Shareholders endorse deal
Tinubu, Southwest governors, ex-governors, traditional rulers, others honour installation Economy has turned the corner, your suffering will soon be over, president declares
Ojulari lauds Ogoni re-entry, acknowledges NSA’s role $5bn Train 7: NLNG, NCDMB celebrate 122 graduates of HCD advanced training programmes
Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) yesterday announced a cumulative remittance of N8.86 trillion to the Federation Account between January and July 2025, underscoring its growing role as the country’s fiscal anchor despite persistent industry challenges.
This emerged as the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG), in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB),
disclosed that they have achieved a major milestone in the Nigerian Content development commitment, with the close-out of the $5 billion Train 7 Project Human Capital Development (HCD) Advanced Training Programme.
According to the NNPC’s Monthly Financial and Operations Report for August 2025, the company also declared a profit after tax of N539 billion for the month, backed by steady crude oil and gas output, stronger product availability, and improved operational efficiency across its
facilities.
This was an increase against the N185 billion declared in July, but a slump from the N905 billion declared for its June operations and a further drop from the N1.054 trillion recorded in the previous month of May.
Besides, Nigeria's crude oil and condensate production averaged 1.65 million barrels per day in August, representing a 2.9 per cent dip from July’s 1.70 million bpd. From January to August, output fluctuated between 1.57 million bpd and 1.70 mbpd, reflecting the lingering impact
of pipeline disruptions, crude theft, and deferred production linked to scheduled and unscheduled maintenance. The upstream pipeline availability was nevertheless strong, averaging 96 per cent in August. In sales terms, crude oil and condensate exports reached 22.37 million barrels in August. This was lower than the 25.49 million barrels sold in July, a decline of 12.2 per cent month-on-month. However, on a cumulative basis, NNPC has sustained an average of 22.8 million barrels per month in 2025, keeping foreign exchange
inflows relatively stable.
Gas production remained robust, hitting 6,949 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d) in August. This represented a 10 per cent decline from the July peak of 7,722 mmscf/d but was broadly in line with the year’s performance trajectory.
Gas sales stood at 4,201 mmscf/d for August. This was lower than the 4,978 mmscf/d posted in July, reflecting lower offtake by some power and industrial customers. On a year-to-date basis, sales averaged 4,400 mmscf/d, ensuring steady
Oba Rashidi Ladoja, a former Governor of Oyo State, has finally seen his lifelong dream fulfilled as he was yesterday crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, marking a historic moment in the city’s rich cultural journey.
The former Senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District, revered for his resilience and commitment to Ibadan’s traditions, ascended the ancient throne to the jubilation of indigenes and admirers who had long anticipated his coronation.
For many, his emergence was not just the crowning of a monarch but the affirmation of Ibadan’s enduring heritage and the triumph of patience, destiny, and cultural pride.
The stool of Olubadan, which is the supreme leadership position in Ibadan, was founded in the 19th century and characterised by a unique merit-based rotational succession system rather than hereditary rule, which alternates between the civil (Otun) and military (Balogun) chieftaincy lines.
This system ensures experienced, seasoned leaders from any social class ascend through the chieftaincy ladder to the Olubadan title, symbolising Ibadan's cultural unity, continuity, and rich traditions as the paramount ruler.
The centuries-old succession tradition is widely regarded as one
of the most orderly and rancourfree systems in Yorubaland.
For Ladoja, his journey to the Olubadan throne, which began 32 years ago, when he became a Mogaji, which means the head of his extended family compound, saw him climb 22 steps before his coronation yesterday.
President Bola Tinubu led prominent Nigerians, including serving Governors, former Governors, first-class traditional rulers across the country, serving Senators, among others, to witness the coronation and presentation of staff of office to Oba Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, who at the occasion, tasked the President to create Ibadan State before 2027.
Present at the ceremony held at the legendary Mapo Hall, were Governors Ademola Adeleke, Osun State; Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ondo State and Biodun Oyebanji, Ekiti State; former Governors Donald Duke; Olusegun Mimiko; Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola; Senators Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun.
Others included Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar; Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Rasheed Akanbi and Ooni of Ife represented by his wife, Olori Ashley Ogunwusi. Tinubu while speaking at the occasion, congratulated Oba Ladoja on his ascension to the throne of Olubadan, stating that it was
a great honour for him as the President of the country to be present at his coronation, which he described as historic.
He said, "All the things that you’ve started, the deliberations, expectations, and history that we share for this country. It is a great honour, a moment of history, that you ascend the throne of your forebearers.
"It is my prayer that you will live long and be celebrated as one of the rare gems of history to ascend the throne of your forefathers. It is my honour, joy, and pleasure to wish you this day and many more days ahead. Many more years of joy, prosperity, and relevance in the institution of democracy and the history of Obaship in Nigeria."
The President also appreciated the people of Ibadanland for their support of his presidential bid during his visit to Oyo State ahead of the 2023 election.
Ahead of the 2023 presidential election, Tinubu had popularised ‘Emi l’okan’, a Yoruba phrase meaning ‘it is my turn.’ Precisely, he had used the Yoruba phrase in June 2022, when he addressed members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
However, yesterday, he said, “I greet the people of Ibadan, congratulations on the coronation of your new king. We’ll continue to experience joy. This God-given happiness will not become a
source of sadness. May your children prosper and never shall sadness follow them. Thank you for taking care of me. I once came to Oke Mopo to seek your support to tell you ‘Emi lo’kan’, (it’s my turn), and now we are there. Thank you very much.”
He added that the economy has turned the corner, assuring Nigerians that their pain and suffering will soon be over, following the success of the economic reforms introduced by his government over two years ago.
He assured Nigerians that they would soon begin to enjoy the fruits of the reforms and thanked them for their patience and support.
"Today, I am honoured to bring the cheering news that our economy has turned around and there is now light at the end of the tunnel,'' the President stated.
The President similarly appreciated former governors, who attended the coronation of the new Olubadan, saying “I take this opportunity to salute former governors like Donald Duke, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Mallam Shekarau and my friend Rabiu Kwankwaso.”
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, in his speech, stated that the emergence of Oba Ladoja as the 44th traditional leader of the ancient city was a source of pride to the people of Ibadanland.
"It is a great honour to join in celebrating the coronation and presentation of the Staff of Office to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The joy and excitement that fill Ibadan today remind us of the importance of upholding our cherished traditions.
"The succession process to the throne of Olubadan is now well established and free from contestation, and this is a source of pride for us all. I rejoice with the Olubadan, the Ibadan Council of Chiefs, and the entire people of Ibadanland.
“It is my prayer that the reign of Oba Adewolu Ladoja will usher in lasting peace, unity, and greater progress for Ibadanland and for Oyo State as a whole", he said.
Oba Ladoja in his acceptance speech, thanked the President whom he described as his brother and friend for being part of the occasion, calling on President Tinubu to see to the creation of an Ibadan State which he said was the first assignment given to him by the people of Ibadanland.
He said, “You met Remi (President Tinubu’s wife) here. And you said she is the pillar of your success. Maybe you would not have become President if you hadn’t passed through Ibadan.
I thank God for you.
“I am also happy that all South-West governors passed through Ibadan at one time or
to proceed with the business combination of the two financial institutions.
Data compiled from the financial statements of both entities showed that as at June 30, 2025, the total assets of the combined entity stood at N5.325 trillion, placing it ninth in the industry.
Also, the total deposits of the combined entity stood at N3.219 trillion as at June 30, 2025, with an industry ranking of 11th. Providus now has 229 branches, which places it on the 10th position in the industry and 3.6 million customers as at June 30, 2025.
However, the nod to go ahead by the boards and shareholders of the two institutions signifies a moment of national significance for Nigeria’s banking industry as it reflects resilience, foresight, and collective responsibility.
In a joint statement, Providus Bank and Unity Bank also expressed appreciation to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for its foresight, determination, and commitment to building a stronger financial system.
It noted that the central bank,
by enabling the transaction, “has reinforced its vision of a sector anchored on resilience and customer confidence.”
“This regulatory support is not only shaping healthier banks, but also inspiring the confidence of businesses, investors, and everyday Nigerians that our financial system is ready to serve as a cornerstone for sustainable growth,” it added.
The statement noted that the vote was also a signal to the markets, to regulators, and to the wider public that Nigeria’s banking sector remains robust and forward-looking.
“In affirming this merger, shareholders have helped to reinforce the confidence that underpins economic stability.
It is a statement that Nigerian banks are prepared to adapt, consolidate, and grow in line with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s vision of a stronger and more resilient financial system—and ultimately, its aspiration to support Nigeria’s transition into a trillion-dollar economy.
“With a starting solid Capital Adequacy Ratio, the emerging
entity will have the scale to compete, the reach to serve every part of the federation, and the capacity to support businesses, households, and government at every level.
“The enlarged bank will immediately rank high among the banks with the most extensive branch networks in Nigeria, with approximately 230 branches nationwide.
“Unity Bank has served its customers faithfully with a proud legacy, while Providus Bank has earned a reputation for innovation, world-class digital banking platforms, and customer-centric service excellence. The enlarged bank will provide the backbone for businesses to thrive and communities to prosper,” it added.
According to both institutions, the merger when completed secures jobs, protects livelihoods, and creates new opportunities within a bigger, stronger, and future-oriented institution.
It stated that the success of the merger rests not only on systems and balance sheets but on people, adding that their contribution
would be safeguarded and celebrated.
“This historic transaction is not simply about numbers; it is about confidence in the Nigerian financial system. By combining Providus Bank and Unity Bank, we are creating an institution of scale and substance- that will give confidence to customers, strength to the financial system and create opportunity for our people.
“This merger ushers in a new chapter: a bank that is bigger in ambition, broader in reach, and stronger in capacity. It will embody the values of innovation, empathetic relationship management, customer focus, and integrity.
“With enhanced technology platforms, deeper capital strength, and a commitment to customer service, the enlarged bank will stand as both a guardian of stability and a catalyst for growth in Nigeria’s journey toward a trillion-dollar economy,” it added.
At the EGM of Providus Bank’s shareholders, the resolutions proposed and duly passed included, “that the Scheme of
gas-to-power supply for Nigeria’s electricity grid.
Total company revenue for August was N4.655 trillion, contributing to the N8.86 trillion already remitted to the federation account between January and July. This remittance is significant, representing about 24.3 per cent of Nigeria’s projected 2025 budget revenue.
In the downstream, NNPC Retail stations reported 76 per cent Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) availability across the country, showing marked improvement from early-year shortages.
the other.
“The staff of office presented to me today is a thing of joy for all Ibadan people. I thank the Olubadan-in-Council for unanimously endorsing me.
“All Ibadan people asked me to tell the President that they want ‘Ibadan State.’ The National Assembly has no problem with that. We want the new state before 2027.
“I assure you I am here to serve the people with all my power. There is nothing I want again. God has preserved me to serve the people of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria and all over Africa as much as He empowers me."
The monarch, however, warned traditional title holders in Ibadanland not to engage in snatching people's wives and lands, stating that he would ensure that the full weight of the law is brought to bear on offenders.
Governor Seyi Makinde presented the new Olubadan, a former governor of the state and a senator, with the staff of office and a certificate.
Makinde said Oba Ladoja's coronation has ended the disputes among families regarding who occupies traditional thrones.
"It is a great honour to celebrate the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. All sons and daughters of the state at home and in the diaspora are proud of this historic moment. We must uphold our tradition.
merger as contained in the Scheme Document dated the 28th day of August 2025, a printed copy of which has been presented at the Court Ordered Meeting and, for purposes of identification, endorsed by the Chairman, be and is hereby approved; and that the Directors of the Company be and are hereby authorised to consent to any modification of the Scheme that the Securities and Exchange Commission, CBN and/or the Court shall deem fit to impose and approve.
“That the company be and is hereby authorised to accept the merger of all the assets and liabilities and undertakings, including real properties and intellectual property rights of Unity Bank Plc with that of the Company upon the terms and subject to the conditions set out in the Scheme Document, without any further act or deed.
“That in consideration for the merger of the company of all the assets, liabilities, and undertakings, including real properties, deferred tax assets, licenses, permits, credits, and intellectual property rights of
Unity Bank Plc, the company shall: “Pay the cash consideration of N3.18 to the Scheme Shareholders, that elect to receive the cash consideration, for each ordinary share of N0.50 held in Unity Bank as at close of business on the Terminal Date” or “Issue and allot up to 18 ordinary shares of N0.50 each in the share capital of the Company in exchange for every 17 ordinary shares of N0.50 each held in Unity Bank Plc as at close of business on the Terminal Date, to all Scheme Shareholders that elect to receive the share consideration.
“That the share capital of the company be increased from N20,902,916,875.00 to N27,091,389,903.50 divided into 54,182,779,807 ordinary shares of N0.50 each by the creation of 12,376,946,057 ordinary shares of N0.50 each ranking pari passu with the existing ordinary shares of the Company and that the Board of Directors of the Company (where it deems appropriate) be authorised to take necessary steps to cancel any unallotted shares of the company.”
Company says over 3,000 Nigerians working at facility despite ongoing reorganisation Oil workers allege refinery fired over 800 Nigerians, hired 2000 Indians House wades into faceoff, vows to ensure industrial peace To probe refineries’ failed TAM
immigration documents.
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has justified the disengagement of hundreds of its employees, attributing it to an ongoing reorganisation within the facility.
The Dangote refinery also stated that more than 3,000 Nigerians continue to work actively at the 650,000 barrels per day facility despite ongoing reorganisation process aimed at strengthening operations and addressing repeated acts of sabotage.
This comes as oil workers under the aegis of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) condemned the refinery's action as anti-labour practice, alleging that the company dismissed over 800 Nigerians and replaced them with over 2,000 Indians, majorly without
Also, Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr. Femi Falana, who commented on the matter, slammed the agreement reached between the federal government, the the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), and the management of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals over staff unionisation, insisting that the deal contradicts existing labour laws.
The House of Representatives Committee on Downstream sector also has waded into the faceoff between Dangote Refinery and NUPENG which is threatening to disrupt supply of refined products with a view to resolving it.
The management of Dangote Group had in a letter on Thursday, September 25, 2025 signed by the Chief General Manager, Human Asset Management, Dangote Group, Femi Adekunle, announced the disengagement of the staff in what
Ahamefula Ogbu
Mastercard Foundation, a Canadian registered charity organisation operating in Nigeria and some African countries has launched programmes aimed at empowering 30 Million vulnerable and disadvantages people in Africa , 10 million of them in Nigeria by 2030 Out of the number, 70 percent of the target beneficiaries are women the gender of which they said fall among the least empowered.
Stating this at an interactive session with the press in Ikeja, Lagos yesterday, Head, Country Communications of Mastercard Foundation, Wura Tunde-Anjous said the programme targets young and vulnerable women they hope to exposed through education, trade, agriculture to ensure they live signifying and fulfilling lives.
Tunde-Anjourine said that they had defined fields and programmes that do not stand against cultures and sensibilities as all they aim to achieve is for the women to complement the role of men in society.
She explained that they distribute the number of those to benefit according to population of African countries where they have been intervening and Nigeria being a more populous country benefitted 10 million slots.
He said their target were youth between 15 and 35 years as the bracket defined by African Union as youth.
The officials of the Foundation who took turn to respond to questions listed advancing agriculture and Relief of poverty as legs for their under which were other ancillary legs of the main subhead.
it profiled "a total reorganisation."
Adekunle said the total reorganisation of the refinery followed multiple cases of reported sabotage across refinery units that posed major safety risks.
According to him, the management was left with no choice but to carry out a total reorganisation of the refinery, resulting in the disengagement of the affected staff, effective Thursday, September 25, 2025.
He said the employees were told to give all company property to their line managers and obtain an
exit clearance, with the specific date for the process to be communicated later.
“The Finance Department, by a copy of this letter, is advised to compute all your benefits and entitlements in line with your terms of employment and conditions of service and pay the amount due to you (less all indebtedness), subject to the condition that you have obtained the exit clearance certificate as mentioned above,”
Adekunle stated.
However, in a statement issued yesterday, Dangote Group said the
reorganisation exercise was not arbitrary, and that it has become necessary to safeguard the refinery from repeated acts of sabotage that have raised safety concerns and affected operational efficiency.
"Dangote Petroleum Refinery wishes to clarify recent reports concerning the ongoing reorganisation within its facility. This exercise is not arbitrary. It has become necessary to safeguard the refinery from repeated acts of sabotage that have raised safety concerns and affected operational efficiency.
"The foregoing decision was taken in the best interest of the Refinery as result of intermittent cases of sabotage in the various units of the Refinery with dire consequences on human life and related safety concerns.
"We remain vigilant to our internal systems and vulnerabilities to ensure the long-term stability of this strategic national asset. It is imperative to protect the refinery for the benefit of Nigerians, our partners across Africa, and the thousands of people whose livelihoods depend on it," Dangote Group said.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged the family of Chief Audu Ogbeh to emulate all the outstanding qualities that stood the late politician out as an exceptional statesman who served the nation diligently.
Tinubu, who spoke through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, during the burial ceremonies in Otukpa yesterday, listed such qualities as including
Ogbeh's humility, compassion, unifying personality, leadership with integrity and service to nationhood.
Reading from a testimonial titled ‘Contributions of Chief Audu Ogbeh' to the political development of Nigeria’, the President noted that though his death has left a void in the political calculus of Nigeria, the legacies he left behind would never be forgotten.
He said, "We equally remember him for his humility, compassion
and generosity. He was a unifying personality who bridged divides and brought people together. His impact on Nigerian politics and society will be felt for generations to come.
"As we reflect on his life and legacies, we are reminded of the importance of leadership, integrity and service. May we strive to emulate his example and continue his work towards building a better Nigeria."
Tinubu said that it was his belief that Ogbeh's legacies would
inspire future generations to attain greater heights.
"Chief Audu Ogbeh played significant roles in Nigerian politics, particularly in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Ogbeh was a founding member of the PDP and contributed significantly to Nigeria's return to democracy in 1999. He served as the PDP's National Chairman from 2001 to 2005, working to balance party dynamics and navigate complex national issues with reason and principle.
Digital solutions provider, Globacom, has partnered the Osun State Government to provide 20,000 closed user group lines for civil servants, local government staff, teachers, and political appointees in the State.
Tagged "Imole Connect", the special lines will enhance seamless communication among the indicated personnel.
A statement explained that at the launch of the scheme in Osogbo, on Wednesday, Governor Ademola Adeleke thanked Globacom for its commitment to
the partnership and its investment in supporting Osun State’s digital transformation.
He expressed delight that the initiative would bridge communication gap as well as improve efficiency and enhance productivity of civil servants and allied teams.
The scheme, he said, would strengthen communication within the public service and enhance the ease with which government businesses in Osun State are carried out.
"With the launch of 20,000
Glo Imole Connect lines today, we are taking a bold step towards improving our public servants’ linkage across the State. These lines, operating under a closed user group (CUG) arrangement, come with significantly reduced call and data rates", he noted.
According to him, "one of the challenges in public governance has always been the difficulty of seamless communication.
Information does not always move quickly or efficiently and this has often led to avoidable delays and
disconnections between agencies and officers across different levels. With this new arrangement, I am confident that we will begin to close those gaps and work in closer alignment".
In his speech, Globacom’s National Head, Enterprise Business Group, Mr. Adeniyi Odejobi, disclosed that the company was prepared to assist the state in the delivery of its services to the people by ensuring smooth communication among ministries, departments and agencies.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume (left), Executive Director, Housing, Finance and Accounts, Federal Housing Authority, Mathias Byuan, and other sympathisers, at the funeral of late Audu Ogbe in Otukpa, Benue State…yesterday
Army arrests 5 suspected criminals with concealed AK-47 rifles in Kwara Council chairman seeks divine intervention over insecurity
The Defence Headquarters yesterday announced the arrest of 26 terrorist collaborators, informants, and sympathisers in the North-east operational theatre.
This came as troops of the Nigerian Army, deployed to the Joint Task Force, North-East Operation Hadin Kai, intercepted logistics supplies meant for terrorists during an ambush operation in the area.
The Nigerian Army on Thursday arrested five suspected bandits at a checkpoint along Share town in the Ifelodun local government area of the state after six AK-47 rifles were found with them.
Also in Kwara, Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Alhaji AbdulRasheed Yusuf, has called on stakeholders to set politics aside, pray for divine intervention
against banditry and kidnapping attacks in the council.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, disclosed the arrest of 26 terrorist collaborators, informants, and sympathisers in the North-east during a monthly briefing at the DHQ in Abuja.
