₦airaland Forum

This is serious! Is this for real? 212bn is even more than the yearly budget of many countries in Africa.

This is very deep o. See the margin between the salary of Ooni of Ife and Alafin of Oyo. If Alafin of Oyo's position as a First Class King wasn't superior, we wouldn't have been given such salary package. To whom much is given, much is expected. Oyo Empire o kere rara, aji se bi Oyo lan ri...Oyo o le se bi Baba enikan Kan.

Aliko Dangote announced plans to list his $20 billion oil refinery on the stock market to enable widespread ownership.

The listing aims to allow every Nigerian to become a direct owner of the refinery, emphasizing its status as a legacy project.

Dangote expressed that there would be no purchasing limits for shares, allowing investors significant participation in ownership.

The refinery seeks to pay dividends in U.S. dollars to benefit both local and diaspora Nigerians.

The Lagos State Government, through the proposed Lagos State Tenancy and Recovery of Premises Bill 2025 (Draft), has criminalised harassment and illegal evictions, making it an offence for landlords to eject tenants without a valid court order or use self-help measures such as cutting utilities or dismantling parts of a building.

Section 10 of the bill states, “Obligations of the landlord include not disturbing the tenant’s quiet and peaceable enjoyment of the premises, including not removing the roof, cutting off electricity or water supply or doing anything that will interfere with peaceful enjoyment of the demised premises.”

Section 43 of the bill notes, “Subject to the provisions of any law, any person who demolishes, alters, or modifies a building to which this law applies with a view of ejecting a tenant and without an order of the court, or any person who, with a view of disturbing the quiet enjoyment of any tenant, attempts to forcibly eject or forcibly ejects a tenant, threatens or molests a tenant by action or words with a view of ejecting such tenant, or wilfully damages any premises, commits an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine not less than one million naira (N1,000,000.00) or a maximum of six (6) months’ custodial or non-custodial sentence, or both.”

This responds to widespread reports of landlords locking out tenants, breaking into their apartments, or deploying thugs during disputes.

Meanwhile, section 33 allows the court to determine whether a rent increase is justified by considering rent levels in similar areas, evidence presented by both parties, and any special circumstances related to the property.

Importantly, landlords are prohibited from evicting tenants while such cases are ongoing, providing crucial protection in a state where rent is often increased by 50–200 per cent without adequate notice.

It states, “Subject to any agreement to the contrary, an existing tenant may apply to the Court for an order declaring that the increase in rent imposed by the landlord as payable under a tenancy is unreasonable.

"In determining whether an increase in the rent is unreasonable, the Court shall issue a hearing notice to the landlord and shall consider the application on the following grounds: (a) the general level of rents in the locality or a similar locality for comparative analysis; (b) evidence of witnesses of the parties; and (c) any special circumstances relating to the premises in question or any other relevant matter. If satisfied that the increase in the rent is unreasonable, the court, after due consideration, may order that the increase in the rent be changed to a specific amount. Notwithstanding the provisions of any law, it shall be unlawful for a landlord to eject a tenant from any premises pending the determination of the action filed pursuant to subsection (1) of this section.”

The Bill further streamlines dispute resolution, ensures transparency in charges, and reinforces tenants’ rights.

Sections 20–24 introduce faster legal processes for filing and resolving tenancy matters. Cases can now be filed via originating summons, hearings must be scheduled within 14 days, and courts may sit on weekends, public holidays, or virtually. Mediation is capped at 30 days. The bill also enhances transparency in the management of refundable charges. Under Section 12, landlords must provide tenants with an account of how service charges and security deposits are used every six months, and deposits must be refunded except in documented cases of damage. In addition, Section 7 affirms tenants’ rights to privacy, peaceful enjoyment of the property, use of common areas, and compensation for approved improvements.


Josephine Ogundeji
Josephine, a correspondent with The PUNCH has over two years experience covering the building industry and the personal finance ecosystem

Source:
https://punchng.com/lagos-tenancy-bill-mandates-court-orders-for-tenant-evictions/

Meet the most senior Female Police Officer in the Nigeria Police Force, AIG Aishatu Abubakar.


She was born in 1971 Biu, Borno State, but raised in Adamawa, she earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 1994. She joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1995, as an Assistant Superintendent Police officer (ASP) after completing her veterinary studies.

She was the brainbox behind the removal of sections 127 and 126 from the Police Act, which allowed the dismissal of unmarried policewomen who became pregnant while on duty. She holds the National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM), the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), She's also the President of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, the first woman to hold that role since the council’s foundation in 1953. She's also the Queen of the Royal Heart of Gembu’s serene crest, the first woman adorned as Gimbiya in Biu’s proud domain.

What a wonderful career and achievement, Pls wish her well 🙏 👍

Folorunsho Alakija did not study Geology.

