• To invest additional $46bn in refining, cement, fertiliser businesses to accelerate industrialisation

• Conglomerate moves to strengthen energy security, deepen continent’s industrial integration

Peter Uzoho

The Dangote Group has outlined its long term expansion strategy, which will increase its total refining capacity in Africa to 2.1 million barrels per day, comprising 1.4 million barrels per day in Nigeria and a planned 700,000 barrels per day refining complex in Kenya to serve East African markets.

This will be facilitated by the group’s planned investment of additional $46 billion between 2026 and 2028 across its refining, cement and fertiliser businesses as part of its drive to accelerate industrialisation across Africa

This comes as the national oil company of the Republic of the Congo, the Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC) and Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals have commenced discussions on a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening the Republic of the Congo’s supply of refined petroleum products while advancing regional energy cooperation and industrial integration across Africa.

Leading a Congolese delegation on a visit to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Lagos, SNPC Managing Director, Maixent Raoul Ominga, described the facility as a strategic asset for Africa and expressed the national oil company’s interest in developing a long-term partnership with Dangote.

“We have visited this remarkable refinery, which represents a major industrial achievement for Africa. The Republic of the Congo has refining capacity and we are keen to explore strategic cooperation that will help strengthen the supply of refined petroleum products while creating value for both organisations,” Ominga said, according to a statement by Dangote Group.

He said discussions between both organisations focused on opportunities for collaboration in refining, petroleum products supply, energy security, industrial development, and knowledge sharing.

Ominga praised the Dangote Group for demonstrating that Africa could successfully finance, build and operate world class industrial infrastructure, describing the refinery as an important milestone in the continent’s industrial transformation.

He also commended the Group’s investments in the Republic of the Congo, particularly in the cement sector, noting that they have strengthened local industrial capacity, expanded production and improved access to construction materials.

President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, reaffirmed the Group’s commitment to Africa’s industrialisation through value addition, regional partnerships and investment across the continent.

“We are for Africa, not just Nigeria. Tell us what you need, and we will see how we can work together,” Dangote said.

He noted that the refinery has established a new benchmark for fuel quality in Africa by producing petroleum products that meet the highest international specifications, while improving access to cleaner fuels and reducing the continent’s dependence on imported refined products from outside Africa.

During the visit, Group Vice President, Oil and Gas, Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin, outlined the Group’s long term expansion strategy, which will increase its total refining capacity to 2.1 million barrels per day, comprising 1.4 million barrels per day in Nigeria and a planned 700,000 barrels per day refining complex in Kenya to serve East African markets.

He also disclosed plans by the Group to invest additional US$46 billion between 2026 and 2028 across its refining, cement and fertiliser businesses as part of its drive to accelerate industrialisation across Africa.

The engagement underscores the shared commitment of SNPC and Dangote Industries to deepen African energy cooperation, strengthen regional value chains and promote greater self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products as the continent advances towards enhanced energy security and increased intra African trade.

Also present at the meeting were Group Executive Director, Commercial, Oil and Gas, Dangote Industries Limited, Fatima Aliko Dangote; Adviser to the President of the Republic of the Congo, Peggy Ndongo; and advisers to the SNPC Managing Director, Aymar Ebiou and Norbert Mabiala.

• Says it has received, vetted over 700 petitions in disputed primaries

• Declares current candidate line-up as absolute

• Party’s governors meet Yilwatda over 2027 polls

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), yesterday, said after reviewing the report of its appeal committee, which looked into the numerous petitions that trailed the party’s primary elections nationwide, the chances of several initial winners had ultimately been altered.

APC revealed that it received and vetted over 700 petitions from aggrieved members following the conclusion of the party’s primaries.

It said the review by the National Working Committee (NWC), following the recommendations of the appeal committee, produced mixed results, leading to outright structural corrections in certain areas.

As part of the peace building measures ahead of the 2027 general election, the umbrella body of APC governors, Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), has proposed a meeting with the party’s national chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.

APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, said in a telephone chat that rather than dismissing complaints from the primary elections, the leadership of the party painstakingly audited every grievance, in a move that ultimately altered the fates of several initial winners.

Morka stated, “For those aggrieved, we took our time to undertake a very thorough review of all the petitions that came after the primaries. There were over 700 petitions that were received and were properly vetted.

“Some were successful and some were not. Those successful led to some corrections in some constituencies. Those that were not successful meant that those earlier declared were retained.

“In a few cases, there were upsets based on the outcome of the petitions and decisions were made on them.”

With the petition window now closed, APC declared its current candidate line-up as absolute, indicating that the window for internal leadership flips is shut.

Morka stressed that the party’s primary objective was to ensure that all validly nominated standard-bearers successfully completed and returned their INEC Form EC9 (the candidate nomination affidavit).

He stated, “We have gone past that. So the people today who are filling the forms are those who emerged originally without challenge and those who emerged out of the appeal process. This is the final position of the review.

“The priority of the party now is to have all our candidates to fill and complete their INEC nomination form and upload same on INEC platform

“The people who were successful, I mean those who have emerged as the candidates of the party, are being provided with the relevant forms for documentation. They are to fill and return to the party for uploading to the INEC portal.

“The process is already underway, and candidates are actively interacting with the party leadership to ensure smooth transition into the INEC system.”

Morka added that releasing the list of the party’s candidates for the 2027 elections was not a priority now.

He explained, “Having a public release of the list is not our priority now. Though we shall share the list publicly, right now, the priority is to get those who are our candidates to get their forms filled and meet the INEC deadline. 

“This is more important to us than the public release of candidates’ list.”

Morka added, “Those who are our candidates, by now, have received their forms. They already know themselves. There is no tension about that.”

2027: APC Govs to Meet Yilwatda

Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), the umbrella body of governors elected on the platform of APC, said they had met with the national chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, in the continued effort to resolve intraparty issues ahead of the 2027 elections.

Chairman of PGF, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, while addressing journalists after the meeting, revealed that the governors reviewed the outcome of the party’s nationwide primaries, the party’s performance in the recent Ekiti State governorship election, and several bye-elections.

The meeting was attended by the governors of Ekiti, Zamfara, Taraba, Lagos, Sokoto, Kano, Kaduna, Gombe, Kebbi, Akwa Ibom, and Borno states, among others.

������Ƶ Checks revealed that the ruling party’s nationwide primaries held in May were characterised by controversy, irregular voting processes, allegations of imposition of candidates, and manipulation of delegate lists.

The lack of transparency and fairness in the primaries created uneasy calm in the ruling party. It was against this background that the APC national leadership refused to release the list of successful candidates following the completion of the primaries to prevent crisis in the party.

APC governors decided to review the process as part of troubleshooting efforts to reconcile aggrieved members.

Uzodimma stated that the forum resolved to engage the APC national leadership to harmonise strategies for the next phase of the party’s campaign and strengthen internal cohesion before the general election.

He stressed that beyond electoral preparations, the governors also deliberated on governance and the country’s democratic development, stressing their commitment to ensuring that Nigerians benefit more from APC administrations.

Uzodimma said, “The governors expressed satisfaction with the party’s electoral outings, describing the results as encouraging ahead of the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections.

“We reviewed the outcome of the primaries across the federation, the Ekiti governorship election and the various bye-elections where our party performed impressively,

“We have resolved to work towards solving the challenges facing our democratic space and ensuring that our people are better off.”

• Furious Trump turns to Congress for reprieve, blasts ‘dumb judges’  

•Judiciary blocks attempt to fire federal reserve gov, Lisa Cook

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

A divided Supreme Court yesterday upheld a broad conception of birthright citizenship, rejecting President Donald Trump’s executive order declaring that children born to people who are in the United States illegally or temporarily are not American citizens.

By a 6-3 vote, the court struck down Trump’s order. A bare majority of five justices, in an opinion written by Chief Justice John Roberts, held that the long-settled understanding of the 14th Amendment, adopted after the Civil War, makes a citizen of anyone born in the country, with very limited exceptions.

“Citizenship, then and now, was the right to have rights—to freely participate in our political community. The Framers of the Fourteenth Amendment extended that promise to ‘every free-born person in this land,’” Chief Justice Roberts wrote for the court, citing congressional debate over the amendment, “We keep that promise today,” he added.

A sixth justice, Brett Kavanaugh, disagreed about the constitutional ruling, but pointed to a federal law that he said broadly conveys birthright citizenship. Justices Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch and Clarence Thomas would have upheld Trump’s proposed restrictions.

“The Court today takes the extraordinary step of holding facially unconstitutional the President’s Order excluding from citizenship the children of foreign temporary visitors and illegal aliens,” Justice Clarence Thomas wrote in a 91-page dissent, more than three times as long as Roberts’ opinion.

“In doing so, the Court adds to the sad history of the Fourteenth Amendment, which was designed and understood to secure equal rights for the freed blacks but has instead been repurposed for political projects that the Reconstruction Congress did not support,”

The Republican president’s restrictions had been blocked by several lower courts and had not taken effect anywhere in the U.S, the Associated Press (AP) reported.

In his reaction, Trump said the decision was “too bad for our Country” and wrongly suggested that Congress could “easily” address it with legislation. The majority decision rests on constitutional grounds. It would take an amendment to overcome the decision, the report added.

During arguments in April, both conservative and liberal justices questioned the order’s legality in a momentous case that was magnified by Trump’s unprecedented attendance in the courtroom.

The case framed another test of Trump’s assertions of executive power that defy long-standing precedent for a court with a conservative majority and a robust view of presidential power that has largely ruled in his favor. In the notable exceptions when the court has not, Trump has responded with starkly personal criticisms of the justices.

The justices ruled on Trump’s appeal of a lower-court ruling from New Hampshire that struck down the citizenship restrictions. The birthright citizenship order, which Trump signed on the first day of his second term, is part of his administration’s broad immigration crackdown.

Birthright citizenship was the first Trump immigration-related policy to reach the court for a final ruling. The justices previously struck down global tariffs Trump had imposed under an emergency powers law that had never been used that way.

The president said the decision was “too bad”, but appeared undeterred in his quest to end birthright citizenship, turning his attention to Congress. Instead of trying to pass a constitutional amendment, Trump is pushing for lawmakers to create new legislation that establishes exceptions to birthright citizenship for children born to parents who do not have permanent legal status in the US.

 “Congress should start today to work on ending the expensive and unfair to our Country, Birthright Citizenship,” he wrote on Truth Social. But that will also be an uphill battle, as any legislation would need to overcome the 60-vote filibuster.

He also seemed to recognise the court was likely to rule against him on birthright citizenship, too, using his Truth Social platform to criticise “dumb judges and justices” and wealthy pregnant women from China and elsewhere who come to the U.S. to give birth so their newborns will have American citizenship.

Trump’s order would have upended widely held views that the 14th Amendment confers citizenship on everyone born in the U.S., excluding only the children of foreign diplomats and those born to a foreign occupying force.

The amendment was intended to ensure that Black people, including former slaves, had citizenship, though the Citizenship Clause is written more broadly. “All persons born or naturalised in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside,” it reads.

In a series of decisions, lower courts have struck down Trump’s executive order as illegal. The decisions have invoked the high court’s 1898 ruling in Wong Kim Ark, which held that the U.S.-born child of Chinese nationals was a citizen.

Roberts, joined by Justice Amy Coney Barrett and the three liberal justices, said the amendment’s language, the historical context and the 1898 case make clear that children born to parents illegally or temporarily in the U.S. “are citizens at birth.” But there was only a bare majority of five justices on the constitutional question.

