Category: Nigerian Tribune

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has taken a significant step toward stimulating economic growth by cutting its benchmark interest rate, the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), to 27 percent-a 50-basis-point reduction.

The decision, announced at the 302nd Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting held on September 22-23, 2025, marks a cautious but deliberate pivot from a prolonged period of monetary tightening toward a more growth-oriented policy stance.

The CBN’s move, which aligns Nigeria with the global trend of monetary easing, comes on the heels of five straight months of disinflation, stronger external reserves, and a rebounding oil sector that helped push economic growth to its fastest pace in over two years.

According to official data, headline inflation slowed to 20.12 percent in August 2025, down from 21.88 percent in July, while Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanded by 4.23 percent in the second quarter of 2025, driven largely by a 20.46 percent rebound in oil output and resilient performance in the non-oil sectors.

In its communiqué, the MPC stated: ‘The stability in the macroeconomic environment has offered headroom for monetary policy to support economic recovery.’

The cut is expected to lower borrowing costs, stimulate credit expansion, and boost consumer and business confidence, particularly among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that have struggled with high financing costs.

The new monetary stance goes beyond a simple rate cut. Alongside the lower MPR, the CBN introduced several complementary measures to balance growth with financial stability.

The Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) for commercial banks was maintained at 45 percent, while a new 75 percent CRR on non-TSA (Treasury Single Account) public sector deposits was introduced to tighten liquidity and prevent excessive money supply growth. The liquidity ratio was held at 30 percent, maintaining stability in banks’ short-term funding positions.

Analysts say the combination of measures reflects a calibrated easing strategy-a bid to stimulate growth while ensuring inflation expectations remain anchored and excess liquidity does not undermine financial system stability.

Between optimism and caution

Financial market experts largely welcomed the decision but warned that its effectiveness depends on how well the policy transmits through the banking system to the real economy.

Mr. Bismarck Rewane, Managing Director of Financial Derivatives Company Limited, described the rate cut as ‘tactically appropriate,’ given moderating inflation and relative exchange rate stability.

‘The CBN is seizing the opportunity provided by the disinflationary trend to stimulate the economy,’ Rewane said. ‘But the success of this rate cut depends on whether banks can actually lend at lower rates and whether businesses can absorb that credit effectively.’

He cautioned, however, that while Nigeria is aligning with global monetary easing, underlying risks remain.

‘Globally, central banks are cutting rates to encourage growth, but Nigeria’s inflation is still above 20 percent. Without structural reforms-particularly in energy, logistics, and fiscal policy-the benefits could be muted,’ he added.

Rewane concluded that while the MPR cut sends a positive signal, the real test lies in the country’s ability to complement monetary easing with structural and fiscal reforms that enhance productivity and competitiveness.

Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), also commended the move, describing it as a ‘much-needed relief’ for Nigeria’s struggling private sector.

‘This is a step in the right direction. Businesses have been grappling with lending rates often exceeding 30 percent. The reduction in MPR sends a strong signal to the market and could help ease financing costs, especially for SMEs,’ Yusuf noted.

He argued that the CBN’s decision reflects a more balanced approach between price stability and growth.

‘For too long, monetary policy has been skewed toward inflation control, often at the expense of growth and job creation. This easing shows that the CBN is beginning to recalibrate toward supporting recovery and employment generation,’ he said.

Yusuf further urged fiscal authorities to complement the monetary easing with targeted interventions such as tax reliefs, infrastructure investment, and production incentives to ensure the policy achieves tangible outcomes.

Mr. Tilewa Adebajo, CEO of The CFG Advisory, viewed Nigeria’s rate cut as part of a global synchronisation of monetary easing after years of tight policy across major economies.

‘We are seeing the U.S. Federal Reserve, the European Central Bank, and several emerging market central banks pivot toward easing after extended tightening cycles. Nigeria’s move is consistent with this global realignment,’ Adebajo said.

He pointed out that Nigeria’s improving external position-with foreign reserves rising to $43.05 billion (covering 8.28 months of imports) and a current account surplus of $5.28 billion-has given the country room to support growth without immediately risking macroeconomic instability.

‘The stronger reserves and a surplus current account provide a buffer against capital outflows. However, global uncertainties-from geopolitical tensions to commodity price volatility-could quickly alter the landscape. Policymakers must remain agile,’ he cautioned.

For Adebajo, the key to sustaining investor confidence lies in policy consistency and credibility.

