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Sir: With over 520 different languages, Nigeria holds the third-highest number of spoken languages in the world. Four of these – Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and Ijaw – are spoken by about 78 percent of the country’s population. Yet despite this richness, most Nigerian languages remain absent from the tools shaping the lives of Generation Z and Generation Alpha, the generations who embody the future of today.

UNESCO warns that about 40 percent of the world’s 7,000 languages are at risk of extinction by 2025, with African and indigenous tongues disproportionately vulnerable. Over a hundred Nigerian languages are already considered endangered or close to extinction.

Technology illustrates the urgency. In Natural Language Processing (NLP), which powers translation apps, voice assistants, and speech recognition, Nigerian languages are classified as low-resource. This means there is not enough digital text or audio for artificial intelligence systems to learn from. Without action, entire languages risk being digitally invisible.

The Nigerian government has no structured plan to preserve or expand indigenous languages, especially in technology and research. Most languages lack basic resources such as text datasets, essential for NLP. Minority languages like Ibibio, Ijaw, and Kanuri, spoken by fewer than 10 million people each, have little or no digital representation. Even the so-called big three languages (Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba) struggle with limited and poor-quality resources.

Apps exist for Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo, but hundreds of Nigerian languages remain excluded. Global technology firms are making tentative steps. In late 2024, Google expanded voice input and dictation support to Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba across Gboard, Voice Search, and Translate. Microsoft added the trio to Azure Translator earlier. Yet the depth and scale of resources for these languages remain far behind those of English, Chinese, or even Swahili.

The Nigerian constitution has never been officially translated into local languages, aside from one private Yoruba effort. Government websites remain exclusively in English. Community-driven projects like Masakhane and NaijaVoices are working to build datasets, but the scale of their efforts is minuscule compared to the need. If Nigerian languages are missing from keyboards, spell checkers, translation tools, and voice assistants, they will fade into silence.

What Nigeria needs is a deliberate digital language strategy. Such a strategy must go beyond the major three and extend to endangered and minority tongues. Crucially, it should position languages as infrastructure, gateways through which citizens access healthcare, education, commerce, and culture.

Policymakers must prioritize indigenous languages in technology and education. Researchers and entrepreneurs must collaborate to build open resources. Global technology firms must be challenged to support more Nigerian languages. And citizens must demand a future where their mother tongues are not just spoken but coded into the fabric of modern life.

Sync Capital and Advisory Ltd has secured a Finance Company Licence from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The Company will operate as Sync Finance Company Limited.

This regulatory milestone authorizes Sync Finance to operate as a licensed non-bank finance company, focused on bridging funding gaps for underserved MSMEs with a view to stimulate diverse sectors of the economy.

Positioned at the intersection of finance and technology, Sync Finance is poised to deliver an inclusive financial services ecosystem that supports Nigeria’s development goals through the empowerment of viable entrepreneurs leading small businesses, stimulating employment, and accelerating GDP growth.

Speaking on the development, the Chief Executive Officer, Sync Finance Company Limited, Mr. Ikenna Imo was pleased with this milestone and emphasized the need for responsive and innovative financing solutions as an integral ingredient to stimulate economic growth. ‘Our mission is to be the financial institution of choice for budding/established Entrepreneurs and MSMEs in the markets where we operate. He further confirmed the Company’s resolve to leverage data-driven credit assessments, accessible and expedient loan considerations, and embedded investment digital tools, which aim to unlock capital for the everyday Nigerian entrepreneur and business.’

In addition to deploying accessible credit, Sync Finance will also provide tiered investment products, providing both individual and institutional investors the opportunity to access rewarding and secure investments delivered conveniently through digital channels.

Commenting further on the Company’s strategic direction, Non-Executive Director, Mr. Uhabia Ojike noted: ‘Sync Finance is uniquely positioned to fund the real sector, especially in key areas like retail trade, and local value chains. With the backing of an experienced Board and a robust governance framework, we are building a financially sound and impact-driven institution that reflects the aspirations of the Nigerian economy.’

Sync Finance’s leadership comprises professionals with decades of experience in commercial banking, structured finance, credit risk, professional services, oil and gas and financial technology, ensuring strong governance oversight and execution discipline.

Big Brother Naija reality star Phyna has expressed outrage and grief over her sister Ruth’s tragic death, which she claims was calculated and planned.

In a series of emotional posts on Instagram, Phyna accused Dangote Group, a billionaire businessman’s company, of being insensitive and irresponsible in their handling of her sister’s burial expenses.

‘Also on Sept 13th, the day of burial, Dangote groups did not pick up all calls made to them from us, as we were told the bills were not paid, but they claim it was, the mortuary was also covered by the family,’ she said.

According to Phyna, Dangote Group covered only her sister’s bills at Lagoon Hospital, while the family paid other bills from Auchi to Irrua without reimbursement.

‘The bills from Auchi down to Irrua were covered by the family; no refund has been made.

