Category: Business Day

President Bola Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Geoffrey Nnaji, the minister of innovation, science, and technology, following allegations of certificate forgery against him.

President Tinubu appointed Nnaji in August 2023.

He resigned Tuesday in a letter thanking the President for allowing him to serve Nigeria,Bayo Onanuga, the special adviser to the president, said in a statement.

Nnaji said he has been a target of blackmail by political opponents.

President Tinubu thanked him for his service and wished him well in future endeavours.

The controversy over Nnaji’s certificate began in July 2023 when he was included among the first batch of ministerial nominees. The authenticity of his academic and NYSC certificates were questioned, after claims emerged that he never completed his university education.

An investigation by Premium Times concluded that both the bachelor’s degree and NYSC discharge certificate submitted by the minister were forgeries. Until recently, Nnaji had not publicly responded to the allegations. But new court documents have now revealed his side and his own statements confirm that he never received a certificate from UNN.

Nnaji said in an affidavit that he was admitted to study Microbiology/Biochemistry in 1981 and that he completed the programme in 1985. In the same document, he noted that he had not been issued a certificate, blaming ‘the non-cooperative attitude’ of UNN officials for his inability to collect it.

He cited a letter issued by the university in December 2023 to People’s Gazette, confirming that he was indeed a student who ‘graduated’ in 1985 with a Second Class (Lower Division) degree. However, this letter did not include or represent an actual certificate and his court filing indirectly confirmed that he does not possess one.

By admitting that the university never issued him a certificate, Nnaji has, in essence, validated the claims of forgery earlier made against him.

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s health sector have called on the Nigerian government to stop treating healthcare as a mere expenditure, and instead recognise it as a critical investment that drives economic productivity and human capital development.

Speaking at breakout session on ‘The Health Productivity Link: Building a Resilient Workforce’, at the Nigeria Economic Summit (NES), on monday, in Abuja, health and private sector leaders stressed that shifting the perception of healthcare from a cost to an investment would unlock greater economic potential, especially through collaboration with the private sector. They noted that the $1trn economy target is threatened if healthcare is not prooritised.

Tinuola Akinbolagbe, CEO of the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN), stressed that health should be seen as a strategic investment, not a financial burden.

‘We must stop treating health as a cost. Health is an investment that drives productivity. The private sector has a vital role to play, whether in financing or innovation,’ she said.

She referenced the Coalition Against COVID-19 (CACOVID), which raised approximately ?39 billion during the pandemic, describing it as the largest pool of funding mobilised for health in the country’s history.

‘We are now considering the most effective ways to invest that money. Technology should be a key driver, and we need to bring together all stakeholders across sectors.’

She added that National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) should drive investment, highlighting that the global insurance industry is one of the largest sectors and could be a major avenue for attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) into Nigeria’s health system.

Brian Deaver, CEO of the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE), urged the government to invest more in local manufacturing. He recalled that Afreximbank has announced a $1 billion fund for local manufacturers, yet only $75 million has been accessed so far.

He said the fund represents a huge opportunity for Nigeria.

Deaver, also underscored the importance of data-driven decision-making in health, stating that investing in data is essential to improve health outcomes and guide strategic planning.

In his remarks, Kelechi Ohiri, director-general of the NHIA, revealed that while progress is being made in expanding health insurance coverage, challenges remain.

‘We’ve added four million Nigerians to the insurance scheme in the last two years, which is the fastest increase so far. But it’s still a long journey when compared to a population of over 200 million,’ he said.

He cited the informal sector as a major hurdle due to its fragmented nature, making it difficult to bring workers under the health insurance umbrella.

Khalilu Muhammad, senior officer for Health Systems Strengthening Delivery at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, called for more government efficiency in catalysing private sector participation.

‘In a country of over 200 million people, it’s impossible to stimulate economic growth without addressing the foundational issues in healthcare,’ Muhammad said.

Stakeholders stressed thay without public financing, Nigeria cannot build foundation for human capital.

Nigeria is positioning its agriculture sector for a decade-long transformation as it adopts the Kampala Declaration on Agriculture and Food Security (2026-2036) – a continental framework designed to drive sustainable food production, agro-industrialization, and regional trade growth.

Abubakar Kyari, minister of agriculture and food security, announced the development during the Community of Practice Summit on the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), themed ‘From Kampala to Abuja: Transforming Agrifood Systems in Nigeria,’ held in Abuja on Monday.

