Category: Business Day

Afe Babalola and Co (Emmanuel Chambers), one of Nigeria’s foremost dispute resolution and corporate law firms, has unveiled a new office in Lagos as part of its strategic expansion across key commercial hubs in the country. Located 85 Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, the new office is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including meeting rooms, a conference hall, digital workstations, a research library, and client-centred spaces designed to foster collaboration and efficiency.

The firm, founded in 1965 by renowned jurist and legal luminary, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, said the Lagos office underscores its commitment to deepening access to high-quality legal services and nurturing the next generation of legal professionals.

Speaking at the official launch in Ikoyi, Mr. Tunde Babalola, SAN, Managing Partner (Lagos), said the firm’s expansion is both a response to Lagos’s growing demand for sophisticated legal expertise and an investment in developing young talent.

‘Lagos is not just Nigeria’s commercial capital; it is where business, finance, and law converge,’ Babalola said. ‘Our vision for the new office is not merely to establish a physical presence, but to create a centre of excellence where legal innovation meets practical solutions. We aim to serve not only as advocates in courtrooms, but as trusted advisers in boardrooms, arbitration halls, and every space where law drives enterprise and progress.’

With existing branches in Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan, the new Lagos office extends the firm’s reach into Nigeria’s busiest legal market where over half of the country’s corporate and commercial disputes are initiated. Also speaking at the ceremony, Honourable Justice Bode Rhodes-Vivour, JSC (Rtd), CFR, described the expansion as a reflection of the firm’s enduring legacy of excellence and a forward-looking vision for the legal profession.

‘This occasion is far more than the expansion of a law practice; it represents the continuation of a vision and a bold step in the pursuit of justice and excellence by Aare Afe Babalola, SAN,’ he said.

Notable guests included Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, Chief Judge of Ogun State; Mrs Uchenna Akingbade, Chairman, NBA Lagos Branch; Mrs Folashade Alli (SAN), Principal Partner at Folashade Alli and Associates; and several partners and alumni of Afe Babalola and Co.

For nearly six decades, Afe Babalola and Co has been a training ground for some of Nigeria’s most accomplished lawyers, judges, and public officers. The firm said the Lagos office will serve as a hub for arbitration, corporate advisory, and digital legal research, while providing young lawyers with exposure to complex commercial work and mentorship opportunities.

The federal government’s decision to remove mathematics as a compulsory subject for students seeking admission into tertiary institutions to study arts and humanities has sparked a wave of mixed reactions across Nigeria’s education sector.

The new policy, unveiled on Tuesday, was announced in a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education. According to the ministry, the reform, led by Maruf Tunji Alausa, minister of Education, is aimed at democratising access to higher education and empowering young Nigerians through inclusive and equitable learning opportunities.

Under the new National Guidelines for Entry Requirements into Nigerian Tertiary Institutions, English Language remains compulsory for all candidates, while mathematics will now only be required for those seeking admission into science, technology, and social science programmes.

The federal government explained that the policy would help expand access to tertiary education and enable the admission of an additional 250,000 to 300,000 students annually.

Alausa noted that the reform became necessary to correct what he described as ‘years of limited access’ that left many qualified candidates unable to gain admission despite their competence.

He pointed out that over two million candidates sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) annually but fewer than 700,000 secure admission into universities, polytechnics, and colleges.

‘This imbalance is not due to a lack of ability, but outdated and unnecessarily stringent entry requirements that must give way to fairness and opportunity,’ the minister stated.

Policy generates debate

However, the policy has generated debate among education stakeholders. While some hailed it as a long-overdue reform, others warned that it could have long-term consequences for Nigeria’s competitiveness in the digital age.

Samuel Odewumi, a transport and logistics expert at Lagos State University (LASU), cautioned against what he described as a ‘policy of convenience,’ arguing that mathematics remains fundamental to logical reasoning and digital literacy.

‘It’s better to have mathematics and not need it, than to need it later and not have it. Education reforms should not be rushed. Every decision we take today will have ripple effects in the next decade. Mathematics builds cognitive capacity, and its absence may weaken our students’ problem-solving foundation,’ Odewumi said.