​She started as a Secretary. Then she became a Fashion Designer.

Yet, she beat the global oil giants at their own game.

​Most people think she just "got lucky" with an oil license.

But the truth is, she used a strategy called The "Rejected Stone" Advantage.

​Here is what happened:
​
In the 90s, she applied for an oil license.

The powers that be gave her OPL 216.

​They didn't give her this block because they liked her.

They gave it to her because nobody else wanted it.

It was "Deep Offshore" (Deep Water).

At that time, the technology to drill that deep was expensive and risky.

The big companies (Shell, Mobil) wanted the easy, shallow water.

​They thought they gave her a "useless" paper.

She saw a "Golden Ticket."

She knew she didn't have the billions to drill.

But she had the Rights.

She approached Texaco (now Chevron).

She told them: "I have the access. You have the technology. Let's work."

​She didn't try to dig with her hands. She used her "Paper" as equity to attract a giant.

This is the most important lesson.

When they finally struck oil (the massive Agbami Field), the Government was shocked at the volume.

They got jealous.

The Government tried to use a decree to forcefully take back 50% of her stake.

​Most people would have bowed to the Federal Government out of fear.

Alakija sued them.

​She fought the Federal Government in court for 12 years.

She refused to settle. She refused to be bullied.

Eventually, the Supreme Court ruled in her favor, restoring her full stake.

​Why am I telling you this?

​Don't despise the "Hard" road:

Just because an opportunity looks difficult (Deep Water) doesn't mean it's bad.

That is often where the biggest treasure is hidden.

​Defend your Value: In business, creating wealth is one thing.

Keeping it is the real war.

You must have the audacity to fight for what is yours, even if you are fighting a Giant.

​She went from sewing clothes to owning one of the most prolific oil blocks in Africa.

Not by luck. But by Grit.

​Nairalanders! I hope you learnt something today.

If you are there, you are there. If you are not there, you are not there. There is nothing like, it seems like you are there.

DanielJones:
Several things can cause issues between married couples...it could be anything apart from infidelity. The truth is that you were not born or raised by the same parent and you didn't come from the same background. What matters is how you manage the differences and how you can tolerate each other.

You are right...we don't just have to jump to conclusion.

What stupid thing have you ever done for your crush for the sake of love? Share your experience. I saw someone's experience and it is very funny 🤣🤣🤣...guys, can you easily relate with this experience attached below?


Nigerian man recounts how adding his ex-girlfriend to his HMO plan 'as wife' has turned into a long-term financial burden, years after their breakup — even after she got married and welcomed a child🤦🏽‍♂️💔

According to him, she still uses the free healthcare benefits, and removing her now could put his job at risk.

I did for love… I added her (my ex) to my HMO plan as my wife, ever since she has been using free healthcare since we broke up, now she is married.

Last month she gave birth with CS procedures and it was totally free on my HMO plan, i risk losing my job if i tell them to remove her.

Sadly, she keeps using it and her stupid husband let her.

PerfectView:
I have been looking for something like this. I was using Mysterium VPN but I wasn't getting what I wanted with my 43k monthly subscription. I hope this is affordable.

Sure, it is. You can try one of the service providers to confirm the current price.

Innocent Chukwuma (Innoson) Became A Billionaire With Simple Mathematics.



​Most people think he made his money just by "building cars."

But his real secret is something called Unit Economics.

​He beat every competitor in the market not because his product was better, but because his process was smarter.

​Here is the "Real Thing" that happened:

​In the 80s, every businessman in Nnewi was importing motorcycles from Japan and China.

They imported them "Whole" (fully assembled).

Because a motorcycle is bulky, a 40ft container could only hold about 40 motorcycles.

​This made the landing cost very high.

​Innocent Chukwuma looked at this and asked:

"Why are we shipping air?"

​He realized that if he disassembled the motorcycles and stacked the parts (tires with tires, frames with frames), the same container could hold 200 motorcycles.

​This single calculation changed everything.

​His competitors paid shipping for 40 units.

​He paid the same shipping for 200 units.

​His cost per unit dropped drastically.

While competitors were selling motorcycles for N150,000, Innoson started selling for N80,000, and he was still making a profit.

​He didn't need to fight them. His math forced them out of business.

​Once he started assembling bikes locally, he realized he was buying a lot of plastic parts from outside.

Again, he did the math.

"Why import plastic when I can melt it here?"

​He opened a plastics factory to feed his motorcycle assembly.

That same plastics factory later allowed him to start making car dashboards and bumpers.

​He didn't wake up and build a car plant.

He built the components first, then the car followed.
​Why am I telling you this?

​Many small business owners are losing money because they are "Shipping Air."

​You are importing bulky bottles instead of the raw liquid.

