Category: Business Day

Could it be said that Nigeria’s true identity today represents a country suffering and grappling with soaring inflation, mass unemployment, failing public infrastructure and multidimensional poverty despite almost three decades of enormous public revenue inflows? With the look of things, one question therefore deserves urgent national attention. Without missing any words, what exactly has government at all levels done with the trillions of naira shared through the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC)?

One obvious fact is that since the return to democratic governance in 1999, Nigeria has witnessed a remarkable expansion in federal revenue sharing since the existence of this country.

Findings based on monthly allocations reported by FAAC and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that over the past 27 years, the FAAC has distributed an estimated N160 trillion among the Federal Government, the 36 states and the 774 local governments. The obvious here is that the figure represents one of the largest transfers of public resources in Nigeria’s history.

One would definitely assume that, since the removal of the fuel subsidy in June 2023, government revenues have risen dramatically. Not to miss out on other gains from crude oil earnings, statutory revenue, Value Added Tax (VAT), exchange-rate adjustments, electronic money transfer levies, customs collections and other federally collected revenues, resulting in unprecedented monthly FAAC allocations.

In 10 years alone, FAAC distributed approximately N25.58 trillion to the three tiers of government, with states and the FCT receiving about N13.8 trillion during the period. One would also wonder that since President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, more than N56 trillion has been distributed through FAAC.

Surprisingly, amidst it all, in just over three years, President Tinubu’s administration has presided over FAAC distributions amounting to approximately 35 percent of the estimated N160 trillion shared since the return to democracy in 1999. In other words, more than one in every three naira ever distributed through FAAC over 27 years has been shared under the current administration. But this recent figure represents only a fraction of the larger national story.

The more important question is not simply how much money has been shared. The question is what Nigeria has built with more than N160 trillion in public allocations over nearly three decades.

What is of concrete concern is that the sheer size of N160 trillion is difficult to comprehend until placed beside Nigeria’s major economic indicators.

Nigeria’s total public debt stood at approximately N149.39 trillion as of March 31, 2025. This means that the estimated FAAC allocations shared since 1999 are larger than the country’s entire current debt stock. While FAAC funds cannot directly be compared with debt because they serve different fiscal purposes, the comparison highlights a critical reality that shows that Nigeria has generated and distributed enormous financial resources, yet still carries one of Africa’s largest debt burdens.

The comparison with national budgets is equally revealing. Come to think of it, Nigeria’s proposed N58.18 trillion 2026 budget represents one of the largest annual spending plans in the country’s history, whilst the cumulative FAAC allocations since 1999 are equivalent to almost three times the size of Nigeria’s 2026 federal budget.

No doubt, the implication is profound. A country that has shared resources equivalent to several annual national budgets should reasonably demonstrate significant improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, electricity, industrialisation and citizens’ welfare. But the reality remains different.

One thing is obvious today and cannot be disputed by the political players, both past and present is that Nigeria continues to struggle with poor roads, unreliable electricity, inadequate healthcare facilities, overcrowded classrooms, high unemployment and widespread poverty.

The truth is that the comparison becomes even more striking when looking at specific sectors as this would provide a clearer picture. Considering that Nigeria’s recent proposed 2026 budget allocates approximately N3.52 trillion for education, N2.48 trillion for health and N3.56 trillion for infrastructure, bringing the combined allocation for these three critical sectors to about N9.56 trillion. While the estimated N160 trillion shared through FAAC since 1999 is more than 16 times the combined 2026 federal allocation for education, health and infrastructure.

This raises a fundamental question: if Nigeria has received resources sufficient to finance these strategic sectors multiple times over, why do citizens continue to experience declining social services?

The comparison with capital investment is also significant. Nigeria’s proposed 2026 capital expenditure of N26.08 trillion is only a fraction of the estimated FAAC allocations shared since 1999. Had a substantial portion of these revenues been consistently channelled into productive capital projects, Nigeria could have developed world-class transportation networks, reliable electricity systems, modern healthcare facilities, industrial clusters and globally competitive education infrastructure.

That is the scale of the opportunity Nigeria has had. Instead, millions of Nigerians continue asking a painful question: Where is the evidence?

Economic theory is straightforward. When governments receive large financial resources, citizens expect corresponding improvements in their standard of living. Public revenue exists to create public value, not merely to finance government administration. Imagine what N160 trillion could have achieved if strategically invested over 27 years.

