Category: Nigerian Tribune

Dementia is a condition that affects memory, thinking, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday activities. Although aging remains one of the biggest risk factors, lifestyle habits, including diet, may influence long-term brain health.

While no single food can completely prevent dementia, regularly eating certain nutrient-rich foods may help to support brain function and reduce factors associated with cognitive decline.

In this article, Tribune Online highlights five foods that may help support brain health and lower the risk of dementia.

Fatty fish

Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel and tuna are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, which is an important component of brain cells.

Omega-3s are associated with improved brain function and may reduce inflammation linked to cognitive decline. Eating fish regularly is often included in dietary patterns associated with better brain health.

Leafy green vegetables

Vegetables such as spinach, ugu, lettuce and cabbage contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support brain health.

They are rich in nutrients such as vitamin K, folate and beta-carotene, which have been linked to slower cognitive decline.

Berries

Berries such as blueberries, strawberries and blackberries contain antioxidants known as flavonoids. These compounds h protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and support memory and learning functions. Regular consumption of berries has been associated with better cognitive performance.

Nuts

Nuts such as walnuts, almonds and peanuts provide healthy fats, vitamin E and antioxidants. Vitamin E protects brain cells from damage, while healthy fats support overall brain function. Walnuts, in particular, are often highlighted for their omega-3 content.

Whole grains

Whole grains such as oats, brown rice, millet, sorghum and whole wheat provide a steady supply of energy to the brain.

They contain fibre and nutrients that support healthy blood circulation, including blood flow to the brain. Maintaining good cardiovascular health is considered important for reducing dementia risk.

Israel has unveiled fresh initiatives to support Nigerian entrepreneurs, farmers and healthcare services as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between both countries.

The Ambassador of Israel to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, announced the initiatives in Abuja during the celebration of Israel’s 78th Independence Anniversary, saying the partnership between Nigeria and Israel would be driven by practical investments capable of improving lives and creating economic opportunities.

Freeman disclosed that Israel would sponsor a fifth cohort of an entrepreneurship programme in 2027, providing young Nigerian entrepreneurs with mentorship and opportunities to scale their businesses.

He said cooperation between the two countries was already yielding results in entrepreneurship, agriculture, healthcare, education and innovation.

‘We are expanding cooperation in innovation, agriculture, healthcare, security, education and skills development, not because these are acts of charity. They are investments in a shared future,’ he said.

Highlighting ongoing agricultural collaboration, the envoy described the sector as one of the strongest pillars of Nigeria-Israel relations, noting that vegetables distributed to guests at the event were grown by Nigerian farmers using Israeli seedlings and technology.

According to him, the initiative demonstrates how technology transfer can boost productivity, strengthen rural communities and improve food security across Nigeria.

‘As you leave this evening, you will receive a box of vegetables. These vegetables were grown from Israeli seedlings using Israeli technology, but grown by Nigerian farmers on Nigerian soil,’ Freeman said.

‘Hold that box for a moment and think about what it represents. Not vegetables, possibility. Imagine that success multiplied across Nigeria. Higher yields, stronger rural communities, greater food security, and millions upon millions of lives improved.’

In the healthcare sector, Freeman announced that Israel had donated three fully equipped ambulances to Nigeria, describing the gesture as a symbol of cooperation and a commitment to saving lives.

‘Today, I am also pleased to announce that the first three fully equipped ambulances donated by Israel are on their way to Nigeria,’ he said.

‘These ambulances will help save lives. But they are more than vehicles, they are a symbol of partnership. They are a symbol of what can happen when countries choose cooperation over division and solutions over slogans.’

The ambassador also reiterated Israel’s commitment to peace in the Middle East, recalling the vision of Israel’s founding leaders and urging greater regional cooperation.

He said agreements such as the Abraham Accords had demonstrated the benefits of peaceful engagement, while expressing concern over continued instability in the region.

‘The people of Israel deserve peace. The people of Lebanon deserve peace. The people of the entire Middle East deserve peace,’ Freeman said.

‘It is time to stop allowing Iran and other extremists and outside actors to hold the future of our region hostage. Let the people of the Middle East choose cooperation over conflict, prosperity over violence, hope over hatred.’

Also speaking, Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, congratulated Israel on its 78th Independence Anniversary and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to stronger bilateral ties.

Musawa said both countries share common values centred on innovation, creativity and development, adding that Nigeria’s growing creative economy offers significant opportunities for collaboration with Israel in technology, culture and innovation.

She noted that cultural exchange remains a powerful instrument for strengthening international relations and creating economic opportunities for citizens of both countries.

