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Equipment Leasing Association of Nigeria (ELAN) has urged lessors and leasing companies to register all lease agreements with the Equipment Leasing Registration Authority (ELRA) to strengthen the economy.

Executive Secretary, Equipment Leasing Association of Nigeria (ELAN), Andrew Emonuwa, said this during a capacity-building programme for ELRA staff with the theme ‘Equipment Leasing: From Principle to Practice.’

Emonuwa said leasing remained a key financing option for businesses, especially in sectors such as agriculture, construction, transportation, healthcare and manufacturing, where access to equipment was critical for growth.

In a statement signed by Adebola Sunday, Head, Media and Corporate Communication (ELRA) Emonuwa explained that proper registration of lease agreements would enhance transparency, provide accurate industry data, strengthen investor confidence and support policy formulation for the sector’s expansion.

He said: ‘By registering lease agreements with ELRA, lessors will not only fulfill regulatory obligations but also contribute directly to building a stronger financial ecosystem.’

Emonuwa noted that compliance with registration requirements would stimulate capital formation, create jobs, and improve access to essential equipment for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which are vital to Nigeria’s economic development.

He commended ELRA’s innovation in the leasing industry, noting that the Authority had improved regulation, compliance and stakeholder engagement, thereby positioning the industry for a more significant role in Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts.

Chief Executive Officer of ELRA, Donald Wokoma, welcomed the collaboration between ELAN and ELRA, describing it as a ‘win-win for all stakeholders.’

Wokoma said the partnership would enhance regulatory oversight, promote industry cooperation, and reinforce leasing as a driver of sustainable economic growth.

He reaffirmed ELRA’s commitment, under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Finance, to fostering transparency, innovation and accountability in the leasing sector.

He said the agency would continue to provide an enabling environment that ensures the leasing industry contributes meaningfully to national development.

The training programme, he added, aimed to equip ELRA staff with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively implement policies, strengthen collaboration and promote best practices to advance the leasing profession nationwide.

Family of the late Chief Ugochukwu Chikezie of Ofeiyi, Ogbodiukwu, Umuahia, Abia State, has announced his burial plans.

In a statement, it said Chikezie, who died at 76, will be buried November 7.

A Service of Songs held at his Ijaiye Medium Housing Estate, Agege, Lagos, home weekend.

Another will hold at Ofeiyi, Ogbodiukwu, Umuahia South, Abia on November 6.

Chikezie was eulogised for his love, wisdom, and the legacy he left behind.

‘Chikezie was born on May 2, 1949, in Ogbodi-Ukwu Umudike Ofeiyi, Umuopara, Umuahia South Local Government, to Okezie Ogbuji and Mrs. Nwanyi-Ocha Okezie.

‘He began his education at Seventh-Day Adventist Primary School in Umuahia North, and later Evangel High School. He was in University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to study Sociology/Anthropology, and had a Master’s in International Relations from UNILAG, ‘ it said.

He left a wife, Victoria, children, and grandchildren.

The Eko Tourism Foundation (ETF) has been formally launched with a bold mandate-to transform Lagos into Africa’s leading tourism hub and usher in a new era for Nigeria’s tourism industry.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Lagos, Chairman of the ETF Board of Trustees and Governing Board, Lai Mohammed, described the Foundation as ‘a forward-looking initiative designed to position Lagos as Africa’s foremost tourism destination.’

Mohammed, who served as Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism between 2015 and 2023, said the ETF-an initiative of the 137-year-old Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI)-will serve as a unifying platform for government, private sector players, and other stakeholders.

Its core objectives include policy advocacy, marketing Lagos as the partner of choice for global tour operators, and promoting ‘Destination Lagos’ and ‘Destination Nigeria’ on the world stage.

‘Tourism is one of the most powerful engines of growth anywhere in the world. The Eko Tourism Foundation will harness that power to boost Nigeria’s economy and create millions of jobs,’ Mohammed said.

He added that Lagos is already gaining global attention through ‘Detty December,’ its concerts, nightlife, Owambe parties, fashion, food, and culture. The Foundation, he noted, will build on this momentum by turning the city into a year-round global attraction.

Highlighting the sector’s impact, Mohammed revealed that Nigeria’s tourism industry currently supports between 10 and 15 million jobs and contributed 3.6 percent (about US$17.3 billion) to the country’s GDP in 2022. Lagos alone, he said, hosts over 2,000 hotels with more than 70,000 rooms-boasting some of the highest occupancy rates on the continent.

