Category: Business Day

In a confident tone, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his Independence Day speech celebrated what he described as the tangible fruits of his sweeping economic reforms.

‘Under our leadership, our economy is recovering fast, and the reforms we started over two years ago are delivering tangible results. The second quarter 2025 Gross Domestic Product grew by 4.23%, Nigeria’s fastest pace in four years, and outpaced the 3.4 per cent projected by the International Monetary Fund. Inflation declined to 20.12% in August 2025, the lowest level in three years,’ Tinubu declared.

Since assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu has pursued a bold economic reset, removing the decades-old fuel subsidy, liberalising the foreign exchange market, and laying the groundwork for a new tax regime scheduled to begin in 2026.

Economists have described these moves as ‘bold but painful,’ with many Nigerians struggling to cope with the accompanying hardships.

Yet, as the president trumpeted progress on the economy, a growing chorus insists that Nigeria cannot achieve true transformation on the back of economic reforms alone. Across civil society, opposition circles, and international partners, the consensus is that reforms must extend beyond the marketplace to the very heart of Nigeria’s democracy: its constitution and its elections.

‘Economic reforms without political reforms are unsustainable,’ a reform advocate who doesn’t want to be mentioned told this writer.

‘The government must also reform the political system to ensure rule of law, free and fair elections, and human rights are granted. A reformed political system will complement economic reforms, which will eventually boost investor confidence.’ This argument crystallised at the National Electoral Reforms Summit 2025 last week, where political leaders, reform advocates, and civil society converged virtually under the theme ‘Critical Constitutional Amendments for Credible Elections in 2027.’

‘A government that is perceived as lacking legitimacy will never be effective in governing,’ Pat Utomi, a professor of political economy and leader of thought, said at the Independence Day event.

‘Legitimacy is earned when people believe elections reflect their will. If we do not do everything to ensure free and fair elections, everybody loses, including those who think they have power for the moment.’

Utomi went further, urging international pressure on Nigeria’s political class. ‘We should internationalise this problem to the point that our country could face isolation.’ Oby Ezekwesili, a former minister of education, outlined concrete measures, including INEC’s financial and operational independence, mandatory electronic transmission of results, and stronger prosecutorial powers for electoral offenses.

‘Relying on the police and attorney-general for prosecutions has only rewarded bad behaviour,’ she said.

Her critique extended to what she called ‘courtroom democracy.’ ‘Elections are being decided in court rather than at the polling station,’ she lamented.

‘That destroys the spirit of democracy. We need specialised electoral courts, automated systems for assigning cases to judges, and strict timelines for resolving disputes. Right now, elections have become an industry for the judiciary. For as long as our electoral system is a mess, it continues to destroy lives and futures.’

Peter Obi, who himself contested the last presidential election, wants the system to curb defections.

‘Any politician who jumps party after winning an election should lose his seat,’ he proposed.

‘This is a very critical thing that has to happen before our next election,’ he said. ‘Without a proper electoral system that can guarantee free and fair elections, our democracy will remain fragile.’

These voices inside Nigeria are now joined by pressure from outside. The European Union has urged Nigeria to act fast on reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.

‘We recognise that there are certain time constraints, both in terms of judicial reform as well as administrative reform, and of course, constitutional reform, which is much more difficult,’ Barry Andrews, member of the European Parliament and chief of the EU Election Observation Follow-up Mission to Nigeria, said during a meeting with INEC last week in Abuja.

‘But we are making all of these recommendations against international standards that the EU and Nigeria and most countries have signed up to. to support democracy, not just here in Nigeria, not just in Africa, but across the world, and in Europe as well.’

For many Nigerians, the tension is clear. On one hand, the president is pushing through market reforms meant to position Africa’s largest economy for future growth. On the other hand, the foundations of democracy, the rules of the game, the fairness of the vote, and the independence of institutions, remain fragile.

The question looming over the country is whether the political will exists to match the momentum in economics with equivalent ambition in governance.

‘Economic growth without democratic legitimacy is a house built on sand,’ the reform advocate said.

On September 29, 2025, Africa Magic stepped up its efforts at offering original content for its growing viewership across Nigeria, the continent and the globe.

That day, at an exclusive movie premiere at Filmhouse Cinemas, Landmark MX4D, Oniru, Lagos, Africa Magic unveiled its new content slate premiering next quarter.

The slate includes four new original drama series: The Low Priest (130 episodes); Mother of the Bride (39 episodes); Etiti (26 episodes) and Rise Again, which were unveiled to a select audience including; movie lovers, cast and crew members of the new movies and the media.

Starting with The Low Priest and Mother of the Bride, which both premiered on September 29, 2025 on Africa Magic Showcase, the new original drama series feature diverse storytelling across drama, fantasy, and music-inspired narratives, while reinforcing Africa Magic’s commitment to delivering fresh and engaging African content.