‘In the time of all the troubles, @dangotegroup said to the public that they’ve paid all hospital bills. The only bill Dangote covered was Lagoon Hospital,’ she said..

She also claimed that the company did not pick up calls on the day of the burial, despite claiming to have paid all hospital bills.

Phyna shared a letter sent to her father by Dangote Group, asking him to acknowledge receipt of funds for burial expenses.

She accused the company of impersonating her father by writing the letter themselves and sending it to him to sign.

According to her, she finds the action particularly hurtful, questioning why the company couldn’t have asked the family for an acknowledgement letter instead of drafting one themselves.

She said: ‘This letter that was sent to my dad this evening is really paining me, like @dangotegroup you killed my sister, do massive PR, una give the girl papa money for burial, una con still by una self write acknowledgement letter impersonating my father and you sent to him to sign, so that una plan of after burial nothing else go stand because by then the man go don sign this letter.

‘@dangotegroup, if you needed an acknowledgement letter or receipt for the funds you sent for the burial, you would have kindly asked for the acknowledgement letter from the family, and then we would have provided it. Why typing as my dad? And sending it to him to sign.

‘This should never happen again. If you need something, you ask, as you have always done, because since you can type the letter for us, that means a lot of papers you were asking for while the girl was alive, you would have been able to type it then. Right now, it seems everything was well calculated’.

As the world marked World Tourism Day 2025 last Saturday, the United Nations and key tourism stakeholders across Nigeria have called for a renewed commitment to make tourism a tool for sustainable transformation. The global celebration, held in Melaka, Malaysia, centred on the theme Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.

The UN Tourism Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, urged nations and operators to reflect deeply on how tourism impacts societies and the planet. According to him, the sector’s future lies not only in visitor numbers but in how its growth contributes to people’s empowerment, cultural preservation, and environmental protection.

‘We must look beyond numbers and reflect on how our sector impacts societies and our planet,’ Pololikashvili said. ‘Sustainable transformation through tourism is only possible if we embrace new ideas and listen to new voices. That means reshaping business practices, investing in the right values, and focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship. It also means investing in education, jobs, and the training of young talents.’

He noted that World Tourism Day in Melaka has once again demonstrated that tourism can serve as a force for good when guided by sustainability and inclusivity. ‘By working together, we can transform tourism into a tool for empowerment, cultural preservation, and environmental protection,’ he added.

In a similar message, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres described tourism as ‘a powerful driver of transformation,’ noting that it builds bridges across cultures and fuels development. He, however, cautioned that its expansion must be managed responsibly to safeguard the very communities it celebrates.

‘Tourism creates jobs, fuels local economies, and strengthens bonds between people and places,’ Guterres said. ‘It builds bridges across cultures, preserves traditions, and restores cultural heritage. Yet tourism can also damage the very places it celebrates. As the world faces climate breakdown and rising inequalities, we need bold, sustainable action that puts people and the planet first.’

He urged countries to harness tourism as a force for resilience, sustainability, and shared progress.

Across the world, governments, operators, and civil society groups marked the day with events promoting inclusive tourism and sustainable development. In Nigeria, activities were held across several cities, including Lagos, Abuja, and Enugu, with the private sector playing a key role in mobilising awareness.

In Lagos, the State Government, through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, partnered the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) and other private operators to commemorate the day at Tarkwa Bay. The event brought together professionals, destination managers, and cultural promoters to discuss the future of sustainable tourism in the country.

Speaking on the significance of the celebration, Mr. Uche Wilson Ugwu, Vice President (South East) of FTAN, said the theme aligns with Nigeria’s need to reposition tourism as a development tool. He explained that true transformation begins when the industry is built on sustainability, cultural identity, and local participation.

‘Beyond celebrating the day, stakeholders must commit to practical actions that will make the South East a model for responsible tourism,’ Ugwu said. ‘Infrastructure development, security, and access roads remain critical to unlocking our region’s full potential. Without good roads and reliable utilities, even our best attractions remain hidden.’

He stressed the importance of capacity building and innovation, calling for continuous training of youth entrepreneurs and tour operators.

Ugwu maintained that sustainability depends on knowledge-sharing and the integration of modern technology into tourism promotion.

‘The South East must tell its story differently,’ he added. ‘We have history, cuisine, and craftsmanship that can compete globally. But this requires unity of purpose. Every operator, artisan, and policymaker must see themselves as part of the transformation process.’

Also speaking, Mr. Awomoyi Ayodeji, Principal Executive of Flyzone Tourism, said tourism remains a strategic tool for fostering peace, mutual understanding, and economic development among nations. According to him, sustainable transformation cannot be achieved without deliberate collaboration between governments, local communities, and the private sector.

‘Tourism contributes significantly to peace and development when it promotes cultural exchange, supports local economies, and encourages global citizenship,’ Awomoyi said. He identified inadequate infrastructure, insecurity, inconsistent government policies, and poor funding as some of the biggest challenges facing tourism in Nigeria.

