Category: Business Day

The Federal Housing Authority (FHA) Mortgage Bank has announced a growth plan aimed at deepening access to housing finance in Nigeria, with targets to grow its loan portfolio to N100 billion and expand mortgage services to 100,000 families within the next three years.

Hayatudeen Auwal, the bank’s Managing Director, disclosed this on Tuesday at the commissioning of its new head office in Abuja, noting that the expansion drive will include the establishment of 20 new branches nationwide.

He explained that the strategy is aimed at expanding access to mortgage financing while sustaining the bank’s record of financial discipline. ‘We intend to establish at least 20 branches nationwide in the next three years, grow our active customer base to 100,000 families, and scale our loan portfolio to N100bn. With the support of our Chairman, the entire housing development financing window has been opened to support the FHA Mortgage Bank.

‘The dream of bridging Nigeria’s housing finance gap and supporting the Federal Government’s housing delivery agenda is alive. Today, I’m proud to say we have not only sustained that dream but expanded it, turning vision into measurable progress. Our key achievement is being the number one collaborator with the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria,’

According to Auwal, the bank has already achieved significant milestones, including facilitating over N27bn in mortgages for 3,427 Nigerians across the federation and enabling more than 6,000 citizens to access mortgage loans through the PENCOM retirement savings window. He stressed that the bank’s credibility rests on its consistency in meeting obligations, a factor that has earned it trust within the financial sector.

‘From the National Housing Fund, despite accessing a huge loan portfolio, we have never defaulted. We have never defaulted in making repayments, and we have never defaulted in meeting our objectives,’ he said.

The FHA Mortgage Bank boss further emphasised that housing finance remains central to achieving the government’s broader economic vision.

‘Thanks to Mr President, who has challenged Nigerians to envision a $1 trillion economy, we believe the housing sector is well-positioned to contribute to that goal. With the effort and commitment of our Chairman, FHA Mortgage Bank will play its part in achieving it,’

As part of its growth agenda, the bank is also preparing to launch a Diaspora Mortgage Project to help Nigerians abroad own homes back home, while exploring partnerships with pension funds, insurers, and international development agencies. Auwal added that efforts are ongoing to secure a national banking licence.

‘We are aiming to become a national bank. The Central Bank of Nigeria has already been informed and has given us a checklist of outstanding requirements. With our commitment, we are confident that before long, FHA Mortgage Bank will attain national bank status.’

Uba Sani, the executive Governor of Kaduna State, has approved the 100 per cent implementation of the revised 2024 CONMESS and CONHESS, worth over ?518 million monthly and ?6.2 billion annually, a move that ended more than a decade of stagnation in health workers’ pay and restored dignity to medical practice.

Health sector unions in Kaduna State, through a joint press conference, have commended Governor Uba Sani for what they described as historic reforms that have transformed the state’s healthcare system. These were the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (AMLSN), and the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU).

The unions hailed directives for local councils to begin payment of 60 per cent CONHESS for primary healthcare staff, automatic employment of 2025 Kaduna State University medical graduates as House Officers, and the reintroduction of a three-year bond system for state-sponsored medical students and resident doctors. They also praised infrastructural strides, including a new 300-bed specialist hospital, renovation of 15 general hospitals, revitalisation of 200 primary healthcare centres, construction of oxygen plants and baby-care units across senatorial zones, procurement of advanced equipment and ambulances, and annual recruitment of 1,800 health workers.

‘Governor Sani has restored confidence, strengthened retention, and positioned Kaduna as a model for others to emulate,’ the unions declared.

In a significant event for cultural diplomacy, the documentary film ‘Uru Igba Boi’ (The Value of Apprenticeship) took centre stage at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Lagos on 19 September. The screening was part of a high-level symposium on Nigeria-China cooperation, organised by the NIIA and the Chinese Consulate, which focused on fostering economic and cultural ties through film. The presence of senior officials from the Chinese Embassy and key stakeholders from the Igba Boi ecosystem highlighted the documentary’s importance as a means for international dialogue.

A Triumphant Project and Its Visionary Creator

This show was a crowning achievement for the film’s producer, Ijeoma T.M. Richards, a seasoned Nollywood figure with numerous acting credits.

For Richards, the project marked a fulfilling return to her first love: documentary filmmaking. She has long aspired to leverage her intellect and talent beyond acting, aiming to tell meaningful stories that illuminate Nigerian culture.

Uru Igba Boi is the realisation of that dream. The one-hour, twenty-two-minute film explores the highly successful Igbo apprenticeship system from Eastern Nigeria, examining its processes and significant influence.