Kyari said the declaration would strengthen Nigeria’s agrifood systems by promoting climate-smart innovations, enhancing value chains, and reducing post-harvest losses that currently cost the country over ?3.5 trillion annually.

‘We must move beyond business-as-usual approaches and embrace bold reforms that make our food systems more productive, resilient, inclusive, and sustainable,’ the minister stated.

Kyari revealed that the Federal Government has already committed $538.05 million – in partnership with private investors – to establish Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZs) in Kaduna, Cross River, and Ogun States, with additional zones in the pipeline.

The initiative, he said, is expected to attract up to $1 billion in additional private sector investment by 2027, while creating jobs, strengthening local manufacturing, and expanding export potential for agro-products.

‘The SAPZs will serve as industrial hubs that promote value addition, enhance productivity, and boost farmers’ income,’ Kyari explained.

He also highlighted the Nigeria Postharvest Systems Transformation Programme (NiPHaST), a multi-stakeholder initiative aimed at minimizing storage losses, improving logistics, and optimizing value chains to enhance food security and profitability.

‘Our investment drive will create a more efficient, sustainable, and equitable food system – one that contributes directly to economic growth and livelihood improvement,’ he said.

The minister emphasized the importance of collaboration between federal and state governments to maximize investment impact and ensure long-term sustainability.

‘Synergy between all tiers of government is indispensable for achieving sustainable food security and the transformation envisioned by the Kampala Declaration,’ Kyari said, urging state commissioners of agriculture and rural development to align with national priorities and CAADP frameworks.

He added that the ministry had established an Agricultural Sector Working Group to serve as a governance mechanism, bringing together research institutions, private sector players, and civil society organizations to scale up best practices, monitor progress, and ensure accountability.

Marcus Ogunbiyi, permanent secretary, to the ministry, said the CAADP framework has already delivered tangible outcomes across Africa by aligning national agricultural policies with regional priorities.

Also speaking, Karen Yansen, head of German Cooperation, described the Kampala Declaration as ‘an evidence-based and inclusive framework that strengthens governance and promotes equity across Africa’s food systems.’

The summit brought together representatives from the Ministry of Livestock Development, German Development Cooperation (GIZ), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and State Commissioners of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries to explore strategies for scaling up investments in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

With the new commitments under the Kampala Declaration, Nigeria aims to reposition agriculture as a key driver of industrialization, job creation, and export diversification, strengthening its food system and contributing to Africa’s broader economic transformation agenda.

British microcomputers and other foreign-made components have been found in Russian missiles and drones used in recent deadly strikes on Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed, renewing calls for tougher international sanctions on Moscow.

In a post on social media on Monday, Zelensky said investigators identified parts from allied countries – including the United Kingdom, United States, Germany, Japan, and South Korea – in weapons fired during Sunday’s massive assault, which killed several civilians in western Ukraine.

‘Nearly 100,688 foreign-made parts were in the launched attack drones, about 1,500 in Iskanders, 192 in Kinzhal missiles, and 405 in Kalibrs,’ he said. ‘Microcomputers for drone flight control are produced in the United Kingdom.’

The Ukrainian president described the discovery as evidence that Russia continues to access Western technology despite two years of sweeping trade restrictions and export bans. He urged allies to ‘shut down every scheme that circumvents sanctions’, warning that companies and countries that allow loopholes to persist were indirectly enabling Moscow’s war machine.

Ukraine has shared detailed information on each identified company and product with its partners, Zelensky added.

British and American components identified

According to Zelensky, US companies supply converters for Russia’s Kh-101 cruise missiles and Shahed-type drones, sensors for unmanned aerial vehicles, and microelectronics used in missiles. British firms, he said, have been linked to the production of microcomputers used to guide drones.

The revelation is significant given the leading role both Washington and London have played in supporting Ukraine’s defence effort, providing weapons, intelligence, and billions in financial aid since the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022.

The United Kingdom’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT) said it was taking the allegations ‘incredibly seriously’, stressing that it had already banned the export of thousands of goods to Russia, including all items that Ukraine had flagged as being used on the battlefield.

‘We take reports of goods from UK companies being found in Russian weaponry incredibly seriously,’ a government spokesperson said. ‘Any person or firm that does not comply with sanctions could face large financial penalties or criminal prosecution.’

More than £20bn ($26.9bn) of UK trade with Russia is now under sanction, the department said.