Kavanaugh sided with the majority because of a federal law that makes those children citizens. But he joined the dissenters in finding that Trump’s order does not violate the Constitution. His view would enable a future Congress to change the law to restrict birthright citizenship.

The Trump administration had argued that the common view of citizenship is wrong, asserting that children of noncitizens are not “subject to the jurisdiction” of the United States and therefore are not entitled to citizenship.

More than one-quarter of a million babies born in the U.S. each year would have been affected by the executive order, according to research by the Migration Policy Institute and Pennsylvania State University’s Population Research Institute.

While Trump has largely focused on illegal immigration in his rhetoric and actions, the birthright citizenship restrictions also would have applied to people who are legally in the United States, including students and applicants for green cards, or permanent resident status.

Meanwhile, The US Supreme Court has blocked Trump’s attempt to fire a Governor of the US Central Bank, Lisa Cook, in a ruling seen as affirming the Federal Reserve’s independence.

In a 5-4 decision, justices from the country’s top court said the administration had not provided Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook sufficient “due process” for her to contest her removal.

The decision sends the matter back to lower courts, where the administration will have to prove its allegations that Cook has committed mortgage fraud if it wishes to proceed with the firing and where Cook would have a chance to challenge the accusation.

Cook has denied the allegations, which Fed defenders say are a pretext to allow Trump to assert more control over the bank. By law, a president can only remove governors of the Federal Reserve “for cause”.

That requirement was intended to shield the bank from political pressure and help ensure it sets policy to serve long-term economic goals, rather than short-term interests.

Arguing before the court in January, Cook’s lawyer, Paul Clement, said the administration’s handling of the firing would make Congress’ intended protection for the Fed “kind of a joke”.

Trump announced his plan to remove Cook from the Fed in August on social media, citing claims that she had filed mortgage forms claiming two different principal residences at the same time. Banks typically offer lower interest rates for primary homes.

Solicitor General John Sauer, who argued the case for the White House, told the court in January that the social media post provided sufficient notice and opportunity to respond.

He said the issue, even if inadvertent, amounted to “negligence” that could undermine confidence in the Fed and said the courts should defer to the president’s judgement when it comes to finding a cause.

Following the ruling, Cook said in a statement the case was “never about mortgage documents”. She called the allegations a “manufactured pretext” because she refused to bow to political pressure on interest rates.

She added that the central bank must make policy decisions guided by “independent judgement, free from political interference”.

While the Supreme Court’s Cook ruling shielded the Federal Reserve from immediate White House interference, it also delivered a different ruling on Monday weakening the independence of other federal regulators.

In a separate 6-3 decision written by Chief Justice John Roberts, the court ruled that the president can fire members of independent agencies at will, handing a major victory to the Trump administration.

The ruling leaves bodies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) far more vulnerable to shifts in administration priorities, effectively overturning a 90-year-old legal precedent known as Humphrey’s Executor.

• Group: he’s better when compared to you

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The presidential candidate of African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has called for the immediate suspension of Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, over allegations linking him to a N400 million bribery scandal.

Atiku also raised fresh concerns over the allocation of N27.4 billion to what he described as a “non-existent” government agency.

But a group, Arewa Youth Integrity Forum (AYIF), described Gbajabiamila as a man of integrity, whose public record shined brightly, in contrast to Atiku’s long trail of corruption controversies.

In a statement by Atiku Media Office, he urged Tinubu to demonstrate commitment to accountability by allowing an independent investigation into the allegations involving Gbajabiamila and ensuring that no public official was shielded from scrutiny.

Atiku was reacting to allegations made by one Adeniyi Adeyemi, a self-appointed Director General of Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), who accused the chief of staff of involvement in an alleged N400 million bribery scandal.

He stated that Gbajabiamila’s reported claim that PFIPC did not exist had only deepened public concerns rather than addressing them.

According to Atiku, the explanation raises a more troubling question about the integrity of the 2026 national budget.

“How can you allocate N27.4 billion in the budget to a government agency that doesn’t exist without leaving more questions than answers?” he asked.

The former vice president maintained that if the chief of staff’s position was correct, it would cast doubt on the credibility of the budget process. He stated that the alleged discrepancy could not be dismissed through weak and unconvincing explanations.

He said the controversy had gone beyond the bribery allegation, and stated that the reported allocation of N27.4 billion to an agency allegedly described as non-existent amounted to a serious issue of public accountability that deserved thorough investigation.

Atiku said the alleged budgetary irregularity should not be swept under the carpet, stressing that transparency and accountability remain the cornerstone of good governance.

He recommended the immediate suspension of Gbajabiamila to pave the way for an independent probe into what he described as a national scandal.

Atiku said, “Good governance is based on transparency and accountability and you can’t achieve that by protecting your family and friends. President Tinubu must lead by example by holding his Chief of Staff to the same standards of accountability as other public officials.

“N27 billion is not a joke. The rule of law must prevail in this issue. Let President Tinubu prove to Nigerians that he is sincerely committed to accountability in his administration.”

Gbajabiamila is a Saint Compared to Atiku’s Public Record, Group Tells Ex-VP

Arewa Youth Integrity Forum (AYIF) described Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, as a man of integrity.

In a statement by its National President, Alhaji Mohammed Aliyu, the group slammed Atiku’s alleged hypocrisy and political desperation ahead of 2027, saying they expose him as unfit to point fingers at anyone.

The statement said, “Gbajabiamila is a saint compared to the mountain of corruption cases that define Atiku Abubakar’s public life. While we support thorough investigation into any allegation, Atiku lacks the moral standing to lecture anyone on integrity.

“His call is nothing but political mischief aimed at distracting Nigerians from his own tainted history. The Arewa Youth Integrity Forum will not sit idly by while a serial controversy magnet pretends to be a crusader.”

AYIF highlighted Gbajabiamila’s contributions to legislative reform and executive efficiency, stating that his service has been marked by dedication rather than the self-enrichment schemes often linked to Atiku.

The group said unproven allegations against sitting officials should not be weaponised by opposition figures with far more damaging records.

• Describes him as an invaluable and dependable friend

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to veteran journalist, friend, and age-old ally in the progressive movement, Tunji Bello, as he clocks 65 on July 1.

Tinubu described the celebrant as an invaluable and dependable friend, and one of the most accomplished and tested top public servants of his generation in the Centre of Excellence.

In an 11-paragraph tribute issued on Tuesday, the president stated, “I rejoice with Tunji Bello, as my dependable friend, brother and long-standing ally in the progressive movement, attains 65 on July 1.

“Tunji and I were engaged in the progressive struggle for more than three decades.

“In Nigeria’s struggle for democracy through the 90s, the era of military dictatorship, to the present time of civil rule, only a few people truly compare to Tunji in terms of his unflinching fidelity to progressive ideals — whether as a fearless journalist with a moral conscience standing up to brutal military juntas, or as a stellar public servant committed to diligence and excellence.”

Tinube added, “As his sterling record clearly illustrates, first as editor of reputable national dailies, later as a Lagos State cabinet member, and most recently as the CEO of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, Tunji is a shining example of what is possible when competence meets creativity and character.

“In 2003, when we were confronted with the seemingly intractable challenge of waste management in Lagos State, I, as Governor, pulled him out of his editorial turf to join the Lagos cabinet to help drive the reforms we had outlined.”

He stressed, “True to his reputation, Tunji performed a miracle in a record time, so much so that successive governors found him indispensable and retained him either as Environment Commissioner to consolidate the gains in waste management in Africa’s most populous city or as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) to help enrich the broader governance framework with great ideas.

‘Tunji brings to the table a unique versatility rooted in diverse competencies spanning political science, law, administration, and strategic communication.”

The president said, “Without a doubt, Tunji is one of the most accomplished and tested top public servants of his generation in Lagos State.

“Tunji has always proved invaluable. When I assumed office as President and considered how to recalibrate consumer advocacy in line with our Renewed Hope Agenda, I could not think of a more appropriate and reliable person than Tunji.

“Again, true to his reputation, he has not disappointed. Many Nigerians will attest that he has made a great impact at the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission within two years of assuming leadership of this strategic public institution, tasked with ensuring fair play in the marketplace and protecting Nigerian consumers.

“I cannot thank Tunji enough for all he has done for our country and the progressive front. And so, as he turns 65, I pray that the Almighty Allah grant him many more years in good health with renewed strength to continue to serve our people and country.”

James Sowole in Abeokuta

Afenifere, a pan-Yoruba organisation, has commended Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Ogun State counterpart, Dapo Abiodun, for their decisive response to the menace of banditry and kidnapping in both states.

The organisation also lauded Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, as well as the Commissioners of Police in Ogun and Lagos states, Bode Ojajuni, and Tijani Olaiwola Fatai, respectively, for their coordinated efforts in tackling criminal activities along the Ogbere-Sagamu-Ore corridor.

In a letter, titled, “Afenifere Commends Security Chiefs and Governors for Decisive Action Against Banditry and Kidnapping on the Ogbere-Sagamu-Ore Road,” signed by its National Organising Secretary, Kole Omololu, the organisation praised the IGP for providing strategic leadership and intelligence-driven policing that had strengthened the fight against organised crime.

According to the group, the unwavering political commitment demonstrated by Sanwo-Olu and Abiodun has created an enabling environment for security agencies to effectively discharge their constitutional responsibilities.

The letter, written on behalf of Leader of Afenifere and Asiwaju of Yorubaland, Reuben Fasoranti, stated that the prompt and coordinated response of the security chiefs and governors had significantly restored confidence in public safety across the affected areas.

Afenifere stated that the successful operation underscored the importance of purposeful leadership, professional policing, and robust inter-state collaboration in combating violent crimes.

Afenifere particularly commended Ojajuni for his operational knowledge of the Ogbere-Sagamu-Ore axis, and applauded Fatai for deploying operational resources, specialised equipment, and logistics that contributed significantly to the success of the exercise.

Reaffirming its commitment to a secure South-west, Afenifere declared that the region would remain a hostile environment for kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements.

The letter stated, “The message is unequivocal: ‘Kò sí àyè’—there is no place for evil in Yorubaland. Those who seek to threaten the peace, security and prosperity of our people will continue to face the full weight of the law.

“The Yoruba people remain profoundly grateful for this exemplary display of courage, dedication and public service.”

• Says US retreat from international development chance for continent’s renewal 

•Decries wholesale export of raw materials from Africa 

•Wants governments to implement AfCFTA with greater urgency

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, yesterday declared that foreign development assistance can never bridge Africa’s estimated annual infrastructure financing gap of between $130 billion and $170 billion, arguing that the continent must fundamentally rethink its development model by prioritising domestic resource mobilisation, industrialisation and stronger institutions.

Speaking during a panel session at the Global Strategic Advisory Group (GSAG) meeting held at Villa La Collina, Lake Como, Italy, Saraki maintained that the ongoing withdrawal of the United States from international development assistance, though painful in the short term, should be viewed as an opportunity for Africa to redefine its relationship with development partners and pursue greater self-reliance.

Addressing the panel on: “Development Policies—Withdrawal of the U.S. from International Development: Opportunities and Challenges,” the former Kwara governor argued that the world was witnessing one of the most significant shifts in the global development architecture since the end of the Cold War.

According to him, the reduction in American development assistance, restructuring of USAID programmes and Washington’s increasing focus on domestic priorities represent more than a temporary adjustment, but a structural transformation that requires countries, particularly in Africa, to rethink the future of international development cooperation.

Saraki acknowledged that the humanitarian implications of the shift were substantial, citing projections that millions of additional HIV infections could occur if funding gaps remained unaddressed, while noting that developing countries were already facing significant financing shortfalls arising from recent cuts in American assistance.

