Category: Daily Trust

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has ruled out any form of negotiation or ransom payment to bandits, insisting that such actions would only embolden the criminals and worsen insecurity across the state.

Bago made the declaration during a condolence visit to Rijau and Magama local government areas, where several communities were recently attacked by armed bandits.

In a statement issued in Minna by his Special Adviser on Print Media, Aisha Wakaso, the governor said Niger State had reached a point where citizens must take responsibility for their safety and resist banditry collectively.

‘We will not negotiate with bandits. I will not pay ransom. The moment we start paying, they will open shop on our heads and keep kidnapping people,’ Bago said.

‘We are surrounded by enemies, but we will not give up. The constitution gives us the right to defend our lives and property, and we will do just that. There is no going back.’

Describing the spate of attacks as a ‘state of war,’ the governor said it was both a constitutional and moral obligation to protect lives and property, adding that he would go to any length necessary to safeguard the people.

Bago expressed dismay that some communities had been overrun by criminals, forcing residents to flee their homes and live as internally displaced persons.

To strengthen security, the governor announced plans to recruit and train 10,000 members into the state’s Joint Task Force (JTF), with recruitment expected to begin immediately.

He also declared a total ban on mining activities across Zone C of the state-which comprises Magama, Kontagora, Rijau, Wushishi, Mariga, Borgu, Mashegu, and Agwara local government areas-citing illegal mining as a major driver of insecurity.

‘It is suspicious that miners can enter the forests freely, yet the bandits don’t touch them,’ he said, directing the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to arrest anyone caught engaging in mining in the affected areas.

Bago further assured victims of the latest attacks of government support, promising compensation for families of those killed, medical care for the injured, and assistance for residents who lost their livelihoods.

The Department of State Services (DSS), in partnership with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), has begun production of high-tech security equipment.

Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, who disclosed this in Abuja, described the high-tech equipment production as a major feat towards technological self-reliance in Nigeria’s security sector.

According to him, the high-tech equipment which is jointly being produced with the DSS, with full support of Mr. President, will improve intelligence gathering and effective security coverage in the country.

‘A state-of-the-art manufacturing facility jointly constructed with the DSS in Abuja, is fully-equipped with the latest security systems and technology that will transform the conduct of security operations nationwide,’ he said.

He noted that Director-General of DSS, Oluwatosin Ajayi, had always emphasised President’s vision of promoting self-reliance by Security Agencies in Nigeria and reducing importation of security equipment.

This, NASENI boss explained why both agencies trained and developed technical expertise in manufacturing the security equipment; details of which cannot be disclosed now for obvious reasons.

‘This strategic partnership leverages on NASENI’s scientific and engineering expertise to enhance research and innovation tailored specifically to the needs of the security sector,’ Halilu said.

The success of this innovation, he stated, would soon position Nigeria as a leader in security technology manufacturing in the West African Sub-Region, with positive implications for regional stability and economic development.

‘The initiative reflects the President’s broader priorities to promote self-reliance and technological advancement in security systems, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s pursuit of sustainable and security solutions,’ the NASENI boss declared.

On his part, Ajayi said the President firmly believes that Nigeria has the capacity to manufacture its own security equipment and should minimize reliance on foreign imports.

The House of Representatives has resolved to launch an investigation into the alleged use of harmful and carcinogenic chemicals in the preservation of frozen foods sold in Nigerian markets.

The resolution followed a motion by Hon Chike Okafor during plenary on Tuesday, who expressed concern over reports that dangerous substances such as formalin, sodium hydroxide, sniper, kerosene, and carbide are being used to preserve frozen fish, prawns, shrimp, meat, and other perishable items.

Okafor warned that the continued use of such substances poses grave health risks to Nigerians, including cancer, organ damage, developmental disorders such as autism, and other life-threatening conditions, as documented by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).