The minister expressed confidence that relations between Nigeria and Israel would continue to grow through increased cooperation, innovation and people-to-people engagement.

THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has explained that political parties are yet to upload the particulars of their candidates on the Commission’s authorised portal because none of them has received the needed codes to do so.

Speaking with Nigerian Tribune on Monday, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, said the political parties still have time to do it before the deadline set by the commission.

Because of this, he said no political party has submitted the names of their candidates.

In its revised timetable, the INEC had said political parties must submit candidate nominations from June 27 to July 11, 2026.

When asked on phone if the parties had submitted the names of their candidates, the national commissioner said, ‘None. We haven’t even given them codes. They are to upload the particulars of their candidates. We give them codes. We haven’t issued them the codes yet. The deadline for them to actually begin to submit the names of their candidates for Presidential, Senate, and House of Representatives is this month June and deadline is July 11.

That is, by July 11, they must upload the particulars. For State assemblies, I think it’s July to August. So, we have not even reached the date yet. So, nobody has uploaded anything yet.’

In an interview with Nigerian Tribune at the weekend, the ADC National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, said the party would publish the list of successful candidates from its primaries ‘when fully ready’ to do so.

Responding to accusations that ADC and other parties including All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were withholding candidates lists, Abdullahi said: ‘Are parties required to release it publicly or to submit it to INEC? The party will release it. The important thing is: have we submitted it to INEC? Have we met all requirements? That is what matters now. Whether we make it public or not is a different thing. We will make it available when we are ready.’

Former General Manager, Legal Services of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Innocent Eremionkhale, has dismissed reports suggesting that his departure from the Fund is because of an alleged crisis between staff and management.

Eremionkhale, a legal practitioner, issued a formal disclaimer in response to a report which linked his exit and those of other staff members to disagreements with the management of the Fund.

The former NSITF legal chief insisted that his resignation is entirely voluntary and driven by personal career considerations rather than any conflict with the leadership of the organisation.

He said; ‘I wish to respectfully clarify that I was not among any staff members who resigned from the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) as a result of any disagreement, dispute, conflict, or misunderstanding with the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer or the Management of the Fund.’

Eremionkhale stressed that throughout his service as General Manager, Legal Services, he maintained a cordial and professional relationship with the managing director, and other members of the management team.

‘For the avoidance of doubt, throughout my tenure as General Manager, Legal Services, I maintained a cordial and professional working relationship with the managing director and Management.

‘At no time did I have any disagreement or dispute with the Managing Director that could have influenced my decision to leave the service of the Fund,’ he said.

The former legal chief explained that his decision to leave the NSITF was informed by a desire to pursue fresh professional opportunities and return to private legal practice after years in public service.

‘My exit from the NSITF was entirely voluntary and was motivated by my personal career aspirations and desire to return to private legal practice after years of public service.

‘My decision was taken independently and should not be associated with any allegation of managerial crisis, workplace dispute, or dissatisfaction with the leadership of the Fund,’ he added.

‘Accordingly, any report, publication, or insinuation suggesting that my voluntary exit was connected with disputes, disagreements, or management-related issues is inaccurate and does not reflect the true circumstances surrounding my departure from the NSITF.’

He noted that the clarification became necessary to prevent misinformation and ensure that the facts surrounding his departure were properly documented.

‘I consider it necessary to place this clarification on record in order to prevent any misunderstanding or misrepresentation of the facts,’ he added.

FARMERS in Ekiti State, under the aegis of All Farmers’ Association of Nigeria (AFAN) have donated a sum of five million naira to the re-election campaign of the state Governor, Biodun Oyebanji.

They argued the need for continuity of his positive disposition to agriculture development as well as developments in other critical sectors of the economy for their decision.

The farmers made the donation during an engagement with the governor in Ado-Ekiti on Monday also assured the Governor that no fewer than fifty thousand farmers will vote to re-elect him in the June 20 election as a way of demonstrating their appreciation and backing for his administration.

Speaking on behalf of the farmers, the National Vice President (Youth) and the State Chairman of AFAN, Chief Tunde Adeyemi and Mr Sunday Adekogbon respectively, cited the Governor Oyebanji’s tractorization programme, subsidized farm inputs, rural roads rehabilitation and construction as well as empowerment programme as some of the reasons for supporting his re-election.

The farmers said the Oyebanji administration from inception has been treating farmers like kings, having prioritized agribusiness development which has repositioned agriculture from subsistence level to an investment-driven venture.

‘As stakeholders in the agricultural sector, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting your administration’s vision. Together, we can strengthen food security, empower young people through agriculture, create employment opportunities, attract investment, and position Ekiti State as one of Nigeria’s leading agricultural states,’ they said.

