Category: Business Day

Nigeria and the European Union (EU) have renewed their commitment to deepen diplomatic and parliamentary relations as part of broader efforts to strengthen regional development and global cooperation.

The renewed partnership was announced on Monday during a visit by members of the European Parliament to Abuja.

The delegation, led by David McAllister, chairman of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, was received by Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s minister of Foreign Affairs.

Tuggar described the EU as one of Nigeria’s most strategic partners, noting that the relationship between both sides dates back several decades.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to expand collaboration with the European bloc in areas such as governance, trade, and sustainable development.

‘We have the burden of responsibility to develop our region, and the European Union model is our model.

‘We will do everything possible to strengthen our diplomatic and parliamentary ties with the EU and fast-track Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable development’, Tuggar said.

The minister also highlighted Nigeria’s growing engagement with the EU, citing its membership as the 77th shareholder of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

He said the partnership reflects Nigeria’s expanding role in the global economic and diplomatic space.

In his remarks, McAllister commended Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa and reiterated the EU’s commitment to sustaining a strong and mutually beneficial relationship.

He described Nigeria as an ‘indispensable partner’ in driving Africa’s development and promoting global stability.

‘Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation and one of its key economic and political players, is an indispensable partner to the European Union.

‘Our visit here is not only to strengthen existing ties but also to lay the groundwork for a successful EU-Africa Summit’, McAllister said.

McAllister explained that the visit to Nigeria formed part of a broader diplomatic tour across West Africa, which also included Ghana and other countries.

The engagements, he said, were aimed at fostering deeper understanding, mutual trust, and collaboration on key global issues such as democracy, trade, security, and climate resilience.

China has tightened its grip on Nigeria’s fast-growing solar market, accounting for more than 70 percent of all panel shipments into Africa’s biggest economy in the first half of 2025.

The latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed Nigeria imported solar panels worth N242.68 billion ($163 million) between January and June, with N173.15 billion of that total, or 71.38 percent coming directly from China.

The surge underscores China’s continued dominance in global solar manufacturing and Nigeria’s accelerating shift toward renewable energy amid deepening instability in the national grid. Imports from China dwarfed those from other suppliers such as the United Arab Emirates (N28.69 billion) and India (N16.82 billion), cementing Beijing’s role as the backbone of Nigeria’s distributed energy transition.

Solar imports into Nigeria climbed 17.29 percent year-on-year from N206.82 billion recorded in the same period of 2024. The NBS said solar panels represented about 2.2 percent of the country’s total merchandise imports of N10.99 trillion during the first half of 2025, a remarkable share given the foreign exchange pressures and high import tariffs that continue to constrain most sectors.

‘The spike in imports shows that Nigerians are increasingly taking power generation into their own hands,’ said a Lagos-based energy economist, who asked not to be named. ‘Persistent blackouts, diesel costs, and erratic grid supply are accelerating private solar adoption faster than government-led electrification programs.’

The growth in solar panel imports contrasts sharply with a slump in formal capital investment in the broader electricity sector. NBS figures show that capital importation into electricity fell 60.2 percent year-on-year to $22.17 million in the first half of 2025, down from $55.67 million a year earlier.

Analysts say the divergence suggests that Nigeria’s solar expansion is being financed more by households, small businesses, and corporate buyers than by large-scale institutional investors. Rooftop installations, mini-grids, and commercial hybrid systems are proliferating across urban and rural Nigeria as citizens seek to cut reliance on the fragile national grid.

The Nigerian solar market, valued at over $600 million in 2024, is projected to grow 15%-20% annually through 2030, according to industry estimates. Demand is being driven by both necessity and falling technology costs, even as the naira’s weakness against the dollar and import bottlenecks inflate short-term prices.

Nigeria’s electricity supply remains chronically unreliable. While the country has an installed generation capacity of about 13,000 megawatts (MW), available output rarely exceeds 4,000 MW. Frequent load shedding and widespread blackouts have forced businesses and households to rely on costly, polluting diesel generators.

At a diesel price averaging N988 per liter in October 2025, powering even a medium-sized business has become financially unsustainable. That has made solar power, despite its upfront costs, an increasingly attractive long-term alternative. ‘Every day without grid power is a day solar becomes more viable,’ said a Lagos-based solar developer. ‘Chinese modules dominate the market because of their competitive pricing, availability, and strong distribution networks.’