Adopting the motion, the House mandated its Committees on Nutrition and Food Security, in conjunction with those on NAFDAC and Safety Standards, to conduct a comprehensive investigative hearing on the alleged use of toxic preservatives in frozen foods and the importation of carcinogen-preserved food products.

A pro-Tinubu political group within the All Progressives Congress (APC), Renewed Hope Advocates for Tinubu 2027, has cautioned the national chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, against moves allegedly aimed at frustrating efforts to woo Governor Caleb Mutfwang into the party.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the group’s National Coordinator, Comrade Zakari Mohammed, said such actions could undermine President Bola Tinubu’s reconciliatory drive and ongoing efforts to strengthen the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Plateau APC leadership, in a meeting presided over by Nentawe last week, passed a motion blocking the governor from joining the ruling party. While the governor has denied any plan to defect to the APC, the group said President Tinubu’s allies have been reaching out to credible opposition figures, including Mutfwang, in what it described as a ‘national unity project’ to expand the ruling party’s base.

‘It has come to our notice that certain individuals within the Plateau APC, led by Dr Nentawe Yilwatda, are doing everything possible to frustrate Governor Mutfwang’s possible entry into the party,’ the statement read.

‘This attitude contradicts President Tinubu’s inclusive leadership style and vision of a stronger, united APC that transcends old rivalries.’

The group urged the APC National Working Committee (NWC) to intervene before the emerging cracks within the Plateau chapter deepen.

However, Yilwatda’s media aide dismissed the allegations as ‘baseless and politically motivated,’ saying the chairman remained focused on rebuilding the party.

‘Dr Nentawe has no issue with Governor Mutfwang or anyone considering joining the APC. These stories are the handiwork of mischief-makers,’ he said.

The group reaffirmed its support for Tinubu’s nationwide reconciliation drive.

Fresh details have emerged on the nature of testimonies expected from prominent witnesses listed by the detained leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, as part of his defence in the terrorism charges filed against him.

The list of witnesses, filed on October 21, categorises them into two groups: Category A, made up of ‘ordinary but material defence witnesses (voluntary)’, and Category B, consisting of ‘vital and compellable witnesses’ to be summoned under Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011.

Kanu’s defence, which is expected to open today at the Federal High Court in Abuja, follows Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanu protest, which disrupted work and business activities in Abuja and other parts of the country.

In the document personally signed by Kanu, the Category B list includes former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami; former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai Abubakar; former Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS), Yusuf Bichi; former Minister of Defence, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd); and former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd).

Others on the list are Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma; former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike; and Minister of Works and former Ebonyi State Governor, Dave Umahi.

According to the court filings, Malami is expected to testify on directives and authorisations linked to ‘the defendant’s extraordinary rendition, operations, custody conditions, and compliance with legal procedures.’

Buratai, on his part, will testify on ‘the 2017 invasion of the defendant’s residence and the chain of command authorising the military operation.’

Similarly, Umahi is expected to speak on the proscription of IPOB ‘without a judicial order and its consequences,’ while Ikpeazu will testify about his knowledge and administrative role during the 2017 military invasion of Kanu’s house in Abia State.

The document further explains that Uzodinma will testify on the killing of former PDP chieftain, Ahmed Gulak, and the findings and public statement exonerating IPOB, while Wike will testify on the ‘Obigbo massacre’ that followed the EndSARS protests and the role of security forces under his authority.

Sanwo-Olu is expected to testify on the EndSARS judicial panel, particularly the Lekki Toll Gate incident, to establish what Kanu’s defence describes as ‘a pattern of repression.’

In addition, retired Gen. T.Y. Danjuma is to testify on his 2018 public warning urging Nigerians to defend themselves against ‘infiltrated armed forces,’ which the defence says helps contextualise Kanu’s advocacy for self-defence.

Other witnesses include two Americans – Bruce Fein and Barry Sutton – who are to testify on the illegality of extraordinary rendition and the alleged digital tampering of electronic evidence, respectively. A civil society director and an unnamed witness are also listed to testify on alleged extrajudicial killings of IPOB members.

