₦airaland Forum

BREAKING: Ogun State House of Assembly members endorse Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (YAYI) for post of Ogun State Governor in the 2027 Election pic.twitter.com/JjUDkuTEn7

— Aláshelà (@TheYemiKing) March 18, 2026

As Nigeria gears towards the general elections in 2027, the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade has charged the teeming population of youths in Ogun State to actively get involved in politics while formally declaring his support for the gubernatorial ambition of Senator Olamilekan Adeola.

Olopade made the charge on Tuesday in Abeokuta while addressing journalists at the sidelines of a special interfaith religious prayer and declaration of support for the Senator representing Ogun West at the National Assembly, Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi.

Represented by his Special Adviser/Technical Adviser on Strategy and Policy Development, Abiola Odetola, Olopade described the gathering as a definitive signal of the state’s political direction.

“Olopade also aligned the engagement with the broader national vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose leadership he described as forward-thinking and deliberate in its commitment to youth inclusion, capacity development, and generational renewal. He noted that the President’s confidence in young people, reflected in both policy direction and governance approach, has continued to inspire a new wave of political consciousness and participation across the country. According to him, this ideology — anchored on competence, opportunity, and structured empowerment — represents the kind of leadership framework required to drive sustainable progress at both the national and subnational levels.”

“This is a declaration of support for, by the grace of God, the incoming Governor of Ogun State, Senator Olamilekan Adeola Yayi. What you’re seeing here is more than a prayer session. I think what you will call this is progress, a declaration of what is to come in Ogun. This is a show, a display of the confidence young people across the state have in the person that we consider our candidate already even though the process is on. Come 2027, the pendulum is switching towards Ogun West,” Olopade stated.

Charging the youth to get involved not only physically but mentally, he emphasized that young people must be at the center stage with their intellect.

He identified a gap in progression from local participation via rallies to advanced opportunities for governance and leadership at the National level, stressing that this lack of progression may deter future participation.

“If you check over the years, the average age of young people that have been within the governance system in Ogun State and juxtapose that with the number of those who have made it to the National level in governance and leadership, you will understand that there is a need for more of events like this. Where we belong, both as a political group within the APC and of course, where the youth constituency today stand is: What will happen to the future of young people today in Ogun? How do we maintain the continuity of the good things that we have enjoyed under the APC government, led by Governor Dapo Abiodun? What do we need to do from now to show that the youths are ready for Senator Olamilekan Adeola?” Olopade stressed.

The event organized by Yayi Youth Vanguard, with the theme, “Consolidating a Brighter future for Ogun Youth: Inclusiveness in Politics and Governance” had in attendance thousands of youths from the three Senatorial Districts of Ogun State.

Also speaking, the Convener of the group, Olamide Lawal, said the essence of the event is to awaken the political consciousness of young people in the state.

“If you get involved in politics, there are benefits of good governance that you will get. If you don’t get involved, you cannot blame the government. You have to be actively involved to influence any change and to influence developments into your community,” Lawal said.

The Federal Government has begun steps to evacuate Nigerians stranded in parts of the Middle East amid escalating tensions in the region.
Officials say arrangements are being finalised, including administrative processes and funding approvals, to ensure the safe return of affected citizens.

The move follows heightened insecurity triggered by recent missile and drone attacks linked to Iran, which have disrupted travel and raised safety concerns across several Gulf countries. The crisis intensified after coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran in late February.

Speaking on Monday, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, confirmed that preparations are ongoing. He explained that the government is working through necessary procedures while securing funds to commence the evacuation.

Nigerians in countries such as Iran, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Qatar have been affected, with many facing flight cancellations and restricted movement.

Authorities say priority will be given to those in high-risk areas, particularly Iran and Israel, where conditions are more volatile. However, evacuating citizens from Iran poses logistical challenges, including transporting students to the Armenian border and meeting entry requirements.

The government is also exploring multiple evacuation options, including the possible use of Nigerian Air Force aircraft, although security concerns remain a major hurdle.

In Qatar, many stranded Nigerians are transit passengers whose journeys were disrupted. Officials report that airlines are providing assistance, and travel is gradually resuming. Qatar Airways has already restarted flights to Nigeria, including a Doha–Lagos service, raising hopes that affected passengers will return home soon. Some Nigerians have also been moved through flights to Cairo and Nairobi.

Meanwhile, authorities in the United Arab Emirates disclosed that several missiles and drones launched from Iran were intercepted earlier in March. The attacks resulted in casualties, with six people reported dead and over 140 injured, including a Nigerian who has since been treated and discharged.

Amid the crisis, Iran’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Gholamreza Raja, has expressed his country’s readiness to support evacuation efforts. He noted that Iran is cooperating with Nigerian authorities and that its land borders remain open for foreign nationals seeking to exit.

According to him, the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran is actively assisting citizens, many of whom are students or small business operators. He added that the number of Nigerians in Iran is uncertain due to unregistered residents and frequent movement for study and religious activities.

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safe return of all affected Nigerians as evacuation plans continue to unfold.

Several Nigerians were among more than 140 residents reportedly injured following a missile attack launched by Iran on parts of the United Arab Emirates.

Reports indicate that the strikes caused panic and significant disruption in affected areas as emergency services responded to the situation. Authorities confirmed that dozens of people sustained injuries during the incident, including foreign nationals living and working in the UAE.

Among those affected were Nigerians who were caught in the chaos triggered by the missile barrage. Many victims were treated for various degrees of injuries, while emergency responders worked to secure the impacted locations and assist residents.