Awomoyi stressed that capacity development and partnership are key. ‘Governments, private sector, and communities must work together to build skills, improve access, and foster partnerships. Only then can tourism reach its full potential as a tool for inclusion and sustainable change,’ he noted.

The Tinubu Grassroots Movement has commenced sensitisation of Lagosians on the policies and achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

At a community engagement held at Lagos Mainland Local Government and Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA), the group said that the exercises were not a political campaign but an effort to bridge the communication gap between government and citizens.

The Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri Local Community Development Association (LCDA), Princess Samiat Bada, who spoke at the event, said that many residents are unaware of interventions of the current administration at both the federal and state levels to ease the pains associated with the economic reform of the Tinubu’s administration.

‘We do not want past mistakes to repeat themselves. The recurring complaints of hardship among Nigerians are being addressed, with prices of goods in the market already showing signs of reduction. Marketers are encouraged to maintain fairness and consideration in pricing’, she said.

The council boss highlighted several initiatives under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, ranging from distribution of food palliatives, interest free NELFUND (Nigerian Education Loan Fund) loan, financial support for farmers, and upgraded vocational training with monthly stipend amongst others.

‘This government has been distributing food palliatives. NELFUND has been introduced to assist students whose parents are unable to afford university fees. Farmers now have access to financial assistance through designated schemes and Young people under 40 who prefer vocational skills training over formal education can enroll in government-approved programmes and receive stipends of N45,000 monthly’, she said.

The group also commended improvements in national security, noting a decline in cases of kidnapping and insurgency.

Princess Bada appreciated the community members for their participation. She lauded Yaba LCDA Chairman Emilagba Jubril’s role in coordinating the distribution of palliatives, which she said had reached several communities within Lagos Mainland.

‘We are grateful for the turnout and for the continued commitment of the leadership in ensuring that residents benefit from government interventions,’ she said.

The Special Adviser to the President on Agriculture, Abiodun Yinusa, assured farmers of increased access to loans and resources via the Bank of Agriculture.

‘Everything we are doing is aimed at ensuring farmers at the grassroots are reached directly. This is why a second term is crucial, as Nigeria still requires the President’s leadership to fully actualise the Renewed Hope agenda,’ Yinusa concluded.

At Itire-Ikate LCDA, the council chairman, Oluwafemi Daniel, hailed President Tinubu as ‘a man of the people’ whose policies have instigated visible changes nationwide.

Nigeria is at the crossroads as it marks its 65th independence anniversary – a nation weighed down by poverty, insecurity, and corruption, yet lifted by the promise of youthful innovation, cultural influence, and reforms that seek to break old patterns. From the oil fields of the Niger Delta to the buzzing tech hubs of Lagos, the country faces a defining question: can its bright spots finally outshine the shadows?

Beyond oil

For decades, oil has been Nigeria’s lifeline – and its curse. Since the 1970s, crude oil has contributed as much as 90 per cent of export revenues and over half of government income. But global shifts in energy and Nigeria’s own dwindling production have exposed the fragility of this model.

Today, cracks in oil dependency are widening. Entertainment, financial technology, telecommunications, and agriculture are emerging as strong contenders in Nigeria’s economic story. Agriculture contributes roughly 25 per cent of GDP, while services – powered by fintech and telecoms – now account for nearly 50 per cent. Lagos has become one of Africa’s busiest financial hubs, home to banks, startups, and investors chasing the next big thing.

Former Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, now head of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), once remarked: ‘Oil can no longer carry this nation. What gives me hope is the innovation I see among young Nigerians building billion-dollar businesses in technology, entertainment, and agribusiness.’

One such innovator is Femi Adeyemi, founder of a growing agritech company in Ibadan. ‘We’re using mobile platforms to link farmers directly to markets. It reduces waste and gives farmers more profit,’ he explains. ‘These are things oil wealth never solved.’

Yet reforms are painful. President Bola Tinubu’s removal of fuel subsidies in 2023 sparked protests as transport and food prices soared. The government defends the policy, arguing that it frees billions for infrastructure and social spending. Tax reforms, too, promise a broader revenue base – but small business owners worry about excessive burdens.

‘I sell provisions in Surulere, Lagos,’ says 38-year-old shopkeeper Mariam. ‘Every policy feels like it costs us more. If the government wants to diversify, they should support us, not just collect from us.’

The road to diversification is rocky, but without it, Nigeria cannot sustain its people. And diversification demands more than ideas; it requires the physical backbone of progress: roads, railways, and power.

Building roads, bridges, and trust

Nigeria, with over 200 million people, has an enormous demand for infrastructure. For decades, potholed roads, collapsing bridges, and erratic power supply have strangled growth. However, there have been some noticeable changes in recent years.

The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, once notorious for traffic jams and accidents, has undergone significant upgrades. The long-awaited Second Niger Bridge now links the Southeast more effectively, easing bottlenecks. Abuja-Kaduna’s rail line has cut travel time and boosted trade, despite security concerns.

