Category: Nigerian Tribune

Experts, in a new study, reported that eating more fruit could help protect lungs from air pollution damage, particularly in women.

In the study, presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, they declared that fruit may act as a natural shield against air pollution’s harmful effects on the lungs.

The beneficial effects were most noticeable in women who ate four or more portions of fruit a day.

Air pollution from tiny particles in the air comes from car exhaust, factories, and other sources. It is linked to breathing problems, asthma, COPD, and even heart disease.

Over 90% of the global population is exposed to air pollution levels that exceed WHO guidelines, and ample research shows that exposure to higher air pollution levels is associated with reduced lung function.

Separately, a healthy diet – particularly one high in fruits and vegetables – has been linked to better lung function.

Using UK Biobank data from around 200,000 participants, Kaewsri compared people’s dietary patterns – including their fruit, vegetable and whole grain intake – with their lung function (FEV1 – the amount of air exhaled in one second) and their exposure to air pollution in the form of fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

PM2.5 concentration is the amount of very tiny particles, 2.5 micrometres or smaller, released into the air, for example, by vehicle exhaust and industrial processes.

Additionally, exposure to fine particulate matter from sources such as industrial processes and vehicle exhaust was taken into account by the researchers. Socioeconomic position, age, and height were also taken into account.

The researchers found that women in the low fruit consumption group inhaled 78.1 ml less air per second for every five microgrammes of PM2.5 exposure, while women in the high fruit intake group only saw a 57.5 ml decrease.

Pimpika Kaewsri, a PhD student from the Centre for Environmental Health and Sustainability at the University of Leicester, UK, who presented the report of the study, said that a healthy diet is linked to better lung function in both men and women, regardless of air pollution exposure.

According to Kaewsri, ‘And those women who consumed four portions of fruit per day or more appeared to have smaller reductions in lung function associated with air pollution, compared to those who consumed less fruit.’

‘This may be partly explained by the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds naturally present in fruit. These compounds could help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation caused by fine particles, potentially offsetting some of the harmful effects of air pollution on lung function.’

Kaewsri also noted that, in the study population, men generally reported lower fruit intake than women. ‘This difference in dietary patterns may help explain why the potential protective effect of fruit against air pollution was only observed in women,’ she added.

As Nigeria marked its 65th Independence Anniversary, the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as courageous efforts to reposition the country despite longstanding social and economic challenges.

In a statement signed by its North Central Coordinator, Dr. Sani Ahmad, the group acknowledged that Nigeria has continued to grapple with insecurity, inflation, unemployment, corruption, poor infrastructure, and erratic power supply.

However, it noted that the Tinubu administration has taken bold steps to confront these obstacles.

‘Under your leadership, we have seen courageous steps to confront these challenges and chart a new course for development. ‘Your commitment to improving security across our regions, tackling inflation, supporting agriculture and industry, as well as expanding opportunities for the youth, are commendable’ Ahmad said.

While celebrating the nation’s independence, Ahmad stressed the importance of consolidating gains in security, particularly in the northern region, urging the President not to relent despite criticisms.

‘I still plead with my two knees down to continue without minding those that never understand the burden of leadership among us and make sure that we are all safe not only in the northern region, but all parts of the country,’ he said.

He prayed for God’s wisdom, strength, and good health for President Tinubu to continue steering the nation towards peace, prosperity, and improved well-being for all citizens.

Four housemates recently evicted from the Big Brother Naija house, Thelma, Kuture, Joanna, and Bright Morgan, have shared thoughts about the connections and relationships they built inside the house.

Bright Morgan, while speaking alongside others in an interview with Tribune Online, clarified his stance with fellow housemate Dede. According to him, his actions were about setting boundaries rather than hatred.

‘Mide and Dede are close, so I just wanted to set boundaries. I don’t dislike her, but we had an issue the other day. Moving forward, I know I don’t have to be friends with everyone. I’m intentional about my relationships. When I have eyes on someone, I just focus on them,’ he explained.