The documentary has received notable recognition, being selected for various international film festivals and earning numerous esteemed awards.

Finalist for best documentary at Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival TINFF, 2025)

Honourable Mention at Hollywood Independent Filmmaker Awards and Festival (2024)

Official selection at the Alpine Frames Film Festival, Switzerland (2025)

Best actress in a supporting role, Nigerian Women Achievers Awards 2025

Official Selection at the I-Represent International Documentary and Bayelsa International Film Festivals (2025) Ijeoma Richards at the Nigeria-China forum.

Capturing a Cornerstone of Entrepreneurship

The documentary examines the Igba Boi system by visiting markets across Nigeria and hearing directly from its beneficiaries. It explores how the system has been fundamental to the Igbo people’s recognition as celebrated businesspeople worldwide.

Ms Richards told BusinessDay, ‘Although I am an award-winning actor and filmmaker who has primarily worked on feature films, documentaries are my true passion. Uru Igba-boi is my first feature documentary project, and it is the first of many more I plan to produce.

She added, ‘What an eye-opening journey this has been for me. My curiosity and desire to unravel and understand how things work is what draws me to documentaries. For a while, I have been fixated on deciding which story to tell, until one day, while I was with my eldest sister, I realised I wanted to know and understand how these quietly successful and focused Igbo businesspeople became who they are and what makes them so confident in their quiet, unassuming ways. I found that the common denominator was the training they all received, which is Igba-boi. The project started in 2023, so it is not new. It is only just beginning to gain traction and attention.

When the idea first came to me and I was satisfied with my initial questions, I shared my thoughts with my eldest sister, Chinwe Ifechigha, who I was with at the time. She said, ‘You should start the project immediately and not waste time, before it grows cold in your mind.’ Then she handed me a book she has on the subject of Igba-boi.’

At the NIIA symposium, the film sparked an expert debate on the system’s role as a driver of entrepreneurship and economic development. Chief Ngozi Emechebe, President of ASPAMDA and a prominent figure in the film, powerfully described Igba Boi as ‘God’s divine intervention for the Igbo race.’

He shared his personal journey, which began at the age of ten, following the Civil War. ‘I saw my dad bury his money because of the ‘only 20 pounds’ policy,’ he recalled.

‘I didn’t want to do boi-boi. I thought I was coming to Lagos for other things. I passed the Common Entrance Examination, and my name appeared on the list published in The Renaissance newspaper.’

Initially reluctant, Emechebe now passionately advocates for the system, noting, ‘You are subject to learning. It builds a culture of hard work. Your master opens his secrets to you. You learn practically. There is also mentorship.’ Ijeoma Richards, CEO Trimm Network/ producer Uru Igba-boi, Ms Yan Yuqing, Consul General of China, Maimuna Abaji Yahaya, CEO Mesba Arts Studios and producer of Traditions, Prof. Efem Ubi of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA.

A System Formalised: Timely Legislative Context

The documentary’s release is especially timely. On 10 September 2025, the Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Law came into force, officially recognising and regulating this traditional practice for the first time. The new law establishes a legal framework, including written agreements, a maximum seven-year training period, and a dedicated commission for oversight-modern protections designed to preserve the cultural practice while preventing exploitation.

Barrister Leo Chiegboka, Anambra State Liaison Officer, commended the documentary and described it as timely, considering the recently passed law on Igba-boi. He shared copies of the Anambra Igbo Apprenticeship Law and delivered a speech at the event.

The Filmmaker: Ijeoma Richards

Ijeoma Richards is a Nigerian actress, film producer, and President of the Nollywood Creative Minds Forum (NCMF). An MBA holder from the University of Lagos, her notable acting works include Malaysian Wives (nominated for the 2018 AMVCA) and Unforgivable (2023).

A firm advocate of professionalism, she advises aspiring actors to concentrate on refining their craft-excellent diction and delivery-rather than depending on a ‘pretty face.’ Describing herself as an introvert who enjoys books and quiet company, Richards also co-owns a property business in Lekki. She remains committed to her passion for documentary filmmaking, reinforcing her reputation as a thoughtful and versatile creative force.

Challenges included an accident caused by a careless driver that resulted in a two-month layoff, as well as respondents who initially agreed to interviews but declined at the last minute.

It has been positive overall.