Minister of Works David Umahi insists: ‘We are not where we want to be, but projects like the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and the Second Niger Bridge are proof that Nigeria is moving forward. Our target is to connect communities and unlock trade.’

However, not everyone is convinced. Civil society leader Aisha Yusuf warns: ‘Infrastructure must serve the people, not just political interests. Transparency is non-negotiable. Projects must be completed, not abandoned after ribbon-cuttings.’

Onitsha-based trader Chukwudi Okeke testifies to the benefits: ‘With the new bridge, it takes me less time to get goods across. Before, we could spend a whole day in traffic. Now, at least, there is some relief.’

Such stories suggest progress, but infrastructure is only part of the puzzle. For a nation so young in demographic terms – with over 60 per cent under 25 – the real engine of transformation lies in its restless youth.

Young, bold and wired

Nigeria is one of the youngest countries in the world, with a median age of just 18. Its youth are inventive and increasingly digital. In Lagos’ Yaba district – dubbed ‘Yabacon Valley’ – co-working spaces buzz with coders, app developers, and entrepreneurs hoping to disrupt everything from banking to education.

Nigeria is at the vanguard of Africa’s tech revolution, thanks to the hundreds of millions of dollars that startups like Flutterwave, Paystack, and Andela have secured over the past few decades. In 2022 alone, Nigerian startups raised over $1.2 billion in venture capital, nearly one-third of Africa’s total.

‘Every day, Nigerian innovators prove that with the right environment, we can lead the continent in digital transformation,’ says Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, co-founder of Andela and Flutterwave. ‘The challenge is government policy – it must nurture, not suffocate, innovation.’

Tinubu has pledged to expand broadband access to rural areas, lower regulatory hurdles for startups, and invest in digital skills. If realised, these promises could supercharge the youth-driven economy.

But beneath the energy of tech hubs, frustration simmers. University student Chika Odili explains: ‘We’re creative, we’re connected, but unemployment is still killing us. Everyone wants to start a business, but not everyone gets funding. Government must do more to create jobs.’

Although Nigeria has a bright digital future, a population this size cannot be fed by technology alone. To cut imports and feed its people, the country must return to its roots: agriculture.

Agriculture: the unfinished revolution

Nigeria’s fertile lands once earned it the title of ‘the breadbasket of Africa’. In the 1960s, groundnut pyramids stood proudly in Kano, cocoa farms in the Southwest fed Europe, and palm oil exports thrived in the Southeast. However, the oil boom led to the neglect of agriculture, leaving the country dependent on food imports.

Recent reforms have sparked a partial revival. Rice production has grown, with large-scale farms in Kebbi, Ebonyi, and Benue boosting local supply. Cassava and maize output have also risen, supported by improved seeds and better access to credit.

‘Food security is national security,’ says Kebbi farmer Musa Garba. ‘We are seeing better access to loans, but insecurity threatens everything. Bandits attack farms; people are afraid to plant.’

Indeed, insecurity in rural areas is the greatest obstacle. Floods and desertification, caused by climate change, exacerbate the issue by reducing yields. Post-harvest losses – as high as 40 per cent in some crops – remain another barrier.

While commissioning 2,000 tractors in June, the Tinubu administration declared that Nigeria’s agricultural renaissance had begun. If successful, Nigeria could drastically reduce its $10 billion annual food import bill. But success is far from guaranteed.

Agriculture may feed the body, but culture feeds the soul. And in that arena, Nigeria is already a global powerhouse.

Nollywood, Afrobeats and soft power

Step into a club in London or New York, and chances are an Afrobeats track will be pulsing through the speakers. Nigerian stars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tems have conquered global charts, selling out stadiums and redefining Africa’s sound.

At home, Nollywood continues to produce thousands of films annually, ranking as the world’s second-largest film industry by volume. Streaming platforms showcase Nigerian productions to global audiences, while local cinemas brim with homegrown blockbusters.

Fashion, too, has found its stage: designers like Lisa Folawiyo and Kenneth Ize have graced runways in Paris and Milan, bringing vibrant Ankara prints to the world.

‘The creative industry is Nigeria’s soft power,’ says entertainment lawyer Adebayo Oke. ‘It creates jobs and reshapes how the world sees us. Our music, movies, and fashion give Nigeria a global identity beyond oil and politics.’

Government promises include creative hubs, grants, and stronger intellectual property protection. If sustained, these could nurture growth, which already contributes about three per cent of GDP and employs millions.

But creativity, like commerce, thrives best in a stable democracy. And Nigeria’s democratic journey, though imperfect, has endured longer than ever before.

Democracy: imperfect but alive

In 1999, Nigeria returned to civilian rule after decades of military dictatorship. Since then, it has sustained 26 years of continuous democracy – its longest stretch ever. That achievement is notable in a region where coups have resurfaced in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

‘We cannot dismiss the democratic progress we have made,’ says former INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega. ‘Our elections are not perfect, but our institutions are stronger than before. Strengthening them further is the key to resisting elite capture.’