Responding to questions on whether there was more to their connection with KayBobo, especially after a ‘kissing spree’ during her time in the BBNaija House, which apparently shocked other evicted housemates, Thelma revealed she values trust above all else.

She recalled feeling uncomfortable when she learned Isabella had shared KayBobo’s bed before he moved to hers, which created a wrong impression.

She said, ‘I didn’t see the need to explain to anyone, but I wasn’t cool with how things looked. I’d rather KayBobo come outside the house and explain the context, especially after he told housemates when asked about him and Thelma that the house is a social experiment. I don’t owe them an explanation. I just want clarity.’

On her part, Joanna addressed her relationship with Faith, explaining that what viewers saw on the reality show was not a serious relationship but just a friendship.

‘Faith isn’t a relationship person, and we decided to remain true friends. For me, mental connection comes first before anything else,’ she said.

On another relationship drama, Kuture recalled an outburst involving Isabella and Imisi, where things got heated to the point that Isabella poured pepper on Sultana before it was later resolved in a surprising way.

‘They called me to be a witness when they decided to settle their fight with a kiss,’ Kuture added.

The Edo State Police Command, on Wednesday said its operatives neutralised two suspected kidnappers in a gun duel in Ubiaja, Esan South East Local Government Area on September 30.

Spokesperson of the Command, Moses Yamu who stated this in a statement, noted that other suspects escaped with varying degrees of injury, while guns and mobile phones were recovered from the scene.

He said, ‘On 30th September, 2025 at about 09:50hrs, acting on credible intelligence, operatives of the Amedokhian Tactical Division,

‘In synergy with local Hunters and the Vigilante group, led by SP Peter Ogah, embarked on a bush combing operation along the railway track leading to Ubiaja in Esan South East Local Government Area.

‘During the operation, the team encountered a gang of suspected kidnappers who opened fire on the operatives.

‘In the ensuing gun duel, two of the suspects were neutralised, while others escaped with varying degrees of injuries.

‘One AK-47 rifle with breech number 4148, 33 rounds of live ammunition, and two mobile phones were recovered at the scene.

‘The neutralised suspects were immediately taken to the hospital where they were confirmed dead.’

Yamu also said that on the same date, operatives of the same Tactical Division recovered an English-made double-barreled shotgun with breech number 03273286 and two live cartridges in the forest around Idumogun Community in Ukoni area of Esan South East LGA during a bush combing operation.

He said the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, commended the gallantry of the operatives, hunters, and vigilante groups for their swift response and synergy in combating crime.

Agbonika assured members of the public that the Command remains resolute in its commitment to rid the State of criminal elements.

He urged members of the public to support the command’s Community Safety Partnership initiative and informal policing efforts in ensuring a safer Edo State.

He added, ‘For emergencies, the public can contact the Command through the following lines: 08037646272/08077773721.’

The Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the Executive Arm of Government to take deliberate and urgent steps to expand computer knowledge among students in public schools across the state.

This followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by the Minority Leader, Hon. W.A. Salami, during plenary.

The motion noted that computer literacy has become a fundamental requirement in modern education, enhancing interactive learning and better academic outcomes.

However, many public school students, especially in underserved areas like Oke-Ogun, Ibarapa, and parts of Oyo still lack access to digital education, putting them at a disadvantage in computer-based tests (CBT) such as the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by JAMB.

Despite being academically sound, a significant number of students have failed to secure university admission due to poor CBT performance, often caused by unfamiliarity with basic computer operations.

In response, the House urged the government to intensify efforts to improve digital education in public schools, including establishing computer rooms, equipping them with necessary accessories, and integrating computer training from the primary school level.

It also called for collaboration with JAMB to set up CBT centres in all 14 federal constituencies of the state and encouraged partnerships with education-focused philanthropists, NGOs, and foreign donors.

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin stressed the urgency of bridging the digital divide, noting that in today’s world, digital literacy is no longer optional.

