Author: user user

Governor hails drivers at Onitsha rally

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has described drivers and transport unions as critical stakeholders in the state’s economic growth and development.

The governor made this remark during the official endorsement of his re-election bid by all transport stakeholders in the state at a mega rally held at the Chuba Ikpeazu Stadium, Onitsha North Local Government Area.

He noted that while drivers contribute significantly to the economic development of Anambra, they are also among the key beneficiaries of his administration’s initiatives.

‘My deputy and I appreciate you, not only for your support but also for the vital role you play in driving the economy of the state. You are the lifeline of Anambra’s economy,’ he said.

Soludo highlighted his administration’s efforts in road infrastructure, noting that the repairs and reconstructions have reduced the constant need for vehicle maintenance.

‘We have fixed many roads, making it less necessary for constant visits to mechanics. You are partners in the progress of Anambra State’s economy.

We fixed the roads to boost the economy so that the common man can live happily and survive with less stress.

Many market women, drivers, and other stakeholders in the transport sector have acknowledged the positive changes in Anambra under my leadership,’ he added.

Expressing concern over reports of continued extortion by individuals posing as government agents, Soludo warned against any form of illegal levy collection. He pledged to establish a task force to clamp down on those extorting drivers and traders.

‘Don’t pay any money outside the officially approved government rates. All payments should be made through the government’s digital platforms.

We must also obey traffic laws and regulations. Traffic offences are serious. If you obey traffic laws, nobody will harass you.

Anyone who flouts these laws should not only be punished but also undergo a mental evaluation. Disobedience can lead to death, and we don’t want deaths on our roads,’ he cautioned.

Commissioner for Transport, Mrs Patricia Igwebuike, said the rally was organised to demonstrate the transport sector’s support for Soludo’s re-election, acknowledging his achievements in the sector.

‘The transport sector is the biggest beneficiary of the Solution Government. The governor has constructed over 1,000 kilometres of roads, and transporters are enjoying them. They no longer visit mechanics frequently,’ she said.

Coordinator of the Anambra Drivers Forum and Head of the Media Sub-Committee of the event, Comrade Osita Obi, also commended Soludo for his sweeping reforms, which he said have restored order, dignity, and accountability to the state’s transport sector.

IMF flags illicit flows as major threat to Nigeria’s revenue

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised fresh concerns over illicit financial flows (IFFs) from Nigeria, warning that they are exacerbating the country’s already strained revenue position and undermining efforts to achieve fiscal sustainability.

Speaking at the 2025 IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington, Kristalina Georgieva, IMF Managing Director said the Fund is increasing its focus on tracing and curbing illicit flows, particularly in countries like Nigeria where revenue mobilisation remains a critical challenge.

‘We believe that for countries like Nigeria, the IMF’s renewed focus on tracing illicit financial flows could provide a blueprint for plugging the fiscal leakages that have long undermined revenue generation and sustainable growth,’ Georgieva said.

Illicit financial flows – which include stolen public funds, proceeds from corruption and criminal activity, and anonymous digital transactions – are costing developing economies billions of dollars annually.

In Nigeria, the problem has taken on heightened urgency as the country faces rising debt servicing costs, declining oil revenues, and limited fiscal space to fund development priorities.

Georgieva described IFFs as a global threat that is especially harmful to developing countries. ‘You may have money, just plainly stolen money that belongs to the taxpayers. You may have private money directed for criminal activities undermining the welfare of citizens,’ she said. ‘Now with digital money, criminal activities can be funded without being traced. This is a serious problem, and we have to take it as such.’

While illicit flows are not new, the IMF said their nature has become more complex. A recent policy briefing from the Fund highlighted how IFFs now range from traditional embezzlement and trade misinvoicing to modern methods such as the misuse of cryptocurrencies and digital platforms for anonymous cross-border transactions. Officials noted that weak enforcement, limited oversight, and institutional gaps continue to allow such practices to thrive.

In response, the IMF has stepped up efforts to integrate anti-corruption and financial integrity assessments into its core operations. ‘Following the money has now become a compulsory part of the IMF’s annual Article IV consultations – the standard economic health check for member countries,’ Georgieva said. ‘This ensures that the Fund routinely assesses each nation’s exposure to illicit flows and financial integrity risks.’