Despite some of the harshest sanctions in modern history, Russia has managed to maintain and even expand parts of its military production, often through complex supply chains and third-party intermediaries in countries not participating in Western sanctions.

Russia has become the most-sanctioned nation in the world, yet it has avoided economic collapse by redirecting trade, boosting defence spending, and finding new buyers for its energy exports – particularly in China and India.

However, signs of strain are emerging. In June, Russia’s Minister for Economic Development, Maxim Reshetnikov, admitted the economy was ‘on the brink of recession’, amid slowing industrial output and a mounting fiscal burden.

Tensions have also been rising over reports of closer cooperation between Moscow and Beijing. Ukrainian intelligence official Oleh Alexandrov claimed over the weekend that China has been helping Russia identify targets in Ukraine using satellite reconnaissance.

He said Kyiv had evidence of ‘a high level of cooperation’ in mapping Ukrainian territory for strikes – an allegation the Kremlin has denied. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Russia has its ‘own space capabilities’ and does not rely on Chinese satellites.

Zelensky’s statement came as several European countries reported a surge in suspicious drone activity over military installations and civilian airports. Some governments have accused Russia of testing NATO’s air defences – a charge Moscow has dismissed as ‘baseless’.

Four members of one family, including a 15-year-old girl, were among those killed in Sunday’s strikes, which saw more than 500 missiles and drones launched overnight, mainly targeting the Lviv region in western Ukraine.

The Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) has charged property owners who have received Land Use Charge Demand Notice to pay in order to fulfil their obligation to the State.

Sule Salihu Enehe, Chairman of KGIRS, gave the charge in Lokoja, Kogi State Capital, on Monday while having a chat with Journalists on the significance of Land Use Charge and early payment of the tax, adding that the Land Use Charge introduced by the Government was aimed at eliminating the burden of multiple taxation, provision of a more streamlined and efficient system.

Enehe urged property owners that had received their Land Use Charge (LUC) Demand Notice to pay as soon as possible to enable them enjoy early payment incentives.

He said, ‘Payment within 5 days of receipt of Demand Notice attracts 15% discount while payment within 15 days of receipt of demand notice has 10% discount and payment within 25 days of receipt of Demand Notice also has 5% discount to encourage prompt payment of the LUC.

‘Payment can be made in all bank branches across the State as well as Kogi State Revenue POS Agents’, he stated.

He assured that Government would continue to use the revenue for infrastructure development, maintenance of the environment, and provision of adequate security for the State , as he re-emphasised the significance of the tax.

He said, ‘The Land Use Charge offers several benefits, including; Accurate assessment of property values for taxation purposes, Identification and registration of property in the State, Allocation of land for government projects and social amenities, Employment opportunities for enumerators from the District, and Creation of a reliable database on the property makeup of the State to inform decision-making.

‘The tax obligation section of the Land Use Charge focuses on property used for lease and commercial purposes, but there are exemptions, and they include; Property owned and occupied by religious bodies for public worship or education, Public cemeteries and burial grounds,

‘Others are non -profit educational institutions and public libraries, palaces of recognised traditional rulers, community property like town -halls used for community meetings, and Property owned and occupied by pensioners’.

In a historic transition at Nigeria’s top electoral body, May Agbamuche-Mbu has become the first woman to chair the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) – even if only in an acting capacity.

Her appointment follows the handover by Mahmood Yakubu, who stepped aside on Tuesday after nearly a decade at the position. The announcement, made during a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners in Abuja, marked the end of an era defined by digital reforms, institutional restructuring, and major electoral milestones.

Citing Section 306 of the 1999 Constitution, Yakubu said his decision was to ensure a smooth transition as INEC prepares for another busy election cycle. By consensus of the National Commissioners, Agbamuche-Mbu – the commission’s most senior member – was chosen to act as chairman pending the confirmation of a substantive head.

Announcing the transition, Yakubu said: ‘I have today handed over to Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, who will serve as Acting Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission until a substantive replacement is appointed.’

He also urged INEC management staff and commissioners to extend their full cooperation and support to Agbamuche-Mbu as she takes charge of the Commission’s affairs.

Born in Kano but originally from Delta State, Agbamuche-Mbu’s upbringing in northern Nigeria gave her a broad national outlook and a deep appreciation for the country’s diversity. Her early life reflects a blend of northern and southern influences.

