His words: "Helen has given us an 'anti-Japa' story, investing in our healthcare system and challenging other medical professionals."
Speaking earlier, Dr. Mbakwe emphasised the transformative power of infusion therapy, stating, "It's not just treatment, it's a lifeline."
According to her, "The Frontline Infusion and Arthritis Outpatient Infusion Medical Facility offers cutting-edge infusion therapies, non-surgical treatments, and personalised management plans for arthritis and other chronic conditions.
Dr. Mbakwe dedicated the milestone to her family, patients, and faith, saying, "This center is a testament to what's possible when compassion meets innovation.
"The facility is poised to become a regional hub for arthritis and infusion therapy in West Africa," she opined.
The center also introduces Nigeria's first outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) program for antibiotic-resistant infections, utilizing advanced multi-dosing devices for precise delivery of intravenous antibiotics.
an enabling environment for Nigerian businesses to thrive globally.
“My dear compatriots, after many months of diplomatic exchanges and shuttles, insisting on our reciprocal rights under our Bilateral Air Services Agreement,
"We are pleased to announce that Nigeria has finally secured the coveted Heathrow slot for one of our flag carriers, Air Peace,” the Minister said.
Air Peace had earlier launched its inaugural direct flight from Lagos to London Gatwick Airport in March
2024, marking its entry into the highly competitive UK aviation market. With the move to Heathrow - one of the world’s busiest and most prestigious airports - the airline is expected to significantly expand its international footprint and provide Nigerian travelers with greater convenience and connectivity. This development marks a new chapter in Nigeria-UK aviation relations and sets a precedent for stronger enforcement of bilateral agreements to benefit national carriers.
In order to promote notable impact in advancing their field, insolvency practitioners in the country have been admonished on mastering various Acts, like Companies and Allied Matters (CAMA), Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA), and the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).
Understanding of these various Acts would deepen competence and align them with global best practices, as Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria (BRIPAN) has revealed that they are working on bespoke training for Judges and key regulatory institutions.
Speaking at a Night Out and Induction Ceremony held in Lagos recently, the President/Chair of Council, Business Recovery And Insolvency Practitioners of Nigeria (BRIPAN), Mr. Chimezie Ihekweazu (SAN), urged the inductees to give attention to Mastery of CAMA, BOFIA and AMCON acts respectively.
He said the event marks not only a celebration but a reaffirmation of their shared commitment to excellence in insolvency practice. Ihekweazu noted the association's engagements across board in the country have enhanced mutual understanding of insolvency processes and encouraged more consistent judicial approaches to insolvency matters.
According to him, “Over the past year, BRIPAN has achieved several significant milestones. We successfully conducted multiple membership training programs focused on recent developments in insolvency law, cross-border insolvency, business rescue strategies, and ethical responsibilities of practtioners.
“These sessions were designed
to deepen professional competence and align our members with global best practices.
“To our new inductees, welcome to BRIPAN, uphold the highest standards. Your decisions can reshape the destiny of companies, employees, and creditors alike. As you are inducted today, I admonish you to gain mastery of CAMA, BOFIA and AMCON acts respectively.
“In addition to these, we are currently working on bespoke training for judges and key regulatory institutions, designed to deepen institutional understanding in insolvency matters.
“We are also actively planning joint training that will focus on Arbitration and Insolvency, as well as tailored sessions for Registrars of Court, with the goal of harmonizing practice and interpretation.
“Through targeted courtesy visits to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, we have strengthened the relationship between the Bench and the insolvency bar.
“These engagements have enhanced mutual understanding of insolvency processes and encouraged more consistent judicial approaches to insolvency matters.”
On the public sector collaboration, Ihekweazu said: “their engagements with key ministries and government agencies have led to stronger partnerships in promoting sustainable insolvency regimes, especially in the context of economic reform and debt recovery frameworks.”
However, he stressed BRIPAN continued active involvement in the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) to contribute Nigeria's perspective to global discussions on cross-border insolvency cooperation.
Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com
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The judiciary including legal practitioners would do well to sustain the legacies of the former Chief Justice of Nigeria, late Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais beyond naming roads, buildings after him, writes Alex Enumah.
Having spent nearly four decades on the bench; 27 years of which was on the apex court in Nigeria’s judiciary and 11 years as the number one judge in the land, no doubt it can be said that, Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, “came, saw and conquered”.
Besides holding the title of the longest serving Justice on the bench of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, as well as the second longest serving CJN, Justice Uwais left his imprint on the democratic and judicial sands of times, which would be remembered for a very long time.
Besides, his legacies should not just be sustained by both the bar and bench but, should serve as a compass in the pursuit of justice particularly in a time like this when the credibility and regard for the judiciary is daily fading away.
Born on June 12, 1936, the late Justice Uwais consciously and unconsciously toe the part of destiny and calling, not just into the legal profession but on that enviable office of a representative of the Almighty God in the dispensation of justice. This role as simple as it may seem is not an all comers affairs or that of any law graduate who has been called to the Nigerian Bar. It is an understatement to say that the call to the bench is a special calling only for men with integrity, a deep sense of justice, courage, fearless, fairness irrespective of who is involved and ability to speak truth to power.
While no man can be perfect except the Almighty God, Justice Uwais to the best of his ability through his conduct and judgments delivered to a larger extent reflected the high standards of the calling of a Justice of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The late CJN was called to the Bar by the Middle Temple, London, in 1963 after graduating from the University of London. Justice Uwais served as a State Counsel and Senior State Counsel (1966-1970), before his appointment as a Judge of the High Court, and later Chief Judge, of Kaduna State (1973-1976). In 1977, he was appointed a Justice of the Court of Appeal, and in 1979 as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. In 1995, he was appointed Chief Justice of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Chairman of the National Judicial Council.
Justice Uwais had served as Chairman, Nigerian Body of Benchers (1993-1994), and as Chairman, Board of Governors of the National Judicial Institute of Nigeria (1995- 2006). He also chaired various panels including the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Awards of Contracts by the Military Government of North Central State (1976); the Jimeta Disturbances Tribunal, Gongola State of Nigeria (1984); and a Commonwealth Member of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the deaths of senior army personnel, Sri Lanka (1993). He was the Honorary President of the World Jurist Association, Washington D.C; Honorary Fellow of the Society for Advanced Legal Studies, London; and a Member of the Board of Trustees, Global Legal Information Network Foundation (GLIN), Washington D.C. He was Chairman of the Nigerian Electoral Reform Committee (2007-2008); and was appointed Chancellor of Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina, Katsina State in 2011. These and so many of his successes were reeled out on June 6, 2025 and has continued since the news of his death broke out. A lot of people see him as a jurist who served Nigeria with distinction, using his exalted office of CJN to preach unity, just as he delivered justice to those deserving and promoted integrity on the
bench.
Former Vice-President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, in a tribute observed that late Justice Uwais solidified the current democratic dispensation through some of his landmark judgments especially in electoral and constitutional matters.
According to the former VP, the Uwais-led judiciary resolved “far-reaching constitutional questions that demanded intellectual clarity and institutional courage”, adding that, “Justice Uwais rose to that moment with principled resolve. Without drama or personal posturing, he insisted that the Constitution–not political convenience—must always prevail”.
Among the cases Osinbajo referenced was that of the AG Ondo State v. AG Federation (2002), where the court was called upon to resolve whether State governments could lawfully sue the Federal Government over constitutional disputes.
“When Lagos State challenged federal authority over urban development and physical planning, the question that arose was who truly controls land use and plan -
ning within a State’s territory, especially where federal lands are involved?
“In AG Lagos State v. AG Federation (2003), the Uwais-led Court held that the State government retains exclusive legislative and executive authority over urban and regional planning, even in respect of federal land located within its boundaries.
“The federal government, the Court ruled, must obtain necessary development permits from the state in accordance with its planning laws — an important assertion of territorial autonomy.
“The boundaries of fiscal federalism were tested on the issue of ownership of oil revenues derived from offshore wells.
In AG Federation v. AG Abia State (No. 2) (2002), the Court determined that offshore natural resources — particularly those beyond the 200 nautical-mile limit, belonged not to the littoral states but to the Federation as a whole.
“This decision placed constitutional boundaries on resource control claims while paving the way for the derivation formula to be refined in subsequent fiscal arrangements”.
It was Osinbajo’s submission that Uwais left an enduring and transformative legacy in the judicial and democratic spheres of Nigeria. He concluded that the judgments delivered by the Uwais court will “continue to shape Nigeria’s democratic journey
Justice Uwais left his imprint on the democratic and judicial sands of times, which would be remembered for a very long time. Besides, his legacies should not just be sustained by both the bar and bench but, should serve as a compass in the pursuit of justice particularly in a time like this when the credibility and regard for the judiciary is daily fading away.
and will remain beacons of principled adjudication for generations to come”. He added that, “He will be remembered not only as the longest-serving Justice of the Supreme Court, but as one who laid critical foundational stones in the evolving legal architecture of a true federal republic.”
Similarly, current CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun in a statement described the late Mohammed Uwais as a towering figure in Nigeria’s legal and judicial history, and an erudite jurist, visionary reformer, and statesman whose contributions to the development of constitutional law, judicial independence, and democratic governance will forever remain etched in the annals of our national life.
According to her, the late CJN distinguished himself by his unwavering commitment to justice, courage in the defence of the rule of law, and the clarity and scholarship of his judgments. “His post-retirement service, including chairing the Electoral Reform Committee, further affirmed his deep love for country and passion for institutional integrity”, she added.
While extending her heartfelt condolences to the Uwais family, the Nigerian judiciary, and the nation at large, Justice Kekere-Ekun remarked that the life and legacy of the longest serving Supreme Court Justice will continue to inspire generations of judges, lawyers, and public servants.
To Professor Mike Ozekhome (SAN), Uwais was not just a judge, “He was the Judge; a Judge’s Judge”. Ozekhome claimed that Justice Uwais as a CJN came drumming a new rhythm into the judiciary. “Law was not for theatrics. Law to him, was a sacred text, precise, divine, unyielding. A thing to be revered, not wielded like a cudgel. He did not just apply laws. He understood their soul.
“Calm with penetrating eyes and sharp wit, Uwais was a pleasure to appear before at the apex court. And I did so many times. He would never harass nor talk down on a counsel, not even junior ones. His humility and respect for the Bar were legendary. There was a certain meticulousness to his rulings, an almost surgical devotion to jurisprudence. He would dance between the lines of legislation, looking out for justice, with a clarity and erudition that reminded one of sunlight on steel. And he had the rare gift of seeing the implications, not just the letter, but the heartbeat of the law. With him, a lawyer could easily know the outcome of his case based on available precedents”, Ozekhome said.
Like most observers, Ozekhome pointed out that Uwais would forever be remembered for the courageous reforms his committee introduced in 2007, when he chaired the Presidential Committee on Electoral Reforms. According to the senior lawyer, Nigeria’s democracy was hemorrhaging. “Elections that brought in Yar’Adua as president had been marred by fraud, violence and brazen manipulation. And like the prophet who warns his people not out of anger but out of love, the now late Justice Uwais stepped forward and accepted the challenge. The committee’s recommendations were not timid revisions. They were seismic. Audacious. Brave. Revolutionary.They proposed unbundling of INEC and to emerge from its stable, three brand-new commissions to handle Electoral Offences, Constituency Delimitation, and Political Party Registration.
NOTE:
In a chilling replay of unrelenting violence, the Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State came under siege between the night of 13 June and early hours of 14 June 2025. Armed men, believed to be herdsmen, unleashed terror on sleeping families—burning homes, slaughtering residents, and reducing an entire community to ruin. With nearly 200 lives lost and survivors left traumatised, Esther Oluku writes that the massacre had reignited national outrage and intensified demands for justice, security, and lasting peace in Nigeria’s most beleaguered farming heartland
Between 10pm on 13 June and the early hours of 14 June 2025, the Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State was once again plunged into chaos and bloodshed. Armed men, alleged to be herdsmen, stormed homes and market stalls where defenceless men, women, and children were fast asleep. What followed was one of the most brutal massacres the state has witnessed—victims were butchered, shot, and burnt. The death toll is speculated to be close to 200.
As the community reels under a blanket of grief and disbelief, survivors are trying to rebuild their lives from the ashes of devastation. Though the loss remains palpable, the government, security agencies, and victims themselves are engaging in dialogue to forge a path back to peace and a semblance of normalcy.
A Survivor’s Pain
“My brothers and other family members were with me in the store. When I heard the shootings, I told them that we should leave, but my half-brother laughed, asking if I was scared of bullets. He said he would lock the doors with the women and children. That is how I escaped with my two wives. My other younger brother in the provision store was killed along with my half-brother, our wives, and children. They shot the door multiple times, forced it open, and shot him dead,” recounted Terhemba Iormba.
Of the eleven members of the Iormba family who took refuge in their shops that night, only three survived—Terhemba himself, his first wife Mtire, and his second wife Elizabeth. His other wives, Apam and Philomena; his sister Mgbetsan; younger brother Matthew; child Kumawuese; half-brother Akaama; and Akaama’s eight-year-old daughter were all reduced to ashes.
A successful farmer and businessman, Terhemba lost more than just loved ones. He watched his life’s work disintegrate in a matter of hours—1,000 bags of rice, 140 bags of beni seed, 540 bags of guinea corn, 70 bags of soybeans, 30 bags of maize, four mattresses, two motorcycles, two wheelbarrows, a power tiller, and two shops and warehouses filled with goods worth an estimated ₦3 million. Also destroyed was ₦500,000 in cash and 200 crates of beer, along with a refrigerator.
Many of these items, he noted, belonged to other traders and farmers who had stored them in his warehouses for safekeeping. With this loss, Terhemba, like countless others, has returned to zero—emotionally, mentally, financially, and psychologically.
The Toll of Violence
This attack, executed while most victims were asleep or paralysed with shock, is among the most inhumane and devastating carried out by
suspected herdsmen in recent memory. Bodies were burnt beyond recognition. While some managed to escape, the memories and trauma remain.
With nearly 200 fatalities and numerous others wounded, residents fear this may be just one more episode in the long series of killings that have plagued the state for over two decades. Survivors have been relocated to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, where a new challenge has emerged: insufficient resources to address their needs.
“I came here when herdsmen attacked Yelewata. The governor told us to come here—that he would take care of us. We are hungry. They brought food but have not given it to us, and the rations barely feed one person. We share what we have. As the resources are insufficient, we’ve decided to return to Yelewata and fend for ourselves,” said Nancy Ugbir.
A History of Bloodshed
The Yelewata massacre is not isolated. Earlier in June, Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia confirmed that 23 people were killed in Apa and Gwer West local government areas. In February, five people were killed in Okpomaju village, and 19 more in Kwande.
On 3 April, Fulani gunmen attacked a Benue Links bus, killing two and abducting 13. Another 72 were killed in Ukum near Zaki Biam, and in April and May, multiple killings were recorded in Otukpo Local Government Area. Just this week again, they marauding herdsmen struck again and left blood in its wake. Farmer-herder conflicts are not
new. A study by Cletus Famous Nwankwo in Science Direct titled “From Ejecting the Herds to Hidden Dangers” links the violence to changing socio-economics and commercial farming, land competition, and climate change. These pressures often lead to the displacement of farmers, creating ungoverned spaces.
“Ungoverned spaces, characterised by weak governance, violence, and insecurity, pose significant national and international security threats,” Nwankwo argued. These areas, he said, became breeding grounds for criminal activity due to state weakness.
“In northern Nigeria, inadequate forest governance enables criminal activities, including cattle rustling, kidnapping, and armed robbery. Though ungoverned spaces are not the sole cause, socio-economic dynamics among pastoralists contribute significantly to these conflicts,” he added.
Benue’s anti-open grazing law, while aimed at protecting farmers, has further escalated tensions, with herders responding through violent attacks.
Speaking on Arise TV, Governor Alia said, “The river is not too far by that axis. We understand that they came in through the water.” This points to a strategic exploitation of weakly governed natural corridors, underlining the complex and shifting dynamics of the conflict.
Religious Undertones
The Director of Communications of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, Rev. Fr. Patrick Alumuku, highlighted another disturbing dimension: religion.
“With herders being Muslims and farmers being Christians, these persistent attacks could be a calculated jihad towards conquering Christian settlements and converting them,” he warned.
Government Response and Presidential Visit
Five days after the incident and zero silence from the presidency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu finally visited Makurdi to commiserate with the victims, calling for reinforced security and justice. Although he held a stakeholders meeting, he however failed to reach the victims of the massacre, citing the rains and bad roads.
However, at the stakeholders meeting, he charged “I expect there should be an arrest of those criminals. Police, I hope your men are alert. How come no arrest has been made? Get those criminals.”
He urged Nigerians to embrace peace: “We now have to share and accommodate. We must change that attitude of hate… It must reflect in everything we do.”
Governor Alia echoed the president’s sentiments, saying, “We have the assurances of their support. We now have increased security teams. It remains our prayer and resolve that this kind of thing doesn’t happen again.”
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher
Musa, pledged action: “We are going all out… We want this to be the last one that will happen”, while Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reaffirmed the police’s commitment: “We are committed to fighting this battle and winning this war.”
Allegations of Genocide
In the face of such chilling deaths, the Paramount Ruler of the Tiv nation, HRM Prof. James Ayatse, was emphatic: “This is a full-scale genocidal invasion and land-grabbing campaign by herder terrorists. It is not learning to live with neighbours. It is war.”
He lamented the politicisation of the crisis: “What has Benue done to deserve this? We appeal to you to end the genocide and the insecurity across Nigeria.”
Terhemba Iormba stressed the need for security. “This conflict didn’t start now. It’s been over 15 years. They’ve chased me from my home. I now sleep in the market. If there was security, the herdsmen wouldn’t get away with this.”
Another respondent, Francis, pointed to an imbalance in power: “When they come with weapons, we have nothing to defend ourselves. The herders fear only the security operatives.”
To find a lasting peace, President Tinubu has established a Peace Committee. Members include former governors Gen. Atom Kpera (rtd.), George Akume, Gabriel Suswam, and Samuel Ortom; the Paramount Ruler of Tiv Nation, HRM Prof. James Ayatse; and the Ochidoma, HRM Dr. John Elaigwu.
Governor Alia appealed for a special intervention fund: “While we mourn and rebuild, we urge the Federal Government to establish a special intervention fund for communities affected by these incessant attacks.”
Such a fund, he said, would support the rehabilitation of displaced persons, the reconstruction of homes and infrastructure, and ongoing humanitarian relief.
For the survivors of Yelewata, life will never be the same. Amid the ruins of their homes and the ashes of their loved ones, they are left to grapple not just with grief, but with the overwhelming task of rebuilding from nothing. Children who once played in the courtyards now huddle in makeshift shelters. Farmers who fed entire communities have become beggars in IDP camps. Yet, even in their devastation, they speak with unwavering resolve.
“We may be broken, but we are not defeated,” said Terhemba Iormba. “We will return to our farms, rebuild our homes, and start again—not because it is easy, but because we must. But we cannot do it alone. The government must not turn away. We have done our part by surviving; now they must do theirs by protecting us. This land is our inheritance, not a battlefield. We are not asking for favours—we are demanding our right to live.”
Linda Nwabuwa Akhigbe
Only last month, on May 28, 2025, the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, celebrated its 50th anniversary with huge fanfare, commemorating the event with official ceremonies in Ghana and Nigeria.
Back in 1975, the leaders of Nigeria and Togo; Yakubu Gowon and Gnasssingbe Eyadema had traversed the region and rallied 16 nations to sign the famous Lagos Treaty which engendered unity and free trade in the West African subregion.
On Sunday, June 22, 2025, the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, under whose stewardship ECOWAS marked the Golden Jubilee, will be handing over the Chairmanship of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, after two successive mandates. President Tinubu’s leadership in the regional body’s highest decisionmaking , which beganorgan began on July 9, 2023, at the ECOWAS summit of Heads of State and Government in Bissau. As a mark of Confidence in him, his peers renewed the mandate of this rotational position on July 2024, and under whom the organization recently marked its half century, comes to an end.
For over 50 years, the organizationECOWAS has endured a checkered existence and President Tinubu’s tenure as ECOWAS Chairman is no different. The beginning of his tenure coincided with incidences of coups and counter coups in the subregion, culminating with the exit of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger from ECOWAS to form focus on a security partnership called they established earlier called the Alliance of Sahel States AES. and tThe new Sahelian bloc led by military regimes, whose existence is anti-thetical to ECOWAS democratic norms and rules, have also severeding military ties with their former Western partners allies like the United States and France, and now relying on Russia for military support.
