₦airaland Forum

can you please stop all these and blame the thieves who have sworn to make Nigerian beg for food.

According to the statement, the soldiers swiftly mounted a snap roadblock at Zaki-Biam, Benue State, where the suspect was intercepted without resistance.

“Following preliminary interrogation, the suspect voluntarily led troops to a concealed armoury belonging to the criminal network at Amadu village in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State,” the statement said.
.
we know the military are trying and sacrifice a lot to make Nigerian sleep peaceful and soundly at night.
.
They should please stop telling us all these stories

Joint security forces were immediately deployed to the area after the attack, while the injured victims were evacuated to Malumfashi General Hospital for medical treatment, according to security intelligence expert Zagazola Makama.

ALWAYS THE SAME STORY

bunch of touts parading themselves as progressives

President Bola Tinubu has ordered a manhunt for the terrorists responsible for a deadly attack on communities in Niger State that left more than 40 people dead and many others abducted
.
will you stop lying
All these agbado urchins and lies are 5 and 6

May 29, 2023, to. December 31, 2025

By Olalekan Samuel Ogunleye
To judge a president by the results that affect ordinary people (cost of living, security, governance quality, and trust), one can argue very strongly that President Tinubu has been one of the worst presidents Nigeria has had in recent times. Below, I will highlight 10 Evaluation metrics to support this claim.

1) He launched reforms that caused a severe cost-of-living shock, without adequate cushioning.

Removing petrol subsidy and related changes may sound “economically correct,” but the speed and intensity of the hardship were tremendous.
Before anyone tells me “reforms are necessary,” my response is simple: reform without protection becomes punishment.

2) Inflation became a headline tragedy for households

When inflation climbed as high as 34.19% in June 2024, it wasn’t just statistics. Instead, it was hunger, rent pressure, and families cutting meals. Even now that inflation has slowed down, the question is: how many lives were broken before the policy benefits arrived?

3) The naira and Forex environment punished businesses and salaries

Forex fluctuations and naira volatility resulted in higher prices for imported inputs, increased operating costs for SMEs, and reduced real wages. His supporters will say, “It’s a needed adjustment,” but I keep asking: Why was the transition managed so shakily that citizens had to bear the cost?

4) Minimum wage increase exposed how badly wages fell behind reality
Yes, the minimum wage moved from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000 (signed July 29, 2024). However, that moment itself proves the pressure Nigerians were under. A wage hike is not a victory if inflation and prices have already run far ahead; it can still feel like a late patch on a deep wound.

5) Social protection felt too slow or too small for the scale of suffering

Government palliatives and support programs existed on paper, but many people experienced them as inconsistent, delayed, or insufficient.
In leadership, perception matters: when people feel abandoned, trust collapses.

6) The Nigerian Electricity became “pay more, suffer the same.”

The Band A tariff jump in April 2024 is a significant example: higher costs without a fast, visible improvement in reliability for many citizens.
And even the government’s own narrative admits the sector still struggles with grid problems and limited generation, so why should citizens accept higher bills as “progress”?

7) Food insecurity worsened to alarming projections.

If tens of millions are projected to face severe food insecurity, including projections of over 33 million in 2025, that constitutes a governance failure. Full stop. You can blame climate and global factors, but a serious government reduces shocks by protecting farming, transport, and purchasing power. How has Tinubu handled this?

cool Insecurity remained a defining failure in the country. Kidnapping, terror attacks, fear, etc. A president’s first job is to make citizens feel safe. When mass kidnappings continue, including major school abductions, it tells investors, parents, and farmers that the state can’t protect them, and everything else suffers.

9) The handling of protests and dissent damaged legitimacy

When protesters were charged with treason after cost-of-living demonstrations, it sent a dangerous signal about civic space.
Even if the government claims it’s “maintaining order,” the burden is on the state to prove proportionality, accountability, and respect for rights. When you keep arresting peaceful protesters or harassing them with police, it clearly shows how you value human rights. Human rights under Tinubu are worse than those of the previous two governments.

10) Governance trust: Corruption, controversial policy processes, and oil-sector credibility issues
When major tax laws face public controversy about content and enforcement powers, people lose trust in the process. Especially when implementation goes ahead amid disputes. A government that manipulates tax laws passed by parliament without informing parliament and then gazettes a different law is nothing but corrupt and fraudulent.

And when oil-sector financial decisions, such as significant debt write-offs, occur while historic remittance disputes remain unresolved, it reinforces the belief that Nigeria’s system still prioritizes protecting institutions over citizens. A government that issues contracts without following due process, as in the case of the Lagos-Calabar Highway, which was given to the President's friend. This is a clear case of nepotism and corruption.

In conclusion, my argument is not that “Tinubu did not carry out reforms.” My argument is that the reforms were experienced as hardship without adequate protection; insecurity persisted; and trust in governance suffered. Corruption remains prevalent mainly under this government, and media propaganda is the prevailing order of the day. If someone wants to argue that Tinubu is doing well, I’m open, but I must see measurable improvements that ordinary Nigerians have felt since he resumed in 2023. Improvements such as stable prices, safer communities, reliable power, and transparent governance. Not just media statistics that have no positive impact on the lives of the masses.

Nigeria is currently on sickbed and the doctored hired to carry out healing reforms on her seems to be incapable for now.

‘What laws say about US action in Venezuela’ – UN, dons react
‘What laws say about US action in Venezuela’ – UN, dons react
By Nkiruka Nnorom & Henry Ojelu

The dramatic capture of Venezuelan President, Nicolás Maduro, by US forces has sent shockwaves around the world, raising fundamental questions about the principles of international law and respect for sovereignty.