‘This decision signals to investors that Nigeria is committed to growth while managing risks. But execution will be the real test,’ he said.

Global context

Nigeria’s policy pivot mirrors a broader global trend. Across major economies, central banks are transitioning from an era of steep rate hikes to one of measured easing, as inflation pressures ease and growth weakens.

In the United States, the Federal Reserve has hinted at cutting rates in late 2025 as inflation falls toward its 2 percent target and the labor market cools. The European Central Bank (ECB) reduced its key rates earlier in the year to support a sluggish Eurozone economy.

In emerging markets, countries like Brazil, Chile, and South Africa have already embarked on rate-cutting cycles, reversing the aggressive tightening implemented between 2021 and 2023 to combat post-pandemic inflation.

By aligning with this trend, Nigeria ensures its monetary stance remains competitive and avoids creating wide interest rate differentials that could trigger capital flight or speculative attacks on the naira.

Domestic backdrop

The MPC’s decision was underpinned by notable improvements in Nigeria’s macroeconomic indicators:

Inflation moderation: Headline inflation declined to 20.12 percent in August, with both food and core inflation easing.

Economic expansion: GDP grew by 4.23 percent in Q2 2025, driven by oil output recovery and steady non-oil sector activity.

External reserves: Increased to $43.05 billion, reflecting higher oil receipts and improved foreign inflows.

Current account surplus: Widened to $5.28 billion, offering a buffer against external shocks.

Bank recapitalisation: Ongoing efforts have strengthened financial system resilience, with 14 banks already meeting new capital thresholds.

These developments provided the CBN with ‘policy space’-the ability to cut rates without triggering instability or undermining its credibility.

However, despite improved fundamentals, significant structural challenges persist. The MPC flagged the build-up of excess liquidity in the banking system from government spending as a risk to the disinflation trend.

Other long-standing constraints include: Poor infrastructure, especially in power and logistics; High levels of informality limiting monetary policy reach; Shallow credit penetration reducing the impact of rate cuts; External vulnerabilities linked to oil price swings, geopolitical risks, and volatile capital flows.

Outlook

Looking ahead, the MPC projects continued disinflation in the coming months, supported by a stable exchange rate, easing global energy prices, and improved domestic food supply following the harvest season.

If these trends persist, analysts believe the CBN could have room for further easing later in 2025. But many caution that rate cuts alone will not deliver sustainable growth.

‘Cutting rates is the easy part,’ Rewane observed. ‘Ensuring that those cuts translate into real economic activity is the harder challenge.’

To maximise impact, experts recommend stronger coordination between monetary and fiscal policy, sustained structural reforms, and measures to boost productivity and expand access to finance.

The CBN’s latest decision is, therefore, both symbolic and strategic-a signal of intent to shift toward growth, attract investment, and align Nigeria’s monetary direction with global realities.

By easing rates, the CBN has set the tone for a new phase in Nigeria’s monetary policy journey-one that prioritizes growth without losing sight of stability. It is a reflection of confidence in recent macroeconomic gains and an acknowledgment of the need to stimulate domestic investment and job creation.

Whether this strategy delivers tangible outcomes will depend on execution, structural reforms, and policy coherence.

As Tilewa Adebajo aptly summarised: ‘Nigeria is finally moving in step with the global orchestra of monetary easing. The challenge is ensuring that this harmony produces real, inclusive, and sustainable growth.’

For now, investors and businesses are watching closely. The CBN’s latest move could mark the beginning of a more balanced, forward-looking era in Nigeria’s monetary management-one that seeks to restore confidence, deepen markets, and unlock the country’s long-term growth potential.

The reforms by the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa have been praised as Ondo State is fast shedding its old image as a civil service-dominated economy and emerging as one of Nigeria’s most promising business and investment destinations.

The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, made this known in Akure while highlighting the government’s multi-sectoral efforts aimed at transforming the state into a vibrant economic hub through the OUR EASE Agenda.

Ajanaku explained that the state’s transformation is anchored on strategic investments in infrastructure, power, agriculture, tourism, and revenue generation, all of which are repositioning Ondo State for sustainable growth and investor confidence.

The Commissioner commended the Ministry of Energy and Power for its remarkable progress in improving electricity access and reliability across the state.

According to him, the distribution of over 13,000 prepaid meters to residents and small business owners has drastically reduced estimated billing, enhanced transparency, and boosted the confidence of investors.

