Category: Business Day

Lagos hosted some of Africa’s most promising creative talents last week as the Création Africa Forum celebrated innovation across digital fashion, gaming, animation, and immersive technologies.

The three-day event, held from October 16 to 18 at the Federal Palace Hotel, recognised young creators whose work is reshaping the continent’s fast-growing cultural industries.

Backed by Globacom chairman, Mike Adenuga Jr., the forum’s prize categories highlighted Africa’s expanding creative economy, where art, technology, and entrepreneurship increasingly converge.

An initiative of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, curated by Maison des Mondes Africains (MansA), the Création Africa Forum promotes cross-continental collaboration and investment in digital innovation. This year’s edition-the first on African soil-brought together participants from more than 20 countries.

Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, said the collaboration with France is creating new opportunities for young Africans. ‘We are building meaningful pathways for our creatives to showcase their talents and build viable careers,’ she noted.

France’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, described the creative sector as ‘a driver of prosperity and mutual understanding between nations,’ pointing to its potential in trade and diplomacy.

One of the key sessions, ‘From Idea to Business: How to Put Creativity at the Heart of the Game,’ featured Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, who discussed the business case for creativity and its link to Africa’s digital transformation.

Globacom’s sponsorship underscores the importance of private sector engagement in scaling Africa’s creative economy, which is projected to exceed $15 billion in value by 2030. The forum also portrays how Lagos is evolving from a cultural hotspot into a regional hub for creative enterprise, where innovation, youth, and digital growth intersect.

Nigeria’s digital business landscape is witnessing steady transformation, and one of the startups powering that shift is Afri Invoice, a cloud-based e-invoicing and payment platform that is simplifying how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) get paid and stay compliant.

With the country’s digital economy expanding and policy frameworks like e-invoicing taking root, platforms like Afri Invoice are becoming indispensable in helping Nigerian SMEs streamline operations, stay compliant, and unlock faster cash flow.

Marking its second anniversary, Mark Odenore, founder of Afri Invoice, told BusinessDay that two years ago, the company sets out to solve one of the biggest challenges facing African entrepreneurs: slow payments and inefficient invoicing.

‘Today, we celebrate not just our anniversary, but the thousands of businesses that have grown with us and the future of digital commerce across the continent,’ Odenore stated.

Since its launch, Afri Invoice has processed tens of thousands of invoices across Nigeria, enabling faster payments for freelancers, SMEs, and large enterprises. Its technology integrates seamlessly with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) e-invoicing framework, ensuring that users remain compliant with Nigeria’s evolving tax and reporting standards, a critical concern for many small businesses transitioning to digital systems.

Odenore emphasised that the company’s mission extends beyond software delivery, adding that, ‘Afri Invoice believes that when businesses thrive, communities flourish. That is why we continue to invest in innovation, education, and outreach, ensuring that every entrepreneur, regardless of size or sector, has the tools to succeed in the digital economy.’

The startup’s platform offers a suite of financial tools tailored to local business needs. These include instant digital invoicing, automated payment tracking, multi-currency support, and advanced business analytics for smarter decision-making. With a mobile-first design optimised for Nigeria’s internet speeds and bank-grade security, Afri Invoice has become a trusted partner for businesses seeking both efficiency and compliance.

Its integration with FIRS’ e-invoicing system, a government initiative to modernise tax reporting, has also positioned Afri Invoice as a strategic ally for SMEs navigating the country’s regulatory landscape. By digitising invoices and payments, the platform reduces paperwork, minimises human error, and enhances transparency between businesses and their clients.

Marking its second anniversary, Afri Invoice has rolled out a nationwide raffle campaign worth over N5 million to reward loyal users and onboard new businesses into the country’s growing digital economy. The prizes, ranging from cash awards and laptops to solar generators and free legal and web services, are designed to encourage more entrepreneurs to digitize their operations and take advantage of e-invoicing tools built for local realities

Existing customers who have actively used Afri Invoice for at least six months are automatically entered, while new users can qualify by signing up before December 1, 2025. Winners, to be announced on June 3, 2026, will receive a range of rewards, including cash prizes between N100,000 and N1 million, solar generators, laptops, mobile phones, printers, and even free business website designs.