The IMF also confirmed that any financial program involving countries with systemic IFF vulnerabilities would now include specific corrective measures. Technical assistance, policy advice, and targeted training are being extended to help governments detect and respond more effectively to suspicious transactions.

Nigeria, Africa’s largest population, has long struggled with revenue underperformance. Non-oil revenues remain low by global standards, and a significant portion of potential tax income is believed to be lost to illegal outflows and corruption. Government efforts to reform tax administration and improve compliance have made some progress, but leakages persist.

Georgieva said the IMF was also supporting governments through its Governance Diagnostics initiative, aimed at identifying institutional weaknesses that enable corruption and financial crimes.

‘The governance diagnostic is not an audit; it is about identifying vulnerabilities in the institutional setup – the breeding grounds for problems – and proposing reforms to address them,’ she explained. She emphasised that reversing the tide of illicit financial flows will require collaboration beyond government agencies. Civil society groups, financial institutions, and international partners all have roles to play in promoting transparency and accountability.

‘We ask our teams to engage with civil society and non-government institutions because they often know where the vulnerabilities lie,’ Georgieva said. ‘Working together, we can build trust and achieve more.’

The IMF praised countries like Kenya and Sri Lanka for adopting collaborative frameworks to combat financial crime and reinforce good governance, and encouraged Nigeria to continue building institutional capacity to close fiscal gaps and restore investor confidence.

Governor Okpebholo drops Attorney-General Osagie

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has sacked Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie.

He was among the first persons to be sworn in as commissioner immediately the governor assumed office.

No reason was given for his sack.

Speculations have been rife that Osagie would soon been kicked out of Okpebholo’s executive council (exco) after Prof. Roland Otaru was nominated as commissioner.

The sacking of Osagie was yet to be announced, but his name was missing on the list of commissioners released after the governor sworn in new commissioners.

Besides the sacking of Osagie, Governor Okpebholo also increased ministries to 28.

A statement by Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, said the increment was to ‘ensure the seamless alignment of the governor’s SHINE Agenda with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It said the restructuring was aimed to enhance administrative efficiency, improve coordination across critical sectors and strengthen the capacity of government to deliver effectively on its mandate to the people of Edo State.

According to the statement, ‘in view of this strategic positioning, the governor has approved the creation of additional ministries and the revival of some defunct ones, bringing the total number of ministries in Edo State to 28.

On the list, no commissioner was assigned to the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy. Felix Akhabue was assigned to the Ministry of Works, Andrew Ijegbai was assigned to the Ministry of Mining, Prince Kassim Afegbua was assigned to the Ministry of Information and Strategy, while Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Paul Ohonbamu, was redeployed to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

Omoh Anabor was deployed to the Ministry of Business, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jerry Uwangue was assigned to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and Prof. Omorodion Ikponwosa was assigned to the Ministry of Livestock Development.

The Ministry of Environment and Sustainability has Nosa Adamsnas as its commissioner, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole and Dr. Paddy Iyamu were retained in the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education.

Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development has Dr. Lucky Eseigbe as its commissioner, Ministry of Lands and Housing has Yakubu Oshiorenua Musa, Ohimai Ehijimetor is the commissioner in Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, Etin-Osa Ogbeiwi was assigned Ministry of Science and Technology

and Dr. Washington Osifo was retained in the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.

Osagie thanked Governor Okpebholo for giving him the opportunity to serve.

FG to establish national job centres to tackle unemployment – Minister

Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, the minister of state for labour and employment, has unveiled plans for a network of National Job Centres across Nigeria as part of the federal government’s effort to create dignified, inclusive, and transformative work opportunities in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The announcement was contained in a statement released by Tósìn Olúwal?´w?`, her special adviser on media and communications, on Wednesday, following Onyejeocha’s remarks at the Mastercard Foundation Annual Nigeria Partner Convening in Lagos.

According to the minister, the National Job Centre Project will serve as a nationwide network of employability hubs designed to connect skilled Nigerians to real job opportunities and strengthen the country’s labour market infrastructure.

‘The National Job Centres will integrate digital job matching, data tracking, and career advisory services to create a harmonised and inclusive system,’ Onyejeocha said.

‘They form part of a national labour framework that empowers youth to contribute meaningfully to local industries and compete confidently on the global stage.’

She also unveiled the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP), a flagship initiative aimed at improving the employability of young Nigerians and easing the transition from training to employment.