Major General Kangye also revealed that various logistics items — including a large quantity of fabric, vehicles, motorcycles, and materials used for making improvised explosive devices (IEDs) — were recovered during the operation.
He stated that the recovered items are currently in the custody of the troops, while interrogation of suspects is ongoing.
He said, “The troops sustained operational momentum by denying Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS terrorists freedom of action in
A Nigerian educator and advocate, Mr. Seyi Anifowose, has entered the Guinness World Records for organising the largest gathering of teachers in history.
The feat was achieved on September 20 at the 'Let There Be Teachers Conference 2025' in Lagos, where more than 60,000 teachers converged to highlight the importance of education and the welfare of Nigerian teachers.
The record-breaking achievement was officially confirmed via a Zoom call, yesterday, by Guinness World Record representative, Rishi Nath, who commended Anifowose and his team for using the platform to spotlight education as a critical national issue.
“This is more than a number. It is proof that teachers matter. It is
a victory for education, and it is a victory for Nigeria,” Anifowose said. He noted the resilience of teachers who endured rain, scorching sun, and long verification lines to make the record possible, adding that the moment marked a global recognition of teachers as nation-builders.
Anifowose expressed appreciation to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for hosting the event, as well as to Ekiti State Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji, teacher unions, and education agencies for their support.
With the record secured, Anifowose said the next phase of his advocacy will involve engaging the National Assembly to push for policy reforms that strengthen education and improve teachers’ welfare.
the North-east region. Our ground forces, in conjunction with the Air Component, Hybrid Forces, and local security groups, conducted aggressive operations across the theatre.
“Their efforts led to the elimination of several terrorists and their logistics suppliers, the recovery of weapons, the dismantling of terrorist networks, and the creation of a secure environment for the safe resettlement of displaced persons
and unimpeded farming activities.
“Troops carried out both kinetic and non-kinetic operations against terrorists in Damboa, Konduga, Gwoza, Marte, Bama, Nganzai, Chibok, and Biu Local Government Areas of Borno State, as well as in Bula, Nguru, and Mubi North local government areas of Yobe and Adamawa states. During the encounters, troops eliminated scores of terrorists and rescued three kidnapped victims.”
In related operations conducted between 15 and 22 September 2025, troops were deployed to Kaga, Kukawa, Monguno, and Ngala LGAs of Borno State, as well as Mubi South, Mubi North, and Nguru LGAs of Yobe and Adamawa states.
"Overall, the troops recovered large quantities of various arms, including automatic weapons, RPG tubes, machine guns, locally fabricated firearms, and materials
used in the production of improvised explosive devices. A cache of live cartridges and assorted ammunition was also recovered," the military said.
A statement by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, North-East Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, confirmed that a 54-year-old logistics supplier and a 31-year-old Boko Haram fighter were also apprehended.
Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano
The national leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has refuted claims that his political party has submitted a letter of intent to join one of the political parties.
Senator Kwankwaso, a
former Governor of Kano State, dismissed as a rumour an online report suggesting that the NNPP had approached one of the country's political parties.
He further clarified that his party remains committed to its current path, advising the general public, especially party supporters to always disregard speculations.
"We have been alerted to some online statements suggesting that we have submitted a letter of intent to join a political party in the country.
"We would like to clarify that we have not made any such submission to any party.
"The public is therefore advised to stay informed of any further information regarding our matter through the established official channels," Kwankwaso said. It would be recalled that the NNPP leader outlined conditions for joining any political party especially the All Progressives Congress APC.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has challenged criminal syndicates operating in Nigeria, stating that operatives of the Force are now deployed and equipped to deny them freedom of action.
Also three men have been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Lagos for allegedly hacking into Lotus Bank’s core banking system and fraudulently diverting over N60 million.
Egbetokun issued warning to
criminal syndicates operating in Nigeria yesterday in Abuja, during the inauguration and deployment of 59 armoured Toyota Hilux vehicles for special operations.
Inaugurating the operational assets at the Force Headquarters in Abuja yesterday, Egbetokun said the Force now has stronger tools to match determination with capability.
He said, "An institution earns credibility not by words, but by the results it is able to deliver. The Nigeria Police Force is judged by how safe our people feel, how quickly we respond, and how firmly we stand against lawlessness.
These 59 armoured Toyota Hilux vehicles, commissioned today in Abuja, are evidence that this Force does not trade in promises — it delivers capacity.
"To those who challenge law and order in our country, this commissioning sends a direct message. The Police Force now has stronger tools to match determination with capability. Criminal groups will no longer enjoy the advantage of mobility or surprise. These Hiluxes will carry our officers into contested spaces — and return with results."
Stating that every operation
conducted with these vehicles must be lawful, proportionate, and decisive, Egbetokun warned that tactical advantage must never become an excuse for abuse. Officers, he said, must remember at all times that the legitimacy of the Nigeria Police Force rests not in force alone, but in professionalism and respect for the rule of law. "We will judge ourselves not by the ceremony of today but by the results of tomorrow. Safer communities, lower crime rates, and restored confidence — that is the measure that matters. Nothing less will be acceptable," he said.
1st Vice Chairman, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Emmanuel Mogbolu, (3rd right), in a group photograph with pupils from Oasis International School and Raberto Schools who participated in a debate organised by the CIBN, FCT branch in Abuja…recently
Nigeria, UK forge strategic partnership on trade, defence, migration Tuggar hails country’s statement as bold, inclusive
and
Vice President Kashim Shettima has met with United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres at the UN headquarters in New York, the United States to discuss key issues, including Nigeria's quest for a permanent
seat on the United Nations Security Council and other matters of mutual interest.
This was the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has commended the nation’s position delivered by the Vice President Shettima on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, at the 80th United Nations General
Assembly (UNGA80), describing it as both “forward-looking and deeply rooted in Africa’s realities.”
Shettima, according to a release issued yesterday by his Media Assistant, Stanley Nkwocha, emphasised the need for the UN to "support Nigeria even more so that we achieve more," highlighting that "we are aspiring to become a permanent member of the UN Security Council."
The two leaders also held bilateral discussions focusing on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), climate change, collaboration on strengthening democracy in Nigeria and the African region, and partnership with the United
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
Ambassador of China to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, has revealed plan of Chinese companies to build a local insulin production facility in Nigeria.
Dunhai, disclosed this at a grand reception in Abuja to mark the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
He said the project, when completed, would end Nigeria’s dependence on import.
According to him, “Chinese companies are in talks with
Nigeria to build Africa’s first local insulin production facility, potentially ending Nigeria’s reliance on imported insulin and positioning Nigeria as a hub for African medical biotechnology.”
He noted that Nigeria-China relationship is a growing “comprehensive strategic partnership” with expanding political, economic, and cultural cooperation.
Dunhai described the year 2025 as a pivotal moment for China’s development, China-Africa relations,
and global diplomacy.
He said, “This year marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations,” stating that China’s Global Governance Initiative offers “Chinese wisdom and solutions to strengthen and improve global governance.”
He described China’s achievements over the past seven decades as transformatory and “miraculous.”
The envoy said over the past 76 years, the Communist Party of China with a strong spirit of
self-reform has united and led the Chinese people in achieving two miracles: rapid economic growth and long-term social stability.
He added that “The Chinese nation’s great rejuvenation has entered an irreversible historical trend.”
Dunhai listed some of the progress achieved which include poverty alleviation, noting that China had lifted more than 800 million people out of poverty, stating that it a “Chinese poverty alleviation miracle.
A report has linked the prevailing high food inflation in Nigeria to the country’s growing external debt and devaluation of Naira, irrespective of whether the food is produced domestically or imported into the country.
The report titled ‘How Do Financial Markets Affect the Cost of My Dinner? Nigeria’s Trade Flows, Partners, Global Roles and Vulnerabilities’, authored by Jaume Portell Cano, was presented during a training on financial journalism organised
by the Spanish Embassy in Nigeria in collaboration with the Nigerian Guild of Editors. It stated that “the price of our dinner is fundamentally linked to the mechanics of international finance, debt, and global markets.”
It also noted that “as Dollardenominated liabilities increase, any devaluation of the Naira raises domestic food prices, including for staples such as rice.
“This price pressure occurs whether the rice is imported or locally produced, as key agricultural inputs, like fertiliser,
natural gas, and gasoline, are globally traded and their price depends on commodity markets.
“A weaker Naira makes these inputs more expensive, impacting farming productivity and transport costs.”
The report also said that “economic diversification and fiscal space to support agriculture are crucial,” emphasising that “without them, commodity exporters remain trapped in boom-and-bust cycles and face worsening terms of trade— effectively needing to sell more soybeans/oil/palm oil
each year to purchase a single car or another manufactured product.
“The current status quo is unsustainable and does not benefit these economies.”
The report also stated that Nigeria’s external debts have grown five folds since 2007 when the country was granted debt relief.
It also projected that half of Nigeria’s “debt repayments in 2026 will be interest,” while “42 per cent of repayments between 2025 and 2031 will go to private creditors.
The Assemblies of God Church, Isolo, Lagos, today begins its four-day programme themed ‘Ebenezer’ to mark its 50th year anniversary.
A statement from the organisers said the Golden Jubilee which takes place at 5/7 Risi Laguda Close, Off Metropolitan College Road, Ire-Akari Estate, Isolo, will feature activities such as
exhibitions, awards, trade fairs, documentary, book presentation, the word, celebration and thanksgiving.
Reverend Godson Iroatu, who oversees day-to-day activities
of the church, said “it’s going to be a historic moment filled with worship, word, testimonies and thanksgiving,” welcoming all to be part of this Golden Jubilee celebration.
Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on regional initiatives for democracy and security.
Providing more insight into the VP-UN Secretary-General meeting, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, said the Nigerian delegation had a very cordial engagement with the UN Secretary-General.
He highlighted Guterres' comments on artificial intelligence and his hope and expectation that Nigeria will continue to play a significant role in that field.
"He was extremely happy when we mentioned that Nigeria, just a few days ago, released our first multilingual and multimodal large language model—the first of its kind on the African continent, backed by any government.
"Even as we were leaving, he (Guterres) mentioned that he would love to see Nigeria support other African countries to ensure Africa is not left behind in artificial intelligence and that
we can leverage it properly for development," the minister disclosed.
On his part, Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, stressed that the Nigerian government had fruitful discussions with the United Nations SecretaryGeneral, highlighting President Tinubu's administration's efforts in addressing humanitarian crises and poverty reduction.
According to Sununu; "We highlighted that we have one of the largest national social registers containing almost 18.9 million households, and we have reached over 8.1 million Nigerians through conditional cash transfers.
"We also highlighted the government's efforts to promote inclusivity for people with disabilities."
Furthermore, he stated that both parties shared ideas on durable solutions to address ongoing challenges.
Fred Ojeh
AltSchool Africa, a leading online education platform, founded by Adewale Yusuf, CEO and Co-Founder, has announced groundbreaking initiatives designed to redefine digital learning and expand access to quality education across Africa.
The unveiling marks a significant milestone for the fastgrowing edtech company, which has consistently positioned itself as a disruptor in Africa’s education space.
At the centre of the new rollouts is the ‘Nano-Diploma’, a flexible and practical program aimed at equipping learners with job-ready skills. Built on the institution’s guiding 3E promise "Empowered, Experienced, and Employable", the Nano-Diploma is designed to bridge the gap between traditional education and the evolving demands of the modern workforce.
In a bold step toward inclusivity, AltSchool Africa revealed that the Nano programme will be delivered
in Nigeria’s three most widely spoken local languages, Igbo, Hausa, and Yoruba. By doing so, the platform seeks to eliminate language barriers that often prevent large segments of the population from accessing life-changing educational opportunities. Further expanding its innovation portfolio, the company introduced “GO”, an artificial intelligencepowered learning assistant. GO will act as a personalised digital companion for students, offering tailored guidance, interactive learning experiences, and real-time study support to improve learning outcomes.
AltSchool Africa also rolled out the AltSchool Partner Network (APN), a referral and reward program designed to encourage community participation by rewarding learners and partners who help expand the platform’s reach. Complementing this is the Learn and Earn initiative, which integrates practical work experience into the academic journey, enabling students to gain industry exposure while studying.
At least 100 people are feared dead following the collapse of a gold mining pit in Zamfara State, survivors and residents disclosed yesterday.
This was as West African Gas Pipeline Limited (WAPCo) has raised the alarm over continued illegal mining along its pipeline network, cautioning that the activity poses serious safety and environmental hazards.
The pit at the Kadauri mining site in the Maru Local Government Area caved in on Thursday while scores of artisanal miners were working underground, witnesses told Reuters. Rescue operations continued into yesterday.
Sanusi Auwal, a local resident involved in rescue efforts, said at least 13 bodies had been retrieved from the rubble, including that of his cousin.
"Over 100 miners were involved during the collapse,"
Auwal told Reuters by phone.
"We are lucky to be rescued alive. Out of more than 100 people, only 15 of us were rescued," said Isa Sani, who is currently receiving treatment for injuries.
Muhammadu Isa of the Zamfara State Miners Association confirmed the incident, adding that some rescuers also suffocated while trying to dig out victims.
Zamfara Police Spokesperson, Yazid Abubakar, did not immediately respond to calls and text messages seeking comment.
Illegal mining is common in Zamfara, where armed gangs often control gold fields, fuelling violence and deadly accidents.
Meanwhile, Country Head, External Relations (Nigeria), WAPCo, Temitope Sodeinde, issued the warning during the company’s Annual Sand Mining Workshop held in Lagos.
Sodeinde stressed that illegal sand mining along the pipeline’s right-of-way had resulted in
Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City
The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has adopted a global initiative to drive professional progression in the country’s healthcare sector. This was as the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN) yesterday shut down 471stores for breaching pharmaceutical practice regulations in parts of Edo State.
National Chairman of ACPN, Ambrose Eze, said that the project was part of ACPN’s 2025 World
Pharmacy Day celebration aimed at enhancing professional opportunities for growth and career improvement.
According to him, the initiative known as “Pharmacy Forward: Performance, Collaboration and Health Transformation, is grounded on standardising career progression ratings for Community Pharmacists nationally and globally.”
He explained that the scheme was conceived to motivate and encourage Community Pharmacists to develop their talents and attain greater heights in the profession.
Eze noted that the absence of a structured career path has affected standards of community pharmacy practice in the country. “This is very strategic to attaining optimal success stories with regards to the highlighted outputs of pharmacists.”
hazardous pits up to five metres deep, threatening the structural integrity of the pipeline. He noted that multiple excavators and tipper trucks were operating simultaneously, encroaching on established boundaries.
“The company is deeply concerned about the safety of illegal miners operating dangerously close to the pipeline, which poses significant risks to both the community and their livelihoods.
“We are working closely with
security agencies to monitor and protect the pipeline,” Sodeinde said.
He stated that the Police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other security agencies had pledged to arrest those involved
in illegal mining along the pipeline network.
“This is a high-pressure gas pipeline buried underground. We regularly hold town hall and pipeline awareness meetings to educate communities about the dangers.
Justice James Omotosho of a Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, held that the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has a case to answer in the terrorism charge filed against him by the federal government.
Justice Omotosho accordingly ordered Kanu to open his defense, because the prosecution has a case against him that requires some explanations.
Meanwhile, the court gave the President of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) eight days to ascertain the health condition, following the defendant's claim of deteriorating health in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
The judge issued the order while delivering ruling in Kanu's application for his transfer to the National Hospital for effective and adequate treatment.
He subsequently fixed October 8 for the court to receive the NMA report which will thereafter be used to determine a date for the defendant to open his defense.
The DSS had re-arraigned the pro-Biafran on an amended seven count charge bordering on alleged terrorism and treasonable felony before Omotosho on March 21, following the withdrawal of the former Judge, Binta Nyako, whom
the defendant had accused of bias.
After calling five witnesses and tendering several bundles of documentary and video evidence the DSS had closed its case in June this year.
Rather than open his defense, Kanu brought an application for
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Interim National Publicity Secretary, Labour Party, Prince Tony Akeni, has called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to shelve his presidential ambition in favour of Peter Obi, warning that divided opposition votes would guarantee an easy second term for President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
But in a swift reaction, the
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The fight against trafficking in drugs in the country has received a major boost as the German government has donated a newly built canine facility to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Speaking on the donation, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law
a No-case Submission which was argued and objected to at July 18 proceedings, following which the court fixed October 10 for ruling in the No-case submission.
However, following an application made early this
former Vice President Atiku said that the coalition party is not on who becomes the presidential candidate of the coalition party as such talks are to divide the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Akeni in an interview with ARISE NEWS yesterday, said the coalition under the banner of ‘Agove 2027’, reached its decision after a three-day stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja.
Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd), said the donation of the newly built facility to NDLEA by the German government will boost ongoing efforts against the menace of illicit drugs in Nigeria.
Marwa, yesterday at the inauguration of the new modern canine complex built and donated to NDLEA by the German government sair, “May
month for transfer to the National Hospital for effective and adequate treatment, Justice Omotosho then brought forward the date for ruling in the no-case submission as well as hearing of the motion for transfer from DSS custody to the National Hospital.
He explained that the movement was convinced only Obi could unite Nigerians and defeat the All Progress Congress (APC) in the next election.
Reacting to Akeni’s call, the former Vice President said that the talks of stepping down is to advance the motives of the ruling party, APC in advancing a dictatorship being promulgated by President Bola Tinubu.
I assure all stakeholders that the provision of this facility will significantly drive our fight against illicit drugs, fulfil our core mandate and secure the future of our nation. The quality of the infrastructure at the new NDLEA dog facility is indeed commendable. It speaks volumes of the commitment, goodwill, and tenacity of our partners.”
Have we given up?
WNhen President Muhammadu Buhari took over the reins of power on May 29, 2015, Nigeria was sadly a broken state in many respects. As a result of many other factors including bad governance and untold level of corruption, government could not live up to its financial obligations to citizens and service providers at both the federal and state levels.
abandon their lands, traders close shops early, and companies relocate to safer environments. The ripple effect is a cycle of poverty, anger, and further instability.
Indeed one of the first official assignments that President Buhari carried out was the approval of billions of Naira in bailout funds to enable state governors pay something as basic as workers’ salaries. Granting those bailout funds was a huge boost to national security because the pressure of arrears of unpaid monthly salaries building dangerously all over the country was a ticking bomb.
igeria continues to grapple with the devastating reality of insecurity, and the situation appears to worsen by the day. From banditry in the North-West, to Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgency in the North-East, to kidnappings and communal clashes in the Middle Belt, and rising cultism and violence in the South, the nation is under siege. The inability to guarantee safety for citizens has become the biggest challenge facing the Nigerian state.
Ask the naysayers and they would readily remind you of how long it took President Buhari to appoint his ministers and how that contributed to collapse of the economy as if, without ministers, governance was frozen. But buying that narrative would amount to what a famous Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Adichie, termed “the danger of a single story”. Yet the whole story was that many of our citizens did not know how decrepit a state President Buhari inherited in 2015.
The people’s faith in government’s capacity to protect lives and property is waning. Reports of attacks on highways, raids on rural communities, and mass abductions of schoolchildren dominate the news almost daily. For many Nigerians, traveling has become a nightmare, while farming—once the backbone of the economy—is now a life-threatening venture in many regions.
Many analysts argue that Nigeria must rethink its security strategy. Beyond military action, there must be investments in intelligence gathering, community policing, and technology-driven surveillance. Modern threats require modern responses, and Nigeria cannot continue to rely on outdated tactics in the face of sophisticated criminal networks.
It was therefore necessary for him to take stock against the background of the fact that the departing government did not, reportedly, cooperate full well with the incoming government in terms of leaving workable handover notes. Although President Goodluck Jonathan was gracious in defeat, many of his appointees were still sulking over what they saw as their personal losses and therefore pulled all the stops to make things difficult for the Buhari government.
Wby the EFCC, President Buhari by his action has successfully brought back to the public consciousness the need to treat public funds with the highest level of transparency and accountability.
After keeping treasury looters on their toes and at bay through the EFCC, particularly, President Buhari moved to curb unnecessary spending habits of the nation on what economists call articles of ostentation. Part of the disclosures of the President’s stock taking was how the country frittered away billions in foreign currency by importing goods, which can be produced at home. One of such items was rice, a major staple among Nigerians. By banning rice importation into the country, the President on one hand had saved the nation billions in foreign currency annually.