‘The documentary, although there is still more ground to cover, has received impressive acceptance, particularly from the Igbo community. Yes, there has been positive feedback, with people requesting that more aspects of the system be documented. Members involved in the Igba-boi system are very interested in the project and have requested additional screenings. Some business owners from the Igba-boi system attended the recent screening at the Nigeria-China Cooperation Symposium on September 18, 2025, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA).’

Ijeoma Richards is optimistic. ‘Working on this project has shown me how much we are empowered to tell our own story. We are more focused on the fleeting and losing the privilege of curating the wealth entrusted to us as a people. As for soft power, we need to learn more than a thing or two

from Hollywood. It’s the loudest example of soft power I can give. That industry told the world what to think, and it succeeded tremendously.

‘I’ll say go for it! Tell your own story, your own way, in whatever language you speak. The world has a place for you. And if you don’t, someone with

a camera will come, tell it their way, and you most likely won’t like it.’

You can expect to watch Uru Igba Boi at your convenience soon. Ijeoma Richards states, ‘The next step is distribution, which is already in process.’

Cornerstone Insurance Plc, one of Nigeria’s leading insurance providers has taken over the annuity business of defunct Niger Insurance Plc, and will continue to pay its customers on the scheme.

Niger Insurance Plc’s operational license was cancelled in June 2022 by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and handed over to liquidators following the Company’s insolvency and inability to meet its contractual obligations.

Stephen Alangbo, group managing director/CEO of Cornerstone Insurance Plc made the disclosure while addressing annuitants and stakeholders at the Company’s Annuity Forum held in Abuja.

He noted that Cornerstone Insurance Plc has successfully taken over the annuity payments of former Niger Insurance Plc customers, following regulatory approval. Speaking on the Company’s Annuity Program, Alangbo reassured Nigerian retirees of its unwavering commitment to reliability, transparency, and service excellence.

He emphasized the company’s solid financial standing and its readiness to continue delivering on its promises. He stated, ‘Our annuitants represent the trust our customers continue to place in us, the commitment of our people, and the strength of our vision. We are building a future-ready business, one that remains relevant to individuals, families, and businesses across Nigeria.’

Alangbo also spoke on the implications of the recently signed Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA 2025), which requires significant recapitalization across the industry. He assured annuitants that Cornerstone remains financially secure and ahead of the curve:

‘Subject to confirmation from NAICOM, Cornerstone Insurance Plc does not need to raise additional capital under NIIRA 2025. We are solid, we are transparent, and we are fully able to continue paying your claims without interruption.’

Appreciating the presence of retirees, guests, and members of the press, the CEO reiterated the company’s philosophy of keeping promises and putting customers first:

‘At Cornerstone Insurance Plc, we are not like any other insurance company. We are unique. We are transparent. We keep our promises, and your trust is the foundation of everything we do.’

With over three decades of operations, strong subsidiaries in FIN Insurance and Hilal Takaful, and a reputation for integrity and customer focus, Cornerstone Insurance continues to lead with integrity, innovation, empathy, team spirit and professionalism; reassuring Nigerian retirees that their future remains in safe hands.

The event, which featured health checks, entertainment, quizzes, gifts and refreshments, provided a platform for honest conversations on enhancing customer experience and reaffirming Cornerstone’s leadership in the annuity space.

Cornerstone Insurance is licensed and re-certified by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) to provide both general and life insurance services. As the first insurance company in Nigeria to offer customers an online platform for insurance transactions, its services are driven by cutting-edge technology, making them easily accessible via the internet and mobile platforms.

Sterling Financial Holdings Company PLC (Sterling Holdco), the parent company of The Alternative Bank, Sterling Bank, SterlingFI, and a number of other novel business solutions, has witnessed a very positive response to its public offer, as investors rally for a stake in the company’s future.

The public offer, launched on September 17, 2025, has quickly become one of the most talked-about opportunities in the Nigerian financial market, with analysts predicting that the offer will prove to be amongst the most lucrative in the sector’s investment landscape.

The Sterling Public Offer has sparked widespread interest, with market experts noting that the price, which is about 6% below its current trading price, presents an attractive entry point for both institutional and retail investors. The offer is set to close soon, but the rapid pace of interest has led many to speculate that the full subscription has already been reached or even exceeded much earlier than expected.

According to leading financial analysts, Sterling Holdco’s strategic expansion plans, solid market position, and innovative financial products have positioned it as a major contender in Nigeria’s banking sector. The public offer is widely regarded as an exciting proposition for investors looking to capitalise on a company with strong fundamentals and an ambitious growth trajectory. With a price point set at a discount to current trading prices, the offer is seen as a compelling opportunity for both long-term and short-term investors.