​You are buying from a middleman who buys from a middleman.

​You are wasting space in your delivery truck.

​Innoson teaches us that the profit is often hidden in the Logistics.

If you can figure out how to move your product cheaper than your neighbor, you have already won.

​Don't just look at the selling price. Look at the Packing Process.

​I hope you learned something.

The former president of Nigeria, General Olusegun Obasanjo, came to my house with all the fully armed security agents you can think of. My family was in serious panicking mood.

After the meal, he washed his hands and brought out a letter asking me to read and sign.

As I was reading, I saw it was my Resignation Letter as the PDP Chairman written by Obasanjo himself, a drop of water fell from my eyes, as I looked up, the security guards moved closer, I requested to go inside and get a pen, Obasanjo instantly brought out a pen from his pocket, 'this is pen sign it immediately".

I signed and he told me 'Chairman, you know that for what you said today, you shouldn't be my Chairman again..."

I remained dumb until he left.

Thirty minutes after, he came again, I thought they wanted to kill me, I went to meet him outside, he brought out the letter and said 'you didn't put date there, oya write today's date below your signature'. I did and he left.

It was a traumatic night for me and my family."

- Audu Ogbe

See the clear resemblance with Senator Ned Nwoko...

Here is the latest feedback...it has been declared that KWAM 1 has no link to the Jadiara family after investigations.

Here is the latest feedback...it has been declared that KWAM 1 has no link to the Jadiara family after investigations.

DanielJones:
It is just co-incidental that the person you wrote about is my uncle. Half of what you wrote about him is not true.... For instance, Uncle Etim Esin is not living quietly in Akwa Ibom state. He now lives in Lekki (quietly in his house there). He also has houses in Surulere and other parts of lagos... While the write-up about the armed robbers' incident is just 70% correct, the incident about rape is false. You need to understand his perspective.He did not rape anyone, I spoke with him about this incident myself, and the narrative he gave is quite different - it was a case of frame up. Uncle Etim John Esin that I know in person is not regretting anything... I can tell you that for free.

I know that we have several Ex-Super Eagles players on this platform too, probably reading this post. We need to celebrate our heroes. My uncle is a Living Legend, let's celebrate him while he is still alive.

Hmmm...it is a small world. I also agree that it wasn't a case of rape because it was a popular stigmatization for any promising or successful black person among the Whites in those days.

UnbiasTruth:
Give what belongs to Tradition to Tradition and give what belongs to Religion to Religion. There is no culture or tradition without a ritual. The so called Western Civilised tradition still keeps its ritual, a very vivid case to cite was the ritual publicly performed in England when Queen Elizabeth died. Mind you, we were only made to see the ritual performed in public, there were some rituals not publicized. The word ritual itself is neural...check your dictionary for the meaning. It is only in Nigeria that we always attribute rituals to evil, demons, blood shed and all.

"Ritual refers to a ceremony or action performed in a specific way, often for religious or cultural reasons. It can also describe a routine or habit done regularly, often with symbolic meaning. In different contexts, ritual can mean:

- A religious or spiritual ceremony
- A traditional or cultural practice
- A repeated behavior or routine
- A set of actions performed in a specific order

Examples:
- "The ritual of tea-making is an important part of Japanese culture."
- "The team's pre-game ritual is to sing their anthem together."

So, why do we have to modernize our culture when those who claimed to bring civilization to us didn't even modernize theirs. Did you know what happened behind the closed doors when Queen Elizabeth was buried? I'm sure you didn't. So, because you a little about how your king is crowned now, you think you can advocate for modernization?

There will be a serious problem if we allow religion to take the place of tradition. Let us forget that before religion, there was tradition. Those who brought religion to us were not our helpers, they came to exploit and manipulate us, they killed our fore fathers, robbed us of our core resources and forced themselves on us...then they gave us a "Holy Book" to give us a falsified hope in a hereafter and preach forgiveness to us because they know that when we realize what they have done to us, we may want to retaliate.

Nigeria!

Never forget your identity!

Never forget your tradition!

Never forget yourself!

You are right. I agree with your points 💯. We are who we are.

The Story of Etim Esin – The Star Who Destroyed Himself

Etim “African Maradona” Esin was a footballer whose raw talent shook Nigeria. Long before social media, stadiums filled to capacity across the country just to watch him play. Many even believed he was more skillful and better than Austin JJ Okocha.

He dazzled for Calabar Rovers and earned a place in Nigeria’s squad for the FIFA U-20 World Cup.

But on a fateful night in camp, he broke curfew to go clubbing in Surulere, Lagos. On his way back, armed robbers attacked him and shot him in the thigh. His World Cup dreams—and his rising career—collapsed instantly.