And, on the other hand, the President has boosted domestic production of rice and in the process had nudged the country into self sufficiency in food production. He also created millions of jobs for young people in the rice value chain.
Equally important is addressing the root causes of insecurity—poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, and social injustice.
What is most admirable about President Buhari and his government is its frugal management of scarce national resources to attain optimum goals. Recall that since President Buhari stepped in the saddle, oil revenue dropped abysmally as if to sabotage him knowing all the big promises he made to citizens during his campaigns. But with the little resources that trickle in, the President is achieving what governments that received oil windfalls could not dream of.
Rukaiya Tahir Mshelia, Dept of Mass Communication, University Of Maiduguri
Even with the obvious and unpatriotic obscurantist behaviour of the PDP appointees and their supporters still in government hell-bent on making things difficult for Buhari, the President moved on with his methodical repair of a broken country. The first thing he did was to identify all possible sources of income to the nation and directed that all inflows be paid into one single account in line with the policy of Single Treasury Account (TSA).
Today, the trains are up and running daily from Abuja to Kaduna. And from Lagos to Ibadan a brand new rail track was started and completed; citizens are already commuting daily to and fro these two major cities in the country seamlessly as they reap from the dividends of democracy. And with the way this government is going, before 2023 when the President would leave, the entire country would be linked by rail with all of its economic advantages.
Ainofenokhai Ojeifo, Abuja
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EDITOR OBINNA CHIMA
hile the catholic church has spoken out against witchcraft accusations and persecution in Africa, this religious institution maintains a conflicted position that undermines efforts to combat the phenomenon. By virtue of its position and proposition on exorcism, the church is an enabler of witch-hunting. And here are the reasons. The church recognizes and approves exorcism, that is the expulsion of demons or evil spirits. The church has priests who officially operate as exorcists. The Catholic church also recognizes the International Association of exorcists. From September 15 to 20, the association convened in Rome, and Pope Leo XIV sent a message. In the message, which Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin signed, the pope expressed appreciation to the priests who engage in the ‘delicate and necessary ministry of the exorcist’. Look, the pope acknowledged that the work of exorcists as a ‘necessary’ ministry. Really? Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches
The Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) urges the Nigerian public to stop ritual attacks and killings because the notion of ritual money and wealth is completely baseless. AfAW is making this call following the reported arrest of suspected ritualists in Oyo State in southern Nigeria. The local media reported that members of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, arrested suspected ritualists with the body parts of a 73-year-old man.
The TSA policy, interestingly, was mooted by the PDP government but its penchant for imprudence and lack of accountability denied it the courage of implementing the policy. What the President literally did was to gather all the nation’s money into one box and locked it up with a big padlock and watched for any thief to come close.
Despite huge budgetary allocations to defense and security, results remain disappointing. The military, police, and other security outfits often complain of inadequate equipment, poor welfare, and insufficient manpower. Corruption within the system further compounds the problem, with funds meant for critical operations sometimes diverted or mismanaged.
Who can blame the President for almost developing paranoia over the safeguard of the national treasury with revelations and reports of mind-boggling looting that took place in the 16 years of the PDP? With such disclosures of how billions meant for fighting insurgency in the Northeast ended up in the pockets of a few individuals while our gallant soldiers fought with bare hands and on empty stomach, President Buhari was duty bound to bring sanity and accountability back in national spending.
The consequences of insecurity go far beyond loss of lives. It stifles economic growth, discourages foreign investment, and worsens unemployment. Farmers
Thus, under President Buhari, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which had remained comatose for years, was woken up to resume its duties. Apart from the trillions of Naira of looted funds and property recovered from corrupt politicians
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s a teacher I saw many example of students being petty and childish, usually because they were immature or mislead but rarely as badly as that of President Trump with the “walk of fame.” He, or one of his underlings, has replaced the photo of President Biden with a photo of an autopen and Biden’s signature.
The suspects, who were apprehended in the Boluwaji area in Ibadan, said that a Muslim cleric asked them to procure some human body parts for rituals. Ritual attacks are widespread in Nigeria. Irrational conceptions of how to make money or become wealthy and successful undergird these atrocities. Many Nigerians strongly believe in blood money, known in some local languages as Ogun Owo (Yoruba) or Ogwu ego (Igbo). They think that they could become rich, or successful through ritual sacrifice. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Ritual wealth has no basis in reason, science, or reality. Home movies known as Africa magic or Nollywood films have not helped matters. These movies continue to reinforce these mistaken notions and other superstitions. Families, churches, mosques, and other public institutions do not encourage the interrogation of these traditional occult beliefs. There are no robust efforts to criticize or dispel these irrational and paranormal claims in schools, colleges, and universities. So millions of Nigerians grow up blindly believing that they could make money through ritual sacrifice of human body parts. The belief has led many Nigerians to commit crimes and perpetrate atrocities. Many Nigerians have been jailed or are undergoing court trials due to ritualrelated attacks and murder.
President Biden served the country’s interests for decades, and honorably, whereas President Trump seems to serve his own interests. The future will write the stories of these Presidents, although not with a sharpie pen.
Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia
Not too long ago, the police arrested some young Nigerians for stealing female pants, which they intended to use for ritual sacrifice. AfAW is asking all Nigerians to desist from ritual-related abuses because ritual money beliefs are baseless superstitions. Nigerian media, schools, and colleges should help educate and reorient the public. They should assist in reasoning Nigerians out of this killer-superstitious absurdity and nonsense. Leo Igwe directs the Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW)
Few voices carry as much weight in Nigeria’s economic discourse as that of Bismarck Rewane. For decades, the renowned economist and financial analyst has been a trusted guide for policymakers, businesses, and the public. He is known for his sharp insights, consistency, and refusal to bend to political choruses. In this conversation, Rewane opens up beyond the charts and boardrooms, sharing his daily routines, early influ- ences, values, and the philosophy that has shaped his career. Sunday Ehigiator brings the excerpts
Outside boardrooms and number-crunching, what does a typical day in your life look like?
Well, a typical day involves thinking, and number crunching is just one item. It’s thinking about and trying to evaluate what has happened, why it has happened, and what is likely to happen. So you keep on thinking about some of the things you had projected that would happen. When they don’t happen, you have to explain why. So, because there is what we call evidence-based analysis, which shows that certain things happen, and why they happened. So that’s a typical day. I listen mostly to BBC Radio, and they have more objectivity than any other, not the TV station, I mean the radio. They have a programme, ‘Focus Africa,’ which I listen to and they do a lot of reviews. That helps to trigger the mind. Then, because of that, it allows you to situate what the BBC is talking about, and what Nigeria is saying today, because BBC Radio is not a TV station,
so they just come and say what they want, and they do a lot of research. So, my normal day starts with BBC Radio, I analyse things, then come into the office and see exactly what is happening. I think that to me is a key element. And then we take it all the way through. So, when I come into the office, I look at Twitter and all of that. We look at it and say, okay, is there any consistency between what is happening, right, and what was predicted to happen, and why it is happening? Because many things happen, and CNN will not carry them because it’s not breaking news, BBC TV will not carry it because it’s a TV, same with Nigerian TVs, but BBC Radio has enough programmes, and they interview a lot of people who are TV-shy but can speak. I’ve listened to a lot of policymakers in Nigeria who are happy to be on BBC Radio rather than on TV.
How did your childhood shape your worldview and
influence your career as an economist?
Part of it was being a rebel, right? My father wanted me to study law, and I said, No, I’ll study economics. Because in those days, economics was not offered to O-levels, it was A-levels. So I found it quite interesting, very challenging, of course. As it happened, I started teaching economics after school, and of course, the disruption due to civil commotion and riots in Nigeria allowed me to do things. When I went to the University of Ibadan, it was the home of economics. We were groomed into being economic thinkers. Being an economic thinker and being an economist are two different things because you think about it, and you suggest to people that, ‘look, if you take this path, this is what the outcomes will be.’ And to be honest with you, there’s no single answer to an economic problem. There are many solutions. That is why you will never hear me say that if you do this, this will happen. What you will hear is that the most likely outcome, if you do this, is that it will happen this way. So I think that it’s a way of thinking, like a
school of thought. and Nigeria has got to that point now where policy-making options, outcomes, and feedback are taken very serious. so, the problem we have in Nigeria is that we think that it’s a zero-sum game, that once you say this is going to happen, then it must happen. If it doesn’t happen, you are wrong. No, that’s not true. the truth is that it could happen, it may happen to some extent, or it may not even happen. Or if it happens, it may happen much later. this is what we are seeing today. the year 2023 was an awful year. In 2024, problems continued to manifest. In 2025, we are now beginning to see some semblance of recovery. so can you tie what happened in 2023 to 2024 to what happened in 2025 and what will happen in 2026? yes, definitely. But if you had done all of those things at the same time in 2023, by now we would have taken off, we would have been on the recovery path.
What childhood values have most influenced your leadership skills and decision-making ability today?
you are trained to think. there were Marxist scholars who felt that the entire capitalist arrangement would undermine society, and therefore, you are exposed to the Marxist school of thought. We were also exposed to the capitalist school of thought, and the indigenous thinking of the locals. and also, because you had to do electives in sociology and in political science, you had to cross these things together to make sense. so that happened. right, you now started seeing the nexus between economic policies, how markets react, and how businesses position themselves. so it was simple, and that has guided me all the way to where I am today.
As an economic thinker, what role has reading books played in shaping your leadership style?
When we were in school, we were trained to be patriotic, being an independent country, fighting, apart from political independence, but also fighting for economic independence. so, we were trained to read Frantz Fanon’s ‘the Wretched of the earth’ and ‘Blackface and White Mask.’ We read about negritude. these were things that made us think deeply. We also read things like Nkrumah’s neocolonialism, the last stage of imperialism. all those things we read then have come to happen today. so, they were espoused 60, 70 years ago, but today they are real. so, I would say that we have come full circle, and you can see now with the era of the new neocolonialism, right? people being deported, people being denied visas. so, it has brought us back to where we were supposed to be. that is, develop your own country. Make yourself independent, not only economically, but mentally and subsequently. so, I think that’s where we are, and quite frankly, that’s where we have to go.
Which three books have had the most profound impact on your career and thinking?
I would say Frantz Fanon’s ‘the Wretched of the earth’. I would say, to a large extent, adam smith’s ‘Wealth of Nations,’ and also, to a large extent, Keynes’ theory of employment, Interest rate and Money’, which has helped because Keynesian philosophy is about the short term. and when asked what happened in the long run, I would say in the long run, we are all dead anyway. so, you take Keynesian philosophy, situate it into what’s happening and see how you can tweak it along. there are also two or three people I admire. they are Joseph stiglitz and paul Krugman. and to a large extent, I believe that if you take what paul Krugman is saying and take what Joseph stiglitz is saying, you have a crossbreed which will help you land yourself in a way that you can’t. I also closely follow Larry summers, who used to be the president of Harvard university, but he’s a very caustic commentator on affairs.
Given your busy schedule and, of course, the constant economic analysis you have to do, I wonder how you still cultivate a reading habit?
Okay, let me tell you what it is. First and foremost, 5 a.m. or 5.30 a.m., my radio is on BBC radio, and that takes me all the way to 7 a.m., right? so if I listen to that, I take some notes, right? and then begin to situate it and read, because the ‘Focus on africa’ programme is the main thing. Once I have that, I’m covered because they do their research and they debate it. I do not agree with everything they say, but it provides me with knowledge, and once I get that, then everything follows. so it’s very easy to follow. When I get to the office and
I am with my team and we are discussing, not all of them think that BBC radio is a useful source, because they are all internet-driven. It’s okay, no problem. But I bring it up, and I suggest, and most of the thoughts that you see that come out from my people are because I have been able to position them towards that direction from BBC radio, which is very, very useful.
But let me state that, as a kid, as far back as 10 to 12 years old, my father had BBC radio on every morning. So everybody in my house listened to the BBC radio.
you’re either into BBC radio, and some of my sisters didn’t like it. But invariably, many of my sisters listened to BBC radio, and they swear by it. so that is very important. so it’s quite an interesting development. during the Civil War, when I was young, my father made some predictions based on what happened during the second World War and some of those things happened. so, everything is forecast. so this habit has helped to shape how I still read, despite my busy schedule. you see, some of these philosophies are grounded. If they were good in the 50s, they were good in the 60s, and they are good today. those philosophies are not even open to debate. Frantz Fanon died ages ago, but his books, ‘Nation of the earth’, ‘Blackface and White Mask’, are still valid today. Fela anikulapo Kuti made a lot of songs, right? But the songs are valid today. so, society hasn’t changed. right? It’s between the oppressors and the oppressed.
What are you currently reading, and why did you choose it?
I still have Frantz’s book on my shelf. there’s another one that you must know, ‘the dark side of democracy’. It’s a fantastic piece. But as I already said, whilst democracy leads to major differences in income distribution in a country, it also leads to resentment and crisis. the author used the philippines and a couple of other countries as examples. the author also referred to the Igbo in Nigeria, but not in much detail. according to the author, as reflected in the ‘dark side of democracy,’ if you go for democracy and allow things to happen, then you should be ready for the inequality of income and opportunity. and therefore, you should prepare for that. If not, you will have a backlash.
As Nigeria turns 65 on October 1, which is next Wednesday, how would you assess its economic journey, and what are the biggest missed opportunities and greatest gains?
I’m not sure that I know of many gains. all I can tell you is that there are huge missed opportunities, and we seem to have missed the boat many times. so all you have to do is try as much as you can to see how you can, then press the reset button. But definitely, there’s so much to be done. and rather than anything else, we keep on playing the blame game. It is that person, it is that tribe; it is this thing. that is totally counterproductive. I don’t think it makes sense for us to go into that blame game ideology. this country needs a reset in thinking. so you can have all the economic thinkers and all the journalists, but that doesn’t get into the head, the subconscious head of leaders in different parties and political arrangements, no, it doesn’t.
Talking about resets, what structural reforms would you recommend for the country?
all I’m saying is to understand that the current arrangement is kind of dysfunctional. so you need to come together and say, okay, let us see how we can do some things differently. Because we’ve created states and we’ve done all sorts of things. Now, to put it back together is almost impossible.
so there is a problem. We really have to begin to think about it in the context of: how do we rearrange this political arrangement, because, if you keep the same economic arrangement and political arrangement, you are going to get the same outcomes. and how do you do it without costing prices? so it’s a big ask. I don’t know how Nigeria is going to rearrange itself and go back to wherever it is, but there is a problem. there is a big problem.
Do you think we are maximising the opportunities in our youth population? unproductive youth, operating below potential and focused on quick wins, will not add value. I keep on hearing about how the youth are there, this is their place, and all of that. But Ghana at one point shut down its education system and scrapped everything for about two or three years, and refocused it and did that. I’m not sure that we can; we need a reset, a rethink. We have to get to a point where the economy and the politics get to a gridlock and then we come back and say, so will the crisis lead to a solution, or will the solution avoid the crisis?
What’s the most essential quality for a leader in Nigeria today?
leader must understand history; the history of your country, the history of your tribe, the history of your nation-state. If you don’t do that, you are just going to be jumping all over the place. so there’s nothing that’s happening today that did
I’ve been lucky to be self-sufficient, so you cannot buy me with crumbs. Secondly, once you are objective, people will listen to you, and you are not available for crumbs, right? So that itself is key. And there has to be consistency between what you said yesterday, what you said a year ago, and what you’re saying today
not happen before. so I think that, to be honest with you, there are two things: one, history, and two, objectivity. so a leader has to be objective, and if not, you will start things and never end. We’ve seen it; you know how many constitutional conferences and all of these things, nothing came out of it.
How do you handle setbacks and uncertainty as a leader?
Well, first and foremost, I’ve been lucky to be self-sufficient, so you cannot buy me with crumbs. secondly, once you are objective, people will listen to you, and you are not available for crumbs, right? so that itself is key. and there has to be consistency between what you said yesterday, what you said a year ago, and what you’re saying today. so you must remember that’s why I’m saying sense of history, you must remember what your position was. you can’t just go around making all sorts of wild allegations and all that. No, but it’s to accept the reality that if I have a setback, it’s okay, this is what the reality is, and you have to deal with it. so there will always be setbacks, but you come and get over it.
What hobbies help you switch off from the intensity of economic analysis?
Well, I go to the gym, you know, see how things are, and you listen to alternative views across the world. so I’m not just focused on Nigeria, I’m focusing on what’s happening in Kosovo, I’m focusing on what’s happening in Brazil and argentina, seeing how it relates to us, right? We did something recently, where we said countries that have been victims of high inflation, Germany in the 20s, argentina, right, Brazil, and Zimbabwe. so, all those countries have come out of it because they dealt with it so head-on.
Do you have a favourite travel destination within Nigeria or abroad that helps you unwind?
Well, let me say that my favourite destination is Milan in Italy and Chicago in the united states. those are my favourites, but also London in the uK, those would be my key, because I’m able to understand the history there.
Finally, in terms of relaxation and leisure, is it music, art, or sports for you?
I think music and sports. soccer and athletics, track and field are my norm; that’s what I love to watch, and that’s it.
Tourists from different parts of the globe gathered under one roof at the 21st Akwaaba African Travel Market exhibition held recently in Lagos. Outside the venue of the exhibition, tourists, tour operators, journalists, and different stakeholders gathered at the registration desk to pick up their tags in order to have access into the hall. Those registered onsite also got their tags.
Inside the hall, tour operator companies, hotels, travel agencies, airlines, and tourism boards from different countries had their stands where they showcased tourism products. The popular Calabar Carnival girls who were dressed in colourful and elegant attires displayed different dance steps to the admiration of guests. It was three days of thoughtful leadership and engagement, high-level networking, knowledge sharing, celebration of excellence and connections.
The master of the ceremony, Ebele Enemchukwu, who looked splendid in her attire made of fabrics sourced locally, said, “If you have been coming to Akwaaba you may have missed your way trying to get into the hall today. That speaks of 21, and it comes with a different level of maturity.
“For over two decades, this gathering has not just been about exhibitions; it has been about bridges, creating connections and connecting people, countries, businesses, opportunities, and even dreams. Akwaaba has become what many would refer to as the heartbeat that beats even louder. Akwaaba hosts not one, not two, but seven great events under one roof and across three unforgettable days.
“We are honoured to have in our midst the finest leaders and visionaries, tourism champions of our time. We’re glad that you are here and your presence only affirms the fact that this gathering is not just significant but continues to say that the future of African tourism is brighter.
“But you see all of this would not have been possible without the vision and relentless commitment and dedication of one man who every year across his many platforms provides avenues for these conversations where we discuss and tackle the many critical issues facing travel and tourism in not just Nigeria but Africa.”
The Convener and Founder of Akwaaba African Travel Market, Ikechi Uko, who dressed in colourful African fabrics, revealed what inspired him to begin the travel expo 21 years ago.
“I was attending World Travel Markets (WTM) in London, and I found out that all of us have to come to London to sell Africa. And I said to myself, why can’t you get Africans to sell Africa in Africa? And when I pursued that vision, everybody said it was impossible.
“I got insulted. I got chased out of all the travel stands at ITB, at WTM, everywhere. And nobody believed Africans could travel within Africa. So when we started this vision in 2003, 2004, it was an impossible dream. Africans never travelled within Africa. It took like five years before Kenya, Zimbabwe got the vision. And they called me and said, okay, this thing you’re talking about, is it possible that we push it further? So the first countries that actually got involved were Kenya and Zimbabwe to try to sell Africa to Africans.
“Today, if you take Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, their biggest tourists come from Africa. But 15 years ago, nobody believed Africans could go to Africa. The future is very bright, we’re 1.5 to 1.7 billion people and we still get 70 million people a year. Imagine if only 10 per cent of Africans travelled within Africa. No African airline would lack passengers. No African destination would suffer and travel advisories would disappear. I had that vision in 2002, 2003. Today is a reality.
“I want everybody here to also have the vision that we will get 500 million Africans to travel within Africa. It is possible. There is a little map of America that I shared a few days ago. It said, Europeans say, we spend our holiday in America and see the Americans that all Europeans go to. There are only three states. Florida, New York, California, and a little bit in Vegas. That’s all America and Europe want. But where do the Americans go to? Americans are the engine room
of American tourism. That is why their President will say, “go to hell”. Why? There is enough domestic tourism to drive that economy. “
He added, “So in Africa, we have enough people with the resources. We have everything we need to be able to create the tourism that we need. That is what gave birth to Akwaaba. Today, we are 21 years. We didn’t disappear. And we are happy that that vision worked. Africans are the biggest travelers in Africa today. So we expect more.