The remaining two; Etiti and Rise Again will premiere on October 2 and 19, 2025, respectively also on Africa Magic Showcase.

The event, which is aptly an exclusive evening with Africa Magic, also was a sort of celebration of the directors of the movies and their creative ingenuity.

From Femi Ogunsanwo, Basketmouth and Unlimited LA, the directors and producers truly lived up to the expectation of Africa Magic that commissioned the movies and the viewers, who have been anticipating their release. Moreover, the storylines are quite intriguing.

Starting with the already premiered The Low Priest, the new drama series offers 130 exciting episodes. It is directed by Femi Ogunsanwo and stars the likes of: Paul Nnadiekwe, David Eyo and Oluchi Amajuoyi. The series follows two rivals who trespass into a sacred shrine, triggering a twist of fate where one is chosen by the gods and the other cursed. The show premiered on September 29, 2025, and airs weekdays at 8 pm on Africa Magic Showcase.

On its part, Mother of the Bride (39 episodes), is a family drama about a Lagos matriarch who, after her husband’s death, discovers she has 45 days to marry off one of her four daughters or lose her inheritance to tradition. Starring Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman, Ibrahim Suleiman, Wendy Lawal, Kalu Ikeagwu and Gloria Anozie Young, the series airs Mondays to Wednesdays at 8:30 pm on Africa Magic Showcase.

Also, Etiti, a 26- episodes drama series, directed by Daniel Oriahi and produced by Bright Okpocha (Basketmouth), premiered on October 2, 2025. The fantasy drama tells the story of a fearless warrior hunter trapped in the afterlife, where he must work with a goddess, Nwa Ala, to save his bride and expose his killer. The series stars Uzoamaka Onuoha, Bryan Okoye, Elma Mbadiwe and Paschaline Ijeoma Alex. It airs Thursdays and Fridays at 8:30 p.m.

Directed by Unlimited LA, an award-winning music video director, Rise Again is one of the four new titles to place a bet on.

The series follows a gifted dancer’s journey of resilience and redemption as he battles betrayal, loss and injury in a bid to reclaim his dream. Featuring Liquorose, Hermes Iyele, Kaffy, Do2dtun, Femi Branch, Saskay and Dada Boy Ehiz, the show will premiere on October 19, 2025, and airs Sundays at 8 pm on Africa Magic Showcase.

Apart from the four titles are yet another three new titles on the indigenous channels, which are set to debut on October 11, 2025. They include: Kukoyi, which will debut on Africa Magic Yoruba. It tells the story of Aremu, who accepts the ominous post of Abobaku in his quest for wealth, knowing it ties his fate to that of the king. Mgbuka on Africa Magic Igbo explores loyalty, betrayal, and vengeance in the scrap business through the lives of two childhood friends turned rivals.

On Africa Magic Hausa, Sabon Tauraron Arewa, a new music reality competition, will spotlight emerging vocal talent from northern Nigeria in a contest for fame and a grand prize.

However, the premiere event was an exciting outing for Atinuke Babatunde, new executive head, Content and Channels, West Africa at MultiChoice.

Expressing her excitement on the quality of the output by the directors and producers, Babatunde said, ‘Africa Magic remains committed to telling authentic African stories that resonate with audiences both at home and abroad. With this lineup, we are not only spotlighting some of the industry’s most visionary directors and talent but also reinforcing our promise to deliver premium, relatable entertainment to our viewers.’

Babatunde reiterated MultiChoice’s commitment at offering Nigerian and African creatives the needed platforms to showcase their talent, and most importantly, changing Africa’s narratives with original contents, directed and produced by Africans for the world.

Following the premiere, she urged movie lovers and subscribers to hook onto Africa Magic Showcase (DStv Channel 151, GOtv Channel 8) to enjoy all four titles, which will also be released on Showmax soon.

Since Nigeria’s independence in 1960, the Church trajectory and that of the country has been intertwined.

The Church on many fronts has been a mirror of development, especially in regard to nation building. Something the political class might have to learn and relearn.

However, the proliferation of religious centres across the country in some way has not helped in deepening the narrative of the Church Movement in Nigeria. This is so because the proliferation of religious centres has failed to align with nation building.

For many religious leaders, the primary goal and calling into ministry is to touch the people within the four walls of the church.

But national development goes beyond that myopic thinking into a broader mindset of reaching people outside the Church.

In 1842, the church movement in Nigeria characterised with the arrival of the Protestant missionaries from the Church Missionary Society (CMS) and the Wesleyan Methodists in Badagry, Nigeria, to establish missions and spread Christianity.

This marked the beginning of a significant era of Christian evangelism, with the establishment of churches and schools that played a vital role in the growth and indigenisation of Christianity in Nigeria, particularly in the southern and western regions.

At independence in 1960, the Nigeria Church was largely dominated by missionaries from the ‘global north’. However, that narrative has given way to a growing number of indigenous churches, who are shifting the missionary trajectory from the ‘global south to north’.