Trump posts photo of handcuffed, blindfolded Maduro
Earlier today, US President Donald Trump announced that Maduro had been captured by US forces and taken to New York City in a “large-scale strike” against the South American country.



Addressing a press conference after the attack, Trump said that the US would run Venezuela until “safe transition of power takes place” and does not rule out boots on ground in the country.

Trump added that US companies would now run Venezuela’s oil industry following Maduro’s capture.


Ads by
The operation, which included multiple explosions and low-flying aircraft in the capital Caracas, has been met with widespread international condemnation with some experts arguing that international law and sovereignty of other countries were now being put on trial.

Meanwhile, Maduro’s government has denounced the action as an “extremely serious military aggression” and declared a state of emergency, while several countries, including Russia, China, and Iran, have expressed support for Venezuela’s sovereignty.

UN kicks
“The deadly and treacherous U.S. military attack is being carried out against a country that is at peace,” Venezuela’s U.N. Ambassador, Samuel Moncada, wrote to the Security Council on Saturday, warning that it “has serious implications for regional and international peace and security.”

This is even as the US has justified its actions as a pursuit of justice against Maduro, who faces narco-terrorism charges.

UN Charter
International law does not authorise one state to use military force to capture the leader of another sovereign state as if executing its own criminal law abroad.

Any lawful transfer for prosecution normally must occur through consensual extradition, a UN mandate, or recognized legal frameworks, not unilateral military abduction.

Related News
US actions in Venezuela, ‘dangerous precedent’ - United Nations
US oil firms heading to Venezuela - Trump
Venezuela accuses US of bombing residential areas
Under the United Nations Charter, states must not use force against the territorial integrity or political independence of another state.

Article 2(4) of the UN Charter prohibits such military coercion except in three narrow exceptions: With UN Security Council authorization;

In self-defense after an armed attack (Article 51);

At the invitation of the legitimate government of the target state.

Any other use of force, including unilateral invasions or raids is legally unlawful.

Capturing a sitting head of state by military assault in his own country without these conditions would generally violate this central principle of international law.

It’s a call for countries to maintain internal stability, cohesion – Prof. Ochogwu
Reacting to the development, Prof. Joseph Ochogwu, Director General, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, IPCR, said the US action in Venezuela was a signal to other countries about the importance of maintaining internal stability, building local cohesion, national consensus, and good governance to maintain sovereignty.

Emphasising the need for countries to prioritise citizens’ welfare, Ochogwu said that when a country has a strong foundation of democracy, rule of law, and development, it’s less likely to be subjected to external intervention.

He attributed US action to realpolitik and influence of powerful nations, saying that they (powerful nations) might use various means to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, often citing humanitarian or democratic reasons.

He also highlighted the country’s ideological differences, loss of popular legitimacy, and alignment with Russia and China as factors contributing to the crisis.

The IPCR boss also notes the importance of oil wealth and the US’s concerns about narco-terrorism.

“There is an extent to which we define sovereignty. You can maintain your sovereignty when everything about your country is in shape in terms of national cohesion, and in terms of the lives and properties of people to be safe. You can see that Venezuela is sharply divided.

“The popular vote of the people has been subverted, at least, in two electoral processes by Hugo Chavez and his groups. And also he’s increasing militarisation, suppression and repression of the Venezuelan people by a lot of his militias that he has set up over the years and all that.

“So, when you don’t follow domestic rules in the governance of your people, then, of course, you are calling for some level of intervention by, of course, powerful nations like America.

“I think that, largely, it sends signals to a lot of other countries on why they need to build local cohesion, national consensus, and begin to get people to build their nation in terms of development, good governance, rule of law, democracy, and all that.

“But once you don’t have that in place, you can have people question the issues of sovereignty because first and foremost, there are people living within Venezuela that have been calling for this action for years. So, what the government needed to have done was to have increasingly and openly and transparently engaged in some kind of reforms to begin to rebuild.

“But you see, at times, it’s difficult for people who are in power to listen to voices of other people, particularly voices that come from citizens or from oppositions,” he said.

Continuing, he said: ‘In terms of geopolitical realities, Latin America is one of the spheres of influence of the United States. So, when you find players like Russia and China play a more prominent role in that place. Of course, it will give cause for concern.

“Another component that you need to look at also is the area of natural resources, which is the oil wealth of Venezuela. Which of course,
you know that the American companies were dominant in the oil industry. Like reports have it, their licences already expired as of May last year, so the Chinese were actually coming in. And in real politics, there is no big power that watches itself being sidelined in the area where it has exerted influence over the years, particularly economic influence.”

He, however, said that the US action in Venezuela had implications for the global order, potentially emboldening other powerful nations to pursue similar strategies.

It’s disregard for Venezuela sovereignty – Prof Babatunde
Also reacting, Prof. Babatunde Ayeleru, Department of European Studies, University of Ibadan, said he was not surprised by Trump’s action given his antecedent of taking bold measures when convinced on a mission.

However, he questioned the legitimacy of the action under international law.

He stressed that it was a disregard for Venezuela’s sovereignty unless the US had complied with relevant regulations and prerequisites.

He said the action raised questions about the role of powerful nations in international relations and potential for abuse of power.

Prof. Babatunde warned that this action would send a signal that the US can invade countries on slight provocation, potentially leading to a breakdown in global geopolitics and international relations.

He said: “It’s as if the so-called international law and the respect for sovereignty of other countries are now put on trial. This action appears to be a clear disregard for the sovereignty of Venezuela except it is confirmed that America had complied with all laid down regulations that are prerequisites for such an invasion and the attendant removal of the Venezuelan president. That is when such an action could be justified.

“It will, no doubt, send a strong signal to many countries that the United States of America can invade any country on a very slight provocation. This is a disguised form of re-colonization.