Nigeria has an estimated housing deficit exceeding 28 million units. A sustained investment programme using only a fraction of FAAC resources could have delivered millions of affordable homes while creating massive employment opportunities across construction, cement, steel, furniture and logistics industries.

Strategic agricultural investment could have transformed Nigeria into a food-secure nation through irrigation systems, mechanised farming, storage facilities, rural roads and agro-processing industries.

Investment in healthcare could have ensured that every local government has functional primary healthcare centres equipped with trained personnel, essential medicines and modern facilities.

Education could have been completely transformed through improved teacher training, digital learning infrastructure, modern classrooms, research facilities and expanded access to quality education.

Nigeria’s electricity challenge could have received far greater attention through investments in transmission networks, renewable energy, gas-powered generation and embedded power solutions that would reduce the cost burden on businesses and households.

A significant portion of FAAC resources invested in small and medium-sized enterprises could have created millions of jobs, expanded local production and strengthened Nigeria’s private sector.

None of these ambitions were beyond Nigeria’s financial capacity. The resources existed. The challenge has been utilisation.

Across many states, FAAC has gradually become less of a development catalyst and more of a monthly survival mechanism. Salaries, recurrent expenditure, political appointments, administrative costs and government overheads consume substantial portions of public resources, while capital projects remain insufficient.

The dependence on FAAC has also discouraged many states from aggressively developing sustainable internally generated revenue. Many states still depend heavily on federal allocations, weakening fiscal innovation and reducing accountability. A system where governments wait monthly for federal transfers creates little incentive to build productive economies.

Ironically, decades of increased allocations have coincided with worsening economic realities. Food prices continue rising. Millions remain unemployed or underemployed. Hospitals struggle with inadequate equipment. Schools remain overcrowded. Roads continue deteriorating. Manufacturers battle high energy costs. Businesses continue closing. Families spend more of their income meeting basic needs.

This contradiction raises serious governance questions. In Nigeria’s case, painfully, revenue growth does not automatically create development. Development requires transparency, accountability, strategic planning and effective implementation.

Nigeria must therefore move beyond celebrating monthly FAAC figures and begin measuring the outcomes generated from those resources.

Every month Nigerians hear announcements of billions and trillions shared among governments. But rarely do they hear: How many hospitals were completed? How many schools were renovated? How many kilometres of roads were delivered? How many jobs were created? How many communities gained access to clean water? How many businesses were supported?

Revenue announcements must never replace performance reports. Every state and local government should publish transparent FAAC utilisation reports showing allocations received, projects funded, costs, locations and measurable outcomes.

Technology makes this possible. Open budgeting platforms, public expenditure dashboards and digital monitoring systems can ensure citizens know how their resources are being deployed.

Transparency should no longer be optional. The Federal Government equally has a responsibility.

Higher revenues must translate into improved national infrastructure, stronger institutions, better security, industrial growth and enhanced social protection.

Nigeria cannot continue borrowing heavily while simultaneously receiving record public revenues without demonstrating corresponding developmental outcomes.

Public finance is not simply about collecting money. It is about creating lasting value. Roads improve commerce. Electricity supports industries. Education increases productivity. Healthcare strengthens human capital. Agriculture reduces dependence on imports. Digital infrastructure enhances competitiveness. These are investments that create future prosperity.

When public revenue is consumed mainly by recurrent obligations, future generations inherit debts without corresponding assets.

Nigeria must strengthen accountability institutions, including auditors-general, public accounts committees, anti-corruption agencies and civil society organisations, to monitor how FAAC resources are utilised.

Citizens also have a responsibility. Public money belongs to the people. Communities must demand evidence of projects funded by government resources.

The tragedy of Nigeria is not simply a shortage of revenue. It is the failure to convert revenue into development. Nigeria has demonstrated remarkable ability to generate public income. What remains lacking is the political discipline and institutional capacity to transform that income into national prosperity.

The estimated N160 trillion shared through FAAC since 1999 represented a historic opportunity to rebuild Nigeria’s economy and improve citizens’ lives.

Millions of jobs could have been created. Infrastructure could have been transformed. Poverty could have been reduced. Investor confidence could have strengthened. Living standards could have improved.

Instead, many Nigerians continue to experience economic hardship despite decades of enormous public revenue distribution.

History will not judge governments by how much FAAC they received. History will judge them by what those allocations built.