The question has been what role has religious centres played since the colonial masters left Nigeria? Over the years, there has been a proliferation of churches and mosques that are run by indigenous people of Nigeria.

Today, even churches that were established by the colonial masters are now being run by Nigerians, pointing to the rule of the Church in nation building on the back of the church-state development narrative,

‘And you will agree with me that since 1842 that the Church Missionary Society in Nigeria came, which happened to be the first church, they came with education, they came with health care facilities,’ Stephen Adegbite, executive secretary, Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), said.

Adegbite said that the Church has done a lot in Nigeria, even before independence. According to him, many of those in the ruling class since independence attended missionary schools.

He added that the Church has been able to shape the moral of Nigerians through religious studies, and Bible knowledge, being taught in schools both at the primary and secondary level of education.

‘And that is why Nigerians are saying today, the Church is saying, it should not be removed from the curriculum of our education system,’ Adegbite said.

According to him, the Church provided infrastructural facilities from schools, hospitals, and also provided leadership in many areas of the country. ‘So when we look back today, we can say, the Lord has been able to help the church in shaping the Nigerian system since independence.’ However, Adegbite believes there is a need for the leadership of the Church to revisit the history of the Church by going back to the roots to learn from the founding fathers the technique of nation building beyond rhetoric. ‘It’s not to be a church that matters, but the attitude of people that go and attend churches; their lives must be changed. And they must be Christian. Nobody should be forced to be Christian. Don’t pretend to be Christian.’

Joseph Ojo, the presiding Archbishop of Calvary Kingdom Church (CKC) said the Nigerian narrative cannot be complete without the Church movement, which predated the country’s independence in 1960.

According to him, the ‘Pentecostal Movement’ of the post-independence era gave life to what many now refer to as the proliferation of churches in Nigeria. He said that the Nigerian story will not be complete without the church – same way the church cannot exist without Nigeria.

Emmanuel Udofia, the former primate of The African Church, said the post-independence proliferation of churches in Nigeria is in response to the commandment of Jesus Christ to his disciples, which says ‘go into the world and make disciples of me.’

‘We have new churches being established almost every week or month. The mandate Jesus Christ gave to us. Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all nations,’ Udofia said.

According to him, the role of the Church is not to sit down at a particular place; rather, it is to go out and spread the gospel. ‘So in an attempt to do that, then there is bound to be many churches.’

Udofia is also of the view that having churches everywhere has helped in shaping and building the moral compass of the people within the vicinity where they operate. ‘And it’s instrumental to many churches that we have established everywhere. Although we have some challenges around us.

‘But, if the churches were not to be there; what would have happened? Because there are so many people who are involved in different types of crimes,’ Udofia said.

While the narrative is beginning to shift from building within, many of the Church leaders have understood the essence of reaching a greater audience outside the walls of the church.

Today, it is commonplace to see churches host conferences on political and economic development with themes that were hard sales during the early days of the church movement.

Similarly, the Church has fully embraced technology as a driver of the gospel message – adopting and adapting technology for impact, and not as a destructive or satanic tool of the world.

Today, Nigerian churches are building multi-purpose cathedral to serve both religious and empowerment needs of the worshipers. In many instances, these cathedrals are self-sustaining because of their multi-purpose nature.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced a series of sweeping operational reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, efficiency, and regulatory oversight in the Nigerian Fixed Income Market.

In a letter titled ‘Operational Changes to the Nigerian Fixed Income Market’ addressed to the Financial Markets Dealers Association (FMDA), the apex bank outlined key changes designed to reposition the market as a more effective tool for monetary policy transmission and economic development.

These reforms were introduced at a time when commercial banks’ deposits with the CBN, via the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF), surged to a historic N6.08 trillion, signaling a need for improved liquidity management and market coordination.

New Oversight and Settlement Structure

Under the new framework, the CBN will assume full oversight of the fixed income market’s settlement process and trading platform. This transition marks a significant shift, placing the end-to-end management of settlements directly under the Bank’s established financial market systems.

According to the CBN, the goal is to ensure market integrity, streamline operations, and create a unified regulatory framework that offers full visibility into transactions and strengthens supervisory control. This phase is set to eliminate redundant layers in the settlement process, such as intermediaries who have historically stood between market participants like banks and pension fund administrators (PFAs).

While FMDQ, the current settlement body, will remain active, it will now focus on complementary roles. The CBN emphasised that the move is not about replacing the existing trading platform, but about taking over settlement responsibilities to enhance transparency and efficiency.

Market Experts Weigh In

Ayodele Akinwunmi, Chief Economist at United Capital Plc, described the development as a strategic effort by the CBN to build a transparent and efficient market infrastructure. He noted that access to accurate data on fixed income securities will improve monetary policy implementation, allowing the CBN to make informed decisions on liquidity management, interest rate direction, and inflation control.