He emphasized that students must be equipped with the skills required to compete and succeed in a technology-driven society.

The Speaker added that it was inclusive for the State Government to prioritise inclusive computer education as a tool for academic success and long-term development.

The Lawmaker representing the Akinyele/Lagelu federal constituency, Hon. Akinmoyede Olafisoye Wasiu, on Tuesday, 30th September 2025, facilitated a 150-million-naira training/empowerment programme on fish farming for no fewer than 600 fish farmers in his constituency.

The lawmaker facilitated the empowerment programme through the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in conjunction with Holatekun International Services Limited for selected youths and women who specialized in fish farming in Akinyele/Lagelu federal constituency.

At the end of the one-day training held at the Faith Joe Event Centre, Alegongo, Ibadan, each of the beneficiaries was given artificial fish ponds, fingerlings, fish feeds, and N200,000 each as start-up capital.

Similarly, the lawmaker also facilitated another 3-day training on entrepreneurship basics and empowerment skills under the 2025 capital project support for vulnerable persons in Akinyele/Lagelu federal constituency.

At the end of the training attended by 100 youths within the Akinyele/Lagelu federal constituency, each participant also received #200,000 financial support for their businesses and certificates of participation.

Speaking on the two programmes, Hon. Akinmoyede Wasiu stressed that the motive behind the gesture was to teach the beneficiaries drawn from 26 wards in the Akinyele/Lagelu constituency to acquire necessary skills to be self-reliant and further reduce the level of poverty among the people in his constituency.

Hon. Lafi, who enjoined the beneficiaries to utilize the knowledge they acquired at the training and the money judiciously, disclosed that more empowerment programmes are underway for those who did not benefit from this one before the end of the last quarter of the year 2025.

The Oyo Central senatorial Chairman of the APC, Hon. Joshua Oyebamiji, who spoke on behalf of the party, stated that from what happened at the programme, coupled with Hon. Lafi’s impressive performance, who has been serving his constituents conscientiously, the party may have no choice than to stand by him for re-election because the APC today stands on justice and fair play.

Also speaking, a former Vice-chairman of APC in Oyo State, Alhaji Isiaka Alimi, also attested to Hon. Lafi’s outstanding performance, which, according to him, is quite different from his predecessors in the said federal constituency.

The coordinators of one of the training sessions, Mr Okunubi Goriola and some of the beneficiaries, Jimoh Ridwan Oladayo, Dr. Akintunde Isiaka, youth leader of Lagelu local government; Hon. Teslim Olomopupo, youth leader of Akinyele local government; Mrs Abosede Abodunrin, Women Leader of Lagelu local government; and Mrs Felicia Osunbunmi, Women Leader of Akinyele local government, appreciated Hon. Lafi for always accommodating the youth and women whenever he organises empowerment programmes for his constituents.

Some of the APC leaders who attended the programme include Alhaji Fatai Awoyoola, Engr. Akinniyi Emmanuel Akinbode, Arch. Hassan Giwa, Hon. Biodun Oladeji, Hon. D.A. Lawal, Hon. Mukaila Ambali, Hon. M.L. Lawal, Hon. Debo Arowomole, among others.

A lot has changed since our 64th Independence Day anniversary, a year ago-and positively so. Nigeria today is better positioned for enduring economic growth and prosperity than it has been in a long time.

In this piece, I would like to highlight the progress we have made as a nation over the past year.

External reserves have grown from $37 billion to $42 billion. The Naira has gained about 6 percent against the US dollar since a year ago. Headline inflation, which stood at 32.7 percent a year ago, has fallen to 20 percent and is still declining. The Central Bank has just cut interest rates for the first time in five years, reflecting rising confidence in macroeconomic stability. In June 2025, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) affirmed that ‘Nigeria [is] no longer on the list’ of countries where airline funds are blocked from repatriation.