Elections remain contested, with allegations of fraud and violence common. Yet citizens are increasingly vigilant. Civil society groups monitor polls, courts arbitrate disputes, and the media shines light on abuses.

Tinubu has pledged to digitalise public services, streamline ministries, and push judicial reforms. Sceptics remain wary, recalling past governments that made similar promises.

Civil activist Hauwa Ibrahim insists: ‘Democracy is not just about voting; it is about accountability every day. Leaders must match the resilience of the people with genuine service.’

For democracy to flourish, however, citizens must feel safe – and that remains Nigeria’s greatest struggle.

The security question

Insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings leave deep scars. Boko Haram, though weaker than at its peak in the 2010s, continues to carry out sporadic attacks in the Northeast. In the Northwest, armed bandits terrorise villages, kidnapping schoolchildren and farmers for ransom. Across the country, insecurity shapes daily life.

‘Boko Haram is weaker today than a decade ago,’ insists Defence Chief General Christopher Musa. ‘But we must tackle root causes: poverty, unemployment, poor governance.’

In Zamfara, mother of three, Halima, shares a different perspective: ‘I cannot farm anymore. Every season, bandits come. We live in fear. How can we think of democracy or the economy when we are not safe?’

Security challenges extend beyond Nigeria’s borders. As West Africa’s largest military, Nigeria plays a leading role in ECOWAS peacekeeping, mediating crises in the sub-region. Yet critics say domestic instability undermines its ability to project power abroad.

The contradiction is stark: a country with immense regional influence, but whose citizens remain vulnerable at home. And yet, through it all, ordinary Nigerians refuse to give up.

Citizens speak

The voices of ordinary Nigerians capture the nation’s mood – a blend of fatigue and defiance, hardship and hope.

Chika Odili, the student from Enugu, says: ‘We are tired of promises, but I believe this generation can change Nigeria. Technology gives us the power to demand better governance.’

In Kano, teacher Abdulrazaq Musa laments rising costs: ‘My salary has not changed, but food prices have tripled. People are struggling. Government must know survival is not prosperity.’

From Lagos, artisan Funmi Adebanjo adds: ‘Every day we hustle, and every day is tough. But Nigerians are survivors. No matter what, we don’t give up.’

Senator Shehu Sani, who represented Kaduna Central in the National Assembly, captures the spirit: ‘The spirit of Nigeria is unbreakable. We stumble, but we do not fall. The task is for leaders to match the resilience of the people.’

Looking forward

At 65, Nigeria stands at a crossroads. Poverty, insecurity, and corruption persist like stubborn ailments. But diversification, innovation, agriculture, creativity, and democratic endurance are glimmers of progress amid the shadows.

Nigeria at 65 is like an elder scarred by wars, weathered by storms, yet still upright, still restless, still hopeful. The future remains uncertain, but the will to fight for it remains alive.

Reforms must go beyond lofty policies – they demand transparency, consistency, and citizen engagement. Without these, gains will evaporate like morning dew.

As Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka once warned: ‘The man dies in all who keep silent in the face of tyranny.’ Silence, at 65, is no longer an option. Nigerians are speaking louder than ever – for accountability, for justice, for dignity.

The nation’s story is still being written. Whether the next chapters record progress or regression depends not just on leaders but on the people’s refusal to give up. After 65 years of turbulence, Nigeria remains restless, resilient, and unbowed. The task is clear: to turn endurance into triumph, and promise into fulfilment.

Sir: The Trade Disputes Act (TDA) sets out exactly what must happen before workers in essential services may lawfully cease work. In particular, Section 18 demands that parties must seek to resolve disputes through negotiation, mediation, and arbitration before any strike or stoppage. Strikes – or the shutting of valves – in essential sectors must follow that strict path. Then, Section 41 of the TDA mandates that any worker in essential service who stops work must give fifteen days’ notice to employer and government, unless they can prove they were unaware that closing operations would substantially deprive the community of an essential service. (TDA Section 41(1)).

These rules exist for good reason: a refinery is not like a picket line in hospitality. Its operations connect to national supply chains, foreign exchange balances, fuel distribution, and ultimately, the stability of the naira. When PENGASSAN ordered the halt of crude and gas supply to Dangote – without any public record that the 15-day notice was given or that all mediation/arbitration steps were exhausted – it risked acting as a rogue actor above the law.

Indeed, recent court injunctions restraining union leaders from blocking supplies suggest that the judiciary already finds merit in the claim that PENGASSAN’s actions skirt legal boundaries. Yet in public statements, union leaders justify the shutdowns as necessary pushback against alleged mass dismissals of unionised workers and what they see as a betrayal of promise. On their side, Dangote management insists it must preserve operational integrity, guard against sabotage, and protect shareholder capital in the midst of global margins and foreign exchange volatility.