Sterling Holdco has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation and sustainable growth. One of the most compelling indicators of the company’s underlying strength is the impressive growth of its share price. In the past year, the Holding company’s share price has grown steadily from N4.00 to nearly N8.00 per share. This increase in the company’s stock price speaks volumes about the underlying value and confidence in its business model, leadership, and growth trajectory.

Sterling Holdco, known for its strategic ownership of two banks, a wealth management company, and a number of innovative consumer businesses, is seeking to raise additional capital through the issuance of 12.58 billion ordinary shares at N7.00 per share. The proceeds from the public offer will be strategically deployed to further strengthen Holdco’s capital base and fund its growth initiatives over the next 36 months.

Sterling Financial Holdings Company PLC (Sterling HoldCo) is a leading Nigerian financial services group committed to enriching lives through innovation and impact with a diversified portfolio that includes Sterling Bank Limited, The Alternative Bank Limited, SterlingFI Wealth Management among others. As a HoldCo, Sterling provides strategic direction, governance, and resources across its subsidiaries, enabling each to focus on its core mandate while benefiting from group-wide expertise, technology, and oversight.

With a heritage of trust built over six decades, Sterling HoldCo is committed to financial innovation, advancing inclusion, and shaping sustainable growth in Nigeria’s economy. The group champions customer-focused solutions and socially responsible initiatives while creating value for shareholders, employees, and the communities it serves, and continues to pioneer offerings across its core businesses in banking, payments, and technology-driven financial services.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to establish an endowment fund for the creative sector following the completion of the National Theatre, now renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts.

Speaking at the official reopening of the iconic facility in Lagos, the President said he would personally contribute to the proposed fund, which is aimed at supporting long-term growth and sustainability in Nigeria’s creative industry. Tinubu also urged citizens to shift their mindset, emphasising the importance of telling positive stories about Nigeria and fostering belief in the country’s potential.

CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, speaking at the event, revealed that the Bankers’ Committee invested N68 billion in the restoration and modernisation of the National Theatre complex.

The federal government has successfully brokered an agreement between the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the management of Dangote Petroleum Refinery, leading to a decision to call off the association’s strike action and redeploy disengaged workers of the refinery.

The reconciliatory meetings at the instance of the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, had become necessary following the PENGASSAN’s directive to members to stop gas supply to Dangote Petroleum Refinery and withdrawal their services over what was described as the unlawful termination of over 800 of its members by the refinery’s management.

As contained in communique signed by all parties at the end of the meeting, Dingyadi informed the meeting that unionisation was a right of workers in accordance with the laws of Nigeria and that this right should be respected.

The communique stated that after examining the procedure used in the disengagement of workers, the meeting agreed that the management of Dangote Group shall immediately start the process of taking the disengaged staff to other companies within the Dangote Group, with no loss of pay.

‘Whereas the leadership of PENGASSAN said that the directives given to stop the supply of gas to Dangote Petroleum and withdrawal of services was in response to the termination of appointment of over Eight Hundred members of PENGASSAN by the management of the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Limited, the management of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical on the other hand, explained the reason for disengagement of the workers was as a result of the ongoing reorganization in the company. ‘No worker will be victimised arising from their role in the impasse between Dangote and PENGASSAN.

‘PENGASSAN agreed to start the process of calling off the strike. Both parties agreed to this understanding in good faith,’ it stated.

The conciliation was attended by high-ranking officials of government, including the National Security Adviser; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning; Minister of State for Labour and Employment; Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS); Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA); Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, representing the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas); as well as the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Also present were the chief executives of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), alongside representatives of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the leadership of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the President and Secretary-General of PENGASSAN.

Calls for sweeping constitutional and institutional reforms to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy dominated the National Electoral Reforms Summit 2025, where political leaders and reform advocates warned that without urgent action, the 2027 elections may lack legitimacy.

The summit themed, ‘Critical Constitutional Amendments for Credible Elections in 2027’ and convened virtually by the National Consultative Front and the Labour and Civil Society Front, featured interventions from former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi, former lawmaker Usman Bugaje, political economist Pat Utomi, former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili, and Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate.

Amaechi struck a pessimistic note, insisting that politicians in power would never willingly carry out reforms that weaken their hold on office.

‘There is absolutely nothing anybody can do about electoral reform in Nigeria under the present government,’ he said. ‘Politicians will not do that. Why would they, when politics has become a source of income for them? Electoral reform would mean taking power back to the people, so that votes can hire and fire. They don’t want that.’