While describing the governor as one of the most progressive subnational agricultural models in Nigeria through his deliberate policies, strategic investments, and consistent engagement with farmers, the farmers said Oyebanji has been able to turn the state into a reference point for agricultural development, food security advancement, and rural transformation.

The farmers also expressed their appreciation for Governor Oyebanji’s aggressive rural road infrastructure with particular emphasis to the construction and rehabilitation of the Aba-Ibadan-Igbara-Odo Road and the Agamo-Ipere-Iludun Road which have provided direct access to farms and significantly eased movement of farm inputs, equipment, and harvested produce to and from the farms.

Responding, governor Oyebanji expressed deep appreciation for the farmers’ financial support for his re-election bid and assured them that his administration will not relent in its efforts to reposition the sector as a pathway to job and wealth creation.

According to him, ‘What is happening today is a bit shocking to me and I get emotional when things like this happen because ideally, it should be people like us that should be supporting you, but when farmers congregate together and donate money to a cause, it speaks volume and I really want to thanks and say God bless you.

‘Things like this impose a lot of responsibility on me to ensure that I continue to do those things that are pleasing to God and to you.’

However, Muslim leaders across the 16 local government areas of the Ekiti State have pledged to mobilise and deliver no fewer than 150,000 votes for the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term.

They cited his inclusive style of governance, commitment to the welfare of citizens and for championing religious harmony in the state for their decision.

The Muslim leaders disclosed this during an engagement with the governor at the residence of the Chief Imam and President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas in South West, Edo and Delta States, Sheik Jamiu Kewulere Bello.

The meeting was attended by Sheikh Bello, President Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Ahmed Bakare; members of the Supreme Council, Chief Imams from the 16 LGAs of the state, as well as representatives of the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisation (NACOMYO).

Speaking on behalf of the Muslim community, Sheik Bello commended governor Oyebanji for carrying all segments of the state along in governance, describing him as a leader who has demonstrated fairness, humility and a genuine commitment to the development of Ekiti State without discrimination on religion or political affiliation.

The President-General noted that Oyebanji’s outstanding performance in office is a reflection of his sound upbringing, vast experience and proper political tutelage.

He described him as a well-prepared leader who understands the demands of governance, stressing that his impressive achievements across various sectors had earned him the confidence of the Muslim community.

In his remarks, the President Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Ahmed Bakare, said the Muslim community had never had it so good in the state.

He noted that over 50 Muslims currently hold various positions in the current administration, describing the gesture as unprecedented in the history of the state and a clear reflection of fairness and inclusion.

Responding, governor Oyebanji expressed appreciation to the Muslim community for their prayers, loyalty and support for his administration.

He said the purpose of his visit was not to canvass for votes, but to convey his appreciation to them and seek continued prayers for the success of his administration and the forthcoming election.

Oyebanji said contrary to the belief that second term governors often underperform, he said he intends to deliver more impactful projects and programme across sectors in his second term.

According to him, ‘My coming here is not to canvass for vote because I know you will vote for me, I am here for three reasons: First is to come and thank you, second is to come and seek for your prayers, and the third is that I don’t want to take you for granted, I see all you are doing and I know you are ready for the election but that doesn’t not mean I should now take you for granted.’

The Federal Government and its development partners have intensified efforts to accelerate the implementation of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme, a flagship initiative expected to create over 500,000 jobs, reduce post-harvest losses and transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector into a globally competitive agribusiness industry.

This was the focus of discussions at the SAPZ Programme Mid-Term Review Workshop held in Abuja, where government officials, development partners and stakeholders assessed progress made under the first phase of the project and outlined measures to fast-track implementation.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, described SAPZ as one of the most strategic interventions in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation agenda.

According to him, the programme aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on food security, economic diversification, industrialisation, rural development and job creation.

‘The objective is not merely to increase agricultural output, but to transform agriculture into a modern, competitive and wealth-creating sector capable of driving economic diversification, generating employment opportunities, enhancing food security and boosting export earnings,’ Ogunbiyi said.

He explained that the SAPZ initiative was designed to address long-standing challenges in Nigeria’s agricultural value chains, including weak market linkages, inadequate processing infrastructure, high post-harvest losses and limited value addition.

The programme seeks to establish integrated agro-industrial hubs that connect production, processing, storage, logistics and marketing systems within designated economic zones.

Ogunbiyi disclosed that the first phase of the programme is currently being implemented in seven states and the Federal Capital Territory, while preparations for the second phase are already underway.

He noted that the project is expected to generate about 500,000 direct and indirect jobs per project location and create approximately 2.5 million temporary jobs through infrastructure development and related services.