The growing import bill is also prompting debate within government circles about how to reduce dependency on foreign panels. Officials are weighing incentives to attract investment into domestic solar manufacturing, including potential import restrictions and tax holidays under the Pioneer Status Incentive scheme.

Nigeria’s Free Trade Zones are being positioned as potential hubs for renewable manufacturing, with authorities projecting that local production could create thousands of jobs while lowering system costs.

However, industry players caution that achieving full-scale local manufacturing will require more than policy intent. ‘Solar production is capital-intensive and supply-chain dependent,’ said the CEO of a renewable energy firm. ‘Without stable power, access to finance, and a reliable raw materials base, local assembly may remain the most realistic near-term step.’

Nigeria’s solar momentum is also influencing regional markets. Neighbouring countries, including Niger and Ghana, have launched new off-grid programs inspired by Nigeria’s consumer-driven model. Developers say West Africa could emerge as one of the world’s most dynamic distributed solar markets if governments provide consistent policy and financing support.

Meanwhile, Chinese manufacturers are deepening their presence across Africa, using Nigeria as a gateway to expand market share. Beijing’s cost advantage, established supply chains, and financing support through its export credit agencies give Chinese firms a strong competitive edge.

Despite the short-term challenges of currency volatility and import dependence, analysts say the surge in solar imports marks a critical pivot in Nigeria’s energy story, from centralised, oil-dependent power generation to decentralised, renewable energy resilience.

The momentum, if sustained, could help Nigeria cut diesel consumption, lower emissions, and accelerate progress toward its net-zero commitments. As the government pursues its goal of achieving energy access for all Nigerians by 2030, solar power, led by imports from China, is fast becoming the foundation of that transition.

The Anioma State Creation Movement has commended the National Assembly Joint Committee on Constitution Review for unanimously endorsing the creation of a new state in the South East.

The movement, in a statement on Sunday in Lagos by its Media Director, Chief Tonnie Oganah, described the decision as a bold and historic move toward achieving equity and restoring balance in Nigeria’s federal structure.

Oganah said that the NASS approval, which came during a two-day retreat in Lagos, marked a major breakthrough in the long-standing agitation for an additional state in the South East.

He said that the South East is currently the only geopolitical zone with five states: Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo, saying ‘other zones have six states each, except the North West, which has seven’.

According to him, the NASS endorsement represents a significant step toward ensuring justice for the Igbo nation and fulfilling the constitutional promise of fairness among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

Oganah expressed the movement’s gratitude to the National Assembly for recognising the South East’s long-standing demand for parity.

He said that the decision reflected the spirit of inclusion and national balance.

‘Anioma people support the proposal as the first step to equalising the Igbo nation in Nigeria,’ he said.

He said that ensuring equal state creation across all six geopolitical zones would strengthen democracy, unity, and the credibility of Nigeria’s federal system.

‘For fairness and stability, all six zones of Nigeria should have an equal number of seven states each, just like the Northwest.

Oganah also highlighted the economic benefits of state creation, saying it would create jobs, empower young people, and drive grassroots development.

According to him, Sen. Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North, is working tirelessly to actualise the Anioma State creation in 2025.

‘The creation of Anioma State is not just a local ambition-it is a step toward restoring fairness in Nigeria’s federal structure and empowering the Igbo people politically and economically,’ Oganah said.

Speaking on Anioma’s cultural identity, Oganah reaffirmed that the proposed state remained part of the Igbo nation and naturally belongs to the South-East.

‘Even though we have lived peacefully in the South-South, our cultural identity remains clear.

Anioma means ‘the good land’, and it deserves a place among its brothers in the South-East,’ he said.

The Abuja Detty December 2025 celebration is set to create jobs and stimulate business activities across key sectors such as tourism, hospitality, entertainment, transportation, and retail in the Federal Capital Territory.

While unveiling plans for Abuja Detty December (ADD) 2025, a 13-day citywide festival aimed at positioning the Federal Capital Territory as Africa’s next major December tourism and entertainment destination, Organisers say this year’s edition will draw thousands of visitors from within and outside the country.