“Obviously, this action will negatively impact global geopolitics and international relations. It will definitely breed suspicions, lack of trust, animosity and breakdown of diplomacy between the US and many countries. It must also be emphasized that there is a tendency for other countries to misinterpret or interrogate the genuineness of the intentions of the US in carrying out the invasion and regime change.”

He expressed concern for Nigeria, advising the government to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy in dealing with issues, including those raised by President Trump.

“I am afraid for Nigeria and that is why I have always been encouraging the Nigerian government to embrace dialogue and diplomacy in dealing with the issues of alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria which President Trump raised some weeks ago,” he added.

It sets dangerous precedent – UN
Meanwhile there has been global condemnation of the attack. Reacting, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterre expressed deep concern over the US military action, warning it would set a dangerous precedent.

“These developments constitute a dangerous precedent,” Guterres’ spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

“The Secretary-General continues to emphasize the importance of full respect by all of international law, including the UN Charter. He’s deeply concerned that the rules of international law have not been respected.”

“The EU called for restraint and respect for international law, with EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, emphasizing the importance of upholding the UN Charter.

Also, countries like Colombia, Mexico, and Brazil have condemned the US strikes, citing concerns about regional stability and sovereignty.

Vanguard News
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/what-laws-say-about-us-action-in-venezuela-un-dons-react/

‘What laws say about US action in Venezuela’ – UN, dons react
‘What laws say about US action in Venezuela’ – UN, dons react
By Nkiruka Nnorom & Henry Ojelu

The dramatic capture of Venezuelan President, Nicolás Maduro, by US forces has sent shockwaves around the world, raising fundamental questions about the principles of international law and respect for sovereignty.


Trump posts photo of handcuffed, blindfolded Maduro
Earlier today, US President Donald Trump announced that Maduro had been captured by US forces and taken to New York City in a “large-scale strike” against the South American country.



Addressing a press conference after the attack, Trump said that the US would run Venezuela until “safe transition of power takes place” and does not rule out boots on ground in the country.

Trump added that US companies would now run Venezuela’s oil industry following Maduro’s capture.


Ads by
The operation, which included multiple explosions and low-flying aircraft in the capital Caracas, has been met with widespread international condemnation with some experts arguing that international law and sovereignty of other countries were now being put on trial.

Meanwhile, Maduro’s government has denounced the action as an “extremely serious military aggression” and declared a state of emergency, while several countries, including Russia, China, and Iran, have expressed support for Venezuela’s sovereignty.

UN kicks
“The deadly and treacherous U.S. military attack is being carried out against a country that is at peace,” Venezuela’s U.N. Ambassador, Samuel Moncada, wrote to the Security Council on Saturday, warning that it “has serious implications for regional and international peace and security.”

This is even as the US has justified its actions as a pursuit of justice against Maduro, who faces narco-terrorism charges.

UN Charter
International law does not authorise one state to use military force to capture the leader of another sovereign state as if executing its own criminal law abroad.

Any lawful transfer for prosecution normally must occur through consensual extradition, a UN mandate, or recognized legal frameworks, not unilateral military abduction.

Related News
US actions in Venezuela, ‘dangerous precedent’ - United Nations
US oil firms heading to Venezuela - Trump
Venezuela accuses US of bombing residential areas
Under the United Nations Charter, states must not use force against the territorial integrity or political independence of another state.

Article 2(4) of the UN Charter prohibits such military coercion except in three narrow exceptions: With UN Security Council authorization;

In self-defense after an armed attack (Article 51);

At the invitation of the legitimate government of the target state.

Any other use of force, including unilateral invasions or raids is legally unlawful.

Capturing a sitting head of state by military assault in his own country without these conditions would generally violate this central principle of international law.

It’s a call for countries to maintain internal stability, cohesion – Prof. Ochogwu
Reacting to the development, Prof. Joseph Ochogwu, Director General, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, IPCR, said the US action in Venezuela was a signal to other countries about the importance of maintaining internal stability, building local cohesion, national consensus, and good governance to maintain sovereignty.

Emphasising the need for countries to prioritise citizens’ welfare, Ochogwu said that when a country has a strong foundation of democracy, rule of law, and development, it’s less likely to be subjected to external intervention.

He attributed US action to realpolitik and influence of powerful nations, saying that they (powerful nations) might use various means to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, often citing humanitarian or democratic reasons.

He also highlighted the country’s ideological differences, loss of popular legitimacy, and alignment with Russia and China as factors contributing to the crisis.

The IPCR boss also notes the importance of oil wealth and the US’s concerns about narco-terrorism.

“There is an extent to which we define sovereignty. You can maintain your sovereignty when everything about your country is in shape in terms of national cohesion, and in terms of the lives and properties of people to be safe. You can see that Venezuela is sharply divided.

“The popular vote of the people has been subverted, at least, in two electoral processes by Hugo Chavez and his groups. And also he’s increasing militarisation, suppression and repression of the Venezuelan people by a lot of his militias that he has set up over the years and all that.

“So, when you don’t follow domestic rules in the governance of your people, then, of course, you are calling for some level of intervention by, of course, powerful nations like America.

“I think that, largely, it sends signals to a lot of other countries on why they need to build local cohesion, national consensus, and begin to get people to build their nation in terms of development, good governance, rule of law, democracy, and all that.

“But once you don’t have that in place, you can have people question the issues of sovereignty because first and foremost, there are people living within Venezuela that have been calling for this action for years. So, what the government needed to have done was to have increasingly and openly and transparently engaged in some kind of reforms to begin to rebuild.

“But you see, at times, it’s difficult for people who are in power to listen to voices of other people, particularly voices that come from citizens or from oppositions,” he said.