The Permanent Secretary further stated that SAPZ aims to improve crop yields from current levels of between five and 10 per cent to between 50 and 100 per cent, while reducing post-harvest losses from 45 per cent to 20 per cent.

He, however, acknowledged implementation challenges, including low disbursement rates, procurement bottlenecks, delays in approvals and slow infrastructure development across participating states.

‘We must critically examine areas where implementation has fallen below expectations, identify emerging risks and develop practical solutions to accelerate programme delivery,’ he said.

In a major boost for agribusiness and export development, Ogunbiyi revealed that more than 100 agribusiness companies and entrepreneurs recently received the SON/ARSO Quality Mark, while over 178 processed agricultural products were awarded African Quality Standard Certification.

According to him, the certification gives the beneficiaries direct access to markets across 54 African countries under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.

In his presentation, the National Programme Coordinator of SAPZ, Dr Kabir Yusuf, explained that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and state governments, developed a five-year Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone Programme in seven participating states – Kano, Imo, Kaduna, Cross River, Kwara, Oyo and Ogun – and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the first phase.

He said the programme development objective is to support inclusive and sustainable agro-industrial development in Nigeria, aimed at diversifying the country’s economy through agriculture and reducing the food import bill.

‘SAPZ is a cross-cutting platform to attract private sector investment into value-added agro processing to unlock opportunities for improved food security, job creation, export earnings, rural poverty reduction and increased contribution of agriculture to national GDP,’ he noted.

He further noted that the proposed Phase II of the SAPZ Programme is structured in three parallel tranches to build on complementarities and lessons from Phase I.

He explained that Tranche 1 of the project focuses on 10 states based on quality feasibility studies, strong private sector developer interest and existing brownfields that will require minimal infrastructure and technical assistance.

‘The remaining states will be packaged into two additional tranches, subject to overall readiness and available country headroom. Good feasibility studies, evidence of private sector interest and environmental and social studies are critical criteria for additional investments,’ he said.

Also speaking, the representative of the IFAD Country Director in Nigeria, Isaac Mensah, said the programme had already recorded significant gains among smallholder farmers in participating states.

He disclosed that SAPZ interventions supported by IFAD had reached more than 17,000 smallholder farmers in Kano and Ogun states.

According to him, over 14,000 farmers have received climate information services to improve productivity and resilience, while more than 9,000 farmers have benefited from productivity-enhancing agricultural inputs.

Mensah added that the programme had successfully linked farmers with agro-industrial markets through the Multi-Stakeholder Agribusiness Forum.

He announced that IFAD had approved an additional $50 million investment for the programme, bringing its total commitment to $100 million.

‘IFAD sees SAPZ as an important platform to connect producers to markets, reduce post-harvest losses, stimulate private investment, create jobs and strengthen food systems in ways that are commercially viable and socially inclusive,’ he said.

On the part of the African Development Bank (AfDB), SAPZ Task Manager Dr Orison Amu described the programme as a transformative initiative aimed at boosting rural incomes, strengthening food security and driving sustainable agro-industrial development.

He explained that SAPZ was designed to cluster agro-processing industries around areas of high agricultural potential, enabling production, aggregation, processing and distribution within a modern infrastructure ecosystem.

According to Amu, the programme is expected to increase productivity, encourage import substitution, create jobs, reduce post-harvest losses and enhance value addition across Nigeria’s food systems.

He disclosed that although the programme was approved by AfDB in December 2021, implementation was delayed until March 2023, with the first disbursement conditions only fulfilled in August 2023. Despite the slow start, he said implementation accelerated significantly in 2025.

‘As of March 31, 2026, the commitment rate stood at 41 per cent, representing 86 million dollars, while disbursement reached 12 per cent, equivalent to $25 million,’ he said.

Amu projected that commitments would rise to 70 per cent and disbursement levels to 35 per cent by the end of 2026.

He also revealed that AfDB and its partners are developing Phase II of the programme, which is expected to attract additional investments capable of transforming Nigeria’s agro-industrial landscape and creating thousands of opportunities for young people and agripreneurs.

The Federal Government has said it is considering retaliatory measures against South Africa following renewed attacks, harassment and forced displacement of Nigerians living in the country.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu disclosed this on Monday while speaking with State House correspondents in Abuja, as she condemned what she described as persistent xenophobic attacks targeting Nigerians in South Africa.

According to the minister, arrangements for the voluntary repatriation of affected Nigerians are progressing, with President Bola Tinubu directing that an aircraft be deployed to bring back citizens willing to return home.

