₦airaland Forum

Nigerian music sensation, Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, has raised a cautionary flag directed squarely at record labels who seem keen on replicating his unique style and molding their artists in his image.


Expressing his concerns, the young artist hinted at a growing trend where certain record labels are attempting to mirror his music style and overall branding through their own artists.


Rema's unease with this phenomenon was evident as he urged these labels to veer away from imitation and embrace originality.


Taking to his preferred platform, Rema conveyed his message succinctly, stating, “Labels get creative, stop trying to clone me.”


This direct plea underscores his desire for a more diverse and innovative music landscape, one where artists are celebrated for their individuality rather than imitating established stars.


Further underscoring his point, Rema highlighted his own contribution to the music industry, particularly with his groundbreaking Afrobeat EPs.


He asserted that since 2019, his work has served as a blueprint for many new artists, inadvertently creating a template from which others have drawn inspiration.


With a hint of playful confidence, he quipped, “Every new Artist since 2019 ate from the same template. Uh oh.”


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/stop-trying-to-clone-me-rema-warns-record-labels/

In a significant crackdown on illicit mining operations, the Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have apprehended four Chinese nationals at an unauthorized mining site in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.


This operation marks a pivotal stride in the ongoing efforts to combat economic sabotage perpetrated by illegal miners.


Babawale Afolabi, the spokesperson for the NSCDC, unveiled the development in a statement issued on a consequential Saturday.


The statement underscored the unwavering commitment of specially trained NSCDC personnel, now designated as Federal Government Mining Marshals, in curbing the nefarious activities undermining the nation's economy.


With a resolute determination, the Mining Marshals mobilized in response to credible intelligence, unveiling an illegal mining site where lithium, a valuable mineral, was being illicitly traded.


The sting operation culminated in the apprehension of four Chinese nationals, who, upon preliminary interrogation, confessed to orchestrating the illicit operation.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/four-chinese-nationals-apprehended-for-illegal-mining-activities-in-nasarawa/

In a revelation that has stirred a mixture of curiosity and concern, Nigerian artist Michael Adebayo Olayinka, widely recognized by his stage name Ruger, openly acknowledged owning two firearms.


The disclosure emerged during a candid conversation about his stage moniker with content creator Timi Agbaje.


Amidst the casual banter, Agbaje probed into the origins of Ruger's chosen name, prompting a frank response.


"It's a gun, man," Ruger stated matter-of-factly, unveiling the association between his artistic persona and the powerful symbol of a firearm.


The exchange took a more intriguing turn as Agbaje pressed further, seeking clarification on Ruger's personal possession of firearms.


"So you have a gun?" Agbaje inquired, to which Ruger confirmed, "Yeah, I do. I have two."


The revelation, while shedding light on Ruger's affinity for firearms, left certain details veiled in ambiguity.


Ruger chose not to divulge whether his ownership of these firearms adhered to legal protocols, leaving the public to speculate on the legality and implications of his possession.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/singer-ruger-confirms-possession-of-two-firearms-in-recent-interview/

In a tragic turn of events, the specter of measles has cast a somber shadow over the communities of Mubi North Local Government Area in Adamawa State, claiming the lives of no fewer than 19 innocent children.


The heart-wrenching toll was revealed by Mr. Felix Tangwami, the Commissioner for Health, who addressed the press in Mubi on a solemn Saturday.


A grim reality confronts the region, with over 200 children falling victim to the suspected complications stemming from the measles outbreak.


Tangwami's words carried the weight of the sorrow that has befallen these communities, underscoring the urgency of the situation.


The outbreak sent shockwaves through Yola, prompting swift action as medical personnel and vital supplies were mobilized to the affected areas.


Tangwami's reassurance echoed amidst the grief-stricken populace, promising that those children battling severe infections would receive the necessary care, with referrals to hospitals for urgent treatment.

Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/measles-complications-claim-lives-19-children-in-adamawa-succumb/

Jurgen Klopp, the manager of Liverpool, has conceded that their chances of clinching the Premier League title rely heavily on the performance of rivals Arsenal and Manchester City, suggesting that they need to experience "bad moments" for Liverpool to capitalize.