Continuing, he said: ‘In terms of geopolitical realities, Latin America is one of the spheres of influence of the United States. So, when you find players like Russia and China play a more prominent role in that place. Of course, it will give cause for concern.

“Another component that you need to look at also is the area of natural resources, which is the oil wealth of Venezuela. Which of course,
you know that the American companies were dominant in the oil industry. Like reports have it, their licences already expired as of May last year, so the Chinese were actually coming in. And in real politics, there is no big power that watches itself being sidelined in the area where it has exerted influence over the years, particularly economic influence.”

He, however, said that the US action in Venezuela had implications for the global order, potentially emboldening other powerful nations to pursue similar strategies.

It’s disregard for Venezuela sovereignty – Prof Babatunde
Also reacting, Prof. Babatunde Ayeleru, Department of European Studies, University of Ibadan, said he was not surprised by Trump’s action given his antecedent of taking bold measures when convinced on a mission.

However, he questioned the legitimacy of the action under international law.

He stressed that it was a disregard for Venezuela’s sovereignty unless the US had complied with relevant regulations and prerequisites.

He said the action raised questions about the role of powerful nations in international relations and potential for abuse of power.

Prof. Babatunde warned that this action would send a signal that the US can invade countries on slight provocation, potentially leading to a breakdown in global geopolitics and international relations.

He said: “It’s as if the so-called international law and the respect for sovereignty of other countries are now put on trial. This action appears to be a clear disregard for the sovereignty of Venezuela except it is confirmed that America had complied with all laid down regulations that are prerequisites for such an invasion and the attendant removal of the Venezuelan president. That is when such an action could be justified.

“It will, no doubt, send a strong signal to many countries that the United States of America can invade any country on a very slight provocation. This is a disguised form of re-colonization.

“Obviously, this action will negatively impact global geopolitics and international relations. It will definitely breed suspicions, lack of trust, animosity and breakdown of diplomacy between the US and many countries. It must also be emphasized that there is a tendency for other countries to misinterpret or interrogate the genuineness of the intentions of the US in carrying out the invasion and regime change.”

He expressed concern for Nigeria, advising the government to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy in dealing with issues, including those raised by President Trump.

“I am afraid for Nigeria and that is why I have always been encouraging the Nigerian government to embrace dialogue and diplomacy in dealing with the issues of alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria which President Trump raised some weeks ago,” he added.

It sets dangerous precedent – UN
Meanwhile there has been global condemnation of the attack. Reacting, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterre expressed deep concern over the US military action, warning it would set a dangerous precedent.

“These developments constitute a dangerous precedent,” Guterres’ spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

“The Secretary-General continues to emphasize the importance of full respect by all of international law, including the UN Charter. He’s deeply concerned that the rules of international law have not been respected.”

“The EU called for restraint and respect for international law, with EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, emphasizing the importance of upholding the UN Charter.

Also, countries like Colombia, Mexico, and Brazil have condemned the US strikes, citing concerns about regional stability and sovereignty.

Vanguard News
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/what-laws-say-about-us-action-in-venezuela-un-dons-react/

‘What laws say about US action in Venezuela’ – UN, dons react
‘What laws say about US action in Venezuela’ – UN, dons react
By Nkiruka Nnorom & Henry Ojelu

The dramatic capture of Venezuelan President, Nicolás Maduro, by US forces has sent shockwaves around the world, raising fundamental questions about the principles of international law and respect for sovereignty.


Trump posts photo of handcuffed, blindfolded Maduro
Earlier today, US President Donald Trump announced that Maduro had been captured by US forces and taken to New York City in a “large-scale strike” against the South American country.



Addressing a press conference after the attack, Trump said that the US would run Venezuela until “safe transition of power takes place” and does not rule out boots on ground in the country.

Trump added that US companies would now run Venezuela’s oil industry following Maduro’s capture.


Ads by
The operation, which included multiple explosions and low-flying aircraft in the capital Caracas, has been met with widespread international condemnation with some experts arguing that international law and sovereignty of other countries were now being put on trial.

Meanwhile, Maduro’s government has denounced the action as an “extremely serious military aggression” and declared a state of emergency, while several countries, including Russia, China, and Iran, have expressed support for Venezuela’s sovereignty.

UN kicks
“The deadly and treacherous U.S. military attack is being carried out against a country that is at peace,” Venezuela’s U.N. Ambassador, Samuel Moncada, wrote to the Security Council on Saturday, warning that it “has serious implications for regional and international peace and security.”

This is even as the US has justified its actions as a pursuit of justice against Maduro, who faces narco-terrorism charges.

UN Charter
International law does not authorise one state to use military force to capture the leader of another sovereign state as if executing its own criminal law abroad.

Any lawful transfer for prosecution normally must occur through consensual extradition, a UN mandate, or recognized legal frameworks, not unilateral military abduction.

Related News
US actions in Venezuela, ‘dangerous precedent’ - United Nations
US oil firms heading to Venezuela - Trump
Venezuela accuses US of bombing residential areas
Under the United Nations Charter, states must not use force against the territorial integrity or political independence of another state.

Article 2(4) of the UN Charter prohibits such military coercion except in three narrow exceptions: With UN Security Council authorization;

In self-defense after an armed attack (Article 51);

At the invitation of the legitimate government of the target state.

Any other use of force, including unilateral invasions or raids is legally unlawful.

Capturing a sitting head of state by military assault in his own country without these conditions would generally violate this central principle of international law.

It’s a call for countries to maintain internal stability, cohesion – Prof. Ochogwu
Reacting to the development, Prof. Joseph Ochogwu, Director General, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, IPCR, said the US action in Venezuela was a signal to other countries about the importance of maintaining internal stability, building local cohesion, national consensus, and good governance to maintain sovereignty.