Officials in the UAE are continuing investigations into the attack while assessing the full extent of the damage and the condition of those injured. Further updates are expected as authorities provide more details about the incident and the nationalities of those affected.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has declared an end to VIP privileges at airport access gates under the reinstated cashless/hybrid payment policy. "We must not do VIP here again because half of our revenue goes to VIP. Everybody is a big man in Abuja, that's the problem. There's hardly anybody you see in Abuja who doesn’t have FG printed on their business card, whether SA, SSA, or SSTTA.

“There is no going back on the cashless system. For those who think they can frustrate the cashless system because they prefer the traditional cash collection method, we have passed that stage. In fact, there is a federal government directive on it saying that no federal agency should ever collect cash. So we have very limited time to do this hybrid system.

“We are going to go cashless. In fact, at the last Federal Executive Council meeting, Mr. President gave me a deadline. He was very clear that I have a deadline. He said, Minister of Aviation, you have a deadline to go fully cashless and the moment Mr. President pushes me, I will also push those under me.

“Before Mr. President sacks me, I will sack other people too. I will sack other people too. Before now, I left implementation fully to FAAN and the nitty-gritties were worked out by FAAN, but as the Minister, I take full responsibility and I have to take full control.

“I would not leave my fate in the hands of any other person and that is why I am here today to take my own fate into my hands and see how they are implementing the hybrid system but this will not last.”

He disclosed this while conducting an on-site evaluation of the hybrid payment system's implementation at the tollgate of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. This comes after President Bola Tinubu decided to halt the cashless policy.

The National Industrial Court sitting in Port Harcourt has ordered the reinstatement of a purportedly dismissed lecturer of Rivers State University, Professor Tamunonimim A. Ngerebo-a.

In her judgment obtained by this newspaper, the presiding judge, Hon. Justice E. I. Kola-Olalere, held that the dismissal of the claimant by Rivers State University did not comply with the institution’s laws and regulations and was therefore unlawful.

Ngerebo-a, who was of the Department of Banking and Finance, Faculty of Management Sciences, was dismissed by the 12th Governing Council of Rivers State University under the then Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Opuenebo Owei.

Professor Ngerebo-a had approached the court in 2019 challenging his dismissal from the university and sought reinstatement.

The court consequently ordered that he be reinstated to the service of Rivers State University with effect from October 10, 2019, and directed the university to pay all his salaries and allowances from that date.

Justice Kola-Olalere further ruled that the outstanding salaries and allowances must be paid within three months.

The judgment also allows Professor Ngerebo-a to be eligible for reassessment for promotion to Professor after serving three years in his reinstated position.

The court made no order as to cost in the judgment.

Meanwhile, the matter has been conclusively closed following the signing of Terms of Settlement between Rivers State University and Professor Ngerebo-a, as confirmed by the immediate past Registrar, Mrs. Ibimonia B. S. Harry, and the current Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi.

When contacted, a highly elated Professor Tamunonimim Ngerebo-a confirmed that “the non-ethnic, digital, proactive, peaceful, humane and progressive Vice Chancellor, acting on the 14th Governing Council of the University, facilitated my reinstatement and restoration of all my rights as Professor. I am indebted to the Governing Council, Vice Chancellor and Management of the University for this kind gesture.

Stakeholders in the maritime sector have raised alarm over the possible impact of the escalating crisis in the Middle East on cargo traffic to Nigerian ports, warning that the situation could disrupt shipping routes and push up import costs.

Shipping companies, freight forwarders and other port users said prolonged conflict in the region could also worsen inflation in Nigeria if it continues to affect global shipping operations.

Speaking on the development, Chairman of the Shipping Association of Nigeria (SAN), Boma Alabi, said the crisis has already started affecting the shipping industry and may continue to drive up operating costs.

According to her, rising insurance premiums and other operational expenses are being triggered by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and growing security threats around the Red Sea and the Suez Canal.

“It has already begun to impact the industry and will likely continue,” she said. “Costs are rising because insurance premiums and other charges have increased due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and heightened security risks around the Red Sea and the Suez Canal.

“Ships now have to travel longer routes to reach Europe, which increases bunker costs, while War Risk Insurance has also been introduced.”

Also commenting, former Vice President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Dr. Kayode Farinto, said France has reportedly declared force majeure in its shipping sector due to the intensifying conflict.

Farinto warned that many shipping lines may soon introduce War Risk Insurance surcharges on cargo bound for Nigeria, which would further raise import costs.

“These additional charges could range between $3,000 and $4,000 per container, and that will have serious implications for an economy like Nigeria’s,” he said.

A maritime consultant, Daniel Odibe, also cautioned that shipping companies may begin prioritising more profitable European routes over West African markets if the conflict persists.

“Shipping firms will naturally prefer routes that generate higher returns. If the war continues, they may divert vessels to European markets where freight rates are more attractive,” he said.

Odibe added that many goods shipped to Europe from China could bypass the Strait of Hormuz by taking alternative routes through South Africa and West Africa.

Meanwhile, some importers said they are already reviewing their business strategies as uncertainty surrounding the Middle East crisis continues to affect global trade and shipping operations.

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday postponed the hearing of a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, against the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and other parties until March 25.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik adjourned the case to enable all parties involved to properly regularise their court processes.

Applesbite International Magazine reports that El-Rufai is seeking N1 billion in damages from the ICPC, the Chief Magistrate of the Magistrate Court of the Federal Capital Territory, the Nigeria Police Force through the Inspector-General of Police, and the Federal Ministry of Justice Nigeria represented by the Attorney-General of the Federation.