Klopp's remarks come in the wake of Liverpool's disappointing 2-0 defeat to Everton on Wednesday night.


Goals from Jarrad Branthwaite and Dominic Calvert-Lewin secured a crucial victory for the Toffees, dealing a blow to Liverpool's aspirations for the title.


With Liverpool now trailing Arsenal by three points and Manchester City by one, albeit with two games in hand for the latter, Klopp addressed questions regarding Liverpool's title prospects.


In response, he admitted, "Arsenal and Manchester City must have a very bad moment."


The defeat to Everton marked a setback for Liverpool, who had hoped to maintain pressure on their rivals at the top of the table.


Klopp expressed regret over his team's performance, stating, "I can only apologize for today to the people. We should have done better but we didn’t."


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/klopp-liverpools-premier-league-title-hopes-hinge-on-arsenal-and-man-citys-form/

Nigerian music sensation, Davido, has asserted his unique musical identity by labeling his genre as Afrofusion.


In a recent appearance on the Business Untitled Podcast, the acclaimed artist emphasized his stance against being pigeonholed into the broad category of Afrobeats, aligning himself with fellow stars like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Fireboy who also resist the label.


Reflecting on the global reception of African music, Davido highlighted the pivotal role played by the United Kingdom in its acceptance outside the continent, noting that the UK was the first to term it Afrobeats before it gained traction in the United States.


Despite the historical association of Afrobeats with the pioneering sound of Fela Kuti, Davido expressed frustration at the indiscriminate application of the label to diverse musical styles emerging from the African continent.

"The UK termed African music Afrobeats," Davido explained, "But now all African songs are termed Afrobeats.

Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/davido-defines-his-music-as-afrofusion-rejects-afrobeats-label/

In a legal saga that continues to unfold, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has brought forth a fresh set of charges against Godwin Emefiele, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).


These charges, filed at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, allege Emefiele's involvement in the unauthorized printing of Naira and other financial irregularities during his tenure.


The EFCC's latest accusation revolves around Emefiele's purported approval of the printing of N684,590,000 at a rate totaling N18.96 billion.


These funds, the commission contends, were printed unlawfully and without due process, constituting a breach of public trust and financial regulations.


According to documents obtained by PUNCH Online, Emefiele is slated to face a new four-count charge before Justice Hamza Muazu.


The charges include accusations of disobeying legal directives, illegal printing of money, abuse of office, and other offenses allegedly committed during his implementation of the naira swap policy under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.


The specifics of the charges detail Emefiele's purported violations of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, including instances where he allegedly approved the printing of significant quantities of Naira notes without the requisite approvals from the Central Bank Board and the President of Nigeria.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/efcc-lodges-fresh-charges-against-godwin-emefiele-alleges-unlawful-printing-of-naira/

The Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) has escalated its pursuit of legal action against two prominent figures in Nigerian politics: former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, and ex-Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika.


Their alleged involvement in misappropriation of public funds has thrust them into the center of a legal maelstrom.


Bello, who stands accused of siphoning approximately N80 billion from the Kogi treasury, finds himself on the EFCC's radar for a litany of charges including money laundering, breach of trust, and misappropriation of funds totaling N80.2 billion.


The EFCC's efforts to bring Bello to justice hit a snag when his residence became the focal point of a dramatic confrontation between law enforcement officers and supporters of the embattled former governor.


Despite attempts to shield Bello from prosecution, including conflicting court orders, the EFCC remains undeterred in its quest for accountability.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/efcc-intensifies-efforts-against-alleged-fraud-yahaya-bello-and-hadi-sirika-in-the-hot-seat/

Amidst swirling allegations of money laundering, contract fraud, and the collapse of the Nigeria Air project, the spotlight has shifted decisively onto former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika.


The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared its intent to bring Sirika to court over these alleged transgressions.


In a recent conversation with Nairametrics, EFCC Spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the agency's resolve to pursue legal action against Sirika.


"He (Sirika) is going to be charged to court, but it may not be immediate...but definitely, he is going to be sued," Oyewale stated.


