Author: gqSbgCfmna

Traditional rulers from the South-West, led by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, are set to hold a security meeting with Yoruba nation activist and founder of the Iru Ekun Security Network, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.

The meeting is scheduled to hold in Ijero Ekiti, Ekiti State, on Friday and will be hosted by the Owa Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole.

According to a statement issued by Igboho’s media office, the meeting will focus on security in Yorubaland and measures to sustain peace and communal stability across the South-West.

The statement said monarchs from Oyo, Lagos, Ondo, Osun, Ekiti, Ogun and parts of Kwara states are expected to attend the meeting.

It said the meeting would be presided over by Ogunwusi, who is Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) and Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC).

The stakeholders are expected to discuss ways of strengthening security across the region and improving cooperation between traditional institutions and local security initiatives such as the Iru Ekun Security Network.

The statement said particular attention would be given to protecting rural communities and strengthening the role of traditional rulers in local security, given their proximity to communities and their roles in preventing and resolving conflicts.

The organisers commended the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for their support for the Iru Ekun Security Network.

They also pledged continued cooperation with security stakeholders to sustain peace and safety across the South-West.

The statement specifically commended the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Defence, Gen Christopher Musa (retd.); Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu; Director-General of the DSS, Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi; and heads of other paramilitary agencies for their efforts in combating insecurity and criminality.

Nigerian agritech startups supported by First City Monument Bank are preparing to expand into other African markets as part of a broader push to scale homegrown agricultural technology solutions across the continent.

FCMB noted in its AgriTech Alumni Impact Report that ventures such as AgroCist and Crop2Cash have demonstrated the potential to scale their solutions beyond Nigeria into other African markets.

The report traces the evolution of the bank’s agritech programme from its 2018 launch to what it described as an ‘Impact Era’ focused on commercially viable, investment-ready agricultural businesses.

Crop2Cash emerged as the inaugural winner of the programme with a USSD-based platform designed to improve access to financial tools for unbanked farmers. Since then, the initiative has expanded through collaborations with innovation hubs, development finance institutions and startup enablers.

FCMB said its approach increasingly considers opportunities beyond traditional lending, including the use of weather data, soil information and other digital tools to support better decision-making, manage risk and enhance agricultural productivity.

The bank also highlighted growing interest in climate-conscious agriculture, regenerative farming practices and ecosystem partnerships designed to improve food security and rural livelihoods. Development partners supporting the programme include FMO, the Mastercard Foundation and UNDP.

The report added that the bank intends to continue investing in user-centred agricultural innovation that can scale beyond Nigeria.

A youth-led non-governmental organisation, Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI), launched the SheBuilds AI Fellowship on Thursday, a six-month intensive programme funded by the Government of Canada through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) to train young women in Kaduna State in artificial intelligence, data science, and digital entrepreneurship.

The launch, held at a press conference in Kaduna, also featured the public presentation of the organisation’s new issue brief, titled ‘Bridging the Gender Digital Divide: Artificial Intelligence as a Safe Driver of Economic Growth in Nigeria,’ which warns that the country’s fast-growing digital economy is leaving women behind.

Speaking at the event, the Global Director of BBYDI, Mr Olasupo Abideen Opeyemi, said the fellowship attracted 473 applications, of which 52 candidates were shortlisted for interviews and 20 young women were finally selected as the pioneer cohort. A second cohort of 20 will follow, bringing the total number of direct beneficiaries to 40.

‘This number alone is evidence that demolishes a dangerous myth – the myth that young women in northern Nigeria are not interested in technology. They are interested. What they lack is not ambition; it is access,’ Abideen said.

Citing figures from the organisation’s issue brief, Abideen noted that although the information and communications technology sector contributed 11.31 per cent of Nigeria’s real Gross Domestic Product in the first quarter of 2026, Nigerian women remain 26 per cent less likely than men to use mobile internet – one of the widest gaps in the world – while women hold fewer than one in five technology jobs in the country.

‘Analysts have warned that if this exclusion continues, Nigeria risks a gendered recession – a future in which the sectors driving growth draw on only half the nation’s talent. Nigeria does not face a choice between growth and inclusion. It faces a choice between inclusive growth and diminished growth,’ he said.

The BBYDI boss also raised the alarm over the safety of women online, referencing projections that as many as 70 million Nigerian women and girls could be exposed to AI-facilitated online abuse annually by 2030 if current trends continue. He stressed that ‘digital inclusion that is not safe is not sustainable.’