He further noted that the Ondo State Power Company (OSPC) has intensified regulatory oversight and coordination with distribution companies to ensure stable power supply. This, he said, has led to increased productivity and expansion for many small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), creating a new wave of business optimism across the state.

‘Regular electricity supply is the backbone of industrial development, and Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration understands this clearly. The renewed energy policy and the state power company’s efficiency are already driving business growth,’ Ajanaku added.

The Commissioner also commended the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service (ODIRS) for its excellent drive and dedication in boosting the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

He said ODIRS has improved revenue collection systems through digital innovation, tax education, and transparent operations – strategies that have strengthened the state’s fiscal capacity to fund infrastructure and social projects.

‘The IGR drive has not only increased the state’s financial independence but also built public confidence in government accountability and service delivery,’ Ajanaku emphasised.

Ajanaku described infrastructure as a cornerstone of the Aiyedatiwa administration’s economic policy. He listed several ongoing road projects including the Ikare-Akungba dualization, Akure-Idanre dualization, Okitipupa-Igbokoda road, flyover bridge on Akure – Ilesa expressway and multiple internal road rehabilitations as evidence of the government’s commitment to ease movement and business accessibility.

He further mentioned Araromi-Lekki road, which will link Ondo directly to Lagos, significantly expanding trade, logistics, and tourism opportunities if completed.

‘When these infrastructure projects are completed, Ondo will naturally attract industries, logistics companies, and investors seeking a business-friendly location between the South-West and South-South corridors,’ he stated.

He also spoke on the forthcoming Port Ondo project, describing it as a ‘game changer’ that will open up new frontiers in maritime trade, logistics, and industrialization.

Highlighting the state’s vast agricultural potential, Ajanaku reiterated that Ondo remains Nigeria’s leading cocoa producer and the second largest in West Africa. He said the government is strengthening value addition and agribusiness investment to create jobs and boost export revenue.

In tourism, he announced the government’s approval for the revival of the annual MARE Mountain Climbing Festival in Idanre, scheduled for December, which will further stimulate the local economy and attract investors through public-private partnerships.

Hon. Ajanaku concluded with a confident appeal to both local and foreign investors to take advantage of the state’s ongoing transformation.

‘Ondo State is ready for business. We have the resources, strategic location, power stability, and transparent governance that investors are looking for. The Aiyedatiwa administration is determined to turn Ondo into Nigeria’s next business hub.’

The Pan-African Regulatory Excellence Forum (PAREF) has commended the appointment of Gbenga Komolafe, chief executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), as the interim chairman of the newly launched African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF), describing it as a ‘fitting recognition of Nigeria’s reform leadership in the oil and gas sector’.

In a statement signed on Monday by its executive director, Dr Aisha Njoroge, PAREF said Komolafe’s emergence reflects Africa’s growing confidence in Nigeria’s regulatory reforms and its capacity to drive a new era of collaboration across the continent’s petroleum industry.

AFRIPERF, inaugurated during the Africa Oil Week in Accra, Ghana, on September 18, 2025, brings together petroleum regulators from 16 African countries, eight of which – including Nigeria, Ghana, Gambia, Madagascar, Sudan, Guinea, Togo, and Somalia – have already signed the forum’s charter.

The body aims to harmonise oil and gas laws, standards, and compliance systems across Africa, addressing decades of policy fragmentation that have discouraged cross-border investment and weakened collective bargaining power in global markets.

PAREF described Komolafe’s appointment as ‘a vote of confidence in reform-driven leadership and Nigeria’s commitment to transparency and innovation’.

‘The emergence of Gbenga Komolafe as interim chairman of AFRIPERF is a significant step for Africa’s energy governance. It validates Nigeria’s post-PIA reforms and offers a rare opportunity to convert the rhetoric of regional cooperation into measurable outcomes,’ the statement read.

Dr Njoroge said the forum must demonstrate early credibility by focusing on harmonisation of gas measurement standards, emissions regulations, digital compliance systems, and transparent reporting templates for oil and gas production.

‘The success of AFRIPERF will not depend on how many countries join, but on the quality of what it delivers. The continent cannot afford another bureaucratic platform. AFRIPERF must be a practical institution that strengthens efficiency, transparency, and environmental responsibility,’ she said.

According to PAREF, Africa’s oil-producing nations currently operate under widely differing fiscal regimes, licensing procedures, and environmental standards; challenges that have limited intra-African trade and created inefficiencies in investment management.