He pointed out that health supply chains, emergency nutrition programmes and support for civil society organisations had already suffered disruptions following the withdrawal of funding.

However, Saraki argued that concentrating solely on replacing lost donor funding would amount to missing the larger opportunity presented by the changing global order.

Instead, he said Africa should seize the moment to build a development framework that is more sustainable, equitable and strategically aligned with the continent’s long-term interests.

According to him, Africa’s challenge is not merely to replace one source of dependence with another, but to fundamentally redefine development cooperation through genuine partnerships, stronger governance and investments in future generations.

“I have witnessed both the transformative impact that development cooperation can achieve and the structural limitations that have too often constrained its effectiveness. From that perspective, I believe the current moment should not be viewed as a threat to the development enterprise.

“Rather, it represents its greatest opportunity for renewal. My central argument today is simple: Africa must seize this moment not to replace one dependency with another, but to redefine development cooperation altogether,” he pointed out.

Tracing the roots of Africa’s persistent development challenges, Saraki said that more than six decades after political independence, many African economies still largely reflected colonial structures centred on the export of raw materials while importing expensive finished products.

He argued that donor priorities had often shaped Africa’s development agenda, sometimes at the expense of the continent’s actual needs.

Drawing from his experience as Senate President, Saraki recalled that efforts to subject foreign borrowing to greater legislative scrutiny often met stiff resistance because many governments viewed external loans as easy options without paying sufficient attention to repayment obligations and long-term developmental impact.

He further contended that many donor-supported programmes primarily created jobs and markets for donor countries instead of helping African economies build sustainable productive capacity.

The former governor of Kwara State identified what he described as three major structural weaknesses in the traditional development assistance model.

First, he noted that aid volumes had always been far below Africa’s actual financing requirements, stressing that while the continent’s annual infrastructure financing deficit stood between $130 billion and $170 billion, total official development assistance to Africa from all sources amounted to only about $34 billion in recent years.

He argued that development assistance was designed to complement domestic resource mobilisation and private investment, warning that treating aid as a substitute inevitably created dependency instead of development.

Secondly, Saraki criticised the short duration of most donor-funded projects, saying institution-building required decades of sustained investment rather than the typical three-to-five-year project cycles adopted by development agencies.

He maintained that building competent public institutions, effective judicial systems, accountable public finance structures and professional civil services could not be accomplished within such limited timelines.

Thirdly, he said the existing development architecture failed to dismantle trade arrangements that kept African economies trapped at the lowest end of global value chains.

Saraki lamented that although Africa accounted for more than 70 per cent of global cocoa production, it captured less than 5 per cent of the estimated $130 billion global chocolate market.

He also cited Nigeria’s position as a major producer of raw shea nuts while earning only a tiny fraction of the global shea products market, arguing that exporting raw commodities deprived African countries of jobs, technology transfer and higher value earnings.

According to him, Africa was losing more than $100 billion annually because of inadequate local value addition across key commodities. Despite the challenges, Saraki insisted that the current geopolitical environment offered Africa unprecedented leverage as competing global powers sought closer engagement with the continent.

He noted that China, Europe, Gulf countries, India, Turkey and Russia had all expanded their presence across Africa, providing the continent with greater room to negotiate mutually beneficial partnerships.

He, however, cautioned that such leverage would only be meaningful if African countries articulated a clear development vision instead of merely responding to offers from external partners. Saraki therefore called for an end to the wholesale export of Africa’s raw materials, insisting that industrialisation and local value addition should become central pillars of the continent’s economic strategy.

He argued that processing lithium, cocoa, bauxite, cotton, timber and other natural resources within Africa would generate significantly more employment, encourage technology transfer and increase export earnings than continuing the export of raw materials.

He also urged European countries to reform existing trade arrangements by opening their markets more fully to manufactured African products rather than maintaining systems that encouraged the export of unprocessed commodities.

On domestic reforms, Saraki stressed that stronger resource mobilisation remained essential for Africa’s economic sovereignty.

He observed that Sub-Saharan Africa’s average tax-to-GDP ratio remained far below that of advanced economies, while Nigeria’s ratio was among the lowest globally.

According to him, improving tax collection, strengthening fiscal accountability and enhancing legislative oversight were political decisions that required determined leadership.

He also called for greater mobilisation of African capital, pointing to rising diaspora remittances and the rapid growth of African financial institutions such as Afreximbank as evidence that African-led financing could play a much larger role in driving development.

The former senate president further emphasised that transparent institutions, credible electoral systems, independent judiciaries and accountable public financial management were indispensable foundations for sustainable economic growth.

He argued that weak institutions perpetuated corruption, discouraged investment and deepened dependence on external assistance.

Saraki equally identified Africa’s youthful population as one of its greatest competitive advantages, stressing that investments in education, digital skills, entrepreneurship and innovation would determine whether the continent’s demographic profile translated into economic prosperity or social instability.

Addressing Europe’s future engagement with Africa, Saraki said the continent should not simply attempt to replace the vacuum left by reduced American assistance. Instead, he advocated a new partnership model based on trade, investment, institutional development and long-term cooperation rather than traditional aid programmes.

He argued that Europe’s long-term security and economic interests would ultimately be better served by supporting a stable, prosperous and industrialised Africa. Saraki also challenged African governments to accelerate implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), noting that intra-African trade remained significantly below levels recorded in Europe.

He said faster implementation of the continental trade agreement, combined with investments in cross-border infrastructure and policy harmonisation, would unlock the full potential of Africa’s estimated $3.4 trillion single market.

Saraki urged African leaders to strengthen democratic institutions, deepen regional integration, mobilise domestic resources and embrace production-driven development rather than dependence on foreign assistance.

“The changing role of the United States in international development is undoubtedly significant. Yet beyond the immediate challenges lies a far greater opportunity—an opportunity for Africa to rethink development, for Europe to reimagine partnership, and for both to build a relationship founded not on dependency, but on mutual interests, shared prosperity, and common purpose.

“The question before us is not how quickly we replace what has been withdrawn. The question is whether we have the wisdom and determination to build something better in its place. Africa does not need new patrons; it needs genuine partners willing to invest in its institutions, industries, infrastructure, innovation, and people,” he argued.

Lagos State Government appealed for calm and understanding from residents following the massive flash flooding experienced in many parts of the state over the last two weeks.

In the aftermath of the floods, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved immediate dredging maintenance of 28 additional primary channels across the state.

Speaking against the backdrop of the heavy downpours that caused the flash flooding in many communities, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, said the rains were an extreme weather event that produced an unusually high volume of water within a short period.

Wahab said the situation had overwhelmed the drainage channels in some locations, resulting in temporary flooding across parts of Victoria Island, Lekki, Ikeja, Gbagada, Mushin, Mafoluku, and other areas.

The commissioner said the incident was not peculiar to Lagos, as similar heavy showers also affected other African countries, even in North America, on the same day, resulting in flooding across cities.

He stated that while Lagos and the other cities had coastal and hydraulic characteristics, Lagos presented a much more complex hydrological system due to its extensive network of lagoons, tidal water bodies, rivers and creeks, as well as significantly higher rainfall intensity.

He explained that the interaction between the Atlantic Ocean, Lagos Lagoon, and numerous rivers and creeks, particularly during periods of high tide, naturally slowed the discharge of storm water into the sea, resulting in temporary inundation in some low-lying areas whenever exceptionally heavy rainfall occurred.

Wahab, however, assured residents that the Lagos State government was fully on top of the situation through continuous monitoring of drainage infrastructure, flood-prone locations, and other critical water channels.

He added that emergency response agencies were on ground to ensure that floodwaters receded as quickly as weather conditions permitted, while providing support where necessary.

The commissioner stressed that while the state government continued to invest significantly in drainage construction, channelisation, desilting, and other flood control infrastructure, residents also had an important role to play in reducing the flooding.

• African airlines records 8.9% increase

Chinedu Eze

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released data for May 2026 global passenger demand indicating that total demand was down 2.2 percent compared to the same period last year.

But despite the global fall in passenger demand, African airlines saw an 8.9% year-on-year increase in demand, as capacity was up 8.3 percent year-on-year and the load factor was 73.4 percent (+0.4 ppt compared to May 2025).

The global body revealed that total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK) was down, adding that excluding the Middle East, demand grew by 0.7 percent in other parts of the world and the total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), decreased 2.3 percent year-on-year. The load factor was 83.5 percent (+0.1 ppt compared to May 2025), a record high for May.

The major cause for the fall was the crisis in the Middle East which disrupted both domestic and international flights.

 IATA also stated that international passenger demand fell by 1.6 percent compared to May 2025, but Excluding the Middle East, demand grew by 3.1 percent and capacity was down 2.4 percent year-on-year, and the load factor was 83.7 percent (+0.7 ppt compared to May 2025).

Domestic demand contrasted globally to 3.1 percent compared to May 2025. Capacity decreased 2.1 percent year-on-year. The load factor was 83 percent (-0.8 ppt compared to May 2025).

“Air passenger demand was down 2.2 percent year-on-year in May on the impact of war in the Middle East. The decline was cantered on carriers in the Middle East with a 28.4 percent year-on-year fall.

“That’s a significant improvement on the 46.6 percent decline recorded for April, a sign of the region’s resilience. Notably, we also saw year-on-year contractions in demand in both North America and Asia, largely related to domestic market conditions in the US and China.

 “Overall, May demand still appeared to be largely resilient in the face of high fuel prices and air fares. While the recent sharp drop in oil prices is an encouraging development, the challenges created by the war will likely persist for some time.

“Oil supply through the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain and it is likely to take time before the benefit of lower oil prices is reflected in ‘normalized’ jet fuel pricing. In the meantime, airlines who are operating on a two percent margin will have little choice but to continue testing demand resilience with higher fares that attempt to cover elevated fuel costs,” IATA’s Director General, Willie Walsh said.

 Reports indicate that the Middle East aviation market contributes approximately six percent to 10 percent of global international air travel.

The region accounts for about six percent of total worldwide scheduled passenger capacity, but its share of international traffic (Available Seat Kilometers) sits higher at roughly 10% because carriers operate larger aircraft on significantly longer routes

IATA stated that international RPK fell 1.6 percent, with capacity falling 2.4 percent.

The pace of decline reduced compared to April and many regions hit record load factors for May, with only the Middle East posting a load factor decline.

However, Asia-Pacific airlines achieved a 1.3 percent year-on-year increase in demand, as capacity decreased 1.1 percent year-on-year, and the load factor was 85.3 percent (+2.0 ppt compared to May 2025). In Vietnam, tighter limits on jet fuel imports led to significant capacity cuts on short haul routes, resulting in a decline in intra-Asia international traffic during the month.

“European carriers saw a 3.8 percent year-on-year increase in demand as capacity increased 2.3 percent year-on-year, and the load factor was 85.4 percent (+1.2 ppt compared to May 2025). Of note is the 15 percent increase in direct traffic to Asia, reflecting a continued shift to direct services between the two regions.

“North American carriers increased demand one percent year-on-year. Capacity increased 0.6 percent year-on-year, and the load factor was 84 percent (+0.4 ppt compared to May 2025),” IATA stated.

But Middle Eastern carriers saw a 28.8 percent year-on-year decrease in demand, as capacity fell 24.3 percent year-on-year, and the load factor was 76.1 percent (-4.8 ppt compared to May 2025).

“The impacts of the Iran war continue to cause a highly negative year-on-year traffic comparison, but month-to-month the impact is lessening and the rate of decline was almost half that of April.”