His tenure became a bulwark against the erosion of democratic values. Insisting, “We will not allow coup after coup in Africa”. ECOWAS under His watch imposed far reaching sanctions on Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Guinea to get them to return to constitutional rule and deter coup d’etats in the subregion. However, President Tinubu softened his earlier stance probably taking into consideration public sentiments such as those expressed by the only surviving founding Father of ECOWAS General Yakubu Gowon who called for the lifting of sanctions on the three countries. On February 24, 2024, ECOWAS lifted most of the sanctions on Niger , Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea and President Tinubu urged the three countries to return to the community noting that ECOWAS must re-examine its current approach to the quest for constitutional order. Throughout his tenure, President Tinubu prioritized diplomatic negotiations to end the impasse with the three countries. Consequently, direct talks between ECOWAS and the three countries have begun towards safeguarding the community’s achievements and building future cooperation in various areas including security and development. Over the course of his two terms as Chairman of the regional body, President Tinubu has gone to great lengths to promote peace in the subregion. His
efforts at facilitating peace talks in SierraLeone guided led to the signing of the crucial Unity Agreement between the major protagonists, following the post 2023 multi-tier election crisis in the country and enabling the exile of former President of Sierra – Leone Ernest Koroma to Nigeria to ease tensions in the country. Under his watch, the ECOWAS Standby Force to counter terrorism was activated and the ECOWAS military logistics depot in Lungi, Sierra Leone has been completed. He also made sure the frontline member states in the fight against terrorism, including the AES states, were supported with $4 million under the ECOWAS Counter Terrorism Humanitarian Response and ECOWAS allocated $9 million to assist persons of concern namely refugees, internally displaced persons, and asylum seekers. ECOWAS also delivered direct humanitarian aid to over 41,000 displaced persons in Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Guinea and Nigeria. His continued support for ECOMIG, the ECOWAS Military Intervention in the Gambia, which first arrived to shore up the regime of Adama Barrow in 2017 and forced a reluctant Yahya Jammeh into exile, has been responsible for enduring peace in that enclave. Also remarkable is his assiduity in remaining engaged with Guinea, which has been under suspension since the coup that removed 83-year-old Alpha Conde from power in 2021.
ECOWAS, under the stewardship of President Tinubu, has helped in stabilizing democracy in some West African countries in transition, leading to improved electoral and governance practices, dialogue and peaceful handovers in Liberia and Ghana’s recent elections. The election monitoring machinery of
the regional bloc and its peer review mechanism have engendered a more salubrious atmosphere and ensured that elections are becoming increasingly free and fair and devoid of violence.
It is important to remember that the pivotal reason for setting up ECOWAS was to ensure economic stability and prosperity in the region, and here ECOWAS under the leadership of President Tinubu has left indelible footprints. As a consequence of his leadership, ECOWAS has implemented extensive activities to consolidate the free trade area, customs union and the common market. Of note was the signing of the $26bn African Atlantic Gas Pipeline project agreement between the Federal Government, Morocco, and ECOWAS. The gas pipeline initiative aims to connect at least 13 nations and foster economic growth throughout the region.
As President Tinubu revealed on July 21, 2024 during the 6th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union, a foremost forum for the African Union and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) to align their work on the implementation of the continental integration agenda, “ECOWAS supported six Member States in ratifying the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, and thirteen Member States have ratified the AFCFTA agreement… The ECOWAS interconnected System for the Management of Goods in Transit (SIGMAT) is also operational in twelve Member States,” facilitating trade and reducing transit barriers.
He also oversaw a major rise in participation under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization scheme ETLS, with Nigeria alone recording over 3,000 registered companies and more than 6,000 eligible products as of December 2024.
On the home front, President Tinubu laid the groundwork for the NigeriaEquatorial Guinea gas pipeline, a $25 billion project to enhance regional energy connectivity which is supported by ECOWAS. The 200km project is focused on transporting Nigerian gas to Equatorial Guinea, addressing regional energy cooperation and redressing economic challenges. Still on energy, ECOWAS under His watch is advancing electrification efforts in The Gambia, Guinea Bissau, and Mali through the ECOWAS-Regional Electricity Access Project (ECOREAP). In the area of agriculture and food security, ECOWAS under the leadership of President Tinubu operationalized the Regional Fund for Agriculture and Food (RFAF) via the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development, promoting rice self-sufficiency. In that wise, 490 million livestock were vaccinated in the Sahel, improving animal health policies, and boosting access to the Green Climate Fund for climate-smart agriculture.
The exit of President Tinubu as ECOWAS Chairman will be profoundly felt. His contribution to making ECOWAS a stable, peaceful and united Community is a benchmark for his successor. As he hands over the baton to a new helmsman, there are several problems which demand attention, namely the need to check the rising spate of terror attacks in the Sahel where gratuitous violence is common, and the impact of this on the economy of the region. The regional counterterrorism force must be fully activated and well-funded because the cost of inaction will be incalculable.
•Linda Nwabuwa Akhigbe is the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Strategic Communications
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President Tinubu’s administration has taken commendable steps which resonate with the young generation, reckons DARE OJEPE
page 21 Monday
The success of the TSA is a demonstration that local technology can solve national challenges, argues CHRIS UWAJE
See page 21
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Although the Agama administration has chalked some gains, there is much more to be done, argues SOLA ONI
Time is truly a valuable and finite resource. We can use, spend and trade it. But we can neither create nor store it. How time flies! On Friday, April 19, 2024, Dr Emomotimi Agama, hit headlines with the news of his appointment as the Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Prior to the exalted and powerful position, Agama was the Managing Director of the Nigerian Capital Market Institute, a subsidiary of the Commission. Building on this momentum, he succeeded Dr Lamido Yuguda, the immediate past Director General. On Thursday, June 6, 2024, the Senate confirmed Agama as the substantive Director General and also cleared the following Executive Commissioners-Operations, Bola Ajomale; Legal and Enforcement, Franca Chuwuogor and Corporate Services, Samiya Hassan. The new Board of SEC comprises Mairiga Katuka as the Chairman, Lekan Bello and Kasimu Kurfi as NonExecutive Directors respectively. The Board is uniquely populated with seasoned stockbrokerscore professionals in the securities market. In my piece, entitled: ‘Who’s Afraid of Emomotimi Agama?”, I posited that his appointment as the SEC Director General is difficult to challenge. He cannot be faulted on the basis of skill and industry experience. Agama rose through the ranks and has played strategic roles in the Commission over the years. Upon his assumption of office, he told the staff that: “I have come here as your colleague, because without you, this institution won’t get anywhere. This Institution has been built by you. Your resilience, even in trying times has brought us thus far. All of you have been symbols of hard work.’
With these inspiring words, Agama and his Team swung into action, starting with brand activation of the Commission. Barely one week in the office, the Commission has reduced the time it takes for companies to obtain approval to raise capital in the Nigerian capital market from almost one year to 14 days. The time reduction can lead to quicker revenue generation, enhanced efficiency and increased investor confidence. Remarkably, SEC has recently announced that a T+2 settlement cycle for equity transaction shall commence on November 28, 2025, indicating that transactions will be settled two business days after the trade day as against the current T+3 settlement cycle. Today, electronic filing system and deployment of e-offering platforms have significantly reduced manual processes. It is heartwarming that SEC has directed all public companies and their registrars to stop treating unclaimed dividends older than 12 years as statute-barred, especially those declared before the enactment of the Finance Act 2020. The directive is expected to further reduce the backlog of unclaimed dividends
Market pundits believe that SEC under Agama Administration is more accessible to market operators and it’s collaborating with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other relevant institutions for symbiotic relationship. The ongoing bank recapitalisation is the Administration’s first assignment. Success stories have already emanated from many banks. The Commission has taken a deep dive into the trading in digital assets by granting two Digital Exchanges- Quidax Exchange and Busha Exchange approval-in- Principle. Another milestone in the Administration’s first
year was the signing into law of Investment and Securities Act (ISA 2025), by President Bola Tinubu. Agama has always described the new Act as “a transformative step, aiming to enhance the capital market by aligning it with international standards and boosting investor confidence.”
The ISA 2025 has been widely acclaimed by stakeholders as a pathfinder towards globalization of the Nigerian capital market and confidence booster for investors. The Act incorporates innovative products like digital assets, crowdfunding, and financial technology. It classifies exchanges into composite and non-composite functionally on the number of asset classes they deal in. The Act also empowers SEC to adopt risk-based supervision, prosecute and jail anyone that runs foul of the securities laws amongst others. Miffed by his members’ fears that a sudden full-blown implementation of the dreaded ISA 2025 might put market operators under severe pressure, Sam Onukwue, the Chairman, Securities Dealing Houses of Nigeria (ASHON), has appealed to SEC to grant a cooling-off period for market operators to enable them digest its provisions to avert breach from the outset. At the moment, SEC is cracking down on Ponzi Schemes.
Market pundits commended the Agama Administration for achieving so much in just one year, but they expressed concerns in some areas and called for urgent attention. An observer said “Agama and his Team have the mindset to transform the market and they have not deviated. SEC’s advocacy requires fine-tuning to expand investor base. The Commission needs to work harder to get the government’s buy-in of its projects. We want to see the link between the Commission’s activities and the Federal Government’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP). We expect a Commission that treats complaints with dispatch. There is no need to dissipate much energy on attracting foreign investors. If our market thrives, foreign investors will come. Companies are delisting from NGX because the market is not meeting their corporate goals.
How are the quoted companies supervised? It is commendable that ISA 2025 is signed in Agama’s first tenure. We hope it will be well-implemented.”
Another market watcher described the Commission’s explanation of its handling of the toxic case of fraud estimated at N1.3 trillion by a digital platform, CYBEX as untenable. “The Agama Administration, has done fairly well in the first year. But the Commission’s defence of its handling of CBEX after a fraud of over N1.3 trillion was uncovered was reactive rather than preventive. CBEX was not registered with SEC and kept on collecting money from people. It would have been more assuring if the Commission had discovered CBEX before the bubble burst. More work has to be done to build investor trust in the market.”
Agama and his Team obviously know that there are legacy issues that continue to haunt the Commission during tenure of the previous Director Generals. For instance, many investors had lost their life savings in the primary market when sleazy fundraisers deceived them with false offer documents approved by SEC, raised fund and disappeared without listing on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (now NGX). Although SEC is trying to address the issue of unclaimed dividend from different perspectives, there are still some glitches with the new method of addressing unclaimed dividend. Corporate raiders have perfected many styles of indirect take-over in quoted companies. The Commission’s directive that unlisted securities of public companies be traded on securities exchange is breached with impunity amongst others.
Agama’s crack Team should celebrate their first anniversary by doubling down on their success while embracing the responsibility that come with it. After all, greater power demands greater accountability.
The success of the TSA is a demonstration that local technology can solve national challenges, argues CHRIS UWAJE
In today’s hyperconnected world, digital infrastructure has become the lifeline of national development. Just as roads and power once defined industrial growth, so now do data platforms, software systems, and digital frameworks define the knowledge economy. For a country like Nigeria, the implications are profound. Digital infrastructure is no longer a luxury. It is a strategic asset, a national security issue, and an economic necessity.
Back in 2001, Nigeria adopted its first National Information Technology Policy. That document signalled intent, but the digital era has since evolved with breathtaking speed. What once seemed futuristic is now foundational. Nations must choose whether to be passive consumers of foreign technology or strategic producers of indigenous innovation. At stake is not just economic potential, but sovereignty itself.
The global economy is moving toward artificial intelligence, cloud governance, digital currencies, and decentralised systems. Without a deliberate strategy to build and protect local digital capacity, we risk exclusion from critical value chains, and we would continue to depend on external systems we neither control nor fully understand to our detriment.
Technology is more than hardware and code, it is a nation’s capacity to define its future. Local tech innovations have the potential to transform Nigeria’s economy by creating jobs, opening new markets, and enabling digital self-reliance. From payment infrastructure to education platforms and digital identity systems, indigenous technologies are becoming essential tools for economic resilience and inclusive development.
Consider India, which implemented a deliberate national strategy that helped build a software export industry worth over 200 billion dollars. Nigeria has comparable human capital and an equally vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. With the right mix of strategic investment, policy alignment, and institutional support, our software ecosystem has the potential not only to replicate that success but to surpass it, shaping Africa’s digital future and influencing the global tech landscape.
Indigenous software also plays a vital role in inclusion. Designed with contextual awareness, it helps bridge rural access gaps, address gender inequities, and navigate infrastructural constraints. It ensures that technology serves the needs of all Nigerians - not just the connected elite - while preserving cultural relevance and economic value within our borders.
This has long been my advocacy. At a keynote address delivered seven years ago at the NITRA Quarterly Forum, I called for a national software development strategy and the creation of a technology innovation park to nurture talent and boost productivity. I also urged the allocation of at least 10 percent of the national budget to ICT, noting that Nigeria’s technology ecosystem was, and remains, underfunded and insufficiently protected. True indigenous content must involve products developed by Nigerians that do not require foreign remittance. That principle is more critical today than ever. Few examples illustrate the power of indigenous innovation more clearly than the Treasury Single Account (TSA). Once plagued by fiscal inefficiencies, Nigeria now has in place a robust public finance mechanism made possible by a local software solution, Remita.
The TSA was created to address the longstanding problem of fragmented government banking. Before its introduction in 2011, thousands of government accounts scattered across commercial banks facilitated financial leakages and institutional opacity. The TSA’s goal was to consolidate government revenues into a single account at the Central Bank of Nigeria, enforce financial disci-
pline, and eliminate waste. Since its full implementation in 2015, the results have been near-extraordinary. The TSA helped recover over ₦3 trillion from previously untracked accounts, led to the closure of more than 17,000 redundant accounts, and has saved the country over ₦45 billion in monthly interest payments. Annual overheads from bank charges also dropped by over ₦24 billion, according to reports.
This success story was enabled by Remita, a world-class solution developed by Nigerian software company SystemSpecs. Originally a product of SystemSpecs, Remita has since evolved into an independent company, Remita Payment Services Limited (RPSL). Contracted through a competitive process involving the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, and international consultants, Remita outperformed foreign options. Its performance over the years has demonstrated unequivocally that Nigerian software can deliver significant national impact.
The TSA’s achievements have drawn global attention. Countries such as The Gambia and Kenya have sought to replicate the initiative, seeing in Nigeria a model of digital fiscal reform. TSA is a powerful validation of Nigeria’s indigenous technological capacity and a testament to what is possible when local innovation is aligned with national strategy. Now, a new and transformative policy frontier is emerging in the form of the National Revenue Service (NRS) and its accompanying Revenue Assurance initiative. This reform aims to harmonise revenue collection across all levels of government, reduce tax evasion, and strengthen Nigeria’s capacity for sustainable revenue mobilisation. At the heart of this reform is a coordinated framework that will rely heavily on the foundational digital infrastructure already laid by the TSA. The TSA would remain the critical bedrock on which the NRS must stand. The centralisation and accountability the TSA brought to public finance are the same principles the NRS must uphold and expand. If Nigeria is to build a credible, secure, and efficient national revenue system, then it must be deliberate about embedding indigenous technology such as Remita, which is tested and trusted, into the very fabric of its evolving.
Digital sovereignty is a nation’s ability to control its digital infrastructure, data, and technological future. In today’s world, software is at the heart of this control. Without it, we compromise our economy, governance, and national resilience. The most vulnerable point of a nation’s development and security ecosystem is the financial ecosystem – especially when the Software that powers its processes is owned and controlled by foreign solution providers.
Uwaje,
“Oracle of the Nigerian IT Industry,” is a pioneer of Nigeria’s National IT Policy, which led to the creation of NITDA and the country’s National Software Strategy
President Tinubu’s administration has taken commendable steps which resonate with the young generation, reckons DARE OJEPE
As we mark two years since President Bola Tinubu assumed office, it is essential to evaluate his administration’s impact on Nigeria’s youth, a vital segment of the nation’s future. From the lens of students and young professionals, several initiatives and policies stand out, particularly the introduction of student loans, grants for technical education students, and the composition of his cabinet.
One of the most anticipated moves by President Tinubu has been the successful execution of the student loan scheme (NELFUND) aimed at increasing access to higher education. For many Nigerian youths, financing university studies remains a significant hurdle, often leading to prolonged academic timelines or inability to attend higher institutions. The administration’s efforts to establish accessible, affordable loans is revolutionizing higher education financing. It is enabling bright but economically disadvantaged students to pursue their academic aspirations without the crippling fear of debt or financial exclusion.
This initiative also signifies a paradigm shift in Nigeria’s educational policy, moving from a subsidized or free education model to a more sustainable, loan-based system that encourages responsible borrowing and repayment. For the youth, this provides hope and a clearer pathway to upward mobility. Moreover, it instills a sense of financial discipline and responsibility among students, shaping a generation that values education and understands the importance of financial planning.
Recognizing the importance of skill acquisition and technical education, the government’s N45,000 grants for students in technical schools show a commendable commitment toward diversifying Nigeria’s workforce. Such grants can potentially stimulate interest in technical colleges, leading to a more technologically skilled youth population capable of driving Nigeria’s industrialization and innovation agendas. It is an encouraging move, especially in a country where youth unemployment remains high, and practical skills are increasingly valued in a global economy.
Furthermore, these grants can serve as a catalyst for rebranding technical education as a first choice for many young Nigerians who traditionally view it as a lesser alternative to university education. By investing directly in technical institutions, the government is fostering a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance; qualities essential for tackling unemployment and economic stagnation.
President Tinubu's cabinet choices have reflected a progressive approach to youth involvement in government. Several key positions have been filled by young and dynamic individuals who bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table. This inclusion demonstrates an understanding that the challenges facing Nigeria require daring and energetic minds capable of devising new ways to forge progress. Through mentorship and direct involvement, these young leaders are learning the intricacies of governance, ensuring a sustainable leadership pipeline for the future.
The presence of youthful ministers and advisors also energizes youth engagement in governance processes, encouraging more active participation from young Nigerians in policymaking, civic discourse, and activism. It serves as a signal that leadership is increasingly recognizing the importance of diversity in age, experience, and outlook and that youth voices are vital in charting
Nigeria’s future.
While these initiatives are promising, the journey toward meaningful change is undoubtedly ongoing. For Nigeria’s youth, the next two years will be critical in seeing these policies translate into tangible benefits. More accessible education, practical skills, and genuine youth participation in governance are necessary to realize the full potential of these efforts.
Future plans should include expanding the reach of the student loan programme, ensuring it is inclusive and sustainable, and integrating more youth-centric policies into broader economic and social reforms. Additionally, fostering entrepreneurship among young Nigerians by offering seed funding, mentorship programs, and technology hubs can accelerate job creation and innovation.
A strategic approach would be to embed youth-focused policies into Nigeria’s overall development plan. This could involve dedicated ministries or agencies tasked with youth development, skill acquisition, and employment facilitation. Building partnerships with private sector stakeholders to create internship and apprenticeship programmes can also bridge the gap between education and employment.
Another essential aspect is amplifying youth voices in policy conversations. Platforms such as youth councils, consultative town halls, and digital forums can foster greater inclusivity and ensure policies address the real needs and aspirations of young Nigerians.
In summary, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has taken commendable initial steps that resonate positively with Nigeria’s young generation. It demonstrates an awareness of the importance of investing in youth-centric policies. If executed with transparency, commitment, and continuous engagement, these measures can lay a solid foundation for a more empowered, skilled, and engaged youth population. As young Nigerians, our hope remains steadfast: that the next phase of his leadership will deliver on these promises and pave the way for a brighter future for all.
Ojepe is the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Youth Engagement
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA
Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com
Widows must be given their due rights
As Nigerians join the rest of the world to mark the 2025 International Widows Day (IWD), it is important for stakeholders to recognise the impediments—discrimination, poverty, and social isolation that are placed against women who lose their husbands in the country. From being made to undergo barbaric ritual practices to being disposed of joint property by greedy in-laws or losing their inheritance if they remarry, the patriarchal nature of our society makes life difficult for widows. We therefore call on authorities, at all levels, and members of the civil society to rise in defence of widows in Nigeria.
In many communities in Nigeria today, widowhood is associated with trauma. Some of the customary laws and cultural norms that impede our widows, according to the founder of Widows Development Organisation (WIDO), Eleanor Nwadinobi, include harmful traditional practices such as forced shaving of the hair, varying periods of confinement and stigmatising dress codes. Some widows are forced into ‘levirate’ marriages — where they are inherited by a surviving male in the family. In addition, widows may face eviction from their homes and denial of their inheritance rights to land and other property for which they would have jointly worked for with their husbands. To Nwadinobi, there is no homogeneity with widowhood considering age and circumstantial differences. A widow could be an older woman whose husband died after many years of marriage, or a young girl forced into early marriage with a much older man. “Among the categories of women who face barriers but have been so ignored are widows of all ages and wives of the disappeared. Some widows may suffer isolation, loneliness and even contemplate suicide,” said Nwadinobi on the challenges
of widowhood. “The psychological and mental health consequences of grief are different depending on how they deal with grief. There is a no closure without grief.”
We agree with Nwadinobi that access to justice and poverty leave many widows in our country suffering from silence, stigma and shame, although the situation is changing gradually. The Violence Against Persons Act (VAPP) signed into law in 2015 by President Goodluck Jonathan includes provisions on the plight of widows. According to Section 15 of the law, any person who subjects a widow to harmful traditional practices commits an offence and liable on conviction to a term of imprisonment not exceeding two years or a fine not exceeding N500,000 or both.
Access to justice and poverty leave many widows suffering from silence, stigma and shame, although the situation is changing gradually
T H I S D AY
EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU
DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE
MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO
DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU
CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI
EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA
GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU
DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE
DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI
SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI
CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI
DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO
TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com
The law also criminalises attempts to subject widows to such harmful practices. A few states have also enacted legislation in support of widows’ rights.
However, beyond socio-cultural factors, what is also unfortunate is that some commercial banks put stringent conditions for widows to access money in their deceased husbands’ accounts even when designated as next- of- kins. While we enjoin Nigerians to imbibe the idea of having a Will in case of sudden, unexpected death, we urge the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to intervene on this vexatious matter.
The International Widows Day being marked today was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2010, to address the social injustices faced by millions of widows around the world and to promote their rights. To safeguard Nigerian widows from denial of property rights, forced marriage and other practices that undermine their dignity and general wellbeing, there have been moves by some members of the National Assembly to amend the VAPP Act 2015 to incorporate more provisions. We endorse the idea.