He also faulted what he called ‘policy inconsistency’ in Nigeria’s education system, warning that frequent changes in admission requirements could destabilise academic planning and quality assurance.

On the other hand, Akase Ter, an educationist, described the policy as a relief for thousands of students with strong potential in the arts but were held back by mathematics. ‘It’s really a good decision because people are gifted differently. Not everyone is science-oriented. For decades, the compulsory mathematics policy denied many bright students the opportunity to further their education. This new direction gives them a second chance,’ he said.

Ter recalled that many students who struggled with mathematics either abandoned their academic dreams or switched to other interests, despite excelling in subjects like literature, Christian Religious Knowledge, and history.

On X (formerly Twitter), users also expressed opinions about the new policy.

Adeolu (@_astalavi) argued that the decision could worsen students’ disinterest in numeracy.

‘Whether we like it or not, arithmetic is a part of our day-to-day activity. Not making it mandatory now will only make the arts students that people perceive to be lazy relax even more, and affect their basic numerical knowledge,’ he said.

Adewale (@SoEdunOkanESita) strongly opposed the reform, warning that it could harm the country’s educational foundation.

‘Everyone who cares about Nigeria must prevail on Tunji Alausa to immediately reverse the poor decision to remove Mathematics for arts students. His overzealousness will destroy Nigeria. Education is the pillar that holds a country,’ he wrote.

Adewale added that the policy overlooks the realities of the job market.

‘After graduation, the labour market doesn’t care if you are an arts, sciences, or social science graduate. Everyone will write the same aptitude tests for employment, which include mathematics, logic, quantitative and verbal reasoning. How those in government think is absurd.’

Echoing similar sentiments, Olufemi Oluwole (@MinOlufemi) questioned the logic behind the change.

‘What is the positive effect of taking out Mathematics from the arts department? The contents of this subject at the secondary school level are basic. There’s no problem being solved – we are only making more lazy students,’ he said.

Donald Angbas (@orame50) also disagreed with the reform, stating that every student pursuing tertiary education should have at least a basic pass in mathematics and English.

‘C6 is just 45-50%. Every student going for tertiary education should be able to have that in English and Mathematics,’ he tweeted.

Not all reactions were negative, however. Tosin Balogun (@tosi_tosin) welcomed the development, calling it a ‘very good decision.’

The Moroccan Ambassador to Nigeria, Moha Tagma, says Morocco is a new destination for investment and a proud partner to Nigeria.

Tagma communicated this when he paid a condolence visit to Tein Jack-Rich, President of Belemaoil Group, on Wednesday in his Abuja residence.

The visit was to commiserate with Jack-Rich on the passing of his uncle, Dr Harrison Tiger.

Tagma expressed his deepest sympathies to Jack-Rich, describing him as a friend, philanthropist, and partner who deserves support and attention from good friends and allies.

Having spent the last eight years in Nigeria, Tagma highlighted the strong bond between Morocco and Nigeria, particularly in the economic sector. ‘Morocco is a new destination for investment, and we are proud to be a great partner to Nigeria.

‘All Nigerians want to do business with the Moroccans, and we look forward to continuing our fruitful collaboration,’ he said

Tagma said that Morocco had signed an agreement to form the Nigeria/Morocco Friendship Group, underscoring Nigeria’s deep interest in fostering a robust relationship with Morocco.

The condolence visit from the Moroccan envoy was one of many received by Jack-Rich from prominent Nigerians, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

Jack-Rich expressed his happiness for the condolence visit and described Tagma as a good friend.

He emphasised on the importance of African partnership and intra-African trade for economic growth. ‘Africa must partner with itself, trade with itself to grow the African soil economically.’

Jack-Rich urged Nigerian leaders to put aside their party differences and work together for the economic growth of the nation.

‘Our leaders must work together, irrespective of party differences, to drive economic growth and development.

‘This call for collective action highlights the need for Nigerian leaders to prioritise the country’s economic development,’ he said.

The Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia to Nigeria, Mohsen Antit, has pledged his country’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with Nigeria to boost trade and enhance revenue generation.

Antit made the commitment during the Ndigboamaka Progressive Markets Association All Markets Conference 2025, held in Lagos on Wednesday, with the theme ‘Empowering Trade Unions for Revenue Generation and Modernisation’.

He said Tunisia was ready to partner with the Nigerian government across key sectors such as agriculture, banking and finance, mining, oil and gas, aviation, and security to advance mutual prosperity.

Antit said, ‘Tunisia will be eager to open discussions to collaborate in these areas.

‘I reiterate Tunisia’s commitment to deepening ties with Nigeria and with the Ndigboamaka organisation through trade, culture, education, and people-to-people connections.’

He praised the nation’s entrepreneurial spirit and rich cultural heritage, noting that the Ndigboamaka Progressive Markets Association represents over 50 major markets and embodies the dynamism of Nigerian commerce.

Antit commended the association for empowering traders and driving business growth, adding that collaboration with Tunisia would create opportunities for capacity building and trade diversification.

The envoy also expressed interest in expanding investment partnerships in manufacturing, energy, medical services, and tourism, stating that Tunisia ranked among the world’s top 20 tourism destinations ahead of Morocco and Egypt, and just behind Spain and Greece.

In his remarks, the President of Ndigboamaka Progressive Markets Association, Chief Chinedu Ukatu, said the conference symbolised the collective strength and resilience of traders across Nigeria.

Ukatu acknowledged the rapid changes in the global economy and emphasised the need for modernisation and digital transformation to promote ease of doing business.

He urged members of the association to remain united and determined in pursuing their goals, adding that solidarity among traders was key to sustaining growth and protecting their collective interests.

Ukatu further called on the government to engage traders in policy formulation to create a more conducive business environment and ensure equitable distribution of economic benefits.

Also speaking, the former Deputy Governor of Anambra State and Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Emeka Sibeudu, urged the association to work toward making South-East markets more competitive to enhance Nigeria’s overall economic growth.

Sibeudu commended Lagos-based traders and exporters for their significant contributions to both Lagos State’s economy and Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

He encouraged them to extend their investments to the South-East to promote inclusive development.

The Deputy President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Prince Okey Nwadinobi, also commended the Ndigboamaka association for uniting traders under one platform.

He advised members to be law-abiding and to respect community norms to avoid conflict and property damage.

Chief Executive Officer of Chisco Group, Chief Chidi Anyaegbu, called on the government to view traders as partners in national development, describing them as the real drivers of the Nigerian economy.

Anyaegbu urged the government to adopt dialogue in addressing issues affecting traders instead of enforcing punitive taxation policies.

Anyaegbu also advised traders to cooperate with government initiatives aimed at national progress.

He commended the association for recognising his contributions to commerce, saying the honour would inspire him to continue supporting trade growth and compliance with lawful business practices.

At the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) annual meetings holding in Washington DC, United States, Nigeria has joined other Commonwealth Nations to explore strategies aimed at strengthening economic resilience and driving sustainable development among member countries.

Temvert Empowerment Foundation, one of the United Nations’ partners on children and youths empowerment was at the World Bank/IMF Meeting in Washington DC, where it attended sessions that captured issues of economic outlook, poverty eradication, climate change, and aid effectiveness. Speaking through its founder and civil society leader, Temitayo Olatunde, at one of the sessions, Temvert Empowerment Foundation emphasised the importance of involving grassroots organisations in global decision-making and dialogue, especially on areas that align with non-governmental organisations’ objectives

‘Being here at the World Bank IMF Annual Meetings goes beyond participation; it is about advocating for sustainable development and judicious use of aid given to countries,’ he said.

The Temvert boss further emphasised that the World Bank and IMF need to be closer to the grassroots organisations to chart ways for social development, adding, ‘At one of the sessions, we discussed policies that can alleviate poverty, ensure food security, and boost economic resilience.’ Olatunde stated that ‘this is the mission of his organisation that has impacted thousands of Nigerians through scholarship schemes, distribution of school materials, youth empowerment, among others. ‘

He noted that his organisation participated at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York and also hosted a side event at the 2025 ECOSOC Youths Forum.