During Wednesday’s proceedings, El-Rufai’s lawyer, Ubong Akpan, informed the court that although the matter was scheduled for hearing, the legal team had only recently filed a response to the ICPC’s counter-affidavit and had yet to reply to the police’s submission.

Lawyers representing the ICPC and the police, Abdulsufiano Abubakar and Ezekiel Rimamsomte, respectively, confirmed the development.

Following this, Justice Abdulmalik adjourned the matter to March 25 for hearing and directed that hearing notices be served on the second and fourth respondents — the Chief Magistrate and the Attorney-General of the Federation — who were absent from court.

In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/345/2026, filed on February 20 by senior advocate Oluwole Iyamu, El-Rufai is asking the court to declare that the search of his residence on Mambilla Street, Aso Drive, Abuja, by ICPC operatives and police officers on February 19 violated his constitutional rights.

He argued that the operation breached his rights to dignity, personal liberty, fair hearing, and privacy as guaranteed under Sections 34, 35, 36, and 37 of the Nigerian Constitution.

The former governor also asked the court to rule that any evidence obtained during the search should be declared inadmissible in any legal proceedings against him, on the grounds that it was allegedly obtained through an unlawful warrant.

In addition, El-Rufai is seeking an injunction preventing the respondents from relying on any items seized during the operation and an order compelling the authorities to return all materials taken from his residence along with a full inventory.

He further requested N1 billion as general, exemplary, and aggravated damages.

However, the ICPC, in its counter-affidavit, maintained that the search was carried out legally after receiving a petition against the former governor. The commission stated that its operatives acted on a valid search warrant issued on February 18 and executed the following day between 1:37 p.m. and 3:56 p.m.

According to the agency, the operation was conducted in the presence of El-Rufai’s wife, Hadiza El-Rufai, and his son, Mohammed El-Rufai.

The police also argued that the search was carried out under a lawful court order and that officers followed due procedures while executing the warrant.

They urged the court to dismiss the suit, alleging that the former governor was attempting to use the court process to obstruct ongoing investigations.

The Federal Government spent significantly less on domestic debt service in January 2026, with payments dropping 38.5 percent year-on-year to $405.3 million, down from $659.7 million in the same month of 2025.

Figures from the Central Bank of Nigeria’s International Payment report reveal the trend extended across the full year, with total debt service payments easing 2.95 percent to $7.22 billion in 2025 compared to $7.44 billion in 2024.

The drop is largely traced to reduced obligations on Federal Government Bonds and Nigerian Treasury Bills, the two instruments that account for the largest share of Nigeria’s domestic debt service burden. Lower primary market issuances and tightening yields in the fixed-income market during the period also contributed to the decline.

Despite the fall in servicing costs, the government remained an active borrower. The Debt Management Office raised N5.26 trillion through the FGN bond market in 2025 to plug the federal budget deficit, attracting total investor subscriptions of N8.96 trillion — nearly double the amount raised.

Early 2026 saw continued strong appetite from investors. In January, the DMO surpassed its N900 billion target by a wide margin, mobilising N1.54 trillion through the auction of three FGN bonds.

Nigeria’s total domestic debt stock nonetheless continued to climb, reaching N77.81 trillion as of September 30, 2025, driven by the sustained pace of FGN bond issuances throughout the year.

If you get more revenue because you take out susbsidy, it's actually a transfer from the people to the government. So, the only way we can make it (scarifices that the people make) worthwhile is to spend that money in the areas of priority to them.

- Taiwo Oyedele calls for… pic.twitter.com/391zjnRdBz

— Channels Television (@channelstv) March 11, 2026

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Ufoma Joseph Immanuel, the boss of Intermediate Investment Holdings Limited, before the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, over an alleged $1.5 million investment fraud.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the agency.

Immanuel was arraigned alongside his company, Intermediate Investment Holdings Limited, before Justice Mojisola Dada on a two-count charge bordering on obtaining by false pretence and forgery.

What the agency said
According to the commission, the defendant allegedly induced Adebisi Adebutu of R28 Holdings Limited to invest $1.5 million under the pretext of participating in petroleum-related investments and business development opportunities.

One of the charges reads:

“UFOMA JOSEPH IMMANUEL and INTERMEDIATE INVESTMENT HOLDINGS LIMITED between April 2022 and October 2023 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, induced Adebisi Adebutu of R28 Holdings Limited to deposit the total sum of $1,500,000 as investment described as ‘Cash and or Capital Cost in Chappal Petroleum Development Company Limited; Business Development Cost in Intermediate Investment Holdings Limited; Capital and or Capital Call in Chappal Energies Mauritius Limited’ on the understanding that R28 Holdings Limited will be reimbursed the investment amount, paid a development capital fee of $2,250,000, and allotted 22.4% shares in Intermediate Investment Holdings Limited, which representation you knew to be false.”

Another charge alleges that the defendant forged a document to facilitate the transaction.
It reads:

“UFOMA JOSEPH IMMANUEL, sometime between April 2022 and April 2025 in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, forged a document to wit: TERM SHEET and purporting same to have been executed by Sherrif Oluwo and Olaniran Osotuyi in order to facilitate your obtaining money by inducement from Adebisi Adebutu of R28 Holdings Limited.”

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.

More details
Prosecution counsel Babatunde Sonoiki asked the court to fix a trial date and requested that the defendant be remanded in the custody of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) pending the conclusion of investigations.

During the proceedings, the prosecution also alleged that defence counsel Oluseun Awonuga, SAN, physically assaulted his colleague Emenike Mgbemele during the previous sitting on March 2, 2026, while attempting to serve the defendant with court processes.

