Index to Nigerian Newspapers

The Rivers State High Court has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of three expatriates staff of Saipem, Giandomenico Zingali, Vitto Testaguzza and Davide Anelli, over an alleged conspiracy to cheat and defraud the Government of Rivers State of the sum of $130 million USD, being advanced payment for the construction of the OCGT power plant in Port Harcourt. The lead counsel to the Rivers State Government, Chief Godwin Obla, SAN, prayed that those absent be tried in absentia since they have been duly served court processes. The Rivers State Government had a contract with Saipem SPA and Saipem Contracting Nigeria Ltd in respect of Turbines and their building in Afam 11 in Oyigbo local government area of Rivers State, but the work did not progress beyond 40% of the contract sum. Forensic analysis revealed criminal infractions and charges have been brought against the company and individuals working with the company.

Pundits and economists alike are waiting to see which side will prevail 10 years after protests against petrol subsidy removal empowered the present ruling party. Despite fears of repercussions, some economists and stakeholders agree that removal of the subsidy is a necessary step towards long-needed reform. However, the feasibility of the plans to give transportation grants to poor Nigerians has raised doubts on the source of funds and impact on the volume of money in circulation, as well as transparency and accountability issues. President Muhammadu Buhari's administration has decided to remove the subsidy this year and damn the consequences to free up resources needed to run the economy. A panel chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo will meet with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and other stakeholders to consider the proposed N5,000 transport palliative and other options aimed at ameliorating the effects of the planned subsidy removal on Nigerians. The options remain hard as labour unions are already up in arms to protest if the decision on subsidy removal is taken.

Fifty children were feared trapped when a building housing a satellite church of Salvation Ministries collapsed during evening service at Okpanam in Oshimili North Local Council of Delta State. The 10-year-old building was initially designed as a plaza before the church occupied the upper chamber and started to reshape it to suit its purpose. It finally caved in while it was undergoing reconstructions by the new owner, who allegedly bought the building at the rate of N300 million. About 15 women and 20 children have been rescued, but it could not be immediately ascertained whether they were still alive as they were being rolled into ambulances. A woman, who was wailing beyond control at the scene, said her three children were among those trapped in the building.

Yesterday, 19 people lost their lives in a fatal traffic mishap in Bagauda village, close to the Nigerian Law School's Kano campus, while 26 other people were injured, adult females, elderly men, an infant, and his mother were among those killed in the collision. 45 passengers from two commercial buses with the registration numbers KBT 152 XA and NSR 275 ZX collided and caught fire in the mishap. zubairu Mato, the FRSC's Kano Sector Commander, provided journalists with confirmation of the event. Mato attributed the collision to speeding recklessly and going too fastAccording to him, out of the 45 passengers, 14 adult males, four adult females, and one male child perished in the crash, while 26 others suffered severe injuries. Based on the industry

Asiwaju Bola Tinubu's visit to President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa last Monday caused a political earthquake in Nigeria, with the debate over which zone should fly the party's flag in the 2023 Presidential poll. Chief David Nweze Umahi, chairman of the Southeast Governors' Forum, announced his participation in the Presidential contest, raising the tempo of Southeast's clamour for a repeat of the 1999 zoning plan. Tinubu was seen as the prime mover of the merger arrangement among various former opposition parties into an amalgam mega party that ended up defeating PDP in the 2015 Presidential poll. Tinubu's presidential ambition was a source of unease within the governing APC due to his Muslim religious background, and former Sokoto State governor Dr. Attahiru Bafarawa regretted that Tinubu began making covert manoeuvres to ensure credible leaders were sidelined. However, Tinubu supported the admission of members of newPDP, led by Atiku Abubakar, to weaken the ruling party and boost his chances of winning.

Governor of Ebonyi State, Dave Umahi, has joined the 2023 presidential election race, declaring his decision to vie for the number one seat. He met behind closed doors with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, and said he would not be weighed down by Tinubu's entry into the race. He argued that the opposition party was not ready to cede the 2023 ticket to the Southeast, and that he stands a better chance if the APC throws the ticket open. He also proposed a political solution to the prevailing insecurity in the Southeast, which he said should not interfere with the judicial process. Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has declared his readiness to contest the APC Presidential ticket in 2023, if the party zones it to the South. He believes his own region, the Southeast, is ripe for the Presidency and has all it takes to match Tinubu's grit for grit and campaign for campaign.

Lawmakers from the North-east geopolitical zone, under the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), have endorsed the 2023 presidential aspiration of Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State. They also called on the leadership of the APC to zone the presidency to the Northern region of the country for fairness and equity. They also passed a vote of confidence in President Muhammadu Buhari for his sterling and cohesive leadership of Nigeria. The state Assembly legislators of the North-east zone passed a vote of confidence in the Governor Mai Mala Buni Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee for its aggressive repositioning of the All Progressives Congress, and urged the Committee to do more. They also endorsed the aspiration of Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello of Kogi State, and called on the leadership of APC to zone the presidency to the north of the country. The communique was signed by Hon. Abubakar Sadiq Ibrahim, Gombe State (Chairman of the Communique Committee), Hon. Bashir Mohammed, Taraba State (member); Hon. Nasir Abdulrahim (member); and Hon. Abutakar Shellong, Adamawa State (member).

Lawmakers from the North-east geopolitical zone, under the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), have endorsed the 2023 presidential aspiration of Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State. They also called on the leadership of the APC to zone the presidency to the Northern region of the country for fairness and equity. They also passed a vote of confidence in President Muhammadu Buhari for his sterling and cohesive leadership of Nigeria. The state Assembly legislators of the North-east zone passed a vote of confidence in the Governor Mai Mala Buni Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee for its aggressive repositioning of the All Progressives Congress, and urged the Committee to do more. They also endorsed the aspiration of Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello of Kogi State, and called on the leadership of APC to zone the presidency to the north of the country. The communique was signed by Hon. Abubakar Sadiq Ibrahim, Gombe State (Chairman of the Communique Committee), Hon. Bashir Mohammed, Taraba State (member); Hon. Nasir Abdulrahim (member); and Hon. Abutakar Shellong, Adamawa State (member).

The year 2022 has begun on a breezy note, with aspirants for elective offices at various levels making their intentions public. Alhassan Ado Garba, chief whip of the House of Representatives, recently announced the expansion of his family, from 27 to 28 children, and Yemi Osinbajo, the incumbent occupant of the office, is yet to make his intentions public. This has led to a bouquet of melodramas and comedies from the political front, which compels us to ruminate about the species of leaders we voted to serve us. Patrick Obahiagbon, Muhammed Gudaji Kazaure Danbatta, and Yakubu Doguwa have all provided succour to Nigerians in various ways, such as their grammatical bombast, molar-cracking lexical combinations, and explosive constructions. These have been instrumental in assuaging the nation's ever-increasing political temperature.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) publicly presented the Strategic Agenda for the Naira (SAN) in 2007, which aimed to lay the monetary foundation for a prosperous economy and become one of the world's 20 largest economies by 2020. However, the fate of the SAN was hung on the observation by the Attorney-General that former President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua had not received a procedural request for presidential approval of the redenomination of the naira. This effectively became the government policy choice, depriving Nigerians of the most important function of a central bank and its related duties. The initial SAN proposal deserves amendment, as the money illusion weighed heavily against it. The suspension of SAN has made it impossible to achieve any of the objectives set for 2020, but several lessons have become manifest, such as prolongation of the termite-like weakening of the naira economy through multiple currency co-habitation.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) publicly presented the Strategic Agenda for the Naira (SAN) in 2007, which aimed to lay the monetary foundation for a prosperous economy and become one of the world's 20 largest economies by 2020. However, the fate of the SAN was hung on the observation by the Attorney-General that former President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua had not received a procedural request for presidential approval of the redenomination of the naira. This effectively became the government policy choice, depriving Nigerians of the most important function of a central bank and its related duties. The initial SAN proposal deserves amendment, as the money illusion weighed heavily against it. The suspension of SAN has made it impossible to achieve any of the objectives set for 2020, but several lessons have become manifest, such as prolongation of the termite-like weakening of the naira economy through multiple currency co-habitation.

Nigerians have been neglected in all fronts since independence, including politics, education, healthcare, housing, transportation, and agriculture. The Buhari administration's food sufficiency strategy was designed to increase mechanised farming, but the rising insecurity in the country and the wobbling one step forward, two steps backwards makes it difficult to achieve the dream. It is important to have faith in the government and not to join forces with those who see only a bleak future. Nigeria is the only country in Africa that allows the uncontrolled use of pesticides and harmful agrochemicals on consumables, despite the health implications. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration (NAFDAC) has stated that global restriction is done in the interest of safety, but the inability to have the political will to halt importation of these chemicals could be dangerous for Nigerians.

The Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) Nigeria has launched a probe into a Bell 429 helicopter crash that occurred at Bauchi Airport. The helicopter, owned and operated by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), crashed Wednesday night with its six occupants severely injured. The aircraft was involved in a controlled safe landing at the Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport, Bauchi, and none of the occupants sustained any injury. The AIB is seeking any video clips, evidence, or information on the accident that could assist the investigation. Meanwhile, hazy weather disrupted flight schedules at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano, leading to the early airlift of passengers on Azman Air, Max Air and a few chartered flights.

The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health has raised the alarm over the prevalence of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) in 11 councils of the state, with four council areas being endemic to Onchocerciasis (River Blindness), soil-transmitted Helminthiasisis (intestinal worms), Schistosomiasis or snail fever with water snail as vector, and Lymphatic Filariasis or elephantiasis. The most affected council areas are Ibeno, Ibiono Ibom and Ika. Uwa urged partnership with the media, private sector, and entrepreneurs to help the vulnerable.

The death of Professor Alex Gboyega, a retired professor of political science at the University of Ibadan, is the latest in a series of deaths of prominent Nigerians that have overshadowed the month of January 2022. Gboyega emerged from the former University of Ife scholar-practitioner framework of engagement, which demanded that there must be serious attention given to recruitment in a way that adds to the functionality of the institute of administration as a complement of the practice of public administration in the public service. His specialization straddled local governance, public administration and indigenous political institutions, telling a coherent and significant story about his research portfolio. The challenge of deploying the federal framework as the most formidable structure within which Nigeria could achieve national integration and development is highlighted by Alex Gboyega's 1981 essay and 2003 inaugural lecture. Contrary to the 1976 local government reform enshrined in the 1979 Constitution, the present state of the local governments and local governance is dismal due to the absence of local governance and its distinctive elements.

Forer for Transportation in Rivers State, Tolafari Georgmer Commission e, has debunked claims that former state governor Rotimi Amaechi abandoned the state's aircraft in Germany, saying the aircraft was never abandoned but put up for sales to generate revenue for critical infrastructural projects. George accused the Rivers State government of falsely accusing him of wanting to steal the Legacy aircraft, and questioned why they are still using the same foreign registration seven years after taking possession. He described the issue as "purely political and vindictive".

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has chosen February 26 for its national convention, but stakeholders have warned against forcing the party to hold an exercise that could further polarise members. Chairman of the CECPC and Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, acknowledged the roles played by women during electioneering process, but warned against using the convention as a ruse to create a parallel national executive. The CECPC is planning to have a successful convention, but it is impossible due to by-elections and the wife of the President, Aisha Buhari, has called for better political deals for women. The APC Rebirth Group has flayed the governors over the circumstances leading to the resignation of the Director-General of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), Dr. Salihu Lukman.

Election malfeasance can take a variety of forms, such as intimidation of voters, violence against candidates and their supporters, and outright election fraud. It can distort and destabilize democracy, affect electoral outcomes, and shape the extent to which elections facilitate subsequent political and social stability. To mitigate election fraud and gain citizen's confidence, election forensics is paramount. The most important details in this text are that accurate information on electoral irregularities can help separate false accusations from true evidence of electoral malfeasance, provide election monitors with a better gauge of the quality of elections, and help bolster the activities of election monitors and pro-democracy organizations. Ideally, a method for detecting electoral fraud should meet each of the following criteria: it should be sensitive enough to detect anomalies, accurately detect anomalies, involve systematic observation, enable the identification of where anomalies have occurred, and produce estimates of uncertainty.

The novel coronavirus, COVID-19, has caused many people to question their social actions in the face of it. Despite being anti-COVID-19 compliant, people still gather together at social gatherings, even when the menu is missing. The Merriam Webster dictionary has added new words to its treasure trove of neologisms, such as social distancing, index case and super spreader, and the French Academy has concluded that the linguistic gender is feminine and coronavirus is masculine. People have postponed their weddings because they want to have a wedding with the usual crowd, and some have whittled down their wedding size to a unitary number, not even double digits. However, the virus is still the unseen enemy that has even reinforced itself by mutating into different variants now present in more than 60 countries. The national call to link our National Identification Number (NIN) to our phone numbers is a temptation to kiss the virus, and the new variants are more transmissible. Vaccines are being rolled out, and getting vaccines is not an open season to attending social engagements.

The novel coronavirus, COVID-19, has caused many people to question their social actions in the face of it. Despite being anti-COVID-19 compliant, people still gather together at social gatherings, even when the menu is missing. The Merriam Webster dictionary has added new words to its treasure trove of neologisms, such as social distancing, index case and super spreader, and the French Academy has concluded that the linguistic gender is feminine and coronavirus is masculine. People have postponed their weddings because they want to have a wedding with the usual crowd, and some have whittled down their wedding size to a unitary number, not even double digits. However, the virus is still the unseen enemy that has even reinforced itself by mutating into different variants now present in more than 60 countries. The national call to link our National Identification Number (NIN) to our phone numbers is a temptation to kiss the virus, and the new variants are more transmissible. Vaccines are being rolled out, and getting vaccines is not an open season to attending social engagements.

Watford list Emmanuel Dennis as their leading scorer against Tottenham, while Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is isolated after testing positive for COVID. Ainsley Maitland-Niles may return to contention after recovering from COVID, while Manchester City could welcome back Kyle Walker and John Stones and Rodri. Tom Cleverley has recovered from a hamstring strain, but Kiko Femenia will miss out with a similar issue. Steven Bergwijn, Cristian Romero and Ryan Sessegnon remain sidelined.

The financial stress index is rising due to rising political tension and the 2022 budget, which was grudgingly signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari. The spending outlay was raised by a whopping N735 billion, with a near 40 per cent fiscal deficit stuffed into the budget. Last year, the gross domestic product (GDP) broke a six-year record as it jumped by 5.01 per cent year-on-year, consolidating the positive growth that started in the fourth quarter of 2020. This leg-up performance came two quarters after the country exited one of the deepest recessions in its history. The growth rate in Q3 of 2021 moderated to 4.03%, reflecting the effect of the gradual reopening of the economy in the comparative quarter in 2020. The sectoral performances, as contained in last year's growth data and other recent ones, underscore an economy that is not only bleeding but also deeply flawed by many contradictions.

EFCC witness Chidi Eboigbe told the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory that former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, was not reported to law enforcement agents because there was nowhere in a statement of account that showed Lawal carried out any transaction for a company. Rholavision Engineering Company is one of five defendants standing trial in the ongoing alleged N544 million contract infractions.

The crisis rocking the Ibadan chieftaincy institution appeared to have been resolved after members of the Olubadan-in-Council agreed to drop their titles. The Osi-Balogun Olubadan, High Chief Tajudeen Ajibola, said they agreed with Governor Seyi Makinde's decision to revert to the original concept. The controversy began in 2017 when the administration of the late former Governor Abiola Ajimobi embarked on reform of the ancient Ibadan traditional system, which culminated in elevation of High Chiefs to Royal Majesties and Baales to Royal Highnesses. Despite the then government's position that all stakeholders should be carried along, the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji and Osi-Olubadan, who is also a former governor in the state, Rashidi Ladoja, opposed the reform. Makinde publicly denounced the reform made by his predecessor.

Gunmen invaded Gbagyi Villa, a community on the way to Kaduna Refinery, on Monday night, killing one person and kidnapping a pregnant wife, children and others. Nigerian army personnel engaged them in a heavy gunfight that lasted over an hour. The wife of the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Plateau State Deputy Governor, Dorcas Silas Vem, was released and a Director of the MoH, Dr. Simon Audu, regained his freedom. Simon Lalong, Plateau State Governor, has vowed to make the state uninhabitable for criminals following recent cases of ritual killings and kidnapping. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged security agencies to invite leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for questioning over their alleged connections with terrorists.

President Muhammadu Buhari has appointed Dr. Doyin Salami to serve as his first Chief Economic Adviser. Salami, 59, is expected to address all issues on the domestic economy and present views to the President. He is expected to closely monitor national and international developments, trends, and develop appropriate policy responses and make recommendations to the President. He is also expected to pay attention to national economic policies to foster macro-economic stability, promote growth, create jobs, and eradicate poverty. Buhari has set a record as the first President since 1999 to have led the country without CEAP. Former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, and Dr. Goodluck Jonathan all appointed CEAP. BALA Zaka believes the decision is not too late and that if he succeeds, someone else can take over from him.