“I expect that out of the 200 million Nigerians, more Nigerians will travel domestically, which is happening now. Because if you check, the bus companies are all bigger and richer than any airline in Nigeria. And this starts with huge capital, which means domestic tourism is thriving. If you check, with our less than one million foreign tourists, our hotels are declaring billions. Where does that money come from? From within. And every Nigerian billionaire became a billionaire in dollars without having foreign money coming to his pocket. All the money was made here. Imagine if we replicate this in 54 African nations. Africa will be great. Africa will be big, and Africa can achieve that through travel and tourism.”
Director General of the National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Dr. Abisoye Fagade, in his remarks, described the Akwaaba African Travel Market as a platform that has grown to become Africa’s premier marketplace for ideas, partnership, and innovation in travel and tourism.
According to him, “The gathering comes at a defining moment under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. Tourism and
creative economy have been identified as critical pillars for Nigeria’s economy’s diversification and sustainable growth.
“For us, the challenge and opportunity ahead is clear: Standardisation and preservation of the industry. From hotels to restaurants, from tours to operators to event managers, we must operate with globally recognised standards that inspire confidence, attract investment, and guarantee quality. This is why NIHOTOUR is driving the effort of ensuring registration, certification, and compliance across the value chain. Where every practitioner is properly recognised, regulated, we build trust with international visitors. Most importantly, create a tourism ecosystem that is credible, competitive, and future-ready.
“Akwaaba African Travel Market is more than an exhibition. This is a call to action. If he had not taken this action 21 years ago, I’m not sure we’d be here today. Once again, you can imagine having a son or a daughter 21 years ago. Thank you for taking that initiative 21 years and Nigeria owes you. It’s a call to action. A reminder that African tourism renaissance depends on how we all organise ourselves, regulate ourselves, and present ourselves to the world. It’s obvious that we need a common voice.”
Fagade, who dressed in a white Agbada, blue cap and beads on two hands, said Akwaaba was a vision of one man as he called on African to come together in order to replicate similar feat.
“It took them 21 years ago to organise this. One man’s idea, and all of us are coming together. If we refuse to organise ourselves, we might not be able to present ourselves to the world properly. We might be doing well individually, but with us together, we can only be stronger.
And with this kind of ideas, we need many more. We have 12 months a year. We can be having tourism events every year, different locations, different times in Nigeria.
“Let us therefore leave this forum with one shared resolve. To make African tourism not only vibrant and diverse, but also standardised, professional, and trusted worldwide. As I often say, if oil built yesterday’s Nigeria. Let tourism and hospitality also try to build Africa’s tomorrow,” Fagade said.
The NIHOTOUR boss, after cutting the tape to declare open the Akwaaba Travel Expo, visiting stands and watching the Calabar Carnival girls with other dignitaries, visited the Jollof Rice stand where 10 chefs from different hotels presented two flavours of Jollof rice. Journalists and foreign delegates sampled the Jollof rice and scored each chef.
Fagade, who tasted all the 20 flavours of Jollof rice, said “I have good news for you guys. I used Andrews Liver salt quite a bit. I can afford to sample all of them. But that being said, I like the fact that the conversation is always around the Jollof rice. And it’s the most talked about component in Africa. There’s nothing bad in the Jollof rice coming from Nigeria. It’s a gift of Nigeria to the world. Let me also use this moment to congratulate Hilda Barci for showing the world how to cook Jollof rice. But on the 6th of December this year, we’ll be doing something great for Nigeria too. The longest dining table.”
He announced a cash prize of N250,000, N150,000 and N100,000 to the first, second and third winners of the Jollof rice competition, including free registration at NIHOTOUR.
Those who attended the opening ceremony included Ciroma of Ilorin Emirate, Abubakar Bature Sulu-Gambari, SAN, the Chairman of Ilorin Emirates Dubar Committee, and Danmasani of Ilorin, Engr. Suleiman Yahaya Alapansanpa, High Commissioner of Rwanda to Nigeria, Ambassador Christophe Bazivamo, President of the Tour Operators Union of Ghana, TOUGHA Yvonne Donkor, and Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Ekow Sampson.
Others were President Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), Alhaji Aliyu Madaki, Head of School at the Institute of Travel and Tourism of The Gambia, Sheik Ahmed Tejan Iyang, Director General and CEO of Cross River State Tourism Bureau, Mr. Ojoi Ekpenyong, Expert in hospitality business, Mr. Olufemi Adefope, Managing Director of Business Travel Management (BTM) Ltd. and the Vice Chair for Nigeria on the Pan African Tourism Board, Ms Lola Adefope, Hadiza Garbati, CEO of TheXperts, Fifi Josephine Rurangwa, Group General Manager, Continental Hotels Nigeria, Karl Hala, wife of Akwaaba Founder, Mrs. Rita Ikechi Uko and many others.
She
wants to sleep with 100 men. Not for love, not for money, but for a Guinness World Record. In a country where young Nigerians are building apps, winning awards, and changing the world, one woman has chosen shock over substance—and the nation is watching, horrified, amused, and strangely fascinated, Adedayo Adejobi writes
When the news broke that a young Nigerian woman, Mandy Kiss, whose real name is Ayomiposi Oluwadahunsi Adefolarin, a Nigerian social media personality, digital influencer, model, skit maker, had vowed to sleep with 100 men in pursuit of a Guinness World Record, the internet gasped, groaned, and then laughed. Memes sprouted overnight, WhatsApp groups lit up with voice notes, and Twitter timelines turned into pulpits. Some were scandalised, others shrugged, but almost everyone had an opinion.Nigeria is no stranger to spectacle. From jollof rice feuds with Ghana to who wore what at Davido’s wedding, we live for headlines. Yet this particular quest, what some have christened a “bedathon,” struck a raw nerve.
In a country where young men and women are coding apps, winning global science fairs, and storming Afrobeats stages, one woman has chosen a path that evokes the biblical shadows of Sodom and Gomorrah.
But why? What makes someone wake up and decide that their ticket to history is through 100 sets of bedsheets? Is this about fame, sexual appetite, money, or something deeper?
The Guinness World Records have always had their oddballs. The man who ate a plane, the woman with the longest fingernails, the chap who wore 260 T-shirts at once. Bizarre feats are the bread and butter of the brand. Yet, there’s a line between eccentricity and scandal.
“I doubt Guinness will even recognise such a record,” chuckled Dr. Adim Okolo, a clinical psychologist in Lagos. “But that’s not the point. For this young woman, it’s not about Guinness. It’s about being seen. She is screaming to a society that often ignores young women unless they are saints or sinners. She has chosen the latter role because it guarantees attention.”
Okolo’s analysis cuts to the marrow. In an age of TikTok fame and Instagram reels, visibility itself has become currency.
A million likes can mean brand endorsements; trending on X (formerly Twitter) can land you an influencer deal. For some, notoriety is no less valuable than fame. As the psychologist noted, “It’s not the record that matters, it’s the virality.”
But can this also be about sexual satisfaction? A whisper of Freudian speculation lingers in the public mind. After all, why choose a feat that requires intimate exposure?
Dr. Ifeoma Danladi, a mental health expert and trauma therapist, is cautious about reducing the act to hedonism.
“We must avoid the trap of assuming this is purely about sexual gratification,” she said. “Often, when people use sex in such dramatic ways, it is less about pleasure and more about power, validation, or rebellion. It can be a response to trauma, to neglect, or to a deep sense of invisibility.”
Her point is sobering. In a country where mental health is still whispered about in hushed tones, such public stunts may well be desperate cries for help dressed in the costume of bravado.
Beyond psychology, there is the matter of culture. Nigeria is a society where tradition, religion, and communal values remain powerful. From Kano to Calabar, moral codes are woven into daily life.
“Sleeping with 100 men as a public project?” scoffed Alhaji Musa Audu, an elder in Kano. “In our day, such a person would be banished, not celebrated. This is against every fibre of our tradition. A woman carries the dignity of her family,
David-Chyddy eleke in Awka
Apressure group within the All Progressives Congress (APC), the APC Digital Force, has clarified a recent video of governorship candidates of the party, Nicholas Ukachukwu being harassed by some people over an allegation of N1billion indebtedness.
The group in a statement signed by its Team Leader, Ikeagwuonwu Chinedu Klinsmann, said the legal team of the candidate may sue media aides of Anambra State Governor, Dr. Ejimofor Opara and others for circulating the video and
not just herself. What she has done is drag that dignity into the mud.”
Harsh words, but revealing. For many Nigerians, female sexuality is not an individual matter but a collective one, tied to family honour and community standing. The idea that a woman might openly commercialise or politicise her body for fame is jarring, even sacrilegious.
And yet, one might argue, tradition itself is evolving. Just as Nollywood has blurred old boundaries of what women can do on screen, and Afrobeats has turned once-taboo lyrics into mainstream anthems, the boundaries of morality are shifting. Our young record-chaser may be less an aberration than a symbol of this restless transition between old codes and new freedoms.
Nigeria is hardly alone in this. Globally, young people are pushing the boundaries of what counts as content. From American influencers bathing in cereal bowls for clout, to YouTubers staging pranks in hospitals, shock has become a marketing strategy.
“This is the logical end of the attention economy,” argued Dr Sarah Agura, a sociologist. “When attention itself is monetised, people will push further and further to get it. Today it is 100 men; tomorrow it may be 200. The act is extreme, yes, but the logic behind it is perfectly consistent with what we see across the world.”
Sarah’s point reframes the narrative. Perhaps this is less about Nigeria’s supposed moral decay and more about our entanglement in a global digital economy where clicks equal cash.
But there’s another side to this circus: the impact on impressionable youths. Social media does not only amplify, it normalises. What one person does today for attention can become a template tomorrow for those who see no other paths to relevance.
“She may think it is just her life, but she is playing with young people’s minds,” warned Dr Danladi. “Teenagers are watching, and they are very suggestible. When a stunt like this goes viral, it tells them: if you want to be noticed, shock the world, no matter the cost.”
Already, copycat culture is rife online. A challenge on TikTok can leap continents in hours. A prank on YouTube can spark hundreds of imitations. The danger is not only the act itself but its symbolism: that self-worth can be built on reckless spectacle.
As youth activist Oladejo Adewunmi put it, “We fight every day to tell young people that their bodies, their talent, and their brains are enough. Then something like this happens, and it feels like ten steps backwards. Instead of celebrating coders, scientists, and creatives, we risk raising a generation that believes only in cheap shock value.”
The influence is not limited to Nigeria. Africa’s young population is the most connected in history. A scandal in Lagos today can be trending in Nairobi by morning, in Johannesburg by evening. The danger multiplies.
Behind the memes and laughter lies the unspoken risk: sexually transmitted infections, psychological scars, and the commodification of the female body.
“It is troubling,” warned Danladi again. “Sex is not a mechanical act. It leaves imprints on the psyche, especially when done under pressure or spectacle. The woman may think she is in control, but often such stunts end with regret, shame, and long-term emotional fallout.”
Public health experts, too, raise concerns. “Nigeria is still grappling with high rates of HIV among young people,” said Dr. Abdulwaris Sule, a Lagos-based epidemiologist. “A stunt like this could normalise risky behaviour and send a dangerous message to impressionable youths.”
Still, one must tread carefully. It is easy to condemn, to cast stones from the comfort of one’s own morality. Yet every spectacle has a human being at its centre.
What circumstances birthed this decision? Was it poverty, trauma, or simply an unquenchable thirst for fame? Until we know her full story, she remains both villain and victim. And therein lies the paradox. To dismiss her as immoral is to ignore the forces of a society that equates worth with visibility. To defend her uncritically is to risk normalising recklessness. The truth lies, as it often does, in the tension between empathy and accountability.
Biblical metaphors abound, but perhaps the story of Lot’s wife is most fitting. She looked back at the burning city and turned to salt. Our record-chaser may not turn into a pillar, but she risks being frozen in time—as “that woman who tried to sleep with 100 men”—rather than remembered for any other gift she may carry.
For in the end, fame is a fragile crown. It dazzles today and evaporates tomorrow. Just ask the countless reality show con- testants whose names we no longer recall. The internet devours novelty, then moves on, leaving behind wreckage.
Thankfully, Guinness World Records has swiftly clarified that they do not monitor such activities. Responding directly to the controversy, GWR stated, “This is not a record we monitor.” This unequivocal rejection underscores the necessity of aligning personal ambitions with established standards and ethical consid- erations. While the desire for recognition is understandable, it is crucial to pursue achievements that contribute positively to society and uphold dignity.
Perhaps the real story is not about her but about us. Why did this stunt so quickly dominate headlines? Why do we click, share, and laugh, even as we claim to disapprove?
making the accusation.
The video which trended on social media early last week saw some people accusing Ukachukwu of indebtedness, while blocking him from entering his car in a hotel in Abuja. The video was circulated widely by the most aides of Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
But in the statement, Ikeagwuonwu said: “Ndi Anambra know Governor Soludo’s style of politics — more invested in blackmailing opponents than presenting achievements.
“We also note that defamation of character is not free speech but a criminal offense. Evang. Ukachukwu’s legal team reserves the right to pursue
The management of Excel College, Ejigbo, Lagos, has embarked on a comprehensive reformation of the school’s hostel system with emphasis on surveillance facilities to avoid a repeat of a breach of its code of conduct by students and staff.
Recall that a viral video on social media recently showed some students of the school smoking and drinking what was suspected to be alcohol at a social gathering within the school hostel premises in Ejigbo.
Describing the viral video as malicious and witchhunting, a recent video on the social media which portrayed the school in a bad light, the Lagos State Ministry of Education waded into the development and invited the management of the school as it began
to investigate the content of the video.
Reacting to the unfortunate development, the Director of the school, Dr. Dele Oke explained that the video in question was far from the truth as it was doctored by those behind it to portray the school in a bad light with an ulterior motive to bring the school down.
According to him the video was two separate incidents that happened in April and May, but were made to appear as if it was from the same occasion by those behind the plot to achieve their evil objective. In the video, one could hear the voice-over repeatedly saying, ‘go and withdraw your children from this school’.
He said that the management of the school was on top of the matter as punitive measures are being taken against those found to have breached the school’s
rules and regulations.
While expressing regrets over the incident and accepting responsibility, Oke assured that the management of the school had learnt a lesson, and has put in place measures to ensure that such doesn’t happen again.
‘’Yes, there were incidents that happened with our graduating students in April and May but what was presented on that video was far from the truth. Obviously there was manipulation in the video, in the sequence of events, and then it was sensationally doctored to achieve a mischievous objective. The voice over on the video was saying they should take away students from the school. They should close down the school. And we all saw that.
appropriate remedies against Mazi Opara and his collaborators.”
Setting the record straight, the team leader said: “As an organisation committed to truth and justice, the APC Digital Force feels compelled to put the records straight, not for the benefit of Mazi Opara and his paymasters — whose politics of smear is already well known to Ndi Anambra — but for the unsuspecting public, both in Nigeria and abroad, who may be misled by this campaign of calumny.
“The land transaction in question was governed by a duly signed Installment Payment Agreement between Evang. Ukachukwu (Vendor) and Zoe New Dawn Nigeria Ltd, chaired by Chief Stephen Achema Akpa (Purchaser), executed on 11th August, 2022, covering Plots 7 and 8, Cadastral Zone E29, Lugbe East, Abuja, valued at N6billion. “The agreement clearly provided for staggered payment: an initial deposit of N1.75billion, followed by structured installments to complete the purchase price. But Mr. Stephen Akpa could not come up with this initial deposit and paid only N850million and requested access to the plots without completing the payment.
The Providus-Unity deal signals more than a merger; it is a bold step to protect shareholder value, restore confidence, and reshape the future of Nigeria’s banking landscape,
writes Omolabake Fasogbon
The business combination between Providus Bank and Unity Bank marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s financial sector, coming at a time when investor confidence and shareholder value have been under intense scrutiny.
In Nigeria’s banking environment, where institutions under the regulation of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) are faced with a recapitalisation hurdle with a March 31, 2026, deadline, this merger represents not just the unification of assets but also a strategic step towards creating a stronger, more competitive institution.
It is a move that signals stability, renews optimism, and sends a reassuring message to stakeholders that value preservation remains a top priority.
For Unity Bank, the deal comes as a lifeline, providing an opportunity to overcome years of structural and balance sheet challenges that had weighed heavily on its operations. For Providus Bank, it is a chance to scale further, expand reach, and leverage synergies that will position the combined entity as a force to reckon with in Nigeria’s fast-evolving banking space. Together, both banks have an opportunity to chart a new course defined by innovation, efficiency, and trust, setting a standard for future industry consolidations.
Beyond the immediate financial benefits, the Providus-Unity deal represents a test of the industry’s ability to inspire confidence. By prioritising transparency, safeguarding shareholder interests, and building a culture of accountability, the new entity is expected to play a central role in deepening financial inclusion and restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s banking system. The success of this merger could well determine how future business combinations are perceived—not merely as survival strategies, but as platforms for lasting value creation.
To guarantee that success, yesterday, shareholders and boards of Providus Bank and Unity Bank overwhelmingly approved a business combination of the two institutions at a court-ordered Extraordinary General Meeting, marking a significant moment for Nigeria’s banking sector.
In a joint statement, both banks expressed deep appreciation to the CBN for its foresight, determination and steadfast support of a stronger financial system. They noted that the regulator’s backing of this transaction underscores its commitment to resilience, stability, and customer confidence.
“This regulatory support is not only shaping healthier banks, but also inspiring the confidence of businesses, investors, and everyday Nigerians that our financial system is ready to serve as a cornerstone for sustainable growth,” the statement noted.
The vote was also a signal to the markets, to regulators, and to the wider public that Nigeria’s
banking sector remains robust and forwardlooking.
In affirming this merger, the statement said, shareholders have helped to reinforce the confidence that underpins economic stability.
“It is a statement that Nigerian banks are prepared to adapt, consolidate, and grow in line with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s vision of a stronger and more resilient financial system—and ultimately, its aspiration to support Nigeria’s transition into a trillion-dollar economy.”
The merged institution will launch with a solid capital base, a nationwide footprint of approximately 230 branches, and the capacity to serve businesses, households, and government agencies across the country. Unity Bank brings a proud legacy of faithful service to customers, while Providus adds a reputation for innovation and excellent digital banking platforms, creating a combined bank capable of competing at the highest level.
“The enlarged bank will provide the backbone for businesses to thrive and communities to prosper”, the statement assured.
It also noted that the merger of the two institutions, when completed, would secure jobs, protect livelihoods, and create new opportunities within a bigger, stronger, and future-oriented institution. “The success of this merger rests not only on systems and balance sheets but on people—and their contribution will be safeguarded and celebrated.”
“This historic transaction is not simply about numbers; it is about confidence in the Nigeria financial system. By combining Providus Bank and Unity Bank, we are creating an institution
of scale and substance- that will give confidence to customers, strength to the financial system and create opportunity for our people,” the statement added.
In addition, the merger ushers in a new chapter – a bank that is bigger in ambition, broader in reach, and stronger in capacity. It will embody the values of innovation, empathetic relationship management, customer focus, and integrity. With enhanced technology platforms, deeper capital strength, and a commitment to customer service, the enlarged bank will stand as both a guardian of stability and a catalyst for growth in Nigeria’s journey toward a trillion-dollar economy.
Prior to this meeting, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) had on Thursday offloaded 34 per cent of its stake in Unity Bank Plc to Providus Bank. The move had strengthened the business combination deal between both banks. In all, 34 per cent total equity stake in Unity Bank was transacted through a crossed deal on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) to the preferred bidder, 24 hours ahead of their Court-Ordered Meeting to approve the scheme of merger.
The transaction was completed involving four billion Unity Bank shares at N1.66 per share, amounting to over N6.5 billion in value. A total of three deals were carried out on Unity Bank shares on the Exchange on September 25, 2025.
Providus Bank began operations in June 2017. It is licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria to provide banking services to individuals and businesses. The bank has a strong IT infrastructure and digital channels which it deploys to provide exceptional service to our customers so they can
achieve their objectives.
Providus Bank is an innovative financial institution that provides personal, private, corporate, commercial and digital banking products and solutions.
Its tailored financial services delivery includes: Business Advisory, Portfolio Management, Personalised Relationship Management, Fasttracked Service delivery and Self-service solutions. Providus Bank competitive advantage in Private, Institutional, Business and Personal Banking is driven by the philosophy to create support and value for Institutions, Agencies, SMEs and HNIs. Its business development strategy also focuses on developing expertise and collaborating to improve the non-oil (emerging) sector of the Nigerian Economy, which includes but not limited to Agriculture, Mining, Hospitality, E-commerce, and Art & Entertainment.