Speaking during a press briefing held in Abuja, the organising committee described the festival as more than just another entertainment event.

Scheduled to run from December 21, 2025, to January 2, 2026, the event will transform Abuja into a vibrant hub of music, art, culture, fashion, food, comedy, sports, and nightlife, a full display of the energy and creativity that define modern Nigeria.

According to the organisers, Abuja Detty December was conceived to showcase Abuja as a global entertainment hub while complementing Lagos’ long-established December scene.

The organisers project that more than 3,000 people, including vendors, artisans, and security personnel, will be directly or indirectly engaged.

It is also designed to stimulate tourism and hospitality growth, attract both local and international visitors, and provide a dynamic platform for Nigerian creatives, entertainers, and entrepreneurs to thrive.

Beyond entertainment, the initiative seeks to create socio-economic impact by generating employment opportunities, driving youth engagement, and promoting unity through cultural and artistic expression.

Themed: ‘Capital City December Experience’ with the sub-theme ‘From Remittances to Renaissance: Returning to Rebuild Nigeria.’ Organisers explained that the concept captures a vision of leveraging diaspora capital and connections to fuel national development, converting emotional ties into sustainable economic opportunities.

A series of events will define the ADD experience, including a star-studded Grand Concert and Opening Night at the National Stadium Hockey Pitch on December 21, a Pool Party at Varuna by Good Beach on December 24, and a colourful Cultural Carnival and Street Parade on Boxing Day.

Other attractions include the Miss ADD Beauty Pageant on December 28, a Celebrity Football Match on December 30, and a spectacular Fireworks and Countdown Concert to usher in the new year on December 31.

Throughout the festival, the ADD Village will host exhibitions featuring arts, crafts, cuisine, and small businesses.

Organisers revealed that parts of the festival will be livestreamed globally to allow members of the Nigerian diaspora to experience the event virtually and reconnect with home.

‘Abuja Detty December 2025 has already attracted strategic partnerships across the entertainment, media, hospitality, and corporate sectors.

‘Confirmed partners include Moniepoint, Varuna by Good Beach, Shelter Homes, and Wealth Bridge Asset Managers, among others.

‘Beyond its cultural value, the event is expected to make a significant economic impact on Abuja’s economy’, the committee stated.

The festival, according to the committee, will attract over 50,000 local attendees and at least 1,000 international visitors, injecting millions of naira into the hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors.

The committee described Abuja Detty December 2025 as a bold vision for unity, creativity, and cultural pride, a festival that embodies the rhythm and spirit of Nigeria’s capital.

Heineken Lokpobiri, minister of state for petroleum resources (oil) says Nigeria’s Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) now shares over N2 trillion every month among the three tiers of government, following the removal of fuel subsidy by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Lokpobiri, who disclosed this at the 9th edition of the 2025 OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week in Lagos, said the bold decision to end the decades-long subsidy regime had freed up enormous fiscal resources that are now being redirected to critical infrastructure and development projects across the country.

‘Before subsidy removal, FAAC shared less than N1 trillion monthly. Today, we are sharing over N2 trillion because the subsidy burden has been lifted,’ the minister said. ‘This shows the policy was necessary to put Nigeria on a path of sustainability.’

The minister noted that the decision to remove fuel subsidies was one of the most courageous decisions taken by any Nigerian leader in recent history. He praised President Tinubu for demonstrating ‘political will and economic foresight’ despite initial resistance from citizens and political stakeholders.

According to him, the new fiscal reality reflects the ‘freedom of movement’ in government finances, allowing states and local governments to access more revenue for people-oriented projects.

‘The subsidy regime was not sustainable. We were practically subsidising the entire West African region,’ Lokpobiri said. ‘With its removal, more funds are now available for roads, healthcare, education, and other infrastructure that directly benefit Nigerians.’

Lokpobiri told delegates that subsidy removal had also opened up the downstream petroleum sector to private investment, competition, and innovation, creating a more transparent and market-driven environment.

He said the previous subsidy system discouraged private sector players from investing in refining and distribution, as government pricing distortions created uncertainty and losses.

‘The downstream can only grow when the right incentives are in place,’ he said. ‘Subsidy removal has liberalised the sector, allowing investors to come in, compete fairly, and drive efficiency. That’s how we can achieve price stability, sustainability, and affordability.’