• Candidate: APC is one big family, we’ll work as a team

The leadership of the Kwara State All Progressive Congress (APC) on Tuesday presented the party’s nomination form to its gubernatorial candidate and Speaker, Kwara House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Salihu Danladi.

Speaking during the presentation ceremony in Ilorin, Chairman of the party, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, said it was imperative for his executive organ to present the winner the nomination form to fill and submit to the INEC, following the ratification of his victory at the primaries by the APC National Headquarters.

“Before now, we have conducted the primaries. There have been winners for the House of Assembly, House of Representatives, the Senate and the governorship, but the national headquarters of our party said we should not announce,” he said.

“The National Working Committee of our party has gone through all the processes, especially those that have complaints. People who had complaints have ventilated their complaints to the Appeal Committee who have equally gone through them.

“So, NWC has come out with the candidates. And It is now our duty to give them the forms to fill so that they will be uploaded to the INEC portal. This is what we have done in the office.

“The one that we are unveiling here today is that of the gubernatorial candidate, who is Rt. Hon Yakubu Salihu Danladi. So, on behalf of the national chairman of our party, I am handing this form over to our candidate.”

The presentation attracted wild applause from party elders, stakeholders, lawmakers, cabinet members, and thousands of supporters.

Rt. Hon. Danladi, in his remarks, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the leadership of the party both at the national and state level for their support and trust to fly the flag of the party in the 2027 general elections.

He also thanked the co-contesters for their participation and promised his readiness to carry them along.

“We thank God Almighty, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the national chairman of our party. We also thank the leader of the party in the state, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the state executives and other major stakeholders of the party,” Danladi said.

“There are reconciliations going on already as is usual with party primaries. Sixteen of us who contested know that a winner must emerge and a winner has emerged and it is now left for us to carry everyone along and we will definitely do that.

“By His grace, APC is one family, and we are going to be more united and much stronger. We thank all Kwarans. We will not disappoint you and God Almighty will guide us.”

The brief event was attended by members of the state House of Assembly, cabinet members, party executives and elders, and women groups.

• Alausa inaugurates national laureate c’ttee, unveils N365m research prize 

•Initiative designed to elevate academic excellence

Emmanuel Addeh and Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The federal government yesterday announced plans to end the separation of Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) from Senior Secondary Schools (SSS) as part of sweeping reforms aimed at tackling Nigeria’s growing out-of-school children crisis, revealing that more than 20 million pupils who enrolled in primary schools failed to transition to senior secondary education.

Also, the federal government has inaugurated the Tertiary Institutions National Laureate Committee, a development education stakeholders have described as one of Nigeria’s most ambitious attempts to reposition scholarship, innovation and research as national priorities.

Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, spoke about government’s plan to restructure the JSS and SSS education system in Abuja while inaugurating the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Ministerial Implementation and Monitoring Committee.

Alausa said the current education structure, which separates junior and senior secondary schools, had failed to ensure a seamless transition for learners and had significantly contributed to the country’s high school dropout rate.

According to him, government data showed that while Nigeria has about 80,000 public primary schools, there are only about 15,000 junior secondary schools, creating a major gap in the transition from primary to secondary education.

“Where do the children go after primary school? We have 80,000 primary schools but only 15,000 junior secondary schools. Where are those students?” he asked.

He added that the policy had resulted in overcrowded junior secondary schools while many senior secondary schools remained underutilised.

“We have overflowing junior secondary schools and empty senior secondary schools. I can objectively report today that this disarticulation policy has failed. We will phase it out. We cannot continue creating administrative positions while damaging our education system. It is about doing what is best for every Nigerian child,” the minister said.

Alausa acknowledged that previous administrations had not adequately addressed the challenge but expressed confidence that the current government would reverse the trend.

“The previous governments may have failed in this regard, but this government will not fail. We are fixing this. We need to create more opportunities for children to move seamlessly through the education system,” he said.

He added that the proposal to abolish the policy would be presented at the next meeting of the National Council on Education for consideration and possible adoption.

Meanwhile, the federal government has inaugurated the Tertiary Institutions National Laureate Committee, a development education stakeholders have described as one of Nigeria’s most ambitious attempts to reposition scholarship, innovation and research as national priorities.

The Committee will set in motion a new annual award programme that will reward outstanding undergraduate, master’s and doctoral research with prizes valued at approximately N365 million.

The Committee was inaugurated by the  Minister of Education, Alausa, at the Digital Resource Centre of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and will oversee the implementation of the programme.

The initiative is a flagship designed to elevate academic excellence to the highest level of national recognition while promoting research commercialisation and innovation across Nigeria’s accredited post-secondary and tertiary institutions.

Speaking at the inauguration, Alausa said the programme represented a deliberate effort by the federal government to reshape the country’s reward system. According to him, it will place scholarly achievement, scientific discovery and innovation alongside other nationally celebrated accomplishments.

The minister said the initiative seeks to inspire a new generation of young Nigerians to pursue research capable of solving real-world problems, creating new industries and strengthening the nation’s global competitiveness.

“The future prosperity of nations will increasingly depend on their ability to convert knowledge into economic value,” the minister said. He noted that Nigeria must deliberately celebrate intellectual achievement if it hopes to build a globally competitive knowledge economy.

Alausa observed that in an era increasingly dominated by the social media-driven “attention economy”, the federal government considered it necessary to establish a national platform. The platform will reward creativity, scholarship, invention and commercially valuable research, particularly among young people.

The newly inaugurated Committee comprises the following members: Prof. Abubakar Sambo, President of the Nigerian Academy of Science, as Chairman; Prof. Solomon Nwhator of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife; Prof. Tolulope Ariyomo of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti as well as Prof. Francis Uba of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo.

Others are: Dr Babangida Abubakar Albaba, representing the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE); Dr Salihu Bakari Girei, representing TETFund; Prof. Carol Arinze-Umobi of Nnamdi Azikiwe University; Dr Obianuju Anigbogu, representing the Federal Ministry of Education and Mr. Francis Egbokare, representing the Nigerian Academy of Letters.

Also announced as members of the committee are: Dr Ezinne Orisakwe, representing the National Universities Commission (NUC); and Dr Pius Ekireghwo, representing the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE).

Mr Richard Falaye, Secretary of the Nigeria Education Repository and Databank (NERD), will serve as Secretary to the Committee.

The inaugural National Laureate Awards are scheduled for November 2026 and will recognise the country’s finest undergraduate dissertations, master’s theses and doctoral (PhD) theses, alongside six thematic excellence awards.

The thematic categories cover medicine and health sciences, engineering and technology, agriculture, law, arts and social sciences, and teaching innovation.

Under the approved prize structure, the winner of the undergraduate dissertation category will receive N35 million, while the best master’s thesis will attract N50 million. The overall winner in the Doctoral (PhD) category will receive N100 million.

In addition, six National Laureate Excellence Awards, each valued at N30 million, will be presented annually. This brings the programme’s total prize pool to approximately N365 million.

The minister also announced the establishment of the Dr Stella Adadevoh Excellence Award in Medicine and Medical Innovation. The award, one of the programme’s special awards, honours the late physician whose leadership during the 2014 Ebola outbreak helped prevent a national public health catastrophe.

He further directed the Committee to conclude its work on eligibility requirements, evaluation procedures and institutional engagement in good time. This, he said, is to ensure the successful hosting of the inaugural National Laureate Awards in November.

Besides, Alausa used the occasion to commend Olatunji Ariyomo, Chairman of the Nigeria Education Repository and Databank (NERD), for his innovative contributions towards transformative interventions within Nigeria’s education sector.

Responding on behalf of the Committee, its Chairman, Emeritus Professor Abubakar Sambo, described the initiative as a historic turning point in the nation’s education policy. He praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for placing academic excellence and research at the centre of national development.

Sambo pledged that the Committee would uphold the highest standards of transparency, fairness and merit throughout the selection process. He commended the minister for leading a national revolution to reward and promote innovation and its commercialisation.

He assured the minister that every eligible student, irrespective of institution or geographical location, would have an equal opportunity to attain National Laureate status. The process, he said, would be insulated from institutional favouritism and other extraneous considerations.

Wale Igbintade

A Lagos State Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja yesterday heard that an alleged fraudster, Ifoma Immanuel, and his company, Intermediate Investment Holdings Limited, failed to comply with the terms of an agreement reached with businessman Adebisi Adebutu and his company, R28 Holdings Limited, after receiving a $1.5 million investment.

The evidence was presented before Justice Mojisola Dada during the ongoing trial of Immanuel and his company, who are being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a two-count charge of obtaining money by false pretence and forgery involving the sum of $1.5 million.

The defendants were arraigned on March 11, 2026, and pleaded not guilty to the charges.

According to the EFCC, the defendants induced Adebutu and R28 Holdings Limited to invest $1.5 million by representing that the funds would finance projects involving Chappal Petroleum Development Company Limited, Intermediate Investment Holdings Limited and Chappal Energies Mauritius Limited.

The anti-graft agency alleged that the investment was secured with assurances that the funds would be reimbursed, a development capital fee of $2.25 million would be paid, and R28 Holdings Limited would receive a 22.41 per cent equity stake in Intermediate Investment Holdings Limited.

Testifying as the fourth prosecution witness (PW4), Sheriff Oluwo told the court that in 2022, Immanuel approached him to help source investors for what was presented as a foreign oil investment opportunity.

Led in evidence by the EFCC’s lead counsel, E. E. Iheanacho, SAN, the witness said he subsequently introduced Immanuel to Adebutu after informing the businessman about the proposed investment.

Oluwo testified that during a meeting at Adebutu’s residence, Immanuel requested a loan of $1.5 million to execute the proposed transaction.

According to the witness, Adebutu rejected the loan proposal, insisting instead that the investment should be structured as an equity participation to protect his interest in the event the transaction failed.

He said the parties eventually agreed on a shareholding arrangement under which Intermediate Investment Holdings Limited and Immanuel would jointly retain about 58 per cent equity, while R28 Holdings Limited would acquire approximately 22.41 per cent. Oluwo and Chikezie Evuluchukwu were each to hold 9.49 per cent equity.

The witness further stated that following the agreement, a term sheet documenting the arrangement was prepared by legal practitioner Olaniyi Osoniyi.

However, Oluwo told the court that despite receiving the investment funds, the defendants failed to fulfil their obligations under the agreement.

“The defendant did not fulfil his obligations under the agreement and has not refunded the $1.5 million paid by R28 Holdings Limited till today,” the witness told the court.

The EFCC alleged that the offence of obtaining by false pretence contravenes Sections 1(1)(a) and 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.

The Commission also accused the defendants of forgery, an offence alleged to be contrary to Section 363 and punishable under Section 365 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

After the testimony, Justice Dada adjourned the matter till July 2, 2026, for the inspection of documents and electronic devices tendered in the case.

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing the risk of flooding through its Disaster Risk Reduction strategy, following a review of the 2026 Annual Flood Outlook.

The Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar Abubakar, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja during a two-day Technical Workshop on the Riverine Household Flood Protection Pilot Exercise.

The initiative is a partnership between NEMA and PULA Advisors. It will see 100,000 households benefit from the pilot phase in Anambra, Benue, Kebbi, and Kogi states all listed among the high-risk and most vulnerable states.

“This initiative also reflects the federal government’s commitment to strengthening Disaster Risk Reduction and NEMA’s strategic plan 2026-2029 also put priorities on early warning and disaster risk financing.

“The 2026 Annual Flood Outlook again lists about 23 states at high risk of flooding, and the four pilot are in the list of high risk and most vulnerable.