The real question is no longer whether Nigeria has enough money. The question is whether Nigeria has the leadership, accountability and political will to convert public wealth into public prosperity. Not to focus on using the FAAC as an electoral tool to weaponize the opposition. Until that happens, N160 trillion in FAAC allocations will remain a symbol of missed opportunity rather than a foundation for national transformation.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has pledged to complete the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility at the Victor Attah International Airport while also assuring that Ibom Air will soon boost its fleet with a new Airbus 220-300.

The governor made the commitment during high-level meetings with SAMCO Group Europe and Airbus in Montreal, Canada, ahead of the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) of Ibom Air’s latest brand-new Airbus A220-300 aircraft.

The engagements focused on developing the technical and maintenance capabilities required to support Ibom Air’s expanding fleet and strengthen Akwa Ibom’s position in the aviation industry.

Governor Eno first met with Constant Van Shani, Chief Executive Officer of SAMCO Group Europe, to explore a strategic partnership for the management and operation of the MRO facility.

He said the administration was seeking a practical partnership that would strengthen the State’s aviation infrastructure, enhance technical capabilities, create skilled employment and develop a sustainable local aviation workforce.

In a statement made available to the media, the Governor, who noted that his administration had made substantial financial investments in completing the MRO facility, was quoted to have stressed that the proposed relationship should go beyond conventional consultancy, with discussions covering maintenance and technical support for aircraft, particularly those in the Ibom Air fleet, as well as technical training, technology transfer and capacity building.

SAMCO also presented its experience working with African airlines and highlighted the importance of developing strong local technical capabilities.

Governor Eno said building indigenous aviation expertise would reduce dependence on overseas maintenance facilities, strengthen the MRO at Victor Attah International Airport and create opportunities for highly skilled aviation professionals in Akwa Ibom.

Responding, SAMCO CEO, Constant Van Shani, welcomed the Governor’s commitment to the proposed partnership, saying: ‘Governor, we are glad to know that you are willing to work with us. We are here to get it done beyond consulting.’

In a related development, Governor Eno met with Hadi Akoum, Vice President of Sales, Africa, Airbus, and expressed appreciation to the aircraft manufacturer for its partnership with Ibom Air and its efforts to facilitate the delivery of the new aircraft.

The Governor assured Airbus that the State Government remained fully committed to Ibom Air, describing the airline as a strategic economic asset to Akwa Ibom.

According to him, Ibom Air is central to the administration’s plans to expand tourism, connectivity, trade and investment, stressing that ‘it is a forex-denominated business, and airlines must be made to function.’

He said the State would continue to make the necessary strategic investments to ensure the airline remains commercially viable, operationally strong and capable of supporting the state’s wider economic ambitions.

Akoum described Ibom Air as a major Airbus customer in Africa and disclosed that Airbus currently produces about 14 aircraft monthly, with a production backlog of approximately 9,000 aircraft. He also highlighted the capabilities of the A220-300, noting its passenger capacity of about 120 and its cargo capability.

The discussions further reinforced the importance of continued collaboration between Airbus, Ibom Air and the Akwa Ibom State Government as the airline expands its fleet and network.

He said the new A220-300 would further strengthen the airline’s operations and expansion while supporting Akwa Ibom’s tourism, connectivity and broader economic development objectives.

Present at the meetings were the Ibom Air Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, George Uriesi; members of the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council; and relevant officials of the airline.

Ibom Air Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, George Uriesi; members of the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council; and relevant officials of the airline.

Nsikan Patrick Umoh, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG) and Zonal Coordinator, Zone ‘B’, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has commended the Kwara Area Command for its professionalism, discipline and commitment to duty.

A statement signed by Sulaiman Sani Mohammed, Deputy Superintendent of Costume/Public Relation Officer, Umoh gave the commendation during an oversight visit to the command’s headquarters in Ilorin, as part of her ongoing tour of operational commands within Zone ‘B’.

Speaking to officers and men of the command, the zonal coordinator said the Kwara Area Command had maintained an impressive operational record, noting that her headquarters had not received any adverse report against the command since she assumed office.

She said the clean record was an indication of the high level of professionalism, integrity and discipline demonstrated by personnel in the discharge of their responsibilities.

Umoh, who conveyed the goodwill message of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, urged officers to maintain high professional standards and conduct themselves responsibly both on and off duty.

She warned personnel against involvement in illicit drugs and sharp practices, stressing the need for officers to uphold the core values of the Service and protect its reputation.