Four landmark tax bills have been passed-the single largest fiscal reform in our recent history. On the strength of reforms that have grown revenues and blocked leakages, we have achieved the unprecedented feat of hitting the federal revenue target for the 12 months of 2025 in August-five months ahead of schedule.

In infrastructure, the presidential legacy projects have moved from fledgling ideas to visible, tangible wonders-mile after mile of imposing concrete roads stretching through communities from Lekki to Calabar to Enugu to Akwanga to Sokoto, and more. Across the country, state-of-the-art cancer centers, electricity substations, MSME hubs, student loans, cash transfers, and new Regional Development Commissions are impacting the lives of the Nigerian people.

In oil and gas, we have seen the conclusion of the historic IOC divestments, ushering in a new chapter of indigenous strength and capacity in our energy industry. We have also welcomed a $5 billion FID from Shell-in the Bonga North deepwater project-alongside several new gas supply agreements that will transform the LNG market both domestically and for export.

Many notorious terrorist and bandit leaders who were actively unleashing violence a year ago have been neutralised or are now in captivity, while our security agencies continue to score improvements in both capacity and synergy.

In sports, our women’s national teams made history: the Super Falcons with their Mission X triumph, and the D’Tigress with their Mission V success-five consecutive AfroBasket titles.

The past year has also brought Grammys, Guinness World Records, and our first official selection ever for the Cannes Film Festival-a testament to Nigerian grit and cultural genius.

The period has also seen several Nigerians elected or appointed into key international organisations, including the Vice Presidency of the International Association for Ports and Harbours; Vice Chairmanship of the International Telecommunication Union Council; Chairmanship of the World Customs Organisation Council; and the Executive Directorship of the WHO’s Health Emergencies Programme, among others.

Nigeria is now the AU’s Digital Trade Champion, and the designated provider of strategic sea support services to the Union, through the Nigerian Navy. And in January 2025, we attained the status of a BRICS partner country.

In the first half of 2025, Nigeria-China trade surged to $15.48 billion, a 34.7 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. This comes almost exactly a year after our bilateral relations with China were upgraded to a comprehensive strategic partnership at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

There is indeed much to celebrate, affirming President Tinubu’s uplifting charge to the nation on October 1, 2024: ‘While it is tempting to focus on what has been left undone and where we have stumbled as a nation, we must never lose sight of how far we have come in forging and holding our country together.’

Today, as we turn 65 and begin our 66th year as an independent nation, every word of that charge rings true. The road has been challenging, but the rewards have been real, and we have forged a bold path toward the light, just as the President promised.

At 65, a person is considered a senior citizen-typically retired from active service. But for a nation, 65 years of independence is not a long time; it is correct to say this is’morning yet on creation day’ for us. That said, we are no longer the traumatised 39-year-old that took tentative steps into democracy in 1999.

We have grown wiser, made mistakes, and learned from many of them. We have come to understand, by experience, what Winston Churchill meant when he said that ‘democracy is the worst form of government except for all those other forms that have been tried.’ We will never allow this democratic journey to be undermined.

Twenty-five years into this historic Fourth Republic, Nigeria has at its helm a bold and experienced reformer-one unafraid to take hard but necessary decisions for the country’s future; and with a vision to deliver a trillion dollar economy by 2030.

We are able to look ahead to the coming year with great hope and confidence that we are on the right path, moving in the right direction. In the next few weeks, preparations for the 2026 budget will gain momentum, with all hands on deck to deliver a budget that truly works for the people. And in January, the new tax laws will take effect, opening a new chapter of economic dynamism.

In his 2024 Independence Day address, President Tinubu urged: ‘I urge you to believe in our nation’s promise. The road ahead may be challenging, but we will forge a path toward a brighter future with your support.’

Looking at how the past 12 months have validated these powerful words-a challenging road that nonetheless opens up endless possibilities for growth, prosperity, and progress-I have no doubt whatsoever about the greatness that lies ahead as we begin the count down to our 66th Independence anniversary.