Lokpobiri praised indigenous refiners like Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL)’s initiatives for their ongoing efforts to expand local refining capacity, saying such investments would save foreign exchange, create jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s energy security.

He confirmed that the government would continue to provide an enabling environment for downstream operators through clear regulatory frameworks, fiscal stability, and investor-friendly policies.

Speaking on the global energy transition debate, Lokpobiri cautioned African countries against prematurely abandoning their oil and gas resources in pursuit of Western-driven climate targets. He said recent data from the International Energy Agency (IEA) underscores the continuing importance of hydrocarbons to global energy security.

‘The IEA has now admitted that the world must invest at least $540 billion annually in oil and gas to avoid an energy crisis by 2050,’ Lokpobiri said. ‘This is a major shift from their earlier position. It shows that hydrocarbons will remain central to meeting the world’s growing energy demand.’

He emphasised that Africa, with a population exceeding 1.5 billion people, represents a vast energy market that must be developed responsibly to lift millions out of poverty.

‘Africa currently imports over $120 billion worth of refined petroleum products annually. This shows we have both the market and the demand,’ he said. ‘The task ahead is to build the infrastructure, attract the capital, and refine our products locally.’

Lokpobiri added that Nigeria was positioning itself as a regional hub for petroleum products through the West African Gas Market initiative, which seeks to expand cross-border energy trade and enhance energy access within the subregion.

Lokpobiri reiterated that Nigeria’s approach to the energy transition must be guided by national realities, not external pressure. He said while developed countries were responsible for over 97 percent of global carbon emissions, Africa contributed only about 3 percent, yet faces the greatest restrictions in accessing climate finance.

‘Even if Africa stops emitting today, global warming will not stop,’ he argued. ‘The West that caused the problem is slowing down its commitments, yet wants Africa to halt its development. That’s not fair.’

He called for a unified African voice in international energy forums, urging leaders to push for equitable energy financing and resist attempts to ‘weaponise capital’ against developing economies.

‘We cannot depend on pledges that never materialise,’ he said. ‘Billions of dollars have been promised to Africa in climate funds, yet little has been disbursed. We must find homegrown solutions to finance our energy future.’

The minister highlighted that with the right policies, Nigeria can attract massive foreign investment across the upstream, midstream, and downstream segments. He disclosed that the petroleum ministry was already engaging potential investors from the United States, Europe, and the Middle East who have expressed interest in Nigeria’s expanding energy space.

‘In the past two years, we’ve seen increased investor confidence,’ he said. ‘During my recent trip to the U.S., we signed letters of intent with several energy firms. The capital is available, what we need is to make it accessible and transparent.’

Lokpobiri emphasised that Africa must leverage its vast natural resources to drive industrialisation, build regional energy value chains, and reduce dependence on imported fuels.

‘If we harness our oil, gas, and human capital effectively, Africa alone is enough to sustain global growth,’ he said. ‘The focus now should be on expanding investment, not retreating from our resources.’

The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), seven days to file his final written address in his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism, following his decision not to present a defence.

Justice James Omotosho approved Kanu’s request for a week to submit the written argument after dismissing his earlier no-case submission.

Kanu had previously indicated plans to call 23 witnesses, including Nigerians and foreigners, to testify in his defence.

In a motion filed on October 21 and signed by him, he divided the witnesses into two groups those he described as ‘ordinary but material’ and others as ‘vital and compellable’ to be summoned under Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011.

He had also requested 90 days to complete his defence due to the number of witnesses.

However, on Thursday, Kanu dismissed his legal team led by Kanu Agabi, SAN, and opted to represent himself. The court adjourned the case to Friday for him to begin his defence.

When the matter resumed, Kanu told the court that his former lawyers had not yet handed over his case file, prompting another adjournment until Monday.

Expecting him to begin his defence, the court reserved several seats labelled ‘summoned witness.’

At Monday’s hearing, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, appeared for the prosecution, while Kanu represented himself. Awomolo noted that the day was scheduled for the defendant to open his defence.

Kanu, standing in the dock, said he had reviewed the case file and found no valid charge against him, arguing that the prosecution had no legal basis for the case.

‘There is no case against me. If there is no case, it would be pointless to present a defence,’ he told the court.