Bugaje reinforced Amaechi’s warning, pointing to widespread electoral manipulation and judicial complicity. ‘This regime has shown that they are not even prepared to conduct an election,’ he said, citing recent polls in Kaduna where results were announced before ballots were cast.

‘The 2027 election as things stand is not going to be won or lost at the ballot box. It’s going to be won or lost on the streets of Nigeria. We must begin to organize to resist those who are hell-bent on staying in power irrespective of the votes Nigerians cast.’

Utomi, however, emphasised that the survival of Nigeria’s democracy depends on restoring legitimacy through credible elections. ‘A government that is perceived as lacking legitimacy will never be effective in governing,’ he said.

‘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 also urged international pressure on Nigeria’s political class. ‘We should internationalise this problem to the point that our country could face isolation. Sadly, many of us helped bring Nigeria to pariah status in the past, but sometimes shame is necessary to pull back from the brink.’ He accused Nigeria’s legal profession of betraying democracy: ‘Nigerian lawyers are the shame of Africa. Judges have behaved like they didn’t go to school. We must not betray the essence of our professionalism for crumbs.’

Ezekwesili laid out a detailed framework for reform, stressing INEC’s financial and operational independence, mandatory electronic transmission of results, and stronger prosecutorial powers to punish electoral offenses.

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

She also pressed for transparent appointment of INEC commissioners, expanded timelines for voter registration and candidate nominations, and stronger oversight of result collation.

The former minister criticised what she described as enabling ‘courtroom democracy.’ ‘Elections are being decided in court rather than at the polling station,’ she said.

‘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 her, the ultimate solution lies in mass citizen action. ‘The political class does not care about a few elites talking about reforms. What they fear is when Nigerians themselves take ownership of the struggle for credible elections. For as long as our electoral system is a mess, it continues to destroy lives and futures. We must get citizens to say: this is the hill we are prepared to die on,’ she said.

Obi also lending his voice to the reform agenda. ‘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.’

The former Anambra governor added the electoral reform should also discourage cross-carpet by politicians, proposing that any politician who jump party after winning election should lose his seat.

The summit ended with consensus that achieving meaningful reforms before 2027 will require citizen-driven pressure, civil society mobilisation, and a collective refusal to accept compromised elections as the norm.

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum acknowledged the challenges the country has faced over the past six and a half decades, but emphasised that Nigeria has consistently emerged stronger. He called for continued unity, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence amongst its citizens.

Zulum congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other Nigerians on Wednesday on the occasion of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day Celebration.

The Governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and continued support to the armed forces and other security agencies involved in counter-insurgency operations in the North East, particularly in Borno State. Zulum, in a statement he personally signed, also expressed commitment to providing peace and development to Borno, stating, ‘We will not rest. We will not be complacent. We will continue to work, strive more, and fight for a Borno where everyone can dream of a better life, every farmer can till their land, our industries can thrive, and every family can sleep in peace.’

Governor Zulum’s full statement below:

‘As we join our brothers and sisters across the country to mark the 65th anniversary of our independence. We celebrate the Nigerian nation’s freedom, unity, and resilience. But on this day, our reflections in Borno are particularly profound. Our journey has been uniquely tested, yet our hope remains unbroken.’

‘It is indeed worth celebrating 65 years of nationhood as an indivisible nation. Despite the threats of insecurity, such as Boko Haram, ISWAP, and other criminal elements, our gallant military officers and security forces are winning the battle. We must unite as a people to fight the common enemy.’

‘We remember with solemn gratitude the sacrifices of our gallant men and women in uniform, the military, the police, the Civilian JTF, and all security agencies who have paid the ultimate price to keep us safe. We honour the memory of our sons and daughters, fathers and mothers, who were lost to the insurgency.’

‘ Let me use this opportunity to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and continued support to the armed forces and other security agencies involved in counter-insurgency operations in the North East, particularly in Borno State.

‘Our primary and most sacred duty has been the restoration of peace and security. We adopted a multi-faceted approach, understanding that a purely kinetic solution is not enough.’

‘We have consistently and directly supported our security forces. From providing hundreds of operational vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, and sophisticated communication and other operational gadgets to consistently visiting difficult frontline locations, so that we ensure that our troops are motivated and better equipped to face the enemy. We have built and renovated accommodations for our security operatives, among many other supports.’

‘Peace cannot be complete without restoration. Therefore, we have undertaken the most ambitious resettlement programme in Nigeria. We have successfully closed all the official internally displaced persons (IDP) camps within Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, moving our people from a state of dependency to dignity and self-reliance.’