According to Akinwunmi, ‘The CBN wants end-to-end settlement visibility, which enables them to know exactly where the market is heading and adjust policy tools accordingly. FMDQ has done a good job so far, but this move ensures deeper regulatory control.’ Phased Implementation for Seamless Transition

To minimise disruption, the operational changes will be rolled out in stages, in close collaboration with market stakeholders.

The first major milestone will be the User Acceptance Testing (UAT) scheduled for the second week of October 2025. This will test the full functionality of the proposed settlement process. Following a successful UAT, a pilot phase will commence, running concurrently with the existing system to ensure stability.

Go-Live Timeline

The CBN has set November 3, 2025 as the target date for full migration of all fixed income settlement activities to the new system. This will be followed by the launch of a CBN-sponsored trading engine on December 1, 2025, which will cater to Primary Dealers, Market Makers, PFAs, and other licensed participants.

A Call for Stakeholder Collaboration

The CBN acknowledged the critical role of the FMDA in the development of Nigeria’s financial markets and called for continued collaboration to ensure the success of these reforms. The Bank reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent and well-regulated fixed income market that supports economic growth while safeguarding the interests of all participants.

For additional details or clarification, stakeholders are encouraged to contact Okey Umeano, acting director, Financial Markets.

Understanding the Fixed Income Market

The fixed income market is a segment of the financial system where debt instruments, such as bonds are issued and traded. These instruments typically offer investors fixed or predictable returns over time. Issuers can be governments or corporations, and investors range from individuals to institutional players like pension funds.

Because of its predictable return profile and relatively lower risk compared to equities, fixed income plays a vital role in capital allocation, liquidity management, and macroeconomic stability. The market is supported by a network of issuers, investors, brokers, credit rating agencies, and regulators working together to ensure efficient functioning.

With these reforms, the CBN aims to create a more transparent, efficient, and resilient fixed income market that better supports Nigeria’s monetary policy objectives and economic development goals.ho

Vinicius Junior scored twice, while Kylian Mbappé provided an assist and a goal as Real Madrid beat Villarreal 3-1 at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu to move top of ghe LaLiga on Saturday night.

Madrid top the table on 21 points from eight matches, while title rival Barcelona move the second position with 19 points.

Villarreal remain third with 16 points.

However, Barcelona who travel to the Estadio R. Sanchez Pizjuan on Sunday afternoon could top the LaLiga again if they beat Sevilla.

Real Madrid bounced back from their humiliating thrashing by neighbours Atletico Madrid last weekend.

After a frustrating first half which saw the Real players whistled off the pitch at the break, it took Vinicius just 90 seconds to break the deadlock at the start of the second period.

The Brazilian forward collected a flick-on from Kylian Mbappe, cut inside from the left flank and hit a shot that took a significant deflection off Santi Comesana and flew past Villarreal goalkeeper Arnau Tenas at the near post. Vinicius was Real’s main threat and in the 69th minute he squeezed a penalty under the dive of Tenas after being bundled over in the box by Rafa Marin.

But Villarreal posed a threat on the break all evening and, seconds after England midfielder Jude Bellingham – who started on the bench – was denied one on one by Tenas, Georgia striker Georges Mikautadze halved the deficit with a vicious strike past Thibaut Courtois into the bottom corner.

Villareal full-back Santiago Mourino was shown a second yellow card for pulling back Vinicius, and three minutes later Mbappe made the victory safe for Real by converting Brahim Diaz’s selfless cut-back.

The sight of Mbappe limping off the pitch moments later with what appeared to be a foot injury took a little shine off the win.

The Real Madrid forward was recently received the LaLiga player of the Month trophy for September added to

five goals scored last month before existing the game.

Mbappé found the net in all four of September’s LaLiga matches: against Real Sociedad, Espanyol, Levante (scoring twice) and Atlético. He also provided an assist for Arda Gler against Real Sociedad.

One has over the decades discovered that any set of people, community or country who hates the bitter truth live to suffer for it. That perhaps, explains why yours truly has kept emphasizing the critical, yet deliberately foisted fratricidal factors that have cumulatively acted as the enemies to the variant of democracy that we currently practise here in Nigeria. One of the most painful of that is the conduct of fraudulent elections through which humongous state funds are wantonly wasted at the end of which those who are not the choices of the electorate are foisted on the people, to who they have no iota of allegiance. Ordinarily, free, fair and credible elections are supposed to be the strong and solid foundation on which to erect the house of democracy. But when the wrong politicians mount the pedestal of power, the consequences are dire on the pauperised populace.

‘And no less damned is he who puts a friend above his country.

When I see danger threatening my people,

Whatever it may be, I shall declare it.

Our country is our life;

Only when she rides safely,

Have we any friends at all.’