She explained that the number of Nigerians seeking evacuation continues to rise as South African authorities and Nigerian officials carry out screening and documentation procedures required before departure.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the Federal Government activated a crisis response unit within the Nigerian Consulate and the country’s mission in Pretoria immediately reports of worsening attacks emerged.

She added that officials are working to assist Nigerians scattered across different provinces and facilitate their movement to designated centres.

The minister dismissed claims that those affected were largely undocumented migrants, insisting that many Nigerians facing attacks are legitimate residents and business owners.

She said Nigerian-owned businesses have been looted and set ablaze, while many citizens have suffered intimidation and other forms of harassment.

She also expressed concern over what she described as inadequate action by South African authorities to stop the attacks and protect victims.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that many Nigerians are living in fear, with some families affected to the extent that children are unable to attend school because of intimidation.

‘Citizens are being harassed. Our citizens, their properties are being looted. Criminal actions are perpetuated on our citizens. The police refuse to do anything.

‘The South African government has not come out strongly, firmly enough to condemn these incidents. So our citizens are imperilled. They are in distress. So they cannot be said to be illegal migrants.

‘People who are doing legitimate business have their shops looted. They have their shops set on fire. Children cannot go to school because they are intimidated in their schools.

‘So to say that Nigerians who are in South Africa doing legitimate business are illegal migrants is absolutely untrue.’

She recalled Nigeria’s support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle, saying successive generations of Nigerians contributed resources, advocacy and other forms of assistance towards the country’s liberation.

‘Nigeria is not happy because Nigeria has sacrificed much for the South African struggle for independence. Nigeria sacrificed quite a lot, committed funds, committed resources to aid South Africa.’

The minister said the current treatment of Nigerians has generated widespread dissatisfaction, stressing that discussions on possible retaliatory actions remain under consideration at the highest levels of government.

She, however, noted that any decision on such measures would require approval through appropriate government channels.

‘That is a situation that we are considering. This is up to our legislature. This is up to the highest. This is a decision that has to be taken at the highest level of government. But it’s not off the table.’

Odumegwu-Ojukwu added that the evacuation exercise is being coordinated with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant government agencies to ensure returning citizens receive necessary support and rehabilitation upon arrival.

Meanwhile, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged action against groups linked to the latest wave of xenophobic attacks directed at foreign nationals in the country.

The unrest has prompted several African countries, including Nigeria, to begin evacuation plans for their citizens. Authorities in Mozambique also reported that five of their nationals were killed during the violence.

Nigeria has made significant strides in transforming its agricultural sector and enhancing food security over the past three years under President Bola Tinubu, according to the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari.

At a stakeholders’ engagement forum on Agricultural and Food Systems Transformation, Senator Kyari highlighted key achievements recorded by the ministry since the current administration took office, particularly in the last two years.

The minister noted that food prices of essential commodities have dropped by up to 50 percent nationwide, reversing the sharp increases witnessed in previous years.

‘Since assuming office, the administration has made food security a top priority. Our efforts are starting to pay off, with a notable impact on food prices,’ Kyari said.

The ministry has focused on developing strategic value chains including rice, maize, wheat, millet, sorghum, yam, cocoa, cassava, soybeans, cotton, and oil palm, among others.

These efforts have created opportunities for millions of smallholder farmers.

Key interventions in 2024 and 2025 include the distribution of high-quality seeds, agrochemicals, safety kits, and pest management packs, alongside extensive capacity-building programmes

These measures have helped many farmers transition from subsistence farming to viable agribusinesses.

A 2025 Agricultural Performance Survey conducted by the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS) in collaboration with the Ministry confirmed higher outputs in major crops such as rice, maize, sorghum, millet, cowpea, yam, and cassava compared to 2024.

The government distributed over 1.9 million bags of fertilisers to nearly one million farmers.

Additional achievements include the promotion of organic fertilisers, with 12,000 litres distributed, the training of 109 fertilizer inspectors, and the training of over 329 industry stakeholders on regulatory compliance.

The ministry also established a National Reference Laboratory and upgraded the National Fertiliser Management Platform to improve quality control and curb the circulation of fake fertilisers.

Over 3,500 farmers were trained on sustainable soil management practices.

Significant investments were made in rural infrastructure, including the construction of approximately 170 kilometres of asphalt roads and 57 kilometres of earth roads.

The Ministry also provided 296 motorized and solar-powered boreholes with water treatment plants, installed 3,596 solar street lights, and constructed 69 rural housing and market facilities.

In 2025, the Ministry launched the Renewed Hope Agricultural Mechanization Programme with the deployment of 2,000 tractors and other agricultural equipment.