Muhammed Manga, Director of Information and Public Affairs of the Ministry of Finance on the sidelines of the meeting, event had reportedly said the meeting brought together finance ministers from Commonwealth nations to discuss ways to deepen cooperation and unlock new opportunities for shared prosperity. Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of State Finance, who represented Nigeria at the meeting holding from Monday to Saturday, called for increased funding to support the bloc’s development agenda, particularly programmes aimed at lifting millions of people out of poverty and enhancing infrastructure across member states.

‘The Commonwealth remains a critical platform for collaboration among nations with shared history and values,’ Uzoka-Anite noted.

As Nigeria joined the rest of the world to commemorate the International White Cane Day, the Nigeria Association of the Blind (NAB) has called on the federal government, particularly the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), to urgently close open manholes and create more job opportunities for persons with visual impairments.

Speaking during a road walk and awareness campaign in Abuja, Stanley Onyebuchi, President of the association, decried the dangers open manholes pose to blind persons in the nation’s capital, describing them as ‘silent death traps.’

‘Even today, as we held our procession, volunteers had to block the open holes to prevent our members from falling into them. We are appealing to the FCT Minister to close these holes immediately. They endanger our lives every time we attempt to move around independently,’ Onyebuchi said.

Onyebuchi explained that the International White Cane Day, marked every 15th of October, is dedicated to celebrating the independence, safety, and dignity of persons with visual impairments worldwide. He emphasised that while the white cane symbolises independence, the current state of road infrastructure in Abuja limits that freedom.

‘We have many educated, skilled, and talented members who remain unemployed. We urge the government to employ qualified persons with visual impairments and provide empowerment opportunities for our members who have acquired various skills,’ he said. He also called for scholarships for visually impaired students and the allocation of land in Abuja for the construction of a national secretariat for the Association, a facility he said is long overdue. ‘In the entire West Africa, Nigeria is the only country where the Association of the Blind does not have a national secretariat. We have written to the FCT Minister several times with no response. We have partners willing to help us develop the land if the government provides it,’ he added.

Sports broadcasting in Nigeria is not just about airing matches, it is a booming multibillion-naira industry powered by the electric energy of football, athletics, and other fan-favorite events. From local stations to global streaming platforms, the sector fuels advertising revenue, sponsorship deals, and cultural influence across the continent. But behind the glitz and goals lies a tightly regulated legal terrain that every player in the game broadcasters, content aggregators, advertisers, and tech platforms must navigate with precision.

Whether you are streaming live from the pitch or monetizing highlight reels, staying compliant is not optional its the difference between scoring big and getting benched. This article breaks down the legal playbook with a practical compliance checklist, spotlighting the key laws, regulators, and obligations that shape Nigeria’s sports broadcasting ecosystem.

2.0. Key Laws and Regulations Governing Sports Broadcasting in Nigeria.

Sports broadcasting rights also called media rights are the legal permissions granted to a broadcaster to air sporting events. These rights are a form of intellectual property and are often sold or licensed for huge sums, especially for popular events like football matches. For example, SuperSport holds the rights to broadcast English Premier League (EPL) matches across Sub-Saharan Africa. Nigerian broadcasters must negotiate sublicensing agreements or risk violating copyright laws. Unauthorized streaming or rebroadcasting can lead to legal action and fines.

In Nigeria, sport broadcasting is governed by several laws. At the foundation of regulation is the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended 2023). The constitutional framework provides an important balance between commercial rights and press freedom. The Constitution guarantees that ‘every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference ‘. It also provides that ‘every person shall be entitled to own, establish and operate any medium for the dissemination of information, ideas and opinions. ‘ However, reasonable restrictions in the interest of public safety, public health, among others are permitted setting the foundational legality of broadcasting.