Professor Bolaji Akinyemi has just been enrolled as a member of the octogenarian club and Nigerians are celebrating him on various platforms. His contributions to Nigeria's development span the space of diplomacy, international relations, foreign policy, and domestic affairs. He was born in 1942 just as the bombs of the Second World War were dropping, and his path to good education was paved early. He became a professor of political science at age 41 and was chosen by General Murtala Muhammed to give muscle to the dynamic foreign policy he dreamt of for Nigeria. Akinyemi was appointed Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) at the young age of 33. He introduced bilateral dialogue with the Soviet Union, the Chinese, and the United States, Scandinavia and Brazil. He also introduced a town-and-gown forum called the Nigerian Forum, which was headed by the Director General and made up of eggheads in the foreign policy space and journalists. The forum discussed mainly foreign policy issues, but sometimes sank its credibility.

 

President Muhammadu Buhari ensured that two significant federal highways currently under building, Sagamu-Benin and Lagos-Ibadan, will be completed this year by launching five projects in Ogun State yesterday.
Buhari praised the governor of Ogun, Dapo Abiodun, for providing the people with visionary leadership and ground-breaking initiatives despite the difficult conditions brought on by the Coronavirus Disease. (COVID-19). The President hailed Abiodun as a good example of "promises made, promises kept," referring to him as the "Performing Governor of Nigeria's Gateway State."
Buhari noted that the Gateway City Gate, the 42km Sagamu Interchange/Abeokuta Road, the 14km Ijebu-Ode/Epe Expressway and two housing estates for low, medium and high-income earners at Kobape and Oke-Mosan respectively, could not have materialised without the government’s commitment to security of lives and property.

 

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the establishment of the Nigerian Diaspora Investment Trust Fund (NDITF) to support direct investments from Nigerians abroad. He also pledged support for the floating of the Diaspora Intervention Fund to support the commission. He described the 327-page compendium as a "historical record of the worth of our compatriots globally" and reminded Nigerians that it is their duty to extol and celebrate compatriots that excel in their chosen careers and professions. The President congratulated those whose names made it to the first edition of the compendium of excellent Nigerians and encouraged others to work more conscientiously to make the list in the subsequent editions. He also commended the Abike Dabiri-Erewa-led NiDCOM for its energy and innovative steps to ensure better engagements with the Diaspora community. The commission plans to publish the compendium at regular intervals to change the negative stereotypes typified by a few Nigerians who do not represent the country well.

President Muhammadu Buhari declared that nobody could love Mali more than Malians themselves, and counselled on the need for everyone to work within the tenets of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to restore constitutional order to the landlocked nation. Mali's interim authorities have proposed to its West African neighbours that a transition back to democracy be extended by five years, 18 months after Colonel Assimi Goita championed the overthrow of President Boubacar Ibrahim Keita. Nigeria will work within ECOWAS limitations to assist Mali, and the Special Envoy expressed gratitude to Nigeria for its support to his country in terms of bilateral relations and for the help rendered to the ECOWAS Mediation Team.

President Muhammadu Buhari has appointed Senator Margrey Chuba-Okadigbo as Board Chairman of NNPC, replacing Senator Ifeanyi Ararume. Other board members include Mele Kolo Kyari, Umar Ajiya, Dr. Tajudeen Umar, Mrs. Lami Ahmed, Mallam Mohammed Lawal, Henry Obih, Constance Harry Marshal, and Chief Pius Akinyelure. The PDP has described the appointment of Dr. Doyin Salami as a "scapegoat" for the APC government's failures. The main opposition party, the APC, has appointed Executive Commissioners of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority. These include Francis Alabo Ogaree, Mustapha Lamorde, Mansur Kuliya, Bashir Sadiq, and Dr. Zainab Gobir. New council members for the Midstream and Downstream Infrastructure Fund include Effiong Abia, Bobboi Ahmed, and Abdullahi Bukar.

President Muhammadu Buhari has signed into law the 2022 Appropriation Bill and the 2021 Finance Bill, restoring the January to December fiscal year as provided for in the country's Constitution. The President signed the documents in the Presidential Villa at a ceremony witnessed by the President of the Senate, Ahmed Lawan, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila. The 2022 Budget provides for aggregate expenditures of N17.127 trillion, an increase of N735.85 billion over the initial Executive Proposal for a total expenditure of N16.391 trillion. President Buhari expressed strong reservations over what he described as the "worrisome changes" made by the National Assembly to the 2022 Executive Budget proposal, and announced the decision to revert to the National Assembly. President Buhari expressed his reservations about changes to the 2022 Executive Budget proposal, such as an increase in projected FGN Independent Revenue by N400 billion, reduction in the provision for Sinking Fund to Retire Maturing Bonds by N22 billion, and reduction of the provisions for the Non-Regular Allowances of the Nigerian Police Force and the Nigerian Navy by N15 billion and N5 billion respectively. He also raised worries about an increase of N21.72 billion in the overhead budgets of some MDAs, while the sum of N1.96 billion was cut from the provision for some MDAs.

President Muhammadu Buhari, National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have paid tribute to Otunba Christopher Alao-Akala, a former Governor of Oyo State, who passed away yesterday aged 71. Makinde abruptly ended the 2022 Inter-faith Prayer Service as the news broke, while Tinubu called for a minute's silence and condoled with the immediate family members of the former governor, his political associates and residents of the state. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, Chairman of South West Governors' Forum and Ondo State Governor, described the death of Chief Adebayo Alao-Akala as a personal loss and urged family and associates to take solace in the good legacies he left behind. He commiserated with Governor Seyi Makinde, the government and people of Oyo State, friends, associates and admirers of the deceased politician, and his Ogun State counterpart, Adegboyega Oyetola, who described the death as a rude shock. Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, also expressed his condolences.

Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji died aged 93 at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan, palace spokesman said. President Muhammadu Buhari, National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde have expressed grief over the late monarch's death. Barring any unforeseen development, Dr. Lekan Balogun, who turns 80 this year, will be the youngest Olubadan in recent history. President urges discretion in selection of new monarch as odds favour Balogun. President Muhammadu Buhari, National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, have expressed grief over the death of the 41st Olubadan of Ibadan and Chairman, Oyo State Council of Chiefs, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji.A statement issued, yesterday, by the palace spokesman, Adeola Oloko, confirmed that Oba Adetunji died aged 93 at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.The late monarch ascended the throne in March 2016, after the death of his predecessor, Oba Samuel Odulana, who died at 101. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has expressed sadness over the death of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Adetunji. The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, has commiserated with the Oduduwa race worldwide, over the passing of the monarch. Oyo State Governor Abiola Makinde has described the late king as an "exemplary royalty, a great leader and an exemplary royal father".

Bismarck Rewane, Managing Director of Financial Derivatives Company Ltd and economist, has projected the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will spend between $8 and $10 billion to defend the naira this year, which would drag the country's gross external reserves to between $30 and $32 billion. The FX market could face pressure in the short term, but Rewane sees the effective exchange rate gaining as the differential between the official and parallel market rates narrows. The CBN's policy direction will be influenced by global developments and the adoption of its crawling peg strategy. Bisi Adeyemi, President and Council Chairman of NBCC, highlighted the challenges posed by an unstable global market and the implications for Nigerian businesses. Rewane said inflation would accelerate in the first half of the year before decelerating, warning that it was not in the interest of the country to continue to churn out data with integrity issues. Ben Llewellyn-Jones, British Deputy High Commissioner, underscored the strong bilateral ties between the two countries and the UK's commitment to strengthening existing trade relations.

The Southeast group, Cultural Credibility Development Initiative, has complained to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) about the 'strangulation of Igbo land with checkpoints' and the "suffocation caused by the humongous number of checkpoints in Igboland". The group has demanded that these 'security' posts be reduced by 75 per cent. Security officers at checkpoints have been accused of human rights abuse, including whipping women and searching traditional rulers. Vehicles, from motorcycles to large trucks, are forced to pay varying sums according to type and size of goods. The question is how can the security agencies receive cooperation and intelligence while they behave in ways that generate distrust and ill feeling against them? Modern technology has reduced the human factor in checking people and vehicles for illegal items, but those who would gain from not adopting this method will not let it happen. The menace of extortionate security men at checkpoints is nationwide, and police chiefs have directed their officers and men to desist from mounting checkpoints unless they are approved for specific reasons. In late September 2017, IGP Ibrahim Idris ordered that checkpoints be dismantled to ensure ease of business and free passage of goods and travellers.

Femi Bamisile, a member of the House of Representatives and governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, has warned that there will be consequences if the party fails to pick its candidate from Ekiti South Senatorial District for the June 18, 2022 poll. Pastor Yemi Olayinka, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has urged the Iyorchia Ayu-led national leadership of the party to adopt direct or super delegates primary to pick the party's standard bearer, saying the option will make PDP to survive litigations that can result from other options.

Monkeys from the Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC) have become a menace for residents of Lekki community on Lagos Island, raiding their homes to steal and eat human food. The residents have complained to the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, but no serious effort has been made to tackle the menace. The community is blaming the invasion of residents' homes on an alleged failure by LCC to pay attention to the feeding of the animals or design a way of preventing them from encroaching on the humans' space. The menace is becoming scarier with reports that monkeys harbour some zoonotic diseases, including monkeypox and Herbesvirus B (Virus B). Herpesvirus B spreads from infected macaque monkeys to human beings. The Guardian visited the affected areas of Chevron Estate and Orchid Road in Lekki, where residents reported seeing monkeys daily. Non-harvesting of the monkeys had led to an increase in the population and cases of conflicts. Experts said there is a need to determine the ideal population of monkeys that could be sustained without harming or disturbing residents of the neighbouring communities, or leading to human-monkey conflict.

The turnout at the recently concluded climate summit was impressive, but whether countries redeem their pledges has nothing to do with international politics. Climate change has been attributed to human activities, but naturally occurring events like volcanoes have not been included. An abundance of greenwashing technological solutions is being proposed to replace fossil fuel, such as hydrogen produced from water by electrolysis using renewable energy. However, the technology to capture and store greenhouse gases is unproven and will be expensive, so the hydrogen drive hides major pollution risks. We are where we are today because of technological solutions to cater for growing human population demand and lifestyle, which have damaged the world in two main ways: pollution and depletion of natural resources. Air pollution and water pollution are caused by technologies such as the burning of fossil fuels, factories, power stations, mass agriculture and vehicles. Water pollution is caused by domestic waste, industrial effluents and insecticides and pesticides, while resource depletion is caused by agriculture, mining, water usage and consumption of fossil fuels.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has released its global risks report, which highlights the challenges of climate change, cyber-security and space as emerging risks to global economic recovery. Climate change was identified as the number one danger, while erosion of social cohesion, livelihood crises and mental health deterioration were also identified as risks. Extreme weather conditions were seen as the world's biggest risk in the short term and a failure of climate action in the medium and long term. The report also highlights other areas of emerging risks, such as a disorderly climate transition, migration pressures and competition in space. The report was produced together with Zurich, Marsh McLennan and South Korea's SK Group.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has released its global risks report, which highlights the challenges of climate change, cyber-security and space as emerging risks to global economic recovery. Climate change was identified as the number one danger, while erosion of social cohesion, livelihood crises and mental health deterioration were also identified as risks. Extreme weather conditions were seen as the world's biggest risk in the short term and a failure of climate action in the medium and long term. The report also highlights other areas of emerging risks, such as a disorderly climate transition, migration pressures and competition in space. The report was produced together with Zurich, Marsh McLennan and South Korea's SK Group.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has alerted Nigerians to a new high-risk Short Messaging Service-based malware, TangleBot, which infects Android mobile devices. TangleBot is installed when an unsuspecting user clicks on a malicious link disguised as COVID-19 vaccination appointment-related information or information about fake local power outages. The malware gains access to several different permissions when installed on a device, allowing it to eavesdrop on user communications and steal sensitive data stored on the device. It also takes complete control of the targeted device, including access to banking data, and can reach the deepest recesses of the Android operating system. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has urged telecom consumers to be wary of cybercriminals, and MTN Nigeria Communications Plc (MTN) has declared a turnover of N1.7 trillion for the year 2021. MTN is proposing a final dividend of N8.57 per 2 kobo ordinary shares for the period, and its profit before tax stood at N436.7 billion, while profit after tax accelerated 45.5% to N298.7 billion. EBITDA grew by 27.9% to N877.1 billion, and MTNN cited an extension of its coverage areas for 4G services as the catalyst.

Prof. Attahiru Jega, former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has called on the National Assembly and President Muhammadu Buhari to pass the Electoral Bill so that INEC can prepare for the 2023 elections. He argued that there are many good things in the bill that will improve the integrity and conduct of elections, such as direct and indirect primaries, and the question of how many parties have a credible register of members. Yiaga Africa Executive Director, Samson Itodo, has called on the National Assembly to give INEC the law to begin preparations for the 2023 elections. He lamented that the commission has a short period to put a lot of its mechanisms together for the conduct of the elections, but NASS only approved 25 of the recommendations. The governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, has also said that the 36 governors are not afraid of direct primary as alleged by some Nigerians. The town hall meeting will discuss key provisions of the Electoral Bill and their implications for election management, election security, electoral integrity and voter participation.

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) arrested a skit maker, Sunday Joshua, popularly known on social media as De-General, following the raid of a notorious drug joint at Orchid Estate, Lekki area of Lagos State. His arrest sparked controversy among his friends, who claimed he was set up and his phone damaged during his confrontation with operatives. However, spokesperson for the agency, Femi Babafemi, said narcotics officers, acting on credible intelligence, stormed the drug joint and arrested three suspects with illicit drugs. The search led to the recovery of drug exhibits including cannabis Sativa, Tramadol 225mg, and paraphernalia for drug use. The video trending on social media was the moment the suspect and his friends disrupted the bid to conduct a search of the house. The comedian was seen live on Instagram before his arrest, confronting NDLEA officers at his residence. His friend Amodu Ayodeji Peter, known as Ayothecreator, said that the comedian was set up as he does not do drugs. Debo Adedayo, known as Mr. Macaroni, said that Nigerian youths suffer oppression and brutality due to their popularity.

The Chairman of Emohua local government area of Rivers State, Chidi Lloyd, has uncovered an illegal mortuary at Elele-Alimini General Hospital, where kidnap victims who died in the custody of their abductors are usually deposited. He also uncovered a depot operated by illegal petroleum refiners inside the hospital, and ordered for immediate investigation and prosecution of the arrested suspects to establish the ownership of the oil bunkering sites. He expressed worries over the complicit silence of the leadership of the community, and ordered the security personnel to search the entire hospital. He also arrested two drivers who were caught transporting illegally refined petroleum products at Rumuekpe junction along the East-West road.

The Chairman of Emohua local government area of Rivers State, Chidi Lloyd, has uncovered an illegal mortuary at Elele-Alimini General Hospital, where kidnap victims who died in the custody of their abductors are usually deposited. He also uncovered a depot operated by illegal petroleum refiners inside the hospital, and ordered for immediate investigation and prosecution of the arrested suspects to establish the ownership of the oil bunkering sites. He expressed worries over the complicit silence of the leadership of the community, and ordered the security personnel to search the entire hospital. He also arrested two drivers who were caught transporting illegally refined petroleum products at Rumuekpe junction along the East-West road.

The High Court of Abia State ordered the Federal Government to pay N1 billion compensation to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, for the violation of his fundamental rights, including the illegal invasion of his country home in September 2017 by the military. Kanu had sought N5 billion compensation and apology from the government and urged the court to declare that the invasion of his home was illegal, unlawful, unconstitutional and amounts to infringement of his rights to life, dignity of his person, his personal liberty and fair hearing. However, defendants raised preliminary objections to the jurisdiction of the state high court to entertain matters pertaining to the Federal Government. The court held that it had jurisdiction to hear the matter, condemned the invasion of Kanu's family house by the military and struck out Kanu's prayers to declare his repatriation from Kenya and continued detention as illegal. The Nigerian Army responded to the judgment by saying it would study the decision to know the next line of action. Kanu asked the Federal High Court to discharge and acquit him of the 15-count criminal charges, arguing that they were defective and have no force of law.

A Federal High Court in Lagos has directed the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Ministry of Petroleum Resources and National Petroleum Investment & Management Respondent Services (NAPIMS) to stop allocating crude oil to Addax Oil Exploration Plc. The suit was filed by the Federal Government and the Attorney-General of the Federation, while Addax Petroleum Development of Nigeria Limited and Addax Petroleum Exploration (Nigeria) Limited are the first and second defendants/respondents respectively. The judge granted the Mareva Injunction, but ordered the government to swear to an affidavit that it would indemnify the defendants in the event that it misled the court to grant the injunction.

A Federal High Court (FHC), Abuja, has issued fresh summons for former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, over pending corruption charges. This is the second arrest warrant to be issued against the ex-minister, who is believed to have fled to the United Kingdom since leaving office in 2015. On July 24, 2020, Ijeoma Ojukwu issued a summons for the former minister to appear to answer to the charges, but she allegedly ignored the summons. An Abuja court has also fixed February 7 for the arraignment of the Chairman, HEDA Resource Centre, Olanrewaju Suraju, for alleged forgery. The trial of former Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, continued with the continuation of cross-examination of Mercy Titus, a certified ethical hacker and forensic analyst of EFCC.