Awonuga did not respond to the allegation but informed the court that he had filed a preliminary objection dated January 5, 2026, arguing that the Federal High Court had earlier ordered the EFCC not to arrest the defendant.

The prosecution maintained that the ruling cited by the defence was delivered in a civil case and did not prevent the defendant from being arraigned in a criminal matter.

Justice Dada adjourned the case to May 7, 2026, for ruling and ordered that the defendant be remanded in INTERPOL custody pending the conclusion of investigations, after which he would be moved to a correctional centre pending the hearing of his bail application.

"I couldn't believe it when I was hearing it in real time. ... Congrats to Bam."

KD's reaction to Bam Adebayo scoring 83 points ❤️ pic.twitter.com/b3syWVjTzr

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) March 11, 2026

"It's Wilt, me, then Kobe. Which sounds crazy." 🤣

Bam Adebayo put his name with legends tonight after scoring 83 PTS 🔥 pic.twitter.com/CEQMg52m5s

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) March 11, 2026

BAM ADEBAYO: "To have 83 the first game she's here is very special... the behind-the-scenes, the workouts, the conversations, they're very motivating, and obviously you see what she does... you get inspired by that. I'm thankful to have her in my life."

A'JA WILSON: "I see the… pic.twitter.com/MfrMoSTqjq

— NBA (@NBA) March 11, 2026

Bam Adebayo 83 PTS, 9 REBS, 3 ASTS, 2 STLS, 2 BLKS, 7/22 3PT, 36/43 FT on 20/43 FG vs Wizards

2nd highest scoring game of all time https://t.co/nEfvL6SSaA pic.twitter.com/0SL4areTP0

— NBA Performances (@NBARewinds) March 11, 2026

83 POINTS FOR BAM ADEBAYO.

THE SECOND-MOST EVER.

Wilt: 100
Bam: 83
Kobe: 81 pic.twitter.com/5AxI6j8m35

— NBA (@NBA) March 11, 2026

BAM ADEBAYO TONIGHT:

83 POINTS
9 REBOUNDS
3 ASSISTS
2 BLOCKS
2 STEALS pic.twitter.com/uXfkaCYEYn

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 11, 2026

The National President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Abubakar Garima, has appealed to the Federal Government to lower the cost of crude oil supplied to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in a bid to curb the escalating prices of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, which have now surpassed ₦1,000 per litre in several states.

In an exclusive interview with Nairametrics, Garima attributed the recent price hikes to volatile global oil markets, exacerbated by ongoing tensions in the Middle East, including the United States-Israel conflict involving Iran. These international factors have driven up crude oil prices, making it challenging for the Dangote Refinery to source affordable feedstock, which in turn affects domestic petrol production and distribution.

"Government support for domestic refining could help moderate prices, suggesting that crude supplied to the Dangote Refinery should be offered at more favourable terms rather than strictly at prevailing international market prices," Garima stated.

He emphasized that such an intervention would enable the refinery to reduce its ex-gantry prices, allowing independent marketers to offer cheaper petrol to consumers and stabilize the market.

The call comes amid widespread reports of petrol pump prices climbing to ₦1,070 1,100 per litre in northern Nigeria and ₦1,030 ₦1,050 per litre in the South-West

Depot prices for marketers have also risen to between ₦1,000 and ₦1,010 per litre, compounded by additional costs for transportation and logistics.

This surge follows the Dangote Refinery's recent adjustment of its gantry price by ₦221 within just four days, from ₦874 per litre to ₦995 per litre, leading to retail prices exceeding ₦1,050 per litre nationwide and causing supply shortages in areas like Lagos and Ogun.

Industry experts note that supporting the Dangote RefineryAfrica's largest with subsidized or favorably priced crude could promote energy self-sufficiency and alleviate the economic strain on Nigerians amid rising inflation and fuel costs.

Former Ogun State governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, has proposed the establishment of four additional campuses for Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) following the institution’s recent takeover by the Federal Government.
Daniel disclosed that the proposal had already been submitted to the Federal Government to address land limitations at the university’s main campus in Ijagun, located in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

Speaking during a midterm assessment and constituency tour of Ijebu North East Local Government at Equity Resort in Erunwon, the senator explained that the university currently occupies about 151 hectares of land—far below the roughly 10,000 hectares typically required for a federally owned institution.

According to him, the creation of satellite campuses within a 30-kilometre radius of the main campus would help expand infrastructure and support the university’s long-term development.

He said the proposed campuses include:

A Skill Acquisition Mini-Campus in Okelugbogun, Ijebu North East.

The conversion of Gateway Petroleum Institute in Oni, Ogun Waterside into a satellite campus.

An Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Mini-Campus in the Illishan/Odogbolu area.

A Health Sciences Mini-Campus in Ijebu Ode.

Daniel noted that the initiative would boost educational access and economic development in the region. He also mentioned that the proposal carries symbolic significance, pointing out that the ancestral roots of Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu, are traced to Ijebu North East.

During the event, the senator also provided free medical services to residents and distributed empowerment items including sewing machines, motorcycles, grinding machines, deep freezers and knapsack sprayers to support local businesses.

However, Daniel criticised what he described as hostility from the Ogun State government toward his efforts to facilitate federal projects in the district. He argued that such tensions could slow development and called for greater cooperation between federal and state authorities.

“Our role as lawmakers is to facilitate federal projects to our constituency,” he said. “But once that is done, the awarding and execution of contracts fall under federal agencies. What we need from the state government is cooperation, not unnecessary political disputes.”