The ACG also encouraged the officers to promote unity and teamwork, describing them as members of one family working towards a common goal. She assured them of the continued support of the zonal and Service headquarters.

Earlier, N.A. Ogundeyi, Acting Area Controller of the command, Deputy Comptroller in his welcome address, highlighted the command’s achievements, operational milestones and administrative progress under his leadership.

The oversight visit also featured an interactive session between the zonal coordinator and key stakeholders in the trading community, including representatives of freight forwarding associations, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), and major excise factories such as ITC and SANICA.

During the engagement, Umoh commended the cordial relationship and strong synergy between the command and the business community.

She also addressed concerns raised by stakeholders on cargo clearance procedures, examination timelines and the competitiveness of regional trade, providing clarifications on the issues.

The stakeholders welcomed the engagement, which provided an opportunity for both the Service and the business community to discuss ways of improving trade facilitation and strengthening collaboration.

The visit ended with an inspection of the command’s facilities, including its administrative offices, warehouse and residential barracks.

Umoh expressed satisfaction with the level of orderliness, environmental cleanliness and discipline observed across the facilities.

Leaders and stakeholders of Alagbabiri Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State have appealed to the state and Federal Governments to urgently intervene in the lingering boundary dispute between the community and neighbouring communities, alleging recurring attacks, abductions and encroachment on its territory.

The community leaders made the appeal during a media interaction, saying the disputes, which they claimed had persisted for years, had become more worrisome following an alleged attack and abduction of some Alagbabiri youths on August 3, 2026.

Alagbabiri is as a rural community in the Eghwu district of Ughelli South Local Government Area.

Ekpobimi Phili, the President-General of the community, said the community had historically maintained peaceful relations with neighbouring communities, including Oboro, Bomadi and Olota, with residents freely engaging in trade and other social activities.

The discovery of oil in Alagbabiri had changed the nature of relationships among the communities, with disputes over land, boundaries and economic benefits becoming increasingly contentious, he said.

He alleged that neighbouring communities had, on several occasions, crossed into Alagbabiri territory and attacked or abducted members of the community.

The PG recalled an incident in 1995 and alleged that people from Oboro entered Alagbabiri at night, killed residents and destroyed property, including houses worth millions of naira.

He said the situation eventually calmed down after security personnel were deployed to the community for more than a year, allowing residents to resume peaceful relations with neighbouring communities.

Philip said the latest incident involving the alleged abduction of Alagbabiri youths had renewed fears among residents.

‘On August 3, 2026, some Alagbabiri youths who had gone for legitimate business were intercepted by people from Oboro, who allegedly crossed the river separating the communities, captured them and took them away by boat,’ he said.

According to him, the community leadership immediately contacted the Delta State Commissioner of Police, who directed the Divisional Police Officer in Burutu to intervene.

‘They were taken away and detained by individuals from neighbouring communities rather than being handed over to government security agencies,’ he alleged.

Philip, however, acknowledged the interventions of the police, Department of State Services and other authorities, saying their efforts had helped prevent some of the disputes from escalating.

Narrating their ordeal, the two allegedly abducted youths who were taken away during the recent incident described their abduction as very unfortunate and devastating.

One of them, who identified himself as Napolite, said he and his brother had gone into the bush to carry out their normal activities when they were confronted by armed men from Oboro.

He alleged that their hands were tied behind their backs before they were taken away by boat.

According to him, they were subsequently transported to another location, where they were detained for about a day.

Tracing to the origin of the dispute, Captain Philippe Emubosa, a former President-General of the community, said the controversy could not be separated from the history of oil exploration in the area.

He said oil was discovered in the area in 1972, adding that documents available to the community contained historical references to the various communities associated with the disputed territory.

Emubosa alleged that Alagbabiri had been disadvantaged because many of its people were not educated when relevant decisions and arrangements concerning the area were being made.

He said the community had deliberately chosen dialogue instead of confrontation despite the seriousness of the dispute.

We are not troublemakers, and that is why we are bringing this matter in an amicable way so that government should know our pain, he said.

He appealed to the authorities to investigate the historical records and establish the rightful boundaries between the communities.

‘We are appealing to the authorities to investigate the historical records and determine the rightful boundaries of the communities and give us our boundaries,’ Emubosa said.

Moses Enyu Sergent, another community representative, said Alagbabiri had never sought conflict with its neighbours.

He said the River Niger and other waterways had historically separated the communities, adding that residents crossed the waterways for trading and other legitimate activities without necessarily claiming ownership of neighbouring territories.

