₦airaland Forum

Energy economists have called for targeted cash transfers to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices on vulnerable Nigerians, as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to unsettle global oil markets.

The call was made on Sunday ahead of the 19th annual international conference of the Nigerian Association for Energy Economics, scheduled to hold in Lagos from April 26 to 29, 2026, where stakeholders are expected to deliberate on the implications of global energy shocks on African economies.

A former president of the association, Professor Adeola Adenikinju, said the current situation presents a “two-edged sword” for Nigeria, with potential revenue gains from higher oil prices on one hand and worsening economic hardship for citizens on the other.

According to him, rising petrol costs have triggered increases in transportation fares and inflation, placing additional pressure on low-income households.

“This is the time that Nigeria should say, ‘Look, we are sending some cash to those poor people who are vulnerable,” he said, stressing the need for direct intervention to support the most affected.

He, however, noted that the absence of a reliable database of vulnerable Nigerians remains a major constraint to implementing effective cash transfer programmes.

“If we have the data of all the poor people, this is the time that Nigeria should send some cash to those who are vulnerable, but we don’t have the data,” he added.

Adenikinju said while recent moves to increase allowances for civil servants may provide limited relief, such measures would exclude a large segment of Nigerians working in the private and informal sectors. He therefore urged both federal and state governments to collaborate in designing broader support mechanisms.

Beyond immediate relief, the economist emphasised the need for structural reforms that would strengthen social protection systems and improve the country’s capacity to respond to external shocks.

The conference, themed ‘Evolution of Energy Mix in Africa: The Role of Technology, Economics and Public Policy’, will bring together policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, investors, academics and development partners from across Africa and beyond.

The president of the association, Hassan Mahmud, said the event comes at a critical time when Africa faces the challenge of balancing energy security, affordability and sustainability amid a global transition to cleaner energy.

He noted that the discussions would focus on how emerging technologies such as renewable energy, energy storage and digital systems can shape the continent’s future energy landscape, as well as how economic frameworks and public policies can attract investment and support industrialisation.

Mahmud also highlighted concerns that Africa, despite contributing less than four per cent of global carbon emissions, faces increasing pressure to decarbonise without adequate financing or technological support.

According to him, the conference aims to reposition the energy transition as an opportunity for growth, job creation and poverty reduction, rather than a constraint on development.

Participants are expected to engage in high-level plenary sessions, technical discussions on energy markets and policy reforms, as well as industry showcases highlighting innovation across the energy value chain.

The event will also feature strategic dialogues aimed at producing actionable policy recommendations for governments and institutions across the continent.

Mahmud said the conference would serve as a platform to generate evidence-based insights and foster collaboration among stakeholders, with outcomes expected to influence policy direction and investment decisions in the energy sector.

He added that delegates would undertake a technical visit to the 650,000 barrels-per-day Dangote refinery, described as the largest single-train refinery in the world, to gain first-hand insight into Nigeria’s refining capacity and its role in enhancing energy security in West Africa.

Stakeholders at the conference are also expected to examine how Africa can leverage its vast hydrocarbon resources alongside renewable energy potential to drive a pragmatic and inclusive energy transition.

Those expected at the conference include billionaire businessman and Chairman of Heirs Energies, Tony Elumelu; the Chief Executive of the Dangote Group, David Bird; a former minister of power, Barth Nnaji; energy regulators and others.

The association called on members of the media, private sector players and development institutions to actively participate in the discussions and amplify outcomes that would shape Africa’s energy future.

Adding to the policy debate, another former president of the association, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe, stressed the need for a fundamental shift in Nigeria’s energy strategy, particularly towards developing the downstream sector.

She said Nigeria’s overreliance on crude oil exports limits job creation, describing the upstream sector as an enclave industry with minimal employment impact.

“When you now open up the downstream and really make it functional and viable, you have industries throwing in hundreds of thousands of jobs into Nigeria,” she said.

Omorogbe emphasised that strengthening domestic refining and downstream operations would not only reduce dependence on imports but also create productive employment opportunities for Nigerians.

She added that supporting local refining capacity is critical to economic stability, warning that without it, Nigerians would face even higher energy costs.

Source: https://punchng.com/economists-call-for-cash-support-to-protect-poor-from-fuel-hikes

Nigeria’s former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, claimed that electricity generation in the country peaked at over 6,000 megawatts (MW) during his tenure.

The minister, who resigned last week, also stated that available generation capacity was between 3,500MW and 4,500MW when he assumed office in August 2023. The claim was made in his resignation letter dated April 22, 2026 with reference number FMP/HM/SGF/026/I/001.


“When I assumed office in 2023, the power sector was confronted with significant structural and operational challenges. Available generation capacity was between 3,500 and 4,500 megawatts despite an installed capacity of over 13,000 megawatts.”


Daily Trust- FACT CHECK: Did Nigeria’s power generation exceed 6,000MW as Adelabu claimed?

Adebayo Adelabu

[b]“However, under your visionary leadership and the Renewed Hope Agenda, the sector has recorded measurable progress across the entire electricity value chain. Key achievements during this period include the successful implementation of the Electricity Act 2023, which has decentralized the electricity market and created a more investment-friendly framework. Peak generation has increased to over 6,000 megawatts, supported by the integration of the Zungeru Hydropower Plant and the rehabilitation of several thermal power assets,” [/b]he said.


To verify the claim, Daily Trust obtained electricity generation data from the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC) and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), covering quarterly performance from 2023 to 2025 and monthly data from January to March 2026.

Nigeria’s power sector has long struggled with inadequate and unreliable electricity supply despite repeated reforms and policy interventions. Installed capacity has consistently exceeded 13,000MW, yet actual electricity delivered to consumers remains far lower due to constraints in generation, transmission, and distribution.

No evidence of 6,000MW peak generation

Data from APGC shows that Nigeria’s grid never recorded a verified peak generation of 6,000MW or higher within the reviewed period: 2023: Peak ~5,000MW; 2024: Peak ~5,528MW; 2025: Peak ranged between ~5,300MW and ~5,801MW and 2026 (early months): Available capacity declined to ~4,089MW by March.

While generation approached the 6,000MW mark, it did not surpass it based on verified industry records.

NERC data shows fluctuating capacity, not sustained growth

Quarterly data from NERC indicates a volatile pattern.

Average Generation Capacity rose to 4,922MW in Q4 2023 shortly after Adelabu assumed office from 4211.44MW in Q3, 2023. It dropped to 4,249MW in Q1 2024, recovered to ~5,296MW by Q4 2024 and then ~5,430MW in Q3 2025 before declining to ~4,089MW by March 2026.

This trend reflects inconsistency rather than a sustained breakthrough in generation performance.

Experts warn against misinterpreting “peak generation”

According to APGC CEO, Joy Ogaji, confusion often arises from mixing different power sector metrics:

Installed capacity: ~13,000–14,000MW
Available capacity: ~4,900–7,300MW
Peak generation: ~5,000–5,800MW
Average delivered power: ~4,100–4,600MW


These figures are not interchangeable. Peak generation represents a momentary high point, not sustained output.

For instance, even when peak generation reached about 5,528MW in 2024, average supply remained around 4,100–4,200MW, revealing a significant gap between potential and actual delivery.

Structural constraints limit real output

Although Nigeria’s power generation has approached 6,000MW under optimal conditions, there is no verified evidence that it exceeded that threshold during Adelabu’s tenure.

Verdict: False

[i]The claim that Nigeria’s power generation peaked at over 6,000MW is not supported by verified industry data. Although Nigeria’s average available generation stood slightly above 4000MW when Adelabu assumed office, Peak generation remained below the 6000MW mark, while average electricity supply continued to lag significantly behind installed capacity.[/i


Source: https://dailytrust.com/fact-check-did-nigerias-power-generation-exceed-6000mw-as-adelabu-claimed

Antoeni:
Now That Tinubu APC Government is Distributing Branded Pants to Married Women. What Are They Up to?

Can you imagine!


Is this not invitation to indecent sexualism.


Wait to see gang banging, cause they will ask you to unclad to confirm your dedication.........

As the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited continues its search for technical partners to operate the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries, former President Olusegun Obasanjo has once again insisted that the facilities will never work.

Obasanjo spoke during a television interview aired on Saturday night by Sony Irabor Live, which was monitored by our correspondent.

He said, “One of the lessons that I learnt is that PPP (public-private partnership) works. Look, one project that has not been destroyed by the government in Nigeria is the NLNG (Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas), where the private sector has 51 per cent, and the Nigerian government has 49 per cent.

“See what we did with Nigerian railways. See what we did with the national shipping company. See what we are doing now, even with the NNPC. The NNPC has refineries, and I said to people that it will never work. And a man had the audacity to say, ‘Am I a chemical engineer?”

Obasanjo spoke about his failed efforts to woo Shell, a global energy firm, into running the refineries. “Look, when I was there, I called Shell. I said, ‘Look, please, I beg you, come and take 10 per cent equity and run the refinery for us.’ They said no. I said, ‘Okay, if you don’t want to take equity, don’t take equity. Come and run the refineries. They said no,” he stated.

The former president narrated how he invited a top official of Shell for a one-on-one conversation to know why his offers were turned down.

“So, I called him, and I said, ‘Tell me, be honest with me. Why don’t you want to handle this?’ He said first, they want to let me know that they make most of their profits on the upstream, not the downstream.

He said they run their downstream without making a loss, but they don’t make a lot of profit from it. It’s more of a service than a major profit-making. So that’s number one.

“Number two: he said our refineries are too small. This was when I was an elected President. He said our refineries are too small. One is 60,000 barrels, and another is 100,000 barrels. He said refineries at that time were in the range of 250,000 barrels to 300,000 barrels. Number three: he said our refineries are not well-maintained. We call quacks and amateurs to come and maintain our refineries. The refineries are not in good order. He said, ‘Number four, there’s too much corruption around our refineries, and they don’t want to be part of that,” Obansanjo explained.

He recalled that he counted the country lucky then when the President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, told him of the willingness to offer $750m to take 51 per cent of two of the facilities.

“Until one day, Aliko (Dangote) came and offered $750m to take two of the refineries; that will be 51 per cent. I said, ‘Wow, God, you are really a God of miracles.’ I told Aliko to bring the money quickly. They brought the money, and they paid,” he said.

However, the Balogun Owu explained further that his successor, the late Umar Yar’adua, reversed the deal after he left office, claiming he was under too much pressure from the NNPC

He mentioned that only the current NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, has said the truth about the state of the refineries so far.

“When I left office, NNPC went to my successor and convinced him. So I got up. I went to Umar. I said, ‘Look, Umar, maybe you don’t know; this is why we did what we did.’ He said, ‘Well, NNPC came to me.’ I said, ‘But you know that NNPC cannot run this thing. He said he knew. I asked, ‘Then why did you give in? He said because of pressure. And I said, ‘Look, when you sell these refineries, you will not get 200 million (dollars) for them, because you will sell them as scrap.’

“Only the present NNPC head has told the country the truth. But in the meantime, I was told that they have spent about $16bn, which is only $4bn short of what Aliko used to build Africa’s largest refinery,” Obasanjo said.

In November 2025, the NNPC announced a fresh target of June 2026 to finalise the selection of technical partners for the refineries.

Ojulari said that despite the rehabilitation and reopening of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries in 2024 before they were later reclosed, the facilities were operating “well below international standards”, making their products commercially uncompetitive, especially compared to the privately owned Dangote refinery.

Dangote said he built his refinery after the Yar’Adua administration reversed the sale of the NNPC refineries to him and his other associates. He is also of the opinion that the NNPC refineries may never work again.

The NNPC communications office has yet to respond to messages seeking reactions to the former president’s claims.

Source: https://punchng.com/nnpc-refineries-will-never-work-again-obasanjo

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, on Sunday said its operatives have intercepted a consignment of an amphetamine-based drug, Captagon, in Kwara State.

Captagon, a highly addictive stimulant commonly used in the Middle East, is known for inducing prolonged wakefulness, euphoria and reduced fear.

Authorities say it is often linked to criminal networks and insurgent groups.

NDLEA said the interception followed an earlier bust at the Apapa seaport in Lagos.

This was made known in a statement issued by NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi.

The statement said operatives on patrol along Bode Saadu Road on April 21, 2026, intercepted a passenger, Nasiru Mu’azu, 33, in a trailer.

According to the statement, a search led to the recovery of 10 packs of Captagon comprising 10,000 pills, as well as nine packets of Tapentadol 250mg.

In a separate operation at the same patrol point on April 24, NDLEA operatives intercepted another trailer and recovered 155,900 capsules of tramadol, 6,000 ampoules of tramadol injection, 3,000 tablets of co-codamol and 9,000 tablets of bromazepam concealed in a false compartment. A suspect, Aminu Isah, 24, was arrested.

In Oyo State, NDLEA officers intercepted a commercial bus along the Ibadan/Oyo Expressway on April 21. A passenger, Eze Prince Emeka, 33, was subjected to a body scan, which confirmed ingestion of illicit drugs. He later excreted 45 pellets of cocaine weighing 1.043 kilograms over three sessions.

The suspect reportedly intended to transport the drugs to Europe through trans-Saharan routes, using Algeria as a transit point after initial delivery in Sokoto.