She attended St. Louis Secondary School, Kano, before proceeding to the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), where she obtained her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree in 1984. She was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985, and later qualified as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales after completing studies at the College of Law, London.

Agbamuche-Mbu further earned a Master’s degree in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London, alongside postgraduate qualifications in International Dispute Resolution and International Business Law.

Before joining INEC, Agbamuche-Mbu built a distinguished career as Managing Partner at Norfolk Partners, a Lagos-based commercial law firm providing legal advisory services to clients in energy, finance, and corporate sectors. Her sharp intellect and reputation for integrity made her a trusted voice in both private and public circles.

Her first major role in public service came in 2010 when she was appointed the sole solicitor on the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee (PPAC) – a federal task force that audited incomplete public projects nationwide. In 2016, she served on the Ministerial Committee that drafted the Road Map for the Solid Minerals Sector, contributing to policy reforms aimed at diversifying Nigeria’s economy.

Alongside her legal practice, Agbamuche-Mbu carved a name for herself in legal journalism. As Editor of THISDAY LAWYER, the legal supplement of THISDAY newspaper, she wrote more than 120 editions of her column Legal Eagle between 2014 and 2016. Her incisive commentaries – often tackling issues of governance, justice, and institutional reform – influenced public discourse and earned her respect within the legal community.

Her writing reflected her belief that democracy and justice thrive only when laws are transparent and accessible to citizens. It also established her as a measured yet courageous voice for reform – a quality that would later define her role within INEC.

Since her appointment as National Commissioner in 2016, Agbamuche-Mbu has played a central role in the commission’s legal and administrative evolution. She has contributed to policy development, institutional strengthening, and the modernisation of electoral processes through technology.

Agbamuche-Mbu is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK), Nigeria Branch, where she once served as Secretary. Her expertise in arbitration and mediation highlights her commitment to fairness and constructive dialogue.

Beyond the public eye, Agbamuche-Mbu is married to Patrick Mbu, and together they share a quiet family life.

As she assumes the leadership of INEC, even if temporarily, Agbamuche-Mbu brings with her more than 30 years of experience and a steady record of professionalism. Her appointment represents a symbolic milestone for women in public service.

In an era of institutional fragility and divided leadership, Prince Blessing Lawal, Founder and President of the Global Socio-Economic and Financial Evolution Network (GSFEN), which includes the GSFEN Business School, the academic arm of GSFEN Worldwide UK, leads a coalition of more than 1,500 Peace Ambassadors from 97 countries.

The organisation works closely with the United Nations to promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He has built a network that connects people and systems across continents with one shared purpose, creating a peaceful, inclusive and economically empowered world.

Lawal also serves as Senior Manager of Education for the International Teachers Association (ITA) UK, extending his influence beyond organisational boundaries. His work represents a model where academia, governance, civil society and diplomacy align to produce measurable outcomes that benefit communities and nations alike.

GSFEN operates as an ecosystem that links public policy with local action. It goes beyond advocacy by implementing programmes that improve financial literacy, promote youth development and drive social innovation. Through partnerships with governments, universities, international agencies and non-profit organisations, GSFEN applies the United Nations’ call for ‘global partnerships for sustainable development.’ It builds cooperation between experts and citizens, ensuring that global goals are translated into local realities.

Lawal often says that ‘vision without structure remains a dream, and structure without passion becomes bureaucracy.’ This belief defines GSFEN’s working model, which combines purpose with organisation. Every initiative, from financial education to peace leadership, is designed around sustainability and accountability. This disciplined yet inclusive approach has earned GSFEN recognition as a trusted partner for governments, institutions and development agencies across continents.

At the centre of GSFEN’s activities is the Peace Ambassador Programme, which brings together representatives from over 97 countries. These ambassadors promote peace, leadership and socio-economic development within their communities. Through training, mentorship and cross-cultural dialogue, they advance financial inclusion, civic responsibility and conflict resolution. Each ambassador serves as both a messenger and an implementer, translating international frameworks like the SDGs into practical community action.

Lawal’s leadership is grounded in partnership. He sees institutions as parts of a shared global system rather than separate entities. Under his direction, GSFEN collaborates with universities for research, with governments for policy frameworks, with civil society for implementation and with private enterprises for innovation and funding. This multi-sector collaboration ensures that projects are sustainable and scalable.

