TRENDING NOW

Recent Post Recent Post
View More

at

 

The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, says Nigeria’s economy has grown stronger and is now better positioned to withstand global economic shocks, following recent reforms that are boosting investor confidence.

Speaking at the Africa Capital Forum in London, on the sidelines of Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to the United Kingdom, Cardoso noted that the apex bank has implemented disciplined monetary policies and institutional reforms to reinforce the financial system.

He said the CBN is reviewing its policies to make them more predictable and transparent, reducing uncertainty for investors and ensuring a more consistent policy environment.

Cardoso also revealed that the bank has finalized a new national payments system vision, which will soon be launched to position Nigeria as a key player in digital payments and cross-border transactions across Africa.

On the foreign exchange market, he highlighted improved transparency and liquidity, adding that a revised FX manual has eased restrictions and simplified operations for businesses and investors.

Providing an update on bank recapitalisation, Cardoso disclosed that over 30 banks have already met new capital requirements, with verification ongoing for others. He added that about 28 percent of the funds raised came from foreign investors, reflecting growing trust in Nigeria’s financial system.

He further noted a significant rise in diaspora remittances, which has strengthened foreign exchange reserves and enhanced economic stability.

“Our focus is to protect the stability achieved so investors can plan with confidence,” Cardoso said, assuring continued transparency, better communication, and higher policy standards.

On digital finance, he said the CBN is working closely with fintech firms to remove regulatory bottlenecks and drive financial inclusion across Nigeria and Africa.

He also stressed the importance of coordination between monetary and fiscal authorities, noting that stronger collaboration is key to sustaining economic growth.

Cardoso added that inflation is easing, exchange rate stability is improving, and ongoing reforms are setting the stage for growth driven by local investment, oil sector reforms, and renewed global confidence.

He concluded by urging global investors to see Nigeria as “an economy to watch,” as reforms shift the country from stabilisation toward investment-driven growth.

Continue reading

at

 

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has disbursed more than N206 billion in student loans across 270 tertiary institutions nationwide.

The agency said the funds were released within 23 months of its launch by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to NELFUND, a total of 1,751,669 applications have been received since the loan portal opened in May 2024, with 1,164,222 students benefiting from the scheme.

Of the total disbursed, N128.84 billion was paid directly to institutions for tuition, while N77.45 billion was provided to students as upkeep allowances to cover academic and living expenses.

The agency also recorded 969 new applications in its latest update, reflecting a 0.1 per cent increase, which it described as continued public interest and trust in the programme.

Speaking on a television programme, NELFUND Managing Director, Akintunde Sawyerr, said the initiative aims to provide interest-free loans to ensure that financial challenges do not prevent students from starting or completing their education.

He assured that no qualified student would be barred from examinations due to lack of funds, while noting that proper checks are in place to ensure transparency and accountability in the disbursement process.

Sawyerr also commended Delta State University, Abraka, for allowing students with verified or approved loan status to sit for examinations upon presenting proof of application, describing it as a student-friendly approach aligned with the scheme’s objectives.

He added that such collaboration supports the broader goal of expanding access to higher education while promoting fairness and inclusiveness.

Meanwhile, the Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) described NELFUND’s performance as a significant milestone in the education sector, noting that over 1.16 million students have benefited in less than two years.

The group highlighted that the loans are interest-free, with repayment beginning two years after completing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), subject to employment, with provisions for deferment where necessary.

TMSG further stated that participation by 270 institutions and over one million students reflects growing acceptance of the scheme and expressed optimism that more beneficiaries will be reached before the end of the administration’s first term.

Continue reading

at

 

The Kano State Government has announced that the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, will lead this year’s Eid-el-Fitr Durbar, even as it unveiled strict guidelines to prevent a breakdown of law and order during the celebrations.

The government said the decision, approved by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, followed credible intelligence reports indicating attempts by some individuals to create unrest during the Sallah period.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the government said it remained committed to preserving Kano’s cultural heritage but would prioritise peace and security.

According to the statement, Hawan Idi (Eid Durbar) will be conducted by Emir Sanusi from the Kofar Mata Eid Ground through designated routes to Gidan Shettima, terminating at Kofar Fatalwa of the emir’s palace.

It added that Hawan Nasarawa would be held in a modified form without horseback displays, while Hawan Daushe, Hawan Fanisau and Hawan Dorayi have been suspended for the time being in the interest of public safety.