In Edo State, NDLEA operatives on April 25 intercepted a truck along the Benin/Lagos expressway carrying 1,196,000 pills of pharmaceutical opioids. Two suspects, Osagie Igbinibo, 43, and Omijie Malik, 44, were arrested. The consignment was reportedly headed to Onitsha, Anambra State.

Other operations across the country led to additional seizures and arrests.

In Lagos, a suspect, Rasheed Ibuowo, 40, was apprehended with 810 kilograms of cannabis. In Bauchi State, Muktar Bello, 35, was arrested with 288 blocks of skunk weighing 154.5kg.

In Ekiti State, 466.8kg of skunk was recovered from a residence, while NDLEA operatives destroyed 20,000kg of cannabis cultivated on farmland in Cross River State.

In Niger State, 394 components suspected to be for improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were seized from a suspect, Mohammed Aliyu, 26, who has been handed over to relevant security agencies.

NDLEA Chairman, Mohamed Buba Marwa, commended officers involved in the operations and described the Captagon seizure as a significant disruption of drug trafficking networks.

He warned that the drug remains a target for traffickers due to its links to violence and insecurity, adding that the agency would sustain efforts to prevent its spread.

Source: https://dailypost.ng/2026/04/26/ndlea-intercepts-terror-drug-captagon-in-kwara-as-bizman-excretes-45-cocaine-wraps

Members of the United States Congress have formally requested detailed explanations from the Pentagon on the US airstrikes conducted in Nigeria on December 25, 2025, as well as the broader American military posture in the country.

The United States President, Donald Trump, had announced on December 25 that US forces conducted strikes against Islamic State-linked militants in Nigeria’s North-West region.

The Federal Government later stated that the operation, carried out in Sokoto State, was authorised and did not violate the country’s sovereignty or territorial integrity.

However, in a March 9, 2026 letter addressed to US Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, and obtained by our correspondent on Saturday, lawmakers led by a Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Sara Jacobs, and Congressman Jason Crow demanded clarification on the operation.

The letter was also copied to US Africa Command Chief, Dagvin Anderson, and Secretary of State, Marco Rubio.

The lawmakers sought details on the Sokoto State strikes, including their legal basis, coordination with Nigerian authorities, intelligence sharing, and reports suggesting possible civilian casualties and operational errors.

The correspondence referenced public statements from the US administration describing the December 2025 operation as “multiple flawless strikes” against “ISIS terrorist scum” in northwest Nigeria targeting militants for “viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians.”


However, the lawmakers questioned the basis of those claims, writing that “Nigerian and international experts have noted that there is currently no credible public evidence of a sustained or operational ISIS presence in Sokoto State.”

The letter also cited reports alleging that “at least four of 16 missiles failed to detonate as intended or missed their intended targets by hundreds of miles,” with some reportedly striking farmland and residential buildings.

The lawmakers further referenced accounts of unexploded munitions being found in civilian areas with no known links to militant activity.

The letter also noted reports that the US was deploying approximately 200 troops to Nigeria to train local forces, alongside a smaller existing US military presence that assists with intelligence gathering and targeting support for Nigerian operations.

The congressional inquiry included 11 specific questions directed to the Department of Defence.

In the letter, the lawmakers asked how many strikes the US has conducted in Nigeria since December 25, 2025.


They requested details on intended targets and assessments of who was killed or injured in each incident.


They also inquired about the coordination that occurred with the Nigerian government and military before, during, and after the strikes, including intelligence sharing, targeting decisions, and public communications.

A key focus of the letter was the legal authority under which the strikes were conducted.

The lawmakers asked, “Under what legal authority did the United States undertake these strikes?” and questioned why the operations were not reported to Congress under Section 4(a)(1) of the 1973 War Powers Resolution.

The letter also sought clarification on reports of missile failures and targeting errors. It specifically asked for the Pentagon’s assessment of “the reported failure of at least four Tomahawk missiles to hit their intended targets,” including strikes near Tambuwal and Ofa in Kwara State, and whether those incidents were due to “technical malfunction, targeting error, or other causes.”

Concerns about civilian harm were also raised, with the lawmakers requesting information on “civilian casualties or injuries resulting from US strikes,” particularly in areas near Jabo and Ofa, and asked how US Africa Command has engaged with affected communities.

The committee also requested a breakdown of the financial cost of the December 2025 operation and any subsequent strikes, including munitions, personnel, surveillance, and intelligence support.

“What is the Department’s current estimate of the total financial cost of the December 25th airstrikes in Nigeria, and any other subsequent US strikes in Nigeria since then, including the munitions expended, platform and personnel costs, intelligence and surveillance support, and post-strike assessments?” they asked.

Additional questions addressed the impact of the strikes on regional security, the metrics used to evaluate their effectiveness, and the broader US strategy for addressing armed violence in Nigeria.

The lawmakers also sought clarity on the reported troop deployment, asking, “What are the functions and objectives of the US military deployment to Nigeria, reported on February 3?” and why it would not trigger reporting requirements under the War Powers Resolution.

They also requested information on future operations, asking, “What is the Department’s current posture and plan for any future US strikes, or US-enabled strikes, in Nigeria?”

The lawmakers requested a response from the Department of Defence by March 20, 2026.

Our correspondent could not ascertain whether the Pentagon has responded, as a thorough search for any official reply did not yield any results.

Source: https://punchng.com/us-congress-probes-trumps-2025-airstrikes-in-nigeria

Kenya’s President William Ruto has credited Aliko Dangote with solving a fuel scarcity crisis that Nigeria’s oil wealth failed to prevent for decades, as he rallied support for a planned East African refinery modelled on the Lagos facility

Ruto made the remarks on Wednesday at an infrastructure summit in Nairobi while making the case for African-led solutions to the continent’s energy challenges.

“Nigeria has been a producer of oil for all the years that we know. Yet, when you went to Nigeria, there were queues of people looking for fuel in petrol stations for a long time.

“Until one[font=Lucida Sans UnicodeAfrican stepped forward and built a refinery, Aliko Dangote,” he said.

The Kenyan president used the example to argue that Africa possessed the human and financial capital to solve its own problems, without looking to Europe or Asia.

Ruto urged regional leaders, industrialists and financiers present at the summit to act without delay.

“I dare say, ladies and gentlemen, we have in this room the political leadership, we have the industrialists, we have the financials to transform our continent and we must waste no time looking any further,” he said.

Dangote, who was present at the summit, pledged support for the proposed East African refinery if regional governments committed their backing.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited had for years promised to rehabilitate the country’s four public refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna, but repeated turn-around maintenance exercises yielded little result, leaving private investment to fill the gap.

Critics, however, have noted that fuel supply and pricing pressures have not fully eased in Nigeria since the Dangote refinery came on stream, with pump prices remaining high for many Nigerians.

Source: https://punchng.com/kenyan-president-credits-dangote-for-ending-fuel-scarcity-in-nigeria

No fewer than 30 traditional rulers across the southern area of Kwara State have fled their palaces following a sustained wave of kidnappings, killings and violent attacks, Saturday PUNCH has learnt.

Our correspondents gathered from two credible community leaders that the affected monarchs were seeking refuge in urban centres, including Ilorin, Osogbo, Offa, and Lagos.

Findings show that some of the affected traditional rulers are from Omugo, Afin, Oreke, Oreke Oke-Igbo, Olohuntele, Alabe, Ganmu Ailehri, Ologanmo, and Igbo Agbon communities.

While some have been away from their domains for months, others have been out for nearly a year.

Their displacement, triggered by repeated attacks by armed groups, has created a leadership vacuum in their communities.

A resident of Omugo community, Wale Olasunkanmi, said his traditional ruler, known locally as Eesa, fled due to fear of abduction.

He said, “In the past, our traditional rulers were always around. They lived among us and provided leadership during crises. But now, they don’t stay here anymore. They only come occasionally for meetings or special occasions and leave immediately.

“When attacks became frequent, it was no longer safe for them to remain in the palace. Even ordinary residents are afraid, so you can imagine what it means for a king who is always a target.”

Olasunkanmi recalled that a major attack on the community in March 2026 marked a turning point.

“After the bandits attacked the church on March 22 and abducted about eight people, many families started leaving. The fear was too much. People abandoned their homes overnight,” he said.

He added that while there had been a slight improvement in security in recent weeks, the absence of traditional rulers continued to affect coordination and decision-making.

“Even as some people are trying to return, there is no strong leadership on the ground. That makes it difficult to rebuild confidence,” he stated.

According to him, Omugo is part of the larger Oro-Ago community, which comprises about 15 towns, including Ajegunle, Iragbon, Ago, Oke Ayin, Oyate, and Oke Daba, all of which have experienced varying degrees of attacks.

Further findings by Saturday PUNCH showed that Oreke and Oreke Oke-Igbo communities have been largely deserted since June 2025 following repeated bandit incursions.

The situation escalated after an attack on a marble mining site near Oreke-Okeigbo on June 4, 2025, where two police officers, Assistant Superintendent Haruna Watsai and Inspector Tukur Ogah, were killed.

A palace worker, Samuel Afolayan, said the attacks marked the beginning of mass displacement.

“Initially, they were just stealing food and livestock. But later, they started kidnapping and killing people. That was when everyone began to leave.

“As I speak to you, I have not been to Oreke since June last year. The king is not there, the palace is empty, and the entire community is deserted. Even neighbouring villages along that axis have been abandoned,” he stated.

Afolayan described the area as “completely isolated,” adding that basic social and economic activities had collapsed.

Similarly, the Oniwo of Afin, Oba Simeon Olaonipekun, has not returned to his domain since he was abducted alongside his son on New Year’s Eve.

Gunmen invaded his residence in December 2025 and kidnapped the monarch and his son, who is a corps member.

While the son was released after about 21 days, the monarch regained his freedom after a ransom reportedly exceeding N30m was paid.

A palace source said the monarch was still undergoing treatment.

“Kabiyesi went through a very traumatic experience. He spent almost a month in captivity under harsh conditions. Given his age, it affected him seriously,” the source said.

“Since his release, he has been receiving medical attention. Doctors advised that he should rest and avoid stressful situations. That is why he has not returned to the community.”

Across the affected communities, the impact of the attacks has been devastating.

Saturday PUNCH gathered that farms had been abandoned, schools shut down, and markets rendered inactive as residents fled to safer locations.

The latest gunmen attack occurred in Olayinka community in Ifelodun LGA, where armed men stormed the palace of the monarch, Oba Salman Olátúnjí Aweda, in the early hours of Saturday and abducted him alongside his wife and another resident.

Police authorities later confirmed the arrest of 42 suspected illegal miners in connection with the abduction, while sources disclosed that the kidnappers demanded about N400m ransom.

A resident, who identified himself simply as Tunde, recounted the attack.

“It was like a war scene,” he said.

“They came with guns and started shooting. People were running in different directions. Before we knew what was happening, Kabiyesi had been taken.”

Tunde added that the attackers appeared to have prior knowledge of activities in the palace.

“Earlier that day, some miners came to pay royalties to the king. So, when the attackers came at night, they demanded the money. Kabiyesi gave it to them, but they still took him away. After that incident, everyone fled. Nobody wants to stay there again,” he said.

Traditional rulers killed by gunmen

Beyond Olayinka community, a disturbing pattern has emerged across Kwara South, with traditional rulers increasingly becoming targets.

In September 2025, the Baale of Ogbayo in Oke-Ode was killed in his palace after gunmen invaded the community at dawn.

Earlier, in February 2024, the Olukoro of Koro-Ekiti, Oba Olusegun Aremu-Cole, was killed in his palace, while his wife and another person were abducted.

Sources said the kidnappers initially demanded N100m, which was later reduced to N40m.

In November 2025, the Ojibara of Bayagan-Ile, Oba Kamilu Salami, was abducted on his farm and released after about 25 days in captivity following the payment of ransom.

According to findings, ransom demands in recent cases have ranged between N40m and N400m.

A source involved in one of the negotiations said, “They usually start with outrageous figures, sometimes over N100m. After negotiations, it may come down, but it is still a huge burden.

“In many cases, families have to sell properties or borrow money to secure the release of their loved ones.”

‘Development disturbing’

The Coordinator of the Joint Security Watch in Kwara South, Olaitan Oyin-Zubair, said the signs of mass displacement were long ignored.

“There was a time we raised the alarm that communities were being deserted, but people did not take it seriously. The development is really troubling and disturbing” he said.

“Today, more than 28 communities with traditional rulers in Ifelodun have been abandoned. Places like Olayinka, Oro-Ago, Omugo, Ahun, Oke-Oyan, Owa-Kajola, Owa-Onire, and Oba have become ghost towns. Farms are abandoned, schools shut, markets dead. The reality we warned about has become undeniable,” he stated.

Residents said the crisis had severely disrupted agriculture and worsened food insecurity.

A trader from Oro-Ago, Bose Adeyemi, said she had relocated to Ilorin.

“I am a yam seller, but I cannot go back home. Nobody wants to farm anymore because it is too dangerous,” she said.

A retired civil servant, Janet Adebisi, said she had abandoned her investments.

“I used my gratuity to start farming, but I cannot even visit the farm now. My life is more important than any investment,” she said.