Yet, despite his condition, the NFF treated him and still took him to the tournament half-fit, something unheard of in professional football.

It was said the same robbers returned to apologize, saying they didn’t know he was Etim Esin.

Although Nigeria performed poorly, his talent was undeniable. He was called up to the Super Eagles and secured a professional contract in Belgium. The national team was even being built around him.

Not long after arriving in Europe, Stephen Keshi—then a senior player—warned him about the danger of getting involved with foreign women, as false rape allegations against Black players were common.

But Etim did not listen. Soon, he was accused of raping a minor, a scandal so serious that he fled Belgium to avoid prison, abandoning his contract and his European future.

The allegation shut the doors of the Super Eagles and Europe forever. He couldnot go to USA'94 World Cup.

He returned to the Nigerian league, but his career never recovered. His fall created the space for Austin JJ Okocha to rise and become a legend.

Twenty-five years later, the allegation of rape was finally proven to be false. But the damages had already been done, his career and future destroyed forever.

Today, Etim Esin lives quietly in Akwa Ibom State, largely forgotten by Nigerian football. And I know that sometimes, as he sits alone, he must be wondering “What If? " What Could Have Been?”

Reflection: Indiscipline has destroyed many stars. Etim Esin remains one of the clearest examples of a destiny that slipped away.

Any time I remember the story of Pastor Akolade Arowolo, the RCCG Youth Pastor Sentenced To Death, my heart breaks as I reflect on how what used to be a lovely and Godly relationship that lead to marriage could later end in doom. I decided to bring this story here so that we can also learn from the mistakes of the deceased couple.

Few years ago, a youth pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Akolade Arowolo was sentenced to die by hanging for the murder of his banker wife, Titilayo.

Pastor Arowolo could not hold back his pains after the court ruling, he burst into a fit of prayer. Titilayo worked with Skye bank, whilst her husband was unemployed. Prosecutors were able to present compelling evidence that led to the conviction of Mr Arowolo and his sentencing by Justice Lateefat Okunu of the Ikeja High Court, he was handed a death sentence. Justice Okunu held in her over three hours judgment that evidence before the court proved that Arowolo actually murdered his wife in their matrimonial home.

Testimony in the form of a forensic report from Prof. John Oladapo Obafunwa, a pathologist, was what the court used to determine that there was no way the deceased could have stabbed herself to death. Immediately after the judgment, Arowolo fell down in the dock and started shouting “Jesus have mercy.” PM News reports that Prof Obafunwa testified that his autopsy report revealed that Titilayo was killed through 76 knife stab wounds.

There were claims by Pastor Arowolo, suggesting that his wife was possessed and inflicted injuries on herself. He noted that the knife wounds affected Titilayo’s left eye, right eye, upper chest area, right chest and collar bone. Prof. Obafunwa pointed out in his testimony that the deceased could not have inflicted such wounds on herself. To further prove its case, prosecution invited some of Titilayo’s family members who testified that Arowolo and Titilayo had always had a troubled marriage.

The family members included Titilayo’s father, George Oyakhire; sister, Ijeh and mother-in-law, Mrs Adetoun Yeside Oyakhire. The three witnesses testified that the couple lived a cat and mouse life. They claimed that the family had at several times, settled serious fights between the couple. None of the witnesses however saw what actually happened on the day Titilayo died

The Herald reports that Arowolo’s co-tenant, Adewale Adeyemi also gave evidence in the case. Arowolo’s parents testified that their son was incapable of murder

Adeyemi in his evidence said that on the day of the incident he heard a loud noise when he was in his apartment and later saw Arowolo rushing out with a deep cut in his palms. He claimed to have also seen a hammer and a knife with a broken handle in the yard. Other witnesses such a the security man at the Arowolos’ residence, Investigating Police Officer and an MTN Staff also gave evidence in the case.

Youth PastorArowolo broke down in tears, after the judge handed him the death sentence, he had claimed he was innocent of killing his wife. Having presented its case, the burden was shifted on Arowolo to defend himself.

Expectedly, Arowolo had his personal explanation as to what happened on the day Titilayo died. First, he claimed that he and his deceased wife had passionate sex for two hours and kissed on the same day she died.

He claimed that Titi stabbed herself to death on the day after they had a fight. Arowolo claimed that Titilayo was possessed by an evil spirit and inflicted several stab wounds on him before turning to herself. Arowolo’s father, Mudashiru and mother also testified of their son’s good behavior, insisting he could not have killed his wife.

They claimed that he has always been a religious person and was incapable of killing.”