Justice Omotosho explained that once the prosecution closes its case, a defendant may make a no-case submission, present a defence if overruled, or rest on the prosecution’s case and file a final written address.

He further clarified that if a defendant chooses not to present a defence, they may file a written address to which the prosecution will respond before judgment.

Kanu maintained that there was no valid charge against him. The judge reminded him that his earlier ruling held that Kanu had a case to answer.

Kanu then asked for a week to file a written submission asserting that no valid charge existed and that his continued detention and trial were unjustified.

He also requested release or bail.

Awomolo argued that Kanu’s decision not to present a defence meant the case was effectively concluded.

He noted that Kanu had pleaded not guilty, cross-examined witnesses, and participated in the proceedings, but now declined to proceed further.

Awomolo urged the court to adjourn for judgment, stating that Kanu’s argument amounted to a legal defence based on points of law.

Justice Omotosho observed that Kanu’s position challenged the validity of the charge, which still constituted a form of defence.

He directed Kanu to present his arguments in writing and advised him to seek guidance from legal professionals before proceeding.

‘I urge you to consult people knowledgeable in criminal law,’ the judge said. ‘You are educated, but you are not a lawyer. This is a criminal trial; please seek proper advice.’

The judge noted that after Kanu dismissed his lawyers, he considered assigning the case to the Legal Aid Council or a lawyer willing to act pro bono, but Kanu refused and insisted on representing himself.

Omotosho said he had a duty to explain the implications of that choice.

The court granted Kanu four working days from Monday to file his written address and serve it on the prosecution, which will then file its reply.

The matter was adjourned to November 4, 5, and 6 for the possible adoption of final addresses or for Kanu to open his defence if he changes his mind.

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The appointment of new service chiefs is seen as a major step towards reducing the rising spate of terrorism in the nation.

President Bola Tinubu, last week, appointed Olufemi Oluyede as the new chief of defence staff, sacking Christopher Musa.

Oluyede will now oversee the coordination of all military operations across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

He also appointed Waidi Shuaibu as the new chief of army staff. While Sunday Kelvin Aneke is the new chief of air staff, Idi Abbas is the chief of naval staff.

The appointments have attracted mixed feelings from security chiefs, with some saying that the new officers have the capacity to quell the growing spate of terrorism in the country, and others sensing politics.

Shehu Sadeeq, a retired military officer, said the president’s decision to keep changing military leadership appears to be a continuous effort to find capable hands who can deliver results.

‘What the president is doing is to continue searching until he finds people that can complete the job,’ Sadeeq said, noting that the new appointees should be given time to prove themselves.

Sadeeq stressed that genuine progress against insecurity requires honest communication between the armed forces and the nation’s political leadership.

He accused some military officers of being too diplomatic when briefing the president, instead of presenting the true picture of operational realities.

‘A soldier is not a politician. When you meet the President and Commander-in-Chief, tell him what you need. You are not a magician. Stop giving false hope,’ he said.

He noted that Nigeria’s armed forces remain grossly under-resourced both in manpower and equipment, describing the current troop strength as ‘far from adequate.’

Sadeeq criticised the long-standing practice of redeploying soldiers from one hotspot to another, saying it only shifts insecurity rather than addressing it.

‘If they attack Zamfara, troops are moved there from Zaria or Borno. But when Zaria is attacked, where will they move troops from again? We’re just chasing shadows,’ he said.

Ishaq Monguno, a retired naval officer, said he trusts the president’s capacity to appoint men who can deliver results.

‘No matter what the reasons are, you cannot keep doing one thing over and over and expect a different result. The president was right in changing them at this time. With new people come new strength, new desires and new methodologies to fight terrorism and rising insecurity in the nation.’

Politics is paramount

However, Auwal Rafsanjani, Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), warned that Nigeria’s growing tendency to retire well-trained and experienced military officers for political reasons is undermining the strength, discipline, and professionalism of the armed forces.

Rafsanjani, who spoke with BusinessDay while assessing recent changes in the nation’s security leadership, said politically-motivated retirements erode institutional memory, waste years of investment in training, and weaken the country’s overall defence capability.

He urged the government to prioritise merit, competence, and continuity over political considerations in future military appointments, stressing that such arbitrary decisions are detrimental to national security.