Traditional council under scrutiny

The wave of attacks has put the Kwara State Traditional Council under scrutiny, with many questioning its response to the crisis.

While sources within the council confirmed that meetings had been held with government officials and security agencies, critics say the response has not been visible enough.

A community leader in Ekiti LGA, Adebayo Ojo, said, “Our royal fathers must speak with one voice. People expect leadership at a time like this.”

However, a palace source who did not want to be named said engagements were ongoing behind the scenes.

“These issues are being discussed. The traditional rulers are engaging government and security agencies, but not everything can be made public,” the source said.

The crisis has also sparked debate over the role of traditional and spiritual methods in safeguarding communities.

A socio-political advocate in Kwara State, Abdul-Rahoof Bello-Labelabe, raised concerns over what he described as the worsening security situation in Kwara South.

He warned that residents were increasingly vulnerable to attacks and abductions across several communities.

Bello-Labelabe, who identified himself as the Advocate of Igbomina Liberty and Northern Yoruba Nationality, said there had been no meaningful improvement in security, particularly in Ifelodun LGA.

He disclosed that a wave of kidnappings recorded between Wednesday and Thursday affected multiple communities, leaving scores of residents abducted.

He also referenced the abduction of a traditional ruler in Olayinka community alongside his wife, noting that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom running into millions of naira.

The advocate claimed that many traditional rulers no longer resided in their domains due to safety concerns.

“Although not all traditional rulers have abandoned their communities, a significant number of them no longer live there. They only visit when necessary and leave immediately. Very few have the courage to remain. If any of them is still residing in their domain, let them come forward and state it openly,” he said.

Bello blamed abandonment of traditional practices.

“In the olden days, no one dared to touch a king. Today, our monarchs have abandoned traditional ways of protection.

“Our kings have their share of the blame. They harbour these bandits and criminals; they give them land; they know them, they cannot pretend they do not know them.

“They allow aliens to intermarry with the natives; they create markets for them; they install Seriki for them on Yoruba land. If security is made their responsibility, they will take it seriously,” he added.

The community leader linked the worsening insecurity to illegal mining activities and weak local structures.

Traditional rulers abandoned indigenous protection — Monarch

The monarch of Osi community in Akure North LGA, Oba David Olajide, also advised his colleagues to adopt measures to protect themselves and their subjects against criminal attacks.

Olajide, who once survived a bandit attack in his community, also lamented that some rulers had abandoned the traditions of their communities.

He said, “The issue of insecurity in the country is getting worse to the extent that bandits are attacking obas, but we traditional rulers are not resting on our oars. For instance, in my local government here, we are taking proactive measures both traditional and modern, but these are matters we can only discuss in the media cautiously because they are security issues.

“Another issue is that some obas are wrongly chosen in their communities. It is very absurd to hear that bandits are killing monarchs. Bandits cannot kill a real monarch; they cannot even go near where they are, let alone attack them. In the olden days, warriors used to be made obas, so how can you attack a warrior? It is not possible.

“But the problem we are having is that some obas were not chosen the way they should be chosen. They were selected based on connections in government or because they have money. Such persons would not take the tradition of the community seriously. Nowadays, we are having politicians as obas, and people who don’t understand tradition as obas. These are the problems.

“So, obas too need to reduce their flamboyant lifestyle. They should not be seen everywhere, at every ceremony, spraying money or moving in convoy. We obas should understand the issue of insecurity nowadays and reduce all these lifestyles.”

However, the monarch urged the government and security agencies to support efforts aimed at fighting crime and criminality in their domains.

Meanwhile, local vigilante groups say they are struggling to contain the situation due to poor equipment and limited support.

A vigilante member in Ifelodun, who identified himself as Musa, said armed groups had taken over forests in the area.

“We know these forests, but they have better weapons. Sometimes, before help comes, they are gone.

“Even with our local guns, we are always facing them without fear, but you know their superior firepower always gives them the upper hand,” he said.

He, however, called for stronger collaboration between vigilantes and formal security agencies, including better funding and equipment.

The Chairman of the Igbomina Professional Association, Bode Iranloye, described the situation as alarming.

“This menace has destroyed the peaceful nature of our communities. It has affected agriculture, commerce, and communal life,” he said.

Iranloye recommended improved intelligence gathering, deployment of surveillance technology, and stricter regulation of illegal mining activities.

A security analyst, Sadiq Lawal, said the trend was concerning.

He said, “When criminals begin to target traditional rulers, it is a clear indication that authority structures have collapsed. In many African societies, kings are seen as sacred and untouchable. Once they become targets, it means the criminals are no longer afraid of consequence.”

Source: https://punchng.com/kidnap-terror-30-kwara-kings-flee-palaces

Beady Nnanna, a producer and publisher, tells AYOOLA OLASUPO how her sister, Blessing Okolie, lost her life due to medical negligence by a doctor, who allegedly left a pair of scissors in her stomach during fibroid surgery at a private hospital in Lagos State

Tell us about yourself.

I’m a media personality, the producer of Beadysworld TV and publisher of Beadysworld Blog News. I’m also an influencer and social activist.

What is your relationship with the late Blessing Okolie?

She was my sister.

How old was she?

She was 44 years old.

What led to her initial visit to the hospital?

She had a fibroid, and it was very big, as if she was pregnant. Even when people saw her, they mistook her for being pregnant. That fibroid was really disturbing, and she was married.

But the husband left her because of that fibroid. She couldn’t give birth to a child. So, the last time the mother tried to call the man to know why they were having issues, the man said to her, “You know that your daughter has a problem with fibroids.”

He said it as if having a fibroid had become a crime. For almost two years, the husband did not show any concern, so the situation got her worried, and she really wanted to remove the fibroid to see if she could have a child.

In December 2025, we took her to the Air Force Base Hospital, but she declined. She said she didn’t want to go there and that she wanted to go to a particular hospital at Igoke Estate, around Abule Egba, Lagos State.

I asked her why she wanted to go there because I felt that the hospital was not standard enough, but she said the hospital was good and that someone who had done the surgery there before recommended the place to her.

I objected to her idea because I just couldn’t understand why she would leave a good hospital for a non-standard one.


What happened at the hospital?

On March 27, 2026, she came to my house, and we drove to the hospital. Meanwhile, that was the first time I would visit that medical centre. We saw the doctor standing outside, but I was not happy, and I was not satisfied with what I saw there.

Blessing kept telling me that I should not bother myself and that the doctor was good. After a while, they gave us a ward where we slept till the next morning.

What were you not satisfied with about the hospital in the first instance?

The hospital was not standard. Looking at everything there, it didn’t look standard at all. So, on March 28, very early in the morning, they came to call her that it was time for her to enter the theatre.

Then she went there at exactly 7:22 am, and we were there till 11:49 am. She had the surgery, and it was okay, and they brought her outside the theatre, where there was a bench, and they laid her there.

She was there, and she didn’t even notice anything. I was the one who cleaned her mouth because she was already tired. When I asked the doctor what was wrong, he said she would come up and that I should keep calling her name.

So, if I called Blessing, she would respond by opening her eyes slightly, but she was not talking. We were there for about four to five hours, and they said they wanted to give her tea and milk to drink, but I objected.

I challenged them on how they would give tea and milk to someone who had just had that kind of surgery. The lady called Oloma, whom she said introduced her to the hospital, said they also gave her the same tea when she had her surgery, but I insisted.

I then said that if they needed to give her anything, they should give her Lipton and hot water instead. They said she needed the energy to climb up the staircase because their theatre was downstairs, while the ward was upstairs.

What happened thereafter?

The nurse and the other lady, Oloma, took Blessing out of the theatre and gave her the tea. So, I requested that they let her rest very well. After a while, around 8:30 am, they came back and said they wanted to take her upstairs.

I was surprised that they could allow someone who had just had surgery to walk. Normally, she was in pain because it is a normal thing for somebody who has just gone through surgery to feel pain.


Nnanna
At what point did you begin to sense that something was seriously wrong after the surgery?

On Sunday, Blessing started talking, and people came to visit her. On Monday, she was still talking, but she was complaining of a particular pain in her abdomen, and by Tuesday, things had changed.

On Wednesday, her stomach started swelling up. I called the doctor and asked what the problem was, but he said there was nothing. I refused to listen to him and insisted that something was wrong because her stomach had swollen.

So, I asked that we do a scan to find out why the stomach was swollen, but the doctor insisted that there was no problem. They gave her an injection and set a drip for her.

Yet, on Wednesday and Thursday, the stomach was still swelling, and I kept clamouring that we should do a scan. But they said there was nothing in her stomach and accused me of trying to teach them their job.

Then they said what if they did the scan and nothing was there? I responded that I just needed to be sure because I was not satisfied with the way her stomach was swelling. I was bothered because of that.

How did you discover that there was a pair of scissors inside her stomach?

I never thought of scissors when she was complaining about that pain in the side of the stomach. I was even thinking that they had harvested one of her organs, so I kept begging for a scan, but they refused.

She had the surgery on Saturday, and almost a week after the surgery, she was still in serious pain. They then brought out a pipe, put it in her nose, and started draining something greenish out of her stomach.

I said, “Doctor, let’s have a scan.” But they kept saying, “What is wrong with this woman? Do you want to teach us our job?” I told them that I just wanted to be sure that nothing was wrong. Blessing’s health worsened to the point that she couldn’t even stand up.

At one point, they said we should stop giving her anything. We even stopped giving her water, and she was there without water or anything. That was for ten days after the surgery.

So, a new doctor came there to see her, and it was the first time I saw him. He asked me questions, and I started explaining to him. That was when I realised that those people did not even have products for patients.

After I explained to the doctor that I had been asking for a scan to be done for over a week, he said they should get the scans done on her. That was how they gave me a letter to go do the scans elsewhere.

When I got to the lab where they asked me to go, I was told that they had not been doing it for over two years. So, the nurse who came with me said we should go back.

I was angry and didn’t know when I said, “Are you mad? Go back to where when I came out of this hospital without a scan?” We then went to Clinix, where we did the scan.

What did the scan detect?

They did the scan and gave it to me. We paid over N90,000 for it. When I read the result, it stated that a metal was inside her stomach below her abdomen.

At that moment, I cried and drove Blessing back to the hospital. One of the people who did the scan asked me to take her back because her condition had already worsened.

How did the doctor react at the hospital when you showed them the result of the scan?

They were ashamed of themselves. I could see the surprise and shame all over them, but I didn’t say anything.

What explanation did they give for the medical error after seeing the result from the scan?

They did not say anything, and I was just looking at them. I could have escalated it to their management, but the owner of the hospital was not around. The only doctor around was the one I gave the result to.

Then they came to her ward and said they needed to wheel her into the theatre again. I asked them why, and they said they needed to open the surgery again. That was someone who had not taken water or food for over five days, and she was already weak.

Then I asked why they didn’t refer us to a big hospital like Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre, or Lagos State University Teaching Hospital. But they said no and that she would be fine.

Then she was wheeled into the theatre for the second time, but I wasn’t even sure she could withstand it because she was already weak.

Was she placed on oxygen?

On April 7, they wheeled her into the theatre again, and the surgery was carried out, and they said they had removed what was in her belly.

Hearing that, I expected that there should be a difference and her health should improve, but on April 8, there was still no difference, and she was still the same. I said again that they should refer us to another big hospital, but they kept saying that she would be fine.

At that point, I was very worried because the green substance was still coming from her belly. The next day, she deteriorated, and they put her on oxygen. I kept telling them to refer us because I saw that they could not handle it, and any time I said that, they would make me feel like I was being troublesome.

I asked one of the doctors, who said she would get better, but her intestines were weak. I shouted because her intestines became weak because of the scissors that were left in her stomach for 10 days.

On Friday, I was already weak, so I decided to go home. When I told Blessing that I was going home to freshen up, she begged me not to leave her, but I promised her that I would return.

So, I went home and got back to the hospital around 11 pm. When I saw her, I knew she was not herself, and I called the hospital staff. But I found out that they didn’t even know what to do.

They were always trying to manage things, so they went to bring oxygen for her again. Immediately she was placed on oxygen, the light went off.

I asked them to turn on the generator, and they said they didn’t have fuel. I became uncomfortable and started shouting because it was a few minutes before 3 am. I thought they were going to leave her till daybreak.

Then I threatened them that I would burn down the hospital if they didn’t take my sister out of there. That was when they gave me a letter around 3 am. I told the doctor to follow us, but he refused, saying he could only follow if it was an emergency.

I asked, “Is this not an emergency? Are you not supposed to give us an ambulance and a doctor or a nurse to hand us over?”

But the doctor said no and that maybe a nurse would go with us. Then they called Mr Abiodun, the owner, who told the nurse not to follow us. The doctor on duty also told the nurse to remove the drip.

I was so angry, so I beat the nurse out of the car. When the doctor came, I confronted him and asked why they wanted to remove the drip at that hour.

After the altercation, they left my car, and I carried my sister with no medical support around Abule Egba and went to LASUTH. When we got there, they said there was no space. I begged them to treat her in my car, but they refused.

Then I started making calls, and someone hinted that we should take her to the O&G Medical Emergency at LASUTH, so they started treating her.