The government said all security agencies had been directed to intensify surveillance and ensure strict compliance with the directives before, during and after the festive period.

It urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding and cooperative with security agencies, while cautioning against the spread of unverified information.

The government further assured the public of its commitment to a peaceful and hitch-free Sallah celebration, wishing Muslims in the state a joyous Eid-el-Fitr.

The Durbar, a centuries-old cultural procession, has been thrown into uncertainty following conflicting statements from government officials on whether it will hold this year, given the unresolved legal battle between Sanusi II and Aminu Ado Bayero.

While Governor Yusuf reinstated Sanusi II in 2024, Bayero continues to contest his dethronement in court, leaving the emirship in dispute.

The government recently hinted that the stool controversy would soon be resolved.

Continue reading

at

 

A Federal High Court in Delta State has ruled that Nigerians are legally permitted to record police officers during stop-and-search operations in public spaces.

Justice Hyeladzira Nganjiwa delivered the judgment on Tuesday while ruling on a fundamental rights suit filed by lawyer Maxwell Nosakhare Uwaifo against the Inspector-General of Police, the Nigeria Police Force, the Police Service Commission, and the Attorney-General of the Federation.

Describing the decision as far-reaching, Uwaifo said the court affirmed that “anonymous policing is unconstitutional,” stressing that officers must be identifiable while carrying out public duties.

The case stemmed from the lawyer’s encounter with unidentified officers along the Sapele roundabout in May 2025, where he alleged intimidation and was prevented from recording their actions.

In its ruling, the court held that citizens have a constitutional right under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution to document law enforcement activities in public. It further declared it unlawful for officers to harass, intimidate, arrest, or confiscate devices from individuals for recording them.

Justice Nganjiwa also ruled that police personnel must wear uniforms displaying visible name tags and force numbers during operations, warning that failure to do so violates constitutional provisions.

The court awarded N5 million in damages for the violation of Uwaifo’s rights and an additional N2 million to cover legal costs, reinforcing accountability and transparency in policing.

Continue reading

at

 

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai, working alongside the Nigerian Air Force, have reportedly eliminated at least 61 ISWAP fighters during a failed infiltration attempt in Malam Fatori, Abadam LGA of Borno State.

According to counter-insurgency sources, the insurgents launched a pre-dawn assault on Wednesday, advancing on foot and deploying armed drones in a bid to breach military positions at the 68 Battalion.

However, the attack was met with heavy resistance as troops, backed by precision air strikes, engaged the fighters in a fierce battle. The coordinated ground and air response inflicted significant casualties, forcing the insurgents into a chaotic retreat.

Reports indicate that multiple air interdiction strikes targeted enemy تجمعات, crippling their operational strength and limiting movement. Additional support from Nigerien air forces intensified pressure on the fleeing fighters, though full damage assessments are ongoing.

Despite the intensity of the clash, only four soldiers sustained minor injuries and have since been stabilised.

Continue reading

at

 

The Labour Party (LP) has scheduled May 23, 2026, for its presidential primaries, according to its approved timetable ahead of the 2027 general elections.

This was disclosed in a communiqué issued after a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday, with officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in attendance.

The party also announced that it will submit its membership register to INEC on April 15, 2026. Primaries for governorship, Senate, House of Representatives, and State Houses of Assembly are set for May 15, 2026.

NEC ratified the actions of the party’s national leadership under Senators Nenadi Usman and Darlington Nwochocha, including preparations for ward, local government, and state congresses scheduled for March 26, 28, and 31, 2026, respectively. The party’s National Convention is slated for April 11, 2026.

The council also reviewed recent internal developments, including the reported invasion of the party’s national secretariat by suspected hoodlums allegedly backed by “rogue elements.”

Following recommendations from its Peace, Reconciliation and Disciplinary Committee, NEC approved the suspension of several members over alleged indiscipline, anti-party activities, and involvement in the disruption at the secretariat.

Among those suspended are Eneyi G. Zidougha, Hilda Doukubo, Lincolin Charles, Muhammed Sabitu Aliyu, Ogar Osim, Vincent Okwuokei, Casmir Agbo Uchenna, Simon Zubairu Bamga, Abduljamid Sa’ad Suleiman, Emmanuel Agida, Auwala Ahmed, Ularama Jubrila, Grace Zafara Posat, Suleiman Abdurahman Abdul, Ajibade Adekunle Samson, Alexander Emmanuel Ombugu, Elizabeth Ativie, and Godwin Jioke, among others.