‘We are appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the government to intervene in the matter and establish the boundaries clearly,’ Sargent said.

‘We don’t want problem, we want peace, let everybody know his own boundary,’ he added.

The community leadership commended security agencies for their interventions, saying the swift response of the police had helped prevent the recent incident from degenerating.

‘As a community, we deliberately chose to seek government intervention rather than resort to self-help.

We are very peaceful people, that’s why we have come here to appeal to the government before this thing gets out of hand,’ Sargent said.

The Edo State Government has vowed to end land racketeering and multiple sales of government-acquired land, warning individuals and community groups against interfering with legitimate developers and investors.

The Managing Director of the Edo State Geographic Information Service (EDOGIS), Innocent Bello, made the disclosure during a press briefing at Oke-Oroma on alleged multiple sales and encroachment on government-acquired land at Obagie-N’Evbuosa.

Bello, who spoke on behalf of the Edo State Government Land Restitution Committee, said the allocation, registration and administration of government-controlled land remained the exclusive responsibility of the state government and its designated institutions.

He said no individual, family, community, traditional group or self-appointed land committee had the authority to allocate or register government land, stressing that historical or traditional claims could not justify the sale or resale of land already acquired by government.

According to him, the government has subjected documents submitted by affected developers to due diligence and, where necessary, forensic examination to establish the authenticity and history of disputed transactions.

Bello said the Restitution Committee was established to resolve genuine grievances arising from land transactions and protect persons who may have acquired interests in land in good faith.

He alleged that some persons who previously sold portions of the disputed land were still attempting to resell the properties or interfere with developers who subsequently acquired legitimate interests.

‘The era of engaging in land racketeering, selling government-acquired land and using land sales as a means of survival is over in Edo State,’ Bello said, warning that the administration’s commitment to due process should not be mistaken for weakness.

He disclosed that Gaius Emokpae, the Okaighele, secretary and other persons linked to the alleged multiple sales had been invited before the committee to account for the transactions, including the dates, sums received and disposition of proceeds.

Bello warned against the harassment or intimidation of legitimate developers, government officials and members of the committee, saying such actions would be referred to security and law-enforcement authorities.

He urged persons with unresolved claims from previous restitution exercises to submit relevant documents to the committee, assuring legitimate investors that the government would protect their interests while safeguarding its land assets against fraudulent sales and encroachment.

Members of the Restitution Committee, developers and other stakeholders attended the briefing.

In this interview with REGIS ANUKWUOJI, Juliet Chiluwe, chief of UNICEF Field Office Enugu and Ngozi Onuora, Nutrition Specialist UNICEF Enugu Field office, spoke on World Breastfeeding Week 2026, with the theme: ‘Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works, the expected role of fathers.’ Excerpts:

Why is World Breastfeeding Week important for Nigeria?

World Breastfeeding Week is opportunity to renew our collective commitment to protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding as one of the most effective investments in child survival, health, nutrition and national development. Although more than 90 percent of Nigerian mothers breastfeed, optimal breastfeeding practices remain below national and global targets. According to the 2023-2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), only 29 percent of infants under six months are exclusively breastfed, while early initiation of breastfeeding within one hour of birth has declined to 36 percent. These figures underscore the urgent need to strengthen proven interventions that support mothers to breastfeed successfully.

What informed the 2026 theme?

The theme, ‘Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,’ encourages countries to strengthen existing systems that have already proven effective in increasing breastfeeding rates. This includes early initiation of breastfeeding within one hour after birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, continued breastfeeding alongside complementary feeding until two years and beyond, baby-friendly hospital initiative, skilled breastfeeding counselling during pregnancy and after delivery, community support groups, family-friendly workplace policies, enforcement of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes.

Rather than reinventing solutions, the focus is on scaling up evidence-based interventions that improve child survival and nutrition.

Why is breastfeeding described as a sustainable investment?

Breastfeeding is environmentally-friendly, naturally renewable and requires no manufacturing, packaging, transportation or waste disposal. It contributes to sustainable development by improving child survival, Preventing malnutrition, Reducing household spending on infant feeding, lowering healthcare costs, supporting children’s cognitive development and future productivity, reducing environmental pollution associated with breastmilk substitutes, healthy children today become healthier, more productive adults tomorrow.

What are UNICEF’s recommendations?