They attended to her, but bureaucracy and protocols affected us. They began treatment a few minutes to 4 am and said she would be admitted to the ICU.

How much did you pay at the hospital?

We paid N1.2m, aside from over N1m spent on drugs and tests. At the first hospital, we also spent a lot.

For injections and tablets, there was one we bought for N27,000, and we bought five or six at a time. They charged N650,000 for the surgery.

That Sunday, we bought drugs of N180,000 each and another of N250,000. But early the next morning, they called us and said her heart had stopped.

They said they tried to revive her, but she passed. I begged them to resuscitate her again, but they couldn’t. That was how my sister died.

Looking back, what do you think could have been done differently to save Blessing?

If they had done a scan the second day after the surgery, they would have detected the object earlier, and she might have survived. But most of her organs were already infected before the scissors were removed.

Has she been buried?

No, she is still in the mortuary.

Did you report the inconsistencies at the first hospital to the police?

Yes, I did.

Have you received any update from the police yet on the case?

No, we have not. They sent us to Zone 2 instead.

What kind of justice do you seek for your sister?

Despite the hospital knowing that my sister had died, they did not even bother to reach out. We personally called them, but till today, the doctor has not shown up.

That hospital needs to be shut down. My sister is dead now, but I don’t want others to experience what she went through. That is why I am clamouring for justice. The government needs to investigate and shut down the hospital.

We await autopsy report on Blessing Okolie’s death — OAR Medical Director
Dr Abiodun Ojifinni, Medical Director of OAR Medical Centre, Abule-Egba, Lagos State, speaks to AYOOLA OLASUPO about the allegation that the death of one of their patients, Blessing Okolie, was caused by complications developed after a pair of scissors was left in her stomach during a myomectomy (surgery for the removal of fibroid)

Is it true that Blessing Okolie had a fibroid removal surgery at your facility?

Blessing Okolie had a myomectomy, which is a surgery for a fibroid in our facility on the 28th of March 2026. She was fine initially but a few days after the surgery there were complications of sepsis, which is a bacterial infection, after the surgery.

We were managing the situation until the family, especially Beady, asked for a referral because she wasn’t satisfied with the progress her sister was making on treatment. At her insistence, we referred her to the Lagos State University of Teaching Hospital, where we later learnt that she passed on after a few days of admission.

We actually commiserated with the family. At this time, I think it was a good time to start addressing the half-truths and the falsehoods that have been circulating on social media.

She claimed that Blessing’s health condition had already worsened before your facility eventually granted her request to be transferred to another hospital. What can you say about that?

Those are the half-truths and falsehoods I’m talking about, and I’m saying that in order not to offend the sensitivity of the people who have lost a loved one, especially in respect for the departed person, we should actually wait.

There is an autopsy request that was made at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital. The real cause of death will be spelt out in histopathology. That is the most authentic cause of death test that we all should wait for. We enjoined Ms Beady to take things easy and find a way of talking to her.

I know she still hurts by the turn of events at the end of the day. We did not want anything to happen to any of our patients. She might not remember that Blessing was actually a friend, apart from being a patient in my hospital. So, we are eagerly awaiting the results of the autopsy. As you know, when something is awaiting a coroner’s inquest, then we have to wait and hear from the pathologist.

Beady also said that another surgery was performed on Blessing at your facility after the scan detected that a metal was inside her belly. Is it true that the metal was a pair of scissors?

This is why I said that, for the reasons of not exchanging words that will offend the sensitivity of the people who are mourning at this time, we should wait and let the results of the coroner’s inquest be published. Then, we can come back and talk about this.

It is in the interest of everybody because it is not right to have a government agency handling this issue.

It amounts to prejudice to start talking about it this way. But I really appreciate the effort you took to talk to me about it. Please, I am open to any discussion about it when the coroner’s inquest is published.

Are you saying that the state government is currently on the matter?

Yes, the late Blessing departed at LASUTH, and part of their requirements is that once there is a controversy in the cause of death, they will go ahead to do a coroner’s inquest, and that is what everybody is waiting for. We all should talk to Beady to take things easy, and let’s look at the natural cause of death together.

Source: https://punchng.com/my-sister-died-after-doctor-forgot-scissors-in-her-stomach-sibling

The Plateau State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria has petitioned Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Commander of Operation Enduring Peace over what it described as repeated incidents of cattle killings and poisoning in communities within Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.

The petition, dated April 23, 2026, was signed by the state chairman of the association, Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, and made available to journalists in Jos on Friday.

Babayo said the petition became necessary due to what the association considers a growing threat to the livelihoods of herders in the area.

In the document titled “Urgent Complaint on Repeated Killing of Cattle,” the association stated that the incidents occurred within a short period—on April 18, 20, 22, and 23, 2026—across different communities in Barkin Ladi LGA, which it said suggests a troubling pattern.

According to the petition, 10 cows were allegedly poisoned in Rakung Village on April 18, while another cow was reportedly killed in the same village on April 20. It further claimed that nine cattle were poisoned behind the Lokojora area on April 22, alongside additional incidents along the Nding axis on April 22 and 23.

The association said the incidents have had economic implications for its members and raised concerns about their broader impact on livelihoods, food security, and community relations.

Babayo also stated that, to the best of the association’s knowledge, no arrests had been made in connection with the reported incidents. He called on security agencies to investigate the matter, prevent further occurrences, and ensure those responsible are identified. The group also appealed to the government to consider support for affected herders.

While urging a thorough investigation, the association called on its members to remain calm and law-abiding, noting that continued tensions could affect ongoing peace efforts in the area.

The group has previously alleged that some individuals from the Berom community were involved in such incidents. However, the National President of the Berom Youth Moulders Association, Solomon Dalyop, has consistently denied the claims, stating that members of the group are not involved.

Source: https://dailytrust.com/macban-petitions-mutfwang-dss-over-alleged-killing-poisoning-of-cattle-in-plateau

In an assessment of Nigeria’s current fiscal trajectory, the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has questioned the Federal Government’s continued reliance on borrowing despite the removal of the petrol subsidy.

Speaking in an interview posted by News Central TV on Friday, the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, stated that while the removal of fuel subsidy and the liberalisation of the exchange rate were necessary, the timing and lack of fiscal discipline are threatening to erase the potential benefits.

According to the monarch, Nigeria’s practice of supporting foreign refineries while its domestic refining capacity remained dormant was a systemic failure that needed to be addressed.

“I have always said the subsidy regime was unsustainable. We cannot continue supporting foreign refineries. We’re an oil-producing country. Keeping refineries open abroad while we’re not doing our own,” Sanusi said.

He, however, expressed optimism over the current shift toward domestic production, noting that the country has moved from a heavy importer of petroleum products to an exporter.

“Today, we have a situation where we have our own domestic refinery. We’re not importing petroleum products. We’re even exporting to Europe, and this is very good for the economy,” he added.

While backing the policy shifts, the former apex bank chief raised concerns over the timing and the sequence of the reforms.

He said, “Artificial exchange rates, especially when you’re printing money, cannot work. There was going to be a devaluation.

“For me, removing subsidy or liberalising exchange rates, these are good interventions. Were they done at the right time? Those are certain questions. Were there other things that should be done that have not been done? These are other issues.”

He argued that liberalising the exchange rate in a “loose monetary environment” contributed to the currency’s rapid depreciation.

“It’s not enough to say, oh, they removed subsidy. You had to. When you get to a point where 100% of your revenue goes into debt service, you cannot continue. Where is the money going to come from?


“However, if you decide to remove subsidy and liberalise exchange rates in an environment of very loose monetary conditions, before you have tightened money supply, the Naira drops to a bottomless pit. That was a timing issue.”

Sanusi went further to challenge the Federal Government’s continued borrowing despite eliminating subsidy payments.

“We’ve removed the subsidy. We’re now spending it. What we should not see is fiscal consolidation. You cannot remove wastages and continue borrowing. I’ve said this before. You need to see the benefits.


“If you’re not paying the subsidy and you’ve got the money, why are we still borrowing and borrowing? What are we borrowing for?” Sanusi questioned.

PUNCH reported earlier in April that the Federal Government increased its 2026 borrowing plan upward by ₦11.31 trillion, bringing the total projected borrowing for the year to ₦29.20 trillion.

President Bola Tinubu also sought the Senate’s approval on Thursday for a fresh $516 million loan to fund the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway.

Source: https://punchng.com/why-are-we-still-borrowing-sanusi-questions-fgs-debt-rise-despite-subsidy-removal

The Federal Government plans to raise N700bn from the domestic bond market in April 2026, extending a gradual reduction in offer size as it continues to navigate elevated borrowing costs.

Details from the April 2026 Federal Government of Nigeria Bond Offer Circular issued by the Debt Management Office showed that the auction is scheduled for April 27, with settlement on April 29.

The issuance will be executed through the re-opening of existing instruments across three maturities, a strategy aimed at improving liquidity in benchmark securities.

The circular indicated that the offer comprises N300bn of the 17.945 per cent FGN August 2030 bond, N100bn of the 17.95 per cent FGN June 2032 bond, and N300bn of the 22.60 per cent FGN January 2035 bond.

The bonds will be issued in units of N1,000, with a minimum subscription of N50.001m, targeting institutional investors such as pension funds, banks, and asset managers.

The DMO also noted that the instruments qualify as liquid assets for banks and enjoy tax exemptions under existing laws, factors that continue to support investor appetite.

A review of recent issuances showed that the April offer represents a further reduction in the government’s monthly borrowing target.

The offer has declined steadily from N900bn in January to N800bn in February, N750bn in March, and now N700bn in April, signalling a measured adjustment rather than a shift in overall strategy.

In March, the government offered a total of N750bn, comprising N250bn in a five-year bond, N200bn in a seven-year bond, and N300bn in a 10-year bond.

The latest adjustment reduces the overall size by N50bn, while also altering the distribution across maturities, with the seven-year component cut significantly.

The coupon structure for the April issuance further highlights the prevailing high-yield environment. While the five-year and seven-year instruments carry rates of about 17.945 per cent and 17.95 per cent respectively, the 10-year bond is priced significantly higher at 22.60 per cent.

This represents a sharp increase compared to similar long-term instruments offered in previous months, reflecting investor demand for higher returns to compensate for risks associated with inflation, exchange rate pressures, and global uncertainties.

Final yields will, however, be determined at the auction, where successful bidders pay based on their yield-to-maturity bids in addition to accrued interest.

The sustained high-interest-rate environment aligns with the tight monetary stance of the Central Bank of Nigeria, which has maintained elevated rates to curb inflation. This, in turn, continues to push up domestic borrowing costs and adds pressure to the government’s debt servicing obligations.

The PUNCH earlier reported that Nigeria’s total debt service rose to about N16tn in 2025, according to analysis of data from the Debt Management Office.

The figure was an increase of N2.98tn or 22.9 per cent from about N13.02tn recorded in 2024, highlighting growing fiscal pressure as debt servicing continues to take a larger share of government resources.

Source: https://punchng.com/fg-plans-to-borrow-n700bn-via-april-bonds

The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, is set to resign his position after securing President Bola Tinubu’s consent to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State.

The PUNCH reports that the development followed a meeting between the minister and the president on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where Adelabu presented a comprehensive briefing on his stewardship of the power sector over the past two and a half years.

A statement signed by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Bolaji Tunji, on Tuesday, noted that a[b] central highlight of the engagement was the presentation of the National Integrated Electricity Policy and its accompanying Strategic Implementation Plan.[/b]

The minister was said to have outlined milestones recorded under his leadership, including efforts to stabilise electricity generation, strengthen transmission capacity, and implement reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and service delivery across the power sector value chain.

The statement disclosed that the minister would soon step down from office.

It read, “In view of this development, Chief Adebayo Adelabu is expected to resign his position as Minister of Power in the coming days.”

The timing of the anticipated resignation, according to the statement, reflects efforts to ensure continuity in ongoing reforms.

“The timing of his anticipated resignation reflects his commitment to addressing key sectoral challenges and ensuring continuity in ongoing reforms prior to exiting office. Notably, this includes efforts to stabilise the sector following recent declines in power generation due to gas supply constraints to power plants, ongoing pipeline repairs, and outstanding obligations to gas suppliers, as well as the need to secure the President’s approval for his intended resignation and gubernatorial aspiration in Oyo State,” Tunji said.


Recall that the president had earlier instructed all appointees who wanted to contest to resign on or before March 31.

The statement read that during the meeting with Tinubu, Adelabu presented a comprehensive report on his stewardship.

“During the meeting, the minister outlined key milestones recorded under his leadership, including efforts to stabilise electricity generation, strengthen transmission capacity, and implement reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and service delivery across the power sector value chain,” it stated.

The statement further said that a central highlight of the engagement was the presentation of the National Integrated Electricity Policy and its accompanying Strategic Implementation Plan as well as the Medium-Long Term Integrated Resource Plan for the Power Sector to guide succession and sustainability.

Explaining the policy framework, the statement noted, “The NIEP is a comprehensive policy framework designed to guide the sustainable development of Nigeria’s electricity sector. It provides a long-term roadmap for achieving energy security, expanding electricity access, integrating renewable energy, and building a more resilient and efficient power sector.”