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The Interparliamentary Union(IPU) conference on interfaith dialogue recently concluded in Rome, featuring a visit to the Vatican and an audience with Pope Leo XIV. I attended the event. For two days, parliamentarians and other delegates from over 60 countries met and discussed ways to strengthen trust and forge a common future for humanity. They exchanged views on how to deploy parliamentary diplomacy in promoting interfaith dialogue and peace worldwide. At various moments during the event, participants referred to the war in the Middle East, and the need for dialogue in resolving other conflicts linked to faith/belief. It was inspiring to see representatives of different faiths and beliefs, participants from Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Bahai, Sikh, Buddhist, and Humanist communities meet in one room. I represented Humanists International, the umbrella group of humanists, atheists, and agnostics worldwide.
It was gratifying to meet and interact with representatives of various faiths and to witness firsthand how dialogue can bring together faith groups that often debate, disagree and fight each other. It was pleasant to confer with belief communities that proffer opposing and conflicting cosmologies. The interfaith conference was an enriching experience; it caused me to ponder and reflect on the
place of debate and dialogue in interfaith/belief relations. In human relations, debate and dialogue are necessary. They constitute pillars of human intelligence, interaction, and wisdom. These facilities of exchange and conversations are critical to the growth and nourishment of people both individually and collectively. Debate and dialogue are like Siamese twins. They are 'inseparable' in human pursuits and undertakings. Debate and dialogue go together and help humanity renew, recreate, and reproduce. Culture, politics, science, religions, philosophies, technologies, and art are products of debate and dialogue. Civilizations are grounded, inspired, and driven by debates and dialogues. In debates, humans argue, oppose, and try to win or win over others. Humans compete and contest other truth and knowledge claims. Debates highlight shortcomings, limitations, faults, and gaps in other views and positions. In debates, humans challenge claims and try to prove a point or their points. People demonstrate the superiority of their arguments, ideas, positions, and perspectives. In debates, humans persuade or are persuaded. Debaters try to prove each other wrong. Debate is the springboard of knowledge, and discovery, invention and innovation, truth and excellence. But dialogue elicits different sentiments. It entails a different
disposition and comportment. In dialogue, humans present and communicate views to understand each other's position. Dialogue is collaborative. Humans work together despite their differences. They try to appreciate and acknowledge what is good, and common, what is right and true in others' positions and opinions. Dialogue is an acknowledgment that nobody knows it all, and there is some value and validity in every position and proposition. Dialogue compels humans to tolerate others, and accommodate different views and opinions. It opens the mind to other truths, and liberates humans from suffocating dogmas and orthodoxies. Dialogue nudges human beings to transcend their differences, and realize that humans have more in common, more that unite than divide them. That compulsion was evident during the sessions at the IPU event in Rome. Despite differences in faith and belief, participants sat together and ate together. Attendees mingled, shared jokes, worries, and laughter.
For instance, during the plenaries, representatives of faith/belief communities sat at the section of the hall meant for 'religious' leaders.
Leo Igwe, Rome, Italy
Kayode Tokede
A report by Renaissance Capital Africa has revealed that five leading Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) cash reserve with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) totalled N51.51 trillion between 2020 and 2024.
Renaissance Capital in a report titled, “Nigerian Banks: Cash is King,” named Access Holdings, First Holdco Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA) and Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) as the leading depositors with the CBN. CRR is the minimum amount banks and merchant banks are expected to retain with the CBN from customer deposits, it earns no interest and is not available for use by the banks in their day-to-day operations.
It is one of the ways CBN regulates the country’s money supply, inflation level and liquidity in the country. The higher the rate, the lower the liquidity with the banks.
In January 2020, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of CBN increased CRR by five per cent from 22.5 per cent to 27.5 per cent and in September 2022, it moved it to 32.5 per cent.
The MPC at its first meeting in 2024 increased CRR to 45.00 per cent from 32.5 per cent amid doubledigit inflation rate. However, the committee at the second meeting in 2024, adjusted the CRR for Merchant Banks from 10.0 per cent to 14.0 per cent.
Currently, the CBN by regulation forces banks to retain up to 50 per cent of their deposits to meet its
CRR requirement, meaning that the deposits are not accessed by the banks for loans and advances.
The report by Renaissance Capital Africa showed that among the Tier-1 DMBs, Access Holdings, followed by Zenith Bank in the last five years have the highest amount reserve with the CBN.
For instance, Access Holdings and Zenith Bank’s total cash reserve with CBN stood at N13.03 trillion and N12.76 trillion in the last five years, respectively.
Also, First Holdco’s cash reserve with CBN between 2020-2024FY stood at N9.68 trillion,while that of UBA at N9.43 trillion in the period under review.
For GTCO, the lender’s cash reserve with CBN between 2020-2024 FY currently at N6.64 trillion.
The policy, which started in
2019 has drawn criticisms from most of the banks, stakeholders and shareholders.
Renaissance Capital Africa in the report noted that the CBN’s decision to raise the CRR to 50 per cent while simultaneously mandating banks to recapitalise to support lending for a $1 trillion economy by 2030 appears contradictory.
“While the recapitalisation directive aims to strengthen banks’ capacity to lend, the 50 per cent CRR severely restricts their ability to deploy funds, effectively undermining the policy’s intent. The feasibility of the $1 trillion gross domestic products (GDP) target is questionable, given that a core rationale for recapitalisation was to spur credit growth, an outcome now constrained by the
CRR’s liquidity drain.
“With CRR at 50per cent and the liquidity ratio at 30 per cent, banks are left with only 20 per cent of customer deposits available for lending, well below the regulatory Loan-to-Deposit Ratio (LDR) benchmark of 50 per cent.
“This structural limitation makes it challenging for banks to meet domestic lending targets, even with higher capital buffers. Notably, banks currently maintaining LDRs above 20 per cent are likely doing so through deposits sourced from international operations, which remain unaffected by the CBN’s domestic CRR policy,” it stated.
The firm noted that the policy mix creates conflicting incentives, while recapitalisation seeks to expand lending capacity, the CRR hike stifles liquidity, forcing banks to
prioritize balance sheet management over credit expansion.
“Unless adjusted, these measures risk stifling the very growth they were designed to support,” Renaissance said.
Renaissance Capital Africa, while commending the CBN’s overall regulatory stance, said it viewed specific directives, particularly the 50 per cent CRR requirement, as excessively stringent and potentially counterproductive to policy objectives.
“The CBN’s recent measures requiring banks to pause dividend payments, defer management bonuses, and halt foreign subsidiary investments effectively force the banking sector to “bite the bullet”.
Nume Ekeghe
Banks shares continued upward momentum last week at the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) as investors sold 360 million shares of Zenith Bank Plc valued at N16.9 billion.
The Tier-1 lender outperformed all other stocks by volume and value, helping lift the banking index and extend the stock market’s bullish run.
The surge in investor activity around Zenith Bank follows recent insider purchases by the bank’s founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, and Group Managing Director, Dr. Adaora Umeoji. Between June 10 and 18, Ovia’s investment vehicle, Quantum Zenith Securities, acquired
1.45 million shares valued at over N68 million, while Umeoji purchased a total of 68.75 million shares worth over N3.3 billion, moves seen as a strong vote of confidence in the bank’s long-term prospects.
According to Afrinvest Research’s market wrap, the NGX All-Share Index gained 2.3 per cent to close at 118,138.2 points, improving the year-to-date return to 14.8 per cent. Market capitalisation also advanced by N1.68 trillion to N74.5 trillion.
The report stated: “The local bourse roared to a positive close, extending to its fourth consecutive week of gains, as the NGX-ASI advanced 2.3 per cent w/w to close at 118,138.2 points. Consequently,
YTD performance improved to 14.8 per cent from 12.1 per cent in the previous week, while market capitalisation advanced 2.3 per cent to N74.5 trillion. Trading activity level improved as average volume and value traded expanded 4.3 per cent and 36.6 per cent to 683.7 million units and N16.9 billion, respectively.
“The top traded stocks by volume were Zenith Bank 360.6 million units, Champion Breweries Plc, 344.9 million units, and AccessHoldco 241.5 million units, while the top traded stocks by value were Zenith Bank N16.9 billion, GTCO, N15.0 billion, and UBA N7.5 billion.”
Also, the fixed-income market closed last week on a bullish note
across all segments, with investors’ demand in the primary market notably significant, especially for long-dated bills.
On its part, Meristem Securities Limited in its weekly update noted that the sentiment in the secondary market reflected investors’ confidence in Nigeria’s economy especially with the gradual increase in oil prices and relative stability of the economy.
It stated: “In the primary market, the CBN conducted the second Nigerian T-bills auction in the month of June with total offer reaching N162.0 billion (vs.N450.00 billion offered previously). Investors demand remained strong with subscription totaling N1.23trillion, however, 89.43
per cent of total subscription was tilted towards the 364-day bill.
“Ultimately, the CBN allotted the exact amount offered with stop rates for the 91-day, 182-day 364-day bills declining to 17.80 per cent, 18.35 per cent and 18.84 per cent, respectively from 17.98 per cent, 18.50 per cent and 19.35 per cent at the prior auction.
“Additionally, the CBN conducted an OMO auction driven by its continuous effort to absorb excess system liquidity. The Bank offered N600.00 billion across the 155-day and 204-day tenors, attracting strong investor interest with total subscriptions reaching N1.14trillion. Ultimately, the CBN allotted N1.07trn, with stop rates clearing at 24.20 per cent and 24.59 per cent, respectively.” Performance in the secondary market for T-bills and bonds were broadly bullish. At the T-bills segment, average T-bills yield dropped by 22bps WoW to 20.51 per cent from 20.73 per cent the previous week.
“Strong buying interest was seen across the curve, especially in the DEC- 25, -75bps, MAR-26, -69bps, and OCT-25, -52bps bills. However, the JAN-26 bill saw mild profit-taking, pushing its yield up by 7bps WoW,” it stated.
Yellow Card, Africa’s leading licensed stablecoin payments orchestrator, has released its first ever comprehensive report on Africa’s digital assets regulatory frameworks, tagged ‘2025 Report on the State of Digital Assets Regulation in Africa.’
With over 54 million digital asset users across Africa and sub-Saharan Africa, thus leading the world in stablecoin adoption
at 9.3 per cent, the report maps out how regulators across 20+ countries are responding to the continent’s rapid digital finance transformation.
According to the report, Nigeria ranks first in global stablecoin adoption and second in overall digital asset usage, with 25.9 million users, representing 11.9 per cent penetration rate.
The report places Nigeria at the epicenter of Africa’s digital asset movement, driven by the need
to hedge against naira volatility, access USD-denominated value, and streamline cross-border transactions.
Analysing the report, Yellow Card’s General Counsel, Craig Stoehr, who is also one of the authors of the report said: “We’re seeing real momentum from both regulators and innovators, a clear signal that digital assets are no longer fringe, but foundational.”
The report highlighted Nigeria’s
significant regulatory developments,
including: “The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), now officially regulates digital assets as securities, cemented by amendments to the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2024. Programmes like the Accelerated Regulatory Incubation Programme (ARIP) are onboarding platforms into formal regulatory structures.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has relaxed its previous stance on
VASPs, issuing guidelines for banking relationships with crypto firms in late 2023. These moves signal an ecosystem maturing rapidly, with growing clarity, oversight, and legitimacy.
“Stablecoins are proving transformative for Nigerian individuals and businesses alike.
Beyond personal savings and remittances, more companies are now accepting digital assets for payments, unlocking faster
transactions and deeper access to foreign currency-denominated tools, all of which fuel economic innovation and financial inclusion, the report further said.
The report also highlights regional trends, including the rise of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), increased AML/CFT compliance, and how other African countries like Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa are developing their frameworks.”
Nume Ekeghe
As momentum builds towards the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS)
4.0, Plan International Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to placing girls’ rights, gender equity, and inclusive education at the heart of the continent’s development agenda.
The non-governmental organisation, which returns this year as a theme partner, in a statement announced it will focus on system strengthening, strategic partnerships, and policy influence as part of its mission to protect, empower, and elevate adolescent girls particularly in fragile and crisis-prone settings.
Country Director, Plan International Nigeria, Charles Usie, said: “The development conversation
is incomplete if girls are still being left behind. ASIS is a space where that reality cannot be ignored. We are here to keep the focus on meaningful change for every girl navigating risk, uncertainty and unequal systems.”
Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, Olapeju Ibekwe, lauded the organisation’s leadership at the summit. “Plan International Nigeria plays a critical role in keeping the summit equitable and inclusive,” she said.
“Plan International Nigeria does more than represent girls. It defends their place at the centre of every policy conversation. Their presence raises the standard. It reminds every stakeholder that any solution that excludes girls is incomplete by design,” Ibekwe added.
Nigerian Entrepreneur Secures Westminster City Council’s Endorsement
Emma Okonji
Nigerian entrepreneur, Bukky Asehinde, founder of Bellafricana and CEO of TALES Global, has secured the support of the Westminster City Council towards her programme that showcases African creativity in diaspora. Asehinde recalls that, for the first time, Westminster City Council is officially supporting a pan-African cultural showcase of this scale.
According to her, “It is a landmark moment for African creative entrepreneurs and the diaspora in the UK. The endorsement sends a clear message: African creativity belongs in the centre of global cultural conversations, and TALES by Bellafricana is leading that narrative.”
With support from both the City of Westminster and New West End Company, TALES 2025 will take over one of London’s most iconic districts, Oxford Street. The collaboration ensures that TALES is not only seen but fully embraced across some of the UK’s most visible marketing channels through support from New West End Company via Oxford Street’s Instagram and website to a citywide spotlight on creativity. This reflects the West End’s continued evolution into a vibrant city that champions global creativity and cross-cultural celebration.
“This summer, London’s iconic West End will transform into a vibrant celebration of African excellence as TALES (The African Lifestyle Experience) returns with its most ambitious luxury showcase yet: Reimagine, Rediscover and Re-Source 2025.
West Africa’s industrial transformation is gaining tangible momentum through strategic policy shifts and measurable output gains across Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal. In recent times, Government-based initiatives have continued to lay a foundation for broader regional manufacturing growth, fostering economic development and industrial expansion.
In Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu’s Nigeria First policy prioritises locally manufactured goods in all government procurement, aiming to put Nigeria first in all procurement processes. Ghana’s similar directive marks a shift toward local value creation by mandating the use of
locally manufactured products in public procurement.
In light of this and to reiterate its commitment to industrialisation, the organisers of the West Africa Industrialisation, Manufacturing and Trade (West Africa IMT) Summit & Exhibition 2025 is pleased to announce the official endorsement of the event by the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, a key indication of the Summit’s agenda to unpack the opportunities created by shifting global trade dynamics and explore how African economies can leverage them for sustainable industrial and trade advancement.
The ministry’s endorsement,
according to a statement, reflects Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening trade corridors, accelerating regional economic cooperation, and fostering innovationdriven growth across strategic sectors. Speaking on the endorsement,the Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, noted,“ The Ministry formally endorses and consents to collaborate with dmg Nigeria events in the successful organisation of the West Africa Industrialisation, Manufacturing & Trade Summit and Exhibition 2025. The Ministry commends [dmg Nigeria events’] efforts in promoting industrial, manufacturing and trade
development across the West African Region and looks forward to a successful partnership in delivering a high-impact Summit’’ Speaking to the endorsement, Country Director – Nigeria & Portfolio Director – Energy for dmg Nigeria events, Wemimo Oyelana emphasised, “ As we witness Africa’s rising in global manufacturing and trade, the endorsement from the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment marks the beginning of the transformation required for real economic development and growth which is a strong validation of the strategic importance of the maiden edition of the West African IMT Summit and Exhibition.”
The Ernest Shonekan Centre for Legislative Reforms and Economic Development and the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law have formalised their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding in Lagos.
The partners said their collaboration aims to strengthen Nigeria’s legislative, judicial, and regulatory frameworks, driving economic transformation and fostering a more conducive business environment.
In his opening remarks, the
Chairman of ESC, Kyari Bukar, said, “Both organisations have consistently collaborated by sharing their expertise, fostering informed discussions and initiatives aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s business environment.
However, this relationship has largely remained informal until now. The Signing Ceremony marks an essential step in formalising our partnership, solidifying our mutual commitment to legislative advocacy, economic development, and professional excellence in
business law.
“Today is not just a ceremonial exercise; it is the formalisation of a strategic partnership rooted in a shared vision to strengthen Nigeria’s legislative, judicial, and regulatory frameworks that support its economic transformation.”
The Chairman of NBA-SBL, Mrs Ozofu Ogiemudia, in her special remarks, noted that the advancement of Nigeria has been hampered by various challenges within the legislative, regulatory, and judicial systems.
She said, “With this partnership, we are taking a decisive step towards addressing these critical issues head-on. The NBA-SBL and the ESC have expressed mutual concerns for the development of the Nigerian economy. We recognise the indispensable role that a strong legal, regulatory, and legislative system plays in attracting investment, fostering innovation, and ensuring fair play. We also understand the power of networks and coalitions in achieving optimal results in today’s interconnected world.”
International Breweries Plc (IBPLC), has announced the official launch of the 2025 edition of its flagship Kickstart Initiative. The announcement marks the 10th year anniversary of the programme’s impactful journey. Through the company’s CSR arm: International Breweries Foundation, has opened the call for applications for Kickstart 2025, reaffirming its longstanding commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable economic development in Nigeria.
At the core of the Kickstart Initiative is a belief in the power of youth-driven enterprise to shape Nigeria’s future. Speaking on the significance of the programme, Chairman of the Advisory Board at the International Breweries Foundation, Dr. Peter Bamkole, emphasised the critical role of young entrepreneurs in driving economic transformation.
“We believe Nigeria’s economic transformation lies with its young entrepreneurs. Kickstart continues to make a meaningful impact by
reducing unemployment and promoting inclusive growth,” he said. “We’re looking for passionate, resilient individuals ready to grow their businesses, whether in agriculture, recycling, retail, or renewable energy. This is a chance to access the knowledge, network, and funding needed to succeed.”
Commenting on the programme’s 2025 approach, Corporate Affairs and Regulatory Director at IBPLC, Temitope Oguntokun, said: “Kickstart represents our
unwavering commitment to support the building of a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nigeria. By investing in the ideas and energy of our youth, we are sowing the seeds of long-term prosperity. Over the years, we have seen beneficiaries grow from small startups to employers of labour - these myriads of lives that have been transformed is our return on investment and we are excited to welcome the next generation of changemakers in 2025.”
Arinze Nzobum
“What have I done with my life?” It’s a question most people ask themselves at major milestones, reflecting on the path they’ve taken. Amid the celebrations and excitement of reaching a new decade or marking another year, that thought inevitably creeps in, forcing you to pause and take stock.
Over the last few months, Wema Bank’s story as they celebrated 80 years has been visible on all fronts more than ever. The story is fresh, reminding us of our journey through life where you face good, bad, hard, and plentiful times. The festivities drew attention and naturally. One question that popped up and was asked is - ‘does any company deserve this much celebration?’ A little digging answered the question loudly: Yes. Because in an economy littered with the ghosts of once-mighty brands, Wema Bank’s survival, and more importantly, its reinvention and domination after 80 years, is a lesson in resilience we rarely celebrate enough.
Just two months after its 80th anniversary, Wema Bank has already secured notable upgrades from three renowned credit rating firms that independently assess the financial strength and stability of companies worldwide. Fitch Ratings, one of the “Big Three” global rating agencies known for providing investors with credit opinions on businesses and governments across over 150 countries, upgraded Wema’s National Long-Term Rating to A-(nga) from BBB (nga). Global Credit Ratings (GCR), a leading Pan-African agency that specializes in assessing financial institutions and corporations across Africa and emerging markets, raised its national issuer ratings to BBB+(NG)/A2(NG) from BBB(NG)/A3(NG). Meanwhile, Agusto & Co, Nigeria’s foremost indigenous rating agency and pioneer in providing locally relevant credit risk evaluations for Nigerian businesses, upgraded its rating to A- from Bbb+.
For any Nigerian bank, these upgrades are more than paper certificates; they’re a signal that homegrown institutions can earn global respect when they get the basics right. For Wema Bank, having its rating upgraded by one of the world’s largest and most influential credit rating agencies, Fitch, signals international investor trust. It shows that the Bank’s fundamentals, from capital adequacy to asset quality, now stand strong enough to attract global attention and reassure foreign partners and institutional investors who rely on Fitch’s independent assessments to guide investment decisions.
Equally significant is the upgrade by Global Credit Ratings (GCR), the Pan-African authority renowned for evaluating the financial soundness of banks and companies across Africa. GCR’s higher rating affirms that Wema’s performance is stable within Nigeria and stands out positively in comparison to peers across the continent. This boosts regional credibility and supports Wema’s ambitions to deepen cross-border partnerships and appeal to investors looking to tap into Africa’s dynamic financial sector through trusted institutions.
Closer to home, the improved Agusto & Co rating reflects how well Wema understands and navigates Nigeria’s unique business environment.
As the country’s leading domestic rating agency, Agusto & Co’s upgraded score signals to local stakeholders, from retail depositors to corporate clients, that Wema remains a safe and wellmanaged bank. Together, these independent endorsements matter greatly in the Bank’s 80th year. They validate decades of strategic reforms and innovation and reinforce Wema’s readiness to keep pioneering solutions while safeguarding customers’ trust far into the future.
With these strengthened ratings reinforcing its credibility at every levelglobal, continental, and national - Wema Bank stands even more firmly positioned to deliver on its mission of inclusive, innovative banking filled with the future of possibilities. This renewed vote of confidence not only secures stakeholder trust today but also honors the Bank’s deep roots and long-standing promise to serve communities across Nigeria with integrity and foresight.