Emphasising the need for countries to prioritise citizens’ welfare, Ochogwu said that when a country has a strong foundation of democracy, rule of law, and development, it’s less likely to be subjected to external intervention.

He attributed US action to realpolitik and influence of powerful nations, saying that they (powerful nations) might use various means to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, often citing humanitarian or democratic reasons.

He also highlighted the country’s ideological differences, loss of popular legitimacy, and alignment with Russia and China as factors contributing to the crisis.

The IPCR boss also notes the importance of oil wealth and the US’s concerns about narco-terrorism.

“There is an extent to which we define sovereignty. You can maintain your sovereignty when everything about your country is in shape in terms of national cohesion, and in terms of the lives and properties of people to be safe. You can see that Venezuela is sharply divided.

“The popular vote of the people has been subverted, at least, in two electoral processes by Hugo Chavez and his groups. And also he’s increasing militarisation, suppression and repression of the Venezuelan people by a lot of his militias that he has set up over the years and all that.

“So, when you don’t follow domestic rules in the governance of your people, then, of course, you are calling for some level of intervention by, of course, powerful nations like America.

“I think that, largely, it sends signals to a lot of other countries on why they need to build local cohesion, national consensus, and begin to get people to build their nation in terms of development, good governance, rule of law, democracy, and all that.

“But once you don’t have that in place, you can have people question the issues of sovereignty because first and foremost, there are people living within Venezuela that have been calling for this action for years. So, what the government needed to have done was to have increasingly and openly and transparently engaged in some kind of reforms to begin to rebuild.

“But you see, at times, it’s difficult for people who are in power to listen to voices of other people, particularly voices that come from citizens or from oppositions,” he said.

Continuing, he said: ‘In terms of geopolitical realities, Latin America is one of the spheres of influence of the United States. So, when you find players like Russia and China play a more prominent role in that place. Of course, it will give cause for concern.

“Another component that you need to look at also is the area of natural resources, which is the oil wealth of Venezuela. Which of course,
you know that the American companies were dominant in the oil industry. Like reports have it, their licences already expired as of May last year, so the Chinese were actually coming in. And in real politics, there is no big power that watches itself being sidelined in the area where it has exerted influence over the years, particularly economic influence.”

He, however, said that the US action in Venezuela had implications for the global order, potentially emboldening other powerful nations to pursue similar strategies.

It’s disregard for Venezuela sovereignty – Prof Babatunde
Also reacting, Prof. Babatunde Ayeleru, Department of European Studies, University of Ibadan, said he was not surprised by Trump’s action given his antecedent of taking bold measures when convinced on a mission.

However, he questioned the legitimacy of the action under international law.

He stressed that it was a disregard for Venezuela’s sovereignty unless the US had complied with relevant regulations and prerequisites.

He said the action raised questions about the role of powerful nations in international relations and potential for abuse of power.

Prof. Babatunde warned that this action would send a signal that the US can invade countries on slight provocation, potentially leading to a breakdown in global geopolitics and international relations.

He said: “It’s as if the so-called international law and the respect for sovereignty of other countries are now put on trial. This action appears to be a clear disregard for the sovereignty of Venezuela except it is confirmed that America had complied with all laid down regulations that are prerequisites for such an invasion and the attendant removal of the Venezuelan president. That is when such an action could be justified.

“It will, no doubt, send a strong signal to many countries that the United States of America can invade any country on a very slight provocation. This is a disguised form of re-colonization.

“Obviously, this action will negatively impact global geopolitics and international relations. It will definitely breed suspicions, lack of trust, animosity and breakdown of diplomacy between the US and many countries. It must also be emphasized that there is a tendency for other countries to misinterpret or interrogate the genuineness of the intentions of the US in carrying out the invasion and regime change.”

He expressed concern for Nigeria, advising the government to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy in dealing with issues, including those raised by President Trump.

“I am afraid for Nigeria and that is why I have always been encouraging the Nigerian government to embrace dialogue and diplomacy in dealing with the issues of alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria which President Trump raised some weeks ago,” he added.

It sets dangerous precedent – UN
Meanwhile there has been global condemnation of the attack. Reacting, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterre expressed deep concern over the US military action, warning it would set a dangerous precedent.

“These developments constitute a dangerous precedent,” Guterres’ spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

“The Secretary-General continues to emphasize the importance of full respect by all of international law, including the UN Charter. He’s deeply concerned that the rules of international law have not been respected.”

“The EU called for restraint and respect for international law, with EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, emphasizing the importance of upholding the UN Charter.

Also, countries like Colombia, Mexico, and Brazil have condemned the US strikes, citing concerns about regional stability and sovereignty.

Vanguard News
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/what-laws-say-about-us-action-in-venezuela-un-dons-react/

Otedola urges CBN to raise banks’ capital to ₦1 trillion as FirstBank meets ₦500bn requirement
Mr Otedola says stronger capital buffers will improve governance, expand ownership structures and stop banks from being run as “personal estates”.

Billionaire investor and Chairman of First HoldCo Plc, Femi Otedola, has called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to further strengthen the banking system by raising the minimum capital requirement for international banks to at least ₦1 trillion.

Mr Otedola made the call on Friday in a statement in which he commended President Bola Tinubu and CBN Governor, Yemi Cardoso, for what he described as bold and disciplined economic reforms that are beginning to yield tangible results.

FIRST BANK AD Do you live in Ogijo
His comments came as FirstBank of Nigeria Limited, the commercial banking subsidiary of First HoldCo Plc, confirmed that it has met the ₦500 billion minimum capital base set by the CBN for banks holding international licences under the ongoing banking sector recapitalisation programme.