President Tinubu, according to the statement, commended the minister for his dedication and progress recorded in the sector.


[b]“President Tinubu commended the minister for his dedication and the progress recorded, particularly in laying a strong policy foundation for the transformation of the power sector. The President also granted his consent and blessing for the minister to pursue his governorship ambition,” [/b]Tunji explained.

He added that the minister expressed appreciation to the president for his steadfast support and reaffirmed his commitment to the advancement of Nigeria’s power sector and overall national development.

Source: https://punchng.com/breaking-adelabu-set-to-resign-as-power-minister-over-gov-ambition

Nigerians are increasingly faced with the pain of rising inflation and cost of living as the Iran-United States-Israel war takes ripple effects on Africa’s most populous country.


DAILY POST reports that this is despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s reforms.

The latest inflation data released by the National Bureau of Statistics showed that both headline and food inflation in March rose to 15.38 percent and 14.31 percent recently.


The surge comes amid the over 50 percent and 70 percent increase in fuel and automotive gas oil prices since the Iran-US-Israel war escalation on February 28, 2026.

DAILY POST reports that petrol and diesel rose to between N1,290 and N1,350 per liter from N900, while diesel stood at N1,600 to N1,800 per liter in the last 50 days amid crude oil price volatility.


The implication of the above is the significant rise in the cost of transportation nationwide, food prices, and general cost of living in Nigeria.

Although Nigeria is not the only country affected by the global shocks, the country’s situation is dire, with citizens feeling the government is not doing enough.

Nigeria’s situation is more severe due to its import dependency.


It could be recalled that the Federal Government had a rollout import duty review for 127 items, including rice, sugar, vehicles, and numerous others. However, the policy did not roll back inflation’s impact on Nigerians.

The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, in its policy statement by its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Muda Yusuf, urged the Federal Government to cut import duty on mass transit buses to 5 percent and grant a Value Added Tax waiver.

The International Monetary Fund, relying on economic realities in Nigeria, reversed the country’s Gross Domestic Product growth rate to 4.1 percent, citing increased pressures due to global economic shocks.


In his words at the World Bank/IMF Spring Meeting in the United States, the director of the African Department at the IMF, Abebe Selassie, said, “The immediate effect will be quite a bit of pressure, including on food security, either through the limited availability of fertilizer, expensive fertilizer, or even more immediately, as transportation costs have gone up, it’s going to raise the cost of food and so quite a bit of dislocation.”

Selassie’s statement validates the realities for the majority of Nigerians grappling with the high cost of living.

While NBS inflation data reflects a slight rise, the former president of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, CIBN, Okechukwu Unegbu, had argued that it does not reflect conditions in local markets.

Meanwhile, Minister of Finance, Wale Edun explained that Nigeria’s inflation is triggered by the Iran-United States-Israel war despite Nigeria’s crude oil blend, Bonny Light, exceeding $110–$120 per barrel.

In exclusive separate interviews with DAILY POST, a professor of accounting and finance at Lead City University, Godwin Oyedokun, and the CEO of SD & D Capital Management, Gbolade Idakolo, gave a comprehensive review of Nigerians’ dilemma.

Tinubu’s reforms appear disconnected from everyday experience of Nigerians – Prof Oyedokun

Oyedokun, while speaking, described Nigeria’s latest inflation figures as a worrisome development that reflects mounting pressure on households already battling weak purchasing power.

He said, “Nigeria’s recent inflation figures present a sobering reality that cannot be ignored or oversimplified.”

“The latest data released by the National Bureau of Statistics, showing a rise in headline inflation to 15.38 percent and food inflation to 14.31 percent, signals a renewed upward pressure on prices at a time when many Nigerians had hoped for sustained moderation.”

Highlighting the severity of the situation, he added, “More troubling is not just the increase itself, but the speed at which essential costs, particularly food and transportation, are rising, placing additional strain on households already grappling with fragile purchasing power.”

Oyedokun acknowledged the Federal Government’s explanation linking inflation to global tensions, stating, “The Federal Government, through the Honorable Minister of Finance, has attributed this resurgence largely to external shocks, particularly the geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. There is merit in this position.”

He explained further: “As a largely import-dependent economy with significant exposure to global energy markets, Nigeria is inevitably vulnerable to fluctuations in crude oil prices and international supply chain disruptions.

“Increases in global oil prices often translate directly into higher domestic fuel costs, which then cascade into transportation, production, and ultimately food prices.”

However, he stressed that domestic factors are also at play:

“While external factors provide part of the explanation, they do not tell the full story. The current inflationary trend must also be understood within the context of ongoing domestic economic reforms.”

On policy changes, Oyedokun said, “The removal of fuel subsidies and the liberalization of the foreign exchange market were necessary steps toward fiscal sustainability and economic efficiency.

“Yet, these policies have had immediate inflationary consequences, significantly increasing the cost of energy and weakening the naira, thereby raising the price of imported goods and inputs.”

He described the situation as follows: “What emerges, therefore, is a classic case of cost-push inflation, driven by a combination of global pressures and domestic policy adjustments.”

Raising concerns about implementation, he noted: “The challenge is not whether these reforms are justified—they largely are—but whether they have been adequately sequenced and supported with sufficient social protection measures.”

Oyedokun warned of the burden on citizens, saying: “At present, the evidence suggests that the burden of adjustment is falling disproportionately on ordinary Nigerians, with limited cushioning to mitigate the short-term hardships.”

He also referenced the stance of global financial institutions:

“International institutions such as the IMF and the World Bank have broadly endorsed Nigeria’s reform trajectory, recognizing its potential to restore macroeconomic stability and improve investor confidence.

“Yet, they have also cautioned that these gains are unlikely to translate into immediate improvements in living standards.

“Economic stability at the macro level does not automatically equate to welfare gains at the household level, especially in an environment of rising inflation and stagnant incomes.”

Describing the reality on the ground, Oyedokun said, “For many Nigerians, the reality is stark. Transportation costs have surged, food prices remain elevated, and real incomes continue to erode.”

He added: “The informal sector, which constitutes a significant portion of the economy, is particularly vulnerable, with limited capacity to absorb rising costs.”

The professor concluded with a note of concern: “In this context, the narrative of reform success risks appearing disconnected from everyday experience”, he told DAILY POST.

Reforms only can address hardship in Nigeria – Idakolo

Idakolo, on his part, attributed Nigeria’s latest inflation spike to escalating global tensions and rising logistics costs, warning that more Nigerians are being pushed into poverty.

Speaking in an interview with DAILY POST, he said the increase in headline and food inflation rates to 15.38 percent and 14.31 percent, respectively, is largely driven by external and domestic cost pressures.

“The headline and food inflation surge to 15.38 percent and 14.31 percent can be attributed to the ongoing war between Iran, Israel, and the USA, which has caused an increase in shipping costs and high local logistics costs, as well as transportation costs,” he said.

He explained that the ripple effects of higher shipping and transport costs had worsened the already high cost of living across the country.

“The effect has increased the already high cost of living and has thrown more Nigerians below poverty level,” Idakolo added.

The financial expert stressed that current economic reforms alone were insufficient to cushion the hardship faced by citizens, calling for immediate government intervention.

“These indices have shown that reforms alone cannot ameliorate the hardship Nigerians are currently experiencing, but the federal government needs urgent intervention in areas of transport subsidies and other palliatives that can make an impact before the reforms take root,” he told DAILY POST.

Source: https://dailypost.ng/2026/04/21/economists-react-as-inflation-rise-inflicts-more-pains-on-nigerians

The All Progressives Congress has released its timetable for the 2027 general elections, fixing its presidential primary for May 15 to16,2026

According to the schedule signed by the APC National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Argungu, on Monday, the party will begin the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms at its National Secretariat from April 25 to May 2, 2026, while submission of completed forms will close on May 4.

The APC pegged its presidential form at ₦100m, comprising ₦30m for expression of interest and ₦70m for nomination.

Governorship aspirants are to pay ₦50m, while Senate, House of Representatives and State House of Assembly forms cost ₦20m, ₦10m and ₦6m respectively.

The timetable indicates that screening of aspirants will hold between May 6 and May 8, while screening results will be released on May 11, followed by appeals from May 12 to May 13.


Presidential primaries are scheduled for May 15 and 16, while those for the House of Representatives, Senate, State House of Assembly and governorship will hold on May 18, May 20, May 21 and May 23, respectively.

The party also fixed May 25 for the conclusion of election appeals across all categories.

The schedule shows that all primary elections will be conducted within eight days.

The party, however, granted concessions to female aspirants, youths and persons living with disabilities, who are to pay for only the expression of interest forms and 50 per cent of the nomination fees.

The timetable stated that the schedule was in line with the Constitution, the Electoral Act and the Independent National Electoral Commission guidelines.

Source: https://punchng.com/apc-fixes-primaries-pegs-presidential-form-at #100m

Boko Haram terrorists have released a video warning the Nigerian government not to attempt a forceful rescue of 416 people abducted in Borno State.


In a video, the group said that if their demands are not met within 72 hours, the victims will be moved to unknown locations where they may never be found again.

In a video released on Monday, the terrorists also said they would welcome any attempt by the government to rescue the victims by force, adding that they are ready for confrontation if that option is chosen.


The fighters, seen wearing military camouflage, insisted they are prepared for battle if the government does not meet their demands.

In a message delivered in Hausa and shown in English on screen, the group said, “Today, 19th April 2026, we are issuing a new message to the Borno South Youths Alliance and to the Nigerian government, which we do not recognise as our government. This is our first and final message. We are giving you 72 hours.


“If our demands are not met, we will move these victims, including women and children, to different locations. All of them. You have made your decision, and we have made ours.”

The group did not clearly state its full demands in the video but had reportedly asked for N5bn ransom for the release of the victims.

They also warned, “And take a look at them before we do so, because you may never see them again. If the government believes it can rescue them by force, you are free to try.”


A spokesperson for the group added, “Let this message reach the Borno South Youth Alliance and the Nigerian government. We do not act lightly. This is our message.”

The President of the Borno South Youths Alliance, Samaila Kaigama, confirmed that the group had earlier communicated a N5bn ransom demand during mediation efforts involving the abducted women and children.

In a statement, he said urgent action was needed and appealed to authorities and wealthy Nigerians to help secure the victims’ release.

He called on President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Babagana Zulum, as well as business leaders and philanthropists to intervene quickly.

Source: https://dailypost.ng/2026/04/20/you-may-never-see-them-again-boko-haram-gives-govt-72-hours-over-victims

decasey:
This one well so ? .

It's obvious he's sick.........

Amid the escalating security crisis across Nigeria, the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force are grappling with gross underfunding, particularly in the acquisition of security and defence equipment, according to records from the federal government’s Open Treasury Portal.

Details of the 2025 budget performance posted on the portal showed that of the N20.56bn budgeted by the Nigerian Army for the purchase of security equipment, only N1.46bn, representing 7.11%, was disbursed as of December 31, 2025.

The data for the 2026 monthly budget performance has not been posted on the website managed by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation.


President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while signing the N68.32 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill into law on Friday, extended the implementation of the 2025 budget to June 31, 2026, raising concerns about the government’s continued struggle to fund its expenditures and Nigeria’s mounting debts which hit N159.28trn in December 2025, aside from a fresh $6 billion loan recently approved by the Senate.


Of the N4.52trn total expenditure the army proposed for 2025, N1.17trn or 25.94% was disbursed as of the end of the year. For the Air Force, N238.32bn of its N1.25trn total expenditure was released, representing 19.04%.

The data further showed that of the N336.76bn earmarked for the purchase of defence equipment by the army, N16.71bn was disbursed during the period, representing a paltry 4.96%.

Also, only N5.76bn and N3.89bn were released for the construction/provision of defence equipment and repairs of defence equipment budgeted at N57.59bn and N22.60bn, signifying a budget performance of 10% and 9.07% respectively.

Other critical areas that received low performance include local training, N2bn released out of N18.56bn (10.78%); international training, N2bn disbursed out of N29.80bn (6.71%) and motor vehicle fuel cost, N1.17bn released out of N15.71bn (7.45%).

No amount was released for transport equipment fuel cost with a budget of N21.02bn, aircraft fuel cost budgeted at N12.81bn, promotion, recruitment and appointment worth N384.08 million; construction/provision of military barracks worth N206.97bn and research and development pegged at N100m.

NAF’s aircraft maintenance receives low attention

Records on the Open Treasury portal further revealed that N4.85bn or 13.98% of the N34.71bn budgeted for the maintenance of aircraft, which are central to the NAF’s operations, was released as of December 2025. This is a sharp contrast with N20.27bn disbursed for the running of the presidential air fleet, out of the N20.74bn budgeted, marking 97.76% implementation.

Of the N15.75bn budgeted for the purchase of NAF’s security equipment, N5.25bn was released during the period, representing 33.33%. The purchase of defence equipment suffered a major setback with N19.25bn or 6.45% released out of N298.44bn budgeted.

While the N117.90 budget for the rehabilitation/repairs of defence equipment was implemented by 3.99% (N4.71bn), no amount was released for the construction/provision of defence of equipment budgeted at N7.16bn; welfare packages pegged at N28.33m; construction of military barracks estimated at N95.68m; repairs of military/defence barracks, worth N6.76bn and other transport equipment fuel cost estimated N45.03m.