It also established 10 large-scale integrated processing plants across the six geopolitical zones and set up seven composite flour milling factories.

Two agribusiness incubation centres were also established at Federal University Lokoja and Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike.

The Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ), supported by the African Development Bank, recorded notable early successes, including the profiling of 7,398 farmers, cultivation of 409 hectares under climate-resilient practices, and improved rice yields averaging five metric tons per hectare.

The National Agricultural Growth Scheme – Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP) registered over 647,500 farmers and supported 622,818 with subsidized inputs, contributing to a 30 percent increase in crop production in participating states.

Under the Nigerian Farmers Soil Health Scheme, pilot soil assessment laboratories were installed in four states, while farmers recorded up to 20 percent yield increases through improved soil testing and fertilizer recommendations.

The Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation provided N700 billion risk cover to 199,275 farmers.

The Bank of Agriculture also received a N250 billion facility to provide single-digit interest loans to smallholder farmers.

The National Agricultural Development Fund supported various value chains and flood-affected farmers.

The Ministry further strengthened cooperatives by registering 40 National Cooperative Apexes and training their leaders, while enhancing export readiness through the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service for 30 key agro-commodities.

Senator Kyari emphasised special attention to women and youths through gender-responsive extension services, access to credit, and training in climate-smart agriculture.

The Ministry also adopted the First Lady’s ‘Every Home a Garden’ initiative to promote household food production.

The Minister acknowledged collaboration with sister ministries, including the Ministry of Livestock Development, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, and Ministry of Water Resources, stressing the importance of sustained stakeholder engagement.

While acknowledging remaining challenges, Senator Kyari expressed optimism that sustained collaboration, innovation, and investment would further strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural sector and achieve lasting food security.

THE ongoing implementation of the fourth edition of the Foreign Exchange Manual by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) since June 1, has strengthened the naira and triggered foreign reserves growth. The naira appreciation was supported by improved liquidity in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) window, alongside growing external reserves that have continued to bolster confidence in the market. The naira appreciated by N5.74 at the official market, closing at N1,361.05 to dollar. The gross external reserves climbed to a record $50.04 billion, reinforcing investor confidence and boosting the CBN’s capacity to support the local currency. The naira and foreign reserves have continued to soar since the June 1 takeoff of the new Foreign Exchange Manual inaugurated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The new manual is expected to deepen FX transparency, improve liquidity and strengthen market confidence and liquidity. The new policy also aligns with the CBN’s broader vision of ensuring that businesses and individual have equal access to FX in a transparent and liquid market. The naira strengthened further against the dollar across foreign exchange (FX) market segments, signifying improving transparency, consistency, and efficiency in the country’s FX market.

Data published by the CBN showed that the naira appreciated by N5.74 at the official market, with the dollar quoted at N1,361.05 last week compared to N1,366.79 on Monday. In the parallel market, commonly referred to as the black market, the naira remained unchanged at N1,385 per dollar. As a result, the gap between the official and parallel market exchange rates widened to N24 per dollar on Tuesday from N19 recorded on Monday. Nigeria’s external reserves, which provide the CBN with the capacity to support the local currency and meet external obligations, have continued to rise steadily. Data published on the apex bank’s website showed that reserves increased to $49.80 billion as of June 1, 2026, from $48.32 billion recorded on May 7. The gross external reserves have further climbed to a record $50.04 billion, reinforcing investor confidence and boosting the CBN’s capacity to support the local currency.

Under the new guidelines, Authorised Dealers are permitted to engage in spot foreign exchange transactions among themselves, with customers, and with the CBN in any acceptable foreign currency for delivery within a maximum of two business days (T+2). The manual stipulates that all interbank spot transactions must be executed through an electronic trading system approved by the CBN. The apex bank further directed Authorised Dealer banks to maintain adequate credit, settlement, and risk limits for all counterparties participating on the approved trading platform. Banks are also required to strictly comply with Net Open Position (NOP) limits and ensure that no breaches occur at the close of any trading session. The manual also allows Authorised Dealer banks to conduct spot foreign exchange transactions with non-resident customers and clients in any acceptable foreign currency, provided settlement is completed

The new manual, is expected to serve as a fresh regulatory guide for banks, importers, exporters, government agencies, and other participants in the foreign exchange market. For decades, Nigeria’s foreign exchange market has remained one of the most sensitive parts of the country’s economy. Any movement in the value of the naira directly affects prices of food, transport, school fees, medicines, fuel, manufacturing costs, and the general cost of living. Businesses depend heavily on foreign exchange to import raw materials and machinery, while investors closely study the stability of the market before bringing money into the country. For ordinary Nigerians, the foreign exchange market may appear distant and technical, but its impact is felt daily through inflation, jobs, purchasing power, and overall economic confidence. It is against this critical background that the launch of this fourth edition has attracted widespread attention across the financial sector, banking industry, and business community.