According to him, the fellows will learn Python programming, data analysis, machine learning, deep learning, and generative AI over six months, before building and pitching working AI solutions to real Nigerian problems in areas such as health, agriculture, education, and governance. He added that the curriculum was rigorously validated by AI practitioners and industry experts.

Beyond technical training, Abideen said the programme includes leadership development, communication skills, personal branding, CV writing, mental health support, excursions to technology hubs, and a rotating ‘Class Governor’ system designed to give every fellow hands-on leadership experience.

He further disclosed that after graduation, the organisation and its partners would connect the fellows to internships, jobs, and remote work opportunities within and outside Nigeria, sponsor their attendance at technology conferences and hackathons, and link them to national and international programmes for which their new skills qualify them.

In the issue brief, the organisation called on the Federal Government and the Kaduna State Government to embed clear gender targets, budgets, and sex-disaggregated reporting in the implementation of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme; urged the National Assembly to strengthen laws against technology-facilitated gender-based violence; and challenged technology companies to audit their algorithms for gender bias and set measurable targets for hiring women.

The organisation also appealed to parents, community leaders, and religious leaders to support the digital participation of their daughters, declaring that ‘every girl kept offline is a national asset kept idle.’

Abideen expressed gratitude to the Government of Canada and the High Commission of Canada in Nigeria for funding the project, and gave special appreciation to the Yandytech Community and other technology stakeholders for their support to the initiative and to the technology ecosystem in northern Nigeria.

Highlights of the event included the unveiling of the 20 selected fellows, goodwill messages from government representatives and stakeholders, remarks by the fellows, and a question-and-answer session with journalists. The fellows had earlier participated in an orientation programme on Monday, where they met their facilitators and mentors ahead of the commencement of classes.

The full issue brief, the organisation said, has been published on its website.

French Ligue 1 club Nice have reached an agreement with Hamburg over the transfer of Super Eagles striker Terem Moffi, according to Nice-Matin.

Nice have accepted an offer from the German club for the 27-year-old Nigerian striker, although the value of the deal has not been disclosed.

Moffi must now agree personal terms with Hamburg before the transfer can be completed.

Hamburg have been monitoring the striker for several weeks and are now close to securing his services.

Nice were keen to reduce their wage bill and create room to pursue another striker, Elye Wahi, who remains a priority target for the French club.

Nice had initially hoped to secure a higher transfer fee for Moffi, close to the pound 8 million purchase option negotiated with FC Porto when the Nigerian spent six months on loan at the Portuguese club last season.

However, the French club has now accepted a lower offer.

Moffi has impressed Nice’s new coach, Olivier Pantaloni, and his staff during pre-season after returning from his loan spell. He has trained consistently since the beginning of the summer.

The striker’s contract with Nice runs until 2027, but he now appears set to continue his career in Germany if personal terms with Hamburg are successfully concluded.

For a team accustomed to winning, failure can be more instructive than victory.

The Super Falcons arrived at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco searching for redemption after years of near misses, administrative turbulence, and questions about their dominance in African women’s football. Justine Madugu, appointed permanently after taking charge on an interim basis in September 2024, delivered the answer Nigerians wanted.

Nigeria captured a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, recovering from two goals down to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final. Madugu went from a sceptic’s choice to one of the most celebrated indigenous coaches in Nigerian football history.

A year later, he was gone.

Failure at the 2026 WAFCON, followed by a loss to South Africa in the World Cup qualification playoff, ended Madugu’s tenure. The NFF dismissed the entire technical crew after the Falcons failed to reach the continental semi-finals for the first time, consequently missing out on the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

That turnaround is startling, but it raises a critical question: What exactly does Nigeria want from its next head coach?

Addressing Nigeria’s structural rot

The temptation after a tournament collapse is to place everything on the manager. Nigeria has done this repeatedly: appoint a coach, watch expectations soar, suffer a setback, fire the staff, and reset the cycle.

However, the Super Falcons face systemic issues that extend far beyond the technical area. Past tenures-notably Randy Waldrum’s-were marred by public disputes over contracts, unpaid wages, and poor preparation schedules. Furthermore, an elite manager cannot succeed in a vacuum. The NFF must provide video analysis, modern sports science, dedicated scouting, and adequate preparation windows.

The next coach must be judged on football, but the federation must be judged on the environment it creates.

Nigeria no longer needs a motivator whose primary pitch is understanding the local ethos. African women’s football has evolved dramatically, as demonstrated in 2026 when Cameroon won the title under Valentine Nguele after knocking out Nigeria, Malawi made a shock run to the final to secure their first-ever World Cup berth, and Algeria achieved a historic third-place finish.