As a national bank born in 1945 as Agbonmagbe Bank, Wema has been a trailblazer, founded before Nigeria’s independence at a time when only foreign banks dominated the market. Born out of necessity to serve the small businesses colonial banks ignored, it grew quickly from a private bank to a public limited company in 1987 (after rebranding to Wema in 1969). By 1990, it had listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange and steadily evolved into the institution where over 7,000 Nigerians proudly work today.
Founded out of necessity, driven by innovation, and sustained through resilience, Wema Bank has always stayed a step ahead, competing with other financial institutions and pioneering groundbreaking solutions in the financial sector. In 2017, Wema did the unexpected for a so-called old-school bank: it launched ALAT, Africa’s first fully digital bank. I remember the first time I heard about ALAT. It sounded too good to be true: open an account on your phone, save money, get loans, no branch drama. I joined millions of others who signed up because it was an easy sell. And instead of stopping at one good idea, Wema built an ecosystem around it - ALAT for Business, an app that enables businesses to manage all banking transactions from their devices; ALAT Xplore, Nigeria’s first licensed banking app for teenagers; ALAT Pay, a payment gateway for businesses to receive customer payments seamlessly; and ALAT Hub, an agent banking network allowing third parties to deliver financial services on the Bank’s behalf.
We have watched countless friends ditch traditional branches because Wema made banking feel like an app, not a chore. That’s not a small shift in a country where trust
In its 80th year, Wema rewarded shareholders with N1 per share (the highest dividend in its history), supported by record-breaking results in 2024: a 134% increase in profit before tax, an 89.61% rise in gross earnings, and a 146.84% jump in profit after tax compared to the previous year. Assets also grew significantly, climbing from N1.2 trillion in 2018 to N3.62 trillion in 2023.
growth and sustainability. Since launching Sara by Wema in 2019, the Bank has focused on empowering women financially and personally, building a vibrant community and resources to help them maximize their potential. Sara by Wema has empowered over 50,000 women, disbursed more than N75 billion in low-interest loans and over $20,000 in grants, created more than 900 jobs, and connected 3,000 women to 135,000 customers, generating over $4 million in sales.
in banks is hard-won. ALAT transformed everyday banking by removing barriers that once kept people away from traditional branches. With just a smartphone, millions of Nigerians (especially young, tech-savvy customers) have opened accounts, hit savings targets, made low-risk investments, acquired cheaper goods, and accessed loans without queues or paperwork. By putting full banking services into the palm of a hand, ALAT has expanded financial inclusion for groups historically left out, proving that innovation can democratize access and deepen trust in the banking system.
Taking this vision further, ALAT Xplore was created to bring teenagers into the banking fold early, empowering the next generation to build healthy financial habits. It’s not just an app; it’s a gateway for young people to learn money management, savings culture, and responsible spending through an experience designed just for them. By investing in financial literacy from adolescence, Wema Bank is helping to shape financially responsible adults who can confidently navigate Nigeria’s economy in the years ahead.
On the other hand, Wema Bank’s other industry-first product, CoopHub, extends the bank’s impact beyond individuals to communities and cooperative societies. CoopHub digitizes and simplifies how cooperatives operate, from contribution tracking to loan disbursements and record-keeping. By giving thousands of cooperatives an easy, transparent, and secure platform, Wema is strengthening grassroots financial networks, promoting accountability, and ensuring that groups built on collective trust can thrive sustainably in a modern economy.
This commitment to staying ahead we can say is born out of the Bank’s drive to create meaningful impact. Over the last few years, as Wema Bank has pushed the boundaries of innovation, it has also deepened its focus on people-driven programs that grow not just its financial footprint but its social impact as well. Internally, the Bank has invested heavily in its people, earning Great Place to Work Nigeria recognition twice in the past two years, being named Nigeria’s No. 1 Best Workplace, and winning Best Culture of Innovation & Learning Practices in 2024. In its milestone 80th year, Wema’s corporate university, Purple Academy, also received the Global CCU Gold Award for Culture, recognizing its excellence and strategic role in building a strong learning culture across the organisation.
But it’s not just about solutions and innovation, crystal awards, and shiny tech. For the community, it’s the real story of the lives touched. Wema Bank’s investments in SMEs, women, and youth have also delivered real economic impact across Nigeria. In-depth research shows that the Bank has injected over N200 billion in loans to support SMEs nationwide, with 40% of this funding going to women-led businesses, providing vital capital for
Wema Bank also introduced Hackaholics in 2019 as a unique platform that fosters creativity and tech innovation among young Nigerian entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts, further cementing Wema’s role as a bank that nurtures bold ideas and the people behind them. To date, Hackaholics has awarded over N300 million in grants, funded more than 20 startups, and reached over one million aspiring founders across five countries and 18 universities. Beyond these impressive figures, Wema has launched several other initiatives for women and youth, including the MOWASARA Accelerator Program, Transforming Nigerian Youth, Transitioning to Tech for Women, the NYSC-ALAT Accelerator Program, and FGN-ALAT Skillnovation, which alone has trained more than two million young Nigerians.
Through its Market Access initiative, the bank has also uplifted several women and those who didn’t benefit as business owners got a chance to benefit as buyers. Wema’s market access initiatives have created visibility for women-led businesses across the country, driven sales growth, and positioned SMEs on the global stage through international fairs. The program connects businesses with investors, buyers, and prospective customers to unlock new market opportunities such that it has seen 100,000+ transactions routed through fairs, payments, and collection platforms.
Despite positively affecting millions of lives, Wema’s impact goes far beyond humans and communities and reaches to the environment. In 2023 alone, the Bank disbursed over N28 billion in SME loans, including through its Green Energy Finance Facility, which offers up to N10 million for renewable energy projects. Over 1,350 staff members participated in clean-up efforts, removing more than 4.4 tons of waste on World Cleanup Day and reducing the Bank’s carbon footprint by 300 tons, achieving significant energy savings. In addition, Wema continues to design and deliver multiple sustainability, community, and health-focused programs aimed at ensuring Nigeria remains a great place to live and thrive.
All of this impact shows intentionality from an indigenous and most innovative Bank; it shows up where it matters most: in results. Wema’s efforts over the last eight decades have translated into solid financial results and greater value for shareholders. In its 80th year, Wema rewarded shareholders with N1 per share (the highest dividend in its history), supported by record-breaking results in 2024: a 134% increase in profit before tax, an 89.61% rise in gross earnings, and a 146.84% jump in profit after tax compared to the previous year. Assets also grew significantly, climbing from N1.2 trillion in 2018 to N3.62 trillion in 2023. Growth like this build an institution, it creates real change for real people and this is evident in the Wema Bank story. The Bank’s steady rise has opened doors for thousands, supported small businesses, and delivered financial access where it once seemed out of reach. By empowering women, backing young innovators, and investing in cleaner, healthier communities, the Bank has turned its success into hope and opportunity nationwide. At 80, Wema stands as living proof that true progress is measured not only in profits, but in the people lifted and futures secured along the way.
So, the next time you pass a Wema at 80 visual and feel tempted to shrug, pause instead. This isn’t just nostalgia for an old bank, it’s proof that an institution can survive, reinvent itself, and lift millions along the way. Nigeria’s oldest indigenous bank, is most innovative, and is the pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank that is still standing tall at 80. More importantly, Wema Bank is refusing to coast on legacy alone, it is determined to create a future full of possibilities for its employees and customers.
• Nzobum a chartered stockbroker and public affairs analyst wrote from Lagos
Kayode Tokede
Greenwich Merchant Bank Limited, has received an upgraded credit rating to ‘A-’ with a Stable Outlook from Agusto & Co., underscoring its strong financial position, prudent risk management, and market dominance under the leadership of its Board and Management. This marks a significant upgrade from the previous “BBB+” rating
affirmed in 2024 by Augusto & Co.
According to a statement signed by the bank’s Head, Corporate Communications, Ozena Utulu, the upgrade to an A- rating by Agusto & Co., affirms Greenwich Merchant Bank’s resilience, strong operational fundamentals, and capacity for sustained growth. The Bank remains committed to delivering tailored, high-impact financial solutions while advancing its transformation into a
Amid expectation and excitement, Fuji Rush, another song from the portfolio of music veteran Mike Abdul was introduced into the Nigerian market on June 20, 2025, promising another gyrating celebration of African gospel music.
Defined by heavy percussions, yet laced with intelligent lyrics, the song reinforces the creative dexterity for which the artiste has become famous in Nigeria’s gospel landscape and the music industry at large.
Fuji Rush is built on strong percussion. It’s intense and rhythmic, but it also has a base. It’s not just about the beat—it’s energetic, layered, and musical, the Ojoro crooner stated.
Speaking at the unveiling in Lagos, Abdul said, “It’s Fuji at its core, but with elements of pop and other genres woven in. What’s interesting is how gospel is now pushing the boundaries of Fuji,
which traditionally wasn’t seen as gospel-friendly. That shift is exciting. Rap has done it. Afrobeat has done it. Fuji Rush is doing it.” He added, “This isn’t about keeping gospel music in a corner—it’s about going into the culture, speaking the language of the streets, and flipping the script so they can be saved. That’s the energy Fuji Rush is bringing to the narrative.”
Although Fuji Rush represents a strong salute to Mike Abdul’s Midnight Crew days and the energetic throaty Fuji sounds with exciting modern vibes, the new single is also a departure from what the Igwe, Korede, and Eyan Jesu crooner has done within the Fuji genre. This new Fuji sound lays modern string and horn progressions on what is traditionally percussion-led, thus creating a spinning rendition of African sound.
diversified financial services group.
“Greenwich Merchant Bank continues to serve a diverse and highvalue clientele in both the public and private sectors, with a strong presence
across the following industries, Manufacturing, Agriculture & Soft Commodities, Healthcare, Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), Cement, Construction &
Infrastructure, Food & Beverages, Telecoms/Technology, Oil & Gas and Financial Services.
In March 2025, Greenwich Merchant Bank received regulatory
approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to operate Greenwich Holdings Limited as a non-operating financial holding company.
L-R: Industrial Development Officer, UNIDO, Dr.Yunrui Zhou; Managing Director of Somotex Nigeria Limited, Mr. Anil
the representative of the Honourable Minister of Environment, Idris Abdullahi; the representative of the Commissioner of Environment & Water Resources
Babajide and National Programme Officer, UNIDO, Dr. Osu Otu at the commissioning of ozone and climate friendly AC line for
NCMM
Coronation Group has announce its partnership with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) to establish the Coronation Gallery in Benin – a dedicated space within the new NCMM Oba Ovonramwen Facility in Benin City.
The gallery, it said in a statement will house and showcase a selection of 119 Benin Bronzes recently repatriated to Nigeria from the Netherlands. This historic return marks the largest repatriation of these cultural treasures since they were taken during the British punitive
expedition of 1897. The announcement follows the official signing and handover ceremony at the National Museum in Lagos. Dignitaries in attendance included the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa;
In what has been hailed as a watershed moment in Nigeria’s industrial journey, the Industrial Revolution Work Group (IRWG) concluded its 2-day technical session in Lagos, with resounding optimism, strategic clarity, and renewed resolve to shift Nigeria’s industrial transformation from vision to verifiable action.
Themed “From Activities to Outcomes:
Driving Industrial Renaissance,” the session convened over 20 high-impact institutions spanning government, private sector, development partners, and regulatory bodies. The event was spearheaded by the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment
(FMITI).In his compelling keynote, Senator Enoh charged participants to reject passive commentary and embrace agile execution, asking the now-anchoring question of the session: “What will success mean after this session?” His response—“a clear line of sight from insight to action, from policy to prosperity”—set the tone for two days of rich
engagement, breakout working groups, and strategic prioritization.“This is not another conference. This is a pivot point. Nigeria cannot afford to continue the cycle of plans without implementation. IRWG is our engine room for delivery,” the minister stated.
Following rigorous deliberations across five thematic pillars, the IRWG adopted a series
daughter of the Oba of Benin, Princess Iku Eware-Aimiuwu; Dewi van de Weerd Ambassador for Cultural Cooperation, Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Director- General of the NCMM; Directors of the Wereld Museum and other distinguished guests. Also in attendance were Coronation CEOs and Executives other officials. Speaking on the partnership, Chairman of Coronation Group; Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR said: “Far beyond their artistic value, these works represent the depth of our heritage and the strength of our collective identity. Their return marks a powerful restoration of history – a reminder of the dignity and creative excellence.
08097710984 (WhatsApp only)
For countless Nigerians, especially those living in rural or underserved areas, banking is not just a smartphone affair. It is not an app-driven experience with glossy user interfaces.
Instead, it is a quick code, memorised and dialled without data. All it took was a short string of digits, typed into a basic phone, to unlock the world of financial services. With codes like *737#, *894#, or *945#, users could transfer funds, pay bills, check balances, and even apply for loans. It was convenience reduced to its purest form.
This service, called Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD), has quietly powered a revolution in financial inclusion across Nigeria. But for almost five years, that revolution was threatened by a growing storm.
That storm took the form of an evermounting debt crisis between banks and telecom operators. It was a conflict that swelled beneath the surface of Nigeria’s fintech ecosystem until it almost snapped the backbone of its most accessible financial channel. By early 2024, the debt banks owed to telecom operators for USSD service delivery had soared to over N250 billion. The situation became a ticking time bomb, threatening to cut millions of Nigerians off from their only access to digital finance.
Now, after years of tension, disruption threats, and regulatory intervention, a new billing model and a debt resolution framework have emerged to restore order. The banks have paid up, and transparency has been restored. Nigerian consumers, who had long been kept in the dark about how much they were charged and by whom, now enjoy a more visible, customer-friendly USSD billing system.
A FRACTURED SYSTEM HIDDEN BEHIND SIMPLICITY OF A CODE
On the surface, USSD banking in Nigeria appeared flawless, a seamless system built on simplicity, speed, and accessibility.
But beneath this elegant surface lay a fractured and unsustainable billing architecture that had been quietly eroding the integrity of Nigeria’s digital financial ecosystem for years. While consumers engaged with USSD platforms effortlessly, a silent war was waging between the two primary service enablers behind the curtain: commercial banks and telecommunications operators.
At the heart of the crisis was a fundamental mismatch in responsibilities and expectations. Telecom operators were responsible for building and maintaining the technological infrastructure, the physical and digital pathways through which USSD commands travelled. They ensured the system’s reliability, invested in network upgrades, absorbed operational costs, and provided the necessary bandwidth to process millions of transactions daily.
In contrast, commercial banks leveraged that infrastructure to offer USSD-based banking services to their customers. They set the service charges, collected the fees, and managed customer access through the platforms hosted by the telcos.
The problem began with the absence of a transparent and enforceable revenuesharing model between the two industries. While banks collected fees from customers for every USSD session, they frequently failed to remit the portion owed to the telecom providers. This created a lopsided equation in which one party bore the cost while the other profited with minimal accountability.
Initially, this imbalance was tolerated. The digital boom of the mid-2010s saw banks and telcos racing to onboard millions of unbanked Nigerians into formal financial systems. The partnership, though informal
and poorly defined, was allowed to function unchecked under the assumption that the benefits of rapid financial inclusion outweighed the cost of temporary billing ambiguities. But as adoption soared, so did the volume of unpaid debts.
By 2019, the debt had already hit N32 billion. Telecom operators began sounding alarms. They warned of systemic exploitation and requested regulatory clarity. By 2021, the amount had risen to N80 billion, and by mid2024, the figure had increased to over N200 billion. Despite years of warnings and failed mediation efforts, many banks continued to delay payments, citing disputes over how the charges were computed or questioning the sustainability of USSD itself.
Telecom operators, frustrated and cash-strapped, began threatening to disconnect non-compliant banks from USSD platforms. If carried out, these threats would have rendered millions of Nigerians unable to perform even the most basic financial transactions, pushing large swathes of the population further into financial exclusion.
Meanwhile, the entire billing process remained opaque for consumers. USSD charges were often deducted without notice, with users receiving little to no breakdown of what they were being billed for. In many instances, customers were charged multiple times for failed transactions or debited after session timeouts.
The long-standing friction reached a boiling point in December 2024. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) issued a joint directive to all banks. Under the new rules, banks were ordered to pay 85 per cent of all debts incurred
after February 2022 by December 31, 2024. They were also expected to clear 60 per cent of their legacy debt by January 2, 2025, and finalise all remaining payments by July 2, 2025, or risk losing their access to USSD platforms altogether.
This was the turning point. The threat of regulatory sanctions, disconnection from USSD channels, and reputational risk sparked action. Within five months, the tide turned dramatically.
According to Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), banks had cleared 95 per cent of the N180 billion debt by mid-June 2025. Only three banks remained on the list of debtors, and all three had entered structured repayment plans. Their final instalments were already scheduled.
Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria, publicly acknowledged the resolution, noting that thanks to regulatory oversight, the telecom companies had “received payments in full” from nearly all banks. With the debt crisis finally nearing its end, a long-awaited structural reform could finally begin.
Out of the ashes of the debt crisis emerged a new framework, the End-User Billing (EUB). The EUB model, developed jointly by the NCC, CBN, and key stakeholders, was designed to eliminate the ambiguity and disputes that had defined the old corporate billing model. It marked a paradigm shift in how USSD services were paid for, one that placed the financial responsibility squarely in the hands of the customers, where transparency could flourish.
Under EUB, each USSD transaction, capped at N6.98 for a 120-second session, is now deducted directly from the user’s airtime balance rather than their bank account. This change ensures that users know exactly how much they are paying when they are paying it, and for what service.
The NCC explained that this move emerged as a consensus option between banking and telecommunications regulators. The previous model, in which banks handled deductions and often failed to remit to telcos, created numerous blind spots for both users and providers.
According to the Commission, EUB “gives customers control over their spending and transparency on what they’re charged.” Users can now opt in or out of the service at their discretion.
The true winners in this transition are the everyday Nigerians who rely on USSD for banking, payments, savings, and survival. For these users, the impact of EUB is both technical and personal. They now have clearer insight into how their money moves, there is less fear of arbitrary deductions, less confusion about transaction failures, and greater accountability from the institutions that serve them.
According to Lynda Saint-Nwafor, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Enterprise Business Officer, customers will not see any change in pricing. “They will continue to pay N6.98 per session as they always have. The only change is in who deducts it and how transparently it will be done.”
Moreover, the NCC has mandated telecom operators to provide standardised end-of-transaction messages, error notifications, and monthly performance statistics to ensure compliance and consumer protection. If a USSD session fails due to a network issue, customers will not be charged. However, if the transaction fails due to the bank’s system, the telco’s side will still process it as successful, and billing will proceed. Both banks and telcos are now required to notify customers of downtime and offer immediate assistance. For users who experience deductions from both airtime and bank accounts due to an issue known as double billing, the CBN has mandated that banks must issue refunds, as only telcos are now permitted to deduct USSD fees under EUB.
The resolution of the USSD debt crisis and the rollout of EUB represent a cultural shift in how digital finance is delivered, managed, and regulated in Nigeria. At its core, the transformation prioritises consumer transparency, institutional accountability, and technological fairness. For a country where millions still lack access to smartphones or reliable internet, USSD remains indispensable. Between January and June 2024, USSD transactions totalled N2.19 trillion, despite a sharp decline from the previous year due to rising mobile app usage. This shows the persistent relevance of the channel, particularly among low-income and underserved populations.
With stronger frameworks now in place, the focus must turn to ensuring continued enforcement, expanding public education, and maintaining user trust. Regulators must remain vigilant, telcos must uphold service quality, banks must maintain transparency, and consumers must stay informed and empowered.
editor:
With the launch of its West Africa office in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, United Capital Plc has become the bridge between Anglophone and Francophone Africa that will unlock shared prosperity across the region through innovation in wealth management, writes Goddy Egene
“We remained committed in our mission to create sustainable value for our stakeholders despite a volatile operating environment. Our focus remains on expanding our market leadership, enhancing innovation, and driving long-term value creation.”
The above were the words of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of United Capital Plc, Mr. Peter Ashade, to shareholders of leading pan-African financial and investment services group, at the 12th annual general meeting (AGM) held in Abuja in April 2025.
United Capital Plc has been a professionally managed business, satisfying the yearnings of all stakeholders. Profit tax after stood at N24.10 billion for the year ended December 31, 2024, showing an impressive 111 per cent jump from NN11.42 billion in 2023. Total assets appreciated by 82.6 per cent to N1.7 trillion. Shareholders went home with a total dividend of N1.40 per share for 2024 financial year.
So when Ashade gave those words of assurance on the commitment to create sustainable value, stakeholders received it with high confidenc. And barely two months after, United Capital Plc has put machinery in motion to ensure that its leading track record is sustained as it has scored another first with the launch of its West Africa office, United Capital Asset Management West Africa Limited(UCAMWAL) in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
Apart from positioning United Capital as a bridge between Anglophone and Francophone Africa, this move is about to unlock shared prosperity across the region through innovation in wealth management.
According to the company, as it opens its doors of its first Africa branch in Abidjan, the economic heartbeat of Côte d’Ivoire, it is doing so with a profound sense of responsibility, excitement, and commitment.
This expansion marks a significant milestone for the Group as United Capital is the first Nigerian investment management group to be licensed by the Financial Markets Authority of the West African Economic & Monetary Union (AMF-UMOA). The group now has licence to conduct investment management services (portfolio management, mutual funds, financial advisory) in Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo. With Abidjan as its regional headquarters, United Capital is strategically positioned to deliver world-class financial services tailored to the region’s dynamic economic landscape.