Both sides carry legitimate concerns. Workers deserve fair treatment and enforcement of union rights; investors demand certainty and rule of law. But in this conflict, PENGASSAN’s approach is legally untenable. The law does not permit unilateral shutdowns in essential services while alternative dispute resolution is ongoing, and while notice obligations remain unmet.

More than that, this refinery is not just a factory: it is Nigeria’s industrial reputation on the line. We must force ourselves to see it as a shared national asset. For years, the country has imported refined petroleum despite exporting crude – bleeding forex for lack of domestic refining capacity. Dangote built one of the most ambitious refineries on the continent precisely to reverse that paradox. If this refinery fails now, the message will be chilling: even when we build, we cannot protect.

Yes, the union is powerful. Yes, the grievances may be real. But rule of law is higher. If the law means nothing, then industrial peace means nothing. If unions may break the rules when pressured, management might act with impunity when threatened, and governance systems unravel.

We cannot accept a system where a union, by decree, shuts down oil production without due process. That is tantamount to running a nation hostage. The president, as commander-in-chief and guardian of stability, must intervene decisively. He must compel all parties to resume fair process and stop any action that threatens national supply or economic order. He must declare that no actor, whether corporate or union, is above legal obligation.

Nigeria owes itself (and Africa) a demonstration that we can build and manage projects of scale in a lawful, disciplined way. Dangote Refinery represents one of our clearest chances. It is too valuable to collapse under dispute tactics. The refinery must not die because we treat laws as optional.

We must demand: follow the protocol. Respect workers. Protect infrastructure. Build trust and enforce accountability. Only then will Nigeria prove that its industrial dreams are not built on fumes and fantasies, but on integrity, process, and shared resolve.

In only his first start for Atalanta in the on-going campaign, Ademola Lookman had an impressive performance as La Dea beat Club Brugge , 2-1.

Atalanta had to come from behind through Lazar Samardzic and Mario Pasalic to claim their first Champions League victory of the season over the Belgian side at the New Balance Arena last night.

There was no Isak Hien, Giorgio Scalvini or Sead Kolasinac in defence for La Dea, nor Charles De Ketelaere, Gianluca Scamacca or Nicola Zalewski further up the pitch.

That, however, meant that Ademola Lookman was called into the starting line-up for the first time this season, following his attempts to leave the club over the course of the summer transfer window. There was also a first start of the campaign for Brazilian midfielder, Ederson.

Atalanta threatened early on through Lorenzo Bernasconi, who thundered a fierce volley just wide of the target from 25 yards out after less than four minutes.

Ederson, Lookman and Mario Pasalic all tried their best to get Atalanta ahead, but it was the visitors who would claim the first-half lead.

Atalanta had to wait until the final 20 minutes to find the equaliser. Nordin Jackers did brilliantly to stop Musah while charging into the area, but the Brugge goalkeeper overcommitted and brought down Mario Pasalic on the follow-up.

Samardzic stepped up to convert the penalty just inside the right post to level for Atalanta with what was his first competitive goal this calendar year.

Then, with three minutes of regular time remaining, Pasalic stole the lead with a well-placed header from Samardzic’s corner delivery, sending the New Balance Arena into a frenzy.

Atalanta, who had been eliminated by Club Brugge in the Champions League play-off round last season, are now off the mark with their first victory in Europe this season.

Incidentally before the game, Atalanta coach Ivan Juric said he called on Lookman and Emerson in the starting line-up for the match because they are ‘excellent athletes’.

‘They’re quality players. They’ve been training with us for a while, I think that today is a good opportunity for them to start playing in matches,’ Juric told Sky Sport Italia about the return of Lookman and Ederson to the starting line-up. ‘They’re two excellent athletes, we’ll see how they get on during the game.’

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dismissed as false claims of persecution against Christians in Nigeria.

‘They are lying that we have religious persecution and differences. They lie all over the place that we have religious persecution.” Tinubu said at the presentation of a book authored by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, in Owerri.

The event, held at the Emmanuel Iwanyanwu International Conference Centre, which is one of the three newly completed projects earlier inaugurated by the President.

The launch of the book titled ‘A Decade of Impactful Progressive Governance in Nigeria’ drew political heavyweights such as Senate President Goodwill Akpabio, House of Reps Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Deputy House of Reps Speaker Benjamin Kalu, All Progressives Congress (APC) governors and APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda.

Traditional rulers at the event included the Oni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; Obi of Onitsha Alfred Acbebe.

The President, who also listed his administration’s main achievements, added that those who made the allegation against the country failed to realise that Nigerians were advanced enough to engage in religious persecution.

”We are more developed, civilised and well educated. Our Muslim brothers and sisters and Christian brothers and sisters are helping us to build a nation.

”We are united, no religious persecution in Nigeria – it’s a lie from the pit of hell,’ Tinubu said.

Opening his remarks on an optimistic note, he took a jab at his administration’s critics.

‘Our critics can say whatever they want because they don’t know any better; their Arithmetic has always been wrong. We understand financial engineering and progressive methodology much better than they do. That’s why we are here.’