He believes that economic empowerment is the foundation of peace. As a Verified Educator with Harvard Business Impact Education, Lawal combines academic knowledge with practical solutions. GSFEN promotes financial literacy, youth innovation and social entrepreneurship, helping individuals and communities participate meaningfully in economic growth. Its approach shifts development thinking from dependency to empowerment and self-sufficiency.

In today’s world, institutional credibility depends on impact, adaptability and alignment with human needs. Under Lawal’s leadership, GSFEN has shown that visionary leadership can turn an idea into an institution and an institution into a global movement. From international conferences to community projects, GSFEN demonstrates that progress happens when vision is matched with structure and purpose.

Lawal’s work stands as an example of how to build systems that endure institutions that translate ideas into impact and hope into tangible results. His leadership continues to remind policymakers, academics and development practitioners that meaningful change begins when institutions think globally, act locally and serve humanity collectively.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible innovation in the country’s rapidly evolving fintech sector, emphasizing that sustained growth must be anchored on trust, compliance, and consumer protection.

Olayemi Cardoso, CBN governor, made this known at the Nigeria FinTech Week 2025 held in Lagos, on Tuesday.

Cardoso, who was represented by Yusuf Rakiya Opeyemi, the director of payment system supervision, CBN, commended the Fintech Association of Nigeria (FintechNGR) for creating a platform that continues to unite regulators, innovators, and investors to chart the course of Nigeria’s digital future.

He said the theme of the week, ‘Fintech Ecosystem Symphony: Orchestrating Nigeria’s Digital Future’, aptly captures the delicate harmony required between innovation and regulation in building a safe and inclusive financial ecosystem.

‘Like an orchestra, our fintech ecosystem requires harmony between innovators and regulators, between inclusion and security, and between competition and collaboration. Only through such balance can we orchestrate a future that advances innovation, strengthens trust, and enhances financial inclusion,’ he said.

The CBN governor noted that innovation remains the lifeblood of the digital economy, as fintech products, from mobile payments to AI-driven financial services, continue to expand access and convenience for millions of Nigerians.

However, he cautioned that technological progress must not outpace the safeguards necessary to protect consumers and the financial system. ‘The Central Bank embraces responsible innovation. We provide space for creativity while safeguarding financial stability. Regulatory compliance is not an obstacle but a precondition for sustainable growth,’ Cardoso added.

He disclosed that the apex bank has taken several steps to ensure this balance, including the adoption of ISO 20022 messaging standards for payment interoperability, and geofencing and geotagging of terminals to enhance transaction traceability and combat fraud. These measures, he said, are part of broader efforts to build a more resilient, transparent, and trusted digital payment infrastructure.

Cardoso also highlighted the CBN’s ongoing work on the open banking framework, which allows the secure sharing of financial data, with customer consent, between banks and fintechs. He described the initiative as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s financial innovation journey, one that would encourage collaboration, competition, and customer-centric product development.

However, he noted that implementation would be gradual to ensure the right safeguards are in place. ‘Our approach to open banking remains measured. We are ensuring that the necessary controls around fraud prevention and data protection are firmly established before full rollout,’ he explained.

On financial inclusion, CBN governor said that despite the rapid rise of mobile wallets, agent banking, and USSD services, technology alone cannot close the financial access gap. He called for stronger collaboration between fintech companies, banks, and government agencies to extend literacy, build consumer trust, and reach underserved rural communities.

‘A symphony is incomplete if some instruments are missing. Likewise, national progress suffers when communities are excluded. Our collective commitment must be that no region or community is left behind in Nigeria’s digital transformation,’ he said.

The CBN’s data, he said, reflects growing public confidence in digital payments. The total number of electronic transactions increased from 3.9 billion valued at N280 trillion in August 2024 to 4.12 billion valued at N384 trillion by July 2025. ‘This sustained growth underscores the Nigerian public’s confidence in digital platforms and the depth of consultation within our payment ecosystem,’ he added.

To sustain that momentum, the apex bank continues to strengthen cybersecurity frameworks, enhance fraud detection systems, and collaborate with the Nigerian Electronic Fraud Forum (NeFF) and other enforcement agencies to safeguard consumers.

Cardoso urged fintech founders and innovators to view regulators as partners rather than obstacles, stressing that both parties share a common goal, which is to build a financial system that is inclusive, transparent, and trusted. ‘Innovation thrives where there is trust. We must build a compliance-based trust, a trusted business is a sustainable business. Trust is the bridge between technology and transformation. Without it, innovation will not deliver its full promise,’ he affirmed.