In recent years, Nigeria has battled severe pressure on the naira, low foreign exchange liquidity, multiple exchange rates, speculative trading, and declining investor confidence. These structural problems created deep uncertainty for businesses and contributed significantly to inflationary pressure across the country. For years, many manufacturers complained that they could not access foreign exchange to import raw materials, while airlines struggled to repatriate their earnings. Foreign investors frequently delayed investments because they feared they would be unable to take out profits when necessary, and the country witnessed a wide gap between official and parallel market exchange rates at different periods. The launch of the new manual therefore represents much more than a routine regulatory update, reflecting the latest phase of a broader effort by the central bank to rebuild confidence in the Nigerian foreign exchange system after years of instability. At the official launch, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, described the new manual as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s macroeconomic foundation, improve transparency, and restore confidence in the foreign exchange market.

His remarks went beyond the unveiling of a policy document, reflecting the broader direction of the current foreign exchange reforms being pursued by the apex bank under the present administration. Cardoso made it clear that the foreign exchange market is not simply a platform for buying and selling dollars.

According to his policy philosophy, it plays a major role in determining price stability, investment confidence, and the smooth movement of goods and capital within an economy that is connected to global markets. He noted that foreign exchange is a critical enabler in any open economy because it anchors price stability, facilitates the flow of goods and capital, and shapes investor sentiment.

The Deputy Governor for Economic Policy, Mohammed Sani Abdullahi, whose presentation preceded Cardoso’s remarks, provided deeper technical details regarding the operational provisions of the manual.

His contribution showed clearly that the revised manual is not merely an administrative document, but is a major component of the ongoing transformation of Nigeria’s foreign exchange market and wider financial system.

Abdullahi traced the origins of the reform initiative to the assumption of office by Cardoso, noting it was initiated from the beginning of the administration to restore confidence, improve transparency, deepen liquidity, and strengthen the market.

This demonstrates that the review was not an isolated exercise, but forms part of a broader restructuring of Nigeria’s monetary and exchange rate framework. The deputy governor said the central bank recognised the urgent need for a framework that reflects current realities, aligns with international standards, reduces inefficiencies, and supports a more transparent, rules-based, and market-oriented system. This facilitates clearer price discovery, which is the process through which market forces determine exchange rates based on demand and supply conditions.

The contributions of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, the banking industry leadership, and major commercial bank executives further expanded the significance of the launch, showing a rare level of alignment between fiscal authorities, monetary regulators, and the banking sector.

Representing the Minister of Finance, the Permanent Secretary for Special Duties, Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma, described the manual as a major step in the country’s effort to strengthen its foreign exchange management system.

His remarks reflected the position of the federal government that foreign exchange reform is not solely a monetary policy matter but a key part of Nigeria’s wider economic transformation agenda.

Danjuma noted that the launch comes at a strategic period as the country continues implementing bold fiscal and non-fiscal reforms under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including fuel subsidy removal, tax reforms, and exchange rate liberalisation.

While these measures were introduced to correct long-standing economic distortions, they initially contributed to rising inflation and increased living costs, creating pressure on households and businesses.

The finance ministry’s endorsement therefore signals strong, continued alignment on the reform agenda, with Danjuma noting that policy consistency and predictability are absolutely essential for investment and growth.

Offering a perspective from the commercial banking operators, Oliver Alawuba, the Chairman of the Body of Banks’ Chief Executives and Group Managing Director of United Bank for Africa, described the revised manual as part of a broader policy direction anchored on transparency, ethical conduct, stronger documentation, and improved oversight.

He linked it directly to earlier initiatives such as the Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System and the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Code, which are designed to modernise market governance.

Alawuba made a striking comparison between the current foreign exchange market and the situation two or three years ago, noting that in the past, bank customers constantly asked whether banks had foreign exchange available, whereas today the table has been turned to the point where banks now ask customers whether they have foreign exchange to sell. This reflects what banking executives see as a substantial improvement in liquidity and stronger confidence in formal market participation, shifting away from an era of severe scarcity where the central bank was the primary supplier through forced periodic interventions.

Nigeria recorded $10.37 billion in capital importation in the first quarter of 2026, marking an 83.8 per cent rise compared to the $5.64 billion achieved in the corresponding period of 2025.

This followed foreign investors ramped up purchases of money market instruments and bonds.

This is according to the latest data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) stated. The data showed that capital inflows also rose by 61% quarter-on-quarter from $6.44 billion recorded in the fourth quarter of 2025, underscoring growing investor appetite for Nigerian financial assets.