The possibility of Sirika's arraignment looms large, with indications suggesting it could occur sooner rather than later.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/efcc-set-to-prosecute-former-aviation-minister-sirika-amid-allegations-of-contract-fraud-and-nigeria-air-debacle/

Tragedy struck in the serene town of Birnin Kebbi as a portion of Dukku hill collapsed over the weekend, resulting in the tragic loss of eight young lives belonging to the Almajiri community in the Badariya area.


The incident, shrouded in sorrow and disbelief, unfolded on a quiet Saturday morning, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.


Malam Dan Umma, the head teacher of the local Islamic school, recounted the harrowing events with a heavy heart.


He expressed his anguish at the sudden calamity that befell the Almajiris under his care, revealing that he was jolted awake by the desperate cries of onlookers.


Rushing to the scene, he was met with a scene of horror as he witnessed a large portion of the hill collapse, burying eight young souls beneath its unforgiving weight.


Miraculously, one child was pulled from the rubble, albeit critically injured and currently under medical care in a nearby hospital.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/dukku-hill-collapse-claims-lives-of-8-almajiris-in-kebbi-tragedy/

In a revelation that has stirred political intrigue, former presidential aide Reno Omokri disclosed his pivotal role in recommending Peter Obi as the running mate to Atiku Abubakar during the 2019 presidential election.


Speaking candidly during a podcast interview on Mic On, Omokri shed light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics that shaped the selection process.


Omokri recounted how Atiku approached him for assistance in choosing a suitable running mate, a request he took seriously given the significance of the decision.


Drawing from his political acumen and network, Omokri proposed Peter Obi as a formidable candidate for the role.


He emphasized the depth of his involvement in the selection process, indicating that former President Jonathan corroborated his recommendation of Obi.


However, Omokri's involvement extended beyond mere suggestion; he actively participated in shaping the perception around Obi's candidacy.


By strategically presenting Obi's credentials and qualities in a favorable light, Omokri ensured that his recommendation carried weight in Atiku's final decision.



Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/i-recommended-peter-obi-to-atiku-in-2019-reveals-reno-omokri/

Manchester United's head coach, Erik ten Hag, has issued a stark warning amid uncertainties surrounding his future at the club.


The Dutch tactician hinted at the possibility of his departure by the end of the season if he doesn't receive assurances from new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS.


This revelation, as reported by The Mirror, has ignited speculation and raised concerns among fans and pundits alike.


The Red Devils' current campaign has been fraught with disappointments, marked by a series of setbacks on both domestic and European fronts.


Their premature exit from the Champions League and their dwindling hopes of clinching the Premier League title have left supporters disheartened.


While a glimmer of hope remains with a potential FA Cup triumph, it seems increasingly improbable that United will secure a top-four finish in the league standings.



Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/epl-ten-hag-threatens-to-quit-man-utd-as-clubs-future-hangs-in-balance/

In a bid to tackle the escalating prices of essential commodities, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) conducted an enforcement raid on two supermarkets in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, on Thursday.


Led by the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Adamu Abdullahi, the operation aimed to ensure compliance with regulations on price display and quantity.


Dr. Abdullahi announced plans to extend the enforcement exercise to major cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Kano, Kaduna, and others in the coming weeks.


He emphasized the need to curb abnormal price surges, which have persisted despite recent improvements in the value of the naira.


During the raid, which lasted several hours, the FCCPC sealed a supermarket and seized 33 bags of suspected fake rice infested with weevils.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/fg-enforces-prices-in-abuja-supermarkets-plans-lagos-pharcourt-visits/

Expressing deep concern, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser to the President, highlighted the alarming growth of the illegal firearms market in the North during a speech on Thursday.


Addressing the convocation lecture at Usmanu Danfodiyo University in Sokoto, Ribadu emphasized the severity of the situation, particularly in the North-West, which he described as the most severely affected region by poverty.


Ribadu painted a worrying picture of the illegal arms trade, noting a significant surge in both demand and supply.


Criminal networks and traffickers, he warned, have become increasingly sophisticated in transporting illegal weapons across Nigeria, utilizing innovative methods to evade security measures.


Despite the grim assessment, Ribadu praised President Bola Tinubu's efforts in combating banditry and terrorism.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/booming-illegal-firearms-market-in-north-raises-alarm-says-ribadu/

A popular DJ, Commissioner Wysei, found herself on the wrong side of the law as a court in Lagos State remanded her for alleged assault against Nigerian Police officers.


Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the state command, conveyed this development via a tweet on X, detailing the charges against her.


According to Hundeyin, Iwuagwu Ebere, known professionally as Commissioner DJ Wysei, faces accusations of assaulting police officers, resisting arrest, and obstructing them in the discharge of their duties.


The court ordered her remand in the Kirikiri correctional facility until May 8, 2024.


Additionally, her bouncers, who purportedly aided and abetted her in the alleged assault, were remanded in the Ikoyi correctional facility.


The legal proceedings against Commissioner Wysei come in the wake of a report by SaharaReporters, wherein Benjamin Hundeyin initially confirmed the arrest of Obianuju Catherine Udeh, better known as DJ Switch.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/popular-dj-commissioner-wysei-remanded-for-alleged-assault-on-police-officers/

The ongoing legal saga involving nightlife mogul Okechukwu Paschal, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, has taken a new turn as he vehemently opposes his prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on charges related to naira abuse.


Cubana Chief Priest found himself in EFCC custody on Tuesday before being swiftly arraigned before a Federal High Court in Lagos on a three-count charge linked to alleged naira abuse.


However, as the legal proceedings unfolded within the solemn halls of the court, the defense team representing Cubana Chief Priest, led by counsel Chukosolo Ojukwu, made a resolute stand against the prosecution's efforts.


In a bold assertion of their client's position, Ojukwu raised objections to Cubana Chief Priest's arraignment by the EFCC, citing legal grounds for opposition.


He informed the court of his client's formal application challenging the jurisdiction of the EFCC in initiating the trial. Furthermore, Ojukwu disclosed to the court the submission of a bail application on behalf of Cubana Chief Priest, seeking recourse to freedom pending the resolution of the legal imbroglio.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/cubana-chief-priest-objects-to-efcc-trial-over-alleged-naira-abuse/

Nasiru el-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, reiterated yesterday that the Federal Government has been heavily subsidizing petrol, also known as Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), to the tune of trillions of naira since its inception.


Under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, el-Rufai disclosed that approximately N8 trillion has been expended on petrol subsidies since May 29th, 2023, until the present time.


He argued that without these subsidy payments, the price of petrol would have soared even higher, surpassing the cost of diesel, which currently hovers above N1,000 per litre in some areas, compared to petrol priced between N600 and N750 per litre.


El-Rufai delivered these remarks while presenting the lead paper at a workshop on Enhancing Skills of Government Officials in Policy Implementation and Productive Human Management Resources.

Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/fg-still-subsidising-petrol-in-trillions-of-naira-el-rufai/

The air component of Operation Hadarin Kai (OPHK) carried out a precise airstrike on the hideouts of ISWAP terrorists, resulting in the elimination of over 30 fighters within Kolleram village along the shores of Lake Chad.


AVM Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information at the Nigerian Air Force, announced in a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja that the airstrikes conducted on April 13 delivered a decisive blow against terrorism in the North-East region.


Gabkwet highlighted the operation's significant success, emphasizing that the battle damage assessment conducted post-strike confirmed the neutralization of more than 30 terrorists.


Among the neutralized were several senior commanders of the insurgents, including Ali Dawud, Bakura Fallujah, and Mallam Ari.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/airstrikes-killed-30-terrorist-kingpins-fighters-in-borno-naf/

As inflation tightens its grip, the lower denominations of the Naira currency are losing their purchasing power across major markets.


Gone are the days when a mere N5 could fetch a sachet of pure water or N20 could smooth the path through a police checkpoint.


Recent years have witnessed these once-significant notes struggling to find items they could adequately buy.


A recent market survey conducted by DAILY POST reveals a stark reality: more than half of Nigeria's legal tender is insufficient to make meaningful purchases.


Despite this glaring issue, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) officially recognizes denominations such as 50 kobo, N1, and N2 in coins, along with N5, N10, N20, and N50 printed on polymer materials.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/naira-inflation-bites-harder-rendering-n20-n10-n5-irrelevant/

The air in Kano is thick with apprehension as the government of Abba Kabir Yusuf gears up to arraign Dr. Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Governor of the state, on charges of financial misappropriation.