“We are here not just to participate, but to partner—to bring transformative wealth creation to this region while upholding the highest standards of compliance, transparency, and integrity. With over 60 years of experience in investment and financial services management, we understand that trust is the currency of our industry, and we intend to earn it every single day,” it said.
The launch ceremony, held at the new regional office in Abidjan, was a landmark event, attracting top dignitaries, industry leaders, and prominent figures from across the continent. Among the notable guests were the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama; FrenchIvorian Banker and Chairman of Algest Consulting,
Ibrahim Magassa, Governor of the Bank of Central African States, Yvon Sana Bangui, amongst others.
The Special Guest of Honour and Group Chairman, Heirs Holdings, Tony O. Elumelu, in his goodwill message, praised the milestone as a “history in the making” emphasising the group’s consistency in championing African excellence, leveraging African resources, and building ecosystems that Africans.
He said: “Today marks a significant chapter in Heirs Holdings’ history as we celebrate United Capital’s bold expansion into West Africa. At Heirs Holdings, we advocate Africapitalism: this is a clear demonstration of our belief of Africa’s success led by its own private sector.
He added: “Cote d’Ivoire remains a significant hub for our investments and a welcoming country for investors. I commend President Alassane Ouattara, for his warm welcome. His visionary leadership has supported private sector-led growth. As a Group, we are proud to partner with Côte d’Ivoire in its economic transformation, and we will continue to support critical projects that uplift its communities, urban and rural. We look forward to United Capital Asset Management West Africa pacing up and catalyzing economic development, prosperity, and job creation for Africans.”
United Capital Group board chairman, Chika Mordi said: “The launch of UCAMWAL is a pivotal step in our pan-African growth journey and a reflection of our deep conviction in the strength and potential of Africa.”
“While we have taken steps to expand our regional presence over the years, this marks our first major move, establishing a physical office and regional headquarters outside Nigeria.
“Côte d’Ivoire stands out as a dynamic economy with a progressive financial landscape, making it the ideal gateway to expand our footprint across Francophone West Africa.
“By bringing our proven investment expertise into this market, we are not just scaling our business, we are enabling greater regional integration, facilitating cross-border investment, and contributing to Africa-driven prosperity.”
On his part, the GCEO of United Capital Plc, Peter Ashade, expressed the vision for the new venture, saying:“This expansion is not just about physical presence; it is about impact. We are here to work with local economies, governments, and partners to build a more prosperous Africa. Our vision is Pan-African, and our mission is generational wealth creation and sustainable development.”
He added: “This is the beginning of a legacy. A legacy of wealth transferred, lives enriched, and futures secured. We are here to stay, to deliver, and to write a new chapter in Africa’s financial story of innovation, inclusion, and enduring success.”
According to him, with a robust track record in Nigeria and strong ambitions for the WAEMU region, United Capital Asset Management West Africa Limited (UCAMWAL) is poised to become the go-to investment partner for individuals, institutions, and governments in
Francophone West Africa.
“This expansion cements United Capital’s role as a pan-African powerhouse, dedicated to fostering regional integration, driving investment flows, and shaping the future of finance in Africa,” he stressed.
Sharing company’s long-term vision for the WAEMU region, Director, Africa Operations at United Capital Plc, Mr. Ejikeme Okoli, said: “Our expansion into WAEMU is about more than presence, it’s about impact. We are building a truly Pan-African financial institution that partners with local economies to unlock long-term prosperity. Our strategy is not exploitative but collaborative and will harness local insights to create shared value. We aim to deliver tailored financial solutions, manage risk effectively, and drive inclusive growth across the region. I invite investors to join us on this journey of growth and empowerment, as we stay true to our promise of driving progress, delivering value, and powering economic improvement across Africa.”
The Chief Executive Officer of UCAMWAL, Labas Bamba, said: United Capital Group’s decision to establish its subsidiary in Côte d’Ivoire is not accidental. It testifies to the vitality of the Ivorian economy, its strategic position within the WAEMU region, and a deep belief in the power of African markets and the potential of its people. Abidjan is the ideal base to replicate a proven success model from Nigeria and deliver value across Francophone West Africa. I am humbled to be entrusted with the responsibility of leading this vision.”
The company explained that because it believes in Africa’s potential and as the largest fixed-income mutual fund and the secondlargest mutual fund manager in Nigeria, it has witnessed firsthand the power of strategic investments in unlocking prosperity.
“Now, we bring that expertise hereto deepen capital markets, enhance financial inclusion, and create a sustainable investment culture that will enrich lives today and for generations to come,” it said.
UCAMWAL added that its pillars are: people, process and technology, explaining that “In terms of people, we will invest in local talent, empower communities, and ensure that every stakeholder, from regulators to retail investors, benefits from our presence. In our process, we will deploy global best practices, tailored to the unique needs of the WAEMU region, ensuring efficiency, security, and trust, while technology wise, we will leverage cutting-edge digital solutions to democratise access to wealth-building opportunities, bridging gaps and bringing more people into the formal financial system.”
As part of its commitment to empower investors in its new business zone of Francophone West Africa, UCAMWAL has launched two CFA franc-denominated mutual funds.
The UCAMWAL Bond Fund and the UCAMWAL Diversified Fund. The new mutual funds, denominated in CFA francs, represent a significant milestone in UCAMWAL’s mission
to deliver sophisticated yet accessible wealth management solutions to investors throughout Francophone West Africa.
According to the company, these products have been carefully designed to meet the diverse needs of both individual and institutional investors, offering tailored support to long-term wealth creation while addressing varying risk appetites.
The funds, the company explained, will be available for intending customers across the eight member countriesBenin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo within the WAEMU Region.
Commenting on the significance of the products launch, Ashade, said:
“This product launch signals the kick-off of the expansion of our pan-African footprint, starting with the WAEMU region. As a group, our mission is to shape a more financially inclusive and economically resilient Africa, for Africa by Africans. We are here to make a difference, and we are bringing our proven investment expertise into this market, to support cross-border investment, and support Africa-driven prosperity. This is the beginning of a legacy, for wealth creation, financial empowerment, and a new chapter in Africa’s story of innovation, and enduring success.”
Also speaking at the launch, Bamba said:“Today marks a pivotal step in our mission to reshape asset and wealth management in Francophone West Africa. These funds are tailored to meet the distinct needs of our investors, blending global standards with local market insight. We recognize that every investor’s journey is unique, which is why our solutions are built to support diverse goals across different life and business stages.”
According to him, the launch of these funds comes at a critical time for the WAEMU region, as governments and the private sector increasingly seek innovative solutions to mobilise domestic savings and channel them into productive investments.
“UCAMWAL’s entry into this market is expected to contribute significantly to the development of the region’s capital markets while providing investors with professionally managed alternatives to traditional savings instruments.”
“Backed by a strong track record and trusted legacy of United Capital Plc, which manages nearly N2 trillion in assets and more than $500 million in mutual funds in Nigeria, UCAMWAL is positioned to become a leading investment partner for individuals, institutions, and governments across the WAEMU region,” he added.
The UCAMWAL Bond Fund is a low-risk, open-ended fund that focuses on fixed-income and money market instruments, making it ideal for steady capital preservation and long-term wealth building. This fund is particularly suited for conservative investors who prioritise capital preservation while seeking steady, consistent returns.
On the other hand, the UCAMWAL Diversified Fund provides investors with a balanced risk approach through strategic allocation across multiple asset classes by investing across fixed income assets, money market instruments, and equities.
It is targeted at investors seeking a balance of capital appreciation and income diversification over the long term.
A spectacular and luxury-filled edifice known as The R by Afriland Properties adorns a choice part of i koyi, Lagos. i t exudes grandeur. Bennett o ghifo writes
Housing in Ikoyi is gradually transitioning from grand English-style single-family homes to multi-floor, elegant structures designed for modern times and to maximise land use and space.
Land in Ikoyi does not come cheap, which is the reason real estate investors there spare no expense to create edifices that match or surpass their weight in naira. Rentals here are often dollar-denominated.
One of such edifices, known as The R by Afriland, nestles at 4B Oba Adeyinka Oyekan Street, Ikoyi (formerly Club Road). This unique structure exudes a spectacular view with all the markings of a luxury lifestyle.
The R is a collection of 13 Luxury apartments comprising two-bedroom, three-bedroom, and a four-bedroom penthouse, with a spectacular view and meticulously finished to entertain the
luxury lifestyle, according to Afriland Properties, a prominent real estate investment and development company in Nigeria.
The facility’s living areas are finished in granite, marble, and glazed tiles, complete with intricate lighting.
The bedrooms are extra-large, ensuite, and finished with vitrified floor tiles, intricate lighting, and luxury tile flooring. The toilets feature premium sanitary fittings, and the state-of-the-
art fitted kitchens come with designer cabinetry.
The building features high-end elevators and cooling systems, all of which are maintained by expert facility and property management services.
The R has a well-paved compound with ample parking space, treated water supply, 24-hour power supply, exquisite landscaping with leisure areas, a good drainage system, CCTV, perimeter fence, and 24-hour security personnel.
Oluchi Chibuzor
In a landmark move to bolster electricity access for millions of Nigerians, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and First City Monument Bank (FCMB) have entered into a strategic collaboration to provide a N100 billion loan facility targeted at accelerating private sector-led deployment of renewable energy solutions across the country.
The agreement supports the implementation of the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-Up (DARES) initiative. It will enable the deployment of decentralised renewable energy projects aimed at delivering reliable power to approximately 2,000,000 households in unserved and underserved areas across the country.
The signing of these agreements between REA and FCMB signifies the commencement of
private sector investment in the Rural Electrification Agency’s renewable energy space, which was catalysed by the $750 million DARES World Bank funding. The approval of DARES funding by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, its commencement, and the guidance of the Federal Ministry of Power will undoubtedly lead to increased private sector funding, accelerating the intended impact of supplying electricity to 17.5 million Nigerians in unserved and underserved communities.
Speaking at the event, Managing Director and CEO of REA, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, emphasised the strategic importance of the collaboration. He stated, “This partnership signifies a significant milestone in addressing one of the biggest challenges in decentralised renewable energy deployment—access to finance. Through this facility, developers will have better access to funding
that will enable them to scale and meet electrification targets, thus improving the quality of life in rural and peri-urban communities.”
Managing Director and CEO of FCMB, Yemisi Edun, stated,” Our partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency represents a pivotal step in our commitment to powering inclusive growth and economic resilience across Nigeria. Access to reliable energy is a catalyst for enterprise, education, and improved livelihoods, making it a critical development goal. Through this collaboration, we are combining financial innovation with infrastructure delivery to ensure underserved communities are not left behind. Together, we are building pathways for people to thrive by unlocking the power of energy to transform homes, businesses, and entire communities.”
In a historic development for Nigeria’s maritime sector, the Onne Multipurpose Terminal (OMT) over the weekend received the Kota Oasis, a Singaporean-flagged, LNGpowered container ship — the first of its kind to dock in West Africa.
The environmentally friendly vessel, owned and operated by Pacific International Lines (PIL), represents a significant stride in sustainable shipping. The arrival of Kota Oasis underscores OMT’s commitment to green port operations and reinforces its role as a leading hub for containerized trade in Nigeria.
At 260 meters in length, the Kota Oasis boasts a Gross Registered Tonnage of 78,501 and a capacity of
8,350 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs). The ship, which berthed at OMT at 10:00 hrs, features dualfuel technology capable of running on both LNG and diesel. It also incorporates advanced exhaust gas recycling systems to significantly reduce methane emissions, alongside other features that enhance fuel efficiency and environmental safety.
Speaking during a reception for the ship and its crew, Mr. Nicolo Scannavini, Managing Director of OMT, described the vessel’s arrival as transformative.
“This vessel will be a game changer for trade connectivity between Asia and Nigeria,” Scannavini said. “It’s not only an engineering marvel, but
also a testament to the shift toward cleaner, greener shipping solutions. We’re proud to host the Kota Oasis and look forward to more technologically advanced vessels calling at OMT.”
Also in attendance, Mr. Dhruv Kohli, Head of Operations, Logistics, and Procurement for PIL’s Regional Office, emphasized PIL’s long-term commitment to the Nigerian market.
“This vessel is part of a larger fleet upgrade aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2050,” Kohli stated. “We’re proud to bring one of the most advanced ships in the world to Nigeria, a country that plays a vital role in our South West Africa Service rotation.”
Yikodeen has announced that it will unveil its revolutionary expanded production facility on tomorrow, marking Nigeria’s boldest leap into world-class industrial manufacturing.
The highly anticipated recommissioning ceremony, it said in a statement, will be launched by Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment, who will serve as Chairperson of the Occasion and Chief Launcher for what is now West Africa’s most sophisticated footwear manufacturing operation.
The spectacular unveiling will showcase Nigeria’s most advanced footwear manufacturing facility, a
120,000-square-foot technological marvel engineered to produce 5,000 pairs daily, while providing employment for over 350 skilled Nigerian professionals. This represents a dramatic evolution from Yikodeen’s humble beginnings in 2016, when the company produced just 20 pairs daily, to its current position as West Africa’s leading footwear manufacturer.
Distinguished attendees at Tuesday’s ceremony will include His Excellency Babajide SanwoOlu, Executive Governor of Lagos State, also expected are revered traditional rulers including His Royal Highness, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), the
51st Ooni of Ife, and His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, 21st Olu of Warri, and Felix Omatsola Ogbe, Executive Secretary of NCDMB, all serving as Special Guests of Honor. Chief Host Engr. Ajibola Akindele, MFR, Chairman of Yikodeen’s Board of Directors, will welcome these distinguished dignitaries alongside prominent members of Nigeria’s business community and key industry stakeholders. International partners and investors will join local dignitaries to witness this remarkable achievement in indigenous manufacturing excellence.
In a major stride toward sustainable industrial development, Somotex Nigeria Limited has officially commissioned a new production line for environmentally friendly air conditioners at its factory located in Lagos. The new line, it said, is designed to manufacture air conditioners using R-32 refrigerant, a cutting-edge, ozone- and climate-friendly alternative that supports national climate and energy efficiency goals.
“As you already know, Nigeria has been a party to the Montreal Protocol on substances
that deplete the ozone layer, since 1988 when the country signed the treaty. The protocol stands as a beacon of global environmental cooperation, aimed at protecting the ozone layer by phasing out ozone-depleting substances (ODS). My ministry, as the Designated National Authority for the implementation of the protocol has continued to ensure that Nigeria fulfil its binding commitments under the Protocol, through the completion of activities that have led to the reduction in
the consumption of Ozone Depleting Substances in the relevant sectors,” he said.
The Industrial Development Officer at UNIDO, Dr. Yunrui Zhou, stated: “This project represents a significant milestone under Nigeria’s HPMP Stage III, implemented with support from UNIDO. Through this initiative, Somotex has successfully converted its production line from HCFC-22 to R-32, effectively eliminating over 51 metric tonnes of HCFC-22 annually from its manufacturing processes.”
Kayode Tokede
The market capitalisation of listed stocks on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) advanced by N1.75 trillion in one week, extending to its fourth consecutive week on renewed investor interest, in the Banking, Oil & Gas, and Consumer Goods sectors.
The market cap increase in one week was driven by the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) forbearance directive—eased
following clarifying disclosures from banks, while a softer May inflation print further supported the improvement in overall market sentiment.
The restrictions specifically targeted banks that had breached the Single Obligor Limit (SOL) or had unresolved forbearance loans dating back to the COVID-19 era.
The announcement triggered panic selling across the financial sector, leading to a sharp dip in market value. However, the selloff
was short-lived. Midweek, the apex bank moved to calm nerves by reaffirming the resilience and soundness of Nigeria’s banking sector, which helped restore confidence among investors. This sparked a strong rebound and propelled the market into positive territory.
Specifically, market capitalisation gained N1.75 trillion to close the week at N74.534 trillion, due to the listing of 6.7 million additional shares of Sterling Financial Hold-
ings Company during the week from the company’s rights issue of 7.2 million ordinary shares.
The Nigerian Exchange Limited All Share Index (NGX ASI) rose by 2.35 per cent in one week to close at 118,138.22 basis points, to bring the month-to-date and year-to-date returns settled higher at +5.7per cent and +14.8per cent, respectively.
Sectoral performance was broadly bullish, as the Oil & Gas (+5.3per cent), Banking (+3.6per
cent), Insurance (+2.4per cent), and Consumer Goods (+2.2per cent) indices advanced, while the Industrial Goods (-0.4per cent) index settled lower.
Also, market breadth for the week was positive as 55 equities appreciated in price, 42 equities depreciated in price, while 51 equities remained unchanged. Ellah Lakes led the gainers table by 23.09 per cent to close at N5.33, per share. Beta Glass
followed with a gain of 19.43 per cent to close at N276.00, while Livingtrust Mortgage Bank went up by 18.88 per cent to close to N6.80, per share. On the other side, Northern Nigeria Flour Mills (NNFM) led the decliners table by 17.19 per cent to close at N93.20, per share. Sunu Assurance followed with a loss of 12.81 per cent to close at N4.56, while Oando declined by 11.59 per cent to close at N61.00, per share.
A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.
An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the
floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.
GUIDE TO DATA:
Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 19 June-2025, unless otherwise stated.
Insists frustration is part of APC one-party agenda
Chuks Okocha in Abuja Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday, insisted it will go ahead with its 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for June 30. PDP also accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of overstepping the regulations and guidelines for political parties signed in 2022.
Acting National Chairman of PDP, Ambassador Umar Damagum, had on May 30 written to INEC, intimating it with the forthcoming 100th NEC meeting.
But INEC replied, through the acting
secretary, Harilu Aminu, and told PDP that its communication did not follow due compliance, as the acting national chairman and national secretary of the party ought to sign the letter.
However, addressing the media at the national secretariat of PDP yesterday, the party's National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, said by the recent judgement of the Supreme Court, political parties were allowed to organise their internal affairs.
Ologunagba explained that both the meetings of the National Working Committee (NWC) and NEC were part of the internal affairs of the party.
He stated, “By the PDP constitution,
the NWC meetings hold fortnightly, while the NEC meeting holds every quarter. These are part of the PDP constitution. The meetings of these statutory bodies are constitutional and, therefore, do not require the permission of INEC to hold such meetings.”
Asked why PDP wrote INEC regarding the meeting, Ologunagba said, "We wrote INEC out of mere courtesy that we, as the oldest political party, is holding a 100th NEC meeting.''
He also queried the way INEC delivered the letter to PDP, and stated that the letter from INEC was already in the social space four days before it was sent to the party
Ologunagba said that was part of the All Progressives Congress (APC) one-party agenda.
The spokesman of PDP said the decision to hold the NEC meeting was a decision of the 99th NEC meeting
He stated, “At that 99th NEC meeting, you recall that NEC unanimous scheduled and approved the 30th of June for the next NEC meeting, which is about a week from now.
''That 100th meeting, which is coming on the 30th of June, duly and unanimously convened by the NEC. And of course, there was a communique read at the end of that meeting, where the chairman of the party conveyed
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja
The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to unlocking inactive and untapped energy assets as a cornerstone of its strategy to boost national crude oil and gas production.
Speaking during a visit to TotalEnergies’ headquarters in Paris and the company's Research Institute in Pau, France, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, said that Nigeria would continue to encourage investment in its hydrocarbons.
“Unlocking dormant fields is not optional. It is vital to our energy security and economic growth,” Lokpobiri was quoted as saying in a statement by his spokesperson, Nneamaka Okafor.
The minister’s visit, conducted at the invitation of TotalEnergies, formed part of a broader engagement with operators and policy makers and comes as TotalEnergies prepares to unlock several assets, including blocks awarded in the most recent bid round as well as previously held fields.
Lokpobiri emphasised that
President Bola Tinubu has issued a clear and unequivocal directive for all industry players who are interested in the country's oil assets.
“Mr. President has made it explicit, operators must reactivate dormant assets,” he added.
As policy maker and supervisor to regulatory bodies, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, he said, is actively supporting this national mission.
The minister added: “We are driving this mission with every dedication required, and I am glad to see TotalEnergies taking the bold steps to unlocking their inactive
and untapped assets.”
During the Pau visit, the minister was briefed in the institute’s ‘Smart Room and Support Centre’, where state-of-the-art exploration and monitoring technologies were demonstrated.
The federal government, he said, remains resolute in ensuring that operators like TotalEnergies receive all necessary policy, financial, and technical facilitation, adding that the revitalisation of inactive assets is central to Nigeria’s energy agenda - promoting job creation, strengthening revenue, and securing energy sovereignty.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Lack of basic amenities in various satellite towns and suburbs of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, is fast constituting a major health risk, a development expert, Mr. Timeyin Uwajamomere, has said.
For instance, Uwajamomere said that studies have shown that 30 percent of people residing in communities within the FCT lack access to portable water and modern toilet facilities.
Uwajamomere who is the Chief Executive Officer of Mangrove and Partners Limited, said the situation
has led to many of the inhabitants engaging in open defecation and poor sanitary practices.
Speaking on the outcome of a survey carried out by his organization in Mpape - one of the Satellite Towns in the FCT, Uwajamomere said lack of portable water, poor state of sanitation in Mpape has serious implications for the health of not just the people in the areas but Abuja City centre itself.
While presenting the Mpape Sanitation Baseline Assessment Report and CWIS Performance Improvement Plan in Abuja on Friday, Uwajamomere said most of the communities in the area lack
access to portable water, sanitation, drainage and road infrastructure.
Uwajamomere said the poor state of sanitation and living condition of the people in Mpape constitute a health risk.
Speaking further about the study report, Timeyi said: "The findings from the study is an example of the kind of situation that we are finding across Abuja; so it is not just Mpape - it is a multiple of communities, almost hundreds of communities".