HOW will a transformed Africa look? I often find myself pondering the potential of this great continent-envisioning a redefined narrative, shifting from underdevelopment and dependency to one of innovation, integration, and global influence. Perhaps it will be economically integrated and self-reliant, trading more with itself and then the outside world. An energy powerhouse, with Pan-African renewable energy corridors powering industries, hospitals, homes, and schools. A fully digital Africa, with youth-driven innovation hubs rivaling Silicon Valley, solving African problems with African solutions. In this Africa, poverty will have drastically declined and inequality narrowed. Women and youth (who form the backbone of Africa’s labour force) will be central to economic growth. Our SMEs, which account for more than 80% of employment, will thrive alongside multinational corporations. Education systems will produce not just job-seekers but innovators, creators, and global leaders.

I am convinced that central to Africa’s transformation is unlocking cross-continental opportunities beyond trade alone. A key tool in realising this ambition is the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)-a platform to reimagine Africa’s place in global markets. By number of participating countries, AfCFTA is the largest free trade area in the world, bringing together 54 of the 55 African Union (AU) member states. By landmass and participation, no other agreement is as extensive. Collectively, AfCFTA covers a market of about 1.4 billion people with a combined GDP of over $3.4 trillion. Its ambition is to eliminate tariffs on up to 90% of goods, reduce trade barriers, and open a truly continental market. The question is: how do we unlock this potential? Beyond trading goods, unlocking cross-continental business opportunities requires more than treaties and ambition. African governments must harmonise regulations, improve infrastructure, support the building of skills and create enabling environments for businesses to thrive. Currently, operating across Africa means navigating a patchwork of regulatory regimes, tax systems, and compliance requirements. Building resilient governance frameworks, standardising internal controls, and ensuring compliance with IFRS and country-specific tax codes are essential to avoid penalties, reputational risks, and operational disruptions.

Yet harmonisation under AfCFTA will not eliminate complexity overnight. Finance leaders must anticipate regulatory lag and proactively engage with policymakers to shape investor-friendly environments. Ensuring governance and regulatory certainty is therefore critical. Implementing predictable, transparent rules that reduce entry and operating costs, adopting rules of origin, mutual recognition of standards, and digital customs (such as e-certificates and risk-based inspections) are urgent, practical actions that we can apply to reimagine Africa’s global trade position. Africa’s digital economy, projected to reach $712 billion by 2050, is also reshaping how people connect, work, and do business. Pan-African fintechs, e-commerce platforms, and digital service providers already demonstrate how cross-border collaboration can leapfrog traditional development hurdles. The rise of digital payments, fintech platforms, and blockchain-enabled trade creates enormous opportunity-but only if backed by robust governance, sound risk management, strong cybersecurity, and ethical standards. This ensures businesses can scale with integrity.

At the heart of this transformation are accountants and finance leaders. Their roles extend far beyond number-crunching: they are the architects of trust, the stewards of capital, and the strategic partners who can unlock the opportunities of cross-continental business integration. By mobilising capital, strengthening financial reporting, improving transparency, and aligning business strategies with international standards such as ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks, finance professionals foster investor trust and make Africa an attractive destination for global capital.

With AfCFTA opening access to a $3.4 trillion market, accountants and CFOs are uniquely positioned to translate opportunity into tangible growth. By ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, navigating complex tax regimes, and designing financial systems that support cross-border transactions, they reduce risks of expansion and give businesses the confidence to operate seamlessly across Africa. For decades, Africa’s transformation has relied heavily on bold visions and political will. Now is the time to translate these ambitions into sustainable financial outcomes-shifting from fragmented markets to an integrated economic powerhouse that competes globally and delivers shared prosperity. In one of our reports – Journey to AU2063 : professional accountants empowering the AfCFTA agreement, we analyse the critical role of professional accountants in the operationalisation of the AfCFTA agreement. A deep dive into the current state of trade in Africa highlights the critical barriers to intra-continental trade and realising the objectives of the AfCFTA. The findings in this report cut across financial and non-financial barriers and the critical steps and competencies that finance professionals need to overcome them.