He also addressed the controversy surrounding the rehabilitation of Paddy Arikawe Road in Sagamu GRA, a project the state government recently halted over alleged lack of required approvals. Daniel said the road was originally constructed during his tenure as governor more than two decades ago and required urgent repairs.

In response, the Ogun State government, through the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Kayode Akinmade, denied allegations of hostility. He stated that the state only insisted on proper documentation and approvals before any project could proceed.

Akinmade added that the contractor involved had since agreed to comply with the government’s directives and had been permitted to return to the construction site.

Daniel, meanwhile, urged the state government to improve road infrastructure across the local government areas to boost economic growth. He also praised President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and reiterated his support for the administration’s policies.

The senator further called on residents of the Remo and Ijebu areas to unite behind efforts to create an Ijebu-Remo State from the present Ogun State.

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, is set to host a special edition of its impactful quarterly UBA Business Series, which be specifically focused on celebrating and empowering the modern woman with the theme: “gen w - ‘The Evolved Woman’

The session, which is scheduled to hold on Wednesday, March 12, 2026 from 11AM at UBA House, Lagos, will bring together an array of accomplished female leaders and professionals who will share insights, experiences and practical strategies for navigating ambition, leadership and growth in today’s dynamic environment.

The session will also be streamed live across all UBA digital platforms, and interested participants can register to attend virtually or in person via this link: on.ubagroup.com/tfig.

This edition of the Business Series aims to move the conversation around women intensely forward, highlighting a new generation of women who are not simply seeking opportunities but confidently creating them. The discussion will explore how women today are shaping industries, leading businesses, and redefining success on their own terms.

The event will feature an inspiring lineup of speakers, including entrepreneur and founder of ORÍKÌ Group, Joycee Awosika; media personality & entrepreneur, Tomike Adeoye; entrepreneur and founder of Fine Funky, Olufunke Davies; and award-winning Broadcaster, Ayo Mario-Ese. The conversation will be hosted by media personality and actor, Tobi Bakre.

Panelists’ will share their personal journeys and perspectives on navigating professional spaces, building resilient businesses, embracing authenticity and redefining leadership as women in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Speaking ahead of the event, UBA’s Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, explained that the special edition of the Business Series reflects the bank’s firm commitment to supporting women for the critical roles they play in driving economic growth and innovation across Africa.

She said, “The modern African woman is evolving in remarkable ways. She is bold, visionary, and intentional about the spaces she occupies. Through this edition of the UBA Business Series, we want to celebrate women while also creating a platform where meaningful conversations around leadership, ambition and opportunity can take place.”

The quarterly UBA Business Series has become a key knowledge-sharing platform designed to equip entrepreneurs, professionals and business leaders with insights, tools and strategies needed to grow sustainable enterprises as well as navigate the evolving business landscape.

United Bank for Africa is one of the largest employers in the financial sector on the African continent, with 25,000 employees group-wide and serving over 45 million customers globally. Operating in twenty African countries, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA provides retail, commercial and institutional banking services, leading financial inclusion and implementing cutting-edge technology.

The United Nations has sounded the alarm, declaring that not a single country in the world has yet achieved gender equality.

Marking International Women’s Day 2026 on Sunday, the UN cautioned that, at the current pace, it could take centuries for women and girls to enjoy the same rights and protections as men.

In a statement shared on X, the UN highlighted the “urgent and widening justice gap” confronting women globally. “It’s 2026, and as of yet, no country has achieved gender equality. At the current rate of progress, it could take hundreds of years for women and girls to have the same rights and protections as men,” the post read.

The warning is supported by a UN report, Ensuring and Strengthening Access to Justice for All Women and Girls, which found that women globally hold only 64% of the legal rights afforded to men. The report emphasizes that, despite decades of advocacy, women remain unequal under the law in every nation.

The study also revealed alarming trends: more than half of countries lack rape laws based on consent, nearly three in four nations allow child marriage, and 44% of countries have no legislation guaranteeing equal pay for equal work.

“The systems designed to protect women and girls are failing them,” the report stated, noting that laws are increasingly used to restrict freedoms, silence voices, and leave abuse unpunished.

International Women’s Day 2026 focuses on closing this justice gap, spotlighting systemic legal inequalities that continue to hinder women and girls worldwide.

The Sea Empowerment and Research Center (SEREC) has raised concerns over the potential economic and security risks that escalating tensions between the United States and Iran could pose to African maritime nations.

In a statement issued by the centre, SEREC noted that countries across Africa, particularly those heavily dependent on imports, could face serious economic pressures if the geopolitical standoff disrupts global trade routes.

The communiqué, signed by SEREC’s Head of Research, Eugene Nweke, warned that rising global oil prices and shipping costs could trigger higher fuel and food inflation across African economies. According to the centre, the situation may also place additional pressure on local currencies, increasing the likelihood of depreciation.

Nweke explained that prolonged instability between the two countries could lead to volatile oil prices, higher freight charges, and increased war-risk insurance premiums for vessels. These developments, he said, may further intensify global inflationary pressures.

SEREC also cautioned that maritime security could deteriorate if tensions escalate, with shipping routes becoming increasingly unstable. As a result, African nations may need to strengthen naval cooperation and surveillance efforts to protect key trade corridors, especially within the Gulf of Guinea.

To mitigate potential shocks, the centre advised Nigeria and other regional partners to invest oil windfall revenues in economic stabilisation measures and infrastructure development rather than recurrent spending.