According to Mr Otedola, Nigeria’s ambition to build a $1 trillion economy cannot be achieved with weakly capitalised financial institutionsPremium Times Nigeria

Otedola urges CBN to raise banks’ capital to ₦1 trillion as FirstBank meets ₦500bn requirement
Mr Otedola says stronger capital buffers will improve governance, expand ownership structures and stop banks from being run as “personal estates”.
byPremium Times January 2, 2026 Reading Time: 2 mins read
Billionaire investor and Chairman of First HoldCo Plc, Femi Otedola, has called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to further strengthen the banking system by raising the minimum capital requirement for international banks to at least ₦1 trillion.

Mr Otedola made the call on Friday in a statement in which he commended President Bola Tinubu and CBN Governor, Yemi Cardoso, for what he described as bold and disciplined economic reforms that are beginning to yield tangible results.

His comments came as FirstBank of Nigeria Limited, the commercial banking subsidiary of First HoldCo Plc, confirmed that it has met the ₦500 billion minimum capital base set by the CBN for banks holding international licences under the ongoing banking sector recapitalisation programme.

According to Mr Otedola, Nigeria’s ambition to build a $1 trillion economy cannot be achieved with weakly capitalised financial institutions.

“From where I stand, and with the benefit of many years in Nigeria’s business landscape, I believe it is time to raise the minimum capital requirement for international banking licences from ₦500 billion to at least ₦1 trillion,” he said. “A modern economy aiming for the $1 trillion mark cannot rely on weakly capitalised banks.”

He argued that stronger capital buffers would improve governance, expand ownership structures and curb the long-standing problem of banks being run as “personal estates”.

The CBN, under Mr Cardoso, announced in 2024 a major recapitalisation exercise for Nigerian banks, the first in nearly two decades, in response to inflationary pressures, currency volatility and the need to position lenders to finance larger-ticket transactions in the real economy.

International banks were directed to raise their minimum capital to ₦500 billion, while national and regional banks face lower thresholds.

Mr Otedola described the recapitalisation policy as timely and necessary, noting that banks recorded strong profits in 2024 and are now expected to focus on prudence and consolidation.

“2025 has rightly become a year of prudence and consolidation,” he said, adding that only well-capitalised banks would be able to support long-term lending to critical sectors of the economy.

On FirstBank’s compliance, Mr Otedola said the bank’s shareholders are committed to injecting additional capital into its subsidiaries and expanding into new business adjacencies.

FirstBank, Nigeria’s oldest financial institution, operates across Africa and other international markets.

Beyond banking reforms, the businessman praised President Tinubu’s economic leadership, saying the administration’s tough reforms were laying the foundation for sustainable growth.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown remarkable courage and clarity in steering our country through difficult but necessary reforms,” he said, pointing to growing international recognition of Nigeria’s policy direction.
Mr Otedola also lauded Mr Cardoso’s monetary policy stance, crediting him with restoring confidence in the foreign exchange market and helping to slow inflation through what he described as a disciplined return to orthodox monetary policy.

He cited the strengthening of the naira on market fundamentals and the rise in Nigeria’s external reserves to over $46 billion (a seven-year high) as evidence of improved policy credibility.

“I say this without hesitation: Yemi Cardoso is the best Central Bank Governor Nigeria has ever produced,” Mr Otedola said. “His calmness, discipline, and unwavering focus on doing what is right, not what is easy, is the kind of leadership any serious economy needs.”

He urged the CBN governor to stay the course, adding that Nigeria is “turning a corner” and that investors who believe in the country will continue to support reforms aimed at building a stronger and more resilient economy.
see

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/847084-otedola-urges-cbn-to-raise-banks-capital-to-%E2%82%A61-trillion-as-firstbank-meets-%E2%82%A6500bn-requirement.html?tztc=1

replace ucap with Vfd

ManAdii:
The below is currently my portfolio on bamboo. I started investing last year just buying random stocks and all...

Experts in the house, I need insights; I want to optimize and trim down the portfolio to like 15. I know I am not really getting things right as I just buy stocks randomly. Gurus, which ones should I let go and which one not here should I add?

My goal is dividends and growth for long term.

1. Zenith Bank
2. GTCO (Guaranty Trust Holding Company)
3. Access Holdings
4. United Bank for Africa (UBA)
5. Fidelity Bank
6. Sterling Bank
7. Jaiz Bank
8. United Capital (UCAP)
9. AIICO Insurance
10. Unilever Nigeria
11. Cadbury Nigeria
12. Presco
13. Okomu Oil
14. Champion Breweries
15. Ellah Lakes
16. Oando
17. Aradel Holdings
18. Lafarge Africa (WAPCO)
19. UPDC REIT
20. Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund (NIDF)
21. Japaul Gold
22. Chams

Chapel Hill Denham lists N163.6 billion NREIT on NGX
Kelechi Mgboji by Kelechi Mgboji December 31, 2025
Chapel Hill Denham dominates NGX brokerage charts of top 10 firms in weekly trading

Chapel Hill Denham Management Limited has achieved a major milestone in Nigeria’s property-backed securities market with the Listing by Introduction of 1.59 billion units of its Nigeria Real Estate Investment Trust (NREIT) on the Main Board of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).

The listing, which took effect today, December 31, 2025, represents one of the largest REIT admissions on the Exchange and marks a significant step in deepening real estate investment opportunities for institutional and retail investors.

The units were listed at N103 per unit, giving the fund an implied market value of N163.6 billion under the N400 billion NREIT Issuance Programme.


What the listing details show
According to the NGX bulletin signed by the Head of Issuer Regulation, Godstime Iwenekhai, the listed fund carries the trading symbol NREIT, with ISIN NGCHDNREIT00, and will be traded under the name Nigeria Real Estate Investment Trust Fund.