‘We cannot keep wasting billions training officers only to retire them for political reasons. The younger recruits cannot replace that level of experience overnight,’ he warned.

On the recent appointment of new service chiefs, the CISLAC boss said President Bola Tinubu acted within his constitutional powers, explaining that military appointments typically run for two to three years.

However, he cautioned that mass retirements driven by politics, rather than performance, weaken institutional capacity and disrupt command stability.

Rafsanjani noted that Nigeria’s insecurity will persist unless the government addresses deep-rooted issues such as corruption in defence procurement, poor military welfare, and lack of coordination among security agencies.

He criticised the persistent corruption in defence spending, saying that despite huge budgetary allocations, there is little evidence of modern equipment, adequate logistics, or improved operational readiness among troops.

‘The alleged corruption in defence procurements has not been addressed. The provision for modern equipment and facilities to confront insecurity has not been met despite the military allocations,’ he said.

The CISLAC chief also decried the poor welfare and motivation of security personnel, pointing to unresolved issues around promotions, training, and retraining.

He warned that neglecting troop welfare undermines morale and operational effectiveness.

He called for a clearer definition of roles among security agencies and stronger cooperation, coordination, and intelligence-sharing frameworks.

Beyond structural overlaps, Rafsanjani expressed concern over weak border management and rising oil theft, accusing relevant agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service of failing to stop the smuggling of arms and crude oil.

Emmanuel Onwubiko, national coordinator of the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), accused the president of removing the former service chiefs for political and personal reasons.

He claimed the shake-up was more about self-preservation than tackling insecurity.

‘I don’t believe the president changed the service chiefs because of insecurity. He did it for selfish interests, out of fear of a possible coup,’ Onwubiko alleged.

He argued that if the decision were truly about improving national security, the president would have also sacked the Inspector-General of Police, whom he described as ineffective.

He argued that Nigeria’s security challenges remain complex, requiring not just leadership changes but also deeper reforms, particularly in funding, manpower, and strategic coordination, across the nation’s security institutions.

Civil society organisations (CSOs) have raised concerns over the Federal Government’s delay in releasing funds for Nigeria’s 2025 immunisation programme, warning that the bottleneck could derail vaccine distribution nationwide and threaten child health outcomes.

This comes as the Senate considers a bill to amend the National Health Act (2014) and increase the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) from 1% to 2% of the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) targeted at improving vaccine financing, boosting primary healthcare, and expanding insurance access for vulnerable Nigerians.

Speaking at a consultative workshop on ‘Why Invest in Immunization? – From the Lens of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)’ on Thursday in Abuja, Chika Offor, chief executive officer of Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC) said the amendment has become necessary to ensure that vaccine funding is ‘ring-fenced’ and protected from budgetary competition with other health priorities.

‘It has become imperative that we have such a fund because immunization saves economies,’ Offor said.

She emphasized that immunization funding must be placed in a protected budgetary line – one that cannot be diverted or delayed during fiscal adjustments.

‘It should not be left to struggle under the service-wide vote with many other items. We are waking up from our slumber to start conversations on how to secure immunization and other essential health commodities,’ she added.

Although some government officials, including the Minister of State for Health, have argued that the 1% increment should cover general primary healthcare operations, Offor agreed that it should not be for immunisation alone but insisted that the final policy must be clear and equitable.

‘I agree completely that it cannot be for immunisation alone because we’re looking at the health of Nigerians. This is just a proposal that will go through public hearing and be refined into a robust document that caters to all Nigerians,’ she said.

Opo explained that CSOs are working with government agencies and experts to articulate recommendations that will strengthen accountability and ensure that whatever is agreed upon benefits citizens.

Turning to the issue of budget implementation, Offor raised concerns over delays in releasing funds for vaccine procurement.

‘For 2024, only 25% of the ?137 billion immunisation budget has been paid,’ she revealed. ‘As for 2025, not a penny has been released. This is worrisome because we just concluded an integrated immunisation campaign targeting over 100 million children. We cannot afford stockouts at a time when vaccines are saving lives daily.’

She explained that the 2023 co-financing budget was paid at the end of 2024, while the 2024 allocation remains partially released.