According to him, the situation in Mpape is similar to what obtains in most satellite towns and growing slums within the FCT, adding that
most of people without decent places of abode have resorted to open defecation
His words: "You see, the issues we are discussing doesn't respect boundaries, territories or households.
"We are talking about sanitation and water issues. We are looking at the poor state of sanitation in Mpape - a nearby slum neighborhood to the Abuja City centre.
"The poor state of sanitation in Mpape has serious implications for the Abuja City centre itself. For the residents of Mpape it's a dire situation, they live in squalor.
the resolution.
''You’ll recall at that meeting, two other critical decisions were taken. One, the constitution of the main officers of the zoning committee, and of course, the convention committee.
''And the NWC was directed to begin in consultation with various organs of the party and stakeholders and interests to ensure the population of those committees.
“So the 100th meeting is to have a review of this process. And so, our members, the members of the National Executive Committee are ready, and they're preparing, from the fillers we're getting, that they're ready to participate actively at the next National Executive Committee meeting, which is being scheduled by the NEC for the 30th day of June.”
Ologunagba added, “There are two major bodies in the party, the NWC and the NEC, that are required under the constitution. Under section 29, subsection 3 of the constitution of the party, I just want to bring you up to speed with this, so that you have a background of our understanding of how we operate as a party.
''The National Working Committee, under section 29, 3, is expected to meet
at least twice a month, every fortnight, because they are the managers of the party. Then section 34, subsection 4, talks about the National Executive Committee meeting.”
Highlighting the provisions of the PDP constitution, Ologunagba said, “The National Executive Committee shall meet at least once every quarter at the instance of the National Chairman or at the request of a third of NEC members who shall notify the Chairman at least seven days prior to this meeting and an emergency meeting may be summoned by the National Executive Committee.”
He said, “At that meeting, a motion moved by the governor of Oyo State, seconded by the minority leader in the Senate, Senator Abba Moro, was approved that the 100th meeting should take place.
“And then there was a further direction that INEC should be informed by way of courtesy. It must be clear that INEC has no role whatsoever in participating in regular meetings of these bodies that I've drawn to you. They have no role at all.
“And then you can see some of the distressing things coming from INEC, which, of course, is very unfortunate.
Pollution: HYPREP Eulogised for Implementing UNEP Report in Ogoni
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), has been commended for implementing the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Report on Ogoniland in Rivers State, following the age-long environmental degradation resulting from series of crude oil pollution in the area
The commendation was made at the 2023-2025 Midterm Stakeholders Engagement and Scorecard Presentation organised by HYPREP, held in Port Harcourt, at the weekend.
The stakeholders comprised of traditional rulers, political representatives, captains of industry, religious leaders, youths and women from across the four local government areas of Ogoniland (Elelme, Gokana, Khana and Tai), and other parts of the country attended the
meeting.
A member representing Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency, Dumnamene Dekor said the HYPREP currently led by Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey has shown commitment in ensuring the speedy cleanup and restoration of the degraded area.
He acknowledged that HYPREP is currently tackling the myriads of challenges facing the Ogoni people, urging the stakeholders and youths to take ownership of the projects.
"Let me say that by my own assessment, the HYPREP we have today is doing their job with renewed vigour and I say that with all sense of responsibility.
“But particularly, let me thank Professor Zabbey for driving the activities of HYPREP the way he's doing with so much passion and also the Honourable Minister for Environment, Balarabe Abbas.
The federal government has pledged full support to a $400 million Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) plan to build Africa's largest rare earth and critical minerals plant in Nasarawa State, potentially creating over 10,000 jobs nationwide.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, lauded the project funders Hasetins Commodities Limited for keying into the value addition campaign of President Bola Tinubu's administration and confirming that mineral processing is the strategy to take the jobless from the streets. Hasetins hopes to add 12,000 metric tonnes to its current 6,000 metric tonnes installed capacity as
preparations for the forthcoming groundbreaking of the additional facility gathers momentum.
Noting that it represents a significant milestone in efforts to spur investor confidence in the mining sector, Alake said the establishment of the plant would promote skills transfer and boost the contributions of the solid minerals sector to the economy.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Managing Director/CEO of Hasetins Commodities Ltd, Prince Jidayi Ijudigal, and his team, Dr. Alake applauded the company for its strategic foresight and patriotic investment in a $400 million rare earth metals plant, commending Hasetins for aligning its operations with the federal government’s drive for in-country processing
Chuks Okocha in Abuja Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu “to urgently refer the situation in Benue State to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the court to exercise its jurisdiction over the violence and unlawful killings and other serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law in the state.”
SERAP also urged the president to “consider referring the situation of other recurring and ongoing violence and other serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law in other states of Nigeria or requesting the ICC
prosecutor to extend any current investigations on Nigeria to cover the situations in those states.”
Professor James Ayatse, the Tor Tiv and the state’s paramount ruler had reportedly stated: “What we are dealing with here in Benue is a calculated, well-planned, full-scale genocidal invasion and land-grabbing campaign by herder terrorists and bandits, which has been going on for decades and is worsening every year.”
In the letter dated 21 June 2025 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Your government has a primary responsibility to ensure accountability and justice and reparations for these grave human rights crimes.”
SERAP said: “Referring the situation in Benue state to the ICC would contribute to achieving your expressed commitment to ‘hunt down the perpetrators of the attacks and bring them to justice, deliver justice for victims and restore peace in the state.’”
According to SERAP, “Accountability for these brutal mass killings is urgently needed, regardless of whether the perpetrators are state-actors or non-state actors or both.”
The letter, read in part: “The referral by your government of the situation in Benue to the ICC would bring the situation to the attention of the Prosecutor to determine whether human rights and international crimes
have been committed in the state and to identify those most responsible.
“Any reluctance to refer the situation in Benue to the ICC would continue to embolden perpetrators - state actors and non-state actors alike to continue to attack the people of the state with impunity. Many of those responsible for these brutal attacks have continued to evade justice.
“Given the alleged complicity of state actors in the situation in Benue and other states witnessing cases of serious human rights violations and crimes under international law, domestic avenues have shown to be both insufficient and inadequate to achieve accountability and justice to the victims and their families.
Item Community, in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the siting of Federal University of Medical & Health Sciences on its land.
Within the week, President Tinubu signed into law a bill establishing the Federal University of Medical & Health Sciences, Item.
In a letter of appreciation, Item community, under the aegis of Item Development Association (IDA), signed by Sir Onwuka Orji, President General; Bishop Dr. Sunday Ndukwo Onuoha, Chairman of IDA Board of Trustees and High Chief, Sir Akwari Ukpabi, IDA Grand Patron, praised President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and kind-heartedness in siting the university in their community.
The community said: "This singular act, coming at a time when Nigeria faces a pressing need for accessible
and high-quality medical education, is nothing short of transformative.
“Your Excellency has, through this noble gesture, not only planted a seed of educational excellence in our soil but also offered our children and generations unborn a beacon of hope and opportunity."
The letter affirmed that the "Federal University of Medical & Health Sciences, Item, will be a notable institution in the South East geopolitical zone and the entire nation.
“It will serve as a hub for academic excellence, research innovation and healthcare delivery. It will also create employment, stimulate local economy and place our dear community on the national and global map of medical advancement."
The community said that the presence of the university in its land "will touch every home, every heart and every hopeful eye in Item. Indeed, our
gratitude knows no bounds. Sons and daughters of Item, both at home and in the diaspora, celebrate this news with emotion-filled hearts and prayers of thanksgiving. It is a dream come true.
"For decades, we have yearned for such intervention—and today, it has become reality, thanks to your magnanimity and people-centred governance."
Item people also commended the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Benjamin Okezie Kalu, for his "tireless efforts, legislative acumen and unwavering commitment to his constituency," which led to the successful sponsorship and passage of the bill.
The community said that Hon. Kalu has proven to be "a true son of the soil and a shining light of representation. His name shall forever be etched in the history of Item."
Item people enjoined President
Tinubu to also ensure "early appropriation for the university project and the commencement of construction work so that this noble project would be completed within your first tenure of office."
They promised full cooperation for the actualisation of this project, pledging: "We are ready to cooperate with the authorities to indicate the exact site of the university in our community as well as any other thing that may be required."
The community said that its people will remember President Tinubu's gesture with reverence and pride, promising that "the people of Item will guard this legacy, nurture it and ensure it blossoms into the great and life-changing institution it is destined to be.
"We pledge our continued support as you work to build a better, stronger and more inclusive Nigeria."
and beneficiation of minerals.
“I’m glad our ongoing engagements have culminated in this groundbreaking initiative. With your collaboration, we are now witnessing the establishment of the largest rare earth and critical metals plant in Africa, right here in Nigeria.
On behalf of the President, the Ministry, and the Nigerian people, I commend your commitment to this vital sector. Your patriotic zeal confirms that our policies are on the right track and producing tangible results,” Alake added.
In his remarks, Prince Jidayi expressed deep appreciation for the minister’s leadership and reforms, which he said have significantly improved investor confidence and streamlined access to the mining sector.
“We have observed the introduction of mining marshals to combat illegal mining and reforms that have simplified the licensing process. These efforts have directly influenced our decision to invest heavily in this project. Beyond this flagship plant, we are also establishing regional separation plants and empowering local communities and miners,” he said.
JAMB
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced Saturday, June 28, 2025, as the date for the conduct of its mop-up Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
According to a statement signed by the Board’s Public Communications Advisor, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, on Sunday, the mop-up examination was being organised to accommodate 5,096 candidates who could not be verified biometrically during the main exercise conducted earlier.
The JAMB spokesman, who noted this applies strictly to the 2025 UTME cycle, said the mop-up examination is also for another 91,742 candidates, who were absent in either the main or the rescheduled examinations.
In total, 96,838 candidates have been scheduled to sit for the mop-up examination across 183 ComputerBased Test (CBT) centres nationwide.
A few others are on standby pending further investigation and validation of their status.
“This examination will
Prince Jidayi noted the company’s model ensures early-stage beneficiation by preseparating metals locally, generating immediate income for artisanal miners.
The initiative also includes training, provision of protective equipment, and broader community engagement.
Also speaking, Hasetins’ Director of Corporate Affairs, Peter Butt, commended Dr. Alake for bringing renewed purpose and structure to the mining sector. He emphasised the minister’s strong emphasis on local value addition reinforced the company’s decision to invest in sustainable, community-driven development. Hasetins Commodities Ltd specialises in producing critical metals essential for high-tech applications and defence systems, including rare earth metals and Platinum Group Metals (PGMs). The minister reaffirmed the federal government’s full institutional support for the project, underscoring its alignment with the ministry’s vision of transforming Nigeria’s solid minerals into a cornerstone of industrial growth and economic diversification.
accommodate the 5,096 spill-over candidates and those who failed biometric verification during the main exercise. Also, due to the special dispensation granted to absentee candidates of the main and resit examinations, 91,742 candidates who were absent in both or either of the main and resit examinations would also be given this opportunity which is only for 2025 UTME.
“Thus 96,838 candidates are being rescheduled for the 2025 mop up exercise in 183 centres across the nation while others are kept on standby,” he stated.
The Board said it has continued its crackdown on examination malpractice and technical incompetence among CBT centres. Following infractions observed during the mock, main, and resit UTME examinations, several centres have come under scrutiny. In line with the outcome of ongoing investigations, a total of 113 CBT centres have now been either suspended or delisted from further participation in JAMB activities, according to the statement.
Describes attacks as cowardly, unacceptable Orders security to get rid of criminals
Wants those responsible for Plateau dastardly act brought to book by police, other agencies Says freedom of movement not negotiable Slain travelers buried amid tears
Northern govs decry killings Obi to President: You’ve no reason not to visit Yelewata Troops of army 22 armoured brigade arrests 8 suspected kidnappers, rescue two victims
Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha in Abuja, Hammed Shittu in Ilorin, Segun Awofadeji in Gombe and Seriki Adinoyi in Jos
President Bola Tinubu has condemned weekend's suicide bombing in Konduga, Borno State, as well as the lynching of 12 wedding guests travelling from Zaria, in Kaduna State, to Jos, the Plateau State capital.
Tinubu, in a statement issued on Sunday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also sympathised with the families of those killed or injured by an explosion on Saturday morning in Kano.
Expressing anguish over the suicide bombing in Konduga, Tinubu mourned those who lost their lives, describing the attack as cowardly.
He urged the security agencies to double their efforts in routing remnants of the Boko Haram insurgents, who resorted to attacks on soft targets in diversionary tactics.
The president condoled with the government and people of Borno
State over the incident and directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to support survivors.
The explosion at a scrap metal factory affected 15 people, with five of them losing their lives.
The president stressed the importance of workplace safety measures and tasked relevant government institutions with investigating the incident.
Tinubu, also yesterday, condemned the killing of travellers in Plateau State, urging security forces to ensure the arrest and punishment of the culprits.
Reacting to the news of the murder of 12 wedding guests, including the father and brother of the groom, the president, in another release by Onanuga, described the action as unacceptable and barbaric.
The victims, many of them injured, were travelling from Zaria to Jos.
Tinubu directed the Nigeria Police to work with other security and intelligence agencies to ensure that those responsible for the attack were held accountable.
The president called for calm, promising not to allow the dastardly
Kuni Tyessi in Abuja
Plan International Nigeria and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), have identified some major gaps in the 2025 budget, particularly as it affects the lives of women and girls.
At a news conference in Abuja, the Country Director, Plan International Nigeria, Charles Usie, emphasized that gaps exist between national priorities and actual allocations which also includes youth, and persons with disabilities.
Usie, represented by the Director of Programme, Quality and Innovation of the organisation, Dr. Helen Idiong, said the budget makes no direct provision for contraceptives or comprehensive Sexual Reproductive Health Right services, despite welldocumented needs around adolescent pregnancy, family planning, and gender-based health access.
According to him, ''Furthermore, only N1.06 billion is earmarked for
menstrual hygiene support across all ministries.
"To effectively meet the needs of 10 million girls experiencing period poverty, we estimate a minimum of N120 billion annually.
''Despite a large youth population and the national commitment to free and compulsory basic education, over 19.9 million children remain out of school.
"Yet, the budget allocates only N1.21 billion to girls’ education, most of it tied to physical infrastructure, less than 20 per cent of that supports enrolment, retention, or targeted programs for vulnerable girls,'' he said.
He added that N745.5 billion had been budgeted for youth development, noting that this was significant, the implementation design remains largely transactional: item-based empowerment schemes like sewing or grinding machines dominate.
act to go unpunished.
He stated, "The government of Plateau State must take decisive action in handling these vicious cycles of violence. The state government must work with security agents to get to the root of this recent incident and use it as a deterrent against future occurrences.
"Freedom of movement by all citizens is non-negotiable. We will not tolerate any attempt by anyone or group of people to curtail that fundamental freedom through acts of extreme violence and fear."
Tinubu commiserated with the victims' families and the people and government of Kaduna State.
The eight victims of the Friday night mob attack in Mangun District of Mangu Local Government Area, Plateau State, were laid to rest at the Hayi Muslim Cemetery in Mangu amid tears.
The deceased, including women and children, were part of the 31 travellers who were on their way from Zaria to Qua'an Pan in Plateau State for a wedding ceremony.
They, reportedly, lost their way and stopped to ask for directions when they were mobbed.
The burial took place amidst tight security. Religious leaders said the victims’ families consented to the burial in Plateau to avoid tension in their home communities.
Before the funeral prayers, Sheikh Suleiman Haruna, who led the rites, urged residents to accept the incident as the will of Allah and refrain from seeking revenge.
He praised security agencies and local leaders for responding quickly to the crisis.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed deep shock and sorrow over the tragic mob action and promised to bring perpetrators to justice.
Mutfwang, who visited the survivors in the hospital and the scene of the incident, expressed grief and described the mob action as totally condemnable and avoidable.
Plateau Initiative for Development and Advancement of the Natives (PIDAN) also condemned that attack and sympathised with Kaduna State Government and the families of victims.
In a statement by its secretary, Danjuma Auta, PIDAN said, "This is so painful knowing full well what human lives mean to the Plateau man and also the freedom of movement as enshrined in our constitution.
"The act is completely condemnable and does not represent the nature and character of the Plateau man.”
Northern Govs Condemn Killing, Demand Swift Action
Chairman of Northern States Governors' Forum (NSGF) and Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Yahaya, in condemned the gruesome killing of innocent travellers from Kaduna to Plateau State.
According to a press release issued by Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House, Ismaila Misilli,
Yahaya expressed sorrow over the loss of lives, describing the incident as a barbaric and cowardly act that has no place in a civilised society.
“I am deeply saddened by this horrific and inhumane attack. Such mindless violence against innocent citizens is unacceptable and must be met with swift and decisive justice,” the governor said.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kaduna State, particularly the bereaved families and others affected by the attack.
The governor prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for comfort to their families in this difficult time.
Yahaya commended authorities in Plateau State and security agencies for their quick response, particularly the arrest of suspects linked to the incident.
He called for a thorough investigation and prompt prosecution of all those involved to ensure that justice was served.
“The perpetrators of this heinous crime must be brought to justice without delay. This is not just about accountability; it is about restoring faith in the rule of law and protecting the rights of every Nigerian citizen,” he added.
The NSGF chairman also appealed to residents of Plateau, Kaduna, and neighbouring states to remain calm and law-abiding, and avoid any form of reprisal.
He stated, “Let us not allow the actions of a few to divide our communities or ignite further violence. I urge everyone to exercise restraint and
patience as authorities work to ensure justice is served.”
Yahaya reaffirmed the commitment of the northern governors to collaborate on strengthening security, promoting peaceful coexistence, and addressing the root causes of conflict and insecurity across the region. He said, “The safety and security of our people remains our top priority. We will continue to work together as northern governors to strengthen community relations, improve intelligence sharing, and ensure such tragedies never happen again.”
Obi to Tinubu: You’ve No Reason Not to Visit Yelewata Despite Flood and Bad Road
Presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in 2023, Peter Obi, said President Bola Tinubu had no reason not to visit Yelawata, Benue State, where over 200 persons were massacred in their sleep by suspected Fulani herdsmen. Tinubu was in Makurdi, the state capital, last Wednesday but could not visit the scene of the attack because of flood and bad road.
But Obi reminded the president that one of the consistent principles of leadership was the willingness to make ultimate sacrifices and take risks.
“A true leader does not make excuses or complain; he shows up, sacrifices, and provides solutions, especially in difficult times,” Obi said, in a statement on his X platform.
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Director General of the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Major General Garba Wahab, has said the military's primary role was to defend the nation against external threats and quell insurrections, with training focused on combat and tactical operations.
He said their expertise lay in high-intensity conflicts, not internal security or law enforcement, explaining that internal security, maintenance of law and order, and civilian protection typically fell under the purview of
other agencies, such as the police, trained for these specific tasks.
General Wahab, in a chat with THISDAY, said: "We believe that it is cheaper, easier, faster to deploy the military. So we keep on deploying them both. We are failing to realise that they have a responsibility which is different.
“You can not continue to use them in internal security because they are not meant to maim people. They are meant to kill. By deploying, you are wasting resources. It is a monumental waste we are having right now."
He, however, advocated further training for the police and other agencies saddled with internal security to enable them to perform their functions, so that the military could be withdrawn to barracks to build capacity relevant to modern warfare.
"We must find a way of training those whose job it is to maintain law and order, as well as other internal security operations in society, to enable them to take over from the military.
That is why I spoke about process and procedure. We must start putting the
process in motion because, even if the military are not trained for internal operations, they are already deployed. "So, do you want them to remain? If you don't want them to remain, who is going to take over? You must start training those who are supposed to take over. Therefore, if you don't effect corrections on these identified gaps now, we will continue to go round and round, and the same problem will continue to manifest."
He stated that there are issues with the nation's security architecture that must be corrected.
L - R Medical Officer of Health, Epe Local Government Area, Dr. Leke Awolesi; Medical Officer, Eredo Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC), Dr. Alabi; Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Health District 3, Dr. Monsurat Adeleke; Director, Environmental Health Services, Mrs. Anjorin Bola; and Director, Medical Services and Disease Control, Dr. Adenike Oguntuase, during the distribution of Bin Baskets and colour-coded Bin Bags to Eredo PHC... recently
Nume Ekeghe
Access Holdings Plc has been named the Nigerian Tier 1 bank with the strongest asset quality, following its industry-low nonperforming loan (NPL) ratio of 2.76 per cent, according to Proshare’s 2025 Tier 1 Banking Report.
The report, titled “The Class of 2025: Getting Bigger, Bolder, and Dominant”, ranked Access Holdings second overall in the Tier 1 category, placing just behind Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), which led with a percentile score of 100.
Access Holdings followed closely with a 91st percentile ranking, ahead of Zenith Bank at 73 percent, FirstHoldco at 82 percent, UBA at 64 percent, and GTCO at 55 percent.
In terms of NPLR performance, Access Holdings maintained a remarkable 2.76 per cent, outperforming Zenith Bank at 3.54 per cent, GTCO at 4.07 per cent, UBA at 3.80 per cent, ETI at
6.25 per cent, and FirstHoldco at 6.70 per cent.
This places Access Holdings at the forefront of asset quality management among Nigeria’s top banks and reaffirms its reputation for operational discipline amid market volatility.
In a statement commenting on the achievement, Acting Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings PLC,Bolaji Agbede, said: “This ranking is not just a measure of our financial health; it reflects the strength of our governance, the quality of our decision-making, and the focus we place on long-term value creation. It is a testament to the discipline of our people and the effectiveness of our pan-African strategy.”