Key parties to the transaction include:


Fund Manager: Chapel Hill Denham Management Limited
Stockbrokers: Chapel Hill Denham Securities Limited
Issuing House: Chapel Hill Denham Advisory Limited
Joint Trustee: Stanbic IBTC Trustees Limited
Custodian: Rand Merchant Bank Nigeria Limited
Registrar: Coronation Registrars Limited
The listing by introduction means that the units were not offered to the public at the time of listing but were admitted based on existing investor holdings and regulatory approvals under the N400 billion issuance programme.

What the listing means for Nigeria’s property investment market
The admission of the Chapel Hill Denham NREIT is expected to expand the depth of Nigeria’s alternative investment landscape at a time of rising appetite for income-generating assets.

The NREIT, structured to provide stable returns through diversified income from real estate assets, offers investors an opportunity to gain exposure to the property market. This is made possible without the high capital requirements and illiquidity associated with direct real estate ownership.

The NGX confirmed that the listing covers Series 1 to 4 of the programme, with a total of 1,588,617,222 units registered at a nominal value of N100 each but listed at a premium of N103.

Market analysts note that the listing could boost liquidity in the REITs segment of the market, which has seen renewed regulatory support and increased investor interest in 2025.

Implications for the Capital Market
The listing comes at a time when investors are seeking inflation-protective assets, particularly in real estate—one of the strongest-performing alternative asset classes in 2025. Market watchers say the move reinforces the NGX’s push to attract more real estate-backed instruments and strengthen capital formation for property development across the country.

Investment experts also consider the NREIT listing significant for Chapel Hill Denham, which has been expanding its footprint in infrastructure, real estate, and alternative investment management.

With structured oversight involving leading trustees, custodians, and registrars, the NREIT is expected to provide transparency, governance, and liquidity—key elements institutional investors demand.

What you need to know
The REIT offers investors exposure to diversified property assets with potential for stable income. The listing strengthens the NGX’s portfolio of real estate investment vehicles and provides another channel for mobilising long-term capital into Nigeria’s real estate sector.

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are structured to allow investors to participate in large, income-generating property assets without needing to buy property directly. This means retail and institutional investors can gain exposure to commercial and residential real estate via tradable securities on the stock exchange.

Fractional ownership lowers the entry barrier, enabling investors with modest capital to take part in the real estate market. Unlike direct property purchases that require large upfront sums and ongoing management, REIT units can be bought and sold easily on the NGX, improving accessibility and liquidity relative to traditional real estate.

As a Securities and Exchange Commission authorized Real Estate Investment Scheme, returns on investments as annual distribution are not less than 75% of its rental income or dividend income to unit holders.

bloggers and lies are like 2025 and 2026

Apparently, the two agencies engaged themselves over who should be in charge of security during the trial of the former minister.

Both officials of the two agencies threatened to shoot themselves over who should take charge of security at the court’s entrance.
.
this is the best for our democracy
Both officials of the two agencies threatened to shoot themselves over who should take charge of security at the court’s entrance for it is writing who ever comes close to these people will re loot whatever they loot.

1. former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN.
2. his son, Abdullaziz
3. one Asabe Bashir

Apparently, the two agencies engaged themselves over who should be in charge of security during the trial of the former minister.

Both officials of the two agencies threatened to shoot themselves over who should take charge of security at the court’s entrance.
this is the best for our democracy

“While this disagreement was on, a lot of us were deceived into believing so many things that were not true,” Ewor said. “In other words, the governor deceived us. Rather than give us the true picture of things, we were led with propaganda and lies, making us believe that the governor would wrestle political control from Wike.”
politics is deception

Ten states are planning to source about N4.287tn from loans, bonds, grants, capital receipts, and public-private partnerships to finance capital projects in their 2026 budgets. Collectively, the states, including Lagos, Abia, Ogun, Enugu, Osun, Delta, Sokoto, Edo, Bayelsa, and Gombe, presented budgets totaling N14.174tn to lawmakers.

most of the present and past state governors uses such fund to buy properties in USA and UK

how will it benefit the people

The Big Question:

Is religion truly providing genuine help and support to Nigerians, or is it merely acting as a sedative designed to keep the impoverished population from voicing their frustrations and grievances while they continue to be exploited and taken advantage of by those in power? Does it serve as a meaningful source of comfort and guidance, or is it simply a tool used to pacify the masses, preventing them from challenging the systemic injustices and inequalities that persist in society?

I really want to hear from everyone about this. Do you think we are being manipulated in some way, or is it possible that I am just overanalyzing and overthinking the entire situation?


at least and at most they are very happy and happiness is an intrinsic substances money can never buy

Gumi further alleged that terrorism in the country is being created and sustained by the same actors who claim to be fighting it, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and discerning hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

the vehicle were promptly rescued by security personnel attached to his convoy and taken to a hospital, where they are currently receiving medical attention. hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

spiritually leaking roof is a bad omen which means the country wealth will be leaking and they will soon become poor.
they should contact me for powerful spiritual cleansing so as to make the country prosperous once again

helloooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Rareoil:
lol atleast tell me, how i can start

with all the huge amount of oil and other resources sold yearly we are still borrowing

HgAkpobomeEr:
The borrowed funds are being used to fund critical infrastructure projects and other essential services. The impact will be felt in the long run.

Some selected people mischievously altered a passed legislation on tax law which in it's own is a criminal offense.

When criminals are desperate to prosecute law abiding citizens as criminals, then you should remember the narration

ojeysky:
Because it is jagaban; this govt is about what they want. Going to the house of assembly Na formality. Which country will the president enter the house and all house members will start singing "on your mandate we shall stand" no b juju be that.