The House of Representatives has opened investigations into alleged non-repatriation of Nigeria’s crude oil and non-oil export proceeds estimated at over $850 billion between 1996 and 2014.

Chairman of the House Ad-Hoc Committee on Pre-Shipment Inspection of Exports and Non-Repatriation of Crude Oil Proceeds, Hon. ‘Seyi Sowunmi, disclosed this on Wednesday during the Committee’s inaugural press briefing at the National Assembly, Abuja.

He said recent allegations suggest a significant breakdown in compliance with the Pre-shipment Inspection of Exports Act, with operators in the oil and gas sector reportedly failing to repatriate between 40 and 45 per cent of Nigeria’s crude oil and non oil export proceeds, contrary to the law which mandates full repatriation of export earnings within 90 days for oil exports and 180 days for non-oil exports.

Sowunmi also expressed concern over the ‘worrisome disparity’ in export-earnings data reported by government agencies such as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Department of Petroleum Resources (now NUPRC), Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), as well as inconsistencies between Nigerian data and that of international bodies like OPEC.

He added that non-oil exports, especially those involving solid minerals and other commodities, have also been marked by ‘high non-compliant export earnings reports.’

According to him, the Pre-shipment Inspection of Exports Act (CAP P26, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004) established the Nigerian Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) to prevent capital flight, ensure accurate export valuation, and safeguard Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings.

Before the Act was enacted in 1996, he said, the country suffered from ‘endemic leakages in the form of under-valuation, delayed invoicing, price manipulation, illegal swaps, and deliberate over-loading.’

The Committee, he explained, will probe the exact volume and value of unrepatriated export proceeds from oil, gas, and non-oil sectors since 1996; determine why government agencies produce conflicting export data, and engage experts for a forensic reconciliation of export-proceeds accounts.

It will also investigate the management and utilization of funds under the NESS.

‘This Committee will be guided strictly by evidence, not speculation. Our work will be document-based, data-driven, transparent, and verifiable,’ Sowunmi said.

‘Our aim is simple: Nigeria must receive, in full and promptly, every dollar legally due from its exports,’ he added.

He assured that the House of Representatives, under the leadership of Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, is fully committed to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by blocking revenue leakages and recovering lost funds for the Federation Account.

Sowunmi further announced that the Committee will actively utilise existing whistleblowing channels extracting credible information.

He called for the cooperation of all stakeholders including oil operators, regulators, financial institutions, and exporters, emphasising that the investigation is a ‘whole-of-system exercise.’

The police high command, on Thursday, offered explanations on why it arrested the convener of the #RevolutionNow# and former Presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore.

The force spokesman said the number of those arrested in connection with the recent #FreeNnamdiKanuNow# Protest held in Abuja, on Monday, was now 14.

Daily Trust reports that the Human rights activist, who was arrested at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday, led the #FreeNnamdiKanuProtest.

He had fled when the police arrested other protesters.

Fielding questions from journalist, the Force spokesman, Benjamin Hundeyin, a Chief Superintendent of Police, who confirmed his arrest, said he was nabbed for violating a court order barring the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest.

Hundeyin stated that those arrested earlier disclosed that it was the former presidential candidate that led them to the protest ground.

The force spokesman said Sowore would be arraigned in court immediately.

‘He was arrested in contravention of a court order. So, if we move from fair to charge some people to court, and leave the person that led them to commit that more like their leader, the elite protester who told them and took them into the restricted area.

‘And that’s why in the spirit of fair play and to ensure that justice is served, Omoyele Showere was arrested today. And like the others too, he wouldn’t spend time with us, he wouldn’t spend up to 24 hours with us.

‘Once, we wrap up the charges, he’s going to be prosecuted. In fact, if everything goes right, our plan is to ensure that he’s prosecuted today. He goes to court today. That would be the latest on the Nnamdi Kanu protest.’