“This reality further demands we move beyond responding to disaster after they occur. We must embrace innovative approaches that anticipate risk, reduce vulnerabilities, and provide timely financial protection for those most at risk,” Abubakar stated.

Speaking on behalf of PULA Advisors, Country Director, Dr. Mike Enahoro commended the initiative.

“We know the Nigerian government has been on the forefront in mitigating the effects of flood and flooding especially people who live in most vulnerable place. We are at PULA thought how we can partner the federal government, and through NEMA who have been ensuring that we become proactive rather than being reactionary.”

Appreciating NEMA’s leadership, Dr. Enahoro noted that “NEMA leadership has been talking with PULA Advisors in finding a lasting solution and reducing the impact on people vulnerable to floodings.”

Also speaking, the Anambra State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Benjamin Chucks, said the people of the state, who are among the worst hit by flood disasters, would welcome the development.

“Recall in 2022, over 4 million Nigerians were affected and out of which over 2.5 million persons were displaced. Sadly, our state was one of the worse hit. This development will go a long way of removing the financial burden from the state government. I believe, that we the people of Anambra state who are business oriented will embrace this initiative,” Dr. Chucks stated.

The workshop marks a significant step in the journey of the Riverine Households Flood Protection Pilot, which represents a bold and forward-looking initiative that leverages Disaster Risk Financing to strengthen resilience before disasters strike.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has lauded the arrival of the first batch of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses in the state, describing it as a major step towards transforming the state transportation system.

Governor Eno who spoke shortly after receiving and inspecting the buses said the 20 vehicles received were part of the 50 ordered by his administration to provide easier, safer, and more efficient transportation service across the 31 Local Government Areas of the state.

He commended the Ministry of Transport, the contractor, the military, and other stakeholders involved in the successful delivery of the buses, noting that the next phase is to complete the bus terminal facilities, install tracking devices, and introduce a modern ticketing system.

The governor said the initiative aligns with his administration’s commitment to making transportation “easy and simple” for Akwa Ibom people, adding that the state’s improved road network provides the needed foundation for the new transportation system.

Eno described the project as part of the gradual emergence of a new era of infrastructure delivery in the State, saying that the administration’s projects are entering a period of visible results.

He urged the people of the state to remain confident in government’s efforts, stressing that “meaningful development requires patience, planning, and consistent execution.”

The governor used the occasion to congratulate the Ministry of Transport and the people of the State for the milestone, describing the new transport intervention as a sign of a brighter future for the state.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Anthony Luke, commended the governor for his remarkable vision and the decision to turn-around the State transport sector.

Dr. Luke noted the arrival of buses is a testimony to the fact that the governor is very intentional and concerned about making life better for the people.

With the governor to receive the buses were the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; the Executive Assistant and Chief Delivery Advisory to the Governor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson; the Managing Director of Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation, AKICORP, Mr. Imo-Abasi Jacob; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Entrepreneurial Development, Mr. Ime Uwah, and other government officials.

• Commends CSLS for gains in ACJA, 2015 implementation 

•As Don tells Tinubu to restrict daily cash withdrawal to tackle kidnapping, banditry

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Former Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo,SAN, has stressed the need for effective collaboration with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), for effective implementation and sustenance of institutional reforms in the country.

Osinbajo stated this on Tuesday in Abuja, while speaking during the 20th anniversary celebration of the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS).

The celebration which marked an important milestone in the centre’s two decades journey of dedicated service to justice sector reform, promotion of human rights, and the strengthening of the rule of law in Nigeria, attracted critical stakeholders in the justice sector, including former and first female president of the Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa, former chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), Prof Bolaji Owasonoye, SAN, among others.

In a speech he delivered as chairman of the occasion, the former VP who was represented by his aide and former Lagos State, Attorney-General, Ade Ipaye, who argued that reforms must be sustained through continuous engagement and collaboration, pointed out that the CSLS has demonstrated this understanding and worked to ensure that reforms translate into meaningful outcomes for citizens.

According to him, the emergence of the Centre two decades ago coincided with a critical period in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

“At the time, the nation was grappling with profound challenges within the justice sector, including institutional weaknesses, delays in the administration of justice, inadequate accountability mechanisms, and growing concerns about public confidence in the rule of law.

“These challenges underscored the need for sustained engagement. There was a clear need for independent organisations that would provide thought leadership, promote reforms, support institutional development, and serve as a bridge between law, practise, and the public interest. It was against this backdrop that the Centre for Social Legal Studies was established”.

Appraising the past two decades of the CSLS, he stated that the centre has distinguished itself as one of Nigeria’s most respected voices in justice sector reform.

While acknowledging that notable gains have been achieved over the past 20 years, he said the challenges confronting the nation’s justice system continue to evolve, with issues such as access to justice, efficiency, public trust, respect for human rights, and institutional accountability remaining central to democratic consolidation and national development.

“Looking ahead, I encourage CSLS to remain steadfast in its commitment to excellence in innovation and public service. The next 20 years will undoubtedly present new challenges, but they will also offer opportunities to deepen reforms, harness emerging technologies, strengthen institutions, and build a justice system that is more responsive, efficient, and accessible to all.

“The Centre’s experience, credibility, and extensive network of partnerships uniquely position it to continue playing a leading role in this endeavour”, he said

Meanwhile, the President of the CSLS, Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George, SAN, has advised the federal government to introduce measures limiting the daily withdrawal of bank customers, in order to curtail the activities of criminals and worsening insecurity in the country.

The law professor lamented that kidnapping, abductions, banditry, terrorism and other violent crimes have become serious threats to national stability, economic development and collective well-being.

“Although governments at both the federal and state levels deserve commendation for the efforts they have made, much more remains to be done.

“Permit me, therefore, to respectfully propose a number of practical measures which, if implemented, could substantially strengthen our national response to insecurity.

“First, there is an urgent need to reduce the circulation of large volumes of cash within the economy. Reasonable limits on daily cash withdrawals, coupled with stricter enforcement of anti-money laundering regulations, would significantly constrain the ability of criminal organisations to collect ransom payments and finance illegal operations”, he said.

Akinseye-George added that financial institutions must be required to promptly report suspicious transactions and cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies.

Other measures he noted could drastically reduced criminality include; institutionalising an effective whistleblower programme specifically targeted at combating terrorism, banditry and kidnapping; comprehensive registration and revalidation of all vehicles, motorcycles and tricycles throughout the country; integration of vehicle registration databases into the National Identity Management System and verified telephone records.

While he advised that the government should make it mandatory for all filling stations in the country to install CCTV surveillance systems and prohibited from selling fuel to unregistered vehicles or motorcycles.

“Technology must also become a central pillar of our national security architecture. Government should invest substantially in drones, surveillance technologies and integrated electronic monitoring systems capable of detecting suspicious activities and enabling rapid deployment of security personnel.

 “Vulnerable public institutions—including schools, places of worship, markets and traditional institutions—should equally be equipped with modern electronic surveillance facilities linked to central monitoring centres.

“Beyond security operations, however, Nigeria must address the underlying socio-economic conditions that fuel criminality. Sustainable peace requires significant investment in education, youth empowerment, sports development and job creation. Every child should have access to quality basic education, while sporting and vocational programmes should be revitalised to provide constructive opportunities for our young people.

“Community participation must equally be strengthened. Community Development Associations and village organisations should be empowered to participate actively in local governance and community development. Incentives should be provided for youth involvement in environmental sanitation, infrastructure maintenance and other community service initiatives”, he added.

Meanwhile, he called for effective governance, accountability, technological innovation, community participation and adequate funding, in order to realize the goals of state policing.

“I respectfully submit that policing reforms alone cannot solve Nigeria’s security challenges”, he said, “simply increasing the number of armed personnel may unintentionally create new opportunities for abuse, intimidation and insecurity”, he said.

High point of the celebration was the award to individuals and organisations and media organizations whose commitment and partnership have significantly advanced the mission of the CSLS in the last 20 years.

Among the recipients are ������Ƶ Newspaper and its Judiciary Correspondent, Alexander Enumah.

• Repeals 2022 rules, allows filing of election suits on weekends and public holidays

• Approves virtual hearings, restricts adjournments, empowers chief judge to transfer cases nationwide

Wale Igbintade

The Federal High Court has issued a new set of Practice Directions to govern the conduct of pre-election cases, repealing the 2022 guidelines and introducing sweeping reforms aimed at ensuring the speedy, efficient and fair resolution of election-related disputes ahead of future elections.

The Federal High Court (Pre-Election) Practice Directions, 2026, signed by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, took effect on June 29, 2026.

The new rules introduce several innovations, including the filing of pre-election cases on weekends and public holidays, virtual hearings, strict limits on adjournments, and expanded powers for the Chief Judge to transfer cases to any judicial division of the court across the country.

In a press statement signed by the Director of Information of the Federal High Court, Dr. Catherine Oby Christopher, the court said the Practice Directions were issued to enhance the timely disposition of pre-election matters in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2026, and other applicable laws.

According to the statement, the new Practice Directions repeal the Federal High Court (Pre-Election) Practice Directions, 2022, and provide a revised framework to improve the management of pre-election litigation.

Among the most significant innovations is the directive that registries of the Federal High Court in all judicial divisions across the country will remain open on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. exclusively for the filing of pre-election cases.

The measure is intended to ensure that litigants are not hindered by the constitutional time limits governing election disputes.

The Practice Directions also empower judges handling pre-election matters to leverage technology in conducting proceedings, including holding virtual hearings where appropriate.

In addition, the Chief Judge is authorised to nominate judges to hear pre-election matters in any judicial division and to transfer such cases from one division to another whenever necessary.

The court explained the objective is to promote efficient case management and ensure the timely resolution of disputes arising from party primaries and other pre-election matters.

Under the new regime, every pre-election suit must be commenced by Originating Summons, except where allegations of fraud, forgery or other highly contentious facts are made.

In such instances, parties are required to provide particulars of the allegations, which may be established through oral evidence or documentary exhibits.

The Practice Directions prescribe strict timelines for the filing of court processes.

Respondents are required to enter appearance within seven days of being served and file their defence within 10 days, while applicants may file replies within three days, where necessary.

To discourage lengthy legal arguments, written addresses must be concise, typed in 12-point font, double-spaced and must not exceed 15 pages.

The court also placed fresh obligations on litigants challenging the conduct or outcome of political party primaries by requiring them to join all relevant parties to enable the court effectively determine the dispute.

In a bid to curb delays that have historically characterised election litigation, the Practice Directions provide that no party shall ordinarily be granted more than two adjournments throughout the proceedings.

It further states that applications for adjournment will not be entertained on dates already fixed for hearing.

Where a party changes legal representation during the pendency of a case, the court also limited adjournments arising from such changes to a maximum of two.

The Practice Directions direct courts to give priority to all pre-election cases until judgment is delivered and require judges to fix hearing dates within seven days after parties have exchanged all necessary processes.

Where one of the parties is absent on the hearing date despite having been duly notified, the court may deem that party’s written address as adopted and proceed with the case.

The court also formally recognises the use of electronic communication in pre-election proceedings.

Judges may notify counsel of urgent court events through email or other electronic means, provided such notices are issued at least 48 hours before the scheduled court date. Parties are equally required to provide functional telephone numbers and email addresses to the court registry.

On interlocutory applications, the Practice Directions reaffirm the constitutional requirement that preliminary objections and other jurisdictional issues should generally be determined alongside the substantive suit at the stage of final judgment, except where the objection concerns the service of originating processes.

Applications seeking extension of time must now be brought by motion on notice and supported by affidavits setting out substantial, cogent and verifiable reasons for the delay.