Odenore sees this initiative not just as a celebration, but as an invitation to entrepreneurs still managing manual invoicing and late payments to embrace modern financial technology.

As part of activities marking this year’s celebration of the Girl-child, teenager, Joy Ogah, took over the seat of Vice President Kashim Shettima, temporarily on Tuesday, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Shettima had invited Joy Ogah, to take over the seat of the Vice President for a day and address the nation.

Before the invitation, Shettima in his opening remarks, assured stakeholders and development partners, including PLAN International delegation led by Helen Mfonobong Idiong, the director of Programme, Quality and Innovation, of the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to promoting girl-child education across Nigeria.

He said among other government interventions in girl-child education, the school feeding programme remains essential.

He noted that studies have shown that well-nourished children are well-formed.

‘We will continue the engagement with PLAN International and see where the force and strength of government can be brought to bear on your solid advice on girl-child education,’ the Vice President told PLAN delegation.

‘In President Bola Tinubu, you have an ally you can believe in and invest your trust in,’ adding that the administration is passionate and deeply committed to advancing girl-child education.

The Vice President also described First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, as a symbol of how a properly empowered and supported girl-child can blossom into a great leader.

He recalled that when the First Lady served in the Nigerian Senate, she contributed actively to debates, especially those relating to girl-child education.

‘I want to assure you, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that this government is gender-friendly. We believe in inclusivity. We cannot disenfranchise half of our population and expect to grow as a nation,’ he stated.

The Vice President assured PLAN International that the administration’s doors are open for continuous engagement, adding that ‘the ladies on my team are the best people to engage.’

After his remarks, the Vice President invited Joy Ogah to take over his seat for a day, an opportunity she gladly accepted.

Speaking from the Vice President’s seat, Ogah expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent millions of Nigerian girls.

She noted that across Nigeria, 10.5 million children are out of school, with over 60 percent of them being girls.

Ogah emphasised that Nigerian girls can become leaders if the necessary interventions are implemented by relevant authorities and stakeholders.

She called on the government, policymakers, development partners, and citizens to act strategically in advancing girl-child education.

‘We must invest in education that is safe and inclusive for every child in Nigeria,’ she said.

Ogah also urged relevant authorities to enforce laws that protect the rights of every girl-child and highlighted the need to provide free sanitary products in schools, as well as ensure access to water, sanitation, and nutrition for the Nigerian child.

‘When girls are protected, peace becomes possible,’ she added.

‘I may be the Vice President for a day, but the struggles I represent cannot end in a day. They must continue in our policies, our classrooms, our conversations, and our budgets.’

According to her, every girl deserves a classroom, a choice, dignity, and not silence.

Ogah also extended her appreciated to the federal government, noting that the girl’s request had since been implemented following the passage and signing into law of the Tax Reforms Act.

Earlier, Idiong noted that girls around the world face crises, and Nigeria is no exception.

She explained that the organisation has provided interventions for over 11 million Nigerian children in areas such as education, entrepreneurship, and youth development.

‘We have been working across Nigeria to improve the lives of children,’ she said.

She recalled that in 2024, PLAN visited the Office of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, where a girl took over the Speaker’s seat for a day and called for the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on sanitary pads and diapers.

On behalf of PLAN International, she urged the government to continue ensuring that girls have access to education and that schools remain affordable for all.

Odiri Erewa-Meggison, director of corporate and regulatory affairs at British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) West and Central Africa, has been re-elected as chairman of the Manufacturing Association of Nigeria Export Group (MANEG).

MANEG, which is a key export advocacy body within the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), represents the collective interests of Nigerian manufacturers engaged in exports, promoting policies and initiatives that enhance non-oil exports, improve competitiveness, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

The re-election occurred at the association’s annual general meeting held in Lagos recently.