UNICEF and WHO recommend that babies should begin breastfeeding within the first hour after Birth Babies should receive only breastmilk for the first six months, without water or other foods unless medically indicated. From six months, nutritious complementary foods should be introduced while breastfeeding continues until, at least, two years of age and beyond.

Why are exclusive breastfeeding rates still low in Nigeria?

Several factors contribute to low exclusive breastfeeding rates which includes limited access to skilled breastfeeding counselling, harmful myths and misconceptions, pressure from aggressive marketing of breastmilk substitutes, short maternity leave and inadequate workplace support. Lack of family support, poor early initiation after delivery and improving breastfeeding require supportive families, health systems, employers and communities.

UNICEF has been in Nigeria for many years now. Kindly share your areas of focus?

UNICEF supports the Federal and State Governments to Strengthen Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) services. Train healthcare workers in breastfeeding counselling, support baby-friendly health facilities, improve maternal, newborn and child health services, strengthen community-based nutrition programmes. UNICEF also support behaviour and social change communication, advocates for improved maternity protection and workplace breastfeeding policies. We also promote implementation of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk substitutes.

These interventions are helping mothers receive the information and support they need to breastfeed successfully.

May we know some of the activities of UNICEF in the South-East?

Across the South-East, UNICEF works with State Ministries of Health, Primary Health Care Development Agencies and development partners to build the capacity of health workers on Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition, integrate breastfeeding counselling into routine maternal and child health services, support community mobilisation through traditional, religious and community leaders.

Engage youth, including U-Reporters and Young Content Creators, to amplify positive breastfeeding messages.

Strengthen social and behaviour change communication through mass media, digital platforms and community engagement and Improve nutrition services at primary healthcare facilities.

These efforts contribute to improving child survival and nutrition across the region.

What role should fathers play in child breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding is everyone’s responsibility. Fathers should support mothers by encouraging exclusive breastfeeding, helping with household responsibilities. Ensuring mothers receive adequate nutrition and rest, accompanying mothers to health facilities, protecting mothers from misinformation, among others. Evidence shows that mothers are more likely to breastfeed successfully when supported by their families.

What are the expectations from employers?

UNICEF encourages employers to create breastfeeding-friendly workplaces by providing paid maternity leave, breastfeeding breaks, safe lactation rooms, and flexible working arrangements where possible. There should be workplace policies that protect breastfeeding mothers. Supporting breastfeeding benefits employees, employers and society.

What is UNICEF’s advice regarding infant formula?

Breastfeeding remains the best source of nutrition for almost every baby. Infant formula should only be used when medically indicated and under the guidance of qualified health professionals. Parents should receive unbiased information that enables informed decisions without commercial influence.

What are your expectations from the media?

The media are essential partners in improving child nutrition. We expect that journalists should promote accurate breastfeeding information, challenge myths and misinformation, showcase success stories, hold institutions accountable and give voice to mothers and communities. They are also expected to encourage supportive public policies. Responsible reporting contributes directly to healthier children.

What is UNICEF’s key messages during World Breast feeding Week 2026?

UNICEF is calling on governments, health professionals, employers, communities, development partners and families to strengthen what works by investing in proven breastfeeding interventions today. Nigeria can reduce child deaths, improve nutrition, strengthen human capital and give every child a sustainable start in life. Breastfeeding is not only a mother’s responsibility it is a shared responsibility and one of Nigeria’s smartest investments in the future of its children.

Prof. Joash Amupitan, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally declared the #OsunDecides2026 Situation Room closed following the conclusion of the Osun State governorship election and the declaration of the result in the early hours of Sunday.

Amupitan, while addressing staff at the Situation Room, expressed appreciation for their dedication, sacrifice and professionalism throughout the electoral process.

He commended staff at the Commission’s Headquarters, Osun State and Local Government offices, as well as personnel deployed to the field, particularly those who worked at the polling units and members of the technical teams.

Amupitan acknowledged the long hours put in by staff, noting that many sacrificed time with their families and worked under demanding conditions to support the successful conduct of the election and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.

He also attributed the peaceful atmosphere that prevailed during the election to the grace and protection of Almighty God.

The Chairman described the Osun election as a milestone, not a destination, stressing that the lessons and experience gained must inform the Commission’s preparations for the 2027 General Election. He urged staff to sustain a higher level of vigilance, transparency, professionalism and commitment, while maintaining strict neutrality in the discharge of their responsibilities.

He further called on staff to remain committed to the Commission and to recognise the important role INEC plays in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy.