‘The 25% that was released came around June 2024,’ she said. ‘Now, we are in October, and there has been no release at all for 2025. The current budget cycle ends in December, and that’s why CSOs are coming together to demand that immunisation funds be clearly referenced in the budget. We cannot keep doing the same thing every year and expect different results.’

She said CSOs would continue to push for both the release of outstanding 2024 funds and the timely disbursement of 2025 allocations.

‘What we are praying for is that the government releases both 2024 and 2025 funds,’ she said. ‘We’re already targeting over 100 million children. If the government truly wants to meet its promises, the funds must be made available.’

Offor further proposed a broader approach that includes tapping 1% from the Federation Account to cater to health in general.

‘If we could get 1% from the Federation Account, that would be a huge pot that can sustain healthcare,’ she said. ‘That would require a constitutional amendment, but if that’s not feasible now, let’s manage what we have – the additional 1% from the Consolidated Revenue Fund to support immunisation and other commodities such as nutrition and family planning.’

She stressed that vaccines remain one of the most cost-effective interventions in global health.

Senate backs amendment for sustainable funding

Senator Banigo reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to strengthening health investments through immunization, describing vaccines as ‘vital to Nigeria’s future.’

She explained that the existing 1% allocation to the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) has become inadequate amid rising healthcare costs and declining donor support, stressing the need to boost Nigeria’s domestic resource mobilization.

‘The 2014 Act was a landmark commitment to financing primary healthcare in Nigeria. However, the current 1% of the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) is no longer sufficient to meet the growing health demands of our people,’ Banigo said.

According to her, the proposed amendment to increase the allocation from 1% to 2% will strengthen primary healthcare facilities nationwide, expand insurance coverage for the poor and vulnerable, and improve maternal, child, and immunization outcomes.

She emphasized that vaccines would particularly benefit from the increased funding, which would enhance coverage and delivery across the country.

‘This amendment is not just about numbers; it’s a call to action. Health promotion funding should not be viewed as a cost but as an investment in Nigeria’s future,’ she added.

If passed, the revised allocation could push the BHCPF to providing much-needed fiscal space for vaccine procurement and delivery across the country’s struggling primary health system and reduce the nation’s reliance on donor funding.

Immunisation remains one of Nigeria’s most effective public health interventions, credited with saving millions of lives annually from preventable diseases such as measles, polio, and diphtheria.

Yet, coverage has stagnated below 60%, weakened by funding shortfalls by inconsistent of government financing.

Senator Banigo, however, maintained that the Legislature has played its part by advancing the amendment bill and called on the Executive and development partners to ensure timely budget releases and accountability in implementation.

‘The challenge is no longer with the Legislature – we have done our part. What remains is for the Executive to ensure timely releases, and for CSOs to sustain advocacy for transparency and effective utilization,’ she said.

Experts call for accountability and timely releases

Also speaking, Hon. Usman Mohammed, former Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Health Services in the 8th National Assembly, described the situation as ‘deeply worrying,’ stressing that underfunding immunisation directly endangers Nigerian children.

‘Investment in vaccines is investment in Nigeria’s economic productivity. Every delay puts children at risk and weakens our public health security,’ he said.

Mohammed urged the National Assembly to work closely with the Executive to ensure timely releases, adding that ‘the leadership must act fast to prevent another cycle of preventable disease outbreaks.’

In his remarks, Dr. Aminu Magashi, CEO the Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN), said the delay in fund releases undermines Nigeria’s co-financing commitments and increases dependency on international donors.

‘When government fails to release its share of immunisation financing on time, it leaves development partners struggling to fill the gap,’ he said. ‘That is not sustainable. We must promote co-financing and timely releases to ensure vaccines are available in all facilities and zero-dose children are reached.’

Dr. Amina also called for greater transparency in the proposed BHCPF increase, urging lawmakers to include a clear budget line for immunisation within the 2% allocation.

‘We support raising the BHCPF to 2%, but there must be clarity on how much of that fund goes to vaccine procurement, ‘he said. ‘Immunisation should not just be a broad mention – it should have a dedicated provision.’

Chef Tolulope Erogbogbo, popularly known as Chef Eros, has always been defined by audacity. From selling chicken in college to creating culinary experiences that have graced tables from Lagos to Los Angeles, his story is one of grit, reinvention, and refined vision.