Reflection: What can people say about your relationship or marriage with your partner now? What can you say about it too? Are you still keeping it real as you initially started the journey or are you just tolerating your partner? May God bless our marriage and may it end well.

lawani:
Biafra means you have a country you can do anything with. You decide the policies, control the central bank and own the resources. You also use your language as official and you are better able to preserve your identity and project yourself to the world. It does not mean all of you have to live there. There is no country where all the citizens live there

You are right...I guess that the points of concern of the OP are centered on the unity of the people advocating for Biafra. They need to all start from somewhere...they can all pass a compelling message if majority of them choose to develop their territory in a way that other regions would feel that they are truly ready to stand on their own. Instead of killing themselves, halting business activities, destroying their natural resources just because they want to pass a message, they should start thinking about it in a positive way. If there would ever be a territory called Biafra tomorrow, it will not be on a special location, soil or territory other than where their forefathers chose as their dwelling place. So, why destroy your home before you can prove to your parents that you are grown enough live on your own?

Maryam Babangida, born Maria Ndidi Okogwu on November first 1948, remains one of the most influential women in Nigeria’s modern history. She was the wife of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, who ruled Nigeria as head of state from 1985 to 1993. Although her husband’s government attracted heavy criticism over corruption and controversial economic reforms, Maryam carved her own identity as a trailblazer who redefined the role of a First Lady in Nigeria.

Maryam was born in Asaba, now in Delta State, to a culturally rich and diverse family. Her mother, Hajiya Asabe Halima Mohammed, was from present day Niger State and Hausa by origin. Her father, Leonard Nwanonye Okogwu, was from Asaba and Igbo by ethnicity. This unique blend of northern and southern roots shaped her worldview and helped her relate easily with people across Nigeria.

She began her early schooling in Asaba before moving to the north where she attended Queen Amina College in Kaduna. After secondary school, she trained as a secretary at the Federal Training Centre in Kaduna. Her thirst for knowledge continued, and she later obtained a diploma in secretarial studies from La Salle Extension University in Chicago and also earned a Certificate in Computer Science from the NCR Institute in Lagos.

Maryam married Major Ibrahim Babangida on September sixth 1969, shortly before she turned twenty one. Their union produced four children named Mohammed, Aminu, Aisha and Halima. As her husband rose through the military hierarchy, she also became active in social work. When he became Chief of Army Staff in 1983, she served as President of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association where she established schools, clinics, daycare centres and vocational centres for the families of military personnel.

Maryam loved gardening, interior decoration, music, squash, badminton and philanthropic activities. She was also known to collect birds and often spoke about how reading shaped her understanding of society.

When General Babangida became head of state in 1985, the family moved into Dodan Barracks in Lagos. Maryam transformed the residence to suit official functions and state ceremonies. In April 1990, Dodan Barracks was one of the main targets during the coup attempt led by Major Gideon Orkar. General Babangida was inside the barracks when the attack occurred but managed to escape through a back route. The incident became a significant moment in their lives.

As First Lady from 1985 to 1993, Maryam brought unmatched visibility and influence to the office. She pioneered the Better Life Programme for Rural Women in 1987, a nationwide initiative that empowered women through cooperatives, cottage industries, agriculture, skills training, markets and social welfare support. The programme opened pathways for thousands of Nigerian women, especially those in rural communities, to gain financial independence.

In 1993, the government established the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women’s Development in Abuja. The centre became a hub for research, policy development and training to support women seeking self reliance and leadership opportunities.

Maryam also used her position to build relationships across the continent. She encouraged First Ladies in other African countries to contribute actively to national development, particularly concerning women and children. Her strong presence, elegance and fashion sense made her a national icon. The media described this as the Maryam Phenomenon. Her style, confidence and charisma set trends that lasted long after she left office.

Her book titled Home Front: Nigerian Army Officers and Their Wives, published in 1988, highlighted the vital roles women played in supporting military families. Although some feminists criticised parts of the book, it remained a reflection of her belief in the dignity of women’s work within the home and the community.

Maryam also worked closely with the National Council for Women’s Societies and played a key role in rallying women behind government policies, including some unpopular economic reforms of the late eighties. Journalists often described her public appearances in glowing terms. During the opening of the Better Life Fair in 1990, a reporter said she looked like a Roman empress, graceful and radiant in a glittering outfit.

In later years, she battled ovarian cancer. In November 2009, rumours circulated about her death, which she personally dismissed at the time through her aides. Sadly, she passed away on December twenty seventh 2009 at the age of sixty one at the University of California medical centre in Los Angeles. Her husband was by her side when she breathed her last. The news of her death was met with deep sorrow across Nigeria. Senator David Mark was reported to have broken down in tears upon hearing of her passing.

Maryam’s legacy continued to be honoured many years after her death. On March nineteenth 2020, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, accompanied by Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, commissioned the Maryam Babangida Way in Asaba to immortalise her contributions.