Erewa-Meggison expressed gratitude to members for the renewed mandate and pledged to consolidate on the Group’s achievements while championing innovative programmes to position Nigeria’s non-oil exports as a major contributor to sustainable national development. ‘It is with great honour and humility that I stand before you today, deeply grateful for the confidence you have once again placed in me. Together, we will continue to elevate MANEG, building on the solid foundation established by those who came before us, while driving new initiatives that strengthen our role as a leading voice in Nigeria’s export ecosystem,’ she said.

She reiterated MANEG’s vision of driving sustainable development and job creation, emphasising that non-oil exports remain a critical pathway for generating foreign exchange and creating meaningful employment for Nigeria’s young population.

Erewa-Meggison noted that under her leadership, the Group will intensify advocacy for proper administration of the Export Expansion Grant (EEG) to ensure fairness, transparency, and the clearance of outstanding claims.

She also noted that MANEG will continue its engagement with government stakeholders to shape policies that enhance the competitiveness of Made-in-Nigeria products and reduce operational costs for exporters. Similarly, she highlighted the need to strengthen cross-border trade relationships to facilitate smoother trade flows and improve access to regional and international markets.

Erewa-Meggison explained that MANEG would also assist its members in understanding and navigating opportunities within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), by identifying growth prospects, addressing challenges, and ensuring that Nigerian exporters are well-positioned to benefit from the continental trade framework.

With a track record of diverse accomplishments, her re-election marks another milestone in MANEG’s journey to champion Nigeria’s non-oil exports and ensure that the manufacturing sector remains globally competitive. Under her leadership, the manufacturing export association has strengthened its advocacy on export incentives, improved visibility for Nigerian exporters, and elevated the voice of manufacturers in policy discussions both nationally and across Africa.

Segun Ajayi-Kadir, director-general of MAN, during his speech, described the export group as a vital catalyst for Nigeria’s industrial growth, job creation, and foreign exchange stability.

He noted that export-led industrialisation remains pivotal to achieving sustainable development, as it promotes value addition, enhances local production capacity, and boosts competitiveness in global markets.

Ajayi-Kadir emphasised that with the right policy environment, including stable power supply, improved access to finance, and efficient logistics infrastructure, Nigeria’s manufacturing exporters can serve as a strong engine for inclusive economic growth and large-scale employment generation.

As part of the Global Care Month initiative, two orphanage homes in Lagos have received food supplies to provide support to vulnerable children and encourage communities to assist the less privileged.

The initiative, observed by Ford Motor Corporation, coordinated locally by Coscharis Motors, Ford’s representative in Nigeria, aims to promote community service and care for vulnerable groups across different countries.

The initiative, which also formed part of Ford’s annual ‘Food Caring Drive,’ mobilises its affiliates worldwide to provide food assistance to less privileged communities, and in Lagos, bags of rice were given to Heritage Home and Children Anchor Orphanage Home along the Lekki-Epe axis. Abiona Babarinde, general manager, marketing and corporate communications of Coscharis Group, said that the initiative reflects the growing expectation for companies to contribute to social good beyond profit-making.

‘As a representative of a brand like Ford in Nigeria, we are pleased to support these children with food items that can contribute to their well-being.

‘We are presenting bags of rice to the Orphanages, and in so doing, we are equally appreciating the caregivers for taking care of the children, who have been subjected to a new life for reasons beyond their control,’ Babarinde said. Jide Bankole, supervisor and caregiver at Children Anchor Orphanage Home, expressed appreciation to the Coscharis Ford team for the donation of food items.

‘This is heartwarming for the children, and we appreciate the support,’ Bankole said, noting that the home, which is registered with the government, relies on such contributions to meet the needs of the children in its care. Helen Nwoju, supervisor of Heritage Homes, also expressed gratitude for the donation, noting that the food items would help strengthen the home’s food supply and support the children’s nutrition.

‘Gestures like this remind us that our work is recognised and encourage us to keep doing our best for the children in our care,’ Nwoju said.

Coscharis Motors, which represents the Ford brand in Nigeria, and has been involved in community support activities as part of the annual Ford Global Caring initiative.

Nigeria’s House of Representatives has advanced a Bill seeking to amend the 1999 Constitution to compel the President to present annual budget estimates to a joint session of the National Assembly no later than the last working day of September each year.