Providus Bank believes that the New World of Fast, Smart, Personal, and Borderless banking relationship is here. We are therefore inspired by our Future Forward Banking ethos to make life (at work and leisure) more exciting for our partners with the use of cutting-edge technology that delivers best-in-class customer satisfaction.
In less than 10 years, Providus Bank has emerged as one of the fastest-growing financial institutions in the country.
Through this merger, Providus aims to transform from a niche player into a national bank, leveraging Unity Bank’s over 211-branch network spread across all 36 states and the FCT.
The move aligns with Providus’ broader strategy to deepen its retail presence and diversify its customer base.
Additionally, Providus Bank would significantly benefit from scale in retail banking as it would expand its footprint from a largely digital operation to a full-fledged national player.
It also brings in a strong SME lending pipeline, especially in agriculture, mining, e-commerce, hospitality, and entertainment sectors, which both banks already support.
Providus plans to integrate its technology stack into Unity Bank’s branch network, enhancing service delivery and cost efficiency. The bank believes the combined entity will unlock new value across its retail, SME, and digital channels. Also, Providus Bank was recently named one of the best workplaces in banking in 2025 by the Great Place to Work (GPTW), a global leader in workplace culture. The recognition highlights the bank’s efforts to create an environment where employees feel supported, engaged and motivated.
According to GPTW, the award was based largely on staff feedback, which has become an increasingly important measure of how organisations are adapting to shifting workforce expectations.
Stories by Omolabake Fasogbon
Rite Foods Limited has expanded its product portfolio in the market with the launch of Bigi Flex Sausage Roll.
The new product comes at a time when Nigeria’s packaged snack industry is becoming increasingly competitive, with brands seeking to retain market share and respond to shifting consumer preferences.
This is further driven by urbanisation, youth demographics, and rising demand for convenient food options.
Managing Director of the company, Seleem Adegunwa, stated that the new product was developed with changing consumer lifestyles in mind, particularly the need for quick, filling, and reliable snacks in an economy where disposable income continues to be stretched.
He said, “Bigi Flex was created with our consumers’ well-being and lifestyle in mind. It is nutritious, refreshing, and perfect for anyone looking for a snackon-the-go that doesn’t compromise on taste or quality.
“At Rite Foods, we are committed to delivering innovations that keep our consumers excited and satisfied, and Bigi Flex is another step in that direction,” he said
Adegunwa added that the latest demonstrates the company’s strategic marketing appeal in ensuring consumers get reinvigorated, high-quality product that promises satisfaction.
“Positioned as the ultimate expression of choice and creativity, Bigi Flex taps into the growing desire among Gen Zs and young adults for variety, adventure, and self-expression. With its unique beefy taste combination, every bite becomes an opportunity to show off your vibe and personality”, he informed.
Culinary brand, Gino under GBFoods Nigeria has renewed its commitment to advancing Nigerian cuisine globally, following its collaboration with Guinness World Record holder, Chef Hilda Baci.
The partnership sealed during the recordbreaking preparation of Nigeria’s largest pot of Asun Jollof rice recently is being positioned as a strategic move to elevate Nigerian food as a cultural and economic export.
Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, Managing Director of GBFoods Nigeria, Vincent Egbe, stated that the milestone underscored the company’s legacy of innovation, cementing Nigeria’s place on the global culinary map.
He said, “Over a decade ago, we transformed the market by introducing tomato paste in sachets. Since then, we’ve consistently innovated to reflect authentic Nigerian cooking. This record is not about size, it’s about originality, creativity, and pride in our culinary traditions.”
Egbe reiterated further that the brand’s strategy is rooted in creating products that blend convenience with cultural identity.
“Our flagship innovations like the Asun seasoning cubes with tomato paste and Peppered Chicken variants are marketed not just as cooking aids but as authentic taste profiles that embody Nigeria’s food heritage”, he informed.
Marketing Director at GBfoods Nigeria, Oreoluwa Atinmo, added that the record offered a platform to highlight the brand’s evolution to championing African food culture globally.
Gino is in almost every Nigerian kitchen, but this achievement amplified the story behind our innovations. This also avails the opportunity to soft launch our seasoning and maxi packs for bulk cooking, which aligns with the realities of Nigerian households and events,” she said.
For Hilda Baci, the collaboration with the brand was both personal and symbolic.
toyota (Nigeria) Limited (tNL) yesterday hosted an award ceremony for Aroh Joseph Chidera precious, who has been recognised as a best Finalist at the 2025, 18th toyota Dream Car Art Contest. the award ceremony was attended by Aroh Joseph Chidera precious’ parents, school teachers and administrative staff.
the managing Director, toyota (Nigeria) Limited, mr Kunle Ade-Ojo, stated that the toyota Dream Car Art Contest, a global Corporate Social responsibility initiative by toyota motor Corporation, aims to inspire children to imagine a future car and, in doing so, foster a creative and caring mindset. the competition encourages children to envision a green, peaceful world full of smiles, nurturing a lifelong connection with them and our planet.
He said for her outstanding performance, precious has earned a prize of $3,000, to be used strictly for her educational pursuits. She will also receive a commemorative shield from toyota motor Corporation and a certificate and trophy from Toyota Nigeria Ltd.
He said Aroh Joseph Chidera precious’art presented “A Vision for a better World”.
“It is a great pleasure to gather today and celebrate another young luminary, Aroh Joseph Chidera precious, who has been recognised as a best Finalist at the 2025, 18th toyota Dream Car Art Contest.
As the Abuja International motor Fair turns 25 this year, and with its return to the eagle Square in Abuja, the organisers say it has been packaged to attract policymakers and industry leaders from Nigeria and across the globe.
Ahead of the landmark Silver Jubilee edition, which holds from November 18-25, 2025, the Organising Committee of the event, has said the fair has been strategically packaged to boost investments in Nigeria’s automotive sector, while drawing greater attention from policymakers at all levels of government, and the industry, locally and internationally.
Kunle Ade-Ojo said, “precious’s exceptional artistry and vision have once again placed Nigeria on the global stage. Her winning masterpiece, ‘VIrUJS VACUUm,’ is a powerful concept that imagines a world free of illness and viruses like
“precious’s achievement echoes the historic win two years ago by Oluwademilade David Odumuboni, who became the first Nigerian to win a Global Grand prize in the same competition. It is a remarkable coincidence and a testament to the nurturing environment of their shared school that both of these golden talents hail from the same place.”
COVID-19. “through her art, she has shown a profound empathy and a brilliant imagination, turning a compelling idea into an outstanding creation. “We will hear more about her artwork later, but for now,let us give our dear precious a well-deserved standing ovation. She has made Nigeria, toyota Nigeria Ltd., and her school incredibly proud.
Leading Chinese truck manufacturer, JAC motors, has urged the Federal Government to fast-track the signing of Nigeria’s automotive policy into law, describing it as a critical move that will unlock foreign investments, deepen local assembly operations and reduce reliance on imported used vehicles.
The call was made by the General Manager, JAC motors, mr. Oscar Yu, during a strategic visit to Lanre Shittu motors’ JAC truck assembly plant located along the Apapa-Oshodi expressway in Lagos.
Describing Lanre Shittu motors as a great partner, Yu praised the company’s efforts in assembling JAC trucks locally, even amidst Nigeria’s economic challenges.
He stressed that a properly legislated automotive policy would attract more Original equipment manufacturers (Oems) into the country, enabling the production of affordable, brand-new trucks with better return on investment for buyers.
“We are ready to work closely with the Nigerian government to grow the automotive sector. Signing the policy into law will help stabilize investors confidence and encourage more local assembly,” Yu said.
the JAC boss also highlighted the potential of Nigeria’s vast market of over 200 million people, noting that with the right policy environment, JAC could help bridge the gap between the dominance of used vehicles and the availability
of affordable, high-quality new trucks.
Yu noted that continued importation of used vehicles hurts the economy by limiting job creation and undermining local production capacity.
“Nigeria is a huge market with great potential. With local technical talent and a supportive government policy, the country can become a hub for truck manufacturing in West Africa,” he added.
On the partnership with Lanre Shittu motors,
Yu expressed satisfaction with the progress so far, pledging continued support in areas such as technical training, spare parts supply and after-sales service.
“We take care of our partners, customers, and staff. Our products are of high quality, and we believe that’s our biggest selling point. We’re happy with what LSm has done and are fully committed to growing this partnership,” he affirmed.
According to the Committee, “this edition is designed to underline the importance of developing the automotive sector to enhance Nigeria’s socio-economic growth. We have embarked on stakeholder engagements with government ministries, departments and agencies, as well as automotive companies, to ensure the fair becomes a platform for addressing industry challenges and advancing opportunities.”
It disclosed that responses from both the public and private sectors have been very encouraging, especially following the adoption of the event by the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), which played a key role in returning the exhibition to eagle Square. Under the leadership of its Director-General, Mr. Joseph Wemimo Osanipin, the NADDC has been spearheading initiatives to encourage local automobile and component manufacturing. the council is expected to use the fair to showcase the progress achieved in that direction.
Industry analysts note that the NADDC’s efforts have laid a solid foundation for industrial competitiveness, positioning Nigeria not only as a promising market but also as a potential hub for automotive innovation, production, and distribution across Africa.
“this year’s fair will provide a “litmus test” for the state of the industry in light of current economic realities, as virtually all major automobile brands in Nigeria are expected to participate. the fair will also highlight complementary sectors, including spare parts, accessories, lubricants, heavy equipment, financial services, and regulatory agencies.
“With the support we have received, exhibitors at the fair should expect a bumper harvest,” it said. “From top government officials—led by the Vice President, the minister of Industry, trade and Investment, and other federal, state and local government executives—to corporate leaders and everyday Nigerians, the event promises something valuable for every participant.”
the Abuja International motor Fair remains Nigeria’s premier platform for showcasing automobiles and related products. Organizers are confident that the 25th edition holding November 18-21, 2025 at the eagle Square, will not only celebrate the resilience of the sector but also chart a path for its sustainable growth.
Spiro, Africa’s largest electric mobility solutions, hosted its highly anticipated media Connect event at the radisson blu Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. the event brought together over 30 journalists, media professionals, and industry stakeholders to explore the future of transportation in Nigeria and the role electric mobility will play in shaping it.
the gathering served as a strategic platform for Spiro Nigeria to showcase its innovative electric bikes and reaffirm its commitment to building a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable mobility ecosystem.
Driving Change, One Ride at a Time
Director of Spiro West Africa, Rahul Gaur, presented its mission to reduce carbon emissions, improve urban mobility, and empower riders with affordable,
eco-friendly transport options.
“We’re thrilled to engage directly with the media and share our journey toward transforming transportation in Nigeria,” said Gaur.
“Electric mobility isn’t just the future—it’s the now. And Nigeria is ready to embrace it.”
Attendees were treated to live demonstrations of Spiro’s electric bike, with hands-on sessions that allowed them to experience the technology firsthand the event also featured an interactive Q&A session, where journalists had the opportunity to ask questions about Spiro’s operations, expansion plans, and customer experience.
Expanding Footprint and Community Impact
Spiro Nigeria has already made significant strides in Lagos and is actively expanding into other key cities across the country like Ogun, Abuja, taraba, Niger, Nasarawa, and Gombe.
A former Managing Director of National Inland Waterways and Governorship candidate of Labour Party in the forthcoming Anambra State governorship election, Chief George Moghalu, tells Adedayo Akinwale, that the Independent National Electoral Commission must play by the rules in the forthcoming election.
After traversing the entire landscape of Anambra ahead of the governorship election, what is your assessment of the situation, and what are your chances of winning the election?
To be very sincere with you, the feedback I have gotten so far is encouraging. There is that clamour, across board, for a change in the leadership in the state. For me, I am very much encouraged by the responses we are getting, and we need to sustain it until the election is conducted.
The Bible advises that before you go for a war, you should take an assessment of the strength of your opponent. What are your fears concerning this election?
I don’t have fears for now because I know that power belongs to God. He gives to whom he pleases at His own time. What we are doing is to make ourselves available for the will of God to manifest. That is exactly what we are doing, but as for the decision on who will lead Anambra state, it is in the hands of the people. We are only marketing ourselves, presenting ourselves to the people to assess and take an informed decision as we get nearer to the D-day.
Is contesting against the incumbent not supposed to constitute fear for you?
Why should it constitute fear to me when incumbents have been defeated before in Nigeria and even in Anambra State in particular? Yes, it is going to be a herculean task, but it is possible. It is doable, and we will do it again this time.
You have said this election is not a do-or-die for you, do you still hold on to that belief?
That has always been my position in everything I do because I know that we must not remove the God factor in whatever we are doing. If I say that it is a do or die, supposing I die before the date, what will happen? Will it stop the process? The answer is no because life will continue to move on.
I am very sure that you won’t downplay the crisis in your party, LP, how has it affected or helped you?
I have no problem with the crisis in the party. The truth about the crisis is that it is about national issue. It has nothing to do with us in Anambra State. We are stable, we are united, we are formidable as LP in the state, and we are going about doing our campaign. I, being an experienced party administrator, have been fully involved in campaign processes.
Everybody is involved. We are focused to achieve success. What are those messages of hopes you are taking to the Anambra electorate to convince them to vote for you?
Yes, I have already assured and reassured our people that Anambra shall be well again. What it implies is that we are going to change the narrative and things will certainly be better again. We are bringing in programmes that will help our people to recalibrate, rejig the entire process, and then come out with something better that will make our state great again.
We have a programme and plan to address the issue of insecurity, which is of major concern today in my state. Our action plan is contained in our manifesto where we have made promises, the contract we will enter with the people, which we intend to judiciously follow. We are fully prepared, and will start from day one if it pleases God for the will of the people to prevail.
Looking at the journey so far, what will you
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has flagged off the construction of road Infrastructure in Karsana district, where President Bola Tinubu launched the 3,000 units of Renewed Hope Agenda Estate last year.
At the occasion yesterday, Wike said the FCT Administration embarked on the Karsana project in line with the President’s directive asking the FCT to provide road network to link up the new estate and other estates within the district.
He commended the contractors Lubricks for moving to site before they were mobilized, saying
the action was a show of confidence in the FCT Administration that would not be taken for granted.
Wike elaborated: “I have told everybody who cares and whether you like it or not, what we cannot run away from is that, no city can be said to be a city without a good network of roads. That is basic, and what defines a city first, is the network of roads then you talk about other facilities.
“Of all these houses you are seeing here, without any network of roads, it makes no sense. If you want to bring in a hospital here without roads, it makes no sense. If you want to build schools here without roads,
it makes no sense. So the first thing you must provide, as to attract even investors, is the road network, which is what we are doing. And before you know it, all of here would have been open”.
The minister assured the residents of Karsana district that he would ensure adequate provision of funding for the project to enable its inauguration in 2026 for the third year of anniversary of the President in office. He lauded the Executive Secretary, FCDA and his team for ensuring that the many road network contracts that were ongoing were being completed and with the quality required.
aiwo prosper
It was a solemn yet celebratory gathering at the Chapel of the Transfiguration, LUTH Idi-Araba, yesterday, as family, friends, colleagues, and associates bade farewell to the late Prof. Oyinade Wuraola Elebute, a pioneering scholar, medical leader, and mentor to generations.
Delivering the sermon, the Rector of the Chapel, Ven. Dr. Dade Sadare, described the late professor as a woman of unwavering faith whose life embodied integrity, prosperity, and service. Reflecting on Apostle Paul’s words, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith,” Sadare urged the congregation to live purposefully and remain steadfast in times of trial.
“This chapel is not just walls of stone; it is a place of memory and transformation. Mama lived as a
fighter, a woman of faith, and a source of light. The question we must ask ourselves today is: what will be said of our own lives when we finish our race?” he charged.
In her tribute, President of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (Lagos branch), Dr. Funmilayo Ige, recalled Elebute’s towering legacy within the association and beyond. She noted that Prof. Elebute served as the second president of the University of Ibadan branch between 1979 and 1981, later becoming national president, and eventually chair of the Board of Trustees until 2023.
“Mama was a teacher, a mentor, and a healer. She carried the motto ‘healing with the love of a mother’ and lived it fully. Though many of us never worked directly with her, we have felt her impact through those she trained and mentored.
We are all her great-grand mentees,” Ige said, as she placed a symbolic sash on the late professor’s casket.
Born on February 16, 1934, Prof. Elebute was one of the foundation members of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, and later became Professor and Head of Physiology. Her distinguished career included international research fellowships, pioneering contributions to renal physiology, and co-founding Hygeia Nigeria Limited, operators of Lagoon Hospitals.
She was also a past national president of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria, a fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine (UK), and a trustee of several educational and professional bodies.
consider the most teething challenges you have encountered so far, probably during the campaign or elsewhere?
It is certainly insecurity. It has always been the major problem, and it cuts across every facet of the state. For me, it remains the major problem. You see, a situation where you have to go with a retinue of armed men. It does not really sink well with me because of who I am as a man who prefers a very simple lifestyle. I prefer to be on the quiet side. I prefer people having unhindered access to me. But I cannot take that risk with the security situation now. So, we have to move about fortified, and move about fully prepared to be able to face the challenges as they come. For me, that is the major challenge. I hope and pray that the local security outfit the state government assembled, which all of us know is political, will not be deployed for elections because we will resist them.
One area often referenced in this Anambra election is the issue of claims of endorsement by President Bola Tinubu, but why are you not talking about such endorsement, or could it be that your antecedent with the APC is hunting you?
No, no... I have a good relationship with President Tinubu. I made that point very clear, and I am sure that Mr. President has nothing against me. The President is not a voter in Anambra State. He has no vote in the state. The best any of us can get from him is to wish us well. I am sure the President, being a democrat, will not want to be involved in this electioneering process. So why do I have to worry about his endorsement?
But, why are you not dropping his name like others? Why should I have to drop his name? I should rather drop my name because I am a brand. I can also drop Peter Obi’s name because he comes from the state. He is a voter in Anambra state.
How has your relationship with Obi helped you so far in the build-up to this election?
It has been very positive, and he has contributed immensely. If we must be honest with ourselves, Peter Obi is a very big brand, particularly in Anambra State where I come from. So, you can only ignore him at your own peril. But the question is, why should I ignore him? Why?
What informed your choice of picking a female as your running mate?
I hinged my decision on gender balancing, coupled with the fact that she has the capacity. She is a very experienced teacher, a retired Principal, the President-General of Association of Anambra State Town Unions (ASATU) women’s wing.
She is also playing in the high league in the Anglican Communion and I am a Catholic. We needed to balance the ticket by getting the women involved. Let them be part of what we are doing. I have actually gotten what I was looking for in a running mate.
She is an asset and she is contributing very positively. I told you her pedigree and I would not have asked for any other credential than what she has.
How much trust do you have in INEC in conducting this election?
For me, it is not about trust. I have said it time and time again that INEC has the opportunity to redeem its image. As we speak, the image is at very low ebb. Anambra state governorship election provides INEC with another opportunity for it to redeem itself.
The commission must do what is right, follow the rules it made. We didn’t make the rules for INEC. It made the rules for us to obey, and it must follow the rules, play according to the rules it made so that it can win back the confidence of the people. I have said it, and let me repeat that an average Anambra man has lost confidence in the process. That is why we have over two million registered voters, and we elected the governor with 112,000 votes. It goes to show the level of apathy. It goes to say, we don’t believe in this system. We don’t trust the commission. It is incumbent on INEC to change this perception, whether it is real or not; they need to change it. They need to do things so that people will say; now INEC has changed, my vote will count, I must vote, and I must determine who will lead me. The moment we get to that stage, the electoral process will be smooth.
Ferdinand Ekechukwu - 08035011394
Email: ferdi_adthisday@yahoo.com
From the beginning, filmmakerVictor Okpala’s path seemed destined to be different.While his mother envisioned him in the pulpit as a full-time pastor and others pushed for the courtroom as a lawyer, he always knew his heart belonged to the arts. In this conversation, he tells Ferdinand Ekechukwu, that for him, storytelling is not just a profession but a calling, one he believes aligns perfectly with God’s plan for his life
tellusaboutyourjourney into the movie industry?