It also recommended ensuring consistent crude supply to domestic refineries, boosting maritime security collaboration in the Gulf of Guinea, expanding strategic petroleum reserves, and promoting deeper regional trade integration to reduce reliance on extra-African shipping routes.

The communiqué further stressed that Nigeria’s ability to withstand external economic shocks will depend not only on gains from crude exports but also on sound fiscal discipline, improved domestic refining capacity, diversified trade partnerships, and stronger maritime competitiveness.

SEREC added that without coordinated national policies, the stabilising potential of major refining projects such as the Dangote Refinery could be weakened.

“The US–Iran confrontation goes beyond a geopolitical dispute. It represents a significant stress test for global trade and maritime systems. Nigeria’s resilience will ultimately depend on prudent fiscal management and stronger maritime cooperation,” the statement concluded.

The Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation, Dr. Kayode Opeifa has said that the rail sector is growing rapidly, insisting that derailments are regular occurrences in other parts of the world.

He said this while speaking in an interview with ARISE NEWS on Wednesday, where he discussed the proposed national railway development roadmap.

“Let me say the rail sector is coming up gradually and fast. The responsibility are to facilitate trade, aid growth, and reduce poverty—linking people easily to jobs, linking the manufacturing sector to the markets, the farmers to the market, and improving the logistics and supply chain mechanism for trade.

“Let me say straightaway that derailments are regular occurrences in the rail sector. In February alone, I’m sure in Britain, they will have not less than one. At least there was a major one on February 6th. Around the time we had one, there were derailments—not less than 15—all over the world. It’s a normal occurrence”, he stated.

He added that the NRC swiftly handled the derailments which occurred across several states in Nigeria.

“In the last year, 2025, there were three major derailments: August 26th at Asham in Kaduna, and two on the Warri-Itakpe line—the first at Abraka on November 1st, and on November 8th at Agbor.

Regardless, these are not setbacks per se. These are occurrences that the Nigerian Railway Corporation tackled, and we were able to bring them back. One was brought back within 24 hours; another one took 21 days; another one took 28 days”, he explained.
[/b]
Dr. Opeifa insisted that these derailments are normal, and should not be seen as attacks against Nigerians.

[b]“It is usual—let me say a ‘normal usual crisis.’ What you mean by derailment is when a train moves away from the track. It can be from the switches—mostly from the switches. It can be human error;

it can be a major accident. The one we had was a major accident. The one in Egypt was a major accident. The one in Spain recently was a major accident. We thank God in our own case there were no deaths. The last one in Spain there were 38 deaths. In the one on February 6th in the UK, I think there were two or three deaths. So, that you will not have derailments is not a big deal.

“However, these are accidents that are preventable and you want to do away with. If you have rainfall, weather conditions, glitches on the signal system, or somebody not doing the proper thing—somebody speeding unnecessarily—then you also have aging infrastructure. Like we have. You are not away from derailment. So, derailment is not the major setback”, he clarified.

Addressing allegations of financial mismanagement within the Railway Corporation, the director said:

“I’m not a lawyer, and the little that I know in jurisprudence says that when a matter is in court, it is sub judice. I cannot comment on that. I know we all know that there are matters that should be left to the court. With due respect, I disagree with you. You said there is mismanagement going on—prove it. Mention one.”

Adding, he said issues of mismanagement in the Corporation should be left for appropriate authorities to handle.

“If there are corrupt cases, if there is mismanagement, they are matters to be dealt with by appropriate authorities. My concern is to reposition the Nigerian Railway Corporation, take it to global standard best practice, and ensure the railway works for Nigeria”, he said.

Assuring Nigerians of better railway services, Dr. Opeifa said:

“We are bringing back the lines. We are bringing back the coaches and the locomotives. The locomotives involved in the incident at Asham, the one at Warri and at Agbor, we have retrofitted—they were brought back to life by Nigerian engineers and technicians,.100 %. That is to tell you that the railway is alive. What we are also concerned with, as you mentioned in the beginning, is the roadmap. We are putting together a rail system that works for Nigeria and Nigerians. The Warri-Itakpe is working. The Abuja-Kaduna is working, and by Friday we are moving from two trips to three trips per day with one rake.”

Speaking on the roadmap,

Kayode Opeifa said the NRC is expanding services and plans nationwide rail connections, pending funding.

“You can judge us from what we have been able to do. We have been able to prove that we have the capacity to fix tracks and even to construct tracks. We have been able to prove that we can run trains and create lasting experience from it. Go on the internet, check the preview of the Lagos Ibadan train service, People are saying this matches international standards. We are running entertainment, tourism and experience services.

“Now going forward, we are saying we are connecting every major city in this country with a rail line. The roadmap is there. What is left is funding; what is left is execution. That is the future, that is our focus”, he stated.

Dismissing claims of incomplete projects, Kayode Opeifa said the Nigerian Railway government has not abandoned any rail line, noting that projects are progressing in phases due to funding as they are capital-intensive in nature.

“Now, on the issue of abandoned projects: I am not aware of any project that is currently abandoned. For the record, maybe just for Nigerians to know: the Lagos-Ibadan (which is a phase of the Lagos-Kano project) was completed within three to four years. That’s a record worldwide. Give it to Nigerians; we did that.

“That project is going on; we may not be making so much noise about it. The Kano-Maradi - Dutse, which will link through Daura, Jibia, and Funtua, linking Abuja to Kano and then to Katsina (Daura, Jibia, Funtua and Dutse). Abuja to Kano—will also be completed, scheduled for completion this year. So none of them is undergoing any delay. They are divided into phases, and this is also based on availability of financial resources”, he maintained.