The proposed amendment, sponsored by Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker and four other lawmakers, also mandates the submission of audited financial statements for the preceding three years alongside each new budget proposal.

The Bill aims to institutionalise fiscal discipline, enhance transparency, and promote development-focused budgeting at both federal and state levels.

Leading the debate on the general principles of the Bill, one of its co-sponsors, Nkemkanma Kama, said the proposal seeks to address recurring inefficiencies in Nigeria’s budgeting process, including delayed submissions, poor implementation, and weak alignment between appropriations and audited performance.

‘We have all witnessed the recurring challenges that plague the Nigerian budgeting system. From budgets being presented late and passed deep into the fiscal year, to Appropriation Acts that bear little resemblance to audited performance, to fragmented and non-transparent fiscal reporting at both the federal and state levels. This Bill offers a structural remedy by embedding discipline, transparency, and long-term vision into the Constitution to guide budget process at all levels of governance’, Kama said. The draft legislation, which contains four clauses, proposes amendments to Sections 81 and 121 of the 1999 Constitution (as ammended). It would, for the first time, provide a constitutional basis for the President to present the annual budget to a joint session of the National Assembly, as current law only permits separate presentations to each chamber.

In a bid to promote balanced and accountable spending, the Bill also prescribes that public expenditure be organised under five defined heads with specified minimum and maximum ratios: at least 30% for infrastructure, a minimum of 20% for human capital development, personnel costs capped at 15%, administrative overheads limited to 10%, and debt obligations not exceeding 25%.

It further requires preliminary expenditure accounts to accompany supplementary budgets, as well as five-year projections for infrastructure and human capital development. The same fiscal principles would apply to state governments.

Kama described the Bill as a ‘patriotic reform’ aimed at ensuring that Nigeria’s budget ‘works for Nigerians.’ He urged lawmakers to support its passage, saying it would lay ‘a permanent constitutional foundation for fiscal discipline, development-oriented spending, and transparent governance at all levels.’

‘It seeks to constitutionally reform the budgeting process, ensuring that our fiscal operations are timely, evidence-based, transparent, and directed towards genuine development outcomes’, he added.

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and partner organisations have appointed Inspired Evolution as the investment manager for Zafiri, a new decentralised renewable energy (DRE) equity investment vehicle targeting small-scale and decentralised renewable energy, to expand access to electricity and clean cooking solutions for tens of millions of people across sub-Saharan Africa.

Backed by an initial $300 million capitalisation by 2026, Zafiri is expected to scale up to $1 billion to accelerate energy access in Africa. It is structured as a permanent capital investment vehicle that provides long-term equity to expand clean energy access in underserved markets. The vehicle leverages concessional junior equity to de-risk private sector participation and mobilise commercial capital into scalable off-grid and decentralised energy solutions.

Zafiri addresses one of Africa’s toughest energy-financing gaps by channelling long-term equity into distributed renewable energy (DRE) companies that are essential to last-mile access yet remain underfinanced by mainstream capital markets. Zafiri’s founding partners include IFC, AfDB, The Rockefeller Foundation, Trade and Development Bank Group (TDB Group), and Nordic Development Fund (NDF). Inspired Evolution is an Africa-based investment firm focused on scaling clean energy and climate solutions across the continent. The company, founded in 2007 and headquartered in Cape Town, has financed more than 10 GW of renewable energy generation, supported 29 companies across 18 African countries, and manages over $850 million, including co-investments, through its suite of Evolution funds.

The appointment underscores Zafiri’s central role in Mission 300, a joint initiative of the World Bank Group and African Development Bank to provide first-time electricity access to 300 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.

‘One of the key challenges slowing Africa’s energy transition is the lack of equity financing for distributed energy companies-those expanding power generation and improving access for millions,’ said Ethiopis Tafara, IFC Vice President for Africa.