The Nigeria Copyright Act 2022 also plays a significant in regulating sports broadcasting. It recognizes broadcasting rights as a form of intellectual property. Under the Copyright Act (the Act), copyright is conferred on a work which is a broadcast transmitted from Nigeria or by a broadcasting organisation that has its headquarters situated in Nigeria . However, the Act preserves fair dealings exceptions in cases where the reproduction of a work under the direction or control of a broadcasting organisation is a lawful broadcast done without infringing the copyright in the work . Also, this Act makes extensive provisions for broadcasting organisations to report illegal broadcasting websites to the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) so that they may be taken down.

One of the most important regulations is the Nigerian Broadcasting Code, regulated by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) under the National Broadcasting Commission Act 1992. In June 2020, NBC issued amendments to the sixth edition of the Code, introducing major reforms on anti-competition, sporting rights, local content, online broadcasting, and advertising. Notably, the Amendment prohibits exclusivity in sporting rights and mandates that broadcasters sublicence live foreign sports events on fair terms . The NBC Code amendments required broadcasters airing prime foreign sports to invest 30% of rights’ costs in local sports and advertisers to balance exposure between foreign and local events. They strengthened local content rules by mandating Nigerian directors, producers, and at least 75% Nigerian participation in productions, and extended NBC oversight to online platforms like Netflix and IrokoTV. Broadcasters were also required to suspend campaigns for clients who defaulted after 60 days. These provisions, especially those on exclusivity and sublicensing, drew criticism for violating constitutional property rights, the Copyright Act, and international treaties. In Femi Davies v. National Broadcasting Commission , the Federal High Court addressed the validity of NBC’s restrictions on exclusive broadcast rights, ultimately ruling that the Commission lacked such authority and affirming exclusivity as a legitimate investment protected under copyright and contract law. By granting a perpetual injunction, the Court restored certainty for broadcasters while underscoring the balance regulators must strike between public access and commercial interests.

Other important regulations to note are The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018 regulates competition in sports broadcasting by curbing monopolistic exclusive rights and empowering the FCCPC to sanction anti-competitive contracts. The Cybercrimes Act 2015 complements this by prohibiting digital piracy and unlawful rebroadcasting, highlighting the need for strong digital rights management.

4.0. Compliance Checklist for Businesses in Sports Broadcasting

Given that the sports broadcasting industry in Nigeria is regulated by a complex legal framework, stakeholders must pay close attention to compliance at every stage of their operations, from licensing and content acquisition to advertising and fair competition. Non-compliance carries significant risks, including regulatory sanctions, financial penalties, and reputational damage. To guide businesses in navigating these requirements, the following checklist highlights key areas for compliance.

4.1. Corporate and Licensing

a. All broadcasting entities must be duly incorporated with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and maintain statutory registers in compliance with the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020.

b. Following incorporation, all broadcasting entities must obtain the appropriate licence from the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to legally operate within Nigeria. This includes terrestrial, satellite, cable, and digital platforms. For Over-the-Top (OTT) and streaming services, operators are required to either register with or formally notify the NBC, depending on the nature of their service . In addition, they must demonstrate adherence to local content requirements such as ensuring a minimum quota of Nigerian-produced programming, promoting indigenous language content where applicable, Supporting the development of local creative industries, proactive engagement with the NBC and transparent documentation of compliance efforts are essential to avoid regulatory delays and ensure smooth market entry or continued operation.

c. Keep proof of all filings, renewals, and approvals, as failure to maintain proper licensing records can attract NBC sanctions.

4.2. Rights Acquisition and Contracts

a. Before entering into any broadcasting rights agreement, stakeholders must conduct full due diligence to avoid legal disputes and ensure the integrity of the content acquisition process.

b. Contracts involving broadcasting rights should include clear and enforceable sublicensing clauses. These must reflect Nigerian case law that recognises and protects exclusive rights, while also anticipating potential regulatory intervention by bodies such as the NBC.

c. Ensure all contracts to comply with the Copyright Act 2022, especially with respect to digital rights, streaming, highlights, and social media use.

d. Include warranties, indemnities, and compliance clauses that cover NBC, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), FCCPC, and NDPA regulations.