This looming legal showdown has sparked palpable fear and uncertainty among residents, with some contemplating leaving their homes to avoid potential clashes orchestrated by political thugs.


Last Tuesday, the ruling New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) and the state government filed charges against Ganduje, his wife, and six others at the Kano State High Court.


This move comes in the wake of heightened tensions as the NNPP-led administration initiates both a commission of inquiry and legal proceedings to investigate alleged abuses of power during Ganduje's tenure.


Support for or against the impending litigation has dominated political discourse across local radio stations and social media platforms, punctuated by cautionary tones and veiled threats.


Many residents fear that this political feud could escalate into a full-blown security crisis, given the deep-seated animosity between the opposing factions.


Yakubu Isa, a resident of Hotoro, voiced concerns about the timing of the conflict, emphasizing the need for religious principles to guide governance rather than fueling political vendettas.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/tension-in-kano-as-ganduje-faces-impending-arraignment-on-april-17/

In 2019, Governor Nasir El-Rufai directed Uba Sani, now Governor of Kaduna State, to seek a $350 million loan.


As someone consistently critical of El-Rufai's policies, Shehu Sani found himself at odds with the former governor once more over this loan issue. But was his stance justified?


Before any state can secure a loan, whether foreign or domestic, it must meet certain criteria outlined in the Debt Management Act 2007.


This includes approval from both the House of Representatives and the Senate, a clear plan for loan utilization, repayment strategies, assessment of financial impact, and assurance of transparent fund management.


Foreign loans to states are essentially borrowed from the federation, with the Federal Government acting as a guarantor.
Kaduna State sought a $350 million loan from the World Bank, similar to Ogun State, but failed to convince the National Assembly of its repayment capability.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/kaduna-350m-loan-shehu-sanis-stand-against-crippling-governance/

In the midst of swirling transfer speculations involving football giants like Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain, Pau Cubarsi has reportedly made a firm decision regarding his future, opting to commit to a new long-term contract at Barcelona.


Despite being just 17 years old, Cubarsi's impressive performances have caught the attention of top clubs across Europe.


With Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain expressing interest in acquiring his services, many anticipated a potential departure from Camp Nou.


However, it seems Cubarsi has other plans.
Since his 17th birthday in January, the young centre-back has defied expectations, emerging as a key figure in Barcelona's first-team setup.


With 12 starts and three substitute appearances across various competitions, Cubarsi has showcased his potential to become a cornerstone of the team's defense.


Remarkably, Barcelona has remained unbeaten in every game Cubarsi has featured in since January 31, a testament to his growing influence on the pitch.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/pau-cubarsi-makes-decision-on-barcelona-future-amid-manchester-united-paris-saint-germain-links/

Former Big Brother Naija reality star, Mike Edwards, has unveiled his latest endeavor: a leap into the world of professional boxing.


With anticipation mounting, Edwards took to his social media platform, X, on a Friday to share the exciting news with his legion of fans and followers.


Joining the esteemed ranks of the Cruiserweight division, Edwards disclosed his partnership with Misfits Boxing, a move that signals his serious commitment to the sport.


The announcement sent shockwaves through the boxing community, with enthusiasts eagerly awaiting Edwards' debut bout, slated to be against Jake Cornish, though the date remains shrouded in mystery.


In his official statement, Edwards expressed his enthusiasm, declaring, "Breaking News: Excited to announce my entry into the world of professional boxing! Thrilled to join the Cruiserweight division roster on @MisfitsBoxing."


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/bbnaija-star-mike-edwards-ventures-into-professional-boxing/

In the wake of the recent imprisonment of Idris Olarewaju Okuneye, better known as Bobrisky, for his involvement in naira abuse, NAIJAUPDATE brings forth a comprehensive guide outlining nine practices concerning the handling of naira notes that could potentially lead to legal repercussions.


This elucidation comes in the aftermath of Justice Abimbola Awogboro's sentencing of Bobrisky, a contentious figure known for his cross-dressing persona, with the aim of serving as a deterrent to others who may be inclined towards similar acts of currency abuse and mutilation.


At the heart of these legal considerations lies the Clean Notes Policy instituted by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), a directive aimed at enhancing the visual appeal and durability of the currency circulating within the economy.