The report said, ‘In Q1 2026, total capital importation into Nigeria stood at $10.37 billion, higher than $5.64 billion recorded in Q1 2025, indicating an increase of 83.83 per cent. In comparison to the preceding quarter, capital importation increased by 60.97 per cent from $6.44 billion in Q4 2025.’

Portfolio investment remained the primary driver of capital importation during the quarter, accounting for $9.86 billion or 95.1 per cent of total inflows.

The figure represents an 89.5 per cent increase from the corresponding period of 2025 and a 79.8 per cent rise from the previous quarter. Within the category, money market instruments attracted $6.50 billion, while investments in bonds stood at $3.23 billion. The two asset classes jointly accounted for over 98 per cent of portfolio inflows.

In contrast, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) remained weak despite a marginal annual improvement. FDI inflows stood at $135.08 million, representing just 1.3 per cent of total capital importation during the period. While this was 7 per cent higher than the level recorded a year earlier, it declined by more than 62 per cent from the previous quarter.

Other investments contributed $374.48 million, accounting for 3.6% of total inflows. Loans made up the bulk of this category at $364.43 million, while trade credits accounted for $10 million. The latest figures highlight the continued preference of foreign investors for short-term financial assets over long-term productive investments in the economy.

Sectoral analysis showed that the banking industry remained the biggest destination for foreign capital. The sector attracted $7.55 billion, representing 72.8 per cent of total capital imported into the country during the quarter.

The financing sector followed with $2.43 billion or 23.4 per cent, meaning the two sectors accounted for more than 96 per cent of all inflows recorded during the period. The production and manufacturing sector received $152.27 million, while investments in shares stood at $75.34 million.

African trade union leaders and workers’ representatives have call for action against corruption, widening inequality and violent conflicts across the continent, declaring that Africa’s vast wealth must benefit its people rather than a privileged few.

The call was made during a rally organised by the African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) on the sidelines of the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC), in Geneva, Switzerland.

The gathering brought together trade unionists and allies from across Africa who voiced concerns over what they described as the interconnected crises of kleptocracy, extreme inequality and insecurity, which continue to undermine democracy, development and social justice on the continent.

Speaking at the rally, ITUC-Africa General Secretary, Akhator Joel Odigie, lamented that corruption, illicit financial flows, state capture and unsustainable debt have continued to deprive millions of Africans of decent living conditions despite the continent’s abundant resources.

‘Corruption steals jobs. Corruption steals schools. Corruption steals hospitals. Corruption steals the future,’ Odigie declared.

He stressed that Africa is not a poor continent but blessed with immense natural resources, human talent and economic potential. According to him, the tragedy lies in the failure to deploy the resources for the benefit of ordinary citizens.

‘Millions remain trapped in poverty because wealth is not being used to advance the wellbeing of the people,’ he said.

The workers called on African governments and international institutions to strengthen efforts to combat corruption and illicit financial flows, improve transparency and accountability, and implement progressive taxation policies, including fair taxation of multinational corporations and wealthy individuals.

The rally also drew attention to the growing gap between the rich and the poor across the continent. Participants warned that while wealth continues to accumulate in the hands of a small elite, millions of workers are struggling with unemployment, low wages, precarious jobs and inadequate social protection.

Echoing findings in Oxfam’s 2026 Inequality Report, the workers insisted that the world’s wealthiest individuals and corporations must contribute a fairer share toward addressing social and economic disparities.

‘The super-rich must pay their fair share. Everyone deserves dignity, decent work and social protection,’ the statement noted.

Beyond economic concerns, African workers used the occasion to express solidarity with victims of ongoing conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where violence has displaced millions and devastated livelihoods.

The union leaders called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, greater protection for civilians and workers, and an end to external interference that fuels instability and prolongs conflict in the affected countries.

The rally further highlighted concerns over the shrinking democratic space and the erosion of workers’ rights globally.

According to ITUC-Africa, the recently released 2026 ITUC Global Rights Index paints a worrying picture of growing restrictions on fundamental freedoms, including the rights of workers to organise, bargain collectively and embark on lawful industrial action.

The organisation warned that sustainable democracy cannot thrive where corruption is rampant, inequality deepens and conflicts remain unresolved.

‘Africa’s future must be founded on peace, accountability, decent work, strong public services, social protection and shared prosperity,’ the statement emphasised.

As deliberations continue at the International Labour Conference, African workers said their message to governments, policymakers and global institutions remains clear and urgent: ‘Africa’s wealth must serve Africa’s people, not the interests of a few.’