4.3. Advertising and Sponsorshipa. Before airing any advertisements directed at Nigerian audiences, broadcasters must secure approval from ARCON before airing any adverts targeting Nigerian audiences. Maintain records of all approvals.

b. Ensure advertising partnerships and sponsorship agreements comply with ARCON standards on truthful claims, local content, and payment obligations.

c. Implement internal controls to suspend advertising for clients who default on payments, in line with NBC/ARCON directives.

4.4. Local Content and Production

a. Broadcasters must meet the National Broadcasting Commission’s local content requirements by involving Nigerian producers, directors, and ensuring that at least 75% of production participants are Nigerian nationals.

b. When acquiring foreign sports broadcasting rights, operators should maintain clear documentation of investments in local sports programming. This remains a best practice for regulatory goodwill even though enforcement under the 2020 Amendment has been judicially limited.

4.5. Competition and Fair Trade

a. Ensure operations comply with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA), avoiding practices that may be construed as market allocation, tying, or abuse of dominance.

b. Before any merger, acquisition, or rights aggregation, assess whether the transaction meets FCCPC notification thresholds and seek clearance to avoid ‘gun-jumping’ penalties.

4.6. Data Protection and Consumer Privacy

a. Comply with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA 2023) when processing subscriber data. Maintain a data register, privacy notice, and lawful basis for processing.

b. Include data protection clauses in contracts with vendors, streaming platforms, and payment processors, and appoint a Data Protection Officer where applicable.

4.7. Recordkeeping and Dispute Management

a. Maintain detailed records of sublicensing offers, advertising approvals, programming logs, and compliance registers for at least seven years.

b. Incorporate alternative dispute resolution (ADR) clauses in contracts. Given recent rulings limiting NBC’s powers, ensure arbitration or dispute resolution mechanisms align with enforceable legal standards.

Conclusion

The sports broadcasting industry in Nigeria is shaped by a strict legal and regulatory framework that balances commercial goals with consumer protection and competition principles. To succeed, businesses must embed strong compliance systems that respond to changing regulations and judicial trends. Following the compliance checklist and engaging proactively with regulators helps new and existing operators reduce legal risks, safeguard investments, and support a sustainable sports broadcasting sector.

Christian Aniukwu is the Managing Partner at Stren and Blan Partners and supervises the firm’s Technology, Entertainment, Media and Sports (TEMS) Sector. Omonefe Irabor-Benson is a Senior Associate, while Stanley Umezuruike and Rebecca Sojinu are Associates in the TEMS Sector.

A cross-section of professionals under The Covenant Nation (TCN) has called for a renewed commitment to integrity, mentorship, and value-driven leadership as essential tools for rebuilding Nigeria’s social and economic structures.

Speaking at a roundtable themed ‘Regaining the Soul of the Marketplace’ held in Abuja, members of the church’s Corporate Executive Connect Group emphasised that the country’s transformation requires men and women of character who will uphold honesty and values in both public and private sectors.

Abimbola Uloko, Chief Executive Officer of SAB Africa, an event management and creative company, said mentorship and integrity remain critical to raising responsible citizens.

‘We need to make deliberate efforts in identifying people who walk in integrity and use them as templates for others to emulate. There are still Nigerians focused on their God-given purpose, and their stories should be told to inspire others,’ she said.

Uloko added that through SAB Africa, she has mentored over 20 young people in event management and creative projects. ‘We are intentional about raising young people who will stand for excellence and creativity. Some of them have gone on to pursue master’s degrees after years of training with us,’ she noted.

Explaining the vision behind the initiative, Victor Dickson, head, connect group, said the forum emerged from the desire of Pastor Poju Oyemade, Senior Pastor of The Covenant Nation, to take Christian values beyond the church walls into the marketplace.

‘Christianity should not only happen within the church. It must influence how we conduct business, govern, and relate in society. The idea is to build a community of professionals across sectors-agriculture, business, creative industries-who will take integrity and excellence to their workplaces,’ he stated.