A Federal High Court (FHC), Abuja, has issued fresh summons for former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, over pending corruption charges. This is the second arrest warrant to be issued against the ex-minister, who is believed to have fled to the United Kingdom since leaving office in 2015. On July 24, 2020, Ijeoma Ojukwu issued a summons for the former minister to appear to answer to the charges, but she allegedly ignored the summons. An Abuja court has also fixed February 7 for the arraignment of the Chairman, HEDA Resource Centre, Olanrewaju Suraju, for alleged forgery. The trial of former Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, continued with the continuation of cross-examination of Mercy Titus, a certified ethical hacker and forensic analyst of EFCC.

Nigeria is witnessing a surge in protests against the high cost of living, reminiscent of the 2011 #OccupyNigeria protest against petrol subsidy removal and the 2020 #EndSARS protest against police brutality. A fresh protest broke out in Suleja, Niger and Kogi State, following the arrest of 25 protesters. The protesters stormed the streets of Minna, the Niger State capital, and carried placards stating that leadership is about improving the life of the masses, no food, we are dying of hunger, and Nigerians are suffering. The Niger State Police Command clamped down on the protesters, including the initiator of the protest, Aisha Jibrin. The protest forced President Bola Tinubu to order a food intervention to check the food shortage in the country. Presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore called for the immediate release of the women allegedly arrested for initiating the recent food price protest in Niger State, stating that the protest was heroic.

The Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State has struck out a suit challenging the competence of the Governor Mai Mala Buni-led Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Justice Pheobe Ayua struck out the name of the APC National Chairman, the National Working Committee (NWC) and CECPC National Secretary as non-juristic persons. The court held that the action was non-justiciable and incurably incompetent, noting that the substratum of the matter bordered on the internal affairs of the ruling APC. The APC is in crisis, with leaders divided into power blocs ahead of the 2023 elections, but Commissioner for Information and Communications in Kogi State, Kingsley Fanwo, has dismissed the notion of a crisis. He believes the Buni leadership has done well in stabilising the party and attracting political heavyweights.

The Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State has struck out a suit challenging the competence of the Governor Mai Mala Buni-led Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Justice Pheobe Ayua struck out the name of the APC National Chairman, the National Working Committee (NWC) and CECPC National Secretary as non-juristic persons. The court held that the action was non-justiciable and incurably incompetent, noting that the substratum of the matter bordered on the internal affairs of the ruling APC. The APC is in crisis, with leaders divided into power blocs ahead of the 2023 elections, but Commissioner for Information and Communications in Kogi State, Kingsley Fanwo, has dismissed the notion of a crisis. He believes the Buni leadership has done well in stabilising the party and attracting political heavyweights.

The Nigeria COVID-19 summit has stressed the need for Nigeria to galvanise other nations to call for debt relief so that resources can be channelled towards building the national bio-security and ensuring Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The summit also called for improved partnership in primary healthcare delivery and vaccination uptake, strengthening the collaboration between national and sub-national entities, and pursuing the "One Health" Strategy and the requirements under the International Health Regulation. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also called on stakeholders across blocs to support the cause. The World Bank and IMF have warned that poor vaccination in emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs) is a major obstacle to the recovery of the sub-Saharan African economy, and that the emergence of the Omicron variant has global implications. The global community has been debating patent-free COVID-19 vaccines and the need to democratise the process to allow African countries to produce vaccines to catch up with the rest of the world.

Over 1,000 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) barricaded the headquarters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), requesting both parties to pick their presidential candidates for the 2023 general elections from the southern part of the country. The protesters, under the auspices of the Coalition of Civil Society Groups in Nigeria (CCSG), displayed banners and chanted solidarity songs in Abuja, insisting that heeding the call would save the nation from possible instability. The CSOs do not intend to undermine the right of political parties or party's constitution by making the patriotic call, maintaining that they deem it a worthy sacrifice and a patriotic love for the country if political parties could jettison all other interests and ambition for the peace, unity and stability of the nation's democracy.

Stakeholders at the Townhall Forum on the Electoral Bill 2022 argued that the National Assembly should retransmit the Electoral Act Amendment Bill to President Muhammadu Buhari in the interest of Nigerians, as it will improve the integrity of the 2023 general elections. The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Attahiru Jega, maintained that the Nigerians yearn for new electoral law before the 2023 elections, but cautioned NASS against overriding the President. He argued that the bill contains good things that will enhance the electoral process and improve voter confidence. The National President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ayuba Wabba, urged the National Assembly to be meticulous in effecting corrections and discard the contentious issue of direct primary and retransmit the Bill to Mr President. He also expressed optimism that with a good legal framework put in place, the process will improve. However, he warned that if the right thing is not done, the 12 million workers who are members of the NLC and a formidable force could be affected.

The Prelate of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Chukwuemeka Kalu Uche, has urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on unemployment and urgently recruit 3,000 persons in each of the 774 councils of the country. He also recommended aggressive farming, recruitment of more people to man the country's porous borders, increasing the extant police from one to 8,000 ratio to one to 1, 000 and bringing the total number of Police personnel to two million as solution to address insecurity in the country. The National Orientation Agency (NOA), led by the Director, Dr. Ngozi Okechukwu, said the advocacy visit was in continuation of NOA's efforts to fight insecurity and engender peace.

The Balance and Equity Group (BEG) has urged South East politicians and technocrats to declare their intent to contest the 2023 presidential election. They have put structures in place to conduct a Presidential Interest Debate (PID) for all aspirants to select the best and acceptable candidate of Igbo extraction to be presented to Nigerians. They have commended Ebonyi State Governor Dave Umahi, former President of the Senate, Anyim Pius Anyim and former Abia State Governor, Orji Uzor Kalu for declaring their interest, promising that any Igbo aspirant who emerges would make a good president for the country. Kalu has also been pressured to run for the presidency and visit President Muhammadu Buhari. Kalu is waiting to see if the APC cedes the presidency ticket to the South, while HURIWA has urged Nigerians to reject Umahi's presidential ambition, saying he is one of the worst civilian governors in Nigeria.

The Abducted Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mr. Federal Otokito, has regained freedom five days after he was kidnapped from his Otuokpoti community residence in Ogbia council. The Bayelsa Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ben Nebolisa, and the state Director of State Security Services, Mr. Mohammed Abdullahi, presented Mr. Otokito to Governor Douye Diri at Government House, Yenagoa. Diri announced the deposition of the paramount ruler, Chief A.C.T Wongo, and appointed Chief Rescue Abe in an acting capacity. He also sacked the community's development committee chairman, Azibalua Amon, and replaced him with Jerry Offor in acting capacity. Diri warned all those involved in illegal refining of crude to stop forthwith. He thanked security agencies and all those who availed the government of useful information that led to the release of the commissioner.

The Nigerian electricity market is facing a crisis due to debt, weak corporate governance structure, poor tariff system, weak regulatory enforcement and lack of respect for extant regulations. This has led to the takeover of the assets of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) and the sacking of most key management staff. The debt owed to banks by the power sector stands at about N819.97 billion as of last year, and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has put non-performing loans (NPLs) on the rise. Ibom Power has acquired a licence for 685MW, but is facing challenges due to the inability of its host DisCo to take the quantum of power it generates. The Akwa Ibom State government has taken up the responsibility of TCN by building 132/33KVA and 260MVA at Ikam, which Vice President Yemi Osinbajo commissioned in 2020.

Nigeria's 11 Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) have insisted that billing of end-users by estimation is normal and follows necessary methodology. However, the NERC's Key Operational and Financial Data of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) for January 2019 to September 2021 showed that of the 12,784,685 registered energy customers as at September 2021, only 4, 772,906 (37.33%) had been metered. The Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED) said DisCos were not forcing their marketers to 'extort' customers and give them bills that do not reflect their electricity consumption in an effort to improve revenue. ANED's Executive Director for Research and Advocacy, Sunday Oduntan, said the companies were only concerned with market 'receivables', which is the money owed to the DisCo for a service already rendered. DisCos set commercial, operations, technical and customer service targets for their staff, which are specific and based on what has been consumed. Distribution transformers are metered to show the value of electricity passed through them, and customers are allowed to contest their billing. NERC's Methodology for Estimated Billing Regulations 2012 (Estimated Billing Methodology Regulation) was introduced in 2012 to ensure energy consumed is paid for and to ensure DisCos do not issue arbitrary electricity bills. Oduntan asked customers to promptly report electricity workers demanding bribe, noting that Nigerians must help the market fish out bad eggs.

Kelechi Nwakali, a new invitee to the Super Eagles team to the 2022 Cameroon Africa Cup of Nation (AFCON), has said that the country is going for the title in the competition. He expressed delight at being part of the team despite not playing during the qualifiers, and believes that Coach Augustine Eguavoen's style of play will allow every player to be active on the field of play. He also believes that his special talent of giving long passes will help the Eagles at the AFCON.

The Ebonyi State government has declared a former House of Representatives member, Hon. Linus Okorie, wanted over alleged provocative publication on his Facebook page, which resulted in violence and the killing of an Ebubeagu official, Sunday Nwafor, in Ekawoke Community, Ikwo Council on January 9, 2022. Okorie, who represented Ohanivo Federal constituency between 2011 and 2019, has described the action as a plot to silence opposition and divert attention from the carnage being meted out by Ebubeagu operatives in the state.

The opening group match between the Super Eagles and The Pharaohs of Egypt was the first major game to be played in Benguela, a tiny city ravaged by the impact of the 22-year civil war in Angola. On the eve of the encounter, the late Coach Shuaibu Amodu expressed optimism that no matter what happened, the Eagles would fly high above The Pharaohs. The team was loaded with top stars and was tipped as one of the teams to win the tournament. The Estadio Nacional de Ombaka Stadium was filled to capacity with fans, particularly market women and school children waiting for the kickoff of the highly anticipated Group C challenge. The Eagles had to dig deep to book qualification into the next stage of the AFCON, but this came at a huge cost. At the Angola 2010 tournament, the Eagles became the most travelled team of the tournament, traversing from Benguela to Lumbago, and later to Luanda, before returning to Benguela for the third-place match against Algeria. Despite the drums and motivational songs from members of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, the Eagles failed to put their acts together and conceded a second goal in the 54th minute. Mohamed Gedo confirmed victory three minutes from full-time to end the tie 3-1.

The opening group match between the Super Eagles and The Pharaohs of Egypt was the first major game to be played in Benguela, a tiny city ravaged by the impact of the 22-year civil war in Angola. On the eve of the encounter, the late Coach Shuaibu Amodu expressed optimism that no matter what happened, the Eagles would fly high above The Pharaohs. The team was loaded with top stars and was tipped as one of the teams to win the tournament. The Estadio Nacional de Ombaka Stadium was filled to capacity with fans, particularly market women and school children waiting for the kickoff of the highly anticipated Group C challenge. The Eagles had to dig deep to book qualification into the next stage of the AFCON, but this came at a huge cost. At the Angola 2010 tournament, the Eagles became the most travelled team of the tournament, traversing from Benguela to Lumbago, and later to Luanda, before returning to Benguela for the third-place match against Algeria. Despite the drums and motivational songs from members of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, the Eagles failed to put their acts together and conceded a second goal in the 54th minute. Mohamed Gedo confirmed victory three minutes from full-time to end the tie 3-1.

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is meeting in Abuja to assess global growth prospects and monitor the policy options of global central banks. Dr. Femi Saibu of the Department of Economics, University of Lagos, argues that 80% of Nigeria's inflation is caused by food shortage and that monetary tools are not effective in addressing it.

Powershift agitators in Ekiti State, under the auspices of Ekiti Concerned Citizens' Group (ECCG), have described politicians of Ekiti South extraction that accept to play second fiddle as traitors. They have insisted that the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other parties must pick their candidates from Ekiti South Senatorial District for the June 18, 2022 governorship election. The PDP has warned its members in Ekiti to avoid distraction and focus on the task of unseating the ruling party.

Chief Bisi Kolawole was declared the winner of the primary election of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held in Ekiti State yesterday to fly the party's flag in the June 18 governorship election. He scored a total of 671 votes to defeat his closest rival, Oni, who polled 330 votes. Other highlights of the poll included void votes, 13; Adekemi Adewumi, one; Biodun Olujimi, two; Lateef Ajijola, one; Ayodeji Kazeem, six; Kayode Adaramodu, 10; Kolapo Olusola, 93 and Adewale Aribisala, 56. Governor Udom Emmanuel appreciated party members for their maturity and cooperation. Kolawole resigned his position as Ekiti PDP chairman to contest the governorship election, while Fayose endorsed him as a bridge-builder who will usher in a better future for Ekiti and the PDP. Abubakar Badaru, chairman of the APC Primary Election Committee for Ekiti, has assured of a free, fair and credible primary, with only members with valid membership cards and voter cards allowed to participate.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has nullified the ward delegate congresses it conducted in Ekiti over perceived irregularities and will use the statutory/automatic delegate list to conduct its governorship primary. Unconfirmed reports indicate that no fewer than 1,200 automatic/ statutory delegates will vote at the primary. The NWC has also nominated governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel, as chairman of the committee mandated to elect the party's candidate for the election. The Ekiti State Police Command has warned the opposition PDP and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to shun violence before, during and after the parties' governorship primaries slated for today and Thursday. The Commissioner of Police, Tunde Mobayo, has deployed additional manpower to monitor the shadow polls and warned against any form of sharp electoral malpractices. He has also confirmed the approval of additional manpower from the Force Headquarters, Abuja, to complement and support the personnel on ground.

The Senate re-amended the 2021 Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill to accommodate the direct, indirect and consensus mode of electing candidates by political parties. Clause 84(3) requires that all aspirants are given equal opportunity of being voted for by members of the party, while Clause 84(4) requires that a National Convention be held for the ratification of the candidate with the highest number of votes. The amendment followed a motion for its re-committal to the Committee of the Whole. Members of the House of Representatives expunged clause 84 (2) of the bill to incorporate a fresh stipulation that allows political parties to adopt direct and indirect primary methods of nominating candidates for election. A member of the House, Awaji-Inombek Abiante, alleged new clauses have been inputted into the bill to ensure President Buhari rejects it. The Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila, denied the allegation, saying nothing was included in the bill. The bill was passed despite the opposition.

The Senate re-amended the 2021 Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill to accommodate the direct, indirect and consensus mode of electing candidates by political parties. Clause 84(3) requires that all aspirants are given equal opportunity of being voted for by members of the party, while Clause 84(4) requires that a National Convention be held for the ratification of the candidate with the highest number of votes. The amendment followed a motion for its re-committal to the Committee of the Whole. Members of the House of Representatives expunged clause 84 (2) of the bill to incorporate a fresh stipulation that allows political parties to adopt direct and indirect primary methods of nominating candidates for election. A member of the House, Awaji-Inombek Abiante, alleged new clauses have been inputted into the bill to ensure President Buhari rejects it. The Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila, denied the allegation, saying nothing was included in the bill. The bill was passed despite the opposition.

Equities closed on a downturn due to losses from many blue-chip stocks, especially NEM insurance and Custodian and Allied Insurance, causing market capitalisation to decline by N2 billion. The All-Share Index (ASI) depreciated by 4.08 basis points to 44604.74 points, driven by price depreciation in large and medium capitalised stocks. NEM Insurance recorded the highest loss, dropping by 10.00 per cent to close at N3.96 kobo. Custodian Investment Plc, UACN, FTN Cocoa, Japaul Gold, Transnational Corporation of Nigeria (Transcorp), Chi Plc, Regal Insurance, Jaiz Bank, International Breweries, Mutual Benefits Assurance, FBN Holdings, Guaranty Trust Bank Holding Company, and GTCO were the top traded stocks. Total volume traded increased 20.8% to 321.753 million units, valued at N3.655 billion, and exchanged in 4,565 deals.

Nigerian feature film, Eyimofe (This Is My Desire), has been nominated for the 2022 NAACP Image Award, a yearly awards ceremony organised by the U.S.-based National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The nomination comes weeks after the film was listed by The Guardian UK among best films of 2021. It will battle 7 Prisoners, African America, Flee and The Gravedigger's Wife in the Outstanding International Motion Picture category. The NAACP Image Awards was first organised and presented on August 13, 1967 by activists Maggie Hathaway, Sammy Davis, Jr. and Willis Edwards. It was first taped for television by NBC in 1987 and broadcast in Primetime beginning in 1996. The first live broadcast of the awards occurred in 2007. This year's class is a star-studded list with nominations for everyone from Megan Thee Stallion to Jonathan Majors, Ariana DeBose, Marsai Martin, Denzel Washington and more. Winners will be revealed during a two-hour special on BET on February 26, 2022.

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Malam Muhammad Bello has tested positive for COVID-19, according to a statement from the Minister's chief press secretary, Anthony Ogunleye, on Friday. The statement said the Minister had mild symptoms of a sore throat, fever, and a mild runny nose on December 28 and had taken a COVID-19 test.