She added: “At Access Holdings, we believe that sustainable success lies in balancing growth with resilience. We will continue to execute with precision, build with purpose, and innovate with integrity as we expand our presence across Africa and beyond.”
Folalumi Alaran in Abuja
As the world evolves with emergence of technological advancement, stakeholders in the global marketplace has charged African leaders to invest in capacity building to ensure efficiency at workplace and active in decision making.
The Founder, Metropolitan Church and Chief Executive Officer, MAIME Foundation, Manasseh Dogon, while speaking over the weekend in Abuja at the Marketplace Leadership Conference, stated that despite emerging innovations, African leaders are yet to accept the importance of re-invention and personal re-invention.
Dogon noted that African leaders must be active in decision making and not be deterred by their color or race and not underestimate their capabilities and positions as best among world leaders.
"Leaders in Africa are yet to accept the importance of re-invention, personal re-invention. We don't invest in capacity development.
"Hence, the essence of this conference is to be able to help us, to be able to develop ourselves, to reinvent ourselves, to develop our capacity, mentally as leaders, not for good to be very efficient in our respective industries and systems.
"Now, the problem of Africa is most of us look at ourselves as an inferior race based on the reflection of our colors. We must understand that
we are all part of the decision-making process, understand that regardless of you being in Black in Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana or Togo, it does not reduce your capacity," he added.
Continuing, Dogon emphasized that the function of ethics and truth at global marketplace is underrated by African leaders but noted that the conference seeks to teach young leaders how to be ethical, their approach to business, while understanding the biblical principle that emphasizes doing to others as should be done to themselves.
"Now, when talking about business from a global perspective, we must understand that the function of ethics has been so underrated by Africans. We are not ethical.
"When it comes to being ethical and understanding how to relate to the corporate system, we are not ethical. We are not men of our word. We say one thing and we mean another.
"As leaders, I believe that being ethical is going to take us help us to be able to understand how to be able to engage leadership and business globally," he added.
Also speaking, Professor of Education Leadership, Akin Akinpelu, on his part advocated for change in the current school curriculum which he described as obsolete but noted that should be revised to meet the basic needs of Nigerian youth and make them employable.
The 2025 edition of the Proshare Bank Strength Index (PBSI) introduces a recalibrated framework that reflects the realities of the ongoing recapitalisation exercise in Nigeria’s banking sector.
This edition goes beyond traditional financial metrics and incorporates broader determinants of profitability, stability, and stakeholder value.
The PBSI model emphasises capital adequacy and scale, asset quality and sustainable growth, digital transformation and earnings diversification, governance quality and board diversity, as well as profitability and cost-efficiency.
Access Holdings demonstrated strong fundamentals across all these parameters. It closed Full Year 2024 with total assets of N41.5 trillion and a loan book of N13.1 trillion.
The Group’s capital adequacy ratio stood at 20.46 per cent, while asset growth for the period reached 55.49 percent. Its cost of risk was held at 1.25 percent, net interest margin recorded at 6.80 per cent, and earnings growth was an impressive 88.05 percent, all indicators of a business built on financial soundness and execution excellence.
Speaking at the launch event, Olufemi Awoyemi, Chairman of
Proshare, described the report as a vital mirror into the shifting dynamics of Nigeria’s financial services industry.
“Access Holdings has proven itself as a strong, adaptive institution. Its robust capital base, successful fundraising, and continental expansion efforts show a group that is not only growing but evolving. As recapitalisation reshapes the banking landscape, institutions like Access Holdings will continue to define the future of finance in Africa.”
He further remarked on the nuance behind ETI’s top ranking, noting, “ETI remains a unique case
due to its pan-African structure and relatively limited regulatory exposure within Nigeria. Unlike Access Holdings and other locally regulated groups that must meet the N500 billion recapitalisation threshold, ETI’s broad regional footprint dilutes its local obligations. That distinction must be made when interpreting rankings.”
The report concludes that the Class of 2025, particularly Access Holdings, Zenith, UBA, FirstHoldco, GTCO, and ETI, dominate the banking landscape in terms of capital strength, asset size, loan portfolios, and governance quality.
Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has sounded the alarm on the devastating impact of drug abuse on families, describing it as a menace that must be tackled collectively.
She made the call while leading an awareness walk to commemorate the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The event, organised by MTN Foundation in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), drew attention to the urgent need for awareness and action against substance abuse.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu said, "Drug abuse is destroying a lot of families out there, the youth, the elders, and the grandparents. We need to work together to kick this menace out of Nigeria."
According to Dr. Sanwo-Olu, the
Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has promised to tighten the noose on criminal elements that dare to carry out their nefarious activities in the state.
He said the state had been jolted by security breaches recorded "in the last few days" at parts of Umunneochi, Ugwunagbo and Isuikwuato Governments, hence the need for tougher action on the hoodlums.
Otti stated this during his monthly media chat for June,
issue of drug abuse is very important, and it's not just a problem in Nigeria or Lagos State, but a global problem. "We have the highest rates in Lagos, but it's actually a global problem," she said. "That doesn't mean that we should cut ourselves on the back. We need to work together to ensure that we kick this menace out."
The event highlighted the importance of collective action in addressing the problem of drug abuse and the need for sustained awareness and education efforts.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the government cannot do it alone and that everyone has a role to play in the fight against drug abuse. "We can't do it alone," she said. "The government can't do it alone. The private sector can't do it alone. So, we need to work together to ensure that we kick this menace out of Nigeria."
The campaign's theme, "Say No To
saying a soldier was killed when security agents raided a camp of dare devil criminals operating at Ugwunagbo LG.
"They (security agents) recovered so much, and unfortunately we lost a soldier," he bemoaned, adding that, "The casualties on the part of the criminals were a whole lot, including the people we arrested. And we brought down the camp."
The Abia governor had earlier in his administration launched "Operation Crush", a combined security operation with which the insecurity situation that existed
Drugs And It's Everybody's Business," resonated with participants, who pledged to join the fight against drug abuse. As the First Lady led the awareness walk, she urged Nigerians to join forces to combat drug abuse and promote a healthier society.
As Dr. Sanwo-Olu said, "Let's work together to kick this menace out of Nigeria.” With collective action and determination, it is possible to create a society that is free from the scourge of drug abuse.
The awareness walk and campaign aim to mobilise young people and communities against drug abuse, promoting a healthier and safer society for all. As Dr. Sanwo-Olu aptly put it, "No to drugs, yes to life."
Dr. Mosun Belo-Olusoga, Chairman of MTN Foundation, echoed the First Lady's sentiments, emphasising the importance of prevention. "If people know, or students know, or children
at Umunneochi and Isuikwuato axis was brought under control.
However, he noted that the hitherto routed criminals appeared to be rearing their ugly heads "to the extent that one of our commissioners was attacked on the stretch between Umunneochi and Umuahia stretch of the Enugu-Port Harcourt express way.
The attack on the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, according to the state police command, occurred at Ezinachi axis, which falls within Imo State.
know how to say no to drugs, then as adults, they won't be addicted to drugs. Cut it from the roots and ensure that everybody knows that drug abuse will be detrimental to their future progress", she said.
Dr. Belo-Olusoga also highlighted the role of peer pressure and idleness in driving drug abuse. "I think peer pressure is a major factor," she said. "For some people, it's also idleness. And you know, peer pressure, you want to belong. You want to be happening."
Prof. Ifeoma Okoye, Director of MTN Foundation, added that the fight against drug abuse must extend to the family level, involving parents and communities in the conversation. "We need to take this down to the family level," she said. "We need to get parents into this conversation, and it doesn't have to be only parents in urban centres, in rural communities."
Otti announced with gratitude that the attacked Commissioner "somehow" managed to escape unhurt, prompting government to take drastic action to beat back the resurgent security breaches.
"So what we have done is to double our efforts and make sure that we secure Umunneochi. And those who come from there will agree that in the last few days, things have changed drastically.
"It is our strong opinion that everything we do will succeed or fail on the altar of security, or lack of it thereof. So, we take security very, very serious."
L-R: Social Secretary, Lagos Polo Club, Tunde Aka-Bashorun; Treasurer, Olumide Soyombo; Staff Welfare Member, Olumbe Akinkugbe; Catering Member, Ade Dania; Secretary, Adeyemo Oreagba; Pony Welfare Member, Naomi Durosaro; President, Adeyemo Alakija, First Vice-President, Tunji Ashiru; Grounds Member, Yinka Alakija; Bar Secretary, Hakeem Adeniji-Adele; Second Vice-President, Kunle Tinubu, and Other Games Member, Fred Allison, during inauguration ceremony of the new executive members at the Club’s 2025 Annual General Meeting held in Ikoyi, Lagos…recently
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
The Nigerian Navy has vowed to sustain war against pipeline vandalism and oil theft in the Niger Delta region.
The Commander of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, Commodore Cajethan Aniaku, made the vow at the weekend when he led officers and ratings of the base in the Nigerian Navy’s Second Quarter Route March
around the Rumuolumeni axis of Rivers State.
The commander reiterated the navy’s commitment to sustaining the war against crude oil theft and economic sabotage in the Niger Delta and other parts of the country.
He charged the personnel and ratings to remain dedicated to their duties in serving the nation.
According to him, “We are very committed and well prepared to dominate our waterways in Rivers
A Saudi- designated Nigerian Hajj air carrier, Flynas, has transported over 61.1 percent of its allocated pilgrims back to Nigeria in one week.
This was revealed by the Managing Director, First Planet Travels and General Sales Agent (GSA) of Flynas in Nigeria, Alhaji Umar Kaila.
A statement signed by the airline’s information officer, Umma Salama Kyaure, yesterday quoted Kaila as saying that “Flynas has airlifted 8,051 pilgrims back to Nigeria within one week out of the 13,188 allocated to it by the country this year.”
“We have airlifted all the pilgrims from Osun and Ogun states safely back home on Saturday. And we have also completed the airlift of Lagos state pilgrims back to Nigeria by Sunday,” Kaila said.
The Flynas chief said the 8,051 pilgrims were transported back to Nigeria by Flynas in 19 flights.
Flynas, which was allocated pilgrims from Osun, Lagos, Ogun, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi and the Federal Capital Territory, started the second phase of the pilgrims airlift on Friday, June 13.
Gbenga Sodeinde in ado ekiti
The Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), which has been previously ranked among world universities as No. 1 in Nigeria for four consecutive years, for 2022, 2023, 2024 and now 2025 has emerged as one of the World best 100 universities.
The acting Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Olasupo Ijabadeniyi, who made this known at a press conference in Ado-Ekiti over the weekend, disclosed that the development was announced by the Times
Higher Education Impact Rankings, in its 2025 reports.
Ijabadeniyi pointed out that this outstanding heights were made possible as a result of the resilience, hard work and Frankenstein leadership of renown legal icon and elder statesman, who doubles as the Founder and Chancellor of the Institution, Afe Babalola SAN.
The VC also attributed the feat to the tireless efforts of the Vice- Chancellor, Prof. Smaranda Olarinde, as well as commitment and cooperative attitude of both staff and students.
Michael Olugbode in maiduguri
The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) has awarded Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum with its prestigious media friendly award.
The event was held on Saturday in Abuja, to mark the 70th anniversary of the union.
Zulum had won multiple awards in the past owing to his outstanding achievements and style of leadership. Some of the
earlier awards were the NUJ Good Governance Award, 2024; NUJ Most Promising First Term Governor in 2019; Forbes Magazine African Leadership Award, 2024, among others.
In his remark shortly after receiving the award, Governor Zulum, represented by his acting Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Mallumbe, expressed gratitude to the union for the recognition bestowed on him as the “MediaFriendly Governor.”
State and equally deny criminal elements freedom to operate.
“We have been doing that and we are going to sustain it and ensure that we maintain
our presence in our waterways and equally on lands too.
“I therefore charge the personnel to remain dedicated to their duties and serve this nation with their
heart and mind.”
It was observed that the 10 kilometre route march which kicked off from the naval base in Rumuolumeni, saw personnel
and ratings, alongside other sister security agencies marched to and fro the entire stretch of Akar road, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the state.
The Managing Director of Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, has said the enactment of a holistic national transport policy would help drive sustainable transportation in Nigeria. He also called for a new strategic national rail transportation and logistics master plan to drive rail transportation development and growth in the country.
Opeifa disclosed this at the 11th yearly Transport Day lecture in Lagos, which had in attendance some captains of industry, the academics and other industry stakeholders.
The NRC boss, in his paper: ‘Sustainable Transportation System in Nigeria: A path to economic prosperity’, explained that though Nigeria is not performing poorly on sustainable mobility indices, the sector could achieve more with a proper framework for sustainable mass transit operations.
He also called, among others, for the establishment of the Ministry of Transportation by all the state governments, a review of the current integrated infrastructure master plan, as well as an integrated strategic transportation master plan that would encompass rail, water, air and road by all the state governments.
Michael Olugbode in abuja
The Majority Leader of the Nigerian Youth Parliament, Hon. Ridwan Barade, has called for the outlaw and criminalisation of marriage of male or female under the age of 18.
Speaking at a National
Roundtable Dialogue with high-level policy makers in commemoration of the Day of the African Child 2025 organised by the African Youth and Adolescent Network on Population and Development (AfriYAN) Nigeria and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Abuja, Barade
said: “A child who is not yet done with education, who doesn’t even have the intellect of herself, is already in a house giving birth to children, which is very wrong, and if we don’t change that narrative, then we won’t be able to move forward as a country.”
He added: “The normal age for an adult is 18, so I believe if we can have a rule that you can’t marry before 18, then I believe we’re going to have what we’re looking for,” stressing that “the government should make a rule that no parent should give their child out before 18.”
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bsssey Edet Out, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leveraging hydrographic science to boost maritime development and drive economic growth in the state.
He emphasised the transformative potential of hydrography in regional development especially for coastal states like Cross River. The governor, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made this declaration during the World Hydrography Day 2025 commemoration in Abuja. He said: This year’s theme, “Seabed Mapping: Enabling Ocean Action,” resonates deeply with our commitment to leveraging hydrographic science for sustainable maritime development, security, and economic growth,” He said. “As a coastal state, Cross River recognizes the indispensable value of accurate seabed mapping in unlocking the vast potential of our blue economy.”
Commending the Nigerian Navy and the National Hydrographic Agency (NHA) for their role in the recent Bakassi Deep Sea Port Survey, Otu said: “We are particularly grateful for the recent conduct of the Bakassi Deep Sea Port survey, a landmark initiative that underscores the importance of precise hydrographic data in driving infrastructural development and regional trade. This effort aligns with our vision to position Cross River as a hub for maritime excellence and economic transformation.”
Chinedu Eze
Travel and aviation experts have declared that for Nigeria to realise its full potential in tourism, it must establish a national carrier to buoy the sector.
The experts spoke at the just concluded Aviation Summit 2025 conference themed, ‘Governance Strategies for Aligning Aviation Development with Sustainable Tourism Goals,’ and they noted that all the countries that have developed their aviation industry in Africa have national airlines.
The Secretary to Enugu State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, has urged the people of Igbo-Eze North LGA and the people of Enugu State at large, to continue to support the State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, in his efforts to transform the state. He assured the people of the governor’s pledge of equitable
Currently, the projected revenue contained in a global travel industry database released by Statista, indicates that Nigeria’s travel sector will generate about $2.953 billion by the end of 2025 and the revenue is expected to rise to $3.746 billion by 2027.
However, the experts said that the revenue would multiply if a national carrier is established to support the sector.
Travel expert and organiser of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ambassador Ikechi Uko, in his presentation said that some countries establish national airlines to use them and support tourism and trade and gave example with South Africa Airways (SAA), which has recorded losses over the years, but the airline has supported tourism and trade that rake in billions of dollars to South Africa economy every year.
and transparent development of the coal-city state remains not only unbroken but also “very realisable.”
One of Governor Mbah’s campaign promises is to move Enugu from a $4 billion economy to $30 billion through quality (ICTbased) education; infrastructure upgrade to create a business-friendly environment to attract both foreign
and local direct investments; quality healthcare delivery and security of life and property.
Speaking at the Igbo-Eze North Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Maiden Conference 2025, held at the Local Government Pavilion, Ogrute, Enugu-Ezike, Onyia, the keynote speaker who spoke extempore and largely in Igbo, while reeling out the Mbah administration’s achievements in the areas of physical and social infrastructure construction/reconstruction, education and healthcare delivery, told the people that with their support and encouragement, the Mbah’s administration would not only accomplish its already stated objectives but would even do more.”
NTT Global Destinations (NGD), a tourism and trade firm, and the Embassy of Brazil in Nigeria are set to host a special cultural diplomacy evening tagged ‘Around the World in a Bottle - One Sip at a Time’ on Thursday, June 26 in Abuja. The event, will be hosted to
welcome delegates from Africa and other parts of the world to Abuja for the Afroeximbank‘s Annual General Meeting (AGM), the AU MSME Summit, and key bilateral business dialogues.
It’s coming as part of the activities to unwind in a week
described as a key business week in Abuja.
According to the organisers, the event will be an evening of cultural storytelling through global beverages and taking guests across the six continents.
“The week’s discussions in Abuja are shaping Africa’s economic future. This event adds a cultural dimension to those efforts reminding us of the role that shared heritage, hospitality, and storytelling play in building stronger ties,” said Elizabeth Agboola, CEO of NGD.
shows. Some parties had their registration certificates cornered by one person, who claims to own the party. “Democratic” parties in Nigeria often dispense with regular meetings, strip party organs of their key functions, trample on the party’s constitution and rules, adopt a top-to-bottom approach to policy making, anoint rather than elect officials, and party organs “endorse” some people as “sole candidates” years before primary elections.
In Nigeria, the first [and quite often, the last] thing people ask for when they hear about a new political party is, “who are its leaders?” Political names, rather than symbols, manifestoes or programs are the most important success factors for Nigerian political parties. This game was played adroitly by the political parties of the Second Republic. Upon its founding in September 1978, Unity Party of Nigeria [UPN] gained instant traction in some parts of the country soon as it was revealed that Chief Obafemi Awolowo was its leader. Peoples Redemption Party [PRP] gained instant traction in some states when Malam Aminu Kano took the podium in Kaduna and announced its formation [some of its leaders later said the earlier agreed name was People’s Revolutionary Party, but that Malam Aminu unilaterally changed it to Redemption as he climbed the podium].
Nigeria Peoples Party [NPP, before it split into NPP and GNPP] was struggling at the time to gain traction by revealing its leaders as Alhaji Waziri Ibrahim, Chief Solomon Lar and Paul Unongo. This was in NPP’s early days; soon afterwards, old First Republic NCNC men flooded in and invited the titanic Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe to come in and take over its leadership.
National Party of Nigeria [NPN] then arrived with a very big bang. It unveiled as its leaders a long list of nearly one hundred persons, from all over the country, including First Republic and military-era ministers, prominent technocrats, diplomats and academics as well as recently retired soldiers and policemen. Such as, former Federal Commissioner of Education Dr. Ahmadu Ali, Gowon-era Police Inspector General Kam Salem, former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Clement Isong, not to forget Chief Jerome Udoji, then an adored household name in Nigeria due to the juicy Udoji salary award of 1974.
ADA played the same game at the weekend. Among its promoters are such high-profile politicians as Atiku Abubakar, the close runner-up in the 2023 presidential election, and Mr. Peter Obi, a close third-place finisher in the same elections. Also listed as ADA’s promoters are former Senate President David Mark, former Rivers State governor and Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi, former
Osun State governor and Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola, former Edo State governor and APC
National Chairman John Odigie Oyegun, former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Sokoto State governor and House of Representatives
Speaker Aminu Tambuwal, former Attorney General and Minister of Justice Abubakar Malami, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawan, former PDP National Chairman Uche Secondus, and former Minister of Aviation Osita Chidoka. When all these men depart to ADA, PDP and LP will soon be hollow, and their remaining governors and MPs must decide what to do. It is an impressive list, but politically speaking, it falls short of the All Progressives Congress’ [APC] political gunfire of 2013. Whereas ADA’s grand entry now relies on the stature in politics of its individual leaders, APC brought together three full-fledged political parties [ACN, ANPP and CPC] as well as a major faction of APGA led by then Imo State governor Rochas Okorocha. In total it had 13 sitting governors; ADA so far has none. APC subsequently got a powerful boost when a faction of the ruling PDP, called nPDP, defected to it with five sitting governors. Quite likely, major factions of PDP and LP will defect
to ADA when it is registered. In the next year or two, disgruntled APC elements could also defect to ADA, especially after next year’s primaries.
ADA leaders must have thought carefully about the party’s symbol, which is very important in Nigerian politics. PDP having cornered the umbrella, APC cornered the broom while Labour Party cornered the wheel logo, ADA leaders amalgamated some items, the most curious being the corn. They described it as a commitment to food security. In the Second Republic, corn was a central item in NPN’s “house and maize” symbol, which the party tried to actualise through the Green Revolution program, with limited success.
ADA described itself in documents submitted to INEC last week as “a transformational political force with a clear moral compass, inspired by the enduring symbolism of a corn – food security and national prosperity. Our emblem – flanked by the Red, Blue and Green – encapsulates our mission – i.e. to sow the spirit of sacrifice, energy and bold leadership to create public order and responsible leadership that would in turn enable self-reliance and prosperity on the basis of justice and national unity.” A clear moral compass is certainly needed in Nigeria, but it does not come cheap. Such a claim must be buttressed by the force of
This means that Nigeria cannot afford to alienate either side. It must craft a nuanced diplomatic language that upholds its historical solidarity with Palestine while preserving its growing strategic relationship with Israel. It also has to navigate its broader relationship with the Islamic world, which includes key oil-producing allies in the Middle East like Saudi Arabia and the UAE—countries that are themselves carefully managing their stakes in the Israel-Iran drama. All this unfolds while Nigeria also depends on the West, particularly the United States and European Union, for development assistance, security cooperation, and trade.