‘Zafiri addresses this ‘missing middle’ by offering long-term equity to these providers, helping scale innovative business models. IFC is proud to support this initiative, which is expected to reach 30 million people and spur job creation across the continent. Through our commitment to the M300 platform, we are deepening our support for impactful solutions like Zafiri. Inspired Evolution brings strong local investment expertise and a proven track record, making it a valuable partner for M300 in delivering development impact through the private sector.’ ‘By combining AfDB’s capital-including our Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA)-with IFC and partners, Zafiri will inject the much needed risk capital to take the DRE sector to the next level in terms of commercial maturity, larger operational footprint, and ultimately impact on the many communities beyond the grid,’ said Kevin Kariuki, the African Development Bank’s Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth.

‘We are honored to partner with IFC, AfDB and global investors to manage Zafiri, a vehicle uniquely designed to close the equity financing gap for distributed energy solutions across Africa,’ said Wayne Keast, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Inspired Evolution. ‘We will focus on building and scaling high-impact businesses that can deliver clean, affordable and reliable energy while driving inclusive and climate-resilient economic growth.’ Over its lifespan, Zafiri aims to facilitate new electricity connections and clean cooking access for more than 30 million people while supporting the growth of Africa’s DRE sector. Operations will commence in early 2026.

‘The Rockefeller Foundation is proud to support Inspired Evolution as it leverages its proven track record to accelerate energy access across Sub-Saharan Africa,’ said Ghita Benabderrazik, Director of Innovative Finance at The Rockefeller Foundation. ‘Following the announcement of our anticipated $10 million investment in Zafiri at the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit, we remain deeply committed to closing the equity gap for distributed renewable energy solutions that power livelihoods and drive productive use – advancing inclusive development, reducing poverty, and creating jobs.’

‘Complementing the debt support TDB Group has been deploying across several renewable energy sub-sectors in Africa, we are pleased to join forces with this strong group of investors to inject some much-needed equity into small-scale DRE providers – providers which, via electrification and clean cooking, can ultimately catalyse sustainable development in their communities,’ said Admassu Tadesse, TDB Group President and Managing Director.

‘Zafiri enables the speed and scale that is needed to meet the ambitious targets of Mission 300,’ said Satu Santala, NDF Managing Director. ‘NDF’s junior capital is expected to catalyse significant commercial investments into increasing energy access in Sub-Saharan Africa. At NDF, we are in full support to make Zafiri become a success and mobilise more private capital for climate action.’

Chukwuma Charles Soludo, Governor of Anambra State has declared that the ongoing governorship campaign has transformed into a unique movement powered by the people themselves.

Speaking passionately to a large crowd at a vibrant APGA rally in Awka South local government area, Soludo emphasized that this grassroots effort marks a departure from traditional political practices, where candidates typically paid individuals to attend rallies.

‘What you have seen so far, done by our government across sectors, is only the introduction,’ he stated, urging supporters to continue their momentum toward the upcoming elections.

The Governor extended his gratitude to the people of Awka South for their warm hospitality and support, affirming their significance in his campaign.

‘We have come as a team. Because we live in Awka South, we belong here,’ he said, spotlighting the unity and commitment of the community to the vision of a new Anambra one that is on the rise and gaining global recognition.

Governor Soludo reassured the audience that with their support in renewing his mandate over the next four years, saying he would transform the state.

He reflected on the successful campaign in 2021, expressing confidence that they aim to secure a win in all polling units come November, 8, 2025.

‘We are campaigning vigorously, not seeing our opponents as a threat, but we still campaigning as if we are the underdogs to an unknown opponent, working to earn every single vote,’ he declared.

With a target of winning in the 5,720 polling units, Governor Soludo stressed that Anambra is APGA land, and APGA is Anambra.

‘ He reiterated the importance of ensuring that the upcoming elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner, stating, that Anambra is a fortress- nobody can thwart their will.

‘ Addressing potential challenges, he warned those who might attempt to manipulate the election results: ‘We know how they want to come. We are waiting for them.’ The Governor reaffirmed his commitment to fully cooperate with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to make the Anambra governorship election a model for credibility and transparency, noting that training efforts are underway to empower citizens to understand the electoral process and ensure their votes are counted.

Additionally, Governor Soludo spoke on the issue of power rotation among the three senatorial districts of Anambra-North, South, and Central-indicating that power would shift to Anambra Central following his administration. He urged citizens not to exhibit voter apathy and to come out in full force to cast their votes, emphasizing the importance of every vote in shaping the future of the state.