He added that the discussion was not limited to church members alone but open to all professionals who share the vision of nation building. ‘Our message is simple: good Nigerians will build a good Nigeria. We must bring honesty, values, and humanity to the table if the country must progress. Dickson reiterated that the essence of the meeting was to produce refined Nigerians who embody integrity and accountability.

‘We’re not just waiting for government to fix the nation. Our focus is on raising good Nigerians who will, in turn, build a good Nigeria,’ he said.

Moradeke Okunrinboye, of the organizing team, emphasised the need for sustainability and unity within the church and the business community. ‘The way we have done things in the past cannot continue. We must begin to think long-term and collaborate for the future. The church must also lead by example by fostering partnerships and unity,’ she said.

Okunrinboye noted that Christians should not isolate themselves from industries often considered secular but should instead bring light and ethical standards into those spaces. ‘There shouldn’t be off-limit businesses for Christians. Our role is to show how things should be done rightly, regardless of the industry,’ she added.

The meeting also featured discussions on national values, mentorship structures, youth inclusion, and the role of faith-based organisations in shaping responsible citizens ahead of future elections.

Similarly, David Opeyemi, a member of the TCN Corporate Executives, said the group is strategically curating platforms that mentor the next generation of reformers who will redefine business and governance in Nigeria.

‘Beyond Sunday sermons, we are democratizing the mindset of integrity among professionals and young people. By intentionally curating the next generation of leaders who operate by Christian values, we believe change and transformation are possible,’ he explained.

Opeyemi stressed that the church is youth-focused, with structures such as Kingdom Connect and Covenant Connect actively engaging young Nigerians. ‘We are not just building for the youth but building with them. The goal is to raise reformers who can reimagine a better Nigeria and Africa,’ he added.

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has found that Nnamdi Kanu is medically fit to stand trial.

This follows a September 26 order by Justice James Omotosho, directing the NMA president to form a panel to evaluate Kanu’s health.

The order was issued after an application seeking Kanu’s transfer from the Department of State Services (DSS) custody to the National Hospital in Abuja for treatment.

Kanu had claimed his health was deteriorating in detention, citing medical reports indicating liver and pancreatic issues, a lump under his arm, and low potassium levels.

The prosecution opposed the application, maintaining that the government had provided adequate medical care.

At Thursday’s court prosecuting, Adegboyega Awomolo, prosecuting counsel said the NMA’s report was submitted on October 13 and had been served on the defence. Kanu’s counsel, Kanu Agabi, confirmed receipt. The report, read in court, concluded that Kanu is fit for trial. With no objections from either side, Justice Omotosho accepted the findings and ruled that proceedings could continue.

He announced that six consecutive dates would be set for Kanu to present and conclude his defence. Agabi requested that Kanu be brought to court for a private consultation with his legal team, citing concerns over possible surveillance by the DSS.

The judge granted the request and scheduled the meeting for Wednesday, October 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Atalanta coach Ivan Juric has urged Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman to maintain a positive attitude and refocus on his performances after his failed summer transfer to Inter Milan.

Lookman reportedly refused to train during pre-season after Atalanta rejected a pound 40 million offer, plus add-ons, from Inter, insisting the club valued him closer to pound 50 million.

With no club meeting that valuation, the 27-year-old was later reintegrated into the squad, though Juric admitted Lookman’s attitude had initially been poor. Following his return from international duty with Nigeria in their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho, Juric hopes to see continued improvement from the forward.

‘I hope that he will return from international duty with the same attitude I saw in the last two or three weeks, where I had no complaints,’ Juric told Sport Mediaset. ‘It was a great attitude, really positive, and I want to make up for the time we lost over the summer. He is not yet at his best, but I hope to see the right spirit from him.’

Juric acknowledged that Atalanta’s attacking options have been limited by the absence of both Lookman and injured Italy striker Gianluca Scamacca.

‘Lookman was named African Player of the Year, so that says it all. The other day, he played in an unfamiliar role but still showed good things; he was only missing a goal,’ Juric added.

The coach, who succeeded Gian Piero Gasperini after nine years in charge, also confirmed that Scamacca, Nicola Zalewski, and Giorgio Scalvini are back in contention.