Nigeria’s diplomatic stance on the Israel-Iran conflict may not significantly alter global outcomes, but it must be carefully calibrated to prevent internal unrest, diplomatic fallout, or reputational harm. Silence, ambiguity, or outright bias could ignite tensions at home or weaken strategic partnerships abroad. A clear, principled voice that calls for deescalation, protection of civilians, and respect for international law may be Nigeria’s best option.
The possibility that this conflict might escalate into a broader regional war is very real. Should the United States choose to launch direct attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities—or if Iran’s proxies such as Hezbollah, the Houthis, or Shia militias in Iraq step up hostilities—there could be a cascading effect involving multiple regional and global actors. Such a scenario would send oil prices soaring well past $120 per barrel, destabilise maritime routes like the Strait of Hormuz, and unleash a wave of economic, political, and humanitarian crises that would reverberate across the globe.
For Nigeria, the implications would be immediate. Escalation means higher global risk aversion, reduced foreign investment, rising credit costs, and potential disruptions to international trade, particularly in refined petroleum products. Furthermore, regional escalation would lead to increased Western military engagement, further entrenching U.S. and European interests in the Middle East and possibly diverting attention and resources away from African security challenges, such as the Sahel insurgency, piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, and democratic backsliding in West Africa.
There is also the danger of ideological spillover. Nigeria, like many African nations, is not immune to the influence of radical religious narratives. An intensified Middle East conflict could embolden extremist rhetoric among fringe groups in Nigeria, feeding into existing tensions and undermining national security. The more the region becomes radicalised by foreign grievances, the harder it
becomes to sustain Nigeria’s fragile religious harmony.
This underscores the need for Nigeria to strengthen its intelligence and border control capabilities, monitor ideological infiltration, and insulate its domestic narrative from imported conflicts. It also suggests that Nigeria must be more proactive in multilateral diplomacy—working with the African Union, ECOWAS, and international partners to advocate for de-escalation and peaceful resolution.
One of the more cynical realities of modern geopolitics is the profitability of war. The Israel-Iran conflict, like many before it, activates a global defence economy—particularly centred around the U.S., where the military-industrial complex thrives on instability. Every missile launched, every defence shield deployed, and every infrastructure project destroyed and rebuilt becomes a commercial opportunity for arms manufacturers, defence contractors, and reconstruction firms. The result is a self-reinforcing cycle in which war fuels business, and business, in turn, incentivises prolonged instability.
This pattern is not lost on observers in the Global South. Nigeria, a resource-rich but infrastructurepoor country, should be cautious about relying
personal example and personal history. General Muhammadu Buhari had this record when he first waded into politics in 2002. By the time he served two terms as president, it was in tatters. ADA’s Vision Statement said it is out “to establish a united, just, fair and progressive Nigerian state founded on democratic ideals, social equity, economic self-reliance and scientific progress.” This word “progressive,” which forms the core of APC’s name, is suspect in Nigeria these days. In a situation where “progressives” became more ardent free-marketers than conservatives, ended all state subsidies, engaged in wholesale currency deregulation and showed autocratic tendencies, “progressive” has lost its lustre in Nigerian politics. A promise to be fair and just also sounds suspect to anyone who has been around in Nigeria for a while and has seen many governments come and go. In the 1970s when I was growing up in Sokoto, a story made the rounds that when a new Military Governor arrived in the state, he visited Sultan Abubakar III and said he was here to correct all the wrongs. The aging Sultan, very secure after four decades on the throne, reportedly said, “Even the other one said the same thing when he first came.”
ADA’s red, blue and green is an odd combination of colours, though each one is meant to represent something. Probably, there was a struggle within the Alliance program drafting committee, headed by David Mark, before this amalgam of colours was adopted. Internationally, red colour symbolises left-wing politics, socialism, communism and revolution. None of the ADA leaders is known to be left-wing, including Peter Obi, who drops Chinese figures at the drop of a coin. Green, which also features prominently in Nigeria’s national flag, is probably meant to indicate a devotion to agriculture. Internationally, blue colour denotes peace, and is the United Nations’ choice colour. UN’s peace keepers in the world’s trouble spots always spot blue helmets. ADA leaders are however out to cause disruption, rather than peace, on the Nigerian political terrain.
Party slogan is very important in Nigerian politics. When party leaders mount the rostrum during rallies, they repeatedly shout the party’s name while supporters respond with the slogan. ADA’s adopted slogan is “Justice for All.” We all want justice, surely, but they will do better to shorten the slogan to one word or two for ease of sloganeering by party thugs. It looks like ADA has met the legal and political mark to earn registration, so INEC should please hurry up and register it. Only then will we know whether it is “All,” “Democratic” or even an “Alliance.”
its vandalised pipelines, restore confidence among international oil companies, and support indigenous players. Clear fiscal terms under the Petroleum Industry Act must be enforced and simplified to remove ambiguity. With production levels at 1.3 million barrels per day—well below potential—there is room to grow responsibly and transparently. But more importantly, this is the time to channel revenues into transformational infrastructure. Funds should be directed toward stable electricity, modern rail networks, agricultural value chains, and digital infrastructure. This includes supporting local refining through modular refineries.
At the same time, Nigeria must demonstrate fiscal responsibility. Revenues should be used to rebuild the Excess Crude Account, pay down expensive external debt, and introduce legal frameworks that limit excessive recurrent spending.
Most importantly, Nigeria must stop pretending that commodity booms are equivalent to economic growth. Proper growth requires the development of human capital, the rule of law, institutional reform, and policy continuity. It requires investing in people and systems that can withstand the inevitable bust when oil prices crash again. Because they always do. Any windfall from the Israel-Iran conflict may be unearned, but what Nigeria does with it will be the most accurate test of leadership.
too heavily on global instability as an economic stimulus. Rising oil prices may temporarily swell government coffers, but they are not a development strategy. Countries that rely on geopolitical chaos to grow their revenue become addicted to volatility and unprepared for long-term planning.
Moreover, this cycle of conflict reinforces geopolitical blocs and divides the world into transactional alliances. The more Nigeria appears to benefit from war passively—without articulating its long-term interests or building internal productive capacity—the more it risks being seen as a peripheral player in a world order defined by power politics. The war economy is seductive but ultimately unsustainable. Nigeria must avoid being pulled into its orbit.
The short-term benefit of this crisis—a spike in crude oil prices—should be treated with strategic sobriety. If the Nigerian government sees this windfall as a new lease on life for its oil-dependent model, it will only delay the inevitable reckoning. Instead, this moment should be used as a pivot: to increase oil production where possible, reduce infrastructural leakages, and reinvest earnings into non-oil sectors.
Nigeria should urgently ramp up efforts to repair
Ultimately, the lesson Nigeria should draw is one of providence tempered by prudence. The sudden windfall from rising oil prices triggered by the Israel-Iran conflict offers a narrow corridor to shore up finances, invest in the future, and strengthen institutions. But it also carries a warning: depending on episodic spikes driven by external instability is neither sustainable nor ethical. Actual resilience demands focusing on governance reforms, economic diversification, and social cohesion so that when the next shock—whether geopolitical, climatic, or technological—arrives, Nigeria’s economy and polity are better equipped to absorb it.
In the unfolding drama between Tehran and Tel Aviv, Nigeria may feel tremors in its markets and society, but it must direct its fate by using any temporary gains to build enduring foundations rather than chasing transient gains born of conflict. There is no oil price high enough to replace good governance. No foreign war is sufficient to substitute for domestic vision. As the world watches the Middle East burn, Nigeria must look inward, ask hard questions, and act with clarity because the real conflict isn’t just between Israel and Iran. It’s between what Nigeria could become—and what it will settle for.
Duro Ikhazuagbe
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), has expressed shock over the decision of sprinter Favour Ofili to dump Nigeria for Turkey.
Ofili’s switch was made public by Jamaica-based journalist, Kayon Raynor, on his X handle late Saturday.
“Nigerian sprinter, Favour Ofili, has switched allegiance to Turkey as of May 31, 2025. According to TVJ News centre sources, 22-year-old Ofili has advised the Athletics Integrity Unit of her frustration with the Nigerian Athletics Federation,” Raynor posted via X.
But yesterday, President of the AFN, Chief Tonobok Okowa, expressed the shock of the federation on Ofili’s decision to dump Nigeria.
“If this is true, it is sad, disheartening and painful but we are yet to get any official statement from her or any correspondence from World Athletics (WA), on her request. She is a promising athlete with huge potential,” observed the AFN chief.
Okowa stressed that both the AFN and NSC have been working hard to get the country’s track and field back on stream.
“The AFN and the National Sports Commission (NSC), have been working hard to get athletics and other sports in the country back on track and to show that both bodies are matching goals, objectives and words with action, Favour Ofili had already been paid her
training grant for this year,” Okowa revealed.
Okowa further hinted that all attempts to reach Ofili by the AFN since after the Paris 2025 Olympic Games where she was denied the chance to run 100m has been frustrated.
“From the moves we have been making to get her fully prepared and back to the big athletics family and her response, it’s also clear that she had been preparing and working on her new found Turkish love.
“She is old enough to decide what’s best for her but it painful and hard to take for us, however we will not stop her, she is still our child, sister and daughter,” the CAA Vice President stressed.
“We want to apologize to Nigerians, the National Sports Commission and the millions of people around the world who hold the sport and country in high esteem for this sad development,” Okowa further pleaded.
Ofili’s issues with the AFN began with her refusal to compete at the 2024 African Championships in Cameroon. She refused to compete in the 100m after running in the heats, claiming that the organisers did not provide the right atmosphere for competition. She also did not turn up for the last Africa Games in Accra, Ghana.
Ofili, 22, holds the national 200m women’s record with 21.96s and personal best of 10.78s, performances she did in 2022.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons, aiming for a 10th continental gong at the 13th Women Africa Cup of Nations taking place in Morocco next month, will take on the senior women national team of Portugal in a friendly match in Lisbon today.
The Falcons’ contingent flew out of the Federal Capital, Abuja to Casablanca yesterday morning aboard a Royal Air Maroc flight, and then travelled to Lisbon.
After appearing at the Portuguese and Moroccan embassies during the week as part of the procedure for visa processing, the nine-time African champions trained at the MKO Abiola National Stadium on Thursday evening, and at the Turf Arena on Friday and Saturday, in preparation for Monday’s encounter.
Goalkeepers Chiamaka Nnadozie and Tochukwu Oluehi, experienced
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has won the 4th Japanese Ambassador’s Karate tournament with 7 Gold, 5 Silver and 3 Bronze Medals
Anambra State came in Second with 6 Gold, 6 Silver and 2 Bronze, while Bayelsa State was Bayelsa State was Third with 4 Gold, 2 Silver and 1 Bronze Medals.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the competition in Abuja, the Japanese Ambassador in Nigeria,
defender Osinachi Ohale, midfielder Christy Ucheibe and forward Francisca Ordega were among those that worked out under the guidance of Head Coach Justine Madugu and his assistants.
US-based defender Michelle Alozie, Saudi Arabia-based Ashleigh Plumptre, captain Rasheedat Ajibade and fellow midfielders Halimatu Ayinde, Jennifer Echegini and Toni Payne, as well as forwards Esther Okoronkwo, Rinsola Babajide and Chinwendu Ihezuo will team up with the team at the training camp in the Portuguese capital.
Monday’s encounter will take place at the Estádio José Gomes in the Amadora precinct of Lisbon, and will commence at 7pm Portugal time (same time as in Nigeria).
Ghana’s Black Queens are also in the Falcons’ radar, as both teams are set to clash in another friendly match in Morocco on Sunday, 29th
Hideo Suzuki, said his country is happy to sponsor the tournament as a token of a contribution to sport development in Nigeria.
He said: “It is a great honour for me to be able to attend the 4th Japanese Ambassador’s Tournament in Nigeria today. I am proud that we can continue this wonderful tradition, providing a platform to showcase the impressive skills and spirit of Nigeria’s karateka.”
He added that: “I was deeply impressed by not only the skill, but also profound human character, and
June, days before the kick-off of the continental finals.
The Falcons tackle Tunisia, Botswana and Algeria in group B of the competition, with the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca as venue.
SUPER FALCONS FOR 13TH WAFCON FINALS:
Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (just finished contract with Paris FC, France); Tochukwu Oluehi (Shualat Alsharqia FC, Saudi Arabia); Rachael Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons)
Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy); Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA); Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies FC, Saudi Arabia); Sikiratu Isah (Nasarawa Amazons); Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray Sportive, Turkey); Miracle Usani (Edo Queens)
passion for karate. Indeed, every participant here has embodied the fundamental principles that make karate more than just a sport: discipline, integrity, respect for one’s opponent, and the relentless pursuit of self-improvement and excellence.
“To the athletes, congratulations on your wonderful performances.
The strength you cultivated in the dojo will surely serve you well in life and in your communities.
The success of this tournament is a testament to the collaborative
Midfielders: Rasheedat Ajibade (just finished contract with Atletico Madrid, Spain); Halimatu Ayinde (FC Rosenburg, Sweden); Deborah Abiodun (Dallas Trinity, USA); Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint Germain, France); Toni Payne (Everton Ladies, England); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal)
Forwards: Francisca Ordega (Ittihad Ladies Club, Saudi Arabia); Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Ifeoma Onumonu (Montpellier FC, France); Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada); Asisat Oshoala (Bay FC, USA); Omorinsola Babajide (Coasta Adeje Tenerife Egatesa, Spain); Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, China); Chioma Okafor (University of Connecticut, USA)
spirit of many people.
“My heartfelt thanks go out to Nigeria Karate Federation, officials, coaches, judges and all those who worked behind the scenes to make this event possible.
Next month, Nigeria will host the first-ever African Karate Championship. I understand this is a remarkable achievement, and I offer my heartfelt congratulations on this milestone. I am confident that the success of this tournament will contribute to the further development of karate at the regional level.”
The maiden edition of the Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF) National Table Tennis Championships is set to begin today, at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
This two-day tournament is part of NSSF’s ongoing efforts to provide students across Nigeria with a platform to showcase their talents, to identify and nurture future stars for international competitions.
According to Secretary General of the NSSF, Dr. Oba Funsho Usman, the championship is designed to expose young players to competitive match experience within the country as a foundation for international grooming.
“We are fully aware of
Nigeria’s rich pool of sporting talent. At NSSF, our goal is to create a level playing field for students nationwide to showcase their abilities. This tournament is not just about competition—it’s about giving every student a chance to be seen, supported, and developed into future stars,” said Dr. Usman.
He further emphasized that the event aligns with the federation’s broader mission of preparing students for elite-level competition beyond Nigeria’s borders.
“We’ve invited teams from across the country, and we’re confident this will provide a valuable platform for athletes to test themselves against their peers.”
The Chairman of the Nigerian National League (NNL) Board, Mr George Aluo, has commended the Delta State Government for accepting to host the Super 8 playoff, even as he confirmed that the Playoff will take place at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba between July 5th and 12th.
Speaking after a meeting with the Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Mr Solomon Oborevwori, Aluo said he was excited that the Delta State Government agreed to host the Super 8 play off to cap off an extra ordinary season of the second tier of Nigerian league.
“I am happy to confirm and announce that the Super- 8 play off
will take place at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba Delta State from 5th to 12th July to determine the eventual champion of the 2024/ 2025 season alongside those to be promoted to the Premier League.
“We are so grateful to the Governor of Delta State His Excellency Rt Honourable Sheriff Francis Oborevwori for accepting to host the play off. He has once again demonstrated his love for the Nigerian National League. We look forward to a very exciting event as the best 8 teams from the regular season converge on Asaba, Delta State. If the standard of the regular season was so high, then what lies ahead in the Super 8 promises to be super fantastic.”
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has expressed deep satisfaction with the sterling performances of Team Edo athletes at the ongoing Para-Powerlifting and Karate tournaments in Abuja.
In a statement released by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele described the athletes’ exceptional achievements as a clear testament to Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to grassroots sports development in the state. According to him, “No fewer than five Team Edo athletes out of 12 national lifters at the Nigeria Para-Powerlifting
Open National Trials in Abuja have broken world records in their respective categories.” He singled out Tolulope Ogundolie for special praise, noting that she emerged best lifter in the 45kg female category with a record lift of 110kg, surpassing the previous standard of 95kg. In Day 3 of the trials, Esther Oyema lifted 127kg in the 55kg
Former Speaker of the
of
For the second time in three years, an emergent name on the Nigerian political scene reminded me of a cutting from an American newspaper that Dr. Haruna Sanusi gave me in Sokoto in the 1980s. Reverend Jerry Falwell’s right-wing, televangelical Moral Majority movement was making waves in the US at the time. Years before its eventual collapse in 1989, the author of the article wrote with the headline, “Moral Majority is Neither.” I am thinking of the All Democratic Alliance [ADA], the new political association founded by opposition chieftains in this country, which applied to INEC for registration late last week. Media reports described ADA as “a coalition comprising politicians from multiple parties and ideological backgrounds.” Did the coalition describe itself as such, or did reporters make this up? In this world, a political party formed by people of different ideological convictions is a recipe for chaos. Maybe a national liberation front could be made as such, but not
Atiku
a political party, which seeks to acquire power around a certain program, which in turn is rooted in ideology.
The acronym ADA is cleverly designed to place the party near the top of the ballot paper. Starting your name with an “A” is clever; alphabetically, AD is ahead of APC. This is important because in Nigeria, the ballot paper is often very long and some voters are not patient enough to go searching for a party’s name and symbol close to the bottom.
ADA’s name did not ring an instant bell, though it appears to be an amalgam of bits and pieces of successful names in the Nigerian terrain. Some political parties in this Republic borrowed names directly from previous parties, such as SDP and PRP, while one party, APGA, slightly amended the name UPGA from a First Republic AG/NCNC political alliance. ADA’s name is however an amalgamation of name elements in this Republic.
“All” featured in the name of All Nigeria Peoples Party [ANPP], which at one time ruled nine states. When it melted into APC, it took the “All” along with it. On the other hand, “Democratic” featured prominently in the name of PDP, which ruled at the federal level for sixteen years and at one time ruled in 25 states. “Alliance” features in the name of All Progressives Grand Alliance [APGA], under whose banner Peter Obi ruled Anambra State for eight years. ADA leaders also tout their coming together as an alliance to drive out APC after 12 years in power at the federal level by 2027. ADA’s biggest aspiration, far as I can see from the name, is to be “democratic.” Too many Nigerian political parties claimed to be democratic, only to degenerate into autocracies or even one-man
Continued on page 38
When Israel launched Operation Rising Lion in the early hours of June 13, 2025, most Nigerians were asleep. The footage came in fragments—precision airstrikes, sirens over Tel Aviv, defiant chants in Tehran. Within hours, Iran responded with Operation True Promise III, unleashing waves of drones and missiles toward Israeli positions. It was dramatic, brutal, and all too familiar: another chapter in the long, looping narrative of Middle Eastern conflict. But the shockwaves didn’t stop at the borders of Iran or Israel. They travelled through global oil markets, diplomatic corridors, and geopolitical nerves—and in their wake, Nigeria began to feel the tremors.
By the end of that first week, crude oil prices had jumped sharply. For Nigeria, an oil economy in all but name, this was both a relief and a riddle.
Higher oil prices meant more dollars from exports, more money flowing into government accounts, and—at least on paper—a budget easier to balance.
After all, oil still accounts for more than 90% of Nigeria’s export earnings and approximately half of the government's revenue. With the 2025 budget benchmarked at $75 per barrel, any sudden climb toward $100 looked like a gift from chaos.
But nothing is ever that simple. The same price surge that may pad Abuja’s pockets may also punish everyday Nigerians. The cost of diesel, already elevated due to subsidy removals and pipeline vandalism, may rise further. Transporters may hike their fares. Manufacturers facing higher energy costs may pass them on to consumers. Tomatoes, noodles, cement—everything cost more.
The Central Bank, still trying to steady the naira and tame inflation, has hinted at another interest rate hike. What began as a geopolitical explosion
thousands of miles away may be shaping monetary policy in Abuja and emptying wallets in Enugu. It was a familiar paradox: Nigeria, rich in oil, drowning in cost.
The Israel-Iran conflict touches nerves far beyond the battlefield, and for Nigeria, it activates a complicated web of diplomatic, religious, and geopolitical considerations. First, Nigeria’s identity as a multi-religious nation plays an outsized role in how it engages with conflicts in the Middle East. With a large and politically active Muslim population, especially in the northern regions, Nigeria must be mindful of public sentiment. Historically, Muslim-majority countries across Africa have taken strong stances on Palestinian liberation and opposed Western alignment with Israel. Domestic political actors and Islamic clerics in Nigeria often echo this sentiment, making neutrality a high-wire act for Nigerian diplomats.
Furthermore, Nigeria has long held an official position that supports the Palestinian cause, often voting in favour of Palestinian self-determination at the United Nations and other multilateral platforms. This legacy shapes its foreign policy and regional affiliations, including membership in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). However, over the past decade, Nigeria has also established discreet but critical bilateral relations with Israel, particularly in the areas of technology, security, counterterrorism, agriculture, and water management. Israeli companies have participated in developmental projects in Nigeria, and security cooperation has included counter-insurgency support in the fight against Boko Haram, Piracy and banditry.