Physical dominance and historical pedigree are no longer enough. The next manager must possess a defined tactical identity-capable of mid-game system changes, structured set-piece routines, and midfield control. Furthermore, team selection must be ruthless: based strictly on current form, physical condition, and tactical fit rather than reputation or origin.

Evaluating the domestic candidates

If the NFF looks within Nigeria’s borders, five distinct profiles emerge.

*Christopher Danjuma boasts deep institutional knowledge from his time with the Falconets and Nasarawa Amazons, whom he led to the 2026 President Federation Cup. However, his previous senior stint ended after a disappointing 2015 World Cup run.

*Moses Aduku is a proven winner who secured the 2026 NWFL Premiership title with Edo Queens and took them to the CAF Women’s Champions League. His current role with the Falconets makes him ideally positioned to bridge the youth-to-senior transition.

*Edwin Okon offers extensive senior-level experience from his Rivers Angels and previous Super Falcons tenures, but the NFF must weigh modern tactical fitness against nostalgia.

*Whyte Ogbonda is available after leaving Bayelsa Queens in July 2026. While skilled at club level, managing a national team with European-based stars presents a starkly different challenge.

*Wemimo Matthew represents the most intriguing development candidate. Highly qualified within CAF coaching programs, her appointment would align with FIFA’s 2026 mandate requiring female representation on technical benches while creating a genuine pathway for female coaches in Nigeria.

The foreign connection

Looking abroad brings another set of complex decisions. Former managers Randy Waldrum and Thomas Dennerby both bring familiarity and previous success. Yet, rehiring Waldrum risks reigniting past administrative feuds, while Dennerby’s methods must be evaluated against how rapidly the modern game has accelerated since 2019.

On the global stage, figureheads like Pia Sundhage, Bev Priestman, Desiree Ellis, Nora Häuptle, and Jorge Vilda represent the elite standard. However, contract statuses and practicalities make most unrealistic, and Nigeria must avoid chasing high-profile names simply for prestige.

The ideal Super Falcons coach must meet several key criteria to succeed. First, they need a defined tactical identity that establishes a structured possession and defensive framework. Second, they must understand African football nuance to navigate the unique logistical and physical demands of the continent.

Third, they need a clear youth integration strategy to phase out aging legends and bring in new talent, combined with total selection independence to pick squads without administrative interference. Finally, the role demands modern analytical skills, strong man-management to unite overseas stars with domestic talent, and a long-term vision built toward the 2028 Olympics and the 2029 WAFCON cycle.

The NFF must abandon behind-the-scenes appointments. Instead, it should form an independent technical panel to interview candidates against a clear blueprint. Applicants should present concrete plans for set-piece design, domestic player integration, defensive structure, and camp scheduling.

The ultimate takeaway from Justine Madugu’s tenure is that a coach can be capable of winning a trophy, yet remain ill-equipped to drive a long-term project. Winning the 2025 WAFCON was a triumph, but the collapse that followed exposed a lack of continuity.

Nigeria does not just need a new manager to win the next match-it needs a technical architect to build the future of the Super Falcons.

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank expert, Dr. Ifediora Amobi, has urged the Federal Government to sustain its economic reforms while implementing measures that will provide relief to Nigerians and stimulate economic activity.

Amobi, a renowned economist and political economy expert, spoke while commending the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, for providing Nigerians with greater clarity on the gains and challenges of the Federal Government’s economic reforms.

He said Oyedele’s recent presentation of the government’s reform scorecard offered ‘hope, clarity and encouragement’ to Nigerians, particularly by providing details of the financial implications of some of the administration’s major economic decisions.

Oyedele disclosed that N15.8 trillion was paid into the Federation Account between June 2023 and December 2025 as proceeds of petrol subsidy removal.

Of the amount, he said the Federal Government received N5.4 trillion, while the 36 states and 774 local governments received N10.4 trillion.

The minister also disclosed that the Federal Government borrowed N11.9 trillion between June 2023 and December 2025, stressing that the borrowing requirement would have been significantly higher without the fiscal space created by the economic reforms.

Amobi said the disclosure was important because it enabled Nigerians to better understand the relationship between subsidy removal, government revenue, borrowing and fiscal management.

He noted that the reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly the removal of petrol subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market, had significantly altered the structure of the Nigerian economy.

According to him, while the measures were necessary to strengthen public finances, attract investment and place the economy on a more sustainable footing, they had also imposed significant pressure on households and businesses through higher energy costs, inflation and increased operating expenses.