The Practice Directions further encourage judges to explore the possibility of amicable settlement before proceeding to full hearing where circumstances permit.

They also preserve all proceedings instituted before the commencement of the new rules, while empowering courts to issue appropriate directions to ensure pending cases conform to the new procedural framework.

The Federal High Court said the overriding objectives of the Practice Directions are to ensure fair, impartial and expeditious determination of pre-election disputes, minimise delays and interlocutory applications, encourage settlement where possible, and guarantee that parties focus only on issues genuinely in controversy.

• Leads pan-African environmental clean-up across 20 African countries

Nume Ekeghe and Kayode Tokede

United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has rewarded thousands of customers with over N400 million in anniversary bonuses under its flagship UBA Bumper Account.

The cash reward reaffirms the Pan-African financial institution’s unwavering commitment to rewarding customer loyalty and promoting a strong savings culture.

The payout, one of the largest loyalty rewards under the Bumper Account initiative since its launch, saw qualifying customers receive anniversary bonuses directly into their accounts, demonstrating UBA’s resolve to create lasting value for customers who consistently save with the Bank.

In another development, UBA Plc has reinforced its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship by mobilising thousands of employees across its operations in 20 African countries for a coordinated environmental clean-up campaign held under its flagship employee wellness initiative, Jogging to Bond.

The pan-African exercise, which also underscores the bank’s focus on employee wellbeing and community development, saw staff participate in environmental sanitation activities across major cities where the bank operates.

Meanwhile, the UBA Bumper Account is a unique savings product that rewards customers simply for maintaining and growing their savings.

Every year an eligible account reaches its anniversary, customers receive a cash bonus, making disciplined saving both rewarding and beneficial over time.

Speaking on the milestone, UBA’s Head, Retail Products, Tomiwa Sotiloye, said the Bank remains committed to ensuring that customers benefit directly from their relationship with UBA.

“At UBA, we believe customer loyalty deserves meaningful recognition. Every bonus paid is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to customers who continue to trust us with their financial aspirations.

“Surpassing the N400 million milestone reflects our commitment to creating products that not only help customers save but also reward them in tangible ways. It is another demonstration that when our customers grow, we grow with them.”

He added that both new and existing customers can open a UBA Bumper Account seamlessly through https://on.ubagroup.com/bumper-tc, any UBA branch, the UBA Mobile Banking App, by dialing *919#, or online, positioning themselves to qualify for future anniversary rewards.

Also speaking, UBA’s Group Head, Brands, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, said the Bank’s customer-centric philosophy continues to shape its product offerings.

“The UBA Bumper Account reflects our unwavering commitment to putting customers first. We deliberately design products that reward responsible financial behaviour while delivering real value.

“Crediting over N400 million directly into customers’ accounts is not just a payout; it is evidence of our promise to make banking more rewarding and to continually appreciate the confidence our customers repose in us.”

The UBA Bumper Account remains one of the Bank’s flagship retail savings products, combining competitive savings benefits, digital convenience and attractive loyalty rewards. It forms part of UBA’s broader strategy to deepen financial inclusion by encouraging sustainable savings habits while delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Meanwhile, this year’s edition of the pan-African exercise was particularly significant as it coincided with the 60th birthday of the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, who marked the milestone by joining staff and colleagues in the exercise, reaffirming the bank’s culture of service, teamwork and sustainable impact.

Held under the theme, “The Power Within U,” the quarterly initiative brought together employees from across the Group’s African network for a day dedicated to fitness, teamwork, creativity, community service, and environmental responsibility.

The bank in a statement noted that a major highlight of the event was a coordinated environmental clean-up exercise carried out simultaneously across UBA’s markets.

From Lagos to Accra, Nairobi, Dakar, and other cities where the Bank operates, employees took to streets and public spaces to clean their surroundings, demonstrating UBA’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development.

The exercise underscored the Bank’s belief that corporate success must go hand-in-hand with positive social and environmental impact.

By integrating community service into employee engagement activities, UBA continues to strengthen its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) agenda while creating meaningful value in the communities it serves. 

Speaking during the event, Alawuba emphasised the importance of wellness, teamwork, and social responsibility in building a strong institution.

“There is no place I would rather be on my birthday than here, surrounded by the incredible people who make UBA what it is today. Our greatest strength lies in our people, in the passion, energy, and sense of purpose that unite us across Africa.

“When we run together, serve together, and work together to make our communities cleaner and healthier, we are doing more than promoting fitness.

“We are demonstrating our shared values and our commitment to the people and communities that place their trust in us every day,” Alawuba said.

In Lagos, the event featured a variety of wellness activities, including spinning bike sessions, fitness challenges, relaxation therapies provided by Oriki, and an exercise station hosted by iFitness, which also offered exclusive discounts to UBA employees.

Commenting on the significance of the initiative, UBA’s Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, said the programme reflects the Bank’s holistic approach to employee welfare and sustainable development.

“At UBA, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We believe that creating a thriving workforce requires investing in their wellbeing while also encouraging them to make a positive difference in society.

‘Jogging to Bond’ embodies our commitment to fostering a healthy workplace culture, strengthening team spirit, and contributing meaningfully to environmental sustainability. It is one of the many ways we continue to create value for our employees, customers, shareholders, and communities across Africa.”

As part of its broader Employee Value Proposition and ESG strategy, UBA continues to implement programmes that promote wellness, engagement, volunteerism, and environmental responsibility across its operations. Through initiatives such as “Jogging to Bond,” the Bank reinforces its position not only as a leading financial institution but also as a responsible corporate citizen committed to building a more sustainable future for Africa.

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT), Zaria, Tuesday signed a far-reaching Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on advanced training, capacity development, research and innovation.

The landmark move, the duo said, is set to reshape the future of Nigeria’s transport ecosystem,

The historic agreement, executed by the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, and the Director General of NITT, Dr. Bayero Farah, marks the beginning of a transformative partnership designed to raise professional standards, strengthen institutional capacity and position Nigeria’s transport sector on the global stage.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Corps Marshal described the occasion as a defining milestone in the history of Nigeria’s road transport sector, noting that the coming together of two foremost institutions represents a bold commitment to building a safer, smarter and more efficient transportation system.

He explained the partnership would deepen collaboration in specialised training, research, technology, driver training, knowledge exchange and human capital development.

According to him, “FRSC’s longstanding collaboration with NITT has already yielded remarkable results, but the formalisation of the relationship through the MoU opens an entirely new chapter of innovation and institutional excellence.”

The Corps Marshal further stated the partnership would significantly strengthen research capabilities, modernise driver training centres, enhance ICT-driven learning, and produce globally competitive transport professionals equipped to address emerging mobility and road safety challenges.

He emphasised that the agreement is not merely a ceremonial document but an actionable framework for immediate implementation, capable of accelerating reforms across Nigeria’s transport sector.

In his remarks, the Director General of NITT, Bayero Farah, commended the Federal Road Safety Corps for its visionary leadership and relentless commitment throughout the negotiation process, describing the Corps’ dedication as instrumental to the successful conclusion of the agreement.

He stated the central objective of the MoU is to ensure that transport education, professional training and research in Nigeria are fully aligned with global best practices, thereby producing world-class manpower capable of driving sustainable national development.

The ceremony was witnessed by key stakeholders, including the Chief Executive Officer of AAI, Mr. Ahmed Abdelhafaz, and the Chairman of AAI, Mr. Ejike Njeze, among others, whose presence further amplifies the strategic importance of the collaboration and the growing confidence of both local and international partners in Nigeria’s transport reform agenda.

• FG pledges deeper support for commission to strengthen fiscal governance reforms

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) facilitated remittances of about N1.84 trillion from operating surplus and internally generated revenue into the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) as of September 2025. Operating surplus refers to the excess of income over expenditure for Government-Owned Enterprises (GOEs) and parastatals over a fiscal year.

CRF is the primary central account of the Federal Government of Nigeria, established under Section 80 of the 1999 Constitution, and serves as the main repository for government revenues, excluding funds designated for specific public purposes, and is used to finance statutory transfers, debt servicing, and government operations.

Acting FRC Chairman, Charles Abana, who made the disclosure when he led top officials of the commission on a courtesy visit to Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, in Abuja, on Tuesday revealed that despite lower revenue performance between January and May 2026, the commission had already recorded over N760 billion in remittances from operating surplus and other independent revenues.

“The commission is targeting ₦2.5 trillion in independent revenue for 2026,” Abana said.

In a statement issued by FRC’s Head of Strategic Communication, Bede Anyanwu, Abana disclosed that the commission had completed a revised Operating Surplus Computation Template, incorporating provisions of the Finance Act 2020 and subsequent financial regulations.

He stated that the template was being automated to strengthen evidence-based fiscal oversight and improve public financial management.

Abana said the official presentation of the revised template had been scheduled for July 28 in Abuja.

While requesting the SGF to deliver the keynote address at the event, Abana also highlighted the unveiling of the commission’s 2026–2028 Strategic Plan, which he said aligned with the federal government’s development priorities under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He explained that the strategic plan focused on institutional reforms, stakeholder engagement, capacity building, international collaboration, and the adoption of global best practices in fiscal governance.

Abana also cited the successful management retreat held in 2026, describing it as an important platform for reviewing existing programmes, identifying emerging fiscal governance challenges, and developing strategies to improve service delivery.

He said the retreat reinforced the commission’s commitment to innovation, accountability, and excellence, while aligning departmental activities with the objectives of the new strategic plan.

Abana disclosed that FRC was developing the second edition of the Fiscal Responsibility Measurement Index (FRMI), a performance assessment tool designed to measure compliance with fiscal responsibility principles, particularly through budget implementation.

He said the index would support the oversight responsibilities of the National Assembly by providing objective data on the fiscal performance of MDAs.

The acting chairman said the commission was expanding collaboration with key anti-corruption and accountability institutions, including Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), and Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation.

He explained that the partnerships were intended to improve information sharing, strengthen coordinated oversight, and enhance enforcement of fiscal responsibility laws.

Abana said the commission had also agreed with EFCC and ICPC to refer cases involving clear financial breaches for investigation and prosecution under the relevant provisions of their enabling laws.

He underscored the commission’s commitment to amending the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007, stating that nearly two decades after its enactment, changing fiscal realities require a review of the legislation.

The proposed amendments, he said, would strengthen compliance mechanisms, improve enforcement powers, enhance transparency obligations, and align the law with contemporary international standards in public financial management.

He disclosed that FRC was working closely with Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation on a draft amendment bill, and appealed to the SGF to support the legislative process.

Abana reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda through fiscal sustainability, revenue optimisation, accountability, and efficient public service delivery.

He requested the SGF’s continued support in strengthening the commission’s operations, including assistance in securing a permanent office accommodation.

According to him, the commission currently operates from a rented facility in Asokoro, Abuja, which has become inadequate for its expanding responsibilities.

He also requested approval for the replacement of staff lost through retirement, resignation, and death to restore the commission’s technical capacity.

Abana sought support for the acquisition of operational vehicles and digital forensic investigation tools, stating that most of the commission’s existing vehicles have become unserviceable due to age.

In his remarks, Akume expressed the federal government’s commitment to strengthen support for FRC in order to deepen fiscal governance, transparency, and accountability across public institutions.

He commended the commission’s contributions to the advancement of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, particularly through its advisory role on fiscal governance and efforts to promote prudent management of public resources.

He also praised FRC’s collaboration with anti-corruption and oversight institutions in strengthening government accountability, transparency, and institutional integrity.

Akume stated that there was light at the end of the tunnel, assuring the commission of his support in addressing its institutional needs.