The State Deputy Governor, Onyekachukwu Ibezim passionately rallied for support for Governor Soludo and the APGA party, emphasizing the transformative impact of their administration on the lives of the people, affirming that a renewed mandate would allow them to build on this foundation and further enhance the quality of life for all Anambra residents.

During the campaign rally, former National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Victor Oye, energetically endorsed Governor Soludo’s leadership, praising the significant strides made in Anambra State under his administration.

Oye emphasized the importance of unity among party members and urged supporters to remain steadfast as they approach the upcoming elections.

He expressed confidence that APGA would not only retain power in Anambra but also set a noteworthy example of good governance and progress, pointing out the need for every voter to actively participate in shaping the state’s future.

At the rally was Nonyelu, Jude Agumadu, Collins Ozojiofor, Paul Ebubechukwu, and Lady Ng?zi Okoye commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his significant contributions to infrastructural development, the provision of free antenatal care and delivery services, youth empowerment initiatives, and improvements in education.

They highlighted these efforts as pivotal in enhancing the quality of life for Anambra residents and urged the crowd to continue supporting the governor’s administration for further progress in the state.

Cheques amounting to 103,000,550,500 naira was presented to the Governor by the people as campaign support.

CWG Plc, a leading pan-African technology solutions provider, has been officially certified as a Great Place to organisation for 2025. This prestigious accreditation, awarded by the global authority on workplace culture, comes after a comprehensive assessment that included direct, anonymous feedback from employees and a rigorous culture audit.

The results were overwhelmingly positive, with an impressive 90% of CWG’s workforce affirming it as a great place to work, and validating CWG’s strategic investment in its human capital as the cornerstone of its success.

The Great Place to Work® survey revealed compelling data that underpins the certification, showing that 92% of employees feel management is approachable and easy to talk to, 89% believe they are treated well regardless of their position, and 87% feel welcomed when they join the company.

This high-trust environment is fuelled by CWG’s open-door policy and actionable feedback channels from which employee engagement initiatives are born. This co-creation model has directly shaped industry-leading welfare programs, comprehensive engagement activities, and robust training opportunities, ensuring the culture is built by all.

The Group Chief Executive Officer, CWG Plc, Adewale Adeyipo, stated: ‘This certification is a significant milestone in our strategic journey. It confirms that our most valuable asset is our people, and our greatest competitive advantage is our culture. At CWG, we have always believed that shared prosperity is the engine of sustainable growth. We are committed to doubling down on our investments in leadership development, digital empowerment, and well-being initiatives to ensure CWG remains the premier place to build a career in technology across Africa.’

This people-centric approach has yielded significant tangible benefits, including an average annual retention rate of 85%, significantly above the industry average, which demonstrates that employees choose to build their careers at CWG. The company’s holistic well-being programs include fully subsidised mental health support and therapy sessions, emergency support schemes, and flexible work arrangements, ensuring employees are supported in their health, finances, and family lives. Furthermore, CWG empowers its workforce through substantial investments in growth, including comprehensive learning and development plans for staff, full refunds for professional certifications, paid study leave, and more, all fostering a culture of continuous learning and ownership.

In a recent interview, the Group Chief Operating Officer, CWG Plc, Afolabi Sobande, added: ‘Operational excellence is impossible without an engaged and empowered team. This certification is a testament to the daily efforts of every individual at CWG who lives our values of Ownership and Initiative. The feedback from our employees is the most valuable operational data we receive. It directly informs how we streamline processes, enhance collaboration, and drive innovation. By listening to our people, we don’t just create a better place to work; we build a more agile, responsive, and successful business.’

Group Head, Human Resources and Admin, Tinu Adeyemi, concluded: ‘Our people have spoken, and we are deeply grateful for their endorsement. The stories of employee support, from personal crises to professional growth, are what truly define us. We have built a culture where employees feel seen, heard, and empowered to shape their workplace. This ‘people-first’ philosophy is our bedrock, and we will continue to innovate in how we support, develop, and celebrate every member of the CWG family.’