-Antigone (Sophocles)

Such a sad situation of having politicians who are not the true representatives of the people leads to personalization of political power. That is more so by some egocentric and self-righteous political helmsmen, who erroneously believe that the instrument of power they wield is meant to satisfy the self, rather than the state. They brazenly step over the constitution which should be the ground norm through acts of infamy that satisfy their choice or that of so-called friends, not minding the consequences on the people they were elected or selected to serve.

Added to this is the siphoning of state funds through several odious antics for self aggrandisement, or to satiate the gargantuan greed of members of their family, with scarce regards to the rule of law. With such an oddity in place the led majority are left to groan and grind in preventable poverty, yet some policy makers keep chasing the shadows of self righteousness at the expense of the people’s pains. And it hurts those with conscience because Nigeria is so naturally endowed with oil and gas, solid minerals, fertile fields for agricultural development, places od scenic splendour as tourist attractions and of course, the best of brains that we have no reason whatsoever to languish in the pit of poverty, if not for the recurring ugly decimal of successive poor leadership. One other querulous issue is that of ethno-religious sentiment. Going by the choice of people of one ethnic group holding plum political positions, against the federal character principle as we have witnessed over the past decade degrades us as a people -like it or not. In fact, that brings up an all-important question. Have you ever wondered, like my humble self, just how our crop of patriotic founding fathers would feel, should they be brought back to life to see the Nigeria of today?

Imagine if the likes of Herbert Macaulay, Sir Adeyemo Alakija, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, Prof. Eyo Ita, Margaret Ekpo (all of the blessed memory) returning to witness the Nigeria of the 21st Century still bitterly enmeshed in ethno-centric and religious divides. Try and also imagine Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Adeleke Adedoyin, Adeniyi Jones, Eric Moore, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Abubakar Dipcharima, Aminu Kano (of the blessed memory) returning to a Nigeria steeped in preventable poverty, mass youth unemployment, insecurity, kidnapping and sundry crimes!

Certainly, these heroes of the struggle for Nigeria’s political independence would ask what has made the difference between countries such as India, Malaysia, Indonesia and Nigeria, whose independence came within the same decade or two, if not quality leadership, or the absence of it. They would cringe at the crying shame of a people still struggling for economic survival in the midst of the vast natural resources, 65 years after political independence.

They would wonder just how, like the prodigal son, our successive political leaders have squandered huge revenues from our God-given oil and gas, solid minerals, agricultural and tourism potentials and ask our leaders to explain why we are currently trapped in state and federal government debts running into trillion of Naira. The likes of Michael Imoudu, T.A Bankole, A. A. Adio-Moses, M.A. Tokunbo and T.A. Songonuga, who once ran the affairs of the Nigerian Trade Union Congress would even ask our state governors to explain just how it has become difficult to pay a minimum wage of N70,000 at a time our lawmakers cruise around in luxury automobiles, with some state governors boasting of private jets; flying over children studying under trees in their long-forgotten states! So, what is the best way forward? That is the million-naira question.

The answer, my dear reader, is to read the handwriting on the wall, as it was back in the Biblical times. But some of our political helmsmen, with self-serving and greed-driven agendas, rather than nationalistic principles have blatantly refused to read it. The call for the holistic restructuring of Nigeria has reached a nerve-shredding crescendo, reverberating across the national space. But some have obstinately turned deaf ears to it, or heed its clarion toll.

So, we caution, as we have to do under trying times such as this, out of sheer patriotic fervor, that Nigeria can no longer be run the way it is being run against the ethos of equity and justice. Nigeria can no longer be ruled by the tools of treachery, the weapons of witch-hunt and the cudgels of coercion, worse still under a democratic dispensation. Recent signs in the political horizon are scary enough. This was my position some six years ago, under the then President Muhammadu Buhari. But are we any better today?

To begin with, not a few observers of the polity would agree that Nigerians have not been as divided along ethnic and religious cleavages as we found ourselves eight years ago. For instance, while some concerned Nigerians had expected President Muhammadu Buhari to be guided by the noble mantra of nationalism and give out political appointments to guarantee ethnic equity, that of his first term were obviously skewed in favour of the North and his political acolytes. The question again is that is much different as at 2025?

Lest we forget, barely five months of Buhari’s second term, the issue of which of the geo-political zones to produce the 2023 presidency took precedence over how to pull Nigeria out of the ignoble status of the world’s poverty capital. Or, how to get the army of our job-seeking youth running into millions out of the violent streets. There were then posters of the then Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai adorning, the walls of some cities as he reportedly geared up for the plum political post. Both Babachir Lawal and Ahmed Yerima of the Arewa Youth group were making it loud and clear that the North was not about to hand over the presidential baton to any other section of the country in the next dispensation. That was back in 2015, some ten odd years ago. But is the situation any different as at this day?