In his welcome address, Dr. Stanley Jacob, president of the Fintech Association of Nigeria (FintechNGR), said this year’s conference theme: ‘Orchestrating the Future of Finance’, reflects the sector’s shared responsibility to harmonize innovation, policy, and impact.

‘The fintech ecosystem is no longer a collection of startups working in silos. It is a movement of innovators, regulators, investors, and educators working together to transform Nigeria’s economy. Collaboration is the rhythm that sustains our symphony of progress,’ Jacob said.

Jacob outlined FintechNGR’s strategic initiatives, including its Policy Innovation (PI) Agenda, capacity-building programmes, and expansion of Nigeria FinTech Week to more cities across Africa. He added that the association now represents over 600 member institutions, spanning banks, technology firms, investors, and universities, demonstrating the depth of Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem.

Dr. Segun Aina, president of the Africa Fintech Network (AFN), emphasized the need for harmonised regulations across African markets to enable startups to scale beyond their borders. ‘Africa cannot compete globally if its fintech innovators remain confined by fragmented national regulations. Our goal is to create a single African fintech market, driven by trust, interoperability, and shared standards,’ Aina said.

He revealed that the AFN is working with regional bodies to introduce a cross-border licensing framework that would allow fintechs to operate across multiple African jurisdictions with a single approval process.

For her part, Dr. Jameelah Sharrief-Ayedun, CEO of CreditRegistry and chairperson of the FintechNGR Nigeria FinTech Week Committee, said the industry must ensure that consumers are not left behind in the digital transformation journey.

‘Fintech is not just about innovation, it is about inclusion. As we adopt artificial intelligence, blockchain, and open banking, we must make sure these innovations serve real human needs, protect data, and inspire confidence,’ Sharrief-Ayedun stated.

Sharrief-Ayedun also urged delegates to turn networking opportunities into tangible collaborations that move Nigeria’s fintech ecosystem forward. ‘Every connection made here must contribute to something bigger, partnerships that make finance safer, smarter, and more inclusive,’ she added.

The Nigeria FinTech Week 2025, hosted by FintechNGR in partnership with the CBN, the Africa Fintech Network, and other ecosystem stakeholders, attracted participants from over 20 countries, including regulators, startups, investors, and technology firms.

Panel sessions at the event explored topics such as open banking adoption, digital identity, cybersecurity, cross-border payments, and AI in financial services, with experts agreeing that regulation and innovation must evolve together.

Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, has commended President Bola Tinubu’s economic management, declaring that no state government in Nigeria is currently borrowing to pay workers’ salaries, a development he credited to the administration’s fiscal discipline and economic reforms.

Akpabio remarked on Tuesday in his welcome-back speech while addressing lawmakers during the resumption of plenary after a long recess.

He said, ‘I can confidently say that through the engineering of President Bola Tinubu and his team, no state government today is borrowing to pay salaries.

‘So, for this, we say kudos to the administration.’

The Senate President praised what he described as the ‘sound economic engineering’ of the Tinubu administration, noting that the fiscal reforms have strengthened revenue generation and restored investor confidence in key sectors of the economy.

He said the upper chamber would continue to support policies that improve the lives of Nigerians while maintaining its independence and oversight role over the executive arm.

‘The Senate will lend its strength to every policy that raises our people, but where policies imperil them, we shall not hesitate to speak on their behalf,’ he said.

Akpabio, however, reminded his colleagues that their return to plenary came at a time when citizens were grappling with insecurity, high cost of living, and hunger, stressing that Nigerians expected tangible results, not rhetoric.

‘Over 33 million Nigerians face acute food insecurity, a crisis demanding urgent legislative action on agriculture, irrigation, rural roads, and mechanisation.

‘Hunger cannot be defeated with words; it requires policy, budget, and will,’ he declared.

The Senate President further urged senators to rededicate themselves to the service of the nation, warning against the growing culture of political showmanship.

‘Leadership is not a carnival, and governance is not a stage for theatrics.

‘Let no one mistake the nation’s destiny for a costume drama, nor confuse applause with achievement,’ he cautioned.

Akpabio also called for stronger collaboration between the legislature and executive to tackle the nation’s challenges, including insecurity, power instability, and infrastructure decay.

He emphasised the need to reform the Constitution, deepen democracy, and ensure that public funds are used for the people’s welfare, not private gain.

‘Our relations with the Executive shall remain frank and firm, neither obsequious nor obstructive,’ he noted.