Yesterday, Nnamdi Kanu, the detained IPOB chief, was charged with new terrorist offenses by the federal government. The Federal Government increased the counts in the original charge sought against Kanu in the amended process it submitted to the Federal High Court in Abuja. The Guardian recalled that Kanu, who had been charged with a seven-count treasonable felony, now confronts a new, 15-count amended charge in a lawsuit with the filing number FHC/ABJ/CR/383/2015 and the signature of DPP M. B. Abubakar. On December 2, 2021, the court set today for the hearing of a few outstanding applications, including Kanu's suit asking to be released and found not guilty.

The Nigerian Government has declared bandits as terrorists after a court ruling. A government gazette was signed on November 29, 2021, warning that any person or group participating in activities involving the prosecution of the collective intention of the groups will be liable to prosecution. Justice Taiwo Taiwo held that the activities of Yan Bindiga and Yan Ta'adda bandit groups constitute acts of terrorism.

The Federal Government has lifted the ban on Twitter operations in Nigeria, effective from 12:00 a.m. this morning. The suspension was announced on June 4, 2021, after the social media giant deleted a post by President Buhari for "violation of the company's abusive behaviour policy". Nigeria lost N104.02 million ($250,600) every hour to the ban, bringing the daily losses to N2.46 billion. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court was expected to deliver a judgement on the case next week. Twitter's potential advertising audience in Nigeria is low compared to other platforms, making it unlikely that its 3.05 million adverts audience would be impacted by the ban. However, some Nigerians, including government officials, circumvented the process by installing Virtual Private Network (VPN). Stakeholders have expressed mixed feelings on the development, with some commending the move and others questioning the ban.

The Federal Government has appealed to developed nations for technology transfer to help Nigeria stop gas flaring, as Nigeria produces more gas than oil. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, declared open the National Conference on Strengthening the Implementation of the Voluntary Principle on Security and Human Rights in Nigeria, while the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, reiterated its commitment to ensuring implementation of the dedicated 0.5% of Nigeria's GDP to research and innovation. Onyeama said the relationship between host communities and the extractive sector, particularly the petroleum sector, has been frosty due to pollution of the environment. He urged the international community to pause the bid to defund fossil fuel projects. The Co-chair, Nigeria Working Group on the Voluntary Principle on Security and Human Rights, Dr. Joel Bisina, said it is the obligation of the government to promote and preserve the well-being of its citizens. The co-chair concluded that the Voluntary Principles serves multiple purposes of promoting human rights, respecting the business environment, conflict de-escalation in the business environment and creating an investment-friendly country reputation profile. President Muhammadu Buhari had declared that a minimum of 0.5% of the GDP would be allocated to research and innovation in order to accelerate development. Nigeria is endowed with abundant natural and human resources, but is still underdeveloped.

The Federal Government has suspended indefinitely its planned fuel subsidy removal and will amend the 2022 Appropriation Act to provide for subsidy payments from July 1. This was announced by the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Ms Zainab Ahmed, in a meeting with lawmakers at the National Assembly. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited had revealed that Nigeria consumes 19.535 billion litres of petrol yearly, averaging 1.6 billion litres monthly. This brings yearly subsidy to about N4.6 trillion. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) threatened to embark on a nationwide protest against the planned removal of fuel subsidy in the 2022 budget signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari. The Finance Minister, Timipre Sylva, and the Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited, Mele Kyari, met with the National Assembly leadership to amend the law to provide for an extension of subsidy provision beyond June 2022. Sylva said the government had initially planned to remove subsidies on petroleum products from July, but a reasonable provision was made in the 2022 national budget for subsidy payment till June.

In December 2020, President Muhammadu Buhari promised Nigerians that an autogas policy would ensure that vehicles plying the country's roads run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). However, an investigation by The Guardian shows that the plan is yet to take off despite the commitment of resources for the conversion. The cost of gas has gone up by over 200% since the announcement, and the infrastructure to convert cars to be powered by gas has exponentially increased. As of yesterday, a litre of autogas was selling for an average N400 at the NNPC retail outlet along the Lagos-Ibadan highway. The Guardian investigation revealed that no one has come to fuel their cars at the gas pump for over two months, and only NNPC vehicles have been converted at the pilot phase. The Federal Government had set aside N250 billion for willing investors in autogas assembly plants, but the funds would barely convert 100,000 vehicles to autogas going by market rates.

Fixit45 is a platform that provides a seamless, collaborative infrastructure for interactions to occur across verticals, such as auto repair and maintenance services, fleet management, auto parts sourcing and delivery, auto care, refurbishment and upgrades, repair financing, and mechanic workshop software. It was founded to make the customer journey for car repairs very seamless by automating payments, helping them acquire the right tools for the job and providing professional care services. It is also set to ensure that garages and technicians have enough support in terms of technology and technicians to meet their demands. The aftermarket stakeholders include a vast network of automobile service providers, specialised technical teams, spare parts suppliers, and end-consumers. The Fixit45 Vehicle Intact Programme (VIP) provides quality and affordable repair and maintenance services via subscription-based plans to ensure the lifetime value of a vehicle or fleet is enhanced and productivity optimized. Head of Marketing and Communications, Bemigho Awala, explains that the service plan ensures subscribers don't have to worry about counterfeit spare parts.

Scientists have identified a new Coronavirus variant called IHU in France, which contains 46 mutations more than Omicron. It has been associated with Cameroun and is yet to be spotted in other countries or labelled a variant under investigation by the WHO. French health minister Olivier Veran has said that the country expects to see even higher daily counts of new COVID-19 infections in the coming days. U.S. epidemiologist and health economist Eric Feigl-Ding has identified a new variant of SARS CoV2 that is more contagious and could evade immunity. The variant was first identified in South Africa and Botswana in November last year and has spread to over 100 countries. The United States recorded more than one million cases on Monday, a global record, with the number of cases doubling on the previous week. Rates of death and hospitalisation have been far lower in recent weeks than during previous surges.

The Organised Private Sector (OPS) and the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) have warned of dire consequences of the Federal Government's suspension of the planned withdrawal of the subsidy regime announced on Monday. President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the suspension of the removal of fuel subsidy until further notice and proposed an 18 months extension to the National Assembly for the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, has stated that government is working to ensure proper structures are in place before such a decision becomes inevitable. CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), Dr Muda Yusuf, warned that the cost of funding the subsidy will be much higher this year due to the surge in crude oil price, and that some states may have to lay off some of their workforce.

NGF, Labour leaders seek forensic probe of NNPC's figures, alleging fraud. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited has presented a bill of N3 trillion for deliberations at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting chaired by President Muhammadu Buhari. This is the amount required to continue to subsidise petroleum products for the 18 months extension recently approved by the Presidency. The Minister of Finance Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, explained that FEC considered the request so as to make additional funding provisions that will enable government meet incremental fuel subsidy payment in the 2022 budget. However, the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) and the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) have blamed the NNPC for the mismanagement of the proceeds accruing from oil. The Council directed the ministry to approach the National Assembly for an amendment to the fiscal framework, including the budget.

The Coalition of Southern and Middle Belt Youth Leaders Assembly (COSMBYLA) has condemned the attack on the Utako, Abuja office of ThisDay Newspaper, describing it as an attempt to gag the press and suppress democracy in the country. The statement was issued by Goodluck Egwu Ibem, Coordinator, Forum of Middle Belt Youth Presidents, Terrence Kuanum; Coordinator, South West Youth Leaders Forum (SWYLF), Shittu Waheed, and President of South-South Youth Forum (SSYF), Tito Zokumor. This attack on the Utako, Abuja office of ThisDay highlights the brazen way to intimidate and harass the press. The group warned those threatening and attacking the press to desist or attract the exasperation of the Nigerian youths. They also urged the youths not to be used as thugs to attack the press, anyone or any property.

Gunmen have kidnapped six children of former Secretary to Taraba State Government, Gebon Kataps, alongside their police escort and driver. The state's police command confirmed the incident, but could not ascertain the exact number of victims. Meanwhile, troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have eliminated 950 Boko Haram terrorists in the North-East between May 20, 2021, and January 6, 2022. About 24,059 terrorists and their families have so far surrendered to the troops in the region, and 79 terrorists were arrested and 113 kidnapped civilians rescued.

Gunmen have attacked the Sino Hydro Power Electricity Dam project in Zungeru, Niger State, and kidnapped some Chinese and local staff. The police tactical team engaged the hoodlums in a gun battle and rescued expatriates and a local staff, but government has yet to confirm any death. Zaar Development Association (ZDA) has apologised over the attacks on Bauchi emirs and others. Alhaji Umaru AbdulMutallab, the billionaire businessman and father of Farouk AbdulMutallab, is serving a life sentence in a US prison for terrorism act. He communicates with his son on the phone and his mother, brother and sister visited him under strict prison guidelines. AbdulMutallab hopes to see his son again in his lifetime. China's flying car developer eyes ASEAN aerial tour market

Gunmen have attacked the Sino Hydro Power Electricity Dam project in Zungeru, Niger State, and kidnapped some Chinese and local staff. The police tactical team engaged the hoodlums in a gun battle and rescued expatriates and a local staff, but government has yet to confirm any death. Zaar Development Association (ZDA) has apologised over the attacks on Bauchi emirs and others. Alhaji Umaru AbdulMutallab, the billionaire businessman and father of Farouk AbdulMutallab, is serving a life sentence in a US prison for terrorism act. He communicates with his son on the phone and his mother, brother and sister visited him under strict prison guidelines. AbdulMutallab hopes to see his son again in his lifetime. China's flying car developer eyes ASEAN aerial tour market

Gunmen have killed four workers at a mining site in Dong village of Jos South Local Council of Plateau State. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Uba Ogaba, confirmed the casualty figure and the command has mobilised armed officers to restore normalcy. Governor Simon Lalong has commended the Operation safe Heaven (OPSH) for its efforts in uniting diverse groups from Plateau, Bauchi and Kaduna states. To curb the incessant banditry in Southern Kaduna, Operation Safe Haven has trained 98 youths on surveillance and information gathering. The Commander of OPSH, Maj-Gen. Ibrahim Ali, charged the youths to distance themselves from sentiments but discharge their duty without fear or favour.

Gunmen have killed four workers at a mining site in Dong village of Jos South Local Council of Plateau State. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Uba Ogaba, confirmed the casualty figure and the command has mobilised armed officers to restore normalcy. Governor Simon Lalong has commended the Operation safe Heaven (OPSH) for its efforts in uniting diverse groups from Plateau, Bauchi and Kaduna states. To curb the incessant banditry in Southern Kaduna, Operation Safe Haven has trained 98 youths on surveillance and information gathering. The Commander of OPSH, Maj-Gen. Ibrahim Ali, charged the youths to distance themselves from sentiments but discharge their duty without fear or favour.

Nigeria's headline inflation rate rose to 15.63 per cent in December 2021, from 15.40 per cent recorded in November. This is due to global concerns over rising prices of essential commodities, leaving the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) with hard choices as they meet next week. According to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), December recorded 1.82 per cent month-on-month change to push the headline inflation rate up. This suggests that prices showed an uptick in December 2021 but dropped when compared to the corresponding period of 2020. The NBS reported that in December 2021, all items inflation was highest in Ebonyi (18.71%), Kogi (18.37%), Bauchi (17.81%), Kwara (12.32%), Edo (13.46%), Cross River (13.93%), Kaduna (13.24%), Sokoto (14.53%) and Jigawa (0.56%). Food inflation also increased to 17.37% in December from 17.21% in November, caused by increases in the price of bread and cereals, food product, meat, fish, potatoes, yam and other tubers, soft drinks and fruits.

The fractures and frictions in Nigeria's two major political parties, the governing All Progressives Congress (APC) and main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), are pointers to the stunted growth of the country's party's system. Recently, the Director-General of Progressive Governors' Forum (PGF), Dr. Salihu Lukman, resigned his appointment as the manager of policy, strategy and governance system of state governors elected on the platform of APC. Lukman contested against the incumbent Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El Rufai, for the APC gubernatorial ticket in 2014, but lost due to certain considerations that favoured El-Rufai. Lukman expected that his home governor may not side with him on issues revolving around the performance of his office, but he did not allow that to constrain or make him circumspect in holding his political views and upholding his democratic rights. He regretted that some members of the PGF became intolerant to the opposition in their desire to dominate the governing party, but from the vantage position of his office as DG of the APC governors' forum, he was able to distil information and vote against tyranny, impunity.

Oil discovery has become Nigeria's developmental Achilles' Heel, leading to a Resource Curse and a pathological dependence on oil export earnings. This has resulted in severe fiscal contraction and other economic challenges, such as unemployment, inflation, and payments imbalance. Oil-dependence also sets in motion a strong exclusionary effect on other sectors, leading to the underdevelopment of manufacturing capacity for industrial exports and export of processed agricultural goods. Malaysia progressed through Vertical Diversification from its modest agricultural base, while Nigeria's pathology of oil dependence became entrenched over time. Nigeria's oil exports in 2019 were 94.1% of total exports, oil rents amounted to 9% of GDP, and the oil and gas sector make only a small contribution to GDP. Nigeria spent $264.57b importing petroleum products during the five-year period 2015.

Nigeria's Super Eagles have made a comeback in the Africa Cup of Nations final against hosts Cote d'Ivoire, despite a disappointing second-round exit at the AFCON two years ago and a poor run of results in 2023. The team's success is a testament to national potential, continuous investment in sports, and the belief in dreams. The team, led by Jose Peseiro, had a scorecard of 20 matches, winning nine and losing seven with four draws. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced that the winner of the championship will receive $7 million, while the runner-up will receive $4 million. The semifinalists will each receive $2.5 million, and teams qualifying for the quarterfinals will earn $1.3 million. The Federal Government approved the Nigeria Football Federation's budget of N12 billion for the campaign in Cote d'Ivoire, including payment of coaches' allowances and clearance of outstanding debts. The team's success is a testament to their resilience and determination.

President Muhammadu Buhari has recounted the attempt by terrorists on his life in 2014, when he was travelling from Kaduna to Katsina, his hometown. He also commissioned ultra modern sports and shopping complexes at Murtala Mohammed Square, and pledged the Federal Government's resolve to continue to initiate programmes that would impact on ordinary Nigerians. The Emir of Jama'a, Muhammadu Isa Muhammadu, appealed to the President to use his exalted office in attracting more federal presence to Southern Kaduna, especially the reviving of the Kafanchan rail track and the siting of a permanent mobile police base. El-Rufai also recalled how Boko Haram tried to kill Buhari around the Kawu Bridge, in Kaduna, during his campaign in 2014.

President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered the military to respond "robustly" to the cases of killings and kidnappings in Kaduna State and to give effect to the strategic objectives through the use of force. He has also set the ball rolling for a major military operation in communities, where bandits and remnants of fleeing Boko Haram terrorists attarks.

President Muhammadu Buhari has given his best for the country and expects Nigerians to acknowledge the same after he leaves office. He plans to take a well-deserved rest after leaving office in 17 months and is looking forward to his exit from office, saying age is telling on him from working long hours every day. He also said no person accused of corruption can go scot-free even if they join his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). Many Nigerians believe that opposition politicians accused of corruption or on trial for corruption join the APC to avoid being punished. President Buhari argued that corruption is a continuous problem in developing countries, and urged the people to live within their means. He also wanted the people to be given the freedom of choice through direct, indirect and consensus channels. He urged members of the APC to put the party in order ahead of its convention to prevent the opposition from taking over the government.

President Muhammadu Buhari has declared that he will not interfere in the 2023 Presidential election, expressing his willingness to accept anyone elected by Nigerians. He also admitted to having a favourite candidate among presidential aspirants, but declined to mention his name. He described the PDP as a "failure" and said his government has done its best to maintain security and stop importation of rice and other food items. President Buhari expressed his willingness to sign the amended Electoral Bill he vetoed and returned to the National Assembly if there are choices for political parties to elect their candidates. He also expressed his reservation to the establishment of state police and called on the agitators to define their definition of restructuring. He also urged Nigerians to return to farming to stop importation and provide jobs for the youths.

Nigeria is home to some of the greatest footballers in the world, such as Jay Jay Okocha, Nwankwo Kanu, Sunday Oliseh, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Rashidi Yekini, Segun Odegbami and Finidi George. Despite this, there is a lack of progression from the grassroots level to the senior team. This is changing, as some of the current crop of players have played together at the U-17 level, leading to the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile, where Kelechi Nwakali was awarded the golden ball and Victor Osimhen scored 10 goals. Iheanacho and Awoniyi recreated a celebration from nine years ago for the Golden Eaglets after giving Nigeria the lead against Egypt at the AFCON tournament. MTN Nigeria has made investments in Nigerian football, including a three-day coaching clinic for 128 young players and 30 coaches, a partnership with LaLiga, and a three-year multi-million naira partnership deal with the Nigerian Football Federation.