The current wave of mass distraction is fixated on the obvious determination of the Bola Tinubu-led government to keep holding on to power against the political angling of the ADC party. Meanwhile, hunger, high inflation, youth unemployment, insecurity remain the daily travails rather than the exception. So, the call for a holistic restructuring of the country resonates.

Let us therefore, listen to the voices of reason. According to the then President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, restructuring Nigeria is the answer to the waves of agitations currently hitting across Nigeria. At a lecture titled: ‘Restructuring Nigeria: Decentralisation for National Cohesion’ delivered in 2017 at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House in London, Nwodo said, ‘Our present constitution is not autochthonous. It was not written by the people of Nigeria. It was not approved in a national referendum. In jurisprudence, its effectiveness will score a very low grade on account of its unacceptability.’

Interestingly, back then and in a similar tone, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the then National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, stated thus in 2017: ‘We all lined up to call ourselves Nigerians without gathering to discuss what it meant, so Nigerians should not condemn but listen and understand the agitations by the Indigenous People of Biafra .’ He however, warned against any attempt to split the country. Now, that he is the president of the country, we humbly remind him to do the needful. Restructuring remains the best way forward.

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th anniversary of independence, it stands at a crucial turning point, boldly redefining its identity in the digital age. The nation is determined to harness technology and innovation as key drivers of growth, connectivity, and empowerment for all its citizens. This is a time of renewed hope and unwavering ambition for a prosperous future.

In this era of rapid digital transformation, Nigeria is confidently embracing unprecedented developments across multiple sectors, including finance, education, healthcare, and agriculture. The rise of digital platforms is effectively bridging gaps, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating exceptional opportunities for the youth to excel. This dynamic landscape represents more than just the adoption of technology; it is about strategically harnessing it to unlock the country’s immense potential.

Despite the challenges we’ve faced over the years, there’s a vibrant spirit of resilience and optimism growing among Nigerians. Communities are uniting to tackle social issues, champion change, and promote inclusivity. This revival is driven by our collective dream of a brighter future, filled with hope and abundant opportunities for everyone to thrive. Let’s embrace this journey together!

As Nigeria embarks on this new chapter, the focus on digital innovation and community engagement paves the way for transformative growth, positioning the nation as a beacon of hope and possibility in the 21st century.

From Colonial Shadows to Digital Dawn

Before gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria was a rich tapestry of diverse kingdoms and ethnic groups, including the Hausa-Fulani in the north, the Yoruba in the southwest, and the Igbo in the southeast. Despite British colonial influence, the resilience and creativity of the Nigerian people shone through, paving the way for a united and prosperous future.

The quest for independence in Nigeria culminated in sovereignty in October 1960, sparking hopes for unity. However, the following decades were marked by military coups, economic turmoil due to fluctuating oil prices, and social unrest from ethnic and religious divides.

By 2025, Nigeria has transformed into a vibrant nation, showcasing the resilience of its youthful population. The country boasts a thriving start-up culture, with entrepreneurs making strides in technology, entertainment, and agriculture. This wave of innovation is driven by Nigeria’s embrace of the digital age, as improved mobile technology and internet access create vast opportunities.

As Nigeria confidently charts its path toward progress, it finds itself at a unique crossroads where rich tradition meets vibrant modernity. The nation is deeply rooted in its diverse cultural heritage, which encompasses a multitude of languages, customs, and historical influences. This wealth of diversity not only shapes the identity of its people but also serves as a key asset in navigating the challenges of contemporary society.

Nigeria is committed to leveraging its heritage to create innovative solutions that meet societal needs and promote economic growth. By combining traditional practices with modern technologies, the country aims to honour its past while embracing globalization and technological advancement, striving for a prosperous and inclusive future for all citizens.

Tinubu’s Digital-Era Reforms: A Nation Reimagined

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has ushered in a wave of reforms that are positioning Nigeria as a beacon of economic resilience and digital transformation. Here’s how:

Economic Diversification and Fiscal Discipline

By August 2025, the country reached an extraordinary milestone in its non-oil revenue generation, accumulating over ?20 trillion. This remarkable achievement was driven primarily by a robust performance in September, during which the country generated ?3.65 trillion in non-oil revenues alone. This figure represents an astounding increase of 411% compared to the revenue figures recorded in May 2023, showcasing a significant turnaround in the nation’s fiscal health.

The significant increase in non-oil revenue has decisively strengthened the country’s financial stability, particularly evident in the substantial improvement of the debt service-to-revenue ratio. Previously a troubling 97%, this key metric has now been reduced to below 50%. Such a drastic decrease demonstrates a clear alleviation of fiscal pressures and empowers the government to effectively direct resources towards developmental initiatives.

The economy has made significant progress, marked by a trade surplus for five consecutive quarters. Non-oil exports now account for 48% of total exports, showcasing successful diversification from oil dependency and increasing competitiveness in global markets.