Additionally, NEC approved the ongoing expansion of the party’s membership register using a hybrid system that combines digital registration with manual processes in rural communities. The initiative aims to modernise the party’s database, boost participation, and improve transparency and efficiency in line with the Electoral Act 2026.

The council further resolved that vacant positions within party structures will be temporarily filled through interim appointments to ensure continuity, pending the conduct of formal congresses.

NEC also urged members to utilise internal dispute resolution mechanisms to address grievances, promote unity, and reduce internal conflicts.


Continue reading

at

 

Senegal’s football authorities have vowed to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport after the country was stripped of its Africa Cup of Nations title on Tuesday.

In a statement, the Senegalese Football Federation condemned the ruling as “unjust, unprecedented, and unacceptable,” warning that it damages the reputation of African football. The body said it will move swiftly to file an appeal with CAS in Lausanne to defend the nation’s rights and interests.

The controversy stems from the AFCON final in Rabat on January 18, when several Senegalese players briefly walked off the pitch in protest over a late penalty awarded to hosts Morocco. Although the team later returned and went on to win 1-0 after extra time, CAF ruled in favour of Morocco following an appeal.

CAF declared Senegal to have forfeited the match, awarding Morocco a 3-0 victory in line with competition regulations regarding teams that abandon play without the referee’s approval.

Morocco’s football federation maintained that its appeal was not aimed at disputing the match result but at ensuring the rules were properly applied.

The final was marred by chaotic scenes, including a near pitch invasion by fans and a prolonged stoppage as Senegal’s players protested the penalty decision. Despite the disruption, Senegal had initially secured victory through a late extra-time goal.

Following CAF’s decision, Senegalese players and officials expressed outrage, with the federation insisting it will pursue justice through the appropriate legal channels.

Continue reading

at

 

The legal representatives of the family of late singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, have raised concerns over the capacity of some laboratories selected for the ongoing paternity test involving his son, Liam.

PUNCH Metro gathered this on Tuesday from a statement signed by the family’s counsel, Oladayo Ogungbe, on behalf of the applicant, Joseph Aloba.

Ogungbe disclosed that a court, on February 24, 2026, directed that the Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) test be conducted in three laboratories jointly agreed upon by the parties and the court to ensure transparency and credibility.

The laboratories listed include DNA Diagnostics Centre, Fairfield, Ohio, United States, nominated by the applicant; Alpha Biolabs, Warrington, United Kingdom, nominated by the respondent; and Advanced Histopathology Laboratory Limited, London, United Kingdom, selected by the court through the Social Welfare Officer.

According to the lawyer, preliminary inquiries were made by the applicant’s representatives to verify the technical competence of the laboratories before sample collection commenced.

He, however, said responses from two of the laboratories raised concerns about their ability to conduct the required analysis.

“Prior to the commencement of sample collection, representatives of the applicant made inquiries to ascertain whether the listed laboratories possessed the technical capacity to conduct post-mortem DNA analysis involving tissue extraction from embalmed remains,” the statement read.

“The responses received from Alpha Biolabs and Advanced Histopathology Laboratory Limited indicated that they do not conduct post-mortem DNA testing involving embalmed bodies,” it added.

Ogungbe said the development had been formally brought to the attention of the court through an affidavit.

“In light of these responses, the applicant deemed it necessary to notify the Honourable Court by filing an affidavit of facts,” he stated.

The counsel also dismissed claims that his client deliberately selected unqualified laboratories, noting that only one of the facilities was nominated by the applicant.

“It is incorrect and misleading to suggest that Mr Joseph Aloba deliberately selected laboratories lacking the competence to conduct tissue-based DNA testing.

“He remains committed to due process and to a DNA testing procedure that is transparent, scientifically credible, and in strict compliance with the court’s directive,” the statement added.

A Lagos State Magistrate Court sitting in Ikorodu had earlier ordered DNA tests to determine the paternity of Liam Aloba, the only child of the late singer.

Magistrate Adefisoye Sonuga gave the order while ruling on an application filed by Joseph Aloba, who is seeking to establish whether the child is his late son’s biological offspring.

Mohbad, a fast-rising Afrobeats artiste, died in September 2023 under controversial circumstances, triggering nationwide outrage and multiple legal disputes over his estate, royalties, and paternity.

His son, Liam, was born in April 2023, months before his death. The paternity dispute has since attracted widespread public attention.