‘Through LEEP, we are enhancing the employability of young Nigerians and strengthening the bridge between training and jobs,’ she explained. ‘Our goal is not just to create employment but to build systems that protect workers’ rights, ensure fair wages, and strengthen labour market governance.’ Onyejeocha commended the Mastercard Foundation for its partnership with Nigeria through the Young Africa Works strategy, noting that it has provided youth with essential skills, job opportunities, and entrepreneurship support.

‘Over the past six years, through the Young Africa Works strategy, your partnerships have not only provided skills but opened pathways to jobs, entrepreneurship, and hope for thousands across Nigeria,’ she said.

She added that the Foundation’s strategy aligns strongly with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to turn skills development into sustainable employment opportunities.

‘Your focus on evidence, collaboration, and inclusion resonates deeply with the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly our national drive to make skills-to-jobs a reality for every Nigerian youth,’ she added.

Onyejeocha emphasised the need for collaboration among government institutions, the private sector, and civil society to build a resilient labour market.

‘Building an inclusive and sustainable ecosystem for work requires collective effort. We invite partners to collaborate with us in driving job access through these platforms and accelerating economic outcomes across Nigeria’s labour ecosystem,’ she said.

Nigeria’s inflation falls to 18.02% in September on drop in food prices

Nigeria’s consumer price has slowed to 18.02 per cent, helped by a further drop in food prices.

Food inflation month-on-month fell to -1.57 per cent in September.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the Consumer Price Index declined to 18.02 per cent in September 2025, the sixth consecutive month from 20.12 per cent in August 2025. On a month-on-month basis, the headline inflation rate in September 2025 was 0.72 per cent.

Okpebholo confirms 5,000 contract teachers as permanent staff in Edo

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has confirmed the appointment of 5,000 contract teachers under the State’s Ministry of Education as permanent staff.

The teachers were initially engaged by the previous administration on a contract basis and received a monthly stipend of ?65,000.

Governor Okpebholo, who supervised the distribution of appointment letters at a ceremony held on Wednesday at the Government House, said the move reflects his administration’s commitment to valuing and empowering educators.

He emphasized the critical role teachers play in shaping the future of Edo State and reaffirmed his government’s dedication to improving their welfare and working conditions.

According to him, ‘Teachers, I am happy to see you. I wanted it this way, because, I had asked several times if you had received your letters. The answer was no. So, I decided to supervise the process myself. As you collect your appointment letters today, you will also receive transport fare because I know many of you have traveled long distances.

‘You are very important to us. Your reward is no longer in heaven; it is here, under our watch.’

Edo Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, who thanked the teachers for their perseverance, said neautiful schools without teachers were useless.

‘Today, an angel has come, a leader who thinks about your welfare day and night.’

‘He met Ambrose Alli University with a ?41 million subvention and increased it to ?500 million. Right now, a 1,500-capacity lecture theatre and a 600-capacity hostel are under construction.’

Dr. Iyamu said the EDU-Rescue Programme was launched to give children from poor backgrounds access to quality education.

Katsina govt will not negotiate with bandits – Radda

Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State has stated that his administration will not engage in negotiations with bandits operating in parts of the state but remains open to peace initiatives led by local communities.

The Governor disclosed this on Wednesday when he commissioned 100 newly trained officers of the Community Watch Corps (C-Watch), expanding the security outfit’s presence to 20 of the state’s 34 local government areas.

Speaking during the passing-out ceremony of the third batch of C-Watch officers in Katsina, Radda highlighted his administration’s sustained efforts to restore lasting peace across the state.

According to him, ‘When we launched the Community Watch Corps over two years ago, we were in uncharted territory. The learning curve was steep, and the uncertainty was high. We were a new administration with the arduous task of bringing peace and security to many parts of the state.

‘The only thing I was certain of was my administration’s determination to bring an end to banditry in Katsina State. I campaigned on it, and the trust of the people was not going to be forsaken.’

The newly graduated officers will be deployed to Kankia and Dutsin-Ma Local Government Areas of the State, with 50 officers assigned to each. Dutsin-Ma, which borders Safana, Danmusa, and Matazu, remains one of the epicentres of banditry in the state.

‘The headlines say the Katsina State Government is negotiating with bandits, but that is far from reality. I have publicly maintained that the government will not negotiate with bandits but will always welcome peace,’ Governor Radda declared.