The think tank said the establishment of AFRIPERF under Komolafe’s leadership presents an opportunity to address these gaps and position Africa as a more coordinated bloc in global energy diplomacy.

However, PAREF warned that the success of the initiative will depend on inclusivity and independence from political interference.

‘Regulatory convergence should not become regulatory domination. Smaller or less-resourced countries must not be sidelined. Every member must have an equal voice in the decision-making process if the forum is to maintain legitimacy,’ Njoroge cautioned.

She also raised concerns about capacity disparity among African regulators, noting that while some countries have digitised regulatory systems and robust data monitoring frameworks, others still rely on manual audits and outdated infrastructure.

‘AFRIPERF must create mechanisms for shared learning and resource pooling. Without a plan for cross-border training and knowledge exchange, the forum may inadvertently deepen existing inequalities,’ she added.

On financing, PAREF advised that the forum should adopt a transparent and sustainable funding model, avoiding overdependence on donor agencies.

‘AFRIPERF’s independence is crucial. While partnerships with development institutions may help, Africa’s regulatory destiny must be defined by African priorities, not external agendas. Member states should fund the forum equitably and transparently,’ the statement said.

Dr Njoroge said Komolafe’s track record at NUPRC – particularly his focus on data transparency, digital licensing, host community development, and anti-theft monitoring systems – makes him ‘uniquely qualified’ to lead the continent’s regulatory convergence effort.

She added that Nigeria’s Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) reforms of 2021 had already positioned the NUPRC as one of Africa’s most advanced energy regulators, providing a model that AFRIPERF could replicate.

‘With Mr. Komolafe’s experience, Africa now has a chance to build a truly harmonised petroleum regulatory framework that supports energy transition, economic diversification, and shared prosperity,’ she said.

The forum urged African governments to support AFRIPERF’s agenda and to ‘seize this moment to build a united front in global energy governance’.

‘Africa must speak with one voice. Komolafe’s leadership offers the credibility, but the continent must now provide the political will,’ Njoroge advised.

The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to repositioning the country’s education system to meet the demands of the digital economy and align with global best practices.

He gave this assurance in Lagos during the official launch of the Digitalisation of Public Schools Initiative and the flag-off of the distribution of interactive smartboards at Queen’s College, Lagos, on Friday.

No fewer than 800 of the digital boards have already been distributed to some public schools across the country.

The scheme will cover both federal government colleges and state-owned secondary schools, even as the smartboard distribution exercise is part of a long-term plan.

According to the minister, the Digitalisation of Public Schools scheme aims to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has access to quality and technology-enabled learning.

Alausa stated that the introduction of smartboards would gradually phase out traditional chalkboards, which promote one-directional teaching and learning across public schools in the country.

He said the shift would make teaching and learning more dynamic, interactive, and technology-driven, allowing students to engage and explore more effectively.

The minister pointed out that the smartboards would enable teachers to integrate multimedia, digital textbooks, and real-time interaction into their lessons, while learners would go beyond listening to touching, exploring, and engaging.

The initiative seeks to strengthen the country’s basic education system, empower teachers with innovative instructional tools, and improve learning outcomes.

To foster innovation, the minister also announced plans to establish Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM) as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centres nationwide.

He said this step would be taken in partnership with various state governments and the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN) to build capacity for STEMM educators, promote inquiry-based learning, and expand teacher digital literacy and EdTech training to make classrooms smarter and teachers more effective.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Aisha Garba, underscored the significance of the initiative, describing it as a clear demonstration of the government’s resolve to bring technology directly into the classroom.

She observed that with smartboards, teachers would be able to integrate multimedia content, simulations, and real-time feedback during lessons, while pupils could interact more actively.

She noted that this reflects the evolution of education in today’s technology-driven economy, where education is no longer a mere process of instruction but an experience of discovery.

According to her, through digital tools such as smartboards, tablets, and online content, learners will have access to quality learning opportunities that meet global standards.

Garba, however, called on stakeholders-especially corporate organisations and individuals-to support the project, stressing that the government alone cannot achieve the vision of bringing digital learning to all public schools.

She noted that UBEC also has other plans to strengthen the country’s basic education system, identifying digital capacity building for teachers and the development of localised digital learning content as key priorities.

Speaking on the initiative, the Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Jamiu Alli-Balogun, described it as a significant milestone in the government’s quest to bridge the digital divide by ensuring that every child, regardless of socio-economic background, has access to digital tools for quality education.