Continue reading

at

 

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has already commenced the process of appealing the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, which rejected its petition against the Democratic Republic of Congo on the issue of eligibility of some players used by that country in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Playoff match against Nigeria in Rabat, Morocco on November 16, 2025.

“We have received the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee on our petition, but we are not satisfied with the decision, which rejected our petition. I want to assure Nigerians that the NFF has immediately commenced the process of appealing the decision,” said NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi.

The NFF had presented a petition to world football-governing body, FIFA days after the said match, based on perceived fraud in the issuance of passports that qualified a number of players of the Democratic Republic of Congo for the play-offs.

The match, played at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, was the final of the African Play-offs.

Both teams were level at 1–1 after regulation time and extra time before the Congolese side prevailed in a sudden-death penalty shootout to secure victory.

Nigeria’s protest was based on what the NFF described as perceived fraud in the issuance of passports that enabled a number of DR Congo players to qualify for the playoff.

With the initial complaint now dismissed by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, the NFF will seek a review of the case through the appeal process in an effort to overturn the ruling.


Continue reading

at

 

The Katsina State Government has confirmed the killing of 18 persons during an encounter between members of a vigilante group and ‘repentant bandits’ in Jibia Local Government Area of the state.

The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Muazu, stated in a statement issued on Tuesday in Katsina.

He said that the violent clash occurred in Falale and Kadobe villages in Jibia local government area on March 17.

The commissioner revealed that some members of the vigilante group from the affected villages engaged repentant bandits in a gunfight, resulting in the neutralisation of three suspects.

He said that the incident triggered a violent reprisal attack by suspected bandits on the communities, which resulted in the killing of 15 additional persons in the communities.

Muazu further said that security personnel from the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Civilian Watch (C-Watch), and community leaders worked together and brought the situation under control.

“The joint operation prevented further loss of life and restored peace in the affected villages,” he said.

The commissioner, therefore, appealed to the residents to remain calm and allow security forces to complete their investigation.

“We understand the pain and loss experienced by the families affected. We are committed to ensuring justice and preventing future incidents.

“Gov. Dikko Radda’s administration remains focused on bringing lasting peace to Katsina State.

“Nothing will distract us from our commitment to secure lives and property. We will remain resolute in our efforts,” he assured. (NAN)

Continue reading

at

 

Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau has sacked six of his appointees and suspended one.

Mr Samuel Jatau, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Jos.

Jatau said that the move was part of the government’s efforts towards repositioning it for greater efficiency and effective service delivery.

The affected officials included Mr Timothy Golu, the Special Adviser to the governor on Strategic Communication; Mr Fom Gwottson, the Liaison Officer, Jos South; Mr Nanbol Rimvyat and Mr Nannim Langyi, the Liaison Officers, Langtang North.

Others were Mr Paul Datugum and Nimchat Rims, the Liaison Officers for Qua’an Pan and Langtang South, respectively.

Similarly, the governor suspended Mr Johnbull Shekarau, the Chairman, House of Assembly Service Commission in the state, over conduct that negates the standards of his office.

The SSG directed the affected officials to hand over all government properties in their possession to the appropriate quarters.

Jatau said that the governor, who thanked them for their contribution to his administration, wished the affected persons success in their future endeavours. (NAN)


Continue reading

at
President Bola Tinubu has commiserated with the former minister of innovation, science and technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji on the passing of his mother, Mrs Monica Nnenna Nnaji.

The President in a release signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga mourned the loss with the family of Nnaji and extolled the resilience and sacrifice of their late matriarch, who raised four sons through hard work and discipline.

President Tinubu described her as a woman whose resilience, discipline and sacrifices helped shape the lives of her children and contributed indirectly to national development.

He said the late Mrs. Nnaji lived an exemplary and fulfilled life, raising four sons through hard work and strong values that enabled them to become responsible citizens and contributors to society.

He noted that Mama Nnaji’s dedication to family and her enduring legacy would continue to inspire those who knew her.

The President said her life demonstrated the enduring influence of mothers in shaping families and communities, adding that her children’s achievements stand as testimony to the values she instilled in them.

He also prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed and strength for the family to bear the loss.
Continue reading

at

 

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeal Board has declared Senegal forfeited the AFCON 2025 final, awarding Morocco a 3–0 victory under Article 84 of competition regulations.

A statement on the official CAF website on Tuesday said that the board upheld Morocco’s appeal and set aside the earlier decision of the CAF Disciplinary Board on the final match dispute.