Other vital items that received little attention during the fiscal year included aircraft fuel cost with a total disbursement of N2.23bn (5.07%) out of N43.91bn; motor vehicle fuel cost, N1.71bn released out of N4,41bn (38.72%) and international training, N2.20bn disbursed out of N17.56bn, representing 12.50%.

However, local training, maintenance of motor vehicle/transport equipment, security services and security votes received considerable implementation at 41.56%, 58.28%, 98.10% and 79.65% respectively.

Efforts made last night to get reactions from the military high command on the budget performance were unsuccessful. Repeated telephone calls to the Director, Defence Information, Brigadier-General Samaila Uba, rang out. He was yet to reply to both text and Whatsapp messages sent to him at the time of filing this report.


Human cost amid poor funding

Experts say the funding gap has undermined the efficiency of the Nigerian military in fighting terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes across the country, especially in the northern region. A report by Beacon Security Intelligence Limited (BSIL) based in Abuja indicated that more than 10,000 people were killed in the country during the budget cycle under review, between January and December 2025.

The security consultant firm revealed that from January 1 to October 31, 2025, 9,514 people were killed across Nigeria. In November that year, it said at least 404 Nigerians were killed, while 363 were abducted. By December, 323 casualties were recorded in the North West and 241 in the North Central, with the North accounting for 91.1% of all recorded fatalities in that period.

In a recent interview with Arise TV, the BSIL Chief Executive Officer, Dr Kabiru Adamu, said the organisation’s latest report showed that over 2,350 Nigerians had been killed and 1,117 abducted in the first quarter of 2026.


Military casualties

A wave of attacks in Borno, Kaduna, Katsina and Benue states during the Easter period claimed 16 lives, including five policemen, and left dozens displaced.

On March 17, at least 25 people were killed in simultaneous explosions at the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), the Monday Market Roundabout and the Post Office in Maiduguri, Borno State.

Daily Trust reports that in the past weeks, Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists have carried out a series of deadly and coordinated attacks on military formations across Borno State, killing soldiers and civilians.

Senior military officers, including Major U. I. Mairiga, who headed the Mayenti base; Commander of Kukawa base and the 101 Brigade, Lt-Col Umar Faruq; Commanding Officer of the 222 Battalion in Konduga, Lt-Col S.I. Iliyasu; Brigade Commander of the 29 Task Force Brigade Headquarters in Benisheikh, Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah and the Commanding Officer of the 242 Battalion, Monguno, Col. I.A. Mohammed, also paid the supreme price.

The military has also intensified operations in high-risk locations, including the Sambisa Forest, the Timbuktu Triangle, the Mandara Mountains and the Lake Chad Basin. Scores of insurgent commanders and fighters had been killed during operations conducted across multiple fronts, with several major terrorist camps also destroyed.

On the back of the resurgence, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) last Wednesday declared that Nigeria’s worsening insecurity has escalated into a “state of war,” calling on the federal government to urgently reorder national priorities and treat security as the country’s most pressing emergency.

The forum warned that Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads, with the escalating violence posing a serious threat to its unity and future.

It urged the government to act with urgency and clarity by mobilising all available resources and demonstrating strong leadership in tackling the crisis.


Security experts worry over military procurement, funding

Dr Adamu told Daily Trust that the implications of the gross underfunding are stark and has an impact on the resurgence in the non-state armed groups. He said the renewed hope agenda of the Tinubu-led administration intends to recruit additional personnel across the security forces, but that goal has not been achieved due to funding.

“I think this is the first time I’m hearing percentages of the budgetary release according to the 2025 budget. Of course if you go back to 2024, you will find out that it has an impact on what is happening at the moment. So the consequences are scaring at us. These groups were able to restructure themselves. They were able to come together again and they are now fighting us even more fiercely than they were doing before. That is very serious,” he said.

The security expert advised that beyond adequate release of funds for the military needs, the procurement process must be sanistised to enhance operational and financial accountability within the system. He added that the National Assembly also needs to up sit up in its oversight function in budgeting and the procurement process.

“I’m part of those people who believe that the war economy has created a conduit through which public funds are being siphoned. We must enhance accountability within the system so that these funds are used for the purposes for which they are used. That means looking at the procurement system. Some of what we hear at the moment is extremely disturbing; political interference in the procurement system of our security forces from people that you don’t even expect; persons who have no business influencing procurement; in the family members of certain highly-placed persons within society.

“So we must do three levels of procurement: immediate concern, for example, our soldiers who are in the battlefront and move around in soft-skin Hiluxes. That is not acceptable. No country would allow its soldiers in the battlefront to be in soft-skin (normal) vehicles which you and I enter. The convention is that military forces in the front line are protected in three types of vehicles: amoured vehicles, MRAPs and others. We must also give them the weapons that they need. And of course their welfare is absolutely important,” he stated.

Dr Adamu identified communication technology as another aspect of the military operations that requires funding, lamenting that security forces communicate via GSM, “which is as vulnerable as shouting in the market where anybody can listen to you.”

“We must address the integrity and confidentiality of communication systems. Lastly is the forward-looking procurement that understands what our threats are in the mmediate and in the future and then we procure weapons in anticipation and to address those threats. Not that we wait until the threat happens and start scurrying around.

“An example is this threat of the use of unarmed aerial vehicles by our enemies. They are currently using unarmed aerial vehicles. They run around from point A to B. We must stop that through an unmanned aerial vehicle system. If you look at what is happening in Iran, Ukraine and Russia, the war is not being done by soldiers on the ground. It is being done by drones. And there is enough evidence to show that the bad guys here in Nigeria have already procured drones. So it is absolutely important that in our procurement systems we anticipate these types of threats and buy weapons to forestall them,” he added.

A security consultant and former Director of the Department of State Services, Mike Ejiofor, said the budget performance of the military revealed a deep concern over funding of security agencies.

“To make a budget is different from budget release. Performance of budget is based on release. When you don’t release funds for the budget proposed, how do you expect performance from security agencies, more so when it borders on security which is our greatest challenge.

“Now, non-state actors are having advantage in terms of arms and ammunition and control. The president travels a lot and we cannot jeopardise his safety, but we need to prioritise our security,” he added.


[b]Ndume laments shortage of ammunition, equipment[/b]1

In a recent interview with journalists in Abuja late March, the Senator representing Borno South Senatorial District, Ali Ndume, complained that the military lacks adequate equipment to fight Boko Haram insurgents.

Reflecting on the Boko Haram attack on Ngose in Borno State, Ndume, who was Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, commended President Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency on security but urged the administration to step up its game in terms of provision of equipment and boosting the morale of the soldiers.

He said, “What happened in Ngoshe is that the military there lacked the adequate equipment and ammunition, MRAPs. That is why they had to do a tactical withdrawal when the terrorists struck and then reassemble and come back to take Ngoshe. So, if they were adequately equipped, they wouldn’t have been dislodged because the Nigerian Army personnel are very gallant; they are strong, determined young people. Some of them gave up their lives in the process as they stood firmly to fight.

“When you run out of ammunition and don’t have where to take cover, we have to tell government to do something about that, and I stand by my position. I worked closely with the army. When I get information related to intelligence, I share it with them, I discuss it with them, and they always act on it. But as for the lack of adequate equipment and arms, it is still insufficient. The government is doing something, but what I’m saying is that it should do more so that the armed forces and other security agencies will be fully equipped to face this problem that we are having.”

Ndume expressed strong belief that the army would overcome insurgency within the shortest possible time if they have the adequate equipment and ammunition.

“But still, as they are now, they don’t have the adequate equipment or ammunition required for a task force battalion. The task force battalion requirement is known. We have enough soldiers now in Ngoshe, but they don’t have enough equipment to face the challenge. I’ve gone there myself. I’ve seen what they have.

“Their morale is still high, but they are being demoralized because they don’t have equipment. If they have the equipment, they are ready. They don’t have MRAPs, they don’t have gun trucks, they don’t have other arms and ammunition required. If they have all these things, these ragtag terrorists cannot face the Nigerian army. Insurgency can be brought to an end if the Nigerian army is well trained, well equipped, well armed, and well motivated,” he added.

The senator also lamented that there is insufficient fighter jets to support the ground troops, saying, “As I’m speaking to you now, we don’t have enough attack helicopters in all the black spots.”

Source: https://dailytrust.com/2025-army-gets-7-disbursement-for-security-equipment

The Federal Government has earmarked N1.371bn in the 2026 appropriation bill for the prosecution of Boko Haram, terrorism and related cases under the Federal Ministry of Justice, representing a sharp increase from the N530m approved for similar cases in 2025.

The PUNCH observed that the 2026 provision was drawn from the Appropriation Bill (Details), as the Budget Office of the Federation had yet to release the detailed breakdown of the 2026 budget recently signed by President Bola Tinubu.

Tinubu, on Friday, signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, approving a total budget of N68.32tn for the fiscal year.

The budget includes N5.41tn for defence and security, reflecting the government’s continued focus on tackling insecurity.

Analysis shows that the security allocation represents about 7.9 per cent of the total N68.32tn budget.

The spending plan also prioritises capital investment, with about half of the budget directed towards infrastructure and development projects.

A comparison of the two fiscal documents for 2025 and 2026 shows that the allocation for the prosecution of terrorists rose by about 159 per cent year-on-year.

In the 2026 proposal, the line item is listed as “BOKO HARAM, TERRORISM AND RELATED CASES” with a provision of N1.371bn, while in the 2025 Appropriation Act, it appeared as “MANAGEMENT OF TERRORISM RELATED CASES/ISSUES” with an allocation of N530m.

Further analysis shows that the terrorism-related provision is taking a larger share of the ministry’s capital spending.

The N1.371bn proposed for 2026 accounts for about 14.1 per cent of the Federal Ministry of Justice headquarters’ total capital expenditure of N9.725bn.

In contrast, the N530m approved in 2025 represented about 7.9 per cent of the headquarters’ capital budget of N6.750bn.

The overall budget for the ministry’s headquarters also increased within the period.

In 2025, the Federal Ministry of Justice headquarters had a total allocation of N19.861bn, comprising N5.611bn for personnel, N7.500bn for overhead, and N6.750bn for capital expenditure.

In the 2026 proposal, the headquarters allocation rose to N23.685bn, with N3.461bn for personnel, N10.500bn for overhead, and N9.725bn for capital spending.



This indicates an increase of about N3.825bn, or roughly 19.3 per cent, in the headquarters’ total budget year-on-year.

A closer look at the capital expenditure components shows that the terrorism-related allocation ranks among the major spending items at the headquarters level in 2026.

Other significant provisions include funding for the repair and renovation of the ministry’s headquarters building and Lagos zonal office, execution of international cases, liability management, and reforms in the criminal justice sector.

The upward revision suggests a shift in priority toward handling terrorism-related prosecutions, which may reflect increasing caseloads, rising operational costs, or the complexity of ongoing trials linked to insurgency and related offences.

Earlier in December 2025, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), urged the judiciary to expedite hearings in cases involving terrorism, human trafficking, kidnapping and other violent crimes, stressing that the judiciary must support national efforts to combat insecurity.

During the ceremony marking the commencement of the Court of Appeal 2025/2026 Legal Year, Fagbemi said, “At this solemn juncture in our national life, it is also impossible to ignore the grave challenge of insecurity that confronts our country. From insurgency and terrorism to banditry, kidnapping and violent crimes, these threats imperil not only the safety of our citizens but also the very fabric of our constitutional democracy.

“The judiciary, as the guardian of justice and the custodian of the rule of law, must lend its weight to national efforts to combat insecurity through firm, consistent and courageous adjudication. The courts can ensure that those who threaten peace and stability are held accountable, that impunity is dismantled, and that the sanctity of human life and property is protected.”

He stressed that the judiciary is more effective when terrorism cases are swiftly heard.

Earlier in April 2026, The PUNCH reported that the Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced five terrorism convicts to various jail terms, including 20 years imprisonment.


The court also remanded another suspect who pleaded not guilty to terrorism charges, as the Federal Government began a fresh phase in the mass trial of 500 suspects.

The PUNCH also recently reported that the Federal Government said it secured 386 convictions out of 508 terrorism-related cases prosecuted at the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court.

Fagbemi (SAN) disclosed this to journalists at the conclusion of the ninth phase of the mass trials.

The AGF added that eight defendants were discharged, two acquitted, while 112 cases were adjourned to the next phase of proceedings.

“In total, we brought about 508 cases. Of these 508, we were able to secure 386 convictions. Eight discharges, two acquittals and 112 adjourned to the next session or phase,” he said.

Fagbemi noted that the next phase of the trial had already been scheduled.

“Don’t forget that this is the ninth phase. The 10th phase will come up between the 15th and the 18th of June by God’s special grace,” he added.

The trial began on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, and ended on Friday, April 10, 2026.

Experts’ reaction

Reacting, a retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Wilson Inalegwu, and security analyst, Chidi Omeje, have called for a more coordinated and transparent approach to terrorism prosecution in Nigeria.

They stressed the need for speedy trials, improved prison security, and better utilisation of funds allocated to the justice system.