He explained that the ‘Katsina Model’ is a fully community-driven approach, allowing members of affected communities to initiate and negotiate peace pacts with repentant bandits who agree to lay down their arms.

‘The role of the state government is to encourage and support the peace process while maintaining law and order in these communities. Our focus is to ensure that communities that enjoy peace also benefit socio-economically, giving our people a dignified existence,’ he said.

Radda further highlighted the success of the community peace accord initiative, noting that ‘Jibia has enjoyed eight months without a major attack, while Batsari has recorded seven months of uninterrupted peace. Other local government areas, Danmusa, Safana, Faskari, and Sabuwa, have also witnessed relative calm since adopting the initiative’. He reaffirmed that kinetic measures by federal security agencies remain vital to Katsina’s overall security architecture.

‘This ceremony is proof that the state government will not relent in fighting insecurity and banditry wherever they exist. Those who wish to return to crime will face the full force of the law,’ he warned.

He commended the Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Army, and Nigeria Police for their strong collaboration with the state government, noting that synergy with federal agencies has improved intelligence sharing, response times, and coordinated operations.

‘You are entrusted not only with maintaining security but also with representing the shared goals of a peaceful and prosperous Katsina State. It is essential to uphold integrity, professionalism, and respect for human rights at all times,’ he charged the new officers.

The Community Watch Corps was launched over two years ago as part of the administration’s broader strategy to combat insecurity through community participation. Earlier in his remarks, Nasir Mu’azu, the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, said, ‘No doubt, Governor Radda saw, he analysed, and he conquered using a homegrown initiative of community approach where young abled men from their various communities were selected, screened, trained, and deployed to serve as the first line of defense to their mothers, fathers, wives, daughters, sisters, brothers, and friends.’

The event marks the third phase of the C-Watch training after the first in October 2023 and the second in November 2024.

Also speaking, Major General Junaidu Bindawa (Rtd), Chairman of the Standing Committee on the Katsina State Community Watch Corps, said the recruits underwent intensive training in minor tactics, weapon handling, communication, arrests, community policing, rules of engagement, and intelligence gathering, adding that, the goal was to make them disciplined, professional, and community-focused.

Uma Ukpai was God’s General, says Akpabio

More tributes have been pouring in for the late preacher and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Works Minister Dave Umahi, Governors Hope Uzodimma (Imo) and Alex Otti (Abia) yesterday mourned the eminent cleric.

In a personal tribute, Akpabio described the late Uma Ukpai as ‘God’s General’ who stayed true to his calling and impacted not only the Kingdom of God but humanity as a whole.

He added: ‘Today, we mourn the passing of God’s General, Evangelist Uma Ukpai, whose transition has left the body of Christ and indeed humanity as a whole in a profound state of sadness. He was not just an Evangelist who won many souls for God, but a beacon of light who illuminated countless souls.

‘It is remarkable that Evangelist Uma Ukpai stayed true to his calling with an unwavering commitment to preaching the word of God globally. His legacy remains one of impact, inspiration and hope for those whom he encountered.

‘He was a man of great faith. While he committed his life to God and His work, he also catered for humanity through the establishment of schools and medical facilities to provide for the educational and healthcare needs of his communities.

‘His passing has left an indellible mark on the hearts of many. Though this is a great loss not just to the body of Christ, I find solace in the fact that Heaven has gained one more Angel to watch over the flock of God. Indeed, he has joined the heavenly choir to sing praises in the presence of God.

‘His journey may have ended, but his legacies live on in the hearts of humanity. Indeed, he has fought a good fight, he has finished his course, and he has kept the faith. May his soul rest in the bosom of the Lord whom he served.

‘My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, his entire family, and the body of Christ. May you all find solace in the remarkable and impactful life that he lived and the knowledge that he may have left us physically, but his legacies live on.’

In his condolence message, Umahi described the late evangelist as ‘a man of immovable faith who preached the gospel of Christ with decades of unwavering devotion’.

The minister recalled the late Ukpai’s lifelong dedication to evangelism and spiritual mentorship, saying his insightful sermons had shaped the faith of countless Christians worldwide.

‘The late Uma Ukpai was a renowned preacher and teacher of the gospel whose insightful sermons helped in shaping the spiritual journey of many Christians worldwide.