Citing projections from the World Travel and Tourism Council, he disclosed that Nigeria’s tourism is expected to grow by 5.4 percent annually from 2023 to 2030, generating 2.6 million new jobs and US$5.58 billion in revenues.

The ETF, he explained, envisions tourism as a sustainable alternative to Nigeria’s oil-dependent economy. Its mission is to attract the world to Lagos through its rich history, landmarks, food, music, film, fashion, arts, and culture.

To achieve this, Mohammed unveiled key strategic programmes: ETF Trust Fund – to mobilise tourism investments, ETF Academy – for human capital development, Annual International Conference and Exhibition – to showcase Lagos globally, Experience Lagos project – offering immersive and virtual tours, ETF Quarterly Publication – for data and industry insights, ETF Club and Annual Festival – to nurture young talent and future tourism leaders.

He also announced membership categories with tailored benefits for stakeholders, ranging from Grand Patrons and Ambassadors to Industry Heroes and Custodians.

Mohammed commended LCCI President and ETF Founding Father, Gabriel Idahosa, for his vision, and praised other Board of Trustees members-including Erelu Abiola Dosunmu (Erelu Kuti IV of Lagos), Nike Okundaye, Prince Yemisi Shyllon, Karl Hala, Iyadunni Gbadebo, and Tunde Lawrenson-for their dedication.

Calling for broad national support, he stressed the need for unity in the sector: ‘The tourism industry has suffered for too long from fragmented efforts and incoherent voices. The Eko Tourism Foundation is here to harmonise the industry, attract investments, and create millions of jobs. But we cannot do it alone.

We need YOU-industry players, policymakers, investors, the media, and every Lagosian-to partner with us. Together, let us make Lagos not just Nigeria’s commercial hub, but the tourism capital of Africa.’

The Senate will begin a busy legislative quarter after an eight-week annual vacation tomorrow.

Top of the agenda are the 2026 budget, constitution amendment and the Electoral Act.

Among such legislation is the ongoing alteration process of the 1999 Constitution.

The House of Representatives, last week, held its National Public Hearing on about 86 constitutional amendment bills.

The Senate is expected to conduct a similar process ahead of the presentation of the report of its Ad Hoc Committee on Constitution Review for consideration and passage.

All bills passed by both chambers after due voting would be sent to the state Houses of Assembly for further consideration and passage.

Two-thirds of the Houses of Assembly must concur with the National Assembly before any bill can stand.

Thereafter, all the bills passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives would be compiled by the National Assembly and transmitted to the President for assent.

Also, another critical legislation is the 2022 Electoral Act Amendment Bill.

Both chambers have promised to prioritise the passage of some of the amendments being sought ahead of the 2027 general election.

While receiving the Head of European Union Election Observation Mission (EOM) to the 2023 general election, Mr Barry Andrews, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, said the House would fast-track the passage of the amendments upon resumption.

‘Senate to avoid Akpoti-Uduaghan’s distraction’

The suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s office was unsealed on September 23 by the Sergeant-At-Arms.

She was accompanied to her office by a crowd of supporters.

Sources said the Senate has resolved to put the issue behind it and allow the matter to end.

According to a source, the Senate has decided to leave the issue and allow Akpoti-Uduaghan to return in order not to stir further controversy that may distract it from focusing on crucial tasks before it.

Sir: On a single trip transporting agricultural products from Taraba to Kano, I paid over N170,000 in multiple levies and illegal collections. Nearly 20 revenue collection points stood between my goods and their destination, excluding the routine security checkpoints that also demanded ‘compensation.’ By the time I reached Kano, the cost of simply moving food had become a burden too heavy to ignore.

This is not just my story; it is the story of every trader, farmer, and transporter who struggles to move goods across Nigeria. It is also the hidden story behind every inflated price you see at the market, every household budget stretched to breaking point, and every young Nigerian who wonders if farming or trading is still worth the sacrifice.

For decades, we have spoken of Nigeria’s rising food prices. We often blame oil price fluctuations, poor infrastructure, insecurity, or low productivity. While all these are true, the less visible culprit is the endless chain of local levies, multiple taxes, and roadside extortion that weigh heavily on the journey of food from farm to table.

Think of this: the farmer who harvests in Taraba may sell his produce at a fair price. However, by the time the goods reach Kano, Kaduna, or Lagos, the cost has tripled, not due to greed, but because the road is littered with tolls, each demanding a payment in the name of ‘revenue.’ Nigerians believe merchants exploit farmers, but in reality, these hidden charges are quietly passed down to the final consumer.