Introduction – Why Prop Trading Matters Today

The trading landscape has changed dramatically in recent years. With the rise of proprietary trading firms (prop firms), individual traders now have access to capital, tools, and opportunities that were once reserved for large institutions. Instead of risking only their own money, traders can partner with a prop trading firm to access larger funding pools, advanced platforms, and structured risk management.

In 2025, the demand for instant funding prop firms has skyrocketed, especially among retail traders who want to scale their strategies without waiting months to build capital. This article explores how prop trading works, the benefits and risks, and how to choose the right firm for your trading journey.

What Is a Prop Trading Firm?

A proprietary trading firm (often called a prop firm) is a company that provides traders with access to its own capital. In return, traders share a percentage of their profits with the firm. Unlike traditional brokers, prop firms don’t earn from spreads or commissions alone – they profit when their traders succeed.

Key Features of Prop Firms:

Access to significant trading capital

Structured evaluation or challenge phases

Profit-sharing models (commonly 70-90% to the trader)

Risk management rules to protect both the trader and the firm

?? Learn more about proprietary trading on Wikipedia.

Why Traders Choose Prop Firms in 2025

The appeal of prop firms lies in their ability to accelerate a trader’s growth. Instead of saving for years to build a $50,000 account, a skilled trader can pass an evaluation and trade with that capital almost immediately.

Benefits include:

Leverage without personal risk: You trade with the firm’s money, not your life savings.

Instant funding options: Some firms, like HTrader’s instant funding program, allow traders to skip lengthy challenges and start trading funded accounts right away.

Professional environment: Access to advanced platforms, mentorship, and risk controls.

Scalability: Many firms increase their capital allocation as you prove consistent profitability.

How Instant Funding Prop Firms Work

Traditional prop firms often require traders to pass a multi-step evaluation before granting access to live capital. This can take weeks or months. In contrast, an instant funding prop firm allows traders to start with a funded account immediately after paying a one-time fee.

Example: With HTrader, traders can choose between evaluation-based funding or instant funding, depending on their confidence and strategy.

Who it suits: Experienced traders who already have a proven system and want to scale quickly.

Caution: Instant funding doesn’t mean unlimited freedom – strict risk management rules still apply.

Smart Strategies for Success with a Prop Firm

1. Master Risk Management

Risk management is the backbone of trading. Even with access to large capital, traders must follow strict rules:

Never risk more than 1-2% per trade.

Always use stop-loss orders.

Respect daily and overall drawdown limits set by the firm.

?? For a deeper dive, see Investopedia’s guide on risk management.

2. Build a Solid Trading Plan

A trading plan should outline:

Entry and exit strategies

Position sizing rules

Risk-to-reward ratios

Contingency plans for volatile markets

3. Use Both Technical and Fundamental Analysis

Technical analysis: Chart patterns, moving averages, RSI, MACD.

Fundamental analysis: Economic reports, interest rate decisions, and geopolitical events.

Combining both increases accuracy and reduces emotional trading.

4. Keep Emotions in Check

Trading psychology is often the difference between success and failure. Avoid revenge trading, stick to your plan, and maintain discipline.

Choosing the Right Prop Firm in 2025

Selecting the right prop trading firm in 2025 is more than just comparing profit splits – it’s about finding a partner that aligns with your trading style, risk tolerance, and long-term goals. With the rise of instant funding prop firms and flexible evaluation programs, traders now have more options than ever to access capital and scale their strategies. Key factors such as transparency, regulation, funding models, and community support should guide your decision. By choosing wisely, you can position yourself for consistent growth while avoiding the pitfalls of unreliable or restrictive firms.

Not all prop firms are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

Regulation and Transparency: Ensure the firm is reputable and compliant with financial standards. You can verify firms through regulators like the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

Funding Options: Does the firm offer both evaluation and instant funding?