Well, right from childhood, I have always been a lover of the arts. From literary and debating society to cultural groups in secondary schools, I knew I would end up in the arts sector. When I entered the university, even though I was in the social sciences, I was always with the theatre department, rehearsing and holding drama sessions. Once I left school, I knew where to go, but I had to work here and there before heading off to film school. Once I got back, I registered my company and started with tV series production eagle eye, which was syndicated in about 18 stations nationwide. While doing tV, I started working with other filmmakers as a producer or line producer, then went on to direct and the rest they say is history.
Howlonghaveyoubeenintheindustry and how many movie projects have you been involved in?
I have been around professionally since 2010 and I have done over 40 TV films, 10 tV series and about 5 cinema projects. Whathastheexperiencebeenlikeworking
in the industry as a filmmaker?
the experience has been good and rewarding. Sometimes you face a big challenge that will almost make you want to give up but you keep striving and of course it gets better by the day.
Whatwasyouraspirationgrowingup?
Like I said earlier, I had always wanted to be in the arts but as a small boy I didn’t quite know what part of arts business I will be in but I always knew. example, I wrote an entire magazine as a junior secondary student and wanted to publish it. I read every novel or magazine I could lay my hands on, watched every foreign film or cartoon released then. All those things shaped my love for the arts. my mum wanted me to be a full-time pastor and others wanted me to be a lawyer but here I am doing what God has ordained me to do.
What aspect of your growing-up years influenced your present career in filmmaking?
I was an avid reader of every magazine or novel you can think of. I was a very introverted young man growing up with my granny; I had all the time to read every book, novel and magazines. I
watched a lot of Hollywood films. I also grew up on local magazines like papa Ajasco, Dauda and the likes. I remember I used to buy those mini magazines with my lunch money while in secondary school. So, yes, that aspect shaped me. I also sang in the choir and church band.
What inspires the type/kind of stories you tell?
So many events in and around my life always inspires me to tell my kind of stories. I grew up watching rambo and the likes, mr. bean for comedy and many other cartoons. So, I like to tell more of action stories or what we call thriller.
Areyouadepttomakinganyparticular genre or film?
I love to make action-packed movies that will keep people on the edge of their seats and off course topped with romance and a lot of drama. black panther is a movie I will never forget in a hurry. We are getting there by God’s grace.
What’s your goal as a filmmaker? my goal is simple; to keep getting better at my craft and satisfying my teeming fans with every of my film and of course better things will always follow.
Tosin Clegg
As the last quarter of 2025 draws closer, rapper and Singer, Omoniyi temdayo raphael, known professionally as Zlatan Ibile has announced the release of his 3rd album he titled ‘Symbol of Hope,’ set to be released on the 17th of October 2025. Over the years, he has played an active role on the music scene and done a whole lot for himself with successful singles and collaborations, which have earned him well-deserved accolades and recognitions.
Sequel to this announcement, it is worth noting that Zlatan first made waves with his debut album, Zanku in 2019, which cemented
Lights, Camera, Africa! (LCA!) Film Festival in collaboration with mbari Kola, the Arts Society, will host a special 10th anniversary screening of the movie, Faaji Agba, a landmark documentary by filmmaker remi Vaughan-richards, on October 1 2025, at Agip Hall, muson Center, Lagos.
First premiered in Nigeria at the LCA! Film Festival in 2015, Faaji Agba chronicles the revival of Lagos’ forgotten highlife greats, brought together by music historian Kunle tejuoso. the film has since endured as a cultural time capsule, reviving the voices of veteran musicians and reintroducing their timeless sound to new generations.
Founder, LCA! Film Festival, Ugoma ebilah, stated that a decade later, Faaji Agba continues to echo with the pulse of Lagos, reminding viewers of the power of music to preserve memory and cultural legacy.
“We are proud to celebrate this milestone as we also mark the revival journey of the festival in collaboration with mbari Kola,” she added. the event, which opens at 4 pm, will also feature talks and a question and answer session with the legendary filmmaker, Vaughan-richards, socials, and listening sessions by Kunle tejuosho alongside a throwback to the original film trailer.
his place as a force in the Afrobeats scene. He followed up with his sophomore project, resan , in 2021, delivering some of his most acclaimed tracks that not only showcased his versatility but also propelled his career to the enviable heights he proudly enjoys today. but taking things a bit back, he has consistently carved a niche for himself in the ever-busy Afrobeats scene, blending streetinspired rhythms with lyrical authenticity that resonates with fans across the board. Another remarkable edge he has is the ability to create viral dance trends, which has kept him at the forefront of Nigeria’s music culture. With each release, he has demonstrated growth and versatility, setting the stage for this new album to potentially mark a defining chapter in his career.
the singer and his fans have been building
anticipation across his social media platforms with the intriguing album art that was released. What’s fascinating is the facial expression detailed in the poster. As usual, Zlatan brings his signature style that is explorative and laced with subtle artistic expression. However, the album cover hints at something deeper: a more personal project that could reflect his journey, life experiences, and evolving artistry. While the imagery alone may not provide a definitive conclusion, it sparks curiosity and raises anticipation, leaving both fans and critics eager to see how Zlatan translates his story into sound.
As fans await the release, one thing is certain: Zlatan’s new album is set to spark conversations, inspire reflection, and add another bold chapter to his evolving legacy in Nigerian music.
It was the premiere of “Gingerrr” recently and it turned out a celebration of style as much as it was of film. With a peaky blinders-inspired theme, the red carpet turned into a playground for 1920s glamour with a modern twist. Celebrity guests fully embraced the theme, from sharply tailored three-piece suits and flat caps to vintage-inspired dresses and cloche hats. It was a nod to the era’s structured, bold look, with a touch of contemporary flair that kept it fresh. making it a Nollywood all-star lineup whose fiery charisma drives the film, and bolaji Ogunmola, who brings depth to the unraveling mystery. they’re joined by the cast - bukola Adeeyo, bisola Aiyeola, Kamo State, Wunmi toriola, timini egbuson, Ope Ajayi, and KieKie, who doubles as the creative director, infusing the project with her signature flair. Adding a local spin, some guests wove traditional fabrics like asooke and adire into their outfits. the combination of heritage prints with peaky blinders silhouettes gave the looks a unique edge, showing creativity and respect for Nigerian textiles.
The air of doubt was thick. Social media buzzed with critics saying,‘She just wants to waste food and money,’as Hilda Baci pursued a colossal goal: preparing the largest-ever serving of Nigerianstyle jollof rice, which later paid off. For Baci, it was never simply about chasing a new Guinness World Record; it was a vision to create an experience, bring people together, and celebrate Nigerian flavours and innovation. The celebrated chef, who as a child aspired to be a lawyer, opens up to Omolabake Fasogbon, about the doubts, her advice to the next generation of chefs, and the spiritual mindset that fuels her mission to put Nigerian food on the global map. Excerpts:
You aspired to be a lawyer, now, a celebrated chef. What went wrong in between?
Becoming a lawyer sounded like the perfect dream for a Nigerian child back then. But as I grew, my true inspiration came from watching my mum run a buka. I often helped out and secretly wished to cook in a more glamorous way. What I never imagined was that this passion would one day become a full-time career and the very path that would
lead me to fulfilling my dreams.
The cookathon experience launched you into the spotlight, and now the jollof rice history in quick succession. What defined each experience for you? Both experiences were very different in what they demanded of me. The Cookathon was all about personal endurance — testing how much I could push myself and keep going. But the jollof rice record was a collective effort. It wasn’t something I could do alone; it needed teamwork, coordination, even engineer-
ing and precise calculations. While one tested my individual strength, the other showed the power of collaboration.
The jollof rice exploit earned you another GuinnessWorld Record for preparing the largest serving of Nigerian-style jollof rice. Quite historic. Did you set out intentionally to achieve this or it happened along the way?
A lot of people assume I set out deliberately to break another record, but honestly, it didn’t start that way. It wasn’t like I sat down thinking, ‘Oh, it’s been two years, I need to do this
again.’ Although, I had been toying with the idea of cooking the biggest pot of jollof rice for a while, an idea which came partly from watching those massive cooking projects in India. That was sometimes in 2023, not in a profound moment I can clearly recall, but it stuck and kept marinating. So during a conversation with the Marketing Director of Gino Foods, Oreoluwa Atinmo, about how to mark World Jollof Day 2025, I casually shared the idea, which she immediately embraced, and that’s really how it all started. For me, it was never just about chasing another Guinness World Record. It was about creating an experience, bringing people together, celebrating our flavours, and showcasing innovation in Nigerian cuisine. The record just happened to be the outcome of that vision.
Cooking a jollof rice weighing 8,780 kilograms was quite massive.Were there any doubts from any corner that made you think twice about continuing?
When I first announced it, of course, there were doubts. Social media was buzzing with comments like: ‘‘She just wants to waste food and money,’’ ‘‘How will 250 bags of rice even come out right?’’ But honestly, those comments never got to me. I would just share them with Oriola in Gino, and we both laughed, them saying, ‘God is going to surprise them.’ And that became our mindset. But what really kept me grounded was the people around me. My family, friends, and management team are incredibly supportive. Even when I come up with the wildest ideas, they don’t discourage me; instead, they say, ‘Okay, how can we make it happen?’ That same spirit was what made the partnership with Gino so special. They’re passionate about innovation and showcasing our local flavours, so when I shared the idea, it wasn’t about whether it was possible — it was immediately about how to make it work. So while the outside noise was full of doubt, within my circle, it was nothing but encouragement and solutions.
So how did you handle the logistics from sourcing the ingredients to cooking at that scale?
Honestly, it all came down to teamwork. I was surrounded by an incredible group of people who made the impossible feel achievable. Partnering with Gino was a huge advantage because they provided most of the key ingredients, which took a big load off the sourcing process. On the ground, I had my head of procurement, Lola, ensuring that everything we needed was in place, and my culinary director, Chef Gibbs, also known as Captain Gibbs, who coordinated the entire kitchen team flawlessly. My management team was very hands-on, and even my PA went above and beyond. Behind the scenes, our PR partner- Blanche Aigle, and Production partners G.O.D Studios, Tosin Obembe, and Chase Media, amongst others, ensured everything ran smoothly. At its peak, we had nearly 200 people working together, each playing a vital role. So, beyond setting the record, it was really about collective effort. Every single hand contributed to making it a success.
You seem so obsessed with the Gino brand. Are you saying that this project would not have been a success without them?
(Smiles softly) Well, we have had it done with their partnership
So why did you go for Jollof Rice of all meals?
I see jollof rice as more than just food but as a cultural element. Just like our music is proudly exported around the world, jollof rice carries that same power. It’s part of our identity as Nigerians. You could meet someone abroad who knows nothing about Nigeria, but the moment you mention jollof rice, especially Nigerian jollof, there’s this instant recognition. That’s why it felt like the perfect dish to showcase.
I followed the exercise closely, and at one point, the largest pot gave way. What went through your mind during
that period?
Honestly, for a few seconds, I was scared. My first thought was, ‘Oh God, after all this?’ It even felt like the devil was trying to creep into my mind with doubt. But almost immediately, I felt the Holy Spirit reminding me to stay focused on the solution. So instead of panicking, I shifted my energy to, ‘Okay, what’s next? Let’s keep moving.’ That mindset carried us through.
What moment during the cooking stood out as your greatest challenge?
This was definitely when the rice was going into the pot. Up until then, it was easy to say, ‘I’m cooking 200 bags of rice,’ but the reality didn’t hit me until I actually saw it being poured into the pot. That was the make-or-break point; this was truly the biggest pot of jollof rice ever cooked.
It took enormous human strength, and I’m grateful to all the chefs and my culinary director who stood by me. Everyone was already exhausted from hours of stirring, but I encouraged them: ‘Let’s give it one last push so the rice comes out perfect.’ Without their collective effort and energy, it wouldn’t have been possible. That moment really tested us, but we kept going, and we pulled through together.
Who and what kept you going during the Jollof Cookout’s challenging moments?
What really kept me going was the massive support I felt around me. I honestly thought people would leave once it got tough or dragged late into the night, but they stayed till the very last minute. Even when I passed out briefly and woke up, they were still there, cheering me on. That kind of love and commitment was overwhelming; I never expected it, and I’m still in awe of it till today.
Beyond that, my brother’s words kept ringing in my head. At one point, when I was exhausted, he told me, “Just keep going until it becomes physically impossible to keep going.” That gave me the perspective that as long as I can still move, think, and try, it means God isn’t done with me yet. And that mindset,
combined with the people who stood by me, carried me on.
Many doubted the process and feared disqualification, but you got the record after all. How did you feel when it was officially confirmed?
It felt like answered prayers, so gratifying and exciting. Honestly, I still haven’t fully settled into the reality that what was once just a dream has actually happened. The moment I heard the official confirmation, it was like finally exhaling after holding my breath for so long.
So what becomes of the historic jollof pot? Oh! That pot! It’s now more than just a pot. It’s a symbol of history, faith, and innovation. Some are suggesting we sell or auction it but we’re definitely not doing that. The plan is to preserve it in its original form so that years from now, people can still see it and remember the record-breaking jollof rice moment. We may have it in a museum, on display somewhere public, or even as a landmark you might pass on your way to work.
Nigerians really salivated for the jollof rice; unfortunately, it couldn’t reach everyone. So who got served and how was it shared?
We prepared over 10,000 packs at the Eko Hotels venue itself. Beyond that, about 3,600 packs were distributed to the Makoko community, and another batch went to Gbagada, where the pot was first fabricated and where we had our dry run. We also put out a call for people to come and get food, and that served another 4,000 people or so. Altogether, it was our way of making sure the experience went beyond just the event and reached different communities.
What was the first meal you had after cooking, and how do you usually unwind outside the kitchen?
Right after I turned off the stove, the very first thing I did was pray and celebrate with my mum. Then my sister made me Cow tail and plantain. Outside the kitchen, I unwind in different ways. I’ve recently taken up skating, which I really enjoy. I also read- mostly African authors because their stories feel relatable, though I read on and off. And of course, I love spending time with friends, my partner, and family.
What genre of novels do you enjoy reading?
I’m not really into romance, but I enjoy a touch of tragedy and occasionally, thriller.
What are your pet peeves?
I really can’t stand dishonesty, arrogance, or pride. I also dislike chaos; it makes me very uncomfortable.
Can you walk us through your usual day of eating— what’s your favourite meal, do you also eat out, and how do you manage food fatigue from constant tasting?
This varies. Some days I eat like a lion and other days I barely eat at all. As someone who cooks often, you can easily lose excitement for food because you’ve already inhaled the aroma and done plenty of tasting while cooking. That’s what creates the feeling of food fatigue. To balance it out, I mix things up. Sometimes I cook at home, other times I eat out or get a chef to prepare meals. As for the favourite, I’d say rice tops the list, but I also love Fufu with Afang soup.
What values have the cookathon and Jollof rice cooking record brought to your brand and person?
Both records have really elevated my profile. More people now recognize my name, and I’m taken more seriously when I talk about putting Nigerian food on the global map. It’s also been a huge boost for my business and personal brand, making it easier for people to see the value I bring and why I’m someone they’d want to collaborate with. Overall, it’s been a win-win on both personal and professional levels.
What is your advice to Nigerians striving to break barriers in their own path? For me, it doesn’t have to be a Guinness World Record—whatever area of your life you want to break through in, just keep pushing. Don’t get stuck on the discomfort or limitations of the moment. If you heard my full story, you’d probably say, ‘You went through all that?’ I always say your life can change in 24 hours, even in minutes. So keep going, because that breakthrough often comes when you least expect it.
What is your admonition to someone aspiring to break a record like you did? First, think deeply about it and pray about it. Ask yourself: what value will breaking this record bring to you and to society? For me, it was always about creating an experience that brought people together through food. Beyond the excitement, there were moments when it wasn’t fun anymore, but the shared goal kept us going. So, don’t just do it because it’s trending—ask yourself if this is something you’ll still be proud of five or ten years from now. That clarity will shape how you prepare, who you share your idea with, and the determination you’ll need to see it through.
What do you consider the biggest hurdles for young chef trying to build their careers in Nigeria today and the path forward?
Alot! But one that stands out is the lack of opportunities for young chefs. For a long time, the industry didn’t take chefs or food vendors seriously; the craft wasn’t valued. People often dismissed it as just putting a pot on fire, so they couldn’t understand why we should charge what our work is truly worth. Beyond the financial side, it’s also about respect and recognition for the profession. After all, we’re literally giving life by providing food. The good news however, is that things are beginning to change. With collective efforts and initiative like this, we’re rewriting the narrative and gradually earning the regard deserved.
After this record, what’s next for Hilda? Let’s leave that to God. But basically, my focus is on strengthening what I’ve already built—my restaurant, culinary classes, my family, and adding value to the brands I represent.
The Olujumu of Ijumu Kingdom, Kogi State, Oba Williams Olusegun Ayeni recently gave out his daughter Janet in marriage to Michael Okesanya. Two weeks after the engagement and traditional marriage at Multipurpose Hall, Iyah Gbede, Kogi State, Oba Ayeni with his wife Serah and brother Obas were at the RCCG Tabernacle of David, Ajah Lagos to witness the holy matrimony of Serah and Michael Okesanya. Guests were feted at the church hall.
Nume ekeghe
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) this week took a decisive, though carefully measured, step towards recalibrating its monetary stance.
After 15 months of aggressive tightening aimed at taming runaway inflation and stabilising the naira, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted to cut the benchmark interest rate by 50 basis points to 27 per cent.
The move, while modest, carries significant symbolic weight. It signals the Bank’s growing conviction that inflationary pressures are decisively easing, the foreign exchange market has regained stability, and the economy can now absorb policies more supportive of growth.
Governor Olayemi Cardoso, who has presided over a challenging but transformational phase in Nigeria’s monetary policy history, justified the easing on the back of five consecutive months of disinflation. Headline inflation moderated to 20.12 per cent in August, down from 21.88 per cent in July, with both food and core components recording steady declines.
The CBN attributed this trend to a cocktail of factors: earlier rate hikes, exchange rate stability following FX reforms, improved capital inflows, and better domestic crude oil production.
“The Committee’s decision to lower the monetary policy rate was predicated on the sustained disinflation recorded in the past five months, projections of declining inflation for the rest of 2025 and the need to support economic recovery efforts. The MPC also adjusted the Standing Facilities corridor to improve the efficiency of the interbank market and strengthen monetary policy transmission.
“The Committee further introduced a 75 per cent CRR on non-TSA public sector deposits for enhanced liquidity management, Cardoso said.
The Committee’s decision to cut the monetary policy rate rested on five consecutive months of disinflation, a firm outlook for further moderation in price pressures through the rest of 2025, and the imperative of boosting economic recovery.
True to his word and consistent with his upright stance, Cardoso had on numerous occasions stated that once inflation showed clear signs of tapering, he would begin to ease monetary conditions. Yesterday’s move underscores that pledge. In tandem, the MPC adjusted the Standing Facilities corridor to improve the efficiency of the interbank market and sharpen monetary policy transmission.
To reinforce liquidity management, the Committee also introduced a 75 per cent Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) on non-TSA public sector deposits.
He added: “The MPC expressed satisfaction with the prevailing macroeconomic stability, evidenced by the improvements in several indicators. These include the sustained disinflation, improved output growth, stable exchange rate and robust external reserves.
“It particularly noted the increased momentum of disinflation in August 2025, being the highest in the past five months. This deceleration, underpinned by monetary policy tightening, exchange rate stability, increased capital inflows, and surplus current account balance, have helped to broadly anchor inflation expectations.
“Other factors that contributed to the deceleration include the continued moderation in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and the notable increase in crude oil production. In the view of the Committee, the stability in the macroeconomic environment offered some headroom for monetary policy to support economic recovery.”
That said, the communique was quick to caution against complacency. The MPC acknowledged a persistent build-up of excess liquidity in the banking system, driven largely by fiscal injections from improved government revenues.
To counter this, it introduced a punitive 75 per cent CRR on non-
TSA public sector deposits, while adjusting the CRR for commercial banks to 45 per cent. The liquidity ratio was left unchanged at 30 per cent.
The widening of the Standing Facilities corridor to +250/-250 basis points is another important signal.
By loosening the corridor, the CBN aims to revive interbank market activity and strengthen the transmission of monetary policy into the broader economy. Weak transmission has long been a structural flaw in Nigeria’s financial system, where policy intentions often fail to translate into meaningful changes in credit conditions.
Cardoso further stated: “Notwithstanding the consistent deceleration in inflation, the Committee observed the persistent build-up of excess liquidity in the banking system, resulting largely from fiscal releases emerging from improved revenues.