Infrastructure and Regional Development The infrastructure sector is experiencing significant advancements, marked by an impressive portfolio of over 440 road projects currently underway and nearly 2,700 kilometres of new superhighways set for completion. A key highlight of this ambitious initiative is the recent inauguration of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. This strategic route is poised to greatly enhance the tourism industry and trade activities along the coast, effectively improving access and connectivity between vital economic hubs.

Alongside remarkable advancements in transportation, the government has launched six new regional development commissions that are vital in energizing local economic initiatives and providing customized support for diverse communities. With a significant investment of ?4 trillion dedicated to these commissions, there stands a strong commitment to nurturing sustainable local growth and development.

These transformative initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment to enhancing infrastructure, while also paving the way for a bright future rich with new opportunities and an improved quality of life for many. Digital and Energy Transformation

Recently, significant developments have been made in the energy sector, including the addition of 1,500 MW to the national grid, alongside solar electrification initiatives for 22 federal universities. Additionally, a Rural Electrification Program has been launched with the goal of providing power to 1 million homes. On the financial front, there has been a concerted effort to stabilize the Naira through foreign exchange reforms, which have also facilitated the clearance of $10 billion in foreign exchange liabilities.

Education and Youth Empowerment

The Nigerian government has made significant strides in supporting education and healthcare. The NELFUND student loan initiative, along with the Presidential Loan and Grant Scheme, has positively impacted over 1.2 million Nigerians. In an effort to address the issue of brain drain in the medical field, eight new medical universities have been approved. Furthermore, vocational trainees under the age of 40 are now receiving monthly stipends of ?45,000, promoting skill development and financial assistance for young individuals entering the workforce.

Agriculture and Social Investment

The government has implemented several measures to support the agricultural sector and enhance food security. This includes financial assistance for farmers through the Bank of Agriculture. Additionally, N330 billion has been distributed to assist 8 million vulnerable households. To further strengthen food security and promote exports, agro-processing zones have been established.

National Security and Stability

In recent developments, over 13,500 terrorists have been neutralized, leading to a significant decrease in insurgency and kidnapping activities. This positive trend has contributed to renewed confidence in Nigeria’s global standing, as evidenced by the increase in foreign reserves, which have now reached $42.03 billion.

Nigeria’s Trajectory: From Hope to Sustainability

Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ represents more than just a catchphrase; it serves as a strategic framework aimed at fostering sustainable development in Nigeria. The initiative focuses on harnessing digital tools, decentralizing growth, and investing in human capital to shape a promising future. It empowers the youth to transform their aspirations into reality, encourages regional development that honours cultural and economic diversity, and prioritizes the establishment of digital infrastructure as a foundational element for governance, education, and commerce.

Reflection: A Nation Reborn

As you celebrate Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary on October 1st, you’re not merely observing history but actively participating in a transformative moment. This nation has evolved beyond its age to focus on its ambitions, positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s journey towards digital prosperity and sustainable growth. Nigeria is ready to embrace a new era of innovation and development.

Phillips Nto, a university don and agricultural expert, has appealed to President Ahmed Tinubu and governments at all levels to prioritize funding for agriculture to enhance food security.

Nto noted that the call is apt now as preparations for the 2026 budgets get underway.

Nto, who is the director, Agribusiness Incubation Centre (ABIC), Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, said that only increased funding of agriculture in the 2026 budgets of all tiers of government would guarantee improved yields, value addition and prosperity for farmers.

While conducting the media around pilot farms of the incubation centre, Nto canvassed for an improved budgetary allocation for agriculture in view of the central role it plays in the development of Nigeria’s economy.

‘Now that Nigeria’s revenue is on the increase, more funds should be invested in agriculture and agribusiness to secure our tomorrow,’ he stressed. Nto, a former commissioner for Finance and Economic Development in Abia State, advocated that the increase in funding agriculture should anchor more on value addition to curb post-harvest losses. According to him, the government should consider providing agricultural subsidies to farmers, while the states should revive the agricultural extension services.

‘Agriculture is an evolving sector that requires continuous training of rural farmers. Reviving the agriculture extension services will help farmers adopt new techniques for improved yield.

‘The Agribusiness Incubation Centres across our universities can easily drive this initiative,’ he noted.

He equally canvassed for the setting up of industrial agricultural hubs in the 774 local government areas in the country to be designed in line with the crops grown in each area as a means of sustainable food security. He noted that such hubs could be jointly funded through an integrated scheme by all tiers of government with the expected increase in food production and value addition.

‘This multi-level collaboration will provide government the first hand guide on the agribusiness that is relevant to the need of the local farmers,’ he submitted.

Nto, who is also the immediate past provost, Abia State College of Education, Technical, Arochukwu, commended the federal government on its tax reforms, which he noted would also impact on the growth of agriculture in the country.

He expressed the hope that whatever the government generates from the new tax laws should be used in funding agriculture, especially in the establishment of the agro industrial hubs in the 774 local government areas in Nigeria.