Inalegwu said the government must demonstrate seriousness in prosecuting suspected terrorists, warning that delays or weak processes could worsen insecurity.

“I think the government must be serious about the prosecution of these terrorists. Anyone apprehended should be taken to court,” he said, adding that the justice process should not be limited to senior legal practitioners alone.

According to him, the fight against terrorism required a “multifaceted and multilayered” strategy involving the police, judiciary, and correctional services working in sync.

The retired police chief also raised concerns about the state of custodial centres, warning that weak infrastructure could lead to prison breaks and further security threats.

“Even if you prosecute and jail them, there is a need to intensify security at correctional centres. Otherwise, they could be broken into, making the situation more dangerous,” he said.

He urged the government to ensure that funds earmarked for terrorism prosecution are not limited to legal processes but also channelled into strengthening correctional facilities and security agencies.

“There is a need to monitor how this huge amount is allocated and spent. It shouldn’t become a windfall for some individuals,” he added.

On his part, Omeje emphasised the importance of transparency in the allocation of funds for prosecuting terrorism cases, noting that while such spending is necessary, accountability remains key.

“I’m not seeing the breakdown of the amount, so I may not be able to condemn or justify it. But justice is something that must be handled carefully,” he said.

He stressed the urgency of prosecuting suspects, warning that prolonged detention posed risks, including possible prison attacks or escapes.

“We want to see these suspects tried quickly. Keeping them for long in custodial facilities is a risk because of the possibility of prison breaks or attacks,” he said.

Omeje added that while he could not fault the expenditure without details, investing in the justice process is critical to addressing terrorism and ensuring accountability.

Source: https://punchng.com/fg-votes-n1-4bn-for-bharam-terrorists-trial

The Federal Government recorded a N100bn borrowing from unclaimed dividends and dormant bank accounts, as new data from the Debt Management Office showed that funds warehoused under the Unclaimed Funds Trust Fund have been converted into government securities.

Latest figures from the DMO’s domestic debt stock report showed that “UFTF FGN Security” stood at N100bn as of December 31, 2025, representing about 0.12 per cent of the Federal Government’s total domestic debt.

The instrument, which is relatively small compared to conventional borrowings such as FGN bonds and Treasury bills, nonetheless highlights a controversial financing source rooted in private sector funds left unclaimed by investors and bank customers.

The UFTF refers to the Unclaimed Funds Trust Fund, a pool created under the Finance Act 2020 to warehouse idle financial assets. According to the National Debt Management Framework 2023–2027, unclaimed dividends of quoted companies and balances in dormant bank accounts that have remained inactive for at least six years are transferred into the fund.

The document further explained that the Debt Management Office manages the fund in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Securities and Exchange Commission, and that any investment of the fund in Federal Government securities is recognised as part of public debt.

This means that the N100bn recorded under “UFTF FGN Security” reflects funds sourced from unclaimed private assets but deployed by the government as part of its borrowing programme.

The Finance Act 2020 had earlier provided the legal basis for the arrangement, explicitly allowing the Federal Government to utilise the funds.

It stated that, “such unclaimed dividends transferred to the Unclaimed Funds Trust Fund shall be a special debt owed by the Federal Government to the shareholders and shall be available for claim by the shareholder at any time, pursuant to the aforementioned perpetual trust.”

The development comes amid a steady rise in Nigeria’s debt profile, driven largely by persistent fiscal deficits and increasing reliance on domestic borrowing.

Data from the same DMO report showed that total Federal Government domestic debt stood at about N80.49tn as of December 2025, with FGN bonds accounting for the bulk at over 79 per cent, followed by Treasury bills at about 17 per cent.

Despite its small size, the use of unclaimed funds has continued to attract criticism from stakeholders, particularly since the policy was introduced.


The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project earlier asked the Federal Government to drop its plan of borrowing about N895bn from unclaimed dividends and funds in dormant accounts.

In July 2024, The PUNCH reported that the Central Bank of Nigeria directed all banks and other financial institutions to transfer all dormant accounts, unclaimed balances, and other financial assets to its dedicated account


The apex bank made this known in a circular released on Friday and signed by its acting Director of the Financial Policy and Banking Regulation Department, John Onojah.


According to the CBN, all dormant accounts and unclaimed balances with banks for at least 10 years will be warehoused in a dedicated account known as the Unclaimed Balances Trust Fund Pool Account.

The apex bank added that the funds from dormant accounts and unclaimed balances may be invested in Nigerian Treasury Bills and other government securities.

The CBN, however, said the new guidelines, which are a review of the guidelines issued in October 2015, exempted dormant accounts and unclaimed balances under litigation and investigation.

The guideline reads, “CBN shall treat unclaimed balances (dormant accounts and financial assets) as follows: Open and maintain the ‘UBTF Pool Account’, maintain records of the beneficiaries of the unclaimed balances warehoused in the UBTF Pool Account.

“Invest the funds in Nigerian treasury bills (NTBs) and other securities as may be approved by the ‘Unclaimed Balances Management Committee.

“Refund the principal and interest (if any) on the invested funds to the beneficiaries not later than 10 working days from the date of receipt of the request, and where it is imperative to extend the timeline, a notice of extension shall be communicated to the requesting FI stating reasons for the extension.”

The CBN also directed all banks and financial institutions to publicly disclose details of dormant accounts, unclaimed balances, and other financial assets on their official websites.

Source: https://punchng.com/govt-borrows-n100bn-from-unclaimed-dividends-dormant-accounts

Adeboye, Kumuyi, Olukoya are denominational heads, not fathers of Nigerian church, cleric says

Founder of The Word Assembly Churches, Rev. Isaac Omolehin has declared that Christianity in Nigeria lacks a unifying paternal figure, arguing that prominent church leaders are denominational heads rather than fathers of the entire body of Christ.

Omolehin made the declaration in a sermon delivered and uploaded on the official YouTube channel of the church on Wednesday, a clip of which has since gone viral on social media on Saturday.

“I would hear fathers and I ask myself, which father? Nigerian Christianity has no father. Nigerian Christianity has no father. One young man was speaking so intensely recently about our fathers and mentioning that our fathers should speak out. Our fathers should speak out. What is happening? Yeah, I think our fathers should speak out. That Baba Adeboye should speak out.

“He was mentioning fathers. And I was asking myself, are these fathers of Christianity in Nigeria? Without sounding disrespectful? These are denominational leaders. Christianity in Nigeria has no father.

“A father would be somebody who looks after us all. Not just promoting the denominational agenda and the competition of how I’m building one mile auditorium. Then another one is trying to build two miles.

“One has one aircraft, another one wants to have three. The rivalry, the competition has no spiritual content,” he said.

Omolehin acknowledged the stature of General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Enoch Adeboye, but insisted that his influence did not extend beyond his denomination.

“Don’t get me wrong. Baba Adeboye is a very successful, respected man of God. But he’s in Redeemed. Kumuyi is in Deeper Life. Olukoya is in MFM. Does Olukoya know what is happening to a certain brother that is in Seventh-day Adventist? Does Kumuyi know what is happening to a person that is in Jehovah’s Witness? But these are also christains” he said.

The cleric argued that any figure deserving the title of father of Nigerian Christianity must transcend denominational loyalty.

“A person that will be our father cannot be a denominational person. He has to derobe himself of denominational doggedness and denominational extremism. Our father must be the father of all — the father of those who are in Roman Catholic, Methodist, Anglican, Apostolic,” he said.

Omolehin said the absence of such a figure explained why no church leader had spoken authoritatively on issues affecting Christians broadly.

“Right now, Christianity in Nigeria has no father. And that’s why nobody is coming up to say anything. We have denominational fathers. They are not fathers of all.

“They are not father of all. Who will be our father must be the father of those who are in Roman Catholic. Be the father of those who are in Methodist.

“Be the father of those who are in Anglican. Be the father of those who are in Apostolic. Be the father of everybody because we are going to the same heaven,” he said.

He closed his argument with a theological appeal, saying that denominational distinctions would be irrelevant in eternity.

Source: https://punchng.com/adeboye-kumuyi-olukoya-are-denominational-heads-not-fathers-of-nigerian-church-cleric-says

“Christianity in Nigeria has no fathers. One young man was speaking intensely, saying Enoch Adeboye and David Oyedepo should speak out, and I asked myself, are these the fathers of Christianity in Nigeria? These are denominational leaders. Christianity in Nigeria has no father. A… pic.twitter.com/69194nVJ37

— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN) April 18, 2026

🙏🙏🙏🙏

Exceed15:
This is someone who said lately that we should learn to live with terrorists and they are not going anywhere. May God destroy of una together

🙏🙏🙏

Nigeria’s public debt continues to rise, with the latest Debt Management Office figures showing it stood at ₦159.28 trillion as of December 31, 2025—an estimated ₦724,000 burden for every Nigerian citizen.


These numbers are raising urgent questions about how the government will repay the debt, what future administrations may inherit, and how it affects the daily lives of ordinary Nigerians.

On this episode of Nigeria Daily, we examine Nigeria’s growing debt profile, its impact on the economy, and who may ultimately bear the cost.

Source: https://dailytrust.com/nigeria-daily-why-every-nigerian-now-owes-₦724,000

Segzee1:
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has debunked widespread reports claiming that airtime borrowing and data advance services have been banned in Nigeria, describing such claims as false and misleading.

The attention of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has been drawn to a series of newspaper publication and a viral anonymous post in the social media seeking to create the impression that the Commission cancelled, shut down, or banned airtime borrowing and data advance services in Nigeria.

Those claims are incorrect. The Commission has not prohibited airtime borrowing or data advance services, and no directive was issued preventing consumers from accessing lawful telecom value-added services.

Following a deluge of consumer complaints bordering on opaque charges, unexplained deductions, aggressive recovery practices, poor disclosure standards, and inadequate accountability in segments of the digital lending and advance-services market, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission issued the DEON Consumer Lending Regulations in July 2025.

The Regulations were introduced, among other reasons, to curb the excesses of abusive service providers whose practices had generated persistent consumer harm and undermined confidence in the market.

The primary aim is to promote a fairer and more transparent system by mandating proper registration, responsible lending conduct, clear disclosure of fees and terms, accessible consumer complaint channels, data protection safeguards, stronger accountability for third-party partners, and effective regulatory oversight.

In the telecom sector, our findings indicated that some operators engaged in exclusionary third-party technical arrangements in clear disobedience to the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018. The Regulations sought to unlock the market to allow local participants alongside foreign partners, in line with free market principles.

These measures benefit Nigerians by reducing abusive practices, improving transparency, strengthening consumer choice, and encouraging responsible innovation by legitimate operators.

We are aware that some vested interests and their foreign collaborators are opposed to the creation of safe markets and fair competition, therefore resorting to a campaign of disinformation.

Operators are expected to structure their commercial relationships in a manner consistent with Nigerian law. Commercial arrangements or outsourcing decisions do not displace competition and consumer protection obligations.

At the commencement of the framework in July 2025, affected operators were granted an initial 90-day compliance period to regularise their products, structures, and operations.

That opportunity was not utilised within the prescribed timeframe, specifically in the telecom sector. The compliance window was subsequently extended until 5 January 2026, providing additional time for alignment with applicable requirements. Despite that further extension, the necessary compliance steps were still not completed by the relevant operators.

Notwithstanding clear regulatory requirements, some operators chose to maintain the status quo by failing to register and regularise their services. In doing so, they continued operating monopolistic models that had long generated consumer complaints, including concerns relating to transparency, deductions, charges, and accountability.

Any temporary suspension, restriction, or operational change introduced by service providers should therefore be understood as a business or compliance decision by those operators, not a ban imposed by the FCCPC.

It is inaccurate to attribute avoidable disruption to regulation where regulated entities had adequate notice and sufficient opportunity to comply.

Attempts to misrepresent temporary service inconvenience as the result of lawful consumer regulation are mischievous. Nigerians deserve accurate information, not sensational claims.

Consumers and members of the public are advised to disregard false and misleading narratives on this issue…


https://primenaija.com/we-did-not-ban-airtime-borrowing-or-data-advance-services-fccpc/

Noted......

Any temporary suspension, restriction, or operational change introduced by service providers should therefore be understood as a business or compliance decision by those operators, not a ban imposed by the FCCPC.

God bless you!🙏🙏

Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has invoked curses on those behind the abduction of a student of the University of Jos.

He described Nigeria’s worsening kidnapping crisis as a failure of both leadership and strategy.

Gumi’s reaction followed the circulation of a viral video showing the student, identified as John Arum, in captivity, with his abductors demanding a N30 million ransom.

In a strongly worded statement, the cleric condemned the perpetrators, saying they had lost all sense of humanity, while warning that the growing wave of abductions now poses a threat to every Nigerian.

“May Allah destroy any person who helped in creating this situation or participated in any form, or neglected his or her duty in saving the situation, or is even happy about it,” he declared.

The cleric argued that Nigeria’s continued reliance on military force alone has failed to stem the tide of insecurity, insisting that a broader, more strategic response is urgently required.

He said evidence from security experts suggests that force driven operations should only form a fraction of the response, with greater emphasis placed on non kinetic measures such as dialogue, mediation and ideological reorientation.