“Being mindful of the need to preserve the prevailing macroeconomic stability, the MPC noted the risk posed by excess liquidity in the banking system.”
The Chief Executive Officer Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Muda Yusuf commenting on excess liquidty, said: “The decision to impose a 75 percent CRR on non-TSA public sector deposits is a prudent measure to prevent excessive fiscal-driven liquidity injections from destabilizing the financial system.”
The CBN’s shift aligns with a broader recalibration in global monetary policy. Central banks in advanced economies, notably the US Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank, have recently slowed or paused their tightening cycles as inflation moderates. The Bank of Canada and even the Bank of England have adopted more dovish tones, while countries like Brazil and Chile have already begun cutting rates.
In emerging markets, the logic is similar: having frontloaded rate hikes to anchor expectations, policymakers are now cautiously shifting toward supporting growth.
For Nigeria, the case is particularly compelling. Unlike advanced economies, where inflation has largely been supply-driven, Nigeria’s inflation mix has been heavily influenced by exchange rate passthrough and energy prices. With reforms in those sectors beginning to take hold, the MPC judged that the time was ripe to ease slightly.
Cardoso added: “Global inflation is projected to sustain its deceleration, albeit at a slower pace, due to the impact of trade tariffs and other structural challenges.
“This trajectory has necessitated a cautious and data-dependent approach to monetary policy easing by central banks, especially in emerging markets and developing economies.”
The rate cut also comes against the backdrop of significant structural reforms in Nigeria’s financial system. The ongoing bank recapitalisation exercise has seen 14 institutions fully meet new capital thresholds ahead of the March 2026 deadline. The MPC noted that this has strengthened financial soundness indicators, bolstered risk management, and enhanced resilience against shocks.
The termination of forbearance on single obligors, though initially controversial, has promoted greater transparency and discipline in credit allocation. Analysts argue this is crucial in positioning the sector for long-term stability.
Meanwhile, FX reforms continue to yield dividends. By dismantling multiple exchange rate windows and enforcing greater transparency, the CBN has attracted higher portfolio inflows, restored confidence among foreign investors, and eased speculative pressures on the naira.
Combined with rising crude production, these reforms have helped replenish reserves and provide the policy space to consider easing.
He added: “On the financial sector, the MPC noted the continued resilience of the banking system, with most of the financial sound-
ness indicators remaining within their respective prudential benchmarks.
“Members also acknowledged the significant progress in the ongoing bank recapitalisation exercise, as 14 banks have fully met the new capital requirement. They therefore urged the Bank to continue the implementation of policies and initiatives that would ensure the successful completion of the ongoing recapitalisation exercise.
“The Committee further noted the successful termination of forbearance measures and waivers on single obligors, which has helped to promote transparency, risk management and long-term financial stability in the banking system.
“The MPC reassured the public that the impact of the removal of forbearance is transitory and does not pose any threat to the soundness and stability of the banking system.”
For small and medium enterprises (SMEs), access to affordable credit remains a major hurdle. Yet, the symbolism of the cut matters. It signals to markets, investors, and businesses that Nigeria has turned a corner from the instability of the past two years. It also aligns monetary policy with the federal government’s broader growth ambitions, particularly its goal of building a $1 trillion economy by 2030.
Yusuf stated: “The MPC’s decision represents a strategic and well-timed policy shift from a phase of stabilisation to a phase of growth accelerator. If sustained and complemented by appropriate fiscal and structural reforms, these measures will stimulate economic growth and job creation, improve private sector performance and output, boost government revenues through an expanded tax base, and moderate inflation sustainably in the medium to long term.
“The CPPE regards this as a step in the right direction toward building a more resilient, inclusive, and growth-oriented Nigerian economy.”
• Says sector can rival, surpass oil as major revenue source for Nigeria • Experts say country positioned to become Africa’s leading destination
As the world marks International Tourism Day today, the federal government has restated Nigeria’s tourism potential, saying it was positioning the sector as a game-changer for economic growth, targeting over N7.2 trillion contribution to its Gross Domestic Product(GDP) while creating more than 2.5 million jobs by the end of 2025.
Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, who disclosed this to THISDAY, said tourism, given its added advantage of inexhaustibility, has the potential to rival and even surpass oil as a revenue source for Nigeria.
This year, the World Travel and Tourism Council projects that global travel and tourism would contribute approximately $11.7 trillion to the global economy, representing about 10.3 per cent of the world’s gross domestic product (GDP).
This sector, it said, as a significant employer, would support around 371 million jobs worldwide.
Africa recorded a 12 per cent increase in tourism between January-June 2025 compared to the same period last year, the United Nations half year report on global tourism revealed recently.
Speaking further, Musawa, who said Nigeria could learn from the success of countries like Morocco, Kenya, and South Africa by developing diverse tourism products, identified multifaceted challenges such as lack of focused investment, inadequate and outdated infrastructure and security concerns, inconsistent policies, limited funding, economic instability like market fluctuations, environmental damage and negative perception of the country changing consumer behaviours as limitations to the transformation of these tourism potentials into actual realities.
According to the minister, “Tourism holds immense economic potential as a powerful catalyst for job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and infrastructure development, especially in emerging economies.
Nigeria’s tourism sector has huge economic potential and its projections, suggesting it could contribute over N7.2 trillion to the GDP and create more than 2.5 million jobs by the end of 2025 if properly harnessed.
“The sector stimulates demand across multiple sectors, including hospitality, transportation, retail, and cultural industries, thereby driving broad-based economic growth. Moreover, tourism’s ability to generate inclusive growth makes it a vital tool for poverty alleviation and economic diversification, positioning it as a key pillar for long-term sustainable development.
“While Nigeria possesses vast cultural and natural assets, multifaceted challenges such as lack of focused investment, inadequate and outdated infrastructure and security concerns, inconsistent policies, limited funding, economic instability like market fluctuations, environmental damage, and negative perception of the country, changing consumer behaviors currently limit the transformation of these tourism potentials into actual realities.
“These factors, which impact revenue, operations, and consumer confidence, can be addressed, but it requires substantial government support, investment in sustainable practices and digital transformation, and improved collaboration between public and private sectors.
“These factors hinder the development of a competitive tourism sector in Nigeria. Addressing negative international perceptions of Nigeria as an unsafe environment is crucial for attracting more tourists and investors.
“Tourism is one of the largest employers of labour and is projected to create one out of every 10 jobs globally; more than the oil industry, and if properly developed and managed has the capacity to significantly contribute to foreign exchange earnings, which is vital for Nigeria’s economic stability,” Musawa said.
observation, is that scientists have detected some fragments escaping from the surface of Mars. Some of them are, therewith, speculating that the fragments NASA is detecting may well mean that the planet is slowly disintegrating into space, for as yet unclear reasons. But enough of that for now and back to the coming special eclipse.
It is because the Moon’s shadow is expected to go toward the equator, that is the midline dividing the earth into approximately two equal parts, that will make this phenomenon even longer. The shadow is expected to start in the Strait of Gibraltar, move across southern Spain, North Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. It will then finally disappearing over the Indian Ocean. In Spain, cities like Cádiz and Málaga will experience some four minutes of darkness, while places like Tangier and Tetuan in Morrocco will be completely dark. Luxor, Egypt, is expected to experience more than six minutes of the eclipse.
But, long before the aforementioned cosmic event of 2027, in fact before I decided to write about it, NASA had issued a “Galactic Visitor Alert”, saying that an Unknown Object is entering our Solar System. The object in question is travelling at the incredible speed of 245,000 km/h. It is said not to be behaving like anything that scientists and astronomers have seen, or studied, before.
Also, it does not follow the normal course and behaviour of regular heavenly bodies, or even comets. It does not seem to follow the gravitational rules that scientists expect of it because of its size. It is also, possibly, the third-largest space interstellar object ever spotted by humans. It has been christened A11pl3Z, and is estimated to be between ten and twenty kilometers wide; and it does not show the typical features of a comet, like a visible coma or tail.
It is not gently orbiting the Sun,
but is streaking through space in a straight line. It is faster than known asteroids and such previous interstellar visitors like ʻOumuamua (2017) and 2I/Borisov (2019). It will come closest to the Earth in December, but there is no danger of it hitting us here – at least in principle.
Either way, A11pl3Z reminds us just how much of our universe is still unknown. It is a universe filled with cosmic visitors, and some, like this one, arrive like speeding bullets—surprising us, puzzling us, and challenging everything we thought we knew. For instance, no one can say where it is A11pl3Z is coming from. The only sure thing is that it does not possess any of the attributes associated with the Great Comet spoken of in the several predictions and prophesies of seers in connection with End Times.
Still on matters arising from outer space, the spacecraft that was sent into space by NASA to explore our solar system, and the wider cosmos, some 50 years ago is now sending something from the edge of interstellar space that is altogether confounding to scientists and astronomers. This is a distance of over 25 billion kilometers from the earth. This spacecraft is sending hidden pictures of the universe, using plasma waves, magnetic fields, and the structures that shape the galaxy itself. It is literally rewriting our understanding, or lack of understanding, of the universe and leaving us with a Deep Space we would otherwise not have known.
Which brings us to the observation made on this page exactly nine months ago, on January 21: “… there are ongoing events in outer space that would give far greater cause for worry, if only more people knew about them”. This was in an article titled “Cosmic Events Amidst Mundane Pressures”. Four months earlier it was also pointed out in this column that “The planets Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune, Uranus, and Mercury
the past five months. He expressed satisfaction with the prevailing macroeconomic stability, evidenced by the improvements in several indicators, including the sustained disinflation, improved output growth, stable exchange rate, and robust external reserves.
However, economic growth and policy shifts, while encouraging, are only fragments of a bigger puzzle as they do not automatically translate into improved living standards, as I stated in a recent intervention, in which I cited Kate Raworth’s book - ‘Doughnut Economics – Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st Century Economist.’ Indeed, without affordable credit and structural reforms, households and enterprises will continue to struggle. Food inflation has remained high at over 20 per cent, placing enormous strain on households and eroding disposable incomes. Macroeconomic stability will only have meaning when Nigerians experience tangible relief through lower food and living costs. Raworth argues that beyond statistics, focus should shift from aggregate output to human well-being to create economies that prioritise social justice, reduce inequality, and operate within the ecological limits of the planet.
According to the author, “For over 70 years, economics has been fixated
will all be “lined up” in the Elliptic, in a way that they have not done for a long time now”.
The article continued: “What is the buildup about? Why after the January 21 large alignment of Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Venus, and Saturn? Is there any special significance, scientific or otherwise, attached to these planetary alignments? What this planetary alignment overload for 2025?
The piece in question observed as follows: “The alignment of several planets is believed to amplify the energies of these planets, prompting changes, introspection, opportunity, and transformation across the globe and across all zodiac signs”. So, what does the coming cosmic spectacle portend?
Since rare planetary alignments have often been historically linked with significant energy shifts, with implications for people’s emotions, political and social transformations, changes in the physical environment, upheavals in nature, new twists in relationships and possible global changes, what is the 2025 alignments priming us for?
The following four paragraphs also stand out in the earlier interventions on this matter: “Because we are all very busy grubbing in mud and sand, like worms, unwilling or unable to raise our heads and think or see more clearly, we may be facing grave dangers from intergalactic radiation that we are totally unaware. And these dangers may just be lurking or prancing all over the place, and in ways, that we are not capable of fathoming.
Since we are living in a world, universe and cosmic environment that has long since been scientifically confirmed to be nothing more than a network of interconnected radiations, it is time we stopped taking our physicality more seriously. Truth is: We cannot really say for sure what the effects of new heavenly bodies on
earth and its magnetic field might be. If we are to take astrologers and seers seriously and consider interplanetary alignments to be moments of amplified energy in our cosmic environment, then we must go further with them and say that these alignments are also often linked with transformations, innovations, and heightened intuitive insights and much more. If January 2025 will bring intense shifts, then with Venus and Mars playing key roles, as the planet of love, and the planet of passion, respectively – setting the stage for self-revelations of various sorts across all spheres.
It is a matter of record that significant interplanetary alignments had coincided in the past with some major global or cultural shifts, including scientific breakthroughs and artistic renaissances; such that they are often seen as heralds of change. But what time of change are we talking about here?
We live in a universe that is a largely understated ecosystem. All indices point to the fact that we no longer live in a normal world. With new, and strange, celestial visitors tumbling in by the dozens in recent times, there is much to think, and probably worry, about. World events are tending more towards chaos than rationality.
The direct connection between the increasing events in our immediate cosmic environment and the confusion and turmoil in human affairs all over the world today has been part of ancient and even more recent predictions. And it is getting worse on all fronts.
So, before the coming eclipse of 2027, in addition to other less visible cosmic events before then, let no one tell himself that a reprieve is on the way. Look at Trump’s America, tariff wars, Climate Change issues, unending wars and emerging flashpoints of increasing global violence. Just look around you and, if you have the means and inclination, look at “the skies”.
on GDP, or national output, as itS primary measure of progress. That fixation has been used to justify extreme inequalities of income and wealth, coupled with unprecedented destruction of the living world.
“For the 21st century, a far bigger goal is needed: Meeting the human rights of every person within the means of our life-giving planet.”
A doughnut approach, which Raworth proposes, puts human capital at the front and centre of everything.
“We evidently want something more than growth, but our politicians cannot find the words, and economists have long declined to supply them. So, it's time to cry and to laugh, but, most of all, it’s time to talk again of what matters,” she adds.
Raworth further argues that sustainable economics means meeting everyone’s essential needs such as food, water, housing, healthcare, and political voice, without breaching ecological boundaries like climate stability and biodiversity loss. She also stresses that growth in low - income countries must be "significant" to reach social thresholds, but tempered to avoid environmental collapse.
Nigeria’s situation underscores that GDP alone is inadequate as a measure of progress and should not be the guiding policy north
star. For Nigeria to truly ignite economic activity, it must move beyond headline statistics and embrace deeper, structural reforms.
It has been repeatedly reported that nearly 133 million Nigerians remain multi-dimensionally poor, roughly 63 percent of the population. By GDP per capita, which represents the average economic output or income per person in the country, and is often used to gauge the standard of living, Nigeria ranks 146th out of 191 countries. Additionally, Nigeria has one of the lowest life expectancies in Africa, particularly due to high infant and maternal mortality and poor access to healthcare.
Nice GDP numbers have also not translated into universal access to primary healthcare or a reduction in preventable deaths. Despite population growth, educational outcomes remain weak. The World Bank reports Nigeria’s human capital index among the lowest globally: children born in 2020 are expected to reach only 36 percent of their full potential productively without better access to education and health services. Without complementary reforms, sexy GDP numbers risk looking impressive on the surface but lacking meaningful impact. For policymakers and Nigeria’s economic managers, this means crafting policies that
simultaneously target ensuring sufficient access to education, health, housing, livelihoods for all citizens, especially the several millions living in poverty, and the rising number of unemployed youths.
They must also expand national statistics to track social outcomes such as education attainment rates, life expectancy, poverty depth, ecological footprints, carbon emissions, water stress and use these indicators to assess national performance, alongside GDP.
Governance must become participatory. Policies around land, resource use, urban planning, health delivery, and education should involve local communities, civil society, and youth.
A larger GDP should be seen as necessary but not sufficient. Policymakers must look beyond the statistical uplift and redirect fiscal savings to social sectors, deliver jobs beyond subsistence, formalise the informal economy, green infrastructure, measure what matters, and expand participatory governance.
Only then can Nigeria’s economic story break free from GDP’s narrow confines and become a narrative of true human and ecological flourishing. Nigeria’s path forward, therefore, lies not just in GDP numbers but in the statistics and policies that translate to better lives.
Jones Ike
Abians are witnessing a historic moment. After years of disappointment, frustration, and dashed expectations, the people of Abia State can now proudly proclaim that a “New Abia” is no longer a dream — it is a reality.
Abians, who take pride in the unique fact that their state is the only one whose name appears in the Bible, now count themselves blessed to have found a leader who truly walks his talk. After 24 years of mixed and often disappointing governance, the current administration under Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, has brought a refreshing wave of hope and change.
If anyone still doubts this, a simple look at the activities of the opposition platform ‘Ndi Abia’ tells the story. This platform, set up by a handful of discredited treasury looters longing for the “good old days” of reckless spending, has become a symbol of the past Abia.
Each time they attempt to spread lies and blackmail against Otti’s administration, they are met with overwhelming backlash — not just from Abians, but from Nigerians at large. The people are no longer interested in returning to the days when public funds were treated as private spoils.
Governor Otti has been delivering on his mandate with consistency and determination. Like a marathon runner, he started strong on May 29, 2023, and has only continued to gather momentum, running faster with each passing day.
The term “New Abia” has come to symbolize more than just infrastructure or policy — it represents a cultural, ethical, and institutional rebirth. It marks the transition from
a dilapidated, mismanaged state into a modern, progressive one.
The New Abia means: Order, cleanliness, and efficiency. Discipline and swift service delivery.
Jobs given based on merit rather than political godfatherism. Respect for rules, due process, and financial accountability.
Otti’s work ethic is rubbing off on the entire public sector. The culture of absenteeism and truancy that once plagued the civil service is steadily giving way to hard work and dedication. Public offices are being renovated and retrofitted, creating comfortable and efficient workspaces.
Through initiatives like the Abia Leadership Academy, young Abians
are being molded into future leaders who will uphold the values of integrity, discipline, and service. These young men and women are expected to train others, creating a chain of value transmission that will strengthen Abia’s future for generations to come.
Physically, the New Abia is visible everywhere — in the clean streets, the new road networks, the rebuilt Port Harcourt Road, the six-lane Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard, the New Secretariat Complex, Omenuko Bridge, Abia Medical City, remodeled markets, and even in the thoughtfully designed bus stops across the state. Salaries are paid promptly every 28th of the month, restoring dignity to workers and their families.
Rural communities are also feeling the
transformation through new road projects and renovated health centres. This development is not confined to urban areas — it is widespread and inclusive.
Perhaps most inspiring is the overwhelming support the Governor enjoys from Abians. From street corners to media platforms, the love and solidarity for Dr. Otti and his party, the Labour Party, are palpable. The people of Abia are united in their resolve to bury the old order and embrace the building of a just, progressive, and prosperous society.
The New Abia is real. It is no longer a slogan — it is a living, breathing reality, touching every sector, every community, and every heart. Governor Otti is laying a foundation on solid rock, and the future of Abia looks brighter than ever before.
Kayode Oluyemo
From the earliest whisper that Engr. Kayode Ojo would not contest, through claims he could not obtain the nomination form, accusations he could not submit it, and threats of disqualification, a wave of political sabotage followed him.
Each claim was a strategic attempt by his adversaries to suppress his ambition. But in the crucible of party politics, Ojo refused to fold. He has now been screened and cleared, steadfastly awaiting the primary election. His victory over every false narrative signals not just resilience but inevitability.
At the outset, the propaganda machinery insisted that Ojo would not contest. Such narratives are common in internal party warfare, where the aim is to weaken morale and confuse supporters. But while spin was deployed, the ground reality was different. Party stakeholders across grassroots and local government levels were already coalescing around him. His visibility and influence in every ward made talk of withdrawal hollow.
Once the claim of withdrawal faded, the next assault was procedural sabotage, that he could not obtain the nomination form. The aim was clear, to deny him entry into the race. But Ojo moved decisively. He obtained and submitted his form, declaring that Ekiti needs a rescuer, and that he was ready to answer that call. He beat the narrative through action. While detractors tried to block access behind curtains, he frontally walked into the secretariat, backed by supporters, and acquired the necessary credentials.
Having secured the form, opposition forces shifted tactics again. They claimed he would not be
able to secure the required number of nominators, and so, he would be prevented from submitting the form through procedural obstacles, delays, and intimidation. But once more, Ojo proved them wrong. He submitted the form at the APC national secretariat in Abuja without incident. His resolve turned the boast of obstruction into an empty threat.
When the weak tactics failed, the campaign turned to insinuations of disqualification. Over 200 petitions were prepared and filed by the governor’s camp, all aimed against Ojo’s candidacy. The petitioners accused him of non-compliance, invalid nominators, missing signatures, and failure to satisfy requirements.
In some quarters, as earlier stated, the narrative was pushed that Ojo lacked nominators from the wards and local governments in Ekiti State. These petitions were meant to scare him off, bog him down in legal challenges, and force withdrawal or disqualification. But he engaged as usual. His team responded to every petition with documented proof, legal counterarguments, and adherence to party guidelines. The screening committee considered the petitions, probed the claims, and cleared him.