May we all walk in peace, with understanding and without fear.

9jatriot:
At the rate that you are going, it will not be long before you completely pull your shirt, rub charcoal for your face and enter street. Afterall, street done already de your name sef, so e no go hard you.
Your other fellow pessimist wen e moniker start with "M", dat one own gud small, dat one fit land for Yaba Left.

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How can a normal human heart be filled with so much evil?
.

Tinubu himself and his minions out of hatred opposed and mocked every good policy from Obasanjo Jonathan and buhari made then. They even hired a lot of newspapers both online and offline and some clownish minions from helfire to opposed and mock any step Jonathan made then so insulting streetinvestor2 and megawealth for complaining bitterly will make Tinubu and his Tax goons to think they are are doing the right thing.

. even dangote too is complaining bitterly about tinubu and his goons tax system which is making life difficult for people

During a press conference with members of the press on Monday, exporting permits his company to avoid a variety of taxes that would dramatically increase production expenses at home.

“When you look at my invoice, the cement I export is cheaper than the one I’m selling domestically, because that’s how exports work… in export I’m saving a lot of money, I’m not paying 30% income tax, I’m not paying 2%, education, I’m not paying 1% health, I’m not paying 7.5% VAT, and I’m not paying 10% withholding tax.”

By eliminating these costs, the Nigerian billionaire noted that he would be able to price Nigerian cement competitively in global markets against producers from Turkey, Russia, and China.

In fact, Nigeria's fiscal framework makes it cheaper to sell locally produced items overseas than at home, reflecting deeper structural flaws in the economy.

“So when you reduce all these taxes, I can afford to go and compete with the international market, with the likes of Turkey, Russia, and China,” he stated.

The implication is clear: Nigerian consumers bear the cost of high taxes, various levies, and regulatory inefficiency. While local production is sometimes marketed as a remedy to high pricing, Dangote's experience demonstrates how policy decisions can undercut that goal.[b][/b]
.what goes around comes around

Slytiger

madridguy:
Without Lagos and Rivers, here is what the geo-political zones contributed to the VAT pool and received in November 2025

will you people stop all these rubbish blackmailing. MTN and all the national banks are having headquarters in Lagos.

PRESS STATEMENT BY THE SUPREME COUNCIL FOR SHARI’AH IN NIGERIA (SCSN) ON ALLEGED DISCREPANCIES IN THE GAZETTED TAX REFORM BILLS

The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) has followed with deep concern developments on the floor of the National Assembly yesterday, where Hon. Abdulsamad Dasuki, a duly elected member of the House of Representatives, raised an alarm over disturbing discrepancies between the tax reform bills passed by the National Assembly and the versions subsequently gazetted and presented to the Nigerian public.

The Council notes with utmost seriousness the allegation that additional clauses and other substantial material alterations appearing in the gazetted tax laws signed by the President were neither debated nor approved by the National Assembly. If established, this represents a grave and egregious constitutional infraction with far-reaching implications for democracy, governance, economic stability, and public trust.

Given the profound impact of tax legislation on the lives, livelihoods of ordinary citizens, businesses, and religious, social, and economic obligations of Nigerians, the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria actively monitored and contributed immensely throughout the legislative process of considering these tax reform bills at the National Assembly. Our engagements were guided by the need to ensure fairness, equity, transparency, constitutional compliance, and protection of the public interest.

The Council is therefore shocked and deeply disturbed by allegations on the floor of the House of Representatives that what Nigerians collectively debated, scrutinised, and agreed upon through their elected representatives may have been altered at the executive level. Such action, if established ,tantamounts to tampering with the sovereign will of the Nigerian people and undermines the very foundation of constitutional governance.

Accordingly, we hereby call on all stakeholders, in particular, the leadership of the National Assembly - the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajuddeen Abbas, and the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio to rise to their constitutional responsibilities by ensuring that these claims are transparently examined and appropriate actions taken before the commencement of the Tax Laws, on the 1st of January, 2026. Nigerians deserve respect, transparency, and fidelity to due process. Members of the National Assembly must be allowed, without hindrance, to conduct a critical, open, and transparent comparison between the harmonised bills passed by both chambers and the versions that were eventually gazetted, in order to establish the nature, extent, and impact of any alterations.

The consequences of such alleged infractions are grave. They include erosion of public confidence in democratic institutions, weakening of the doctrine of separation of powers, exposure of the affected laws to constitutional challenges, economic uncertainty, and loss of investor confidence. Most critically, they set a dangerous precedent where laws become negotiable instruments rather than binding outcomes of democratic deliberation.

Tax laws, by their compulsory nature, demand the highest level of constitutional integrity and procedural fidelity. Nigerians cannot be expected to comply with fiscal obligations arising from laws whose authenticity and legislative origin are in doubt. The Council therefore urges that this matter be treated with urgency, sincerity, and transparency in order to preserve constitutional order, protect institutional credibility, and reaffirm the supremacy of the Nigerian Constitution.

Nigeria’s democracy must not be undermined by executive overreach or procedural shortcuts. The will of the people, as expressed through the National Assembly, must be respected and defended.

Signed:

Nafiu Baba-Ahmad, mni
Secretary General
Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN)
27 Jumada II 1447 AH/ 17 December 2025

https://x.com/i/status/2001907716651094024

Islie:
https://guardian.ng/news/oshiomhole-jimkuta-celebrate-farouk-komolafes-from-nmdpra-nuprc/

Nlfpmod

bunch of clowns who are suppose to be dancing around the circus
.
Counter Terrorism Centred Denies Claims NSA Arms Ethnic Groups, Warns Against Misreporting Counter-Terrorism Operations