“Violence only hardens them; in fact, it is what created them in the first place,” Gumi said, warning that excessive use of force could further entrench armed groups.

He cautioned against emotional reactions and “conspiracy driven narratives”, urging both authorities and citizens to focus on practical solutions to the crisis.

“There is no room or time for abuses, sentimental judgment, or conspiracy theories. The danger is real and anybody can be a victim tomorrow,” he added.

Gumi also criticised the “slow pace of response by government institutions”, warning that gaps in action have created room for criminal groups to expand their influence.

According to him, the failure of the state to act decisively has emboldened non-state actors, allowing them to operate as powerful networks capable of instilling fear and exerting pressure on communities.

The cleric, known for his controversial engagement with armed groups in parts of northern Nigeria, maintained that dialogue remains a viable tool in de-escalating violence.

His position has continued to draw mixed reactions.

While critics accuse him of legitimising criminal elements, supporters argue that his interventions have, in some cases, helped secure the release of victims where conventional security efforts have struggled.

The abducted student was reportedly taken while travelling to Kaduna, with the widely circulated footage of his captivity sparking outrage over the conditions in which he was held.

Reacting to the incident, the National Association of Nigerian Students issued a 48 hour ultimatum to the Federal Government and the Plateau State Government to secure his release.

The association warned that failure to act within the timeframe would trigger nationwide protests, raising pressure on authorities to respond swiftly.

Source: https://dailytrust.com/gumi-curses-abductors-of-unijos-graduate

President Bola Tinubu has said his administration is a continuation of that of his predecessor, late Muhammadu Buhari.

Describing the late ex-President as a partner, Tinubu he took over from himself.

Tinubu made the remarks while addressing the 36 state coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors (RHA) during a meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Speaking, Tinubu described Buhari as a partner in leadership, stressing that the transition between both administrations should not be seen as a break but a continuation.

He said, “The truth is I took over from myself. The late Buhari is me; he was a partner. If I took over from him, is that not from myself?”

He acknowledged the challenges facing the country, urging Nigerians and members of the RHA to remain patient and committed to ongoing reforms.

“If something is wrong, fine live with it, correct it, move on. It’s not going to be easy,” Tinubu stated.

The President further assured supporters that the sacrifices being made would yield positive outcomes, expressing confidence in his leadership and vision for the country.

“So many of you that are travelling with me, I can stand before you, you will not regret it,” he added.

The meeting had in attendance top government officials, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, All Progressives Congress, APC, governors, and party leaders.

Source: https://dailypost.ng/2026/04/16/buhari-was-a-partner-i-took-over-from-myself-tinubu

A 63-year-old cleric, Chris Douglas, has been convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment by the Lagos State Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja for raping a church member’s daughter.

Delivering judgment on Thursday, Justice Rahman Oshodi held that Douglas, the General Overseer of Peculiar Generation Assembly Church, Oshodi, abused his position of authority and trust to exploit the victim.

Describing the conduct as a gross breach of trust, the judge said, “The convict occupied a position of spiritual authority and was regarded as a father figure by the victim and her family.”

He added that instead of protecting that trust, the convict “betrayed it in the most reprehensible manner.”

The court held that the abuse occurred in a hotel on several occasions, noting that the victim and her family relied on the cleric for spiritual guidance.

Justice Oshodi further stated that the prosecution proved that the victim suffered severe psychological trauma as a result of the abuse.

“The court accepts the evidence that the victim suffered depression and recurring suicidal thoughts as a direct consequence of the convict’s actions,” he said.

During the trial, the prosecution, led by the Director of Public Prosecution, Dr Babajide Martins, called five witnesses, including the victim, her mother, and a medical doctor.

Medical and documentary exhibits were also tendered in evidence.

The victim told the court that the cleric initially drugged and raped her in September 2017.

“I trusted him like a spiritual father. I never imagined he could do this to me,” she testified.

Her mother also told the court that she confronted the convict after discovering the incident.

“When I went to his church, he cried and said it was the work of the devil. He begged us in front of the elders,” she said.

The complainant said the matter was later reported to a human rights organisation, the police at Makinde Division, and the Mirabel Centre for a medical examination.

The convict, however, denied the allegations and told the court that the relationship was consensual.

But Justice Oshodi rejected the claim, holding that the evidence before the court established rape beyond a reasonable doubt.

“The defence of consent is not supported by the totality of the evidence before the court,” the judge ruled.

The court reviewed both oral and documentary evidence and considered objections raised by the defence under the Evidence Act, 2011.

While some documents were discounted for non-compliance, the court held that the oral testimony of the medical expert, Dr Maria Fadaka, remained admissible.

In his judgment, the court noted that although some alleged incidents were not sufficiently proved to have occurred before January 2018, the prosecution successfully established rape in relation to incidents when the victim was already 18 years old.

The court consequently discharged the convict on six counts of defilement and sexual assault but found him guilty on three counts of rape.

Justice Oshodi sentenced Douglas to life imprisonment on each count, holding that the sentences shall run concurrently.

“The law must protect the vulnerable, and this court will not hesitate to punish abuse of trust in the strongest terms,” the judge said.

The court also ordered that the convict’s name be entered into the Lagos State Sexual Offenders Register.

Source: https://punchng.com/lagos-pastor-bags-life-jail-for-raping-church-members-daughter

MTN Nigeria has suspended its airtime and data advance service known as Xtratime following new regulatory requirements introduced by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.

The telecom operator disclosed the decision in a filing to the Nigerian Exchange Limited on Thursday, saying the suspension was to enable compliance with the FCCPC’s Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025.

The service allows prepaid subscribers to borrow airtime or data and repay on their next recharge.

In the disclosure signed by its company secretary, Uto Ukpanah, MTN said Xtratime falls under the scope of the new regulations, which require additional licensing and compliance procedures for providers of digital credit services.

“MTN Nigeria Communications PLC hereby notifies the Nigerian Exchange Limited and the investing public that the company has temporarily suspended its airtime and data credit advance service (‘Xtratime’),” the company said.

It added that the suspension relates to “the implementation of processes under the Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025, which introduced a new compliance and licensing framework for entities providing digital or non-traditional consumer credit services”.

Despite the suspension, MTN said customers would continue to access other channels for purchasing airtime and data and stressed that the decision is not expected to materially affect earnings.

“Given the scale within the revenue mix, we do not expect the temporary suspension to have a material impact,” the company said, adding that it was monitoring customer behaviour and usage patterns and would provide updates in its first quarter 2026 results.

The FCCPC’s 2025 regulations expand oversight of digital lending to include telecom operators and other providers of short-term credit services.

Under the framework, companies offering airtime and data advances are required to register and obtain approval to continue operations.

The commission had earlier introduced a regulatory framework for digital lending in 2022, but expanded its scope with stricter rules in 2025.

Transitional compliance deadlines have been set, with full registration expected by April 2026.

The tightening of rules reflects growing concerns over consumer debt, data privacy and lending practices in Nigeria’s expanding digital credit sector.

Source: https://punchng.com/mtn-suspends-airtime-data-loans-over-new-fccpc-lending-rules

The House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee, on Thursday, approved a package of financial reliefs and a 10-year debt restructuring plan totalling N248.64bn for three electricity distribution companies — Kano, Jos and Ikeja — in a bid to ease mounting liabilities and stabilise Nigeria’s fragile power market.

The figure comprises N128.60bn in accrued interest on debts spanning 2015 to 2025 and N120.06bn in historical principal obligations.

The resolution followed the adoption of a report by a technical subcommittee set up to review issues raised in the 2021 report of the Auditor-General for the Federation on the rising indebtedness of electricity distribution companies to the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company Plc.

The Chairman of the subcommittee, Mark Obetta, said the recommendations form part of broader legislative efforts to address legacy debts and restore financial stability in the electricity market.

The committee’s findings show that the combined indebtedness of 11 DisCos rose sharply from about N1tn as of December 31, 2024, to N1.3tn by September 25, 2025, driven largely by accumulated interest and persistent payment defaults.

Breakdown of the liabilities indicates that Abuja Electricity Distribution Company owes N275.17bn, Kaduna DisCo N303.81bn, Kano DisCo N96.62bn, Ajaokuta Disco N58.59bn, Jos DisCo N104.38bn and Ikeja DisCo N47.64bn. Others include Ibadan DisCo (N103.41bn), Port Harcourt DisCo (N88.40bn), Benin DisCo (N82.11bn), Enugu DisCo (N39.11bn), Eko DisCo (N16.49bn), and the old and new Yola DisCos with N61.20bn and N241.68bn respectively.

At the heart of the dispute during the hearings was the legitimacy of interest charges imposed on outstanding invoices. Kano, Jos and Ikeja DisCos argued that the prevailing market rules did not expressly provide for such charges.

In response, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission issued a directive in January 2026 stopping NBET from charging interest on unpaid invoices between 2015 and 2020, while permitting interest accrual from 2021 onward. The regulator also directed that any interest tied to delays involving MERISTEM be disregarded.

Following this directive, NBET was asked to recompute the liabilities of affected DisCos, including the disputed N128bn interest component.

The report partly read, “Based on appearance, submissions and requests, the Committee established that Jos and Kano Electricity Distribution Companies remain significantly indebted to NBET. The interest component and accrued debt during the government receivership period form a substantial part of Kano Disco’s liabilities.”

The panel recommended that the three DisCos be allowed to restructure and repay their historical debts over a period not exceeding 10 years.

“NBET and NERC should allow Kano Electricity Distribution Company, Jos Electricity Distribution Company and Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company, with significant legacy obligations to restructure and repay their historical debts totalling N120.06bn (including any obligation accrued during the early stabilisation period) over an extended period of not more than 10 years,” the report stated.


It further recommended that liabilities incurred during periods of government intervention, particularly the N13.40bn linked to Kano DisCo, be transferred to the Nigerian Electricity Liability Management Company.

On interest waivers, the committee said: “That the market regulator, NERC, should issue a directive to NBET to waive all interest accrued in line with the terms of its letter dated January 2026 from 2015-September 2025 totalling N128.58bn for Jos, Kano and Ikeja Disco, representing the new market stabilisation era focused on service-reflective tariffs, massive metering and structural reform.


“This is due to the fact that MERISTEM was introduced as a financial Intermediary to manage liquidity challenges in the sector, including monthly invoice settlements through escrow account arrangements. Moreover, the current structure does not allow DisCos to charge commiserate interest on unpaid invoices to their customers, including Federal and State Government ministries, departments and agencies.

“In addition, these DisCos do not have direct access to their sales collections as the current market settlement system (escrow account) is on a first-line charge to first settle market obligations before operating expenses are released to the DisCos.”

The report added, “All DisCos should ensure strict compliance with their current market obligations going forward to prevent further accumulation of liabilities.”

The Committee Chairman, Bamidele Salam, warned that without decisive restructuring and regulatory discipline, the power distribution segment could remain financially unstable.

Nigeria’s electricity distribution companies have struggled with chronic indebtedness to NBET since the privatisation of the power sector in 2013.

NBET, which acts as the bulk trader, purchases electricity from generation companies and sells to DisCos, effectively serving as a financial buffer in the market.

However, DisCos have consistently fallen short in remitting full payments due to a combination of factors, including high technical and commercial losses, poor metering, tariff shortfalls, and weak revenue collection. The situation has been compounded by government policies that kept tariffs below cost-reflective levels for years, creating a persistent liquidity crisis.

To stabilise the sector, the government introduced several interventions, including payment assurance facilities and the involvement of financial intermediaries such as MERISTEM to manage collections through escrow arrangements. Despite these measures, debts have continued to accumulate, with interest charges significantly inflating liabilities.

The latest intervention by the House Committee is seen as an attempt to reset the financial structure of the distribution segment while aligning it with ongoing reforms aimed at improving efficiency, metering, and cost recovery across the power value chain.

Source: https://punchng.com/reps-okay-n248-64bn-relief-10-year-debt-restructuring-for-kano-jos-ikeja-discos

DeltaBachelor:
What you explained up there may be true, but doesn’t give any excuse for our ineptitude and lack to provide at least 20 hours of light daily and distribute prepaid metre nationwide for accurate billing and not estimated billing. People are really suffering and they keep getting outrageous bills even without seeing the light they are paying for. Or does that same agreement ban us from getting prepaid metres ?

Even someone at the top once said we shouldn’t vote for him if he doesn’t ensure “24 hours of power supply daily”, but now, the music has changed. God help us o

Don't you know the person is a scammer?😆



So why bothering yourself?...........

Lithiumite:
It is a bilateral agreement that Nigeria has to oblige.... so they don't equally dam the river at their own ends......if they do,we won't get sufficient water for our own kainji dam.....thats why there is an agreement to supply them power from here.....infact they are priority based in agreements.......same thing is causing confusion on the nile river as Egypt and Ethiopia are almost at war over the Ethiopian dam project.

May God bless you for this enlightenment





Some people don't research and find out the remote and immediate causes of the issue they will just be vomiting trash.


Thank you my brother, I've known this for a very long time that's why I don't get involved in arguments with some slow poke people. 👍

insidelife22:
Over sucking I suppose
You gerit 😀😀

You better watch your mouth!!!!!!!


You ehn!!!!!!!!!