It is frustrating to collect receipt after receipt, sometimes with the same charges under different names. In one journey, a transporter could be forced to carry multiple state revenue receipts, each one required just to pass through another state. This does not build trust or accountability; it breeds anger, corruption, and inefficiency.

The tragedy is that this long chain of collectors achieves the opposite of what Nigeria needs. Instead of encouraging agricultural productivity and food distribution, it discourages traders, weakens farmers’ earnings, and makes food less affordable. It is a silent attack on our food security.

As a young entrepreneur with less than three decades of life and a decade of business experience, I cannot stay silent. Patriotism is not only about flags, anthems, or election-day promises; it is also about advocating for the ordinary farmer, the driver on the road, and the consumer struggling to afford garri, rice, or beans.

Every Nigerian has felt the pain of rising prices, whether in the market, at the filling station, or on the road. When I speak of 20 checkpoints on one journey, I am speaking of a system that holds us all back. The dream of a prosperous Nigeria cannot exist when hidden levies choke the very lifeline of our economy, food.

We must do better. Nigeria urgently needs a unified revenue system that allows traders to move goods across states with a single receipt, digitally integrated and recognised nationwide. One charge, clearly accounted for, and transparent to both government and citizens.

This reform would not only eliminate duplication and extortion but also make it easier for businesses to plan costs, partner with logistics providers, and stabilise food prices. Most importantly, it would give Nigerians confidence that the government stands with them, not against them, on the road to economic recovery.

We have a long way to go, but every reform, every checkpoint removed, and every levy harmonised brings us closer to a fairer Nigeria. The future of our nation depends not only on oil or infrastructure but on the dignity of labour; on the ability of farmers and traders to move food freely, and for families to afford it without despair.

Twenty checkpoints should not stand between Nigeria and its future. The cost is too heavy, and the burden is one we can no longer ignore.

The United Nations (UN) has invited Ondo South Senator Jimoh Ibrahim to its Global Parliamentary Conference on Counter-Terrorism and the Prevention of Violent Extremism.

Ibrahim is a member of the African Parliamentary Union delegation.

The conference will be held by the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) Programme Office on Parliamentary Engagement in Preventing and Countering Terrorism, with the support of the Shura Council of the State of Qatar.

It is slated for October 7 and 8, in Istanbul, Republic of Trkiye.

A letter of invitation by DiC Chief Special Projects and Innovation Branch, United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, Guadalupe Megre, which was addressed to the Secretary-General of the African Parliamentary Union in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Mr. Idi Gado Boubacar, stated that the senator’s contribution would add significant value to the discussions and outcomes.

‘I am pleased to extend, through your esteemed Office, an invitation to Professor Jimoh Ibrahim Folorunsho, Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and member of the African Parliamentary Union delegation, to participate in this important Conference. His contribution will add significant value to the discussions and outcomes.

‘UNOCT will be pleased to cover round-trip economy-class airfare and hotel accommodation for Senator Folorunsho’s participation.

‘The conference will bring together parliamentarians from across the world, representatives of parliamentary assemblies, United Nations entities, civil society, and academic experts to strengthen parliament-led responses to evolving terrorist threats in full respect of international law and human rights,’ the letter said.

Ahead of the 2nd edition of the 10th c Football Championship, top officials of the Grassroots Sports Federation (GRASOF) has paid a courtesy visit to its patron, Distinguished Senator Dr. Mao Ohanbunwa and the Ambassador of Burundi, His Excellency Hon. Edward Nduwimana. The delegation was led by Hon. Alhaji Ali Gombe, Chairman of Mobilization, Marketing, and Sponsorship, and Hon. John Ekpenyong, Tournament Coordinator.

During the visit, the GRASOF team briefed Senator Ohanbunwa, Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Port Harcourt, on the forthcoming 2nd edition of the 10th Senate President’s U-18 Unity Football Championship. The tournament is scheduled to take place from November 7th to 17th in Abuja.

Senator Ohanbunwa expressed his enthusiasm for the tournament and promised to be fully involved in this year’s edition. He commended GRASOF’s efforts in developing and discovering young talents, urging the organization to continue the good work.

The visit is part of GRASOF’s efforts to engage with stakeholders and partners to ensure the success of the tournament. The Senate President’s U-18 Unity Football Championship aims to promote unity, sportsmanship, and healthy competition among Nigerian youths while identifying and nurturing budding football talents.

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have dismantled two major drug cartels behind six consignments of cocaine in a series of intelligence-led operations that lasted over three weeks across Lagos.