At the time of her passing, The Times of Nigeria described her as one of the greatest women in Africa. Her life remains an important chapter in Nigerian history, remembered for her grace, her passion for women’s empowerment and her determination to redefine the role of the First Lady in the country.

She actually looks like her father. Baba Obasanjo's blood is so strong that "almost" all his children look like him. I used "almost" because I don't think I know or have met all his children.

You may be wondering why I decided to post this here. Today is Monday, all workers are expected to be at work while job seekers are busy searching for opportunities that would keep them in the workforce. I saw a post online and felt inspired to share it here so that we workers and smart job seekers can learn from it.

Why Hard Work Isn’t Enough: Building Real Wealth for Retirement in Nigeria


Many Nigerians have experienced the bittersweet reality of retiring after decades of dedicated service, only to find that years of hard work did not translate into lasting financial security. Retirement ceremonies are often grand and heartfelt, publicly honouring individuals as men and women of integrity who faithfully served the system. Yet, behind the applause and speeches lies a stark truth: too many retirees receive gratuities and pensions that barely cover immediate expenses, let alone secure their futures.

This situation is not unique; millions face the same challenge across Nigeria. After thirty or more years of service, many retire without assets such as a house, business, or investments. Their pension payments are often too small to keep up with inflation, eroding their purchasing power over time. Statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics illustrate that pension payments frequently fall short of retirees’ basic needs, exposing a serious gap in long-term financial planning for public servants.

The problem runs deeper than insufficient pay. Many Nigerians grow up believing their salary equals financial security and that saving is enough to build wealth. However, saving money without investing it in income-generating assets means their value diminishes over time due to inflation. The reality of economic life in Nigeria shows that assets like land and productive businesses appreciate significantly, often massively outpacing inflation. For example, a plot of land that could be bought for ₦500,000 a decade ago may now be worth tens of millions of naira, while consumer goods and depreciable items like cars lose value steadily.

As shared in a powerful personal reflection, a car purchased for ₦1.5 million in 2011 could never be sold today for anywhere near the current value of that money invested in land, which has appreciated exponentially. This simple comparison underscores a critical lesson: wealth grows with wise investment and strategic asset building—not merely through hard work and loyalty to an employer.

The Nigerian economy brims with opportunities that many overlook. Affordable land, small-scale businesses, and investment platforms provide accessible routes for growing wealth. Yet, success demands financial education and intentional efforts beyond paycheck reliance. Building assets that generate income, even modestly; provides resilience against economic shocks and inflation, enabling retirees to secure their futures.

This wake-up call is especially urgent for public servants and others relying solely on pensions. Instead of applauding years of service alone, Nigerians must foster a culture of financial wisdom that teaches how to multiply money and build lasting wealth. No one will ask how many years you served in retirement; the vital question will be what you built and left behind.

By embracing financial literacy, diversifying income sources, and investing wisely, Nigerian workers can transform retirement from a time of financial struggle to one of peace and prosperity. It is a call to all: make smart decisions today that will yield rewards tomorrow. May wisdom guide every Nigerian as they plan for a secure and dignified future.

Written by Akinyele Kolade Abel

Kolade Akinyele is a passionate writer and brand analyst who believes that Nigeria can be much better than it is today.

Kutunban:
This has been my major concern lately. Earlier this term, we had to withdraw our daughter from her school in Barnawa, along Angola Road. I don’t want to mention the name of the school, but they kept increasing their fees unnecessarily and introducing activities that didn’t make any sense. They also no longer had a qualified maths teacher the one they used to have probably left because of poor salary.

What made it even worse was discovering that the person teaching them mathematics actually studied English. My daughter is already in Primary Three, yet they only just started teaching them the basic concepts of fraction addition and subtraction. Even back in Primary Two, the teacher who handled their maths would simply rush through many pages, skip the important topics, and then give them assignments. Who exactly was she expecting to teach them the mathematics we are paying her to teach? We, the parents, would end up teaching the children at home, and when they returned to school, she wouldn’t even revisit the topic she would just move on to the next one.

Instead of building proper mathematical foundations, the school kept asking pupils to bring fruits and random items “for fraction practicals” another tactic to make parents spend unnecessary money that was why I withdraw her. During our own time, it wasn’t like this at all; we were taught the real basics early, and we understood them well. This is why Nigeria’s education system urgently needs an overhaul.

But that’s not even the biggest issue. My daughter had already started the term and I had bought her new uniforms. What really bothered me was seeing that most of the teachers trekked long distances to school, and it was obvious they were struggling financially. I doubt many of them earn up to ₦70,000. And honestly, how can teachers who are earning such poor salaries give your children the quality of education they deserve?

To make it worse, I was the one who taught my daughter how to read and spell using phonics, and I’m also the one who taught her basic mathematics. It honestly felt like I was just wasting money in that school without getting any meaningful results. Everything she knows from reading to solving maths she learned because I taught her myself, not because of the school.