Traditional rulers and clerics in the South East region have urged politicians in Imo State to end their hostilities to save the state, stressing that the state has become a war zone. They lamented the invasion of a church by officers of the Nigeria Police on December 26, 2021 to arrest candidate of the Action Alliance (AA) in the 2019 governorship election, Uche Nwosu, and the exchange of gunfire between unknown gunmen and law enforcement officers. The Igbo nation is appalled that those responsible seem unable to gauge the consequences of their conducts. The tension, violence and failing law and order in Imo State have resulted in many deaths, including those of traditional rulers, missing persons and abduction of scores of youths by law enforcement and non-state actors. The statement lamented that the state of affairs in Imo should be blamed on some politicians and their cohorts, who constitute an assault on the dignity and wellbeing of Imo people and the Igbo nation. They urged all political leaders in contestation and their followers to desist from all actions that would escalate the situation and to examine their conscience. They proposed to hold meetings with Governor Hope Uzodimma, former governors, former governorship candidates and elders of the state to review the situation and proffer a lasting solution.

The gale of attacks by bandits, now classified as terrorists, in the Northwestern part of the country, especially Kaduna and Niger states, was sustained all weekend, leaving in its trail bodies, arson and displacement of citizens. In Southern Kaduna, at least 10 persons were killed, while many houses were also set ablaze. Atak Mawai community in Zaman Dabo Village in Zangon Kataf Council came under heavy gunfire by the attackers in the early hours of yesterday, with most of those killed being burned in their houses. The state government confirmed 11 persons dead, with many others injured. Over 30 houses were burnt in the attack, and the injured were evacuated for treatment. Governor Nasir el-Rufa'i expressed sadness at the latest in a series of attacks in Niger State, where dozens of people have been killed and many houses burnt in fresh attacks at Galadima-Kogo and Galkogo communities of Shiroro Local Council. The attack started around 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and lasted for hours. The Niger State Police Command's Public Relations Officer, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, refused to comment on the development, but the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Internal Security, Emmanuel Umar, confirmed the attack. Security men were overpowered by the bandits, and there have been ongoing security operations in the area.

The year 2021 ended on a frantic note in Nigeria, with a raft of developments in the judiciary designed to lock in strategic leverage for various entrenched interests in Nigeria's ruling classes. Senior judges and politicians were handing out judicial office to their spouses and children as end-of-year hampers, with one Senator having his young daughter sworn in as a judge and a former governor swearing in one of his serving wives as a High Court judge. This is known as judicial capture, as judges now have the casting vote in Nigeria's elections and ambitious politicians have decided they must own the judges. The Supreme Court is the most powerful court in Nigeria, presided over by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), who is a totem to judicial capture and heads the judiciary; the Supreme Court; the National Judicial Council (NJC); the Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC); the Board of the National Judicial Institute (NJI); and the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee (LPPC). This has had a devastating effect on Nigeria's judiciary, with the consequences for the country being incalculable.

The Ijaw National Congress (INC) and Rivers State stakeholders have expressed concern over political wrangling between the legislature and executive in the state, despite the peace accord signed by President Bola Tinubu. The INC President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, warned that the Ijaw nations in Niger Delta and beyond will not tolerate further oppressive moves by Wike and his cohorts against the governor. Despite the peace pact, Fubara has complied with almost his part of the agreement, except for the presentation of the 2024 budget to the state Assembly. The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has cautioned the governor against running the state without a duly approved budget by the state House of Assembly. The INC President warned that further oppressive moves by Wike and his cohorts against the governor would amount to gross financial misconduct.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it will not release the 2023 general election timetable until the Electoral Act Amendment Bill is signed into law. President Muhammadu Buhari had withheld assent to the bill due to controversies surrounding the mode of primaries by parties. Yakubu also announced that 8,260,076 eligible Nigerians have commenced the online pre-registration, completed the registration physically or applied for a transfer to new voting locations, replacement of their Permanent Voters' Cards (PVCs) or updated their voter information records. He warned parties to ensure a transparent and rancour-free primary. The Ekiti governorship primaries have been held in the last four days, with seven political parties choosing the last day for their primaries. However, no party has submitted its list of aspirants, the composition of its electoral panel, or the register of members or list of delegates. The Chairman of Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) and the Chairman of Action Democratic Party (ADP) have called on the National Assembly and the executive to quickly resolve the contentious issues and pass the new Electoral Act Amendment Bill, which should be signed into law by the President.

Nigeria's stock market is experiencing high inflation and uncertainty, with a capitalization of $56.6 billion, representing only 3% of the GDP and 177 listed firms. This is lower than the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) with a total capitalization of $1.06 trillion, representing over 235% of the country's GDP and over 370 listed companies. Nigeria's market has made significant progress in capital market development, expanding asset classes to include exchange-traded funds and modernizing its market infrastructure. However, its current size, liquidity, and sectoral representation limit its contribution to national economic development. The top four capitalised stock exchanges in Africa are South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, and Kenya, each with a larger market cap. Nigeria's market cap has lag behind others despite efforts by the NGX management to improve liquidity and make it competitive in the global market.

Nigeria's stock market is experiencing high inflation and uncertainty, with a capitalization of $56.6 billion, representing only 3% of the GDP and 177 listed firms. This is lower than the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) with a total capitalization of $1.06 trillion, representing over 235% of the country's GDP and over 370 listed companies. Nigeria's market has made significant progress in capital market development, expanding asset classes to include exchange-traded funds and modernizing its market infrastructure. However, its current size, liquidity, and sectoral representation limit its contribution to national economic development. The top four capitalised stock exchanges in Africa are South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, and Kenya, each with a larger market cap. Nigeria's market cap has lag behind others despite efforts by the NGX management to improve liquidity and make it competitive in the global market.

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has described the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) planned nationwide protest against fuel subsidy removal as unnecessary and misplaced. Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties to the Chairman, National Task Force on Anti-Pipeline Vandalisation, Petroleum Product Adulteration and Monitoring, Nwozuzu Chigozie, said rather than protest over fuel subsidy, the union should have vent its anger over failure of the authorities to invest in modular refineries. He urged government to reinvest the subsidy savings in critical areas such as healthcare, education, agriculture and other sectors.

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has described the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) planned nationwide protest against fuel subsidy removal as unnecessary and misplaced. Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties to the Chairman, National Task Force on Anti-Pipeline Vandalisation, Petroleum Product Adulteration and Monitoring, Nwozuzu Chigozie, said rather than protest over fuel subsidy, the union should have vent its anger over failure of the authorities to invest in modular refineries. He urged government to reinvest the subsidy savings in critical areas such as healthcare, education, agriculture and other sectors.

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has banned the singing of Nigeria's national anthem in schools and the use of Fulani cows during festive seasons in the South East region. Its Head, Directorate of State, Chika Edoziem, urged IPOB members to prepare for a global protest with a focus on the British, Nigerian Embassy, Kenyan Embassy and the United Nations, and to campaign for the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu. Additionally, a new department, known as the Education Department, would be created to teach Igbo history in primary and secondary schools, and Biafran writers would be called upon to write books and educational materials to be published for children.

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has declared sit-at-home on January 18, 2022 to support its leader Nnamdi Kanu as the Umuahia High Court hears Kanu's fundamental human rights enforcement suit against the Federal Government. Biafrans should go about their businesses without molestation on January 19 and 20, 2022. The sit-at-home order in the five states of the South East region was observed from Monday, January 17 through Thursday, January 20, despite the group's statement that it would only take place on January 18 before Kanu's court appearance. The Guardian observed unusual human traffic in markets and shops, with some buyers confused by the violent enforcers who were bent on destroying property and killing people on Mondays.

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has asked South East governors and security operatives to penalise purported enforcers of the suspended sit-at-home order in the region, distancing itself from the shootings in Enugu State that disrupted economic activities and resulted in the burning of cars. IPOB has suspended the exercise since September last year, but some unscrupulous elements and criminals have continued to inflict pain on Ndigbo. IPOB stressed the need for the people to stand firm and fight for their liberty, and urged Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi to deal decisively with any hoodlum using the sit-at-home order to torture innocent citizens and residents of the state. It also warned that those shooting sporadically in the market and parts of Enugu State are criminals and bandits using IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and ESN to humiliate and demonise the movement.

Jaiz Bank Plc is a pioneer non-interest bank in Nigeria, with three branches in Abuja, Kaduna and Kano. At its 10th anniversary, the bank gained international recognition as it won the Most Improved Islamic Bank award for 2020 and 2021 at the Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA). The bank has successfully developed a remarkable brand that is iconic, both locally and internationally.

Jaiz Bank Plc is a pioneer non-interest bank in Nigeria, with three branches in Abuja, Kaduna and Kano. At its 10th anniversary, the bank gained international recognition as it won the Most Improved Islamic Bank award for 2020 and 2021 at the Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA). The bank has successfully developed a remarkable brand that is iconic, both locally and internationally.

The Kaduna State Schools Quality Assurance Authority (KSSQA) has shut down two Islamiyah schools indefinitely over the alleged rape of a six-year-old girl and impregnation of another 12- year-old girl. The Overseer of the KSSQA, Mr. Idris Aliyu, explained that the six-year old girl was violated within the school premises and the school authority covered it up. Governor Nasir El-Rufai has ordered that the Islamiyah be shut down indefinitely until the investigation is concluded and the culprit produced. The headmaster of the school will be held responsible for the act until all persons in the school are profiled and the perpetrator identified by the survivor and prosecuted. The Head Teacher of the Islamiyah School in Kaduna denied the allegation of a rape, but the grandmother of the survivor, Hajiya Batul Gambo, insisted that her grandchild was violated. A medical report signed by Dr. A Raji confirmed Gambo's claim, attributing the bleeding to virginal bruising of the labia minora, bilaterally periurethral bruising, heamatoma of the clitoris and laceration of the hymen. The 12-year-old girl in Kachia was six months pregnant and the school was shut down as directed by EL-Rufai. The two schools will remain closed until investigations are concluded and the culprit prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Kaduna State Schools Quality Assurance Authority (KSSQA) has shut down two Islamiyah schools indefinitely over the alleged rape of a six-year-old girl and impregnation of another 12- year-old girl. The Overseer of the KSSQA, Mr. Idris Aliyu, explained that the six-year old girl was violated within the school premises and the school authority covered it up. Governor Nasir El-Rufai has ordered that the Islamiyah be shut down indefinitely until the investigation is concluded and the culprit produced. The headmaster of the school will be held responsible for the act until all persons in the school are profiled and the perpetrator identified by the survivor and prosecuted. The Head Teacher of the Islamiyah School in Kaduna denied the allegation of a rape, but the grandmother of the survivor, Hajiya Batul Gambo, insisted that her grandchild was violated. A medical report signed by Dr. A Raji confirmed Gambo's claim, attributing the bleeding to virginal bruising of the labia minora, bilaterally periurethral bruising, heamatoma of the clitoris and laceration of the hymen. The 12-year-old girl in Kachia was six months pregnant and the school was shut down as directed by EL-Rufai. The two schools will remain closed until investigations are concluded and the culprit prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Stakeholders have criticised the launch of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) rice pyramid unveiled by President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday, describing it as a political jamboree. They questioned the exclusion of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and other relevant research institutes, and alleged that part of the rice used to build the pyramid was imported from northern Cameroun, Cotonou, the Republic of Benin; Niger and Togo. An agriculture expert, Dr. Bello Musa, said the CBN and the handlers of the ABP must explain to Nigerians where the rice and maize they unveil in pyramids were cultivated, as insecurity in the major rice and maize producing states is forcing farmers to keep off farmlands. The National President of Maize Growers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria, Dr. Edwin Uche, said the pyramids are symbolic and to show that efforts are being made to ensure that maize is grown and that the challenges associated with maize farming are being addressed gradually.

The three political actors in Kano State, Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, are embroiled in a triangular political duel. Governor Ganduje has used tact, Abuja connection and power of incumbency to isolate his former benefactor from the governing All Progressives Congress (APC). In 2019, the outcome of the governorship poll showed that the incumbent escaped with a slim margin of victory, while Ganduje and his running mate polled 1, 033, 695 votes, Yusuf and his deputy, Aminu Abdussalam returned a total of 1, 024, 713 ballots. Kwankwao challenged the result in court. Governor Ganduje's attempt to sideline a former rival turned ally, Senator Shekarau, opened a new frontier of power play and provided an opening for a possible Shekarau and Kwankaso rapprochement. Kwankwaso regained his voice and presence in the political equation in the state, leading to speculation that he was on his way back to the governing APC. The former governor reinforced the rumour when he stated that his political future would be predicated on what becomes of the appeal.

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to honour their part of an October 2, 2023 agreement to address the "massive suffering" caused by the hike in petrol prices and naira devaluation. The ultimatum, which starts counting today, is in response to the National Association of Nigerian Students' ultimatum for the government to address inflation and make food prices out of the reach of citizens or face mass demonstrations. The labour movement claims that the government's failure to uphold its end of the bargain is regrettable and unacceptable, as widespread hunger is affecting millions of Nigerians, and insecurity has increased. Meanwhile, Kano residents have taken to the streets in protest against the high cost of food items and other essential commodities. The apex Islamic body in the North, Jama’at Nasir Islam (JNI), has called on the Federal and state governments to intervene before the situation worsens and to avoid future recurrence through synergy and prompt interventions.

2022 is expected to bring significant changes to Nigeria's oil and gas sector, including the removal of the petrol subsidy. The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) has begun mobilizing its members to resist the removal of subsidies. Dr. Tommy Okon, the National President of the association, criticized the government's policy abortion, claiming that the government is foot-dragging on the payment of the N30,000 minimum wage. He argued that the removal of the petrol subsidy is an attempt to mobilize resources for the 2023 elections and not the wellbeing of the people. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged workers and citizens to prepare for a total war against the fuel price hike. The NLC has called on affected states to commence indefinite strikes to force the respective state governments to implement the new wage. The NLC has stated that Nigerians have suffered enough and will not endure more punishment through further petrol and electricity price increases.

The Olubadan-in-Council endorsed Senator Lekan Balogun as the next Olubadan of Ibadanland, but Rashidi Ladoja was absent from the meeting. The council members insisted that no court case would stop the appointment and installation of the next Olubadan. Other high chiefs at the media briefing included Balogun Olubadan, Owolabi Olakulehin, Otun Balogun, Eddy Oyewole, Ashipa Olubadan, Amidu Ajibade, Ekaarun Olubadan, Kola Adegbola and Ekerin Olubadan. Michael Lana has asked Governor Seyi Makinde not to allow'strangers' to mislead him on who becomes the next monarch. Lana argued that Balogun and all the high chiefs, who were crowned Obas in 2017, were unfit to be Olubadan. On Tuesday, legal representatives of the high chiefs faulted Lana's letter to the governor. Lana advised Makinde to be wary of advice from those who do not have knowledge of Ibadan chieftaincy laws.

Rashidi Ladoja, former Governor of Oyo State and Osi Olubadan of Ibadan, yesterday said there is no controversy on who succeeds the late Oba Saliu Adetunji as Olubadan based on tradition. 10 of the 11-member Olubadan-in-Council endorsed Balogun, and Ladoja clarified the impression that he had a hand in the letter written by an Ibadan-born lawyer and former Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General, Michael Lana. He added that there is still mourning the Olubadan.

Lagos State's Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for 2021 may have suffered a N180 billion shortfall at the end of the year due to an average N15 billion monthly deficit. The state had projected an average of N60 billion monthly to finance the budget signed into law by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, but only generated an average of N45 billion monthly. NBS statistics revealed that the state generated N127 billion and N267.23 billion in quarter one and half year respectively. Lagos State has not met its monthly IGR target by about N183 billion. Capital expenditure may have borne the brunt of the shortfall, with the state spending N241 billion in 2019, N555.6 billion in 2020, and N386.5 billion in 2021. Tax consultant Prof. Godwin Oyedokun noted that budget and expected revenue are based on assumptions, which may not be achieved or not.

The Lagos State Government has introduced a daily consolidated informal transport sector levy of N800 for commercial transporters, besides union dues of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN). The levy takes care of dues previously accruing to councils and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) across the state, as well as revenue for Lagos Waste Management Authority (LASWA), Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and Lagos State Inland Revenue Service (LIRS). Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, Oluwatoyin Fayinka, cautioned transporters against paying any other levy, expressing hope that the initiative would ease burdens in terms of amount and mode of payment.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) has proposed to the National Assembly to confer power of control of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) to the National Judicial Council (NJC). The CCT and CCB are creations of the executive, at the federal level, by virtue of Section 153(1)(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999. Lawyers have reacted positively to the CJN's proposal. The Constitutional provisions for the CCB/CCT make it answerable only to the Presidency, in conjunction with the Senate. This has generated debate among judges, lawyers and other commentators, as the Presidency and the entire federal executive are also supposed to be subject to the control of the CCB. The NJC was established under Section 153 of the 1999 Constitution to appoint, promote and discipline judicial officers, but the chairman and members of the CCT were not listed as those the NJC could exercise disciplinary control on.

The Nigerian government's student loan scheme, promised by President Bola Tinubu, should start immediately to prevent indigent students from unable to complete their education at tertiary schools. The scheme was announced in 2023, but it has not taken effect in January 2024, months after students were expected to start enjoying the loans. The delay in the scheme's implementation is a result of leaders' lukewarm attitude towards policy announcements, which erodes confidence in the government and discourages support. President Tinubu signed the Students Loan Bill on June 13, 2023, in fulfillment of his promise to bring back the student loan issue. However, the scheme has been delayed, with many new students admitting to higher institutions while many old students and their parents struggle to pay for fees. The scheme has been widened to accommodate young Nigerians interested in acquiring skills outside tertiary institutions. The process will be seamless, with no human contact and funds sourced from the government's fund.