He noted that Lagos State prioritises digital learning as well as technical and vocational education, as embedded in the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda of the current administration.

He said the state government believes that every child has the right to acquire the necessary skills to become more creative, inventive, and solution-oriented as they grow into adulthood.

He added that the introduction of interactive smartboards in public schools would revolutionise the way teachers teach and students learn, making lessons more effective and engaging, and learners more inquisitive and interactive.

The step, he said, will help the country achieve its goal of producing well-rounded and globally competitive citizens.

Alli-Balogun commended UBEC for its efforts in promoting basic education across the country and also lauded development partners for their collaboration in supporting the agency’s initiatives.

He urged the intended users of the smartboards to make good use of the tools.

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Despite the environmental implications like air pollution and climate change, among others, many Nigerians are resorting to the use of charcoal and firewood as alternative fuel.

This is not unconnected to the surge in the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), popularly known as cooking gas, which has hit N1,500 per kilogramme in some locations in Lagos.

Apart from the price hike, many gas stations have refused to open shops, while some are doing skeletal services, thereby creating artificial scarcity and giving room for vendors to make brisk business out of the situation.

From Oshodi to Ikeja, Mushin, Agege, Iyana Ipaja, Ogba, Abule Egba and Ayobo, among other locations, Lagos residents have different stories to tell about the surge in price and scarcity of cooking gas in their localities.

Speaking with the Nigerian Tribune, some of the residents said they bought cooking gas at the weekend between N1,100 and N1,500 per kilogramme.

Mrs. Titi Adekunle, a trader who resides in Ogba, Lagos, said she just bought two small charcoal pots at N15,000 and N20,000 respectively following the scarcity of cooking gas in the neighborhood.

She said that the charcoal pot she bought at N15,000 jumped to N20,000 three days after due to popular demand for the product.

She bemoaned the unnecessary scarcity and struggle for cooking gas by Nigerians, describing the situation as ‘shameful,’ despite the abundant gas resource in the country.

‘It is not that my cooking gas has finished, but the anxiety that if it finishes, where we will refill influenced my decision to buy the charcoal pots to support the gas cylinder,’ she said.

Another resident in Ojodu, Berger, John Adewale, lamented the high gas price in the vicinity, saying he refilled his 12kg gas cylinder for N30,000, which is N2,500 per kilogramme instead of N1,200 per kg in early September.

Another person, a beans cake (akara) vendor who identified himself simply as Kenneth, said that for some of them who could not afford the current cooking gas price, especially the low-income earners, charcoal and firewood have become the solution.

According to him, with N200 or N250, one could purchase small quantities of charcoal for cooking. He added that one could also get firewood for between N500 and N1,000 from sellers nearby.

A charcoal dealer in Ogba and Agege, Mrs. Anifowose, said that a bag of charcoal costs between N12,000 and N15,000 currently, adding that one could get half a bag for between N6,000 and N7,500 depending on the location.

Also, bread bakers and producers of meat pies are lamenting the situation, threatening to increase prices of their products if the cooking gas price hike persists.

Until recently, many Nigerians assumed the price surge was due to another government-approved increase.

But according to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), there has been no official adjustment in the cost of cooking gas.

The sudden spike, officials say, is linked to a recent strike by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), which disrupted supply.

Also, the National President of the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM), Oladapo Olatunbosun, attributed the price surge to temporary supply disruptions.

‘What is happening is that some marketers are taking advantage of the shortage in supply and market forces that have increased demand. They are cashing in to make quick money, which is wrong,’ Olatunbosun said on a television show.

He assured that the situation is artificial and temporary, and that normalcy is expected to return within days.

One million copies of the Holy Bible are to be distributed across Nigeria in honour of Barrister Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as part of activities marking his birthday.

The initiative was announced during a Thanksgiving service held on Sunday at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.

The event, organised by friends of Seyi Tinubu and coordinated by Hon. Belusochukwu Enwere, National Chairman of the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN), aims to promote moral renewal and ethical leadership among Nigerian youths.

According to the organisers, the Bibles will be shared through churches, schools, and community groups across the country to inspire integrity, compassion, and civic responsibility.

Hon. Enwere explained that the project was conceived not merely as a personal celebration but as a contribution to moral transformation in the nation.

‘The one million Bible project is a gift to the body of Christ and a seed for moral transformation. Through this effort, we hope to restore integrity, compassion, and love for humanity among young Nigerians,’ he said.