The Great Place to recognition enhances CWG Plc’s employer brand, solidifying its position as an employer of choice and a benchmark for organisational culture in the technology sector across Africa.

About CWG Plc:

CWG Plc is a leading technology solutions provider with a robust regional presence across Africa. With a workforce of over 300 employees, the company is dedicated to driving digital transformation and providing innovative technology solutions for businesses and individuals. For over three decades, CWG Plc has been at the forefront of the industry, empowering growth and connectivity across the continent.

Only in Nigeria can a government attempt the impossible-to ‘un-finalise’ what it has already finalised and to ‘un-pardon’ those it has already pardoned. It would be amusing if it weren’t a tragic reflection of how casually institutions now treat the constitutional process.

‘Nigeria’s current drama exposes an institutional discomfort with that word: accountability. Instead of admitting an error in judgement, officials are now trying to invent a phantom ‘finalisation’ stage to retroactively sanitise poor decisions.’

At the centre of this farce is the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), who chaired the Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy that recommended presidential pardons: a list that, astonishingly, included convicted murderers, kidnappers, and even a military officer who sold 7,000 weapons to enemies of the state. The President received, considered, and approved the recommendations. The Council of State endorsed them. The Federal Government issued an official statement defending its decision. In every legal and procedural sense, the process was complete. The list was finalised.

Then came public outrage and with it, an inexplicable reversal. The same Attorney-General who supervised the process suddenly declared that ‘the list hasn’t been finalised.’ That phrase might sound harmless, but it tears at the very fabric of institutional logic. What exactly remains to be ‘finalised’ after a committee chaired by the AGF has vetted, the President has approved, and the Council of State has endorsed? Has Nigeria quietly inserted a new, secret layer into its Constitution, a ‘post-finalisation’ stage that exists only when public backlash demands political retreat?

Section 175 of the 1999 Constitution is unambiguous. The President exercises the prerogative of mercy on the advice of the Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy (chaired by the AGF), subject to the endorsement of the Council of State. Once those steps are complete, implementation follows. There is no constitutional purgatory called ‘final review’. Any such language, surfacing only after public anger, looks less like legal prudence and more like political damage control.

Across mature democracies, the clemency process is serious business. In the United States, a presidential pardon, once signed and sealed, cannot be withdrawn without legal consequence. In South Africa, the Justice Minister’s advisory committee performs a similar role to Nigeria’s, but no official would dare claim, after gazette publication, that a pardon ‘isn’t final.’ Once an executive act is consummated, the only legitimate remedy for error is accountability, not creative reinterpretation.

Nigeria’s current drama exposes an institutional discomfort with that word: accountability. Instead of admitting an error in judgement, officials are now trying to invent a phantom ‘finalisation’ stage to retroactively sanitise poor decisions. But you cannot rewrite a constitutional conclusion because it offends public opinion. Governance by retraction is not governance at all; it is administrative theatre.

The absurdity deepens when symbolism meets history. Including Herbert Macaulay, the father of Nigerian nationalism, on the same list as convicted criminals was already a moral misstep. As Bode George aptly said, ‘Herbert Macaulay’s name must stand alone, not among those who broke the law, but among those who built the nation.’ That the government then tried to ‘un-finalise’ the pardon only after public uproar reveals both the lack of judgement in decision-making and the absence of institutional discipline in correction.

The Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy has one clear function: to advise, screen, and recommend. It is not empowered to retract or reinterpret once the process has been completed. The Attorney-General, as chair, bears ultimate responsibility for ensuring procedural integrity. To now claim ambiguity where the law provides clarity undermines both the office and public trust.

If there was an error in judgement, the remedy is not bureaucratic reinvention but moral clarity. Admit the error. Explain what went wrong. Correct it transparently. Governance is not about saving face; it is about saving credibility. The strength of a government is not measured by its ability to improvise under pressure but by its willingness to stand by principle, even in discomfort.

When a government begins to rewrite its own conclusion, it signals not correction but confusion. In governance, sequencing is everything and when you break your own sequence, you break public trust.