As articulated on the apex bank's official website, this policy underscores the importance of maintaining a high standard of quality for naira banknotes to ensure seamless processing and acceptance by the public.


Outlined below are nine actions involving the handling of naira notes that are expressly prohibited by law:
1, Spraying: The act of spraying banknotes at events is deemed illegal and subject to legal consequences.


2, Writing: Any form of writing on banknotes is strictly prohibited by law.


3, Stapling: The practice of stapling banknotes is forbidden due to the potential for corrosion caused by the pins.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/naira-notes-nine-practices-that-could-land-you-in-trouble/

Naira has emerged as the star performer in the currency market for the month of April, riding a remarkable surge against the US Dollar, according to insights from Goldman Sachs.


The financial powerhouse's latest report unveils a bullish forecast, suggesting that the Nigerian currency's upward trajectory may soon see it trading below the milestone of N1,000 per Dollar, signaling potentially significant economic shifts in the near future.


Goldman Sachs economists, in their comprehensive analysis of Nigeria's economic landscape, spotlight the Naira's impressive ascent, citing a staggering 12 percent appreciation against the Dollar in April alone.


This surge builds upon the currency's robust 14 percent rally recorded in the preceding month of March, painting a picture of sustained momentum in the forex markets.


The report underscores the Naira's resilience and market dynamics, highlighting its remarkable journey from previous forecasts to present realities.


In a prescient projection made in March, Goldman Sachs had anticipated the Naira's ascent to N1,200 per Dollar by the year's end.


Remarkably, this prediction materialized sooner than expected, as evidenced by Monday's exchange rates, which saw the Naira trading at N1,230.61 in official markets and a more favorable N1,200 in the parallel market.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/naira-best-performing-currency-in-april/

In a stunning revelation within the confines of a courtroom, the enigmatic figure known as Bobrisky, whose online presence has been a continuous source of controversy, openly acknowledged his biological sex as male before facing the judgment of the law.


The verdict, pronounced by Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos, decreed a six-month imprisonment for Bobrisky, without the possibility of a fine, due to his infractions involving the Nigerian currency, the Naira.


The pivotal moment arrived as the judge inquired about Bobrisky's gender, to which he promptly affirmed, "I am a man."


This admission, marking a departure from the flamboyant persona often portrayed on social media, reverberated through the courtroom, punctuating the gravity of the situation.


Following this acknowledgment, Bobrisky was remanded to serve his sentence at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre, with the commencement date set as March 24, 2024, coinciding with the day of his apprehension.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/i-am-a-man-bobrisky-admits-in-court/

The Association of Bureaux de Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON) has voiced its support for the recent directive issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) instructing banks to cease utilizing domiciliary accounts as collateral for naira loans.


Aminu Gwadabe, the President of ABCON, articulated the association's endorsement of this directive, emphasizing its potential to enhance liquidity in the currency market and fortify the nation's financial reserves.


The CBN's directive, outlined in a circular titled 'The use of foreign-currency-denominated collaterals for naira loans,' mandates Nigerian banks to discontinue the practice of accepting foreign currency deposits as collateral for loans denominated in naira.


Banks have been given a three-month timeline to terminate all such transactions, as stipulated in the circular bearing reference number BSD/DIR/PUB/LAB/017/004, as reported by The PUNCH.


Gwadabe shed light on the ramifications of allowing companies to leverage their non-oil export domiciliary accounts as collateral for naira loans.


Expressing bewilderment, he highlighted instances where firms with substantial balances in their non-oil export domiciliary accounts sourced foreign exchange from the official window and utilized it for naira loans.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/bdcs-back-cbns-directive-stopping-use-of-domiciliary-accounts-as-collateral/

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, recently shed light on a concerning trend in the aviation industry: foreign airlines attempting to muscle out Air Peace from international routes.


Sani revealed that these foreign carriers are employing aggressive pricing strategies to undercut Air Peace, ultimately aiming to monopolize key foreign routes.


According to Sani, the tactics employed by these foreign airlines are clear: relentlessly slashing fares until Air Peace is forced out of the competition.


This move, Sani warns, could lead to a return to the dominance of foreign carriers and their often exorbitant pricing structures.