‘He was a man of immovable faith who preached the gospel of Christ with decades of unwavering devotion. He shall be remembered for his untiring commitment towards promoting the flourishing of the word of God.

‘He continued to preach the gospel of Christ until his last day on earth when he was ushered into the glorious presence of his heavenly Father,’ Umahi said.

Governor Uzodimma recalled that the fiery preacher, known for organising large crusades across continents, channelled his intellectual gifts into building institutions, such as schools, hospitals, and charitable centres.

He wrote: ‘I admired him for his brand of evangelism, which had no boundaries. I admired him for his faith. I also admired him for his resilience and deep intellectualism.’

The Imo State governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) also stated that the late Uma Ukpai used his evangelism to foster national unity by promoting messages of patriotism and shared identity.

According to him, although Dr. Ukpai hailed from present-day Abia State, he settled and built his ministry in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, in a practical demonstration of belief in one Nigeria, united by common destiny.

‘From that base, he reached out to the world,’ the governor said.

Uzodimma added that a remarkable feature of Dr. Ukpai’s ministry was his focus on the gospel of Jesus Christ rather than personal glorification.

‘By setting up a non-denominational ministry, the late evangelist demonstrated in practical terms that Christian unity is not only feasible but desirable. We have truly lost a great soldier of Christ,’ he said.

Also, Abia State Governor Alex Otti; former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu; the General Overseer of Chapel of Faith Bible Assembly International, Bishop Prof. Emeka Nwankpa, and eminent Abia State residents have paid tributes to the late Dr. Uma Ukpai.

Governor Otti recalled what he called the father-son relationship between him and Dr. Ukpai over the years.

The governor said Ukpai’s death has created a vacuum in Christendom, the state, and the country.

He said: ‘Our father in the Lord, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, has, to the joy of the Heavens and celebration of the Angels, gone to be with the Lord.

‘He was the father of all, a soldier of Christ and a generational teacher who yielded himself to Christ and became a potent instrument for healing of the sick, salvation for lost souls, fulfilment of the scriptures and manifestation of the prophesies of God.

‘His death is devastating because of the positive influence he wielded, the positive impacts he made, the lives he touched in very special ways, and above all, the vacuum his exit has created.’

In a condolence message he personally signed, the immediate past governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, described the late evangelist as one of the greatest gifts that God gave to Abia State and humanity.

Ikpeazu wrote: ‘The passing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai came to me as a moment of deep personal grief and reflection.

‘Abia, Nigeria, and indeed the world, have lost a man of uncommon faith, humility, and spiritual depth. He was profoundly impactful.

‘Rev. Ukpai was one of Abia’s greatest gifts to Christianity and humanity, a man whose life radiated divine purpose and total devotion to God’s work.

‘Personally, I feel his loss very deeply. Rev. Uma Ukpai was a steadfast supporter throughout my tenure as Governor of Abia State.

‘He stood by me with prayers, words of wisdom, and unwavering encouragement.

‘He believed strongly in the vision of a peaceful and progressive Abia and constantly reminded me to govern with compassion, humility, and the fear of God.

‘Even beyond public office, Rev. Ukpai remained a source of personal strength and spiritual guidance. His kindness, simplicity, and deep love for humanity were evident in every interaction.

‘He was a man who carried God’s presence everywhere he went, bringing hope to the hopeless, healing to the afflicted, and light to those in despair.

‘Rev. Uma Ukpai’s life was a true testimony of what it means to live for God and to serve others selflessly.

‘His ministry touched countless lives across nations and generations, and his legacy of faith and service will continue to inspire us all.

‘On behalf of my family, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Ukpai family, the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, and the entire body of Christ.

‘While we mourn his passing, we take solace in knowing that he lived a fulfilled life and has now entered into the eternal rest of his Master, whom he served faithfully till the end.’

The General Overseer of Chapel of Faith Bible Assembly International, Bishop Prof. Emeka Nwankpa, express sorrow over the passing of Dr. Ukpai.

In a heartfelt condolence message, Bishop Nwankpa described the late Rev. Ukpai as ‘a towering figure in the Christian faith, a father in the Lord, and one of the greatest evangelists Nigeria has ever produced’.

He wrote: ‘Rev. Uma Ukpai’s departure marks the end of a glorious era of uncompromising evangelism and selfless service to God and humanity.