The Thanksgiving service, which also held simultaneously in about 40 churches nationwide, featured prayers and messages focused on national renewal.

Rev. Ini Ukpuho, Chaplain of the National Christian Centre, officiated the service and led special prayers for the Tinubu family and the country. Clergymen from various denominations described the initiative as timely, coming at a period of moral decline in society.

In a message read on his behalf, Seyi Tinubu expressed gratitude to the organisers, noting that faith and moral education remain vital to responsible citizenship and national development.

The first batch of Bibles, to be distributed through churches, schools, and youth ministries in the coming weeks, was presented during the service.

A 52-year-old businessman, Ejiofor (surname withheld), has been nabbed by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), Kano following which a total of 127 wraps of cocaine concealed in his private part and stomach were recovered after days under excretion observation.

Ejiofor, who operates boutiques in Lagos and Onitsha, Anambra State, was taken into NDLEA custody upon his arrival from Bangkok, Thailand via Ethiopian Airlines flight ET 941 on October 8 following credible intelligence.

The Director, Media and Advocacy of the NDLEA, Mr Femi Babafemi, said in a statement on Sunday that the suspect was taken for body scan which confirmed he ingested illicit drugs and had some concealed in his private parts.

A total of 58 wraps of cocaine were immediately recovered from his pant after which he was taken for excretion observation during which he egested 69 pellets of cocaine in seven excretions, bringing the total number of wraps of the Class A drug recovered from him to 127 weighing 1.388 kilogrammes.

The statement also said, NDLEA operatives intercepted three consignments of illicit drugs heading to the United Kingdom on Thursday and Friday at a courier company in Lagos.

One of the shipments, 1.74 kilogramme of methamphetamine, was recovered from blocks of glass ceramics, while another shipment contained 114 grammes and 168 grammes of pentazocine and tramadol injections respectively, just as the third consignment contained 48 grammes of tramadol capsules concealed in Vitamin C container, all going to the UK.

Bids by another set of criminal syndicates to ship 2.6kg skunk and 422grammes tapentadol 250mg concealed in tablets of black soap heading to Turkey; 169 grammes of cocaine hidden in lady’s handbags going to Australia and 568 grammes of Loud, a strong strain of cannabis concealed in containers of herbs going to United Arab Emirates, were thwarted by NDLEA operatives at some courier companies in Lagos.

Meanwhile, a total of 27,510 pills of rohypnol concealed in sachets of alcoholic drinks going to South Africa have been intercepted by NDLEA officers at the export shed of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.

After the initial arrest of a freight agent and a cab driver linked to the shipment, a follow-up operation at Oyingbo market in Lagos led to the arrest of the mastermind, 46-year-old Samuel (alias Yellow) on October 2.

Same day, Babafemi said an Italy-based businessman, Enehizena (surname withheld), was arrested by operatives of the NDLEA while attempting to export 3,700 pills of tramadol 225mg and 2,600 tabs of tapentadol 200mg hidden in food items to the European country. He claimed he was trafficking the opioids for someone else for a fee of pound 945.

In Edo State, a raid of the home of a suspect, Emmanuel (surname withheld) at Ugbekpe Ekperi in Etsako Central LGA, led to the recovery of 47 kilogramme skunk, a strain of cannabis and two suspects, were on Wednesday, arrested at Omifufun village, Ife South LGA, Osun State following the seizure of 635 kilogrammes of skunk from their Toyota Hiace bus.

Two other suspects were nabbed at same location with 100 kilogramme skunk recovered from them along with their motorcycle.

While Okoro and Onyebuchi (surnames withheld), were arrested in different parts of Port Harcourt, Rivers State in connection with the seizure of 8.5 kilogramme skunk on Friday, Sulaiman (surname withheld) was nabbed after 29.5kilogramme of same substance was found in his house at Bayan Asiti, Jibia town, Katsina State on Saturday.

In Niger State, NDLEA officers, on October 8, arrested Yisa (surname withheld) at New Bussa, where 22,000 capsules of tramadol, 800 ampoules of pentazocine injection and 150,000 pills of exol-5 were seized from him.

A total of 312 kilogramme skunk was recovered from a bush at Ologede camp, Ogbese, Ondo State while operatives on patrol along Benin-Lagos expressway, on Thursday, intercepted two suspects in a car conveying 141.8 kilogramme skunk.

In Kaduna, a suspect was nabbed at Abuja/Kaduna toll gate while conveying 150,000 pills of Exol-5 from Lagos to Katsina.