He therefore urged the government to sustain the reforms while accelerating measures capable of cushioning their impact on Nigerians and businesses.

Amobi also commended Oyedele’s role in the Federal Government’s tax reform programme, saying the initiative had helped increase revenue, seal loopholes and strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal position.

He said the reforms would be more meaningful if increased government revenues translated into improved infrastructure, social services, job creation and a more competitive business environment.

Amobi urged the Finance Minister to focus on long-term revenue growth, plugging fiscal leakages and creating incentives for private-sector investment, while pursuing measures that would stimulate production and reduce the cost of doing business.

He said: ‘The reforms were necessary to reposition the Nigerian economy, but the immediate impact on households and businesses cannot be ignored. What is important now is to sustain the reforms while implementing measures that will provide relief and stimulate economic activity.’

The economist also commended President Tinubu for appointing Oyedele, describing the decision as evidence of the President’s ability to identify and deploy professionals with the expertise required to manage complex economic challenges.

Amobi, a former Howard University professor of economics and adviser during the administration of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, is known for his interventions on national television and public discourse on political economy, governance and strategies for improving Nigeria’s economic fortunes.

Geregu Power Plc has announced the full settlement of its outstanding bond obligations, as the company’s Chairman, Senator Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari, assuring investors and other stakeholders of the board’s commitment to meeting its financial obligations.

He described the development as an important step towards strengthening investor confidence and preserving shareholder value.

Speaking on the settlement, Yari said the board remained committed to meeting the company’s obligations to bondholders and trustees.

‘Our Board is fully committed to meeting Geregu’s financial obligations to its bondholders and trustees. I am pleased to confirm that payment has just been effected in line with our obligations,’ he said.

Yari assured bondholders and shareholders that the board would continue to take necessary measures to protect their interests while maintaining high standards of corporate governance.

The company also disclosed that it was working with relevant parties to resolve legacy administrative matters that predated the current board.

It said the issues would not affect its capacity to meet its bond obligations.

The Geregu chairman further reaffirmed the board’s support for the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly efforts to transform the power sector.

He said the company would continue to contribute to Nigeria’s power sector through reliable power generation.

Geregu Power said it would provide formal confirmation of the settlement upon completion of the payment process and continue to keep bondholders, trustees and other stakeholders informed of material developments.

The company added that it remained focused on sustainable and efficient power generation as part of its contribution to Nigeria’s economic growth and development.

George Ilenikhena has opened his goal scoring account in Saudi Arabia in impressive fashion, but the young Nigerian striker could still leave Al-Ittihad before the end of the transfer window.

Ilenikhena scored twice as Al-Ittihad defeated Al Najma 3-0 in a King’s Cup tie, finding the net in the 16th and 39th minutes.

The 20-year-old striker joined Al-Ittihad from AS Monaco in February 2026 for a reported pound 30 million plus pound 3 million in bonuses.

Despite his recent brace, Ilenikhena is reportedly interested in returning to Europe, with several clubs showing interest in signing him.

Bologna submitted a loan proposal with a pound 22 million option to buy, but Al-Ittihad immediately rejected the offer.

Turkish club Trabzonspor also made a loan proposal containing a pound 15 million purchase option, which was similarly rejected.

Al-Ittihad are open to selling the striker but reportedly want around pound 20 million.

Spanish side Sevilla have also made an oral offer of pound 10 million, with a further pound 3 million in bonuses and a significant sell-on percentage.

Ilenikhena, who has chosen to represent Nigeria at senior international level after previously playing for France’s age-grade teams, initially struggled after joining the Saudi club.

His two-goal performance has, however, provided a timely reminder of his goal scoring ability as the transfer speculation surrounding his future continues.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) standard-bearer in the June 20 Ekiti State governorship election, Dr Wole Oluyede, has declared support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in the 2027 general election.

He made his position known yesterday when he visited Governor Biodun Oyebanji at the Government House in Ado-Ekiti.

Oluyede informed the governor of his decision to work for Tinubu’s victory in the January 2027 presidential election.

He also discussed with Governor Oyebanji issues relating to the development and progress of Ekiti State, as the governor prepares to begin his second term on October 16.

Receiving Oluyede, Governor Oyebanji praised him for an act of statesmanship and his commitment to the progress of Ekiti State and national development.

Oyebanji expressed appreciation for Oluyede’s decision to support President Tinubu, saying his gesture demonstrated a shared commitment to the development of Ekiti and Nigeria.