‘He lived for the Gospel, laboured for the Kingdom, and left an indelible mark on the sands of time. His life was, indeed a sermon, one that will continue to inspire generations of believers.’

Nigeria’s competitive currency spurs trade surplus, bolsters domestic production, says Cardoso

WASHINGTON D.C || Nigeria’s competitive currency has helped the country achieve a trade surplus and strengthened domestic production, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Olayemi Cardoso said on Tuesday.

The governor made the disclosure during a press briefing on the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four on International Monetary Affairs and Development (G-24), a forum that coordinates the positions of developing countries on international monetary and development finance issues.

The G-24 session was addressed by Pablo Quirno, Secretary of Finance at the Ministry of Economy, Argentina. First Vice-Chair was Olawale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Nigeria, who was represented by Governor Cardoso. Second Vice-Chair was Jameel Ahmad, Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, and the Director of the G-24 Secretariat, Iyabo Masha, was also present.

Speaking on trade and tariffs, Cardoso said Nigeria had been relatively insulated from major external shocks.

‘From Nigeria’s perspective, trade and tariff impacts have been less of a problem for us. We were fortunate because many necessary actions were done earlier, creating resilience and buffers against potential shocks. Oil is basically the only commodity so exposed, and the impact has been relatively modest,’ Cardoso said. ‘We now have a more competitive currency, resulting in a positive balance of trade, with a trade surplus expected at around six percent of GDP. Essentially, this is part of a complete restructuring of the economy, where a competitive currency encourages domestic production and discourages imports.’ On balancing economic growth with social equity, the governor emphasised the importance of sound domestic policies and multilateral coordination. ‘Countries operate within a global framework where multilateral institutions play a key role alongside governments. Balancing growth and social equity is critical. Sound domestic fiscal policies reduce government intervention in private markets, encourage investment, and facilitate growth. Coordination with multilateral development banks supports infrastructure, resource mobilization, and workforce development, strengthening the multilateral framework.’

He also highlighted the G-24’s role in fostering dialogue between developing economies and global institutions. ‘The G-24 is a body comprising countries with common interests. They have been relatively successful in facilitating dialogue. For example, this morning we had discussions with both the Managing Director of the IMF as well as the representative of the Managing Director of the World Bank, where there was an exchange of ideas that helps the leadership of the Bretton Woods institutions understand directly from the players what the issues are and where the pain points really lie.

From that perspective, it has been a very effective engagement. The communique that comes out is also very useful, covering issues from domestic resource mobilization to inflation and other commonalities among G-24 members. They learn from us, and we learn from them. There were points today about growth being behind, but not as behind as expected, and the correlation between sound macroeconomic policies, growth, and disinflation. These are critical issues for our economies.’

On the use of local currencies in trade settlements, Governor Cardoso acknowledged previous challenges but indicated ongoing efforts. ‘To be frank, we have had an experiment with that, and it didn’t work out very well for us. That’s not to say we are not interested; we are at an elementary stage of putting up a framework now that our currency is more competitive, to ensure it’s a win-win for everybody.’

In his remarks, Pablo Quirno noted that recent adverse shocks have left growth below pre-pandemic levels, with rising policy uncertainties creating substantial medium-term headwinds. Emerging market and developing economies have faced deteriorating terms of trade, reduced export volumes, and declining foreign currency earnings. Many of these countries have implemented domestic policies to mitigate uncertainty, but constrained policy space underscores the urgent need for collective solutions supported by multilateral institutions.

CJN, ICPC Chair, NJI Administrator decry delay in determination of corruption cases

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Aliyu (SAN), and the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), Justice Babatunde Adejumo, have expressed concern over the slow pace at which courts determine corruption cases in the country.

Justice Kekere-Ekun, Aliyu, and Musa, who called for an urgent reversal of the current trend, argued that prompt determination of corruption cases will not only restore public confidence in the judicial process, but it could also deter those planning to engage in corrupt practices.

The three legal giants spoke in Abuja at a capacity-building workshop jointly organized by the NJI and the ICPC, with the theme: ‘Reinforcing effective management and trial of corruption cases.’

The CJN, who was represented by Justice John Okoro of the Supreme Court, decried the slow pace at which corruption cases are determined by the nation’s courts.

She argued that the development was capable of eroding public confidence in the Judiciary’s capacity to dispense justice and at the same time, embolden the criminals, who are neck deep in corrupt practices.