Martell’s Swift Diaries, a bold mini-series spotlighting four extraordinary Nigerians known as ‘The Swift Ones’ we see a side of Chef Eros that goes beyond the kitchens and high-profile clientele. We see the man who has a passion for cooking and dared to dream.

The Early Spark

Before he became The Billionaire Chef, Chef Eros was simply a young man who believed that food could be more than survival. It could be a language, a business, and a bridge between worlds.

While studying abroad, he started a small food venture, where he sold fried chicken, and the business became so popular his friends nicknamed him ‘The Chicken Guy.’ It was an early glimpse of the entrepreneurial spirit that would later define his career.

‘You see that intersection where food and business meet? That’s where I’ve always felt most at home,’ he shares in Swift Diaries

When The Flame Flickered

At 21, Eros returned to Lagos with a dream to open a restaurant alongside his mother. Financial challenges mounted, the restaurant struggled, and he was served a quit notice. It was a moment that could have ended his story, but instead, it lit a new fire within him.

‘Every great chef burns a few things before they get it right,’ he reflects.

This resilience, the refusal to let failure define him is what makes him a true Swift One, embodying Martell’s belief that audacity shapes legacy.

Reinvention

Chef Eros’s next chapter began unexpectedly, with a craving for cookies. That simple moment led to the birth of a small cookie business that became an instant hit. He recalls selling over half a million cookies in a single day and sharing them with stars like Don Jazzy and Dr. Sid.

‘One minute I was craving cookies, the next I was sharing them with Don Jazzy and Dr. Sid,’ he laughs.

From there, doors began to open. Chef Eros became a brand ambassador, gained access to a professional kitchen, and soon began curating private dining experiences for Lagos’s elite. Each venture sharpened his craft and brought him closer to his true calling; elevating Nigerian cuisine to the world stage.

The Billionaire Chef

Today, Chef Eros is celebrated globally for his artistry and his mission: to put Nigerian flavors on the fine-dining map. Through Ìlè Eros in Lagos and Ìlè LA in California, he has created spaces where tradition meets innovation, where local ingredients are transformed into experiences worthy of global recognition.

Forbes once dubbed him ‘the man who knows what billionaires eat for lunch.’ But for Eros, being The Billionaire Chef is not about monetary wealth, it’s about richness in culture.

‘The Billionaire Chef is one who is wealthy in culture and exports that culture,’ he says in Swift Diaries.

His journey mirrors Martell’s legacy, which is built on craftsmanship, authenticity, and the audacity to break boundaries.

A Celebration of Audacity

Chef Eros’s story is one of four narratives featured in Martell’s Swift Diaries, a groundbreaking mini-series that celebrates Nigerians who embody the spirit of audacity and excellence.

Alongside Eros are Young Jonn, the legendary hit producer turned chart-topping artist, Timini Egbuson, the award-winning actor who built his name through perseverance; and Tubo, the fashion visionary reshaping African fashion design. Together, they represent the bold new generation of Nigerians who are shaping culture in their own way.

Watch Chef Eros’s Swift Diaries episode exclusively on Martell Nigeria’ official YouTube channel, and catch it on MTV Base and BET on the 29th of October. Follow the journey on social media @MartellNigeria, using the hashtags #MartellSwiftOnes and #BeTheStandoutSwift. 

About Martell

Founded in 1715 by Jean Martell, Maison Martell is one of the world’s oldest and leading international prestige cognac houses. The brand’s three-century legacy is built on a foundation of audacity, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for cultural connection. In Nigeria, Martell has been a prominent player since 2012, operating under Pernod Ricard Nigeria to create premium experiences that bring people together. With a strong presence in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, Martell continues to share its exceptional savoir-faire and celebrated spirits with connoisseurs across the country.

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard Nigeria is the local affiliate of Pernod Ricard, a global leader in the wine and spirits industry. Since its incorporation in 2012, the company has established a strong presence in the Nigerian market with a diverse portfolio of premium international brands, including Jameson Irish Whiskey, Martell Cognac, and Absolut Vodka. Rooted in the Group’s philosophy of ‘Convivialité,’ Pernod Ricard Nigeria is committed to creating genuine human connections and shared experiences, while also championing responsible drinking and sustainability.