The drugs were concealed in walls of stainless cups, body cream and hair gel containers, leading to the arrest of five suspects and ultimately the arrowhead of the syndicate, Alhaji Hammed Taofeek Ode, who parades as a businessman and real estate developer, according to Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja, Femi Babafemi.

In a statement, on September 16, this year, Babafemi said, the agency’s operatives at the export shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja Lagos intercepted 174 parcels of cocaine weighing 13.40 kilogrammes, which were concealed in walls of cocoa butter body cream containers.

Union Bank of Nigeria has underscored the importance of healthy body and workplace as the bank staged the inaugural edition of its ‘Stay Recharged Health Walk’.

The walk, which kicked off at the Stallion Plaza, Union Bank’s head office in Marina, passed through 7.5 kilometres of several vibrant Lagos streets to terminate at the bank’s sports complex, The Stable, on Bode Thomas Street, Surulere.

Chief Talent Officer, Union Bank of Nigeria, Omayuli Wale-Ajayi, said the dynamic event affirmed the bank’s steadfast commitment to employee well-being and sustainable workplace development.

According to her, the overwhelming participation and enthusiasm from employees from diverse departments and locations made it a celebration of physical fitness, mental health, and the power of community spirit.

She explained that ‘Stay Recharged’ was a featured event drawn from a cornerstone of Union Bank’s employee value proposition of employee wellness, thoughtfully crafted to foster a culture where health, happiness, and productivity flourish.

She noted that the initiative responded directly to the urgent need for purposeful wellness programmes that nurture both physical and mental health at work, adding that the programme reflected the bank’s recognition that employee wellbeing is fundamental to sustained productivity, engagement, and organisational excellence.

She said: ‘At Union Bank, well-being is not an afterthought; it is part of how we work. Our inaugural Stay Recharged Health Walk reflects our commitment to building a culture where our people are energised, supported, and thriving. When we take care of ourselves, we build stronger teams and stronger institutions.

‘The ‘Stay Recharged Health Walk’ aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. This initiative reflects Union Bank’s commitment to fostering a workplace culture that prioritises employee wellness, supports decent and productive work, and contributes to long-term organisational sustainability.

‘By investing in these wellness experiences, Union Bank not only strengthens its internal community but also reinforces its reputation as an employer of choice. Union Bank remains dedicated to developing innovative, health-focused programmes that inspire employees to adopt healthier lifestyles, supporting long-term growth for both individuals and the organisation’.

Amanda Anisimova beat Linda Noskova 6-0, 2-6, 6-2 to win the China Open for her second title of a breakthrough year and fourth overall.

Yesterday, the third-seeded American survived a second-set wobble to overpower the Czech 26th seed in one hour and 46 minutes in Beijing.

She lifted the trophy in the Chinese capital almost exactly one month after reaching the US Open final, where she lost to world number one Aryna Sabalenka.

‘It’s been an incredible few weeks,’ Anisimova said. ‘I felt a lot of love,’ she added, thanking the crowd for their support at the centre Diamond Court.

The 24-year-old Anisimova is the third American to win the China Open after last year’s champion Coco Gauff and 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams.

Anisimova collapsed to the hard court in victory, lying on her back and putting her hands over her face.

Anisimova began ruthlessly, winning the first set in 23 minutes without dropping a game.

A defiant Noskova – contesting her first WTA 1000 final – found her feet in the second set, breaking early and powering to a 5-2 lead before closing out.

The two went toe-to-toe in the decider until Anisimova broke for a 4-2 lead, digging deep to reach the finish line with a winner on the first match point.

It’s been a stellar season for the world number four, who was also runner-up at Wimbledon.

This time last year, Anisimova was at world no. 43.

After her win Anisimova extended her gratitude to her coaches.

‘We’ve had a lot of challenges and despite that we also still have so much fun.

‘It’s crazy that we made it this far and to get the win today has been very special.

‘I’m excited for a lot more, and hopefully we can keep going.’

Anisimova dumped out second seed Gauff in the Beijing semi-finals, thrashing the two-time Grand Slam winner 6-1, 6-2 in 58 minutes.

Noskova, who started her Beijing run as world no. 27, said: ‘I definitely wasn’t coming here feeling like I was gonna play finals, so nice surprise.’

Anisimova congratulated her opponent whom she called ‘so young’ and said they ‘still have a lot of finals to play’.

Their match was the second WTA 1000 final in which both players were born during the 2000s.