‘We must continue to uphold the independence of this Senate, the dignity of this chamber, and the majesty of the Constitution which governs us all.’

As the Senate resumes its legislative duties, Akpabio charged his colleagues to make the 10th Senate a symbol of integrity and transformation.

‘Let this Senate be remembered as an instrument of national transformation, a citadel of democracy, and a beacon of hope,’ he said.

Kikelomo Solomon-Ayeni is a creative artist who navigates the lines between artistry and enterprise. Over the years, she has demonstrated that her journey is not just about creating art, but also about reimagining how African creativity can thrive in a global economy, having exhibited African creatives in London, Berlin, Palma, and New York. In this interview with BusinessDay, she envisions Africa’s creative economy becoming a central force and key contributor to the global creative industry. JOHN SALAU brings the excerpts:

You have been in the art space for some years now; kindly tell us more about your creative work and why it feels deeply personal.

I am a multi-talented artist with a keen eye for detail and a heart dedicated to social change. I seamlessly merge my artistic talents with my advocacy work to create impactful visual narratives. I am driven by a deep love for documenting the lives of women and children. My photography goes beyond mere images; it serves as a powerful medium for advocacy and social awareness. I find profound joy in capturing the essence of a child’s journey, from the womb to the world, and I am committed to shedding light on their stories. For me, art is not just aesthetic; it is spiritual and emotional. I want my work to be a safe space for others to see themselves, find their voice, and believe in their worth. My works have been shown in various galleries across the world. The recent ones being Boomer Gallery London, Praxis Gallery Minneapolis, USA and Independent ArtSpace in China.

Can you share what inspired your journey in the creative economy space over the past 10 years?

I believe my entry was divine. It began with a strong conviction for me to pursue photography, a medium that trained my eyes to notice light, colour, emotion, and the unspoken stories that shape our everyday experiences. Photography taught me how to observe, and made me aware of the limitations that artists in Africa often face when trying to build careers from their talent. Very early, I already understood that passion alone was not enough. I saw talented creatives around me struggling, not because they lacked skill, but because they lacked business understanding, infrastructure, and mentorship. This made me pursue artistic excellence and systems-building. I wanted to create platforms where creativity could be both celebrated and sustainably monetised. That intersection of artistry and enterprise is where my work continues to thrive.

As a creative artist, why is education important?

Education is foundational to everything I do. I am a World Bank scholarship beneficiary at the Enterprise Development Centre, Pan Atlantic University, where I studied entrepreneurship management. I upgrade my business knowledge every time. I recently finished a master’s in management from the University of Derby. A man cannot go beyond the knowledge he has. Without knowledge, our artists remain vulnerable to exploitation, burnout, and being undervalued. That is why at the Nirmala Chellarams Centre for Entrepreneurship Skills, I helped develop curricula that integrate business education for creative entrepreneurship. I also teach business at the Nigeria Photography Expo and Conference often. I teach artists how to build sustainable models from sourcing finance to negotiation and market understanding.

What recognitions have meant the most to you, and why?

Each recognition I have received, whether it was the World Bank, the Cherie Blair Foundation, the French Consulate, or the UK Arts Council Global Talent Endorsement, has affirmed that the work I am doing matters both locally and globally. What these recognitions do is open doors for me, the communities and artists I represent. They have enabled me to scale impact, access funding, build networks, and amplify the voices of those often overlooked. They prove that when we invest intentionally in African creativity, the returns social, cultural, and economic returns are profound. They are validations of a larger argument around for years: that Africa’s creative industries are not fringe sectors, but are powerful engines of economic growth and cultural diplomacy. However, I don’t let them define me. Staying humble and focused is a key to going higher and further in life.

With all you have achieved, what are you most proud of?

I am proud of the impact my art (visual and written) has made and is making in the lives of people. I am also proud of the legacy I am building. A legacy that challenges the world to see African artists as global players, cultural ambassadors, and economic actors capable of shaping markets, narratives, and futures.

You often talk about ‘infrastructure for artists.’ What do you mean by that?

When I talk about ‘infrastructure for artists,’ I mean all the systems, structures, and support networks that allow artists to thrive beyond just creating the work. Art doesn’t exist in isolation; artists need spaces to show their work, platforms to connect with audiences, opportunities for funding, training, and collaboration. Without these, even the most talented artists can struggle to grow or be seen. So for me, building infrastructure is about creating sustainable ecosystems around artists, from galleries and residencies, to mentorship programs, to policies that support creative careers. It’s about making sure that artists are not just surviving but are positioned to influence culture, shape communities, and participate fully in the global art conversation.