From October 18-19, 2025, Terra Kulture Arena in Victoria Island, Lagos, will play host to lovers of stage performance as the opera of ‘The Gods Have Spoken’ enthralls the audience for two days.

The opera, directed by Muyideen Oladapo, popularly known as Lala, and written by Taiye Adeola, a PhD holder, will feature a collection of top Nollywood actors and actresses including: Lateef Adedimeji, Femi Branch, Tunji Sotimirin, Omowunmi Dada and Lizzy Jay.

Speaking on the forthcoming opera at a media parley in Lagos recently, Oladapo, who is drawing strength from his successful directing of ‘Kurunmi’, a play by Ola Rotimi, said that the collection of stars for the opera was a deviation from the norm, as the audience would be seeing the cast members in a different element for the first time.

Describing the opera of ‘The Gods Have Spoken’ as a must-see, Oladapo noted that with a 40-page script, over 140 pages of music and over 80 actors and crew members for the performance, the opera is simple breathtaking.

‘Opera is a play in the form of music and art where the singers and instrumentalists perform in a theatrical way. Every line will be acted out in the form of a song,’ Oladapo explained. He confessed that he chose to perform ‘The Gods Have Spoken’ because the message mirrors the society, even more today. ‘It is a story that gives hope to the common man in their pursuit of destiny,’ he said.

On his part, Tunji Sotimirin, a veteran actor and academic, assured the audience of a spectacular experience at Terra Kulture come October 18th and 19th.

‘This is a tiny script with a unique, significant message and dialogue being rendered for a spectacle to behold. This is to celebrate the common man’s voice to equip themselves,’ he said.

Also speaking during the media parley, Segun Adefila, choreography director of the opera, explained that the story which is about destiny and character teaches how man can influence the voice of the gods to bring destiny to life.

Adeaga Mofopefoluwa, the music director, said that, The Gods Have Spoken is a peculiar play with a unique message for the audience.

‘We have been working on the music scoresheet written by the writer and the arranger of the play, orchestrating the performance of this play. I assure the audience of a captivating performance different from what they have experienced,’ Mofopefoluwa said at the performance rehearsal.

However, Olamide Oladapo, the producer of the opera and daughter of the director, assured that the performance will also feature something special, while urging the audience to be on the lookout.

‘This is a satire and total theatre: dancing, acting, singing, with actors saying their lines in the form of songs,’ she said.

‘This will captivate and engage the audience. And I would like to add that we have something special coming on stage. I want everyone to watch out and come and see,’ Olamide, a Theatre Arts graduate, said.

She invites all to visit Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, Lagos from October 18-19, 2025, between 3pm and 6pm to see the highly anticipated opera performance.

The Obidient Movement has called on President Bola Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, the Department of State Services, DSS, and other security agencies to arrest and prosecute the Lagos State Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, Adekunle Mustapha aka Sego.

It said that Sego should be arrested and prosecuted for threatening to kill anybody who votes against the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State in 2027.

Reacting to a video showing Sego issuing the threat, the movement said Sego’s action is part of desperate attempts engineered by the APC because the party does not have the voting strength nor popular support to win free and fair elections in Lagos State.

The statement signed by the Movement’s National Coordinator, Tanko Yunusa, read: ‘The attention of the Obidient Movement has been drawn to comments, well captured on video, by the Lagos State Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers Adekunle Mustapha aka Sego.

‘In summary, the said Sego, who masquerades as a Labour Union leader, threatened to kill anyone who votes against the APC in Lagos, during the next elections, scheduled for 2027.

‘The Obidient Movement recalls with grief and sadness, the violence unleashed by this same NURTW members and other thugs, during the 2023 elections, on Nigerian voters in Lagos, particularly members of the Obidient Movement and supporters of Mr. Peter Obi and the Labour Party, resulting in the recorded killing and maiming of so many. ‘There is no doubt whatsoever that these threats and acts of murder and brigandage are desperate attempts engineered by the APC, realising that they do not have the voting strength nor popular support to win any elections, free and fair in Lagos, as with generally across the country, having failed to deliver good governance arising from their questionable mandate in the 2023 elections. ‘Over the years, actions of murder, thuggery, political violence, extortion and other criminal acts have continued to be associated and even accepted as part of the operation of the NURTW in Lagos.

‘We are by this statement calling the attention of President Bola Tinubu, who bears statutory and historical responsibility for this development, the Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Police, DSS, Military and all other security agencies to immediately effect the arrest, detention and prosecution of this NURTW Chairman, and all others who have been long involved in the perpetration of these threats, murders and politically related criminal acts.’

Yunusa also called the attention of the international community to Sego’s threats.

‘We are also putting the International Community on notice, of these crimes against humanity and threats to peace in Nigeria, and those legally responsible, by their actions and inactions,’ he added.