When he stood before the screening panel in Abuja, Ojo did not stand on shaky grounds. He entered with his papers, responses to petitions, and the moral weight of stakeholder support. The committee, made up of respected party chieftains, acknowledged that not a single petition held water. After deliberation, he was cleared.
The same obstacles intended to stop him instead highlighted his sagacity, competence, and legitimacy. The false narratives became footnotes. After screening, he declared
that they were just raising dust where there was no dust, adding that the committee recognised he was a senior party man, a core party man, and an unrepentant loyalist of the President. He remained calm, confident, and rooted in legitimacy.
The resilience of Kayode Ojo is not accidental; it is deeply tied to his determination to change the story of Ekiti for good as contained in his manifesto. He is an engineer, and engineers build. His life and career have been about solving problems, creating structures, and producing results that endure. That same vision drives his politics. He is not running merely to occupy an office like Governor Biodun Oyebanji, he is running to build prosperity in Ekiti, brick by brick, policy by policy, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, and in the same manner he has built a reputation of integrity in private and public life.
What makes his struggle stand out even more is his principled approach. Unlike others who cut corners or weaponise petitions against rivals, Ojo stood firmly against such practices. He did not file a single petition against the governor, despite overwhelming evidence of anti-party activities that could have been used against him. He remarked openly that the governor himself was the one who should be petitioned for serial breaches of party loyalty and misgovernance. Yet, he chose not to reduce the contest to petition games, preferring instead to defeat the governor fairly on the field. This posture revealed not just discipline but a deep commitment to fairness, rule of law, and the ethics of politics.
His journey, far from random, reveals a pattern of underlying strength. His grassroots reach remains unmatched, with support from wards and local governments
across the state. The lies and attacks only amplified his profile, creating sympathy and momentum. His mastery of procedure, his ability to counter petitions with credible documents, and his recognition by the screening committee all cemented his credibility. Post-screening, he spoke with authority, confident of victory, and positioned as the anti-establishment candidate who defied the governor’s machinery. His resilience has reshaped the political calculus, showing him as the candidate with momentum, support, and
legitimacy.
Now that Ojo has been screened and cleared, all eyes turn to the primary. His critics, exposed in their falsehoods, carry the burden of failed malice. His supporters see in him the victory of fidelity over coercion. Given the variables at play, his ascendancy seems less aspirational and more factual. The political class will watch, but history is already bending toward Ojo. He stepped through fire and emerged undimmed. The battlefield now is the primary stage, and he is ready.
Oluyemo is a member of the Kayode Ojo Campaign Organisation
She may not have made the podium at the Ballon d’Or on Monday night in Paris for theTrophée Yachine Award for the Women’s Best Goalkeeper of theYear, but the fact that the Super Falcons safehand,Chiamaka Nnadozie was voted the fourth best in the world,making her the firstAfrican goalkeeper-manorwomantoreachthatlevel,isanattestationtoherrisingprofile
It was a gathering of who is who in the football world for the annual Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, and among the circle of stars was two-time African Footballer of the Year, Chiamaka Nnadozie, who was in the French capital not to add to the numbers but to be celebrated as she was voted the fourth world best goalkeeperthe first by any African goaltender-man or woman.
Little wonder her country’s highest football body-Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, and her English club were quick to issue statement of praise for her accomplishment.
“We heartily congratulate Chiamaka Nnadozie on her fourth-place finish in the race. It is a commendable feat given the calibre of goalkeepers she was up against. Finishing fourth is a big achievement and we believe in her capacity to win this trophy very soon,” NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi said.
Nnadozie finished fourth behind England and Chelsea FC’s Hannah Hampton who took home the Trophée Yachine, Gotham FC’s Ann-Katrin Berger and Barcelona FC’s Cata Coll. She however finished above Arsenal FC’s Daphne van Domselaar in the Top Five.
Brighton & Hove Albion head coach, Dario Vidosic expressed his delight at having two of his players, Chiamaka Nnadozie and Agyemang, recognised at the prestigious awards ceremony.
Nnadozie was nominated for the category of the Yachine Trophy in the Ballon d’Or presentation.
She kept four clean sheets in six matches as the Super Falcons clinched their 10th WAFCON title.
Her stellar performances earned her the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award and also finished fourth in the Yachine Trophy rankings.
“As a club, squad, and everyone affiliated with the women’s programme at Brighton, we are all really proud of them,” he said, as reported on the club’s official website.
“It’s a fantastic achievement to be recognised for one of the most prestigious awards in the footballing world.
“They both had a tremendous summer, lifting continental trophies after winning the Euros and WAFCON. It just showcases how important they were to the success of both their national teams,” he continued.
“I’m sure when they were growing up and playing football in the back garden, they were probably dreaming of these moments.
“For them both to fulfil that with their nomination is incredible. They should both be proud of their nomination for this evening,” the 38-year-old concluded.
While Nnadozie is still relishing her fourth place finish in the first ever Ballon d’Or global ranking for the Women’s Yashin Trophy, that did not stop her from hailing a Nigerian legend she watched while growing up.
The 24-year-old Nnadozie on Mon -
day night made history as the first ever African shot-stopper to be ranked in the top-five bracket of either male or female ratings for the annual global award, as her stock continues rising rapidly just two years after breaking into Nigeria’s senior squad.
The Falcons’ keeper, who previously starred for Rivers Angels of Port Harcourt and Paris FC of France, emerged ahead of Netherlands’ ace, Daphne van Domselaar, who finished in fifth spot.
However, while accolades roll out in her favour, the girl from Orlu in Imo State vowed that she won’t forget an icon who reigned before her, as she gained so much inspiration from watching Precious Dede in goal and was happy with the opportunity she got playing under the legend, who is now a trainer in the national team.
Nnadozie revealed, “Precious Dede has been a role model unto me right from day one. I grew up watching her play. I was impressed by her super saves and her super moves. She’s a legend that never gives up. She’s this legend that’s always fighting till the end. I grew up watching her and learning from her. Up till today, I’m still learning from her.”
Nnadozie went on to reveal the depth of awe that she has for Dede and recalled how she cherished working under the most capped Nigerian ‘keeper, who had a total of 99 national team appearances in the green-and-white jersey before retiring in March 2016.
Nnadozie continued her eulogies, saying: “I’m so happy that I’ve come
to know her in person, and I know she’s a courageous woman. She’s a brave woman. She’s so smart, and yet she’s humble to the core. I’m so happy to know her in person and to work with her in the national teams.
“During the U20 days, she was my coach, and I enjoyed working with her.”
Nnadozie concluded by revealing other forms of motivation she gets from Dede. “She always encouraged me and other goalkeepers. Sometimes, she even gives us gloves personally … just to encourage us. She’s also a person who carries everybody along,” Nnadozie concluded.
Nnadozie, who has been Africa’s Best Goalkeeper for the past two years, was also named Goalkeeper of the Tournament for this summer’s Women Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco, where she played a key role in Nigeria’s 10th triumph.
Her profile was massively boosted after the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
In that tournament, Nnadozie produced one of the most memorable performances in Nigeria’s famous 3–2 victory over hosts Australia.
Finishing fourth in the Yashin Trophy is a huge moment for Nnadozie and for African women’s football.
At just 24 and with goalkeeper known for their longevity, it would come as no surprise if in the nearest future Nnadozie is primed for the the Yashin Trophy.
• Set for Mamelodi Sundowns showdown
Nigerian champions, Remo Stars sealed their place in the second round of the CAF Champions League yesterday after completingacomprehensive5-0 aggregate victory over Comoros side US Zilimadjou.
The Sky Blue Stars had effectively wrapped up the tie with a commanding 4-0 win in the first leg last week at the MKO Abiola Sports Stadium, Abeokuta.
They returned to the same venue for the return fixture and finished the job in style, securing a 1-0 victory courtesy of Alex Oyowah’s late penalty.
The decisive moment arrived
five minutes from time when Ibrahim Abubakar’s cross was handled inside the box, allowing Oyowah to step up and send the goalkeeper the wrong way.
It was a significant milestone for Remo Stars, who had suffered heartbreak at the same stage last season after being edged out 3-2 on aggregate by Moroccan giantsAS FAR Rabat.
For head coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, this progress represents evidence of a team growing in confidence and ambition.
That ambition will now be put to its sternest test yet. Remo Stars’ reward is a blockbuster
clash against SouthAfrican heavyweights Mamelodi Sundowns. It is a tie that rekindles the ever-intensifying football rivalry between Nigeria and SouthAfrica. Nigeria vs South Africa rivalry renewed
In recent years, contests between the two nations have rarely been straightforward.
Nigeria needed penalties to see off Bafana Bafana in the semi-finals of last year’sAFCON, before being held to consecutive 1-1 draws in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
At youth level, South Africa shocked Nigeria’s Flying Eagles at the semifinals of the U20 AFCON earlier this year.
Taiwo Awoniyi was not eligible to feature in Nottingham Forest’s Europa League opener against Real Betis on Wednesday, but the Super Eagles striker was still on the plane to Seville as part ofAnge Postecoglou’s travelling party.
Responding to a question from a BBC reporter, Postecoglou explained yesterday’s press conference that Awoniyi, was included on the trip for reasons that extend beyond the pitch.
Postecoglou has emphasized the importance of ensuring that evenplayersnotdirectlyinvolved,
including Awoniyi, remain integrated into the squad to help build team spirit.
The 2013 Fifa U17 World Cup winner has endured a frustrating period at the City Ground. Declared surplus to requirements during the summer, a transfer away from the club failed to materialise, leaving him on the fringes of the first team. His involvement in the Premier League squad only came about following a long-term injury to fellow Nigeria international Ola ;, who was subsequently withdrawn from Forest’s Europa League list.
Despite his current situation, Awoniyi’s presence in Spain was viewed as a vital step in maintaining his connection with the group.
Trips of this nature, particularly high-intensity European fixtures against top opponents, provide opportunities for players to strengthen bonds off the pitch.
Postecoglou highlighted that exposingeverymemberofthesquad to such experiences can accelerate the building of camaraderie, belief, and unity within a side still finding its rhythm after significant summer changes.
Two Nigerian talents, Iyowoicho Onoja and Samson Mashebinu, will return to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after being selected for the next phase of the NBA Academy Showcase.
The event will take place on September 27, bringing top international prospects from Africa, Australia, France, and the U.S. to compete in a first-of-its-kind elite event in Abu Dhabi.
The NBAAcademy Showcase is bringing four elite youth academies from around the world – NBA Academy Africa
(Senegal), Centre of Excellence (Australia), INSEP (France) and IMG Academy Ascender Elite (U.S.) – to compete in a three-day tournament at NYU Abu Dhabi. The teams feature some of the best future NBA prospects from around the world who are competing in a series of exhibition games in front of NCAA coaches and NBA scouts.
Nigeria is represented by two prospects in the NBA Academy Africa team, namely Mashebinu, who played for WAFU B U17:
runners-up Petro de Luanda at this year’s Basketball Africa League (BAL) as part of the BAL Elevate program, and Onoja.
Other players in the mix are Pape Moussa Diallo (Senegal), Ivanovich Alang Zoa and Joachim Tounkara, both from Cameroon, Dramane Tounkara, Mahamadou Landoure, and N’Dji Ibourahima Coulibaly from Mali, Aly Kaba (Guinea), Almoustapha Hama Ide (Senegal, Mohamed Niane (Niger), and Matong Muorwel (South Sudan.
Ahead of today’s clash between Golden Eaglets of Nigeria and Baby Stallions of Burkina Faso at the on- going WAFU B U17 Championship in Yamoussoukro, Cote d’ Ivoire, Head Coach Manu Garba says he is optimistic that the five- time world champions will post another favourable outing.
The Garba-tutored Eaglets were in terrific form in scoring four goals within 35 minutes into the game to rout the Baby Cheetahs of Benin Republic 4-1 on Wednesday, and the highly experienced gaffter has said that
his team, just like every other team in the tournament, wants to win every match.
“Every team wants to win every match in a competitive tournament, and so does Nigeria. We want to try as much as possible to win every match in this competition and by winning every match, we will be championsoftheWAFU-Bagain because that is where my team belongs,” Garba said during yesterday’s press conference, ahead of the game today.
“We are here to play every match according to the laws of
thegame,butmostimportantly,wewant to try as much as possible to win the match against Burkina Faso,” he added. He praised the efforts of his young players against Benin Republic, noting that none of the players was in the last editionofthetournamentinGhana.“My boys did very well against the Benin Republic. I did say that, that was their first international game. Most of these boys have never entered an airplane before coming to Ghana here. This is a new team. None of these boys featured the last time we played in the WAFU B U17 Championship in Ghana.
Ademola Lookman’s turbulent summer looks set for a fresh twist as Atalanta are preparing to open contract renewal talks with the Nigeria international, Soccernet.ng reports.
After spending the summer pushing for a move, the Super Eagles forward is now reportedly close to being rewarded with a new contract.
The new contract offer will include an improved salary and a clause to smooth any potential transfer down the line.
Ademola Lookman, 27, has become the symbol ofAtalanta’s rise in Europe. His unforgettable hattrick in the 2024 Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen transformed him from a talented winger into a household name across Italy. It also sealed his status as one of the most decisive players the club has ever had.
The winger was linked heavily with Inter Milan and several Premier League clubs during the last transfer window. But with no
The Premier League enters its sixth week with another round of important fixtures, all of which will be broadcast live on SuperSport Premier League (GOtv Ch. 65, DStv Ch. 203).
Manchester United will open proceedings today at 12:30 pm with a trip to Brentford. United earned a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Chelsea last weekend, their second win of the season, with both teams finishing with 10 men. They now chase successive wins against a Brentford side that has managed just one
Leading financial institution, Moniepoint yesterday at their head office on Victoria Island, unveiled the maiden edition of Moneiball football 5-A-Side for universities in Nigeria.
As a pilot edition, eight schools which are University of Ilorin, University of Uyo, Abia State University, University of Calabar, Adekunle Ajasin University, University of Ibadan, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Federal University and Federal University, Oye Ekiti, would be competiting in a round robin games.
According to the organisers, the top two universities from the two groupswouldprogresstothefinal.
According to Head of Brand, AnastaciaIgbokidi;Monieball5-ASide Competition is Moniepoint’s own contribution to the development of sports in Nigeria.
“We want to take football as our key platform, and so we’re starting out. We started with the partnership with Victor Osimen, because he inspires a lot of young
move materialising, Lookman returned to action for Atalanta in their 3-0 win at Torino last weekend, coming off the bench late in the game.
His current deal runs until 2027, but Atalanta are keen to lock in his commitment by adding both financial incentives and a future exit option, an attempt to balance player ambition with club stability.
Since arriving in Bergamo, Lookman has been consistently prolific. He has 52 goals and 25 assists in 119 appearances, with 20 of those goals coming last season alone. Few players in Serie A can match his direct threat in the final third.
Head coach Ivan Juric, preparing for Saturday’s heavyweight clash against Juventus, confirmed the Nigerian is close to full fitness after a delayed start to the season.
“He’s training well, and slowly, we will try to get him back to full strength,” Juric said in his pre-match press conference.
Juric admitted frustration at Atalanta’s opening-day draw
victory all season.
At 3:00 pm, Liverpool take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
Arne Slot’s men have five wins from five, including a gritty 2-1 triumph over Everton last time out, and will look to maintain their perfect run.
At the same time, Chelsea host Brighton. The Blues will aim to bounce back after their defeat to United, while Brighton also search for improvement, following a 2-2 draw with Tottenham.
Theactioncontinuesat8:00pm as Tottenham take on Wolves.
Nigerians. He inspires with his story.And then we’re coming with the our own five- aside tournament. We also have something that will be unveiling in a few days,” Anastacia said.
She indeed said, Osimhen would have loved to be present during the kickoff of the competition which is slated for October 8, at UNILORIN but for the European football season, which is just starting.
“Currently the European
against Pisa but pointed to recent progress.
“I’m frustrated with the points we dropped against Pisa, because we could have won. Since then, the team has unlocked in attack, and we want to continue like this.” Juventus, however, present a formidable test. Juric praised Igor Tudor’s squad depth and singled out Kenan Yildiz, who has been one of Serie A’s early standouts this season.
“He’s always made the difference. For me, he’s a complete player and we will have to do our best to try and contain him,” Juric said.
On Juventus’ attacking depth, he added:
“They have Conceicao, Zhegrova, Yildiz and also three very good strikers. They have speed, technique and a lot of different solutions. We will havetobereadyinboththedefensive and attacking phases.”
As he gets hisAtalanta career back on track, Lookman will aim to get back to top form ahead of Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifiers in October.
On Sunday, Aston Villa host Fulham at 2:00 pm. Villa are still searching for their first win of the campaign after three draws and two losses, while Fulham arrive buoyed by consecutive victories, includinga3-1defeatofBrentford. Later at 4:30 pm, Newcastle welcome Arsenal to St James’ Park in the standout match of the weekend. The Gunners shared the spoils with Manchester City in a tense 1-1 draw last time out, while Newcastle continue to struggle for consistency with just one victory all season.
football season is still very much, but we’re working on something. We’re currently at the beginning of European football season, although, as we know, in the last match, Osimhen was injured, but thank God he’s back in training. He’s very, very excited about this competition. He asked us if there’s a way we could postpone the kickoff date so that he could be present, but it has to be concluded before the examination which is fast approaching.
As is our custom on this column from time to time, we shall venture int the domain of science, this time we shall look at recent news and events about Outer Space and their possible implications for life on earth generally. So, the 2027 in the article is not about the “political” 2027.
As I write, it is acknowledged in all the right scientific circles that the world should expect one of the longest total solar eclipses ever on the second day of August, 2027. This unique and historic eclipse is expected to last more than 6 minutes, making it one of the longest and most impressive in history.
For some readers, we say that
an eclipse has occurred when the moon passes in front of the Sun and temporarily blocks out is light, or part of it, from us. It is partial
when only part of the sun’s light is blocked, and total when all of the sun is blocked – also temporarily. From records, most eclipses tend last for barely two to three minutes.
But the coming solar eclipse of 2027 is expected to last for six minutes and twenty-three seconds. And that is because of a rare cosmic coincidence; wherein the Earth is farthest from the Sun (aphelion). This distance makes the Sun to look a little smaller in the sky. Because the Moon itself will, at the same time, be at closer to Earth than at other times (perigee), it will appear larger than usual.
Besides being the longest ever recorded eclipse in modern times, the 2027 solar eclipse is probably made all the more significant by the fact that such a long eclipse will not be
seen again until 2114. That is exactly 89 years from now.
The other news items of interest, and probably concern, for us here today are the following news items from the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The first is the fact that the Sun is about to become more active, after more than twenty years. The implication of this is that we should expect an increase in solar flares and solar storms that could affect Earth. Let us leave the scientific jargon and just say that increased activity on the surface of the Sun affects life on earth in various ways.
The second matter, which is more about a passing, but significant,
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Recent economic data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), as well as the decisions reached at this week’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), offer a glimmer of hope.
While on Monday, the NBS released the second quarter (Q2) 2025 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) numbers, which showed output growth, the MPC’s cut in the benchmark interest, the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), signaled its commencement of monetary easing.
The NBS report showed that Nigeria's economy expanded yearon-year in the second quarter, its quickest pace in about four years.
in Q2 2025, compared to 3.13 per cent in Q1, and 3.48 per cent in Q2 2024. The non-oil sector’s contribution was, however, lower than the 96.03 per cent recorded in the preceding quarter, as well as 96.49 per cent in Q2 2024.
According to the GDP Q2 report, in nominal terms, aggregate GDP at basic price stood at N100.73 trillion, compared to N84.48 trillion in Q2 2024, indicating a year-on-year nominal growth of 19.23 per cent. Real GDP stood at N51.20 trillion. The NBS explained that following the rebasing of GDP using 2019 as the base year, previous quarterly GDP estimates were benchmarked to the rebased annual estimates to align the old series with the new rebased estimates.
On the other hand, the MPC at its meeting kick-started monetary easing with a cut in the MPR by 50 basis points to 27 percent, from the 27.50 percent it was previously, citing sustained disinflation and stronger GDP growth. In addition, the MPC also adjusted the standing facilities corridor around the MPR to +250/250 basis points from +500/-100 basis points to boost interbank market transactions and enhance the stability of the market.
CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, said the committee’s decision to lower the monetary policy rate was predicated on the sustained disinflation recorded in
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