Speaking on Lagos–South-East rail plans, Opeifa said the government is expanding the connections from

Ajaokuta to Abuja and Lekki Port to Onitsha, carrying passengers and cargo.

“We have the central line that runs from Warri to Itakpe, and there is a plan to connect the Warri end to the Warri Port. There is also a plan in 2026 to award the contract to connect the Itakpe end to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). That will automatically connect people from the South-South straight to Abuja. That is the plan, and it is in the budget, to move a line from Lekki Deep Sea Port to Kajola on the left flank to link the Western SG line), and on the Eastern flank, the line will also extend to Benin, Onitsha, and Aba from Lekki Deep Sea Port. When completed, it can be used for both passengers and cargo”, he explained.

He further revealed that Nigeria’s rail system is gradually being modernized, with upgraded signaling and new metro lines progressing toward faster, smarter trains.

“There are many areas we need to improve much more upon. The level of digitalization depends on the gauge and what you did at the level of planning, design and construction. Now, there are different signal levels. I can tell you the signal level of the Abuja Rail Mass Transit (the one by the FCT) compares with what you have in the world; it is the best we have in Nigeria today. And the Lagos-Ibadan service, which was on signal level zero, is now being upgraded to meet the level required to run the Lagos metro line, the Red line.

“The new lines that are coming up, like the metro for Kaduna, the metro for Kano, and the metro in Lagos supported by the federal government, are coming with

a higher level of signaling. What we have had is narrow gauge and standard gauge. We are already at the level of standard gauge, and in few years,

Nigeria’s maritime sector recorded a landmark performance in 2025, driven by surging cargo throughput, rising container traffic, and expanding exports, according to the Nigerian Ports Authority’s (NPA) 2025 Operational Performance Report. Total cargo throughput jumped 24.8 percent, rising from about 103.6 million metric tons in 2024 to over 129.3 million metric tons last year, marking one of the most significant annual increases in the nation’s maritime history.

NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, described the growth as a milestone that strengthens Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and global trade. While imports remain the largest component of cargo traffic at 59.2 percent, exports accounted for 39 percent, reflecting the Federal Government’s push to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on crude oil. Transshipment contributed 1.8 percent of total cargo.

Containerized cargo, a key measure of export trade activity, rose 25.7 percent to surpass 2.1 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs). Exports increased by 3.1 percent, imports surged 32.8 percent, and transshipment containers skyrocketed by 205.8 percent, positioning Nigeria as a growing logistics hub for West and Central Africa.

Lekki Port led national cargo throughput, handling 40.6 percent of total volumes, followed by Onne Port at 19.1 percent and Apapa Port at 16.7 percent. Lekki also received the largest vessels, averaging 55,712 GRT, compared with Onne’s 53,022 GRT. Tin Can Island Port saw the highest frequency of ship calls at 22.7 percent, but Lekki and Onne are increasingly hosting the sector’s largest vessels.

Overall ship calls rose nearly 12 percent to 4,477 vessels. Liquid bulk remained the dominant commodity at 54.7 percent, while containerized cargo accounted for 24 percent. Analysts note that the increasing size and sophistication of vessel traffic reflect a sector aligning more closely with global shipping standards.

The report also emphasized the growing role of transshipment cargo, especially containerized goods destined for other African ports, highlighting Nigeria’s emergence as a regional hub and boosting revenue for the NPA.

“The growth in exports and transshipment underscores the success of reforms aimed at reducing oil dependence while enhancing Nigerian ports’ competitiveness,” maritime analysts said.

Looking ahead, Dantsoho expressed confidence that ongoing port modernization and the National Single Window system will further drive growth. Planned upgrades include berth deepening, quay rehabilitation, expanded cargo-handling capacity, and advanced digital solutions to improve vessel turnaround times, safety, and operational efficiency across Nigeria’s ports.

The 2025 NPA report positions Lekki Port and the broader port network as central to Nigeria’s economic diversification strategy, regional trade prominence, and integration into global supply chains.

Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested five security personnel on bribery charges connected to the controversial attempt to detain former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on February 12, 2026.

The suspects — identified as Ayuba Yakubu of the Nigeria Police, Murtala Inuwa of the DSS, Najeeb Murtala of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and aviation security officers Musa Adamu and Salihu Victor — were apprehended following a joint investigation involving the DSS, NIS, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and the Federal Ministry of Aviation.

According to authorities, the five operatives confessed to accepting bribes in exchange for granting unauthorized access to restricted airport zones, effectively undermining a lawful security operation. They have since been transferred to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for prosecution. Separately, NIS and NCS officers who did not accept bribes but allegedly misused their authority to enable restricted access are expected to face internal disciplinary proceedings.

The arrests stem from a tense standoff that unfolded when El-Rufai landed in Abuja after returning from Cairo, Egypt. His media aide, Muyiwa Adekeye, alleged that operatives approached the former governor immediately after he disembarked, but El-Rufai refused to comply with them, citing the absence of a formal written invitation. Adekeye further alleged that his passport was forcibly taken from an aide during the confrontation.

El-Rufai later confirmed in a television interview that it was the ICPC that had directed the DSS to detain him upon his return. He is currently in ICPC custody after he was initially detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following a voluntary appearance. Investigators are probing alleged financial misconduct during his eight-year tenure as Kaduna governor from 2015 to 2023.

The saga has continued to escalate. On February 19, ICPC operatives searched El-Rufai’s Abuja home — a move he has since challenged in court. The search also sparked a separate controversy after authorities claimed to have recovered wiretapping equipment on the premises, an allegation firmly denied by the former governor’s family.