The President restated that Nigeria has ‘turned the corner’ and that ‘the worst is over.’

He therefore urged Nigerians to ‘stay the course’ as his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda is translating into tangible recovery.

‘I stand before you confident, yet humble enough to say that Nigeria is no longer where it was 10 years ago. Today, I can confidently tell you that the worst is over. Stay the course. Believe in us because we believe in you. We trust the future’, Tinubu said.

The President pointed out that the country is steadily regaining economic credibility, citing a rise in external reserves and improving macroeconomic indicators.

‘Today, our external reserves stand at $42.03 billion, the highest since 2019. This is the proof that Nigeria is regaining its strength and credibility in the global economy,’ he stated.

He added that in the second quarter of this year, the economy grew by 4.23 percent while inflation eased to 20.12 percent in August.

The drop in inflation rate, which is described as ”relief ” is ‘the lowest in more than three years.’

”Slowly, but surely, the effects are reaching out to our people,” Tinubu said. But he had a message for Nigerians: ”You may not feel it yet, be patient.’

Underscoring a rebound in the real sector, President Tinubu reported that Nigeria’s trade surplus rose by more than 44 percent in the last quarter, while manufactured exports surged by 173 percent.

‘These numbers speak of a Nigeria that’s producing, exporting and competing more than ever before,’ he said, adding that the Naira has steadied as foreign-exchange reforms and new investment flows ‘restore confidence in our economy.’

While insisting that the upward climb ‘has been steep,’ President Tinubu maintained that the trajectory is now durable.

‘We will continue to work slowly up, but steadily now with our hands on the plough, no looking back. We are going to get to the top of the mountain,’ he said.

The President linked today’s momentum to the political turn Nigeria took a decade ago.

‘Ten years ago, our great party, the All Progressives Congress, came into office on the promise of change. That change is being witnessed here today,’ he said.

Tinubu credited the late President Muhammadu Buhari with beginning ‘the work of stabilisation,’ noting: ‘ Many years passed, mistakes were made, but the direction of our country shifted for the better ever since we came to power.’

He framed the events in Owerri as both a celebration and a record of stewardship.

Commending Governor Uzodimma for combining governance with authorship, Tinubu said: ‘Good job, good thinking, highly progressive, a man of great vision. Well done.’

By documenting ‘the milestones and struggles of the 10 years that we’ve gone through,’ said the President, the governor had given Nigeria ‘a gift.’

‘No nation can afford to forget its own journey, and no leader should escape the duty of stewardship,’ Tinubu said.

Reiterating his faith in Nigeria’s federal structure, Tinubu said the country is seeing practical dividends of reform.

‘By true federalism, there is no state governor of the Federal Republic of Nigeria that is struggling to pay salaries,’ he asserted, adding that new infrastructure ‘may outlive some of us.’

On education and social mobility, the President said: ‘Today, your children are in school. No child should go to bed hungry or be excluded from being able to pass and be admitted for higher education.’

The President highlighted improvements in healthcare capacity, saying Nigerians ‘can say confidently’ that there are well-equipped hospitals able to treat critical illnesses such as cancer.

‘We are investing in the welfare of our people. Right now, this economy will work for you, not for the smugglers, not for the corrupt,’ he said.

Tinubu thanked Nigerians for their ‘resilience,’ ‘endurance,’ and ‘perseverance,’ promising: ‘You will see prosperity, you will have it.’

Calling for patriotism as Nigeria marks 65 years of nationhood, Tinubu urged citizens to stop ‘talking ill’ of the country.

‘It’s 65 years of Independence – it is not a joke. We are proud of our forefathers. that Nigerians should be one, that it must be an inclusive government, that we must take care of the elderly, we must take care of the vulnerable, we must educate our children, build welfare that will take care of our healthcare system, [and] invest in agriculture mechanisation and irrigation,’ he said.

With adequate food production, he said, Nigeria would not only feed itself but ‘export to other countries.’

President Tinubu contrasted Nigeria’s present with ‘the old way’ that ‘brought our nation close to collapse.’

A ‘break with that past,’ he said, ‘was not an option; it was the only way forward. We broke the jinx.’

He urged Nigerians to ‘look forward,’ not back, and to measure progress by steady, real-world gains: ‘That growth is with purpose, not just on paper; it is real growth.’

Tinubu also defended the nation’s intellectual and cultural confidence amid international scrutiny.

‘We learn English, but we teach English too,’ he said, invoking a broader point about Nigeria’s capacity, cohesion, and ambition.

‘The last decade was a time of change; the coming decade will be an era of renewal and stability, and in that future, together, Nigeria will win. We will win with you’, the President assured.

Turning to Uzodimma, who is also chairman of the All Progressives Governors’ Forum, the President said: ‘You are a man of great vision, and I commend you for good thinking. Well done, seeing the projects that have been inaugurated and authoring a book is a challenging feat.’

Uzodimma reflected on Nigeria’s journey under the APC from 2015 to 2025, highlighting milestones, challenges, and lessons learned.