Taking to social media platform X to express his concerns, Sani called upon fellow Nigerians to throw their support behind local airlines like Air Peace.


He emphasized that by choosing domestic carriers, consumers can effectively counter the efforts of foreign airlines to dominate the market unfairly.


"The reason why foreign airlines are crashing their prices is simply because of Air Peace," Sani asserted in his online post.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/how-airlines-are-trying-to-edge-out-air-peace-from-foreign-routes-shehu-sani/

Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, has escalated her battle against the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) by threatening legal action over alleged defamation.


Represented by her counsel, Chikaosolu Ojukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Edu has demanded a staggering $50 million in compensation from the renowned media organization.


The crux of the matter revolves around a letter penned by Ojukwu and addressed to both the BBC's Abuja and London offices.


The missive accuses the BBC of disseminating false information pertaining to an ongoing investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), particularly alleging that a substantial sum of N30 billion was recovered from the suspended minister.


According to the letter, the purportedly erroneous report has inflicted severe reputational damage, psychological trauma, and anguish upon Edu.


It vehemently rebukes the BBC for what it perceives as a blatant disregard for journalistic integrity and fairness in its coverage of the matter.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/betta-edu-threatens-bbc-with-lawsuit-demands-50m-compensation/

In Adamawa, a recent crackdown by the Adamawa State Police Command has resulted in the arrest of four individuals suspected of engaging in a disturbing spree of cattle rustling and animal abuse.


The apprehended individuals stand accused of a series of egregious acts, including the assault, theft, and fatal harm inflicted upon innocent animals within the communities of Ngbalang and Tigno, nestled within the confines of Numan Local Government Area.


Issuing a statement on Wednesday, the Adamawa State Police Command shed light on the events that led to the arrest of these individuals.


Last Wednesday, April 3, law enforcement operatives, in collaboration with various critical stakeholders, executed a coordinated effort that culminated in the apprehension of the four suspects.


Their charges extend beyond mere accusations of animal abuse; they face allegations of criminal conspiracy and armed robbery, indicative of the gravity of their purported offenses.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/4-arrested-for-cattle-rustling-animal-abuse-in-adamawa/

Ahead of the Eid-el-Fitr celebration, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, has taken proactive steps by deploying over 951 personnel to safeguard worship centers across the state.


This robust deployment aims to ensure the peaceful conduct of the festivities and enhance security measures during the religious observance.


Maku Olatunde, the State Commandant of the NSCDC, disclosed this significant development in Awka on Monday.


Through an operational directive issued to all area commanders, divisional officers, as well as heads of information and tactical units, Olatunde emphasized the imperative of maintaining sufficient security coverage throughout the state during the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.


Highlighting the rationale behind the deployment, Olatunde stressed the need to tighten security measures to thwart the activities of criminals and their associates across Anambra State.


"Proactive and robust anti-crime measures, including deployment of tactical and intelligence assets of the command, are already in place to prevent any untoward incidents in and around the state," he affirmed.


To ensure a seamless Eid-Fitr celebration for Muslims in the state, the NSCDC has strategically mobilized operatives to cover various key locations, including Eid praying grounds, recreational centers, and other public spaces.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/eid-el-fitr-nscdc-deploys-951-personnel-in-anambra/

In a move aimed at bolstering the value of the Naira in the foreign exchange market, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has commenced another round of dollar sales to Bureau De Change (BDC) operators.


This initiative is part of the CBN's ongoing efforts to stabilize and strengthen the Naira against foreign currencies.


Aminu Gwadabe, the National President of the Association of Bureau De Change Operators, confirmed this development on Monday.


According to Gwadabe, the CBN has initiated the sale of $10,000 FX to each eligible BDC at the rate of N1,101 per dollar.


Under the new arrangement, all licensed BDCs are authorized to sell foreign exchange to end-users at a margin not exceeding 1.5 percent above the purchase rate from the CBN.


This means that BDCs are mandated to procure dollars at N1,101 per dollar and sell them at a maximum rate of N1,117.52.


Read More: https://naijaupdate.ng/naira-appreciation-cbn-initiates-dollar-sales-to-bdcs-at-n1101/