Nigeria and Egypt served up arguably the best match so far in the African Cup of Nations in Cameroun, but the Super Eagles' inability to convert the chances they created was the down side. Kelechi Iheanacho scored a solitary strike after 30 minutes to settle the contest, but Nigeria should have added at least a couple more goals in what was the best performance so far and a warning to their rivals. Coach Austin Eguavoen had a simple strategy to shut off Mo Salah, control the midfield and hit them from the flanks. Moses Simon was the Man of the Match, with a blistering performance down the left flank. Nigeria had the pick of the chances and former Liverpool forward Taiwo Awoniyi found the underside of the bar early in the second half. Egypt pressed for the equaliser and goalkeeper Mohammed El Shenawy was called into action to smother substitute Chidera Ejuke's effort before the full-time whistle blew. The result comes as a blow to Egypt's hopes of reaching the knockout stage. Nigeria's victory over Egypt sets the Super Eagles up for a better Round of 16 matchup and a deep run in the tournament, while Egypt will feel added pressure in its other group stage matches. Austin Eguavoen expressed satisfaction with the team's game plan, which included keeping the ball and cutting Salah off the ball. He said the victory is the beginning of Nigeria's good run in the competition, and the Eagles' technical crew will approach every game like it is a final.

France has suspended military cooperation with Mali, and its troops have already left the military base at Timbuktu. This is part of a reorganisation of Operation Barkhane, which aimed at removing its 5,100-strong force that battled jihadists in the Sahel since they entered Mali in 2013. The withdrawal of troops has left with mixed reactions in Mali, especially in the minds of Mohamed El Bashir, president of the municipal youth council, who said it will make the region less secure. Equatorial Guinea's defender Saul Basilio Coco-Bassey Oubina (L) fights for the ball with Ivory Coast's defender Maxwell Gnaly Cornet during the Group E Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2021 football match between Equatorial Guinea and Ivory Coast at Stade de Japoma in Douala on January 12, 2022. Mali has faced two coup d'etats since 2013, leading to increased violence and killings. Colonel Assimi Goita has pledged to return to civilian rule, but a four-day National conference recommended a five-year delay. A major coalition of political parties has rejected the government's plan, saying it is in violation of the transition charter.

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has expressed concern over the recent ban on spirit drinks in sachets and PET bottles less than 200ml. The manufacturers, including the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN), argue that the packaging of alcoholic beverages in sachets and PET bottles is not responsible for the reported increase in alcohol use among the underage. They also argue that the ban will lead to bootlegging, influx and proliferation of fake and adulterated products, damage local manufacturing, and negatively affect the economy and social wellbeing. DIBAN participated in the preparation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC, CPC (now FCCPC), and Association of Food, Beverages, and Tobacco Employers (AFBTE) and themselves. The plan aims to identify factors affecting irresponsible consumption of alcoholic beverages, implement strategies guided by best global practices and national priorities, strengthen regulatory activities, and monitor and evaluate efforts.

The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) has claimed that $15 billion has been squandered through fraudulent arms procurement deals in the last 20 years, allowing groups like Boko Haram to thrive. However, troops of 5 Brigades and Sector 3 Joint Task Force of Operation Hadin Kai have killed three terrorists at an illegal border market in Borno State, recovering an AK-47 rifle, a truck, two motorcycles, four empty magazines and rounds of ammunition. The Northern States Governors' Forum (NSGF) has expressed appreciation for the Federal Government's approval to deploy Super Tucano fighter jets against bandits, while the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Farouq, has condemned the recent killings in Zamfara State as horrific and tragic.

The Federal Government has shifted the NIN-SIM verification deadline from December 31, 2021 to March 31, 2022, to cover remote areas, diaspora, schools, hospitals and others. NCC and NIMC have set up 14,000 enrolment centres across the country to facilitate and fast track the verification process. NIMC has also set up enrolment centres in 31 countries to cater to the need of Nigerians in the Diaspora. The unprecedented growth in the National Identity Database to over 71 million unique NINs in such a short period reflects the concerted efforts of the Federal Government, the Nigerian populace and legal residents. The Federal Government has extended the deadline of the NIN-SIM linkage exercise to March 31, 2022, to consolidate the gains of the process and accelerate enrolment of Nigerians in key areas. The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isah Pantami, urged Nigerians and legal residents to enrol for their NINs and link with their SIMs during this period of extension. The Minister, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, and the Director-General/CEO NIMC, Aliyu A. Aziz, thanked all Nigerians and stakeholders for their commitment and support.

The People's Alternative Political Movement (TPAP-M) has requested information on the N3 trillion fuel subsidy demanded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited for 2022. The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has sued President Muhammadu Buhari and two others at the Federal High Court, Lagos for failure to probe allegations that over N3.1 billion of public funds are missing from the finance ministry. The National Industrial Court (NIC) will hear the contempt suit filed by the Association of Specialist Medical Doctors in Academics against Ahmed for alleged disregard to a court order. The court had ordered the defendants to pay the doctors based on the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and associated allowances, which was approved by the Federal Government on September 29, 2009. However, from August 2021 till date, the defendants are yet to fully comply with the order. The claimants are seeking an order for leave of the court to proceed with committal proceedings for disobedience to its order.

NEPZA is cooperating with the Auditor General's Office by providing details of its transactions, including compliance and due process requirements, under the new management led by Prof. Adesoji Adesugba. The new policy was strictly applied in the implementation of the earmarked Special Economic Zones, such as the Medical Free Zone, Lekki, Lagos, Katsina Cotton and Textiles Free Zone, Kwara Agro-Allied and Medical Free Zones, as well as infrastructure upgrade at Calabar, Lagos and Kano free zones. The new management of NEPZA has revitalised the Authority's Anti- Corruption Unit in partnership with the ICPC to ensure value for money in the deployment of special economic zones for the industrial development of the country. All relevant information on procurement processes in the agency is being provided to the Auditor General's office and the new management remains committed to the anti-corruption agenda and value for money.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully completed the airlift of relief materials donated by First Lady Remi Tinubu to victims of the September 10 flood disaster in Maiduguri, Borno State. The items, provided under her ‘Renewed Hope Agenda,’ included food, clothing, sanitary products, and children’s toys. They were flown from Abuja to Maiduguri using a NAF C-130 aircraft.The materials were received by NAF officers, led by the Air Component Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, and handed over to the Borno State government for distribution. 

NAFDAC has stopped the registration of alcohol in sachets and small volume Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and glass bottles below 200ml, and introduced other stringent regulatory measures to curb abuse of alcohol. Manufacturers of low volume alcohol beverages (200ml) have been directed to reformulate their products to stipulated standards free of charge. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has set up a task force to track and dismantle drug cartels behind the production and distribution of methamphetamine, popularly called Mkpuru Mmiri. This has resulted in the arrest of 12,306 suspects, conviction of 1,400 offenders, seizure of over 3.4 million kilograms of assorted drugs and cash worth over N130 billion, and counselling and rehabilitation of 7,761 drug users.

NAFDAC has stopped the registration of alcohol in sachets and small volume Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and glass bottles below 200ml, and introduced other stringent regulatory measures to curb abuse of alcohol. Manufacturers of low volume alcohol beverages (200ml) have been directed to reformulate their products to stipulated standards free of charge. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has set up a task force to track and dismantle drug cartels behind the production and distribution of methamphetamine, popularly called Mkpuru Mmiri. This has resulted in the arrest of 12,306 suspects, conviction of 1,400 offenders, seizure of over 3.4 million kilograms of assorted drugs and cash worth over N130 billion, and counselling and rehabilitation of 7,761 drug users.

NAFDAC has stopped the registration of alcohol in sachets and small volume Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and glass bottles below 200ml, and introduced other stringent regulatory measures to curb abuse of alcohol. Manufacturers of low volume alcohol beverages (200ml) have been directed to reformulate their products to stipulated standards free of charge, and DIBAN has been given a marching order to embark on nationwide campaigns against underage consumption of alcohol. NAFDAC has committed to strict implementation of regulatory measures to safeguard the health of Nigerians, especially vulnerable youths, against the dangers of reckless consumption of alcohol. Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa has set up a task force to track and dismantle drug cartels behind the production and distribution of methamphetamine. NDLEA's achievements in 2021 include the arrest of 12,306 suspects, conviction of 1,400 offenders, seizure of over 3.4 million kilograms of drugs and cash worth over N130 billion, and counselling and rehabilitation of 7,761 drug users.

The Naira fell to a record low over-the-counter on the last trading day of 2021, closing at N435/$. This came amid uncertainty about the market outlook as the economy wobbles into a new year. The Naira had sold at a discount of over 15% to a dollar at the official Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange (NAFEX) window last year. The forward market, which measures the perception about the near-to-medium-term outlook of the Naira, moved on a much narrower range of between N452.12/$ and N453.12/$. The dollar traded for about N475/$ in the early days of last year and hit N575/$ at the height of last year's currency crisis. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has pledged to rally convergence around NAFEX, but a full rate harmonisation has not been achieved. The recent tumbling of the Naira at the official window is being interpreted differently, with some experts seeing it as the beginning of a more liberalised market. A former Assistant Director at the CBN, Stan Ukeje, told The Guardian that the market would need to be deepened with more participants enlisted to reduce the intervention of the apex bank and make it a truly market-driven window.

The 1999 constitution as amended is not a genuine legal document, as it is predicated and hinged in a declaration which is not true to wit – "we the people". This has led to a number of buildings being erected on structurally defective foundations, and for the nation to survive, grow and thrive, the foundation must be totally re-engineered and the only way is to involve the people, set up a Constituent Assembly to formulate a constitution, debate it, and put it through a referendum for adoption or rejection by the Nigeria people. The current parliament must set up a constitutional body to ensure that any constitution is production-led and fashioned by the Nigerian people. The argument has been made that the body set up under President Goodluck Jonathan's administration had done this job, but it has no legal authority or backing. General Buhari said the exercise was a waste of public funds and its recommendations have been deliberately left to gather dust on bookshelves. The kind of body that is envisaged for this new constitution must have only two representatives per state.

The 1999 constitution as amended is not a genuine legal document, as it is predicated and hinged in a declaration which is not true to wit – "we the people". This has led to a number of buildings being erected on structurally defective foundations, and for the nation to survive, grow and thrive, the foundation must be totally re-engineered and the only way is to involve the people, set up a Constituent Assembly to formulate a constitution, debate it, and put it through a referendum for adoption or rejection by the Nigeria people. The current parliament must set up a constitutional body to ensure that any constitution is production-led and fashioned by the Nigerian people. The argument has been made that the body set up under President Goodluck Jonathan's administration had done this job, but it has no legal authority or backing. General Buhari said the exercise was a waste of public funds and its recommendations have been deliberately left to gather dust on bookshelves. The kind of body that is envisaged for this new constitution must have only two representatives per state.

The two chambers of the National Assembly have harmonised their positions and inserted the "consensus" mode of nominating candidates by political parties for elections in the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2010. The House suspended its rules and dissolved into the committee of the whole, presided over by the Chairman and Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila, to unanimously adopt and harmonise the proposed law. The new version of the bill will be transmitted to the President in seven days. The Senate President has warned political parties against flouting provisions of the law, threatening that the erring ones stand the chance of not participating in the elections. Senate Leader Abdullahi Yahaya Abubakar sponsored a motion to rescind Clause 84 of the Electoral Act No.6 2010(Amendment) Bill, 2022 and committal to the committee of the whole. The Senate passed the Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Egbe, Kogi State Establishment Bill for second reading. Senator Smart Adeyemi argued for the citing of the university in Egbe on the availability of the "massive medical facility" at the 70-year-old Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA Hospital). ECWA Hospital was established in 1951 by the Canada-based Sudan Interior Mission (SIM)

Nigerians mourned the death of former Head of Interim National Government (ING), Chief Ernest Shonekan, who passed away in Lagos, aged 85. President Muhammadu Buhari directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast from today till Friday as a mark of respect for the former elder statesman, who left his flourishing business career to become Head of Government at a delicate time when the country needed someone of his calm mien and pedigree to save the ship of state from sinking. Former military President Ibrahim Babangida said Shonekan was a patriot, an urbane and refined gentleman, a thoroughbred boardroom maestro and a cosmopolitan mind who was devoted to his country. Senate President Ahmad Lawan described Shonekan as a lawyer, business captain, boardroom guru and statesman. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo described Shonekan as "a unifying force for the nation" and former President Goodluck Jonathan described him as "an elder statesman, well-loved for his sincerity and sense of purpose". Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said Shonekan's sad exit came at a time the country needed his leadership, wealth of experience and wisdom to tackle the multifaceted challenges facing the nation.

NDLEA has arrested three suspected trans-border drug traffickers with 48,000 tablets of 225mg Tramadol in Mubi, Adamawa, and 1,500 kilogrammes of imported Loud and other illicit substances in raids across Lagos and Edo States. The suspects were apprehended while trying to smuggle the drugs into Cameroon Republic. NDLEA officers have recovered passports from six different countries, 12 parcels of cannabis, 126.5 grammes of methamphetamine, 19 bags of cannabis, Diazepam, Exol-5 and other psychoactive substances, as well as weapons such as knives, cutlasses, sticks, catapults and charms. The Chairman of the Agency, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, has commended officers and men of Lagos, MMIA, Adamawa, Plateau and Edo commands for their tenacity and vigilance.

NDLEA intercepted 1.5 million tablets and capsules of pharmaceutical opioids such as Tramadol, Exol-5 and Diazepam loaded in Onitsha, Anambra State and heading to Yauri, Kebbi State, and 425,000 Diazepam tablets were recovered at Segemu, Kano. N1.413,344 was seized along with arms and ammunition from a suspected bandit and a drug kingpin in Plateau State, and 137.754 kilogrammes of assorted illicit drugs were recovered during interdiction operations across seven states. Attempts to export 73 parcels of cannabis to the United Kingdom and 50 parcels of cannabis consignment to the United States were also thwarted. The Agency arrested a suspected bandit, Abdullahi Usman Ahmad, and leader of a cocaine distribution ring in Plateau, Chibueze Okoro John, with quantities of cocaine and Tramadol. In Delta State, 38-year-old Ejike Obiora was arrested for attempting to smuggle Cocaine and Heroin into the Nigerian Correctional Centre.

Senator Ali Ndume (PDP, Borno South) has called on the Federal Government to name and prosecute Boko Haram terrorists and their sponsors this year. The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has said the Federal Government is ready to deploy Super Tucano fighter jets against bandits and terrorists in the North West and North Central, following the court order declaring them as terrorists. Malami said the military had been reluctant to deploy the aircraft outside the North East due to the conditions attached to the sale by the United States of America.

The North-East Development Commission (NEDC) has held a stakeholders' consultative forum for its ambitious development initiative, the North-East Stabilisation and Development Master Plan (NESDMP). The NESDMP seeks to identify the needs of the region and spell out strategies, policies and remedial interventionist measures for addressing them on a short and long-term basis. The Commission consulted relevant stakeholders in 112 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and with humanitarian, development and peacebuilding actors, representatives of member states, CSOs/CBOs, and private and federal legislators from the zone. The North East Development Commission (NEDC) is developing a Master Plan to promote and facilitate the physical and socio-economic development of the North East region. At the Wednesday, January 26, 2022 interaction in Abuja, the NEDC presented an overview and current status of the Master Plan and sought to harness inputs from the MDA's and security agencies for inclusion in the plan. The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouq, and the six-member state governments in the region have been providing maximum cooperation and support. At the stakeholders' engagement forum on the Master Plan, Zulum urged state governors in the region to work together towards actualisation of the plan.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has invited three players to replace Napoli star Victor Osimhen, Cyprus-based Abdullahi Shehu and Watford attacker Emmanuel Dennis in the Super Eagles squad for the 33rd Africa Cup of Nations, which begins in Cameroon next weekend. The goalkeeping department is untouched, but the forced exclusion of Cyprus-based Shehu has made way for hard-as-nails right back Tyrone Ebuehi and England-based Oluwasemilogo Ajayi. Henry Onyekuru, who was also at the last finals in Egypt, has been excused to provide room for Czech Republic-based forward Peter Olayinka. The tournament will end on 6th February.

The Federal Government is exploring new measures to raise revenue through tax reforms, but there are concerns that no amount of tax revenue will be enough to finance the magnitude of fiscal indiscipline by the executives. Debt has become the default option for the government in addressing gaps in its financing, raising concerns about repayment capacity and abuse by the executive. Nigeria's total debt stock rose from N32.9 trillion as of December 2020 to N39.6 trillion in November 2021. Despite higher revenue from rising oil prices, production challenges have put the country on the edge, with production averaging 1.3 million barrels per day. With over N7 trillion in fiscal deficit, the country may be heading towards double-digit deficit financing in the 2022 financial year. The Senate has developed a strategy to engage with revenue-generating agencies on how to make them achieve their targets and generate more revenues in 2022 to narrow the margins. The 2022 Budget is predicated on significant borrowing, making the country caught between the devil and the deep blue sea. To fund infrastructure, the country has to borrow and resort to other sources of funding. To improve on the revenue to GDP ratio, the country needs to generate more revenues.