Could you tell us about Red19 Photography and how it has evolved over the years?

Red19 Photography was born in 2011, during a time when Nigeria’s art market was still fragile and underdeveloped. Starting a photography brand then was seen as risky, but I was determined to create something meaningful. I was sure that there is a future for me in the creative space and photography was my starting point. I started my business carving a niche for myself in Children, Maternity and Family photography. The goal of the business was to promote family bonds. This type of photography never existed in Nigeria then so it was difficult to sustain the business at the early stage. I embraced other types of photography to ensure there was constant cash flow. I would not market the other photography I did but I often got referrals for them and it helped keep the business afloat till the niche became viable. As the year went by, I created an arm for wedding and event photography, photo editing training, photography training and mentorship, video production; little by little we grew as opportunities unfolded to the organisation.

What is Red19 Global, and what makes it different?

Red19 Global is the evolution of my desire to scale African creativity beyond national borders. Based in the United Kingdom and Virginia USA, it serves as a bridge between African creators and global audiences. What sets it apart is its holistic approach; we’re not just organizing exhibitions or selling art; we’re building a full creative ecosystem that includes artist representation, cultural storytelling, portfolio reviews, and strategic partnerships. I created Red19 Global because I saw a consistent problem: talented African artists were not getting the global visibility, structure, or support they needed. Red19 Global addresses that gap. It is designed to help African and diaspora creatives gain visibility that their work deserves and also access international markets. Red19 Global is about reimagining what a global platform for African art can look like, one rooted in cultural relevance and economic empowerment.

So far, how do you define success for Red19 Global?

Success for Red19 Global is not just about how many exhibitions we have done, but about the depth of engagement and opportunities we have created for artists. In less than a year, we have showcased African creatives in cities like London, China, Berlin, Palma, and New York. These exhibitions were more than showcases; they are strategic entry points into wider networks of residencies, sales, critical reviews, and collaborations. We have had artists get featured in the international press, and build sustainable careers off the visibility they have gained. The kind of success that matters to me is one that creates platforms that are beyond displaying art, but build momentum, open doors, and create tangible, long-term benefits for every artist involved.

You have been active in cultural programming. What is your curatorial approach?

I believe that exhibitions and cultural programs should reflect the lived experiences of the communities they serve, and also create space for new interpretations and voices. My curatorial approach is a mix of open calls and invitations. With open calls, I give space for a wide range of artists to take part, especially those who might not normally get opportunities to show their work. It’s a way of discovering new voices, bringing diversity, and making sure fresh ideas are always part of the conversation. On the other hand, I also use invitations when I want to bring in artists whose work connects directly to a theme or story I am curating. This gives the exhibition focus and ensures the message is clear and impactful. By combining both approaches, my programming stays inclusive and intentional. It opens doors for many artists while still shaping a strong narrative. In the end, my goal is to create cultural projects that are accessible, meaningful, and that spark dialogue between artists, audiences, and communities.

Finally, what is your ultimate vision for the African creative economy?

My ultimate vision for the African creative economy is for it to be recognised as a core driver of the global creative industry, not a peripheral contributor. A source of innovation, influence, and sustainable growth that shapes global culture. Africa’s creative voices are among the most original in the world, and I see a future where they circulate freely across international platforms, enjoying the same visibility, infrastructure, and commercial power as any established creative hub. To achieve this, African artists must be able to create locally and compete globally. That requires strong infrastructure: platforms that give visibility, systems that protect intellectual property, financing that supports risk and growth, and networks that connect artists with global markets. This is where Red19 Global plays a pivotal role. Through our cultural programming, exhibitions, and artist development initiatives, we provide the scaffolding that allows artists to move from idea to international stage. We combine open calls that invite diverse participation with curated invitations that ensure artistic excellence, creating opportunities for both emerging and established artists to showcase their work to the world. In essence, Red19 Global represents the infrastructure that makes my vision tangible. It is a bridge between African talent and global opportunity, a platform that ensures African artists are not only part of the global creative conversation but are actively shaping its future. By supporting artists with visibility, skills, and access, Red19 Global contributes to an Africa whose creativity is not just preserved but projected onto the world stage, where it belongs.