‘Let us learn from our experience, refine our strategies and approach the upcoming national task with renewed vigour and absolute neutrality. Let us remain steadfast in our duty, knowing that we are the gatekeepers of our nation’s democracy,’ he said.

Amupitan thereafter formally declared the #OsunDecides2026 Situation Room closed, bringing to an end the Commission’s central monitoring and oversight operations for the Osun State Governorship Election.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has called on the federal government to honour the agreements reached in 2025 and release salaries withheld from its members.

ASUU emphasised that the implementation of outstanding aspects of the December 2025 FGN-ASUU Agreement would go a long way towards restoring industrial harmony and enabling university lecturers to focus on teaching, research and community service.

Christopher Piwuna, ASUU president, disclosed this on Friday while briefing journalists at the union’s secretariat of the University of Jos in Plateau State, as the union renewed its demand for the payment of withheld salaries and the resolution of other outstanding welfare issues affecting university lecturers.

Piwuna said the federal government must urgently address all outstanding issues of academic staff welfare and matters arising from the FG-ASUU Agreement of December 2025 to ensure stability in Nigeria’s public universities.

He noted that the resolution of the issues was critical to restoring confidence among university lecturers and creating the conditions necessary for effective teaching, research and learning in the nation’s public universities.

Besides, the ASUU president raised broader concerns about Nigeria’s socio-economic situation, and advocated for a fundamental shift in government policies ahead of the 2027 general elections.

‘Political parties and candidates must make the welfare of Nigerians, job creation, poverty reduction, education and economic development central to their programmes, rather than rely on policies that provide temporary relief without addressing the structural causes of hardship,’ he said.

Piwuna particularly criticised what he described as IMF and World Bank-dictated ‘poverty alleviation’ policies, saying such approaches should give way to more participatory and inclusive programmes designed around Nigeria’s peculiar realities.

‘Federal and sub-national governments must prioritise agricultural and industrial production, social protection and other productive sectors capable of creating jobs and reducing dependency.

‘The government should also suspend unnecessary borrowing and explore sustainable alternative sources of financing development projects that have direct relevance to the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians,’ he said.

Moreover, Piwuna called for stronger measures to tackle corruption and financial leakages, including the recovery of stolen public resources and improved accountability in the management of public funds.

Besides, he advocated a tax system that places a greater burden on the wealthy, arguing that the rich should contribute more towards financing development and improving the living conditions of poorer Nigerians.

‘As an underdeveloped country yearning for rapid development, it’s the rich that must be taxed to give the poor a life worth living,’ he said.

On education, the ASUU president called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s education system to make it responsive to the country’s socio-economic, cultural, technological and developmental realities.

‘Nigeria should move away from simply replicating educational models developed for other societies and instead develop a system that addresses its own peculiar challenges and development needs,’ he noted.

He emphasised the need for greater attention to research, technical education, agriculture, innovation and skills development, stressing that these were essential to producing the manpower required to drive Nigeria’s development.

He said properly funded research and technical education would also help reduce unemployment by equipping young Nigerians with relevant skills and creating pathways into productive sectors of the economy.

The union further urged the federal and state governments to address the infrastructure and funding challenges confronting public universities, saying sustainable investment was required to reverse the decline in the quality of higher education.

Piwuna stressed that the welfare of academic staff must remain central to any meaningful reform of the university system, noting that lecturers cannot effectively deliver on their responsibilities in an environment where agreed conditions of service remain unresolved.

He said the implementation of outstanding aspects of the December 2025 FGN-ASUU Agreement would go a long way towards restoring industrial harmony and enabling university lecturers to focus on teaching, research and community service.

The ASUU president maintained that the challenges confronting universities could not be separated from the wider economic difficulties facing the country.

Piwuna further called on governments both at the federal, state and local government levels to redirect their socio-economic policies and projects towards the people, whom they hold public resources in trust for.

‘With the 2027 elections approaching, Nigerians should critically assess the policies and programmes being offered by political parties and candidates, particularly their plans for education, employment, poverty reduction, production and social protection,’ he said.

He maintained that ASUU remained committed to engaging government and other stakeholders towards finding lasting solutions to the challenges confronting Nigeria’s university system and the wider society.

50 rural women from Zaria, Kaduna State, have been admitted into the Nestlé Nigeria ‘Empowering Rural Women’ initiative for building stronger and sustainable businesses at the grassroots.