‘We have supported the safe and voluntary return of a significant number of our displaced population to their ancestral homes by providing them with livelihood packages. We have constructed thousands of resettlement houses across local government areas, providing shelter for returnees.’ ‘We have rebuilt critical infrastructure, including hundreds of healthcare centres, primary and secondary schools, ensuring that our children can learn and our sick can be treated in their communities.’

‘Dear Citizens of Borno, our vision extends beyond survival to prosperity. We are laying the foundation for a post-insurgency economy.

‘Our administration’s peacebuilding and recovery efforts are greatly succeeding. The integrated policies, designed to address the root causes of insurgency, build community resilience, and promote reconciliation, have been fruitful.

Trade and Commerce as a cornerstone, we have reestablished and upgraded to an international standard our cattle markets in Gamboru Nagal, Banki and the one in Kasuwan Shanu in Jere Local Government Area.’ ‘We are pursuing the establishment of the African Inter-Continental Free Trade Zone in Banki and a Dry Inland Port in Maiduguri. We have invested a lot of resources to support the federal government’s initiative of international operations at Muhammadu Buhari Airport. These, among other strategic plans we have drawn, will significantly boost the economy of our state and create several employment opportunities.’

‘Through our various empowerment schemes, we have provided startup capital, tools, and training to tens of thousands of our youths and women, turning them from victims into entrepreneurs and employers of labour.’

We have constructed and equipped modern and specialised hospitals, two nursing colleges, and recruited hundreds of healthcare professionals to bring quality medical services to our people. Our world-class Kashim Ibrahim University Teaching Hospital will soon be activated.’

‘We have invested hugely in the education sector, recruited over 4,000 teachers and renovated schools across the state. Our scholarship programmes have sent thousands of Borno indigenes to universities at home and abroad, investing in the human capital that will drive our future.’

‘In the agricultural sector, we have distributed thousands of tonnes of fertiliser, improved seeds, and agricultural machinery to our farmers. We have revived some sections of the South Chad Irrigation Project, enabling the cultivation of thousands of hectares of land and moving us towards food sufficiency.’

‘My dear people, the journey is not over. Challenges remain. We still face the threat of remnant terrorists. But there is a gradual return to peace in Borno. Many of our communities have reestablished themselves, our markets are bustling, and our farms are again yielding bountiful harvests.’

‘On this Independence Day, let us draw strength from our collective resilience. Let us renew our commitment to unity, peace, and the progress of Borno State within a prosperous Nigeria.’

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has confirmed that Somtochukwu Maduagwu, a correspondent with Arise News jumped from the third floor of her Katampe apartment during an armed robbery attack on Monday, September 29.

Ajao Adewale, Police Commissioner, disclosed the details on Wednesday during a live appearance on Arise Television, where he described the incident as ‘tragic and very unfortunate.’

According to eyewitnesses and vigilantes within the compound, Maduagwu jumped from the third storey of the three-floor residential building, identified as Unique Apartments, while trying to escape the attackers.

‘She landed on the concrete pavement and was found unconscious in critical condition before being rushed to Maitama General Hospital.

Confirming the events that led to her tragic death, Adewale said police officers arrived at the scene to find the journalist unconscious.

‘Policemen moved to the scene and found her lying unconscious. She was immediately taken to Maitama General Hospital, where doctors tried to resuscitate her using CPR, but sadly, she could not make it,’ he said.

The police commissioner explained that the armed robbers had gained access to the apartment complex, a twin three-storey building with 18 flats located around the Gishiri axis of Katampe, under the Mabushi Division. Two private security guards were on duty at the time of the attack. One of them reportedly attempted to resist the robbers but sustained a gunshot injury in the process.

‘In the panic that followed, Sommie, who lived on the topmost floor of the building, jumped down from the third storey. The consequences were tragic and very unfortunate,’ Adewale said.

He further revealed that a special investigation team, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Investigation), had been constituted to track down the perpetrators.

‘We have set up a specific investigation team headed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Investigation, with all tactical units involved to track down the culprits.

‘The leads we are getting are already being worked on, and no stone will be left unturned until the perpetrators are brought to justice,’ he assured.

The commissioner extended condolences on behalf of the command to Maduagwu’s family, her colleagues at Arise News, and Nigerians who have been deeply shaken by the incident.

‘The FCT Command once again commiserates with the family of Sommie, the Arise News family, and Nigerians deeply touched by this ugly and disturbing incident,’ Adewale said.