Profit Split: Look for firms offering at least 70% to the trader.

Scaling Plans: Some firms double your capital allocation as you hit profit milestones.

Support and Community: Access to mentorship, webinars, and trading communities can be invaluable.

Real-World Example: Funding Traders with HTrader

One of the rising names in the industry is HTrader, a prop trading firm that offers both evaluation-based and instant funding programs. Traders can choose the model that best fits their experience level.

For beginners: Evaluation programs help build discipline.

For experienced traders: Instant funding allows immediate access to capital.

For professionals: Scaling programs reward consistent profitability with higher allocations.

This flexibility makes HTrader a strong option for funding traders in 2025.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Prop Trading

Overleveraging: Even with firm capital, reckless leverage can lead to quick losses.

Ignoring rules: Violating drawdown or risk rules can result in account termination.

Lack of preparation: Jumping into instant funding without a tested strategy is risky.

Chasing profits: Focus on consistency, not overnight success.

Future of Prop Trading – Trends to Watch

AI-powered trading tools: More firms are integrating AI for risk monitoring and trade analysis.

Crypto prop trading: Growing demand for funded accounts in crypto markets.

Global expansion: Prop firms are reaching traders in emerging markets, offering opportunities worldwide.

Regulatory oversight: Expect stricter rules as regulators like the FCA and CFTC monitor the industry more closely.

Conclusion – Should You Join a Prop Firm?

For traders in 2025, joining a prop trading firm can be a game-changer. Whether you prefer the structured evaluation route or the speed of an instant funding prop firm, the key is preparation, discipline, and risk management.

By choosing a reputable brand like HTrader, following a solid trading plan, and leveraging both technical and fundamental analysis, you can scale your trading career without risking your personal savings. Prop trading isn’t a shortcut to riches – but with the right mindset and strategy, it’s one of the smartest ways to grow as a trader in today’s fast-moving markets.

Chelsea have begun talks with Moises Caicedo over a new, more lucrative contract to ward off interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid.

The move comes as Caicedo, described as ‘world-class’ by head coach Enzo Maresca, has become a key figure since his £115 million ($154m) arrival from Brighton in 2023.

Caicedo’s current £150,000-per-week contract already runs until 2031, with an option for an additional year, but the Blues are eager to secure his future with improved terms through a higher salary or new bonus structure, rather than an extension to the duration, according to GiveMeSport.

The report also states that Caicedo is keen to remain at Stamford Bridge, despite reported interest from Real Madrid.

The Support Our Troops (SOT) Foundation at the weekend launched its year-long empowerment programme to improve the welfare and economic stability of military families across Nigeria.

The one-year initiative is targeted to support widows, orphans, wounded soldiers, and retired servicemen and women.

At the launch in Abuja, the foundation announced plans to empower at least 100 beneficiaries nationwide by October, 2026, with at least 70 per cent expected to achieve sustainable income within a year of training and mentorship.

The empowerment drive will focus on vocational and entrepreneurial skills, small business development and direct welfare support.

The coordinator of the SOT Foundation, Ojinika Mba-Kalu described the launch as a renewed call to collective responsibility and a show of gratitude to the armed forces.

She noted that the initiative was part of a campaign to address long-standing concerns about the living conditions of military families, particularly those of fallen heroes.

According to Mba-Kalu, the programme will unfold in phases, beginning with the selection of beneficiaries through a transparent partnership framework with key military associations.

The first training cohort, she added, is expected to begin early next year, covering both vocational instruction and business education.

A second cohort will follow by mid-2026, with the final round of financial grants and support disbursed by September.

In his Goodwill message, the Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, commended the promoters of the Support Our Troops initiative for their unwavering commitment to uplifting Nigeria’s military personnel and their families.

Speaking through his representative, Mr. Ebu Emmanuel, Mr. Rafsanjani praised the organizers for recognizing CISLAC’s role in promoting welfare and advocacy for national heroes.