Adding another layer to the unfolding drama, El-Rufai alleged that someone had tapped the phone of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and that he had listened to a conversation in which Ribadu allegedly ordered his arrest. While acknowledging such surveillance would be illegal, El-Rufai claimed that government agencies had been known to conduct such operations without court authorization.

Tension is mounting in Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency of Oyo State as a group of youths staged a protest opposing what they described as an alleged move by Hon. Akinola Adekunle Alabi to pursue a third term in the House of Representatives,

Alabi, an entrepreneur and author, is currently serving his second term representing Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency in the 10th National Assembly. A ranking member of the House, he presently chairs the House Committee on Works. He is also known as the founder of NairaBET and owner of Lekki United F.C.

Youths Reject “Extended Stay”

During the street protest, demonstrators argued that after completing two terms — totaling eight years — leadership should rotate to allow fresh representation.

Some protesters accused the lawmaker of what they described as insufficient constituency development and limited grassroots engagement. Placards seen during the protest carried messages demanding accountability and transparency in project execution.

Several residents who spoke during the demonstration alleged that visible infrastructure and empowerment initiatives in parts of the constituency fall short of expectations.

Allegations and Counterclaims

In recent months, national discourse has also been stirred by claims regarding increases in lawmakers’ constituency project allocations following the removal of petrol subsidy.

At a media and civil society roundtable organised by the International Press Centre (IPC) in Abuja, House spokesperson Akin Rotimi dismissed such claims as false, attributing them to political actors dissatisfied with previous electoral outcomes.

Separately, comments by Ayodele Asalu had alleged significant increases in constituency project funding. However, official representatives of the House have refuted the claims.

Governance Debate Intensifies

Critics within Egbeda/Ona-Ara argue that leadership must be measured by tangible impact, accessibility, and consistent accountability. They accuse the lawmaker of what they describe as:

Limited responsiveness to constituent concerns

Weak transparency on project implementation

Policy inaction on pressing local needs

Supporters, however, point to Alabi’s legislative experience, committee leadership role, and private sector background as assets that position him for continued relevance in national politics.

The Bigger Question

The unfolding debate reflects a broader national conversation about tenure, performance, and political renewal. As Alabi approaches the end of his second term, the constituency appears divided between continuity and change.

Whether this protest signals a sustained grassroots movement or a momentary political expression remains to be seen. What is clear is that residents are demanding stronger accountability and measurable development outcomes from those elected to represent them.

Protestors stormed the American Embassy in Karachi, Pakistan pic.twitter.com/CHjMbABWjR

— ChrisRay Xălti (@UgWitness) March 1, 2026

The protest erupted following the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint US-Israeli strikes.

At least 10 people have been killed and more than 70 others wounded near a United States consulate in the Pakistani city of Karachi after protests broke out following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli attacks.

Several others were injured as security forces opened fire to scatter hundreds of pro-Iranian protesters trying to storm the consulate early on Sunday morning.

Video footage shared online and verified by Al Jazeera showed a wounded person being transported by bystanders. Other images showed protesters attempting to storm the US consulate building located on the city’s Mai Kolachi Road.

A demonstration is also expected near the diplomatic enclave housing the US embassy in the capital, Islamabad, on Sunday afternoon.

Protests in other countries
Demonstrations over Khamenei’s killing have also broken out elsewhere in the world, including Iraq and Indian-administered Kashmir.

In Baghdad, hundreds of Iraqis, many dressed in black, attempted to storm the compound housing the US embassy on Sunday despite a heavy security deployment.

Ali, a masked protester, told AFP news agency that “the martyrdom of Sayyed Ali Khamenei has hurt us”.

“We are here because we want the withdrawal of the occupying American forces from Iraq,” he said, referring to US-led coalition troops who have recently reduced their presence and are now mostly stationed in northern Iraq.

In the central city of Lahore, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the US consulate, but there were no reports of violence.

Large protests also broke out in other parts of Pakistan. In Gilgit Baltistan, at least seven people were killed, and dozens of others were wounded, the AFP news agency reported, citing rescue official Zaheer Shah.

In the capital, Islamabad, all ‌roads leading to the Red Zone, which houses diplomatic missions, including the US embassy and parliament, were blocked to traffic, police said.

The police fired tear gas when hundreds of protesters tried to march towards the diplomatic enclave, the Reuters news agency said.

Protesters set fire to a United Nations ⁠office building in Pakistan’s northern city of Skardu, ⁠in the Shia-majority Gilgit Baltistan (GB) region, known for its Himalayan peaks popular with tourists.

“A large number of protesters have gathered outside the UN office in GB and ⁠burned down the building,” local government spokesperson Shabbir Mir told Reuters news agency, adding that no casualties had been reported.

“Some of the protesters tried to damage ‌the security gate, hundreds of yards away from the consulate. However, police stopped them without using force,” Aqeel Raza, a witness, told Reuters news agency.

Iraq’s top Shia Muslim cleric, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, urged Iranians to remain united as the government announced a three-day mourning period for Khamenei, who had been Iran’s top political authority since 1989.

In Indian-administered Kashmir, several thousand Shia Muslims joined street demonstrations in the main city of Srinagar, where protesters, holding red, black, and yellow flags, converged on the main square.

Many of them chanted anti-Israel and anti-US slogans during the emotionally charged but largely peaceful gathering.

“This day, we are all very heavy-hearted. We are mourning our beloved leader who was martyred,” Syed Towfeeq, 40, told AFP. “We all have a message for the [US President Donald] Trump… We will always stand against your oppression.”