CJN said, ‘A major concern in the adjudication of corruption cases in Nigeria is delay. It is a matter of great regret that many corruption trials drag on for years, sometimes even decades, undermining public confidence in the administration of justice.

‘Justice delayed is, indeed, justice denied. Delay in corruption cases breeds doubt, fuels impunity, and creates the perception that corruption pays.

‘If the Judiciary is to retain the confidence of the people, we must devise and implement effective strategies to curb unnecessary adjournments, discourage frivolous interlocutory applications, and embrace robust case management practices that ensure trials proceed with speed without sacrificing fairness.

‘This calls for a renewal of our commitment to judicial courage and efficiency. Case management powers must be exercised firmly but fairly. Procedural loopholes must not be allowed to become the refuge of the accused.

‘At the same time, however, the Judiciary must never lose sight of its sacred duty to uphold the fundamental rights of all persons who come before it.

‘The balance between expeditious trial and fair trial is delicate, but it is one we must constantly strive to maintain,’ she said.

Justice Kekere-Ekun noted that corruption today is not what it was two or three decades ago, adding that ‘the advancement of technology, the globalization of financial systems, and the increasing complexity of commercial transactions have created new avenues for corrupt practices.

‘Money is laundered through elaborate schemes, assets are concealed across jurisdictions, and digital platforms are exploited to cover illicit dealings.

‘The judge, who must preside over corruption cases, cannot afford to remain static. Continuous training, exposure to emerging trends, and familiarity with both local and international instruments against corruption are indispensable.

‘Workshops such as this are vital; they serve not only as platforms for knowledge transfer but also as opportunities for introspection and re-commitment.

‘With courage, integrity, and steadfast commitment, the Judiciary can and must play its role in expunging corruption from our society,’ the CJN said.

Aliyu said the policy of the ICPC under his leadership, which prioritizes corruption prevention while maintaining a strong enforcement focus, has yielded commendable outcomes.

He said, ‘This strategic shift has already begun to yield positive results in 2024, with the commission blocking over 20 billion naira from reaching the pockets of ghost workers and pensioners.

‘Additionally, we initiated a programme, Accountability and Corruption Prevention in Local Government Councils in Nigeria, to enforce the Supreme Court’s decision on local government autonomy.

‘In this programme, too, from May 2025 to date, across six states, we recovered more than N2.5 billion in outstanding remittances of tax deductions from ministries overseeing local government affairs on joint projects between local and state governments,’ he said.

Aliyu argued the effective administration of justice in corruption cases requires both vigorous law enforcement and scrupulous judicial oversight.

He noted that the recent developments in the fight against corruption necessitate this capacity building to enhance judicial officers’ ability to handle corruption cases with speed and consistency, because the cases were becoming more complex due to rapid technological advancement and societal challenges.

The ICPC boss explained that the expected outcomes of the capacity-building workshop were to enhance judges’ skills, knowledge, and professional ethics in handling corruption cases.

He added that the workshop is equally intended to strengthen institutional performance through practical application of anti-corruption laws and strategies, and foster greater collaboration and innovation between the judiciary and the ICPC, thereby promoting integrity, fairness, and public confidence in the justice system.

Justice Adejumo said the workshop became imperative in view of the deleterious effect of corruption on the nation’s development, noting that ‘corruption has remained one of the greatest impediments to our national growth and the consolidation of our democratic institutions.

‘Its deleterious impact touches every aspect of governance, the economy, and indeed the administration of Justice. For the Judiciary, corruption not only undermines our ability to deliver justice but also erodes the confidence of the very public we are sworn to protect.

‘For the fight against corruption to succeed, judicial officers must be properly equipped with the tools, knowledge, and ethical compass required to rise above challenges and discharge this sacred duty with courage and integrity.

‘To this end, this workshop is carefully designed to sharpen our skills in handling corruption-related matters.

‘It will expose participants to contemporary issues in case management, best practices in the trial of corruption cases, as well as emerging global trends that can guide our local experience.

‘Furthermore, it affords us the opportunity to reflect on the peculiar obstacles that impede the effective trial of corruption cases in Nigeria – including delay, procedural bottlenecks, technical objections, and ethical dilemmas- whilst collectively seeking practical solutions,’ Justice Adejumo said.