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The federal government in collaboration with the Institute of Education, Singapore, has commenced a capacity-building programme aimed at strengthening the delivery of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) across the country through the training of instructors and educators.

The initiative, tagged the “Train the Trainers (Pedagogy & Assessment) Programme,” is a 10-day intensive training jointly organised by the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and the Institute of Education, Singapore.

The programme is implemented in two cohorts, with the first cohort of 60 TVET teachers at the federal and state levels, currently undergoing training in Abuja, while a second cohort of another 60 teachers is scheduled to participate in Lagos.

Speaking with reporters at the training, National Coordinator, Special Programmes, Office of the Minister of Education, Adebayo Onigbanjo explained the programme is designed to equip Nigerian educators with modern pedagogical and assessment skills.

He noted that participants are expected to transfer the knowledge gained to their colleagues through a cascading training model, enabling the enhanced teaching methods to ultimately benefit students across the country.

Onigbanjo explained the programme aims to train additional members of Federal Technical Colleges to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals.

The ultimate goal, he said, is to increase capacity in technical education by producing more competent instructors who can deliver quality vocational education and prepare students with industry-relevant skills.

He added that the initiative forms part of the federal government’s broader efforts to reposition the TVET sector as a key driver of economic growth, job creation and industrial development.

According to him, improving the quality of teaching in technical institutions will ensure that graduates are better equipped to meet the demands of the labour market and contribute meaningfully to national development.

He expressed confidence that the knowledge and expertise gained during the programme would strengthen the capacity of instructors across Federal Technical Colleges, create a multiplier effect through continuous peer-to-peer training, and ultimately enhance learning outcomes for thousands of students nationwide.

He revealed that over 1.3 million Nigerians registered for technical skills training when the initiative was launched last year, making it imperative to build sufficient teaching capacity.

“We need more trainers. Those being trained today will return to their schools and train their colleagues, allowing us to scale up capacity across the country,” he said.

Also speaking, Technical Assistant to the Minister of Education on TVET, Dr. Nabila Mohamed, said the programme seeks to reposition technical education by shifting classroom instruction from theory-based teaching to competency-based practical learning.

She noted the training would expose participants to modern instructional techniques that would enable them to better engage students and prepare them for the workplace.

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The World Bank-supported HOPE Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity–Governance (HOPE-GOV) Program, domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, is set to disburse $27 million as performance-based incentives to states which successfully achieved the Year Zero Disbursement-Linked Results (DLRs).

The federal government, in collaboration with the World Bank implements the HOPE-GOV Program, a $500 million credit facility designed to improve financial and human resource management in basic education and primary healthcare.

Speaking in Abuja yesterday, during a retreat for commissioners, permanent secretaries, and directors of budget and planning in the 36 states and the FCT, the National Coordinator of the HOPE Governance Program, Dr. Assad Hassan said the disbursement was based on the findings and recommendations of the Interim Independent Verification Agent (IVA).

The IVA assessed the performance of states in meeting the Year Zero Disbursement-Linked Indicators (DLIs).

He listed the Year Zero Disbursement Linked Results as DLR 2.1, which relates to states’ adoption of comprehensive guidelines for preparation and submission of consolidated work plan for State Basic Education budget by March 31, 2025, a statement issued by the Communications Officer,

HOPE Governance Program. Joe Mutah stated.

The DLR 2.2 relates to states’ adoption of comprehensive guidelines for preparation and submission of consolidated work plan for the state primary health care budget by March 31, 2025 and DLR 2.3 – local governments adoption of harmonised budget guidelines/chart of accounts.

Hassan added that Disbursement Linked Result (DLR) 4.1 focuses on publication of Financial Year 2025 Citizens Budget for Basic Education and Primary Health by February 28, 2025 by the participating states.

He said for Disbursement Linked-Result (DLR) 2.1, Bayelsa, Borno, Kano, Kebbi and Yobe States are to receive $1.5 million each.

For DLR 2.2, Bayelsa, Borno, Kano, Kebbi and Yobe States are to be incentivised with $1.5 million each.

According to Hassan, Adamawa, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Gombe, Kano, Plateau, Taraba and Yobe States are to receive $500,000 each for achieving DLR 2.3.

While on DLR 4.1, he said, Abia, Plateau, Bayelsa, Borno, Edo, Ekiti, Enugu, Imo, Jigawa, Kano, Kebbi, Kogi, Nasarawa, Ondo and Yobe States would be receiving $500,000 each.

He explained that other participating states were not eligible for the incentives because they either published the required guidelines after the March 31, 2025 deadline, failed to meet most of the stipulated criteria, or did not publish the required results on their official state websites.

The National Coordinator identified several challenges that hindered the achievement of the results by many participating states. These, he said, include the inability to establish institutional coordination mechanisms thereby undermining institutional ownership and sustainability,

He also stated that the Interim Verification Agent is currently working to conclude second phase of verification of Year Zero by July 2026.

Hassan noted that the overall objectives of the HOPE Governance Program are to maximise the utilisation of federal and State funds at facility level for primary health care (PHC) and basic education; promote transparency and monitoring of inter-governmental transfers and expenditure for the two sectors and strengthen execution of coordinated annual plans for PHC and basic education.

Others are to strengthen accountability of primary healthcare and basic education expenditure and close staffing gap by hiring and deploying teachers and priority PHC workers across the states.

The National Coordinator said the Program has commenced preparations for the implementation of capacity-building action plan to provide hands-on technical support to help States achieve the Program results.

The HOPE Governance Program is a $500 million World Bank-supported initiative aimed at increased availability and effectiveness of financing for basic education and primary health care delivery; engendering transparency and accountability in financing the two sectors and improving recruitment, deployment, and performance management of basic education teachers and PHC workers by federal, state and local governments.

Sunday Ehigiator

Bank of Industry (BOI) appointed Kuramo Capital Management as Fund Manager of the $170.6 million DICE Fund of Funds, a landmark investment vehicle aimed at expanding venture capital financing for technology and creative start-ups across Nigeria.

The appointment, formalised at a contract signing ceremony in Abuja between BOI’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, and Kuramo Capital Chief Executive Officer, Wale Adeosun, marked a significant milestone in the implementation of the federal government’s Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Programme.

Under the arrangement, the federal government will provide an anchor investment of $85.3 million through the iDICE Programme, while Kuramo Capital is expected to mobilise an equivalent amount from private investors, bringing the fund’s minimum capitalisation to $170.6 million.

BOI described the initiative as one of the largest government-backed investments dedicated to technology and creative sector start-ups in Africa.

DICE Fund of Funds will invest through selected venture capital and micro-venture capital funds focused on technology and creative enterprises, with a mandate to reach founders across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

The structure is intended to broaden access to venture financing beyond traditional start-up hubs and stimulate innovation nationwide.

Speaking at the ceremony, Olusi said the initiative reflected the federal government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.

He said, “By investing in Ventures Platform’s Fund II, and now by establishing the DICE Fund of Funds with Kuramo Capital, we are deepening the federal government’s objective of upscaling Nigeria’s technology and creative sectors by catalysing strategic investments in high-growth, technology-enabled enterprises.

“The Bank of Industry is proud to be the executing agency driving this historic investment into the hands of Nigeria’s innovators.”

Adeosun described the appointment as a defining moment for venture capital development on the continent.

He said, “The DICE Fund of Funds represents a landmark moment for Africa’s venture capital ecosystem.

“Nigeria is demonstrating that a government can be both a serious anchor investor and a credible market-builder.

“We are honoured to be entrusted with this mandate and committed to deploying every resource at our disposal to raise the matching capital, invest wisely, and deliver returns that justify this historic confidence.”

The iDICE Programme, co-financed by African Development Bank (AfDB), Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), is the federal government’s flagship initiative to promote entrepreneurship, drive innovation, create jobs, and position Nigeria as Africa’s leading knowledge economy.

The programme recorded a major breakthrough in November 2025 when it made Nigeria’s first direct government investment in a private venture capital fund through a cornerstone commitment to Ventures Platform’s VP Pan-African Fund II, which closed at $64 million with support from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), British International Investment (BII), Standard Bank of South Africa and Proparco.

BOI said implementation of the programme was progressing across its three strategic pillars: skills and enterprise development, access to finance, and ecosystem enablement, with activities already underway in all six geopolitical zones.

The iDICE Start-up Bridge has enrolled its inaugural cohort of 185 founders, while applications for the second cohort opened on June 24. The programme is also expected to launch its Growth Lab in July, providing growth-stage start-ups with potential equity funding of up to $100,000.

In addition, BOI is establishing and upgrading digital and creative hubs in 66 universities and polytechnics nationwide in partnership with National Universities Commission (NUC) and National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

To improve access to financing, the bank has also rolled out the BOI/iDICE Debt Fund and the IsDB Murabaha Debt Fund, which together have earmarked $110 million for start-ups operating in the technology and creative industries.

The DICE Fund of Funds has been structured to target a net internal rate of return of 20 per cent and a net money multiple of 2.4 times. The federal government’s commitment will serve as a 30 per cent first-loss tranche, a risk-sharing mechanism designed to attract institutional investors and increase private capital participation.

Vice President Kashim Shettima described the commencement of investments under the programme as a major step towards unlocking opportunities for young Nigerians.

According to Shettima, “The commencement of investing by iDICE is an exciting milestone and a leap forward in the determined efforts of the Government of Nigeria, under the leadership of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to deliver on our vision of unleashing the full potential of Nigeria’s young people, in line with the Renewed Hope agenda.”

BOI said the establishment of DICE Fund of Funds, alongside its earlier investment in Ventures Platform, was expected to transform Nigeria’s start-up financing landscape by increasing the availability of domestic venture capital and reducing founders’ dependence on foreign investors for early-stage funding.

Kayode Tokede

The FTSE Russell, yesterday said it has placed its planned reclassification of Nigeria back to Frontier Market status under “further review.”

The Nigerian capital market, July 1 2026 joined the United States, others to achieve a historic milestone with the successful transition to a T+1 settlement cycle, becoming the first market in Africa to implement the shortened settlement framework designed to enhance efficiency, reduce risk, and improve global competitiveness.

The transition means that securities transactions executed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) will now settle one business day after trading, allowing investors to receive cash or securities faster than under the previous T+2 framework.

FTSE Russell, a global index provider in a statement noted that the decision was to allow the index provider to thoroughly assess how Nigeria’s recent transition to a shortened T+1 settlement cycle (clearing and settling trades one business day after execution) affects international institutional investors.

The global index provider stated that it would provide a definitive update on Nigeria’s potential return to the Frontier Market index by the end of August 2026.

Nigeria had originally been upgraded from “Unclassified” back to “Frontier Market” status during the March 2026 interim review—with an effective implementation date set for September 2026.

FTSE Russell noted that the reclassification would now be decided after its assessment of the T+1 impact on the market.

“From 01 June 2026, the Nigerian equity market transitioned from a T+2 to T+1 settlement cycle, which could result in Nigeria becoming a de facto prefunded market for international institutional investors.

“A requirement to prefund equity trades is deemed a negative for the ‘Settlement Cycle (DvP)’ criterion, which is one of the five core FTSE Quality of Markets criteria required for attaining Frontier market status within the FTSE Equity Country Classification scheme.

“Consequently, the reclassification of Nigeria is under further review to assess the implications of the transition to a T+1 settlement cycle for international institutional investors.

“FTSE Russell will provide an update on the status of Nigeria’s potential reclassification to Frontier market status by the end of August 2026,” the organisation stated.