While commending the officers and men of MMIA, MAKIA, DOGI, Kano, Edo, Rivers, Kaduna, Katsina, Niger, Ondo, and Osun Commands of the Agency for the arrests and seizures, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brigadier-General Mohamed Marwa (retd) urged them and their compatriots across the country to maintain their tenacity, professionalism and balanced approach to the drug control efforts of the agency.

NIGERIANS began last week on the note of a sizzling report by an online newspaper, Premium Times. The report centred around allegations that our own very Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Techonology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, forged his university degree as well as National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) certificates. The reaction was instantaneous just as it was predictable. Outrage. And this was understable. Ever since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, quite a number of high profile office holders have been caught in the web of one form of certificate forgery scandal or another. The distastful trend began in 1999 with two top principal officers of the National Assembly- Senate President Evan(s) Enwerem and the Speaker, House of Representatives, Salisu Buhari. While Salisu Buhari falsely claimed he attended the University of Toronto, Canada, senators- and indeed, Nigerians – couldn’t tell with certainty if their Senate President was Evan or Evans Enwerem.

Ever since Evan or Evans Enwerem and Salisu Buhari, the issue of certificate forgeries has, like wild fire, caught up with members of the executive arm. For instance, Senator Douye Diri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is governor of Bayelsa State today simply because of the discrepancies in the name of the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governorship candidate in the state, Senator Degi-Eremienyo. This was in February 2020. Five years earlier, Minister of Finsnce, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, resigned her appointment following a scandal concerning the alleged forgery of her NYSC certificate. Ms. Adeosun had been invited by President Muhammadu Buhari to return from her base in the United Kingdom to join his government. It ended in disgrace. Instances abound of several other high profile Nigerians who have been enmeshed in forged certficate scandals. This naturally raises the question of if after 65 years of Independence, Nigeria has no institutions to block such embarrassment. Enter the State Security Service (SSS) sometimes called Department of State Services (DSS).

As far as the SSS Act is concerned, the Service is responsible for the internal security of Nigeria, VIP protection, and vetting of nominees for top positions. The SSS is also empowered to place persons of interest on watchlist- in addition to protecting the President from embarrassment (as in the cases of Salisu Buhari, Evan(s) Enwerem, Kemi Adeosun and now, Uche Nnaji) among other duties. Without mincing words, it is, safe to say that the SSS is a key institution of the Nigerian State.

In her book, Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom, Condoleezza Rice, former national security adviser and secretary of state under President George W. Bush, believes that that institutions provide the bedrock for any successful democracy. In other words, weak institutions weaken democracy. Conversely, one of the ways to weaken democracy is to first weaken her institutions. One example that readily comes to mind on how we weaken an institution is the 2016 nomination of Ibrahim Magu as the chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The EFCC Act states that a nominee for the office of the EFCC chairman shall be screened by the Senate. Even though it is the President that apoints the SSS DG, the secret police wasn’t comfortable that the president chose Magu. And the secret police didn’t hide their disapproval of Mr. President’s nominee. In a letter dated October 3, 2016, to the Clerk of the Senate, the SSS told the senators that Magu was not fit to hold the position of EFCC chairman.

The secret police listed several alleged malpractices against the EFCC boss, saying his confirmation would frustrate the anti-graft drive of the administration. The only consequence of the DSS report was that each time he faced the senators, they failed to clear him. Even at that, the President then snubbed the lawmakers and kept Magu as acting EFCC chairman for close to five years. Thus, Magu became the poster boy of the futility of security reports and Senate screening when political leaders and policy makers choose to weaken our institutions.

While it is convenient to talk about Magu, perhaps mention should be made of our lawyers, especially those who aspire to make it to the peak of the bar, called Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN). Oftentimes referred to as Learned Silk, to demonstrate the highest esteem to which they are held, these senior lawyers recently grabbed the headlines when they opposed the screening of their colleagues shortlisted for this coveted rank by the DSS. A former Nigerian Bar Association General Secretary, Olumuyiwa Akinboro, himself a SAN, described the security vetting as an attack on the independence of the legal profession. Human rights lawyer and former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu was one of the few voices that supported the DSS. Odinkalu,who expressed surprise at Akinboro’s opposition, said the rule was introduced in 2022 by then Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, and had been applied to SAN conferments in 2022, 2023 and 2024 without protest. ‘These people are short of candour. The rules requiring screening of SAN candidates by DSS were made by Olukayode Ariwoola in 2022. They governed SAN conferment in 2022, ’23 and ’24,’ noted Odinkalu.