This is really concerning. Most private schools these days are just nothing but business centers. They practically do everything for money and not to impact knowledge as expected from an educational institution. Despite their expensive school fees, they are not really after rendering quality education to the students, they would rather inflate the grade of the pupils to make you feel they are doing well. In fact, I pity most parents who don't take time to personally assess their children. If you don't have time for that, you can engage the service of some organizations that are actually specialized in assessing the pupils just to cross-check with the grades the school present to you.

Stella Chinyelu Is The Current Fifth Richest Woman in Nigeria Without A Single Oil well.


Stella Chinyelu Okoli is widely recognised as one of Nigeria’s most successful industrialists and the founder of Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries, a company that grew from a small chemist shop she opened in 1977 into one of the country’s leading pharmaceutical manufacturers. Her reputation as a pioneering pharmacist and businesswoman is firmly supported by credible sources, as is her long history of philanthropic work through the Chike Okoli Foundation. While she is often celebrated for her influence in the pharmaceutical sector.More reliable and recent assessments typically place her as the fifth richest woman in Nigeria, with several reports estimating her wealth in the higher hundreds of millions of dollars. Although her exact net worth is not publicly confirmed, her status as one of the country’s wealthiest and most impactful female entrepreneurs remains undisputed.

Okoli and Ejindu are the only richest women on the list who made their wealth without a single oil well .

Here is the Ranking:

1. Folorunsho Alakija — ~$1 billion
2. Bola Shagaya — ~$950 million
3. Daisy Danjuma — ~$900 million
4. Fifi Ejindu — ~$850 million
5. Stella Okoli — ~$800 million

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbzRWQ2QCKQ

I heard the president have nominated former cds christopher musa for the position of minister of defense,i guess is time for me to tell you guys about my encounter with general christopher musa

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRxMxWMjHgA/?igsh=MXN3eGQwOHl5eDQ5Yg==

"On the 19th, around 10 a.m., they told me that the Army was looking for me. I said, ‘Army ke?’ He said yes. I panicked. Which wahala do I have with the Nigerian Army? I couldn’t remember anything. Then I said, ‘I don blast Christopher Musa before o.’

Anyway, I just said, ‘No wahala, let’s go.’ Because two things came to my mind: if they wanted to kpai me, they would have done it already. They already knew where I was and they know how to track me. So I followed them.

I didn’t know exactly who was looking for me. They just said the Army wanted to see me. Next thing, we entered a car, and they drove me to Asokoro. When we got there, we entered the military base. As soon as we got in, we drove straight in.

When they opened the door, guess who I saw? Christopher Musa. The same person I had blasted online. I looked at him well. This was on the 19th, around 11:30 a.m.—no, around 10:30 a.m.

When we entered, he told everyone to step outside and leave the two of us alone. Then we sat down. He looked at me and said, ‘VeryDarkMan.’ I said, ‘Yes, sir.’

He asked, ‘Do you know why I brought you here?’ I said, ‘No, sir.’ Then he said, ‘I need your help.’

I was shocked. I asked, ‘Sir, help with what?’

He said, ‘You need to tell me everything you noticed when you went to Yelwata. You were the first person with a camera who went there. People were scared to go. So tell me everything you observed when you got to Yelwata, what you think, and any information you gathered.’

After I told him everything, he said, ‘Okay, thank you very much. We’ll take it from here. Please, if you have any more information, let me know.’

Then we took this picture that day. As you can see, it was on the 20th of June 2025.

The reason I’m talking now is because when I heard he had been removed as Chief of Defence Staff, I just shook my head. You know why? Because that man was genuinely looking for solutions.

For that man to call VeryDarkMan to his house, look me straight in the eyes—this is the Chief of Defence Staff, bro—and tell me, ‘I need your help’… that’s someone who isn’t ashamed to seek information from anywhere. No pride whatsoever." — Activist VeryDarkMan shares the story of his private encounter with former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, following reports of Musa’s nomination as the new Minister of Defence by President Bola Tinubu.

odejimioflagos:
I think Jonathan’s time was indeed better than the current administration.

Anyone denying that is either being disingenuous or doesn’t understand Nigeria.

You think? Well, na think you still dey think.

Certificate of Expulsion go fear you na? Did they give him any certificate of induction as a member when he joined the party? What even gave them the effrontery to publicize and advertise his expulsion like this? This one no be small matter o.

Among many Nigerians today, there is a growing chorus nostalgically calling back to the era of Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, painting it as a golden age—the proverbial El Dorado. But this romanticising of the past is deeply reactionary and dangerous. It ignores harsh realities and risks trapping the nation in a cycle of uncritical loyalty that harms progress.