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

Nigerian Employers Consultative Association (NECA) says the federal government needs the collaboration and support of organised businesses to effectively drive economic policy reforms and to achieve the desired goals.

The umbrella body of employers and top business owners in Nigeria said government also needed to consistently review, reassess, or re-plan reforms to ensure their outcome aligned with the country’s economic objectives

Director-General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, made the statements on Tuesday, in an interview with journalists at the Nigerian Employers Summit in Abuja.

Oyerinde said the focus of the Employers’ Summit was to do a thorough review of the reforms being implemented by government and to assess their impact so far.

He said the reforms had apparently become very harsh for Nigerians to bear due to prevailing circumstances.

Oyerinde said, “Removing the fuel subsidy in 2023, I suppose, was a bit late. We would have removed it long ago.

“But it changed the dynamics of doing business. Because as someone says, all of us seem to have been eating our breakfast for dinner. We were living large.

“Past governments were printing money. No economy prints money. We are subsidizing what is not subsidisable.”

He stated, “So we were all living large, thinking everything is okay. So, and that’s the context of saying we are eating our breakfast for dinner. Then it was dawn.

“It was morning. We were all expecting breakfast. And the president said, look, I won’t borrow to buy breakfast for you again.

“Because everything you’ll have used for breakfast and for lunch, most likely, you have had it for dinner. So, the pain of, the hunger pang of breakfast, we all have to bear it. The hunger pang of lunch, we all have to bear it.”

Oyerinde said the removal fuel subsidy had come with its challenges, which included the distortion of the way citizens did business.

According to him, the cost of doing business increased because everyone has to pay for fuel and diesel.

Oyerinde said the measure also affected individuals whose disposable incomes had reduced.

He stated, “Somehow, those reforms affect everybody. ������Ƶes, individuals, workers. So, for the reform to be effective, government needs the collaboration and support of organized businesses to drive it and drive it effectively.

“And government also needs to consistently review, reassess, or re-plan these reforms. If at any point in time, we realise that those reforms are not giving us the kind of outcome that we want.”

However, he said organisations, businesses, social enterprises, and even individuals could leverage the reforms and also the Economic and Social Governance (ESG) regime.

The NECA director-general said if businesses were not sustainable, hardly would anyone be able to create jobs.

“If the business is not sustainable, hardly will the government be able to make revenue from those businesses in the context of company tax,” he said.

Oyerinde said apart from providing a platform for top government officials to interface with business owners, the summit hoped to share its outcome and recommendations with the federal government to guide the implementation of reforms.

• Says Nigeria positioned to strengthen competitiveness through reporting reforms

• Presents 2026 actuarial practice draft regulations to stakeholders for input

James Emejo in Abuja and Dike Onwuamaeze in Lagos

Executive Secretary/Chief Executive, Financial Reporting Council (FRC), Dr. Rabiu Olowo, yesterday said Nigerian businesses must embrace sustainability reporting as a strategic tool for attracting investment in an increasingly competitive global economy where transparency had become a major determinant of capital allocation.

Olowo said investors were no longer guided solely by profitability but were placing increasing emphasis on how organisations managed Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) risks, created long-term value, and demonstrated resilience.

Olowo spoke on “Mandatory Sustainability Reporting: A Catalyst for Competitiveness, Access to Finance and Sustainable Growth in Nigeria”, at the 5th Annual Nigeria Employers’ Summit in Abuja.

Separately, in Lagos, Olowo presented the draft 2026 Nigerian Actuarial Practice Regulations (NAPRs) to stakeholders in actuarial practice in the country to aid their comprehensive understanding of its provisions, scope, and application before its final enactment.

NAPRs will provide a regulatory framework for all actuaries in Nigeria offering actuarial services for financial reporting purposes, in compliance with the provisions of the FRC Act, 2011 (as amended).

The FRC boss, who was represented by Head, Sustainability Reporting Regulations Department, Mr. Abubakar Rasaq, said the ESG shift was redefining the investment landscape, making credible sustainability disclosures a key factor in determining which companies attracted financing, secured strategic partnerships, and gained access to international markets.

According to him, the development presents both an opportunity and a challenge for Nigerian businesses as global investors, lenders, and development finance institutions increasingly channel resources to organisations that provide clear and reliable information on their sustainability performance.

The FRC boss stated that in an environment where access to capital remained constrained, companies with credible sustainability disclosures were more likely to enjoy investor confidence.

He described transparency as the foundation upon which investment decisions were increasingly being made.

Olowo stressed that sustainability reporting had evolved beyond a compliance requirement into a business imperative capable of improving governance, strengthening risk management, and enhancing long-term competitiveness.

He said the disclosures enabled businesses to communicate their future growth strategy more effectively, helping investors assess not only current financial performance but also their preparedness for emerging risks and opportunities.

Olowo warned that Nigerian companies that delayed preparations until sustainability reporting became mandatory could find themselves at a competitive disadvantage as reporting expectations continued to tighten across major economies.

He explained that global supply chains, multinational corporations, and financial institutions were becoming increasingly selective, with sustainability information now forming part of investment, lending and procurement decisions.

Olowo maintained that for Nigeria, widespread adoption of sustainability reporting had implications beyond individual companies.

According to him, stronger corporate transparency would improve the country’s investment climate, deepen investor confidence, enhance institutional credibility and position Nigerian enterprises to compete more effectively in global markets.

He added that businesses capable of demonstrating sound governance and responsible business practices would be better placed to attract foreign capital, expand exports, and integrate into international value chains.

Olowo urged company boards and executive management to take ownership of sustainability reporting rather than treat it as a routine compliance exercise.

He said sustainability considerations should be embedded in corporate strategy, risk management and long-term decision-making if organisations were to remain competitive.

He reiterated the council’s commitment to supporting the transition through technical guidance, stakeholder engagement, and capacity building.

Olowo stated that Nigeria’s phased implementation roadmap was designed to prepare businesses ahead of mandatory reporting for public interest entities beginning in 2028.

He disclosed that more than 50 organisations across banking, manufacturing, telecommunications, oil and gas, insurance, financial services, and other sectors were already working towards full adoption of the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) Standards, while over 4,500 participants from 215 organisations had benefited from the council’s training programmes.

Olowo maintained that sustainability reporting represented a strategic opportunity to reposition Nigeria as an attractive investment destination by strengthening corporate governance, improving transparency, and reinforcing confidence in the country’s institutions.

He said, “������Ƶes that respond early to the changing reporting landscape would be better positioned to secure long-term capital, access new markets and withstand future economic shocks, while the broader economy would benefit from stronger capital inflows, increased job creation and more sustainable growth.

“The companies that will succeed in the future will not necessarily be the biggest companies. They will be the companies that are most trusted. Trust has become the currency that increasingly determines where global investment flows.”

Olowo added, “History shows that organisations that anticipate change are usually better positioned than those that merely react to it.

“Sustainability reporting presents Nigeria with an opportunity to strengthen competitiveness, attract investment and build more resilient institutions. We should seize that opportunity with confidence and determination.

“For Nigeria, this represents more than a reporting reform. It represents an opportunity to strengthen our investment environment, improve corporate transparency, deepen confidence in our institutions and position Nigerian businesses for greater participation in the global economy.”

Olowo said, “It is an opportunity we cannot afford to ignore.

“The companies that will succeed in the future will not necessarily be the biggest companies. They will be the companies that are most trusted. And trust is increasingly built on transparency.

“The question before us is therefore not whether sustainability reporting will shape the future of business. The question is whether we will position ourselves early enough to benefit from the opportunities it presents.

“If we get this right, Nigerian businesses will be better positioned to attract investment, access markets, strengthen resilience and compete globally.”

He also said, “If we get this right, we will strengthen our institutions, deepen investor confidence and support national development. If we get this right, we will build a more competitive, more transparent and more sustainable Nigerian economy. That, is what success looks like.”

The actuarial practice draft was presented yesterday in Lagos by Olowo, who was represented by Head, Directorate of Auditing Practices Standards, FRC, Mr. Olasunkanmi Ayinde.

Olowo said, “Most importantly, today we present for your consideration the exposure draft of the Nigerian Actuarial Practice Regulations 2026 – a landmark regulatory framework developed through extensive technical work and stakeholder collaboration.”

He said NAPRs was important because reliable financial reporting was dependent on reliable actuarial work.

He said, “Where actuarial assumptions are weak, financial reporting becomes unreliable. Where actuarial valuations lack consistency, investors lose confidence. Where professional accountability is absent, public trust diminishes.”

Olowo said the proposed NAPRs would establish minimum professional and technical standards; strengthen ethical conduct and independence; promote consistency in actuarial practice; enhance transparency and accountability; improve the quality of actuarial reports; encourage the development of Nigerian actuarial data and assumptions; support compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs), particularly IFRS 17 and IAS 19; and strengthen investor confidence in Nigeria’s financial reporting environment.

He said, “Ultimately, these regulations will contribute significantly to financial stability and economic resilience.

“The regulations apply to actuarial services performed for financial reporting purposes, particularly within Public Interest Entities (PIEs).

“Every actuarial valuation, opinion, report and professional engagement will therefore be subject to appropriate quality and regulatory oversight.”

Olowo said the key features of the proposed regulations were carefully designed around internationally recognised regulatory principles while reflecting Nigeria’s peculiar realities.

Among its key provisions, he said, were comprehensive regulatory coverage, adoption of international best practice, ethics, independence and professional integrity, transparency and consistency.

According to him, “The framework incorporates the international standards of actuarial practice while making carefully considered local adaptations to reflect Nigeria’s economic and regulatory environment.

“This ensures that Nigerian actuarial practice remains globally credible while locally relevant.

“The regulations reinforce the importance of independence, objectivity, confidentiality, professional competence and ethical conduct.

“Quality management systems, peer review mechanisms and professional accountability have been embedded within the framework.”

He added, “Standardised actuarial reporting requirements will significantly improve comparability, consistency and reliability across actuarial engagements.”

Olowo emphasised, “Regulation achieves its greatest value when it is developed collaboratively.

“The FRC firmly believes that effective regulation must be informed by practical experience, technical expertise and stakeholder participation.

“Today’s engagement, therefore, provides an opportunity for all interested parties to examine the Exposure Draft critically and constructively.”

Delivering a keynote speech, titled, “Overview of the Nigerian Actuarial Development Programme (NADP),” Chairman of NADP, Mr. Rotimi Okpaise, said NADP was a strategic initiative of FRC aimed at building a strong, sustainable, and globally competitive actuarial profession in Nigeria.

Okpaise, who was represented by Executive Director, Zamara Consulting Actuaries Nigeria Limited, Mr. Emeka Okoji, said the programme emerged from the establishment of Directorate of Actuarial Standards under the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria Act 2011 (as amended), and reflected FRC’s commitment to strengthening financial reporting, risk management, and economic resilience.   

 According to him, the NADP “workgroup was established to provide strategic direction for the development of the actuarial profession and to create a framework for building local capacity capable of supporting Nigeria’s evolving financial sector.”

Assistant Director/Head, Directorate of Actuarial Standards, FRC, Mr. Harris Oshojah, who presented the “Programme Objectives/Overview”, said the stakeholders’ engagement session for the presentation of the draft of NAPRs 2026 was an important step in the effort to strengthen the regulation of actuarial practice in Nigeria and ensure that actuarial services provided for financial reporting purposes were properly guided and suitable the purpose.

Oshojah said the draft regulations were previously exposed to the public for comments, but now “we are grateful for the valuable observations and contributions received from stakeholders”.

He said, “Today’s session provides a further opportunity for engagement before the regulations are finalised.”