The programme had supported 432 women entrepreneurs across several communities in Nigeria, while the addition of the 50 women from Zaria brings the total number reached to 482 in five years.

The intervention also marked the beginning of a three-month mentorship period designed to help the women apply their training, manage the additional stock effectively and build stronger, more sustainable businesses.

Launched in 2021, the Empowering Rural Women Initiative supports women retailers who have demonstrated the determination to grow their businesses but have limited access to training, mentorship and the resources required to expand.

‘Women account for approximately 60 percent of the retailers in Nestlé Nigeria’s retail network. Every day, they help us reach consumers, build trust within communities and keep our business moving,’ Boladale Odunlami, commercial manager, Nestlé Nigeria, stated, highlighting the scale of their contribution and the importance of enabling their continued growth.

He added that their contribution is significant, and that the initiative reflects Nestlé Nigeria’s belief that the women who contribute to the company’s growth should have the opportunity to grow with the brand. ‘By investing in their skills and strengthening their businesses, we are helping them increase their earning potential while building a stronger, more capable and more resilient retail network.’

According to him, the programme monitoring shows that more than 80 percent of participants from previous cohorts have sustained and grown their businesses beyond the initial stock boost provided through the programme.

He disclosed that many of the previous beneficiaries operate at a significantly higher level than when they joined, with larger inventories, higher turnover, more customers and stronger financial and business-management practices.

The training for the Zaria participants covered bookkeeping, merchandising, stock management, financial management and customer service. Over the next three months, mentors will provide practical guidance as the women manage their increased stock.

The participants were encouraged to apply their new knowledge and reinvest their profits to support continued growth, and to also learn from one another and build relationships that could provide support beyond the formal mentorship period.

‘The true measure of this initiative is not the support we provide on the day, but what the women go on to build with it. Five years on, we are seeing women sustain their growth, expand their businesses and create greater economic security for themselves and their families,’ Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability Lead, Nestlé Nigeria, stated.

According to her, the Zaria edition was delivered with the support of Nestlé Nigeria’s implementation partners and local distributors. During the mentorship period, their continued engagement will support the participants as they put their training into practice and work towards stronger, more profitable businesses.

‘As these women build stronger businesses and better livelihoods, they also strengthen the retail network that connects Nestlé to communities across Nigeria. It is a model in which progress for the women and progress for our business reinforce each other, turning an initial investment into lasting value.’

Eze Madumere, former deputy governor of Imo State and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), senatorial candidate for Imo East District, (Owerri zone), has urged Imo youths to embrace technology entrepreneurship, innovation in order to remain relevant in the macro-economic ecosystem.

Madumere, who made the urge during the 2026 International Youth Day celebration, described young people as the driving force behind every progressive society, saying that the development of Imo State cannot be complete without meaningful investment in the youthful population.

Madumere, an American-trained technocrat, called on the political leaders and other stakeholders to move beyond celebrating young people and begin to create real opportunities for youth participation, empowerment and leadership.

He stated that the International Youth Day provides an opportunity to celebrate the energy, creativity, resilience and ingenuity of young people, while also drawing attention to the responsibility of the government and society to create opportunities for them to thrive.

Madumere reaffirmed that his commitment to the youth is not a recent political strategy or a product of public office, but a conviction borne and carried for many years, aimed at repositioning the youths for greater productivity.

‘I have always been a youth person. My commitment to young people did not begin when I became Deputy Governor, nor is it tied to any political position. Today, long before I served the people of Imo State, I believed strongly in the capacity of young people to lead, create, innovate and transform society.

‘Public office only provided me with a broader platform to demonstrate a conviction I had always held that when young people are given opportunity, responsibility and the right environment, they can achieve extraordinary things,’ Madumere said.

According to him, the future of Imo State must be deliberately built around a generation of young people who are equipped, empowered and given the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to governance and economic development.

While celebrating the youth of Imo East, he assured his continued commitment to championing a society where young people are not treated merely as followers and electoral statistics, but as partners, stakeholders and leaders in the development of Imo State and the nation.

‘To every young person in Owerri Zone and across Imo State, I celebrate you today. Your dreams matter, your ideas matter. Your voice resonates loud and clear. Your future is assured. Never underestimate what you can become and keep hope alive.

‘On this International Youth Day, I salute your courage, celebrate your resilience and reaffirm my commitment to a generation of young Imolites who will not only inherit the future but will actively build it,’ he stated.