Jonathan’s presidency, like many before and after, was marked by serious challenges. Yes, some enjoyed stability or developmental strides, but this era also saw systemic corruption, inefficiency, and the heavy-handedness of organized violence. Those who cling to this period as some form of paradise gloss over these truths, becoming little more than floatsam and jetsam—drifting aimlessly without addressing the underlying decay in governance and civic rights.

Organised violence—whether state-sponsored or through proxies—has often been wielded as a tool against the Nigerian people. It appears in various forms: suppression of dissent, electoral manipulation, police brutality, or intimidation of communities. The Jonathan administration had its share of such incidents, and remembering it as purely a golden era dismisses the suffering of those marginalized by these abuses.

As Nigerians, it’s crucial to resist the allure of nostalgia that blinds us to real systemic issues. Rather than harking back to any one leader or time as an untouchable high point, the focus must be on holding current and future leaders accountable and demanding meaningful reforms. These reforms should promote transparent governance, respect for human rights, and a genuine security framework that serves the people instead of oppressing them.

“Wake up Nigeria” isn’t just a call to reject past illusions; it’s an urgent invitation to action. It is a push to engage critically with our political landscape, to be wary of simplistic comparisons and sentimental longing for past leadership, and to demand better from those in power.

Our nation’s future depends on learning from history without being shackled to it. It calls for vigilance, unity, and courage to challenge those who use power and violence against us. Only through this can Nigeria move closer to the democracy and prosperity that all Nigerians deserve.

Written by Kolade Akinyele Abel

Kolade Akinyele is a passionate writer and brand analyst who believes that Nigeria can be much better than it is today. Through his articles, he shares bold ideas and practical insights aimed at sparking real change in how we learn, teach, and build the future. You can reach out to him via his email: abelakinyele@gmail.com.

The Tragic Assassination of Saka Saula (Jesus ti o ni ige): Lagos’ Influential NURTW Leader

An account of the life, career, and untimely death of Saka Saula, a powerful figure in Lagos’ transport union landscape.

Saka Saula, popularly known as “Jesu tí o ní ìgè”, was a formidable figure in Lagos’ transport sector and a former acting Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Lagos Chapter. His death in 2008 sent shockwaves across the state, temporarily halting commercial transport activities in some areas of Lagos.

Early Life and Career

Born around 1963, Saula began his journey in Lagos in 1976 as a bus conductor, a humble position that marked the start of his climb through the ranks of the transportation industry. He later trained and became a driver, before joining the NURTW, where he steadily rose through the hierarchy.

Within the union, Saula first became a supervisor of motor parks and later the Public Relations Officer (PRO) for his branch. His leadership qualities propelled him to the position of Vice Chairman of NURTW’s Alimosho Branch ‘A’. Eventually, he was appointed Chairman of the caretaker committee, becoming one of the most influential figures in Lagos’ transport sector.

Wealth and Influence

At the peak of his career, Saula was widely regarded as one of the most powerful and wealthy union leaders in Lagos. Reports suggested he earned a daily income of approximately four hundred thousand naira, owned five SUVs, including two Hummers, and ensured his five children studied abroad.

His influence extended beyond the union, as he maintained close political ties with Lagos State authorities. In 2007, the Lagos State Government, through the Lagos Area Metropolitan Transport Authority (LAMATA), sponsored him on a trip to Colombia, Brazil, and other South American nations to study their Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems, further cementing his status as a key figure in urban transport development.

Assassination

Tragically, Saula’s life was cut short on January 6, 2008, when he was assassinated at the age of 45. According to reports, he had just returned from work around 9:30 pm when two commercial motorcyclists engaged him in conversation in front of his house. Meanwhile, four armed men had already arrived at his gate, blending in by casually purchasing cigarettes at a nearby kiosk.

The assailants waited until Saula was distracted by the motorcyclists before opening fire, striking him in the chest. He attempted to flee but was chased until he collapsed in a roadside gutter. The attackers reportedly ensured he had died before leaving the scene.

Saula’s assassination highlighted the dangers faced by influential figures in Lagos’ commercial transport sector and remains a notable and tragic moment in the history of the NURTW.

Personal Life

Saka Saula was a father of five children, all of whom reportedly pursued education abroad. Details about his early family life remain limited in public records.

Legacy

Saka Saula is remembered as a powerful and influential union leader who rose from humble beginnings to dominate Lagos’ NURTW landscape. His assassination underscores the violent challenges and risks often associated with leadership in Nigeria’s transport unions.

Sources

1. YorubaBlog – “The Life and Assassination of Saka Saula”

2. Premium Times Nigeria – Reports on NURTW Leadership (2008)

3. The Nation Nigeria – Coverage of Lagos Transport Union Incidents