It has since emerged from the grapevine on the outcome of the DSS screening, that some of the nominees for the award of SAN are not fit and proper. Even with this DSS report, the same tainted nominees still managed to wangle their way to the swearing-in. They are now addressed as ‘learned silks!’ Won’t be surprised if these SANs aren’t among those blaming the Senate and the DSS for ‘not doing a thorough job!’ Now, to our own Minister Uche Nnaji. He resigned. I’ve read and heard many people blame the Senate and the DSS for the lapses that made it possible to swear in Nnaji as Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology. Having set a dangerous precedent with Magu and many more that aren’t known, how are we sure the powers that be even allowed Nnaji to subject himself to the rigours of screening by the DSS?

How are we sure he, in the name of security vetting, even stepped foot within the four walls of the SSS national headquarters in Abuja? The truth remains that over time, we failed to address the question of interference with institutions. Why should some governors, for instance, have the wherewithal to demand the deployment or removal of Police Commissioners to or from their states? Crying ourselves out won’t address the problem. We have to begin to address the issues that contribute to weakening our institutions. Without that, scandals like Nnaji’s will continue to dog our political trajectory and national life. It is hightine we rolled our sleeves to make out institutions strong. This, as Condoleezza Rice rightly noted, will provide the bedrock for our successful democracy.

Sarah is a renowned personal brand strategist, advanced surgical nurse practitioner, and certified confidence coach, she is also the founder of LinkedIn Nurses. She delivered a thought-provoking session titled ‘Digital Influence: Building Consistency in Online Presence as an Entrepreneur’ at the Kingdom Entrepreneurs Summit 3.0, which took place at the Dominion Hall, MKO Abiola Way, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Addressing an audience of nurse entrepreneurs, business leaders, faith-driven professionals, and emerging innovators, Sarah emphasized that digital influence is not merely a marketing skill but a Kingdom assignment. She called on entrepreneurs to take responsibility for representing Kingdom values with creativity, discipline, and excellence in today’s digital world.

‘Influence is not about how loud your voice is; it’s about how aligned your voice is,’ Sarah said. ‘Digital spaces are not neutral, they amplify whatever you carry. So if light doesn’t show up online, darkness will dominate.’

Drawing from both Biblical and marketplace principles, she explained that the mandate for visibility and influence was first given by God in Genesis 1:28. Using examples from Daniel, Joseph, and Esther, she highlighted that visibility is stewardship and that believers are called to bring Kingdom standards into every sphere, including digital spaces.

Sarah’s presentation explored three key pillars for building influence in the online space:

Clarity of message: Understanding your voice, your values, and your unique digital assignment.

Consistency of presence: Showing up with discipline and excellence, even when immediate results are not visible.

The place of excellence in influence: ‘Excellence is a language everyone understands,’ she said. ‘When you show up consistently with a value system rooted in excellence, doubts about your brand, skill, or business begin to fade over time and that’s when authenticity starts to shine.’

She further addressed misconceptions among believers who view social media as inherently corrupt or worldly. ‘Salt has no relevance outside contamination,’ she noted. ‘If darkness dominates online, it’s not because evil is strong – it’s because light has gone silent.’

Sarah’s message underscored that believers must not withdraw from digital spaces but redeem them through purposeful content, ethical business practices, and consistent demonstration of value.

‘Your online presence is proof that the Kingdom is not retreating,’ she concluded. ‘It’s advancing, through your creativity, your content, and your consistency.’

The Kingdom Entrepreneurs Summit 3.0 brought together thought leaders and innovators passionate about merging business excellence with spiritual purpose. Sarah’s session left attendees challenged and inspired to rethink their approach to digital visibility and influence in the age of information.

About Sarah Oluwasola

Sarah Oluwasola is a Personal Brand Strategist, Advanced Surgical Nurse Practitioner, and Certified Confidence Coach. She is the Founder of LinkedIn Nurses, a nonprofit platform equipping nurses and healthcare professionals to create impact beyond the hospital walls. With a personal following of over 56,000 on LinkedIn and a growing community of more than 113,000 on the LinkedIn Nurses page, Sarah is a respected voice in healthcare leadership, professional branding, and Kingdom-based influence. She is also the Co-founder of LeveragePad Consulting, an employability and strategy firm helping professionals position for global opportunities.