Nigeria has dropped in the 2021 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) ranking released by Transparency International (TI). The country scored 24 out of 100 points in the 2021 index, ranking 154th out of 180 countries surveyed. CISLAC Executive Director Auwal Ibrahim Musa cited security sector corruption, high level of financial recklessness, abuse of budgetary processes and failure of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to follow due process of appropriation as reasons Nigeria was ranked low in the CPI. He also called for the National Judicial Council (NJC) to ensure that officers appointed are competent and qualified. The NJC should shun nepotism in its appointment of judges and take disciplinary actions against them, while the Auditor General revealed that N49 billion was spent by nine MDAs without appropriation by the National Assembly. The government should also address the shrinking civic space and clampdown on freedom of speech, as well as the arbitrary and illogical decision to ban Twitter for seven months. Finally, systemic corruption in the Nigeria Police Force has continued unabated, putting the country in bad light.

The oil and gas resources are held in trust by the Federal Government on behalf of the citizens of Nigeria for the overall benefit and development of the nation. The provision of derivative funds for host communities, particularly the Niger Delta, is an implicit recognition of the primary ownership of the people of the land in which the oil resource resides. The doctrine of Public Trust of Natural Resources and equitable distribution of same is essential to bring the present discourse into specific perspective and for the enlightenment of those who might have been swayed by the perspicacious lustre of charm. The Federal Government is a steward/custodian of natural resources to be harnessed and distributed as best as possible to serve the common good. Section 17(2)(d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) states that exploitation of natural resources in any form whatsoever for reasons other than the good of the community shall be prevented. This critical relationship between ownership and trusteeship of natural resources is a vital point in the Nigerian polity and socio-economic development.

Vandals have caused the shutdown of over seven power plants in less than two months, with the Trans-Forcardos Pipeline (TFP) and TotalEnergies pipeline (NOPL Line) being the most affected. This is coming as transmission and distribution bottlenecks pushed average stranded electricity generation to 2,248.50 megawatts in 2021. Vandalism is a huge drain on the country, with Nigeria losing almost 200 million barrels of crude oil in the first 11 months of 2021. The Association of Power Generation Companies, Dr Joy Ogaji, warned that power generation would be under threat if vandalism continues, but Special Adviser to President Buhari on Infrastructure, Ahmad Zakari, noted that the sector is set for monumental growth in 2022. Zakari also said that the national mass metering of the Federal Government would move to phase one to reduce the metering gap by 50 per cent before 2023.

The Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies announced that they will return 400,000 barrels per day to the global oil market in February. Nigeria is expected to pump 1.7 million barrels a day, but lingering challenges may undermine the country's capacity. The deadline for compensation over previous overproduction will be extended until June. The alliance is scheduled to meet on February 2 to set production levels for March. OPEC Secretary-General Sanusi Barkindo forecasts world oil demand to grow 5.7 mb/d in 2021 and 4.2 mb/d in 2022. Non-OPEC liquids supply growth in 2021 is forecast at 0.7 mb/d y-o-y to average 63.7 mb/d. OPEC crude oil production increased by 275 tb/d in November m-o-m to average 27.72 mb/d. Saudi energy minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman closed the December meeting and declared the new meeting open.

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has denied any form of server breaches, saying its servers are fully optimised and certified to the ISO 27001:2013 Information Security Management System Standard. NIMC Director General Aliyu Aziz said the commission has gone to great lengths to ensure Nigeria's database is adequately protected, and assured the public that it will uphold the highest ethical standards in data security and ensure compliance with data protection and privacy regulations. The NIMC does not use or store information on AWS or any public cloud, and has made its app available to the public to eliminate challenges in accessing NINs. The public should be aware that possession of a NIN slip does not equal access to the National Identity Database, and that no licensed partner/vendor is authorised to scan and store copies of individuals' NIN slips.

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has expressed readiness to partner with the Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG) company to increase gas use in cooking, transportation and power generation.  The NMDPRA CEO applauded the NLNG for prioritising domestic supply and reiterated the federal government's goal of deepening LPG and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) especially for autogas. The NLNG Managing Director, Philip Mshelbila, also revealed plans to commence operation for the Nigerian domestic LNG market in 2022 in line with the government's desire to boost local consumption. He pledged the company's dedication and commitment to making Nigeria an energy-sufficient nation.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Houses of Assembly members in the North West states have endorsed Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State for President in 2023. The endorsement was disclosed via a communiqué issued after an extraordinary meeting of the forum in Abuja, which had in attendance former state legislators of the zone. The North West lawmakers also urged the APC Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) to zone the party's presidential slot to the North. They also passed a vote of confidence in President Muhammadu Buhari for his leadership and passed a confidence vote in Governor Mai Mala Buni-led CECPC for its positively aggressive repositioning of the party.

The coalition of Northern Groups, Students' Wing (CNG-SW) has threatened to shut down the region over the recent hike in tuition fees by tertiary institutions across the Northern states. The group also demanded the Northern elite and other stakeholders to speak up against the passage of the Education Loan Bill as the sustainability of the loan is not guaranteed. The group has taken time to assess the dangers the hike in tuition would pose to Nigerians, especially to the Northern region, which has been abandoned to the mercy of rampaging banditry and insurgency. The North is being held to ransom by bandits, and the hike in tuition is part of a calculated plan to weaken the region educationally and pauperise it economically. This will lead to massive dropouts and return millions of youth to the streets, while returning students will have to give up their dreams of higher education.

Novak Djokovic, Serbia's global tennis talisman, tested positive for COVID-19 on December 16, 2021 and was unable to participate in the Australian Open. He appealed the decision, but three Federal Court of Australia judges unanimously dismissed his application. His iconoclasm had come back to bite him, and he has made an unforced error not on the tennis court but outside it. He has won the Australian Open nine times, French open twice, Wimbledon six times and US open three times, bringing his total grand slam haul to 20. Djokovic is a 6'2" tall, aggressive baseline player with a high court coverage span and high agility. He speaks five languages and eats a vegetarian, plant-based diet with a bit of fish. He is not a fan of surgeries or medications and believes that human bodies are self-healing mechanisms.

The Nigeria Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF) announced that its partnership with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) to support vaccination of one million Nigerians in Adamawa, Edo, Imo, Katsina, Nasarawa and Ogun States by January 2022 has resulted in the vaccination of 1,651,278 people, exceeding the target by over 60%. NSSF is a private-sector-led institution founded by Global Citizen and Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) to combat the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic through fundraising to address three core COVID-19 response areas: supporting the most vulnerable, strengthening health care systems and re-skilling of Nigerian youth. NSSF is governed by a statutory board of experienced members.

The Nigeria Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF) announced that its partnership with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) to support vaccination of one million Nigerians in Adamawa, Edo, Imo, Katsina, Nasarawa and Ogun States by January 2022 has resulted in the vaccination of 1,651,278 people, exceeding the target by over 60%. NSSF is a private-sector-led institution founded by Global Citizen and Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) to combat the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic through fundraising to address three core COVID-19 response areas: supporting the most vulnerable, strengthening health care systems and re-skilling of Nigerian youth. NSSF is governed by a statutory board of experienced members.

Stanley Nwabali saved two penalty kicks as the Super Eagles defeated South Africa in the Africa Cup of Nations final in Cote d'Ivoire. The game was tied at 1-1 after 120 minutes of normal and added time. The Super Eagles held their nerve for a 4-2 shootout win, with substitute Kelechi Iheanacho converting the winning penalty. Nigeria opened the game through skipper William Troost-Ekong's spot-kick. VAR awarded a penalty to South Africa for a foul in the build-up. Teboho Mokoena converted it to force extra time, and penalties followed. Evidence Makgopa's miss handed the advantage back to the Super Eagles, and Iheanacho had the chance to win it, taking the Super Eagles to their first final since 2013. Nigeria had kept four consecutive clean sheets at AFCON.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo has berated the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) for banning the Nigerian anthem in all public schools in the South East. It warned that if implemented, it could cause the Federal Government to rescind its plans to release detained IPOB Leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. Instead, IPOB should join Ohanaeze to promote Igbo language, cultural heritage and values in South East schools. The group stressed that the recent insecurity challenges in South East were created by herdsmen masquerading as cattlemen.

The Igbo apex socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has appealed to stakeholders in the northern region to back its aspiration to produce Nigeria's next president in 2023. It has earmarked N10 billion to support any candidate of Igbo extraction that emerges for the presidential race, and has met with religious groups and clerics in the North. It has also promised to lobby all parts of the country for power shift to the South East region. The Ohanaeze delegation argued that there should be no more abusive words between the North and the South East, and that Igbo have investments worth over N1 trillion in the North and can take over from President Muhammadu Buhari. Shettima responded that it was good to negotiate when seeking political power, and that nobody achieved good results through threats. He stated that politics was about dialogue and negotiation and that people should rise above board.

The Apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has warned politicians against violating the gentlemanly pact on rotating Nigeria's presidency between North and South, insisting Igbo should succeed President Muhammadu Buhari in 2023. It urged the North to consider the security implications of retaining power beyond 2023 and concede power to the South in the interest of peace and stability. It also took a swipe at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, saying he should not have sent his foot-soldiers to the Southeast. Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, a presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has assured Nigerians that the nation will be more united if he emerges victorious in the forthcoming presidential election. He said the Southeast is the greatest proponents of a united Nigeria, and that the civil war was not because the Southeast wanted to break Nigeria.

The Apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has warned politicians against violating the gentlemanly pact on rotating Nigeria's presidency between North and South, insisting Igbo should succeed President Muhammadu Buhari in 2023. It urged the North to consider the security implications of retaining power beyond 2023 and concede power to the South in the interest of peace and stability. It also took a swipe at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, saying he should not have sent his foot-soldiers to the Southeast. Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, a presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has assured Nigerians that the nation will be more united if he emerges victorious in the forthcoming presidential election. He said the Southeast is the greatest proponents of a united Nigeria, and that the civil war was not because the Southeast wanted to break Nigeria.

The Olubadan-in-Council will hold a press conference today to decide on succession plan for the next Olubadan of Ibadan. Chief Lekan Balogun is widely believed to be the next Olubadan, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has applauded the peaceful reign of the late Oba Saliu Adetunji. Olubadan was a peace-loving monarch who reigned for six years in Ibadan and Oyo State. Bishop Samuel Olawode of Maranatha Cathedral compared the late monarch to King Hezekiah and stressed the need for righteous living. Oba David Omisore, the father of Senator Iyiola Omisore, has died at the age of 90.

The Ondo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed outrage over the purchase of two bulletproof Lexus 670 LXE SUVs valued at N1.5 billion, which Governor Rotimi Akeredolu bought for himself in spite of government's inability to pay workers salaries. PDP Publicity Secretary Kennedy Peretei described the purchase as "executive recklessness and insensitivity to the plight of the people" and lamented that the governor could not buy one bag of rice for his party supporters during the Yuletide season. Festus Akingbaso, representative of Idanre Constituency in Ondo State House of Assembly, has lamented that the state government is starving the legislature of funds. He distributed 25 motorcycles, 20 deep freezers, 10 gas cookers and burners, 10 dryers, 20 sewing machines, 20 generators, 20 grinding machines and five refrigerators to his constituents, valued at over N28 million. Former state PDP Chairman, Dr. Tayo Dairo, noted that the empowerment programme was to ensure people were gainfully engaged in the private sector, as a way to reduce unemployment in the state.

The African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA) came into force on January 1, 2021, but Nigeria continues to lag behind due to structural challenges, Coronavirus pandemic and lack of consensus on trade protocols and strategy. Despite the ratification of the trade deal among African countries, the political will to implement the deal remains in doubt. Nigeria has lost opportunities to enjoy projected income through tariffs on its sensitive products as some of the products will have to be liberalised within the 10-year period agreed in the deal. Stalling implementation also means that most of the products on the sensitive list will be liberalised, putting the country at a disadvantage. The deadline for 90% tariff liberalisation was July 1, 2020. AfCFTA is expected to liberalise seven per cent of "sensitive products" over a 10-year period, but disruptions of global supply chains and non-tariff barriers have limited its potential. The Protocol Relating to the Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence, and Right of Establishment is expected to serve the interests of African workers, entrepreneurs, and the large informal sector, but only four countries have deposited their instruments of ratification at the AU depository. Intra-African trade accounts for 17 per cent of African exports, but Nigeria's share is low.

Eighteen years after the initial review of third-party motor insurance to N5,000, the premium may rise to N7,500 before the end of the first quarter of this year due to rising costs of vehicle repairs. This is good news for the insurance sector, but could lead to road users abandoning genuine policy for fake insurance papers. Other African countries pay higher premiums, but market penetration remains low in Nigeria. The automotive supply chain has become costlier, leading to a higher cost of parts replacement and maintenance. Private car owners, who spoke to The Guardian, said the review of the Third-Party Motor Insurance is not humane at this time, coupled with the prevailing economic challenges. The industry survey revealed that only 2.53 million out of 12 million registered vehicles have genuine motor insurance, leaving 9.5 million uninsured. The Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) also confirmed that only three million vehicles out of 13 million on Nigerian roads are insured, indicating that 77 per cent are uninsured.

The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Monthly Oil Market Report (MOMR) showed that Nigeria's production in December was lower than expected, with the country's rig count dropping further to six from seven. Despite a projected 1.86 million barrels daily oil production in the 2021 budget, Nigeria recorded a deficit of almost 200 million barrels in the first 11 months of 2021 due to production challenges. OPEC has left unchanged its world oil demand growth projections for 2022, signalling the potential impact of the Covid-19 Omicron variant and uncertainty over global inflation levels, supply bottlenecks, trade disputes and appetite for transport fuels. It also kept its non-OPEC liquids output growth forecast unchanged at 3.02mn b/d.

The internal crisis rocking the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has deepened and there is no resolution in sight before the national convention and governorship primary scheduled for February 2022. Ogbeni Rauf Aregesola, the immediate past governor of the state and Minister of Interior, has revealed that there are two factions in the state chapter at present, one chaired by Hon Razaq Salinsile and one chaired by Elder Lowo Adebiyi. Aregbesola's outburst has rubbished last year's intervention by the national leader of APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Governor Bisi Akande. President Muhammadu Buhari must reconcile the political warlords. The feud between two gladiators, Oyetola's loyalists and those of Aregbesola, is worsening despite efforts by the national leadership of the party to reconcile them and place the party on the path of victory. Salinsile is heading the minister's faction of the executives while Prince Gboyega Famodun is heading the faction loyal to Oyetola. Both factions are bent on producing separate governorship candidates for the forthcoming governorship poll. A political group, 'Ileri Oluwa', is rooting and canvassing for the governor's re-election, while the pro-Aregbesola group, TOP, is doing everything possible to frustrate the incumbent's second term aspiration. A party source told The Guardian that the strategy is to repay Oyetola for how he rubbished his immediate predecessor by reversing most of his policies.

The National Assembly resumes plenary today after the Yuletide break, and governors elected on the platform of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have called on legislators not to sustain President Muhammadu Buhari's veto of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2021. They re-echoed the position of the former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega, that the early conclusion of the amendment is vital for credible elections. They also lamented the continued state of insecurity in the country, persistent and ceaseless flow of Nigerians' blood on a daily basis, and the near collapse of security situation. They urged Mr President to reconsider his position and consider decentralisation and restructuring of the security architecture as the most viable solution, together with proper arming, funding and training requirements for security agencies. The governors and CSOs have called on the legislature and President Buhari to conclude the process of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill by January 31, first by retransmitting the bill to the President for assent by Friday, January 21, and then by assenting to the bill within one week. The CSOs warned that further delay on the conclusion of the amendment process was inimical to the preparations for Ekiti and Osun elections.

The Artisan Fishermen Association of Nigeria (ARFAN), Niger Delta chapter, has demanded the immediate payment of $3.4billion fine from Shell for the Shell Bonga Oil Spill of December 20, 2011. A communiqué signed by Samuel Ayadi, coordinator of ARFAN Niger Delta and Chairman ARFAN, Akwa Ibom State, noted that the fines were upheld by the National Assembly and the Federal High Court in Lagos. The communiqué lamented that Shell's failure to comply had foisted great hardship on the fishermen on the coastal waters, leading to the untimely death of many of the members of the association.

Nigerians may need to adjust their expectations ahead of possible removal of subsidy as the rising price of crude oil may push Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to N403 per litre. The Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) has initiated talks with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) on the proposed removal of subsidy on petrol. The National Economic Council (NEC) has disclosed that a decision on the removal of petrol subsidy will be made in June when the provision for its payment in the 2022 budget expires. The NLC has mandated all states organs to intensify mobilisation for next Thursday's nationwide protest against the Nigerian government over its proposed increase in the pump price of petrol. Stakeholders have insisted that liberalisation of the downstream sector, including removal of subsidy, were necessary steps if the country must end its borrowing and revive the downstream segment of the nation's petroleum industry. The Federal Government had opted for deregulation of the downstream, partially removing subsidy from petrol, resulting in a doubling of the pump price. In December 2021, the NLC and TUC forced the Federal Government to a dialogue, where the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) agreed to slash N5 from N167.44 to N162.44. This was in contrast to expectations that the signing of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) would automatically commence deregulation.

The Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) has demanded the immediate resignation of the Governor Mala Buni-led Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee, while the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP) Continuous Monitoring Approach (CMA) is a programme to promote global aviation safety. Salihu Lukman has demanded the immediate resignation of the Governor Mala Buni-led Caretaker Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) if it cannot conduct the national convention of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He argued that the CECPC has made up its mind to be disrespectful to the decision of President Muhammadu Buhari, in conjunction with the Governor Atiku Bagudu-led PGF, to hold the convention. Musa Nuhu, the Assistant General Manager in the Directorate of Air Transport Regulations (DATR) of Kaduna Regional Office of NCAA, rallied all media stakeholders behind the progamme, while Senate President Ahmad Lawan urged politicians to be selfless and work in the interest of the country. Nigeria is well-positioned to develop a strong, vibrant digital economy, despite its political, social and economic hurdles. Lawan urged journalists to eschew sensationalism and focus on fundamental issues that should be addressed regardless of political affiliation. He argued that journalists' watchdog role is essential for fostering stability.

Prof. Adedotun Oluwole Phillips was a public servant par excellence whose entire life was defined around service. His contributions to the public service in Nigeria tie into Nigeria's effort to make sense of the state and future of her public service as a backstop to her development and progress. The Phillipson-Adebo Commission of 1953 kickstarted the series of reform commissions that culminated in the emergence of the Nigerian public service system, and the other post-independence reform efforts meant to complete the organizational development dynamics of the civil service, convert her structural frameworks into institutional frame, and strengthen its capability readiness for national integration and development. The Nigerianisation Policy sought to recruit Nigerians of different ethno-cultural orientations into the civil service, but the over-bloatedness of the system led to a crippling bureaucratic culture. This led to the gradual evolution of a structural pattern that whittled down the civil service's capacities to promote good governance, and the corruption of the governance and accountability framework of the public service.

The year 2021 was a difficult one for many Nigerians, with a new variant of COVID-19 pandemic, a debilitating strike by medical doctors, an economy that was walking on crutches, high prices of food items, and poverty. Insecurity has become a permanent feature of urban and rural life, and several governors and other community leaders have giving their citizens the option of self-help. This has led to the deabeen ths of many citizens in various parts of the country, and has thrown the nation into the circle of a close-to Banana Republic. Pro-democracy forces have a task to perform by wagging a fierce finger at anti-democracy forces. The Buhari government is expected to hand over to a new set of rulers in May 2023, and the two major parties APC and PDP are in the process of selecting their presidential candidates. Virtually all the minor parties have faded out of the scene, and a third force made up of pro-democracy activists, neophyte politicians and EndSARS revolt strategists has emerged

Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), a former head of state of Nigeria, has cautioned that the country's mounting suffering could spark a new national firestorm worse than the 2020 #EndSARS protests. He said that over 80 million Nigerians are still living in unnecessary poverty and that unemployment and underemployment are still at historic highs. He also issued a warning about the impending sharp increase in fuel prices, which will put many more people in poverty. The demographic groups most impacted by the grim economic prognosis are young people and women, and if the grievances of these groups are not carefully controlled, they might easily explode into a national firestorm. In Nigeria, where 350,000 people have died and three million people live under insecurity, the proliferation of weaponry is a big contributor.

President Muhammadu Buhari has not directed anyone to implement fuel subsidy removal, and the Senate has urged the current administration to immortalise the late Chief Ernest Shonekan. The Green Chamber has also proposed to standardise house rents in Abuja by ensuring three months and subsequent monthly payments at the expiration of the one or two years first payment by the tenant.

President Muhammadu Buhari has not directed anyone to implement fuel subsidy removal, and the Senate has urged the current administration to immortalise the late Chief Ernest Shonekan. The Green Chamber has also proposed to standardise house rents in Abuja by ensuring three months and subsequent monthly payments at the expiration of the one or two years first payment by the tenant.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged Nigerians to disregard claims by National Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Ahmed Bola Tinubu, that Permanent Voters' Cards (PVCs) have an expiry date. Chief Technical Adviser to the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Bolade Eyinla, said that the PVCs issued in recent years remain valid for all elections conducted by INEC, urging Nigerians not to attempt re-registration. Chief Press Secretary to INEC, Rotimi Oyekanmi, said that double registration is an offence under our laws, and that once a name appears on the National Register of Voters, it stays there permanently. The number of fresh names in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) is 5,027,204, and the commission is undertaking a comprehensive cleaning up of the voter register to remove underage persons who may attempt to vote during the 2023 elections.

The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the missing 178,459 arms and ammunition in the Nigeria Police Force as contained in the 2019 report of the Auditor General for the Federation. Deputy Speaker Ahmed Idris Wase said the issue of missing arms may not be limited to the Police alone.

Residents of Dangbala community in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State have raised the alarm over the influx of illegal miners in their neighbourhood. Four suspected illegal miners were arrested and detained by local vigilantes, who handed them to the police for prosecution. The presence of illegal miners in the community is capable of jeopardising the security situation and contributing to local conflicts. Allegations of some community elders' involvement in the illegal mining activities are also under threat. Collins Nicholas, a spokesman of the Akoko-Edo community, demanded for the prosecution of those arrested in connection with illegal mining. He said those behind the illegal mining had also resorted to frivolous petition writing against those opposed to their criminal activities to mislead the public. Haruna Yusuf confirmed the arrest of four miners, noting that the matter was being handled by the police command in Benin. Nicholas called on all well-meaning Akoko-Edo people to speak out against this invasion and the wanton stealing of God given resources.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has called on his appointees to resign if they have any political ambition ahead of the 2023 elections. He noted that the administration still had time to deliver on its promises before the next governorship election in late 2023 and that cabinet members eyeing other elective offices must not combine politics with governance. He also said there would be a periodic evaluation of activities of various ministries this year to ensure that set targets were met. The Bayelsa West Patriotic Front (BWPF) has urged Senator Seriake Dickson to remain committed to the principle of rotation and base his actions on equity, fairness and sense of belonging. Despite the theatrics being displayed by the former governor in his bid to scuttle the existing rotational agreement, Diri should stand firm to uphold the peaceful co-existence in the ruling PDP and show true statesmanship and upright leadership qualities.

Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has revealed that the Rivers State government has discovered one of the state's Legacy 600 aircraft, flown to and abandoned in Germany since 2012 by the then Governor Chibuike Amaechi administration. Wike led a delegation of Rivers leaders to General Atomics Aerotec in Munich, Germany, where the aircraft had been abandoned for 10 years, and said efforts to repair and retrieve the aircraft would cost the state over 300 million Euros. Wike had to travel to Munich, Germany with a state delegation to prove that the Legacy 600 aircraft had been discovered and returned to Nigeria. Froetschi expressed delight that Wike took the initiative to repair and return the aircraft to Nigeria for use by the state government.

Justice Mohammed stated that since the police is an agency of the Federal Government, it is the duty of the Federal Government to establish and maintain the Nigeria Police Force and not the States.

He ordered the Federal Government to refund to the Rivers State Government its share of the funds from the Federation Account that have been illegally deducted since it commenced the deduction of funds based on provisions of Section 4(1) (a) and (b) of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund Act.

Justice Mohammed granted reliefs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7 as prayed by the plaintiff, and in respect of reliefs 6 and 8 that relate to refund, the judge said they should apply to Rivers State.

The trial judge, meanwhile, declined to grant similar order of refund to the other 35 States on the ground that they were not parties in the suit. According to him, Rivers State as the plaintiff in the suit, did not file it on behalf of other States.

Meanwhile, Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike in his reaction, said the court verdict is a resounding victory for democracy because the Nigeria Police Trust Fund Act, which the Federal Government relied on to deduct the funds from the Federation Account is in contravention of the 1999 Constitution.

“For me, it is a victory for democracy. And I have always told people, it is not whether you must win or not, but it is a matter of when you see issues that you think are in contravention of our Constitution and other laws, there is nothing wrong for you to challenge it, so that the right thing can be done.

“After all, if the money is given back to us, we can still on our own say police, we want to support you with this. But not the Federal Government arbitrarily deducting our money from the Federation Account and putting it to Police Trust Fund. I don’t think that, that is right and I thank God that today the court has made a clear pronouncement on it,” he enthused.

The governor acknowledged that though the National Assembly is constitutionally empowered to enact laws, in enacting the Police Trust Fund Act, they went beyond their powers by contravening the provisions of the Constitution of Nigeria.

Speaking further on the order of the court that the State government should be refunded the money deducted from its share to fund the police, Governor Wike said the order would put an end to impunity.

“We are happy that the court has said that they should refund us all the money deducted and luckily the principal parties, Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal Commission, the Accountant General, Attorney General Office they are all involved in the case.

“It is not about Rivers State, but it is about the impunity, it is about the violation of the constitution as if anybody can wake up in the morning and just decide to do one or two things, which is wrong. And I am happy for the decision we took, which has proved us right and I thank my legal team as well,” he declared.

Russia and China have blocked the United Nations Security Council from supporting a decision by the West African economic bloc ECOWAS to impose new sanctions on Mali, after its military leaders proposed staying in power for up to five years before staging elections. Three African council members, Kenya, Ghana and Gabon, spoke to reporters to back the regional bloc's position. France, Mali's former colonial power, and the United States have also expressed support for the ECOWAS sanctions. ECOWAS has taken strong actions to end the crisis in Mali, and the US, US ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, and Algeria have called on the military to negotiate with ECOWAS. China has expressed support for Mali's military government, while Russia has rejected the proposed council statement as unbalanced and expressed sympathy to the government. France has condemned the deployment of mercenaries from Russia's Wagner Group, and expressed regret that Mali's transitional authorities are unable to restore government control in many parts of the country.

Olumide Akpata, President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has hinted that a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and six other lawyers believed to have aided judges in the issuance of conflicting orders may soon face the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee. He made the disclosure at a press conference in Abuja, where he addressed stakeholders on the rationale behind this year's Justice Sector Summit held today in the FCT. Akpata regretted that there had been a serious gap in the justice system, especially in the area of judges' appointments, funding of the sector and undue delays of litigations. The NBA is organising the summit in collaboration with other groups and Vice President Yemi Osibanjo.

Olumide Akpata, President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), has hinted that a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and six other lawyers believed to have aided judges in the issuance of conflicting orders may soon face the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee. He made the disclosure at a press conference in Abuja, where he addressed stakeholders on the rationale behind this year's Justice Sector Summit held today in the FCT. Akpata regretted that there had been a serious gap in the justice system, especially in the area of judges' appointments, funding of the sector and undue delays of litigations. The NBA is organising the summit in collaboration with other groups and Vice President Yemi Osibanjo.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said the Opebi-Ojota Link Bridge will be completed in 20 months and that his administration will continue to promote economic prosperity through sustainable road infrastructure. This includes maintenance of over 832 roads, covering 252km.

The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has signed the 2020 appropriation bill of N1.758 trillion into law, with N591 billion spent on recurrent expenditure and N1.166 trillion on capital expenditure. He is optimistic that the state will experience a stronger 2022, and is excited about the benefits that will accrue to the state. Yishawu said the assembly was able to deliver the budget on time due to the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, instructing lawmakers to get to work and ensure the budget was delivered on time without compromising standards.

Nigeria's President Tinubu has re-echoed his views on subsidy removal in his inaugural speech as the 16th president. Marketers have been affected by the announcement, with many filling stations stopping dispensing. The government has not provided a clear pathway for the removal of subsidies, leading to concerns about chaos and marketers hoarding products. Stakeholders have backed the plan, but warned that without proper consultation and planning, the removal could backfire. Energy expert Ameh Madaki believes a phased approach with proper consultation and pricing planning would prevent disruption to the economy. Nigeria's President Tinubu is ready to tackle economic challenges by allowing national and subnational governments to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity using local resources. This would improve electricity supply and drive investment in the electricity sector. Subsidies have deprived the economy and petroleum sector of investments, jobs, and revenues.

The Senate Committee on Public Accounts has begun an investigation of N14.7 billion proceeds of privatisation of the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) allegedly hidden in commercial banks by the Bureau of Public Enterprise (BPE). The committee is acting on an audit query in the 'Auditor-General for the Federation's Annual Report on Non-Compliance/Internal Control Weaknesses Issues in Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the Federal Government of Nigeria for the Year Ended 31st December 2019'. The query stated that the funds from the PHCN privatisation were still in the banks as of December 31, 2016, whereas the privatisation had been concluded since 2013. The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) is seeking to recover the sum of N14,720,396,432.43, being proceeds of the PHCN, and remit same to CRF. However, two separate sums of N3,231,984.73 allegedly held in Fidelity Bank Plc and N18,199,520.87 held in Stanbic Bank were unaudited bank balances that were actually no longer in existence as of the date of the audited financial statements or asked questions. The probe is expected to reveal whether the BPE's claims are true or not.

Seven aspirants boycotted the APC primary in Ekiti, alleging fraud and manipulation. They demanded that the process be delayed for some days and that the local government election committee and ward election committee be disbanded and replaced with names that would reinforce internal democracy and uphold the aims and objectives of the party. The seven aspirants include Otunba 'Demola Popoola, Kayode Ojo, Senator Dayo Adeyeye, Oluwatoyin Afolabi Olufemi Bamishile and Bamidele Faparusi. The police in Ekiti State have intercepted an 18-seater bus conveying 12-armed men, suspected to be errand boys for politicians, a few hours to the primary. This comes barely 24-hours after the command announced the arrest of 105 suspected party thugs by soldiers. The seized weapons include four single-barrel guns, one cut-to-size locally-made pistol, seven cartridges and substances suspected to be drugs.

This year's science landscape is set to be shaped by a huge asteroid, Quadrantids, rising temperatures, tropical cyclones, COVID-19 variants of concern, Moon and Mars missions, United Nations push to save biodiversity, earth tremors in North Central and South-West Nigeria, Nigeria's quest to send a manned mission to space, and advances in particle physics. The space rock 7482 (1994 PC1) is a potentially hazardous object that will be close to the earth on January 18, 2022, at 16:51 ET (21:51 GMT). It will have a magnitude of 10 when it gets close, putting it out of reach for the naked eye and most binoculars, but should be visible using a back garden telescope. The Quadrantids, which peak during early-January each year, are considered to be one of the best yearly meteor showers, and are especially known for their bright "fireball" meteors that leave large explosions of light and colour.

Chief Ernest Adegunle Shonekan provided the confluence in which two rivers of Nigerian history met. He was a career technocrat in the giant United African Company (UAC) until 1980, when he combined the two most powerful offices of the company as the Chairman and the Chief Executive. He then became the Head of the Interim National Government (ING) at 57 in 1993, an unprecedented experiment in national politics and statesmanship. His widow, Mrs. Margaret Shonekan, was the equally powerful former head of national office of the West African Examination Council (WAEC). Shonekan's brief incursion into the sanctum of national power dominated discourse about his passage. Shonekan was invited to participate in the Newswatch Communications Ltd's first year anniversary, where he was presented with the Journalist of the Year Award. He then became the Head of Interim Government, overseeing the final lap of the ill-fated transition to civil rule programme. His involvement in politics was supposed to end with the successful handover of power to an elected President.

Chukwuma Charles Soludo, Governor-Elect of Anambra State, has done a world of service to perceptions of south-east Nigeria and traditional ideas of politics in the region. His transition committee (ANSG-TC) has been inaugurated to help him calibrate expectations and project a message of constructive identity-building and harnessing of human capacity. Soludo's implicit message is that the destinies of Nd'Igbo are joined inextricably and the job of rebuilding requires all capable hands on deck. Mario Cuomo famously said of successful runs for office that "you campaign in poetry; you govern in prose". Soludo's campaign was forged in blood and his tenure will be defined by crises that defy the constitutional capacities of any governor in Nigeria. These include insecurity and a crisis of human ecology. Soludo's emergence is a tribute to the iron will of Ndi Anambra, who saw off the best efforts of a malevolent political family to render the state hopelessly ante-diluvian.

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has declared 19 persons wanted for operating illegal crude oil refining sites, responsible for soots prevalent in the state. The governor has also directed the Rivers State Head of Service to query one Mr. Temple Amakiri, a director in the Ministry of Energy, for abetting bunkering activities and hand him over to the police for investigation and possible prosecution. The government has resolved to tackle the soot crisis by destroying and closing down all identified illegal refining sites and activities. Wike urged residents to report illegal crude oil refineries and other activities to task forces set up at the state and local government levels, and reaffirmed the ban on the use of motorcycles in Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt councils. He also warned those operating motorcycles shuttles and hawking foreign exchange to leave or be arrested and prosecuted, and accused traditional leadership of collecting money from vendors and allowing street trading activities.