The accountancy and finance profession, acting as a super-connector is poised to play a critical role in building resilient and sustainable businesses and economies, developing future talent, advancing standards and regulations, transforming the public sector and supporting entrepreneurial growth while strengthening ethical rules. As we gear up for the Africa ACCA Members Convention in December 2025, to be held in Kenya, one of the key agendas is to lead conversations that define and demonstrate the key role of the profession in bringing the aspirations of AU2063 to life. We will explore and evaluate the challenges and impact of operationalising the AfCFTA, in view of the critical role accounting and finance professionals play in enabling its full implementation. Under AfCFTA, Africa’s economic integration represents both an immense opportunity and a formidable challenge. For CFOs and finance professionals, the task ahead is clear: design and execute financial strategies that enable scale across borders, de-risk investments, enhance transparency, and attract capital at the level Africa’s ambitions demand.

The Labour Party (LP) has extended warm congratulations to Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s 65th Independence anniversary, describing it as a moment for reflection, recommitment, and collective resolve.

In a statement released from the Labour Party Secretariat in Abuja and signed by its national secretary, Hon. Umar Farouk Ibrahim Mairakumi, hailed the resilience of the Nigerian people and emphasised the urgent need to deepen democratic values, promote social justice, and build a nation that works for all.

‘October 1st is not just a date-it is a symbol of our shared struggle, our triumph over colonialism, and our enduring hope for a better Nigeria. At 65, we must ask ourselves: are we living up to the promise of independence?’ he said.

The statement reiterated the Labour Party’s commitment to the principles of equity, transparency, and people-centred governance. He called on leaders across political divides to prioritize the welfare of citizens and uphold the dignity of every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or social status.

‘True independence is not merely political-it is economic, social, and moral. It means ensuring that every Nigerian has access to quality education, healthcare, security, and opportunity. It means lifting millions out of poverty and restoring faith in our institutions,’ he added.

He also praised the growing political consciousness among Nigerian youth and urged them to remain engaged in shaping the future of the country through active participation and civic responsibility.

‘The youth are not just the future-they are the present. Their voices, their energy, and their vision are essential to building the Nigeria we all dream of.’

As Nigeria marks this milestone, Hon. Farouk called for unity and peaceful coexistence, stressing that the country’s diversity should be a source of strength, not division.

‘Let us rise above the politics of hate and embrace the politics of progress. Let us build bridges, not walls. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and together, we can make it thrive.’

He concluded by wishing all Nigerians a joyful Independence Day celebration and reaffirmed the Labour Party’s unwavering dedication to the ideals of social democracy and national renewal.

Adamawa State governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has inaugurated a new Pension Committee tasked with ensuring fairness, transparency, and timely settlement of arrears owed to retired civil servants in the state.

The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Auwal Tukur, performed the inauguration on Monday at the State Secretariat Complex in Yola on behalf of the governor.

Tukur said the administration remains committed to easing the financial burden of retirees who have faced delays in receiving their entitlements.

As part of the renewed effort, Fintiri approved ?8 billion for the payment of pension liabilities. Of this, ?5 billion is allocated to state pensioners and ?3 billion to local government retirees across the 21 LGAs. He noted that payments would follow a ‘first retired, first served’ system to prevent favoritism.

The SSG commended the work of the previous committee and expressed confidence in the new team chaired by Engineer Benson Jelani.

‘The selection of the committee members was based on their competence and proven track records,’ Tukur said. ‘We trust that under Engr. Jelani’s leadership, this committee will perform with diligence and integrity.’

In his remarks, Jelani thanked the governor for the trust placed in the committee and pledged to carry out its duties with fairness and accountability.

‘We assure His Excellency and the good people of Adamawa that we will execute our duties without fear or favour,’ he said.

The committee’s reconstitution comes as calls for pension reform grow nationwide, with many states still burdened by large outstanding pension liabilities.