He emphasised that the book is not just a personal achievement but belongs to the APC family and Nigerians.

The governor described the book as a product of deep reflection that explains ‘progressivism’ in the Nigerian context.

He praised President Tinubu’s visionary leadership and role in forming the APC. He commended him for the economic progress in Nigeria.

Uzodimma told the gathering that Imo State has seen rapid infrastructure growth.

Senate President Akpabio hailed Uzodimma’s efforts in putting together a book that chronicles the APC’s achievements and his vision for Imo State.

Akpabio also commended the President for his leadership sagacity that attracts members of the opposition party to the APC.

‘Many more governors will defect to APC because of the President’s visionary leadership.”

The Obi Onitsha, who spoke for traditional rulers, also commended Uzodimma’s effort and described the book as a great service to the people.

Chairman of the IRS Group of Companies and the book presenter, Isyaku Rabiu, lauded Uzodimma for documenting the achievements of the ruling APC.

He said though not a politician, he is supporting the President for second term because of his economic policies.

Rabiu said: ‘Today, the price of a bag of rice has decreased to N50,000 due to the President’s initiatives to support farmers through fertiliser provision.’

Also, APC National Chairman, Yilwatda, described Tinubu as a custodian of transformation and a master strategist.

He also praised Governor Uzodimma for his leadership.

The governors present at the event were Babajide Sanwo-Olu(Lagos), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Monday Okpebholo(Edo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Dikko Radda (Katsina), Francis Nwofuru (Ebonyi), Inuwa Yahaya(Gombe), Abudulahi Sule (Nasarawa), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) and Mohammed Bago (Niger) .

Some of the traditional rulers were Cletus Ilomuanya, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abadi of Calabar, Etsu Nupe Yahaya Abubakar and Eze E C Okeke.

Others at the event are Chief Bisi Akande, Chief Olusegun Osoba, Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun, Budget and Planning Minister Atiku Bagudu and his Information and National Orientation counterpart Mohammed Idris.

Victor Osimhen last night scored the winner as Liverpool slumped to a shock 1-0 Champions League defeat to Galatasaray as the Nigeria International’s 16th-minute penalty handed the Turkish giants victory.

The English champions were punished for the latest in a series of poor performances in Istanbul as they suffered back-to-back defeats for only the second time under Arne Slot.

Liverpool were beaten for the first time this season at Crystal Palace on Saturday, but a series of late winners have masked an unconvincing start since a summer transformation of the squad that strolled to the Premier League title last season.

Slot responded by leaving Mohamed Salah and £125 million ($168 million) signing Alexander Isak on the bench among four changes.

The Dutchman was scathing in his assessment of Liverpool’s first-half performance at Palace as only Alisson Becker prevented an embarrassing half-time score.

However, Slot got little in the way of a response in another disjointed display from his array of star names.

Galatasaray had been thrashed 5-1 at Eintracht Frankfurt to start their Champions League campaign.

The Turkish champions are a far more formidable force on home soil, though, and made the most of Liverpool’s defensive deficiencies.

Slot’s decision to play midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai at right-back backfired.

Baris Alper Yilmaz gave the visitors a warning of the threat down Galatasaray’s left when he failed to beat Alisson when one-on-one with the Brazilian.

Liverpool should have led just seconds before they fell behind.

Hugo Ekitike was denied by Ugurcan Cakir as he tried to round the goalkeeper and Ismail Jakobs cleared Cody Gakpo’s follow-up effort off the line.

Galatasaray swiftly broke upfield and Yilmaz was awarded a soft penalty for a stray Szoboszlai arm into the Turkish international’s face.

Osimhen had previously seen a Champions League penalty saved by Alisson, but this time converted the resulting spot-kick.

Florian Wirtz has struggled badly to deliver on his £100 million price tag and is still waiting for his first Liverpool goal after his effort was turned behind by Cakir, while Ibrahima Konate headed just off target from a corner before half-time.

Konate’s poor form has been a major factor in the Reds’ defensive issues at the start of the season and the Frenchman nearly cost his side a second goal early in the second half.

Alisson saved his teammate’s blushes with another save from Osimhen but at a cost as the Liverpool number one suffered an injury sprinting off his line and had to be replaced by Giorgi Mamardashvili.

Slot introduced Salah and Isak on the hour mark, but Liverpool were still an impotent attacking force.

Isak fired tamely into the arms of Cakir with his first touch.

The closest the visitors came to a response was when French referee Clement Turpin initially pointed to the spot by a foul on Konate, but overturned his decision after a VAR review.

UCL: Yesterday’s Results

Atalanta 2-1 Brugge

Kairat 0-5 Madrid

Atletico 5 -1 Frankfurt

Bodø / Glimt 2-2 Tottenham

Chelsea 1 -0 Benfica

Galatasaray 1-0 Liverpool

Inter 3-0 Slavia Prague

Marseille 4 -0 Ajax

Pafos 1-5 Bayern