It ruled Senegal’s conduct breached Articles 82 and 84, validating Morocco’s protest and confirming the forfeiture decision in favour of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football.

The board also found the Fédération Sénégalaise de Football infringed Article 82 through its team’s conduct during the disputed match.

All other motions and requests for relief relating to the main appeal were dismissed by the CAF Appeal Board.

On Morocco’s player Ismaël Saibari, the board upheld misconduct findings but reduced sanctions to a two-match suspension, with one match suspended.

The board also cancelled the earlier fine of 100,000 dollars imposed on the player.

CAF held Morocco responsible for the ball boys’ conduct but reduced the fine to 50,000 dollars.

The appeal on interference around the OFR/VAR review area was dismissed, with the 100,000-dollar fine upheld.

However, the fine for the laser incident involving Morocco was reduced to 10,000 dollars, while other requests were dismissed. (NAN)

Continue reading

at

 

The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it has seized 3,398 cartons of Codeine Syrup worth N3.39 billion.

According to Mr Isa Sulaiman, its Public Relations Officer, the feat was achieved in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Sulaiman, in a statement on Tuesday, quoted Mr Emmanuel Oshoba, the Customs Area Controller, as saying that the interception took place “in a swift follow-up operation on Sunday, March 15, 2026”.

“The consignment was in 3,398 cartons carefully concealed in household utensils; it had a duty value of N3.39 billion,” Oshoba further explained.

Oshoba was further quoted as declaring that the seizure “serves as a clear demonstration of the command’s unwavering commitment to the directives and vision of the NCS”.

“This seizure comes just five days after Mr Bashir Adeniyi, the Comptroller-General of the NCS, visited the Apapa Command and sent a strong warning to criminal elements,” he noted.

Oshoba said that the Area Command was “fully aligned with the NCS intelligence-led enforcement strategy and will continue to make Apapa Port extremely hostile to smugglers and drug traffickers”.

He commended the NDLEA for its seamless collaboration and unwavering support that made the operation successful.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that Adeniyi, the NCS boss, recently visited the Apapa Port and declared that it was no longer a playground for smugglers or criminal syndicates.(NAN)


Continue reading

at

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu have arrived in the United Kingdom, marking the beginning of a historic state visit—the first by a Nigerian leader in over three decades.

The presidential aircraft touched down at Stansted Airport shortly after 3:00 p.m. local time on Tuesday, officially kicking off the high-profile diplomatic engagement.

The visit, extended by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, is particularly significant as it marks the first Nigerian state visit to the UK since 1989—and the first time a Nigerian leader will be hosted at Windsor Castle.

During the two-day stay from March 18 to 19, President Tinubu is expected to engage in a series of high-level diplomatic and economic activities. These include a bilateral meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, where discussions will centre on strengthening bilateral relations.

The visit is set to yield major outcomes, including the signing of key agreements covering trade, investment, defence, and cultural cooperation. A major highlight will be the witnessing of a £746 million financing deal between UK Export Financeand Nigerian authorities to support the rehabilitation of critical port infrastructure.

President Tinubu will also attend the Nigerian Modernism exhibition, celebrating the country’s rich artistic heritage, and participate in a reception with British and Nigerian business leaders, alongside members of the diaspora.

In a further demonstration of shared values, both leaders are expected to engage with organisations promoting interfaith dialogue on a global scale.

The President is accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and key cabinet members, underscoring the strategic importance Nigeria attaches to the visit.

This landmark trip is widely seen as a pivotal moment in Nigeria-UK relations, with expectations high for strengthened economic ties and deeper diplomatic cooperation.

THE PUNCH


Continue reading

at

 

Governor Chukwuma Soludo has declared that the long-standing Monday sit-at-home in Anambra State is now a thing of the past, highlighting significant improvements in security.

Speaking at his inauguration for a second term on Tuesday, Soludo pointed to milestones such as the dismantling of criminal camps and the “mass return” of Anambra indigenes during the Yuletide as evidence of enhanced safety in the state.

“The debilitating Monday sit-at-home is over. Our schools, markets, businesses, and public offices are fully operational. Reports indicate that Anambra is now among the safest states in Nigeria,” Soludo, a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), told an audience that included former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Olusegun Obasanjo, as well as Vice President Kashim Shettima.

He added, “Many of you arrived in Anambra yesterday, even on a Monday. That would have been impossible in the past.”

The event took place at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the state capital.

Continue reading
Subscribe to: Comments (Atom)