Category: The Nation – Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said 18 higher institutions, including the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), are beneficiaries of the Federal Government’s N110 billion national intervention for expanding medical training facilities.

He said the initiative was meant to produce more healthcare professionals for national service.

President Tinubu spoke yesterday at the 40th convocation ceremonies of UNILORIN, the Kwara State capital.

Represented by the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Prof. Temidayo Oladiji, the president urged tertiary unions to always embrace dialogue.

‘I am confident that constructive engagement with unions will continue to prevent future industrial disruptions. I urge all staff unions to sustain the spirit of dialogue and cooperation.

‘Similarly, we are resolute in ensuring uninterrupted academic calendars across our universities. The Federal Government has paid earned allowances and part of the previously withheld salaries of academic and non-teaching staff.

‘The loan scheme for tertiary institutions’ workers has also been designed to assist them in meeting present economic challenges. It is a genuine empowerment initiative, not a burden.

‘Our decision to temporarily suspend the creation of new federal tertiary institutions stems from our conviction that we must consolidate and strengthen existing ones.

‘We prioritise quality over quantity. Adequate resources will therefore be channelled to existing institutions to enhance their capacity and impact.

‘To further deepen your impact, I am pleased to announce that the University of Ilorin has been selected to host one of the National Universities Commission’s Digital Innovation Hubs.

‘This flagship project is designed to harness the ingenuity, creativity, and entrepreneurial potential of our youths not only within this university but also across neighbouring institutions in Kwara State and beyond.

‘It will serve as a catalyst for research, digital skills development, and enterprise incubation, positioning Ilorin as a leading centre for innovation in Nigeria’s knowledge economy.

‘Our nation is undergoing profound economic reforms designed to restore stability, unlock productivity, and secure a prosperous future,’ the President said.

He added: ‘I acknowledge the temporary hardships Nigerians face today, but I assure you these challenges are short-lived.

‘The foundation we are laying will yield a stronger, more resilient, and inclusive economy. I appeal for continued understanding and patience.

‘The future of Nigeria depends on the choices we make today. My administration remains committed to pragmatic policies and programmes that will lead us to sustainable recovery and national greatness.

‘To achieve this, states and local governments must complement Federal efforts, especially now that they receive increased revenues.

‘While government remains committed to increased investment in education, I call on individuals, alumni, and the private sector to complement these efforts. Education is too important to be left solely to government.

‘The partnership of all stakeholders is vital in building a prosperous and knowledge-driven nation.’

The field of integrated photonics has the potential to enable advancements in key technologies such as Quantum Computing, Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) for self-driving cars, and foster more energy-efficient data centres supporting the training of Artificial Intelligence (AI) models. Furthermore, semiconductor electronics chips which have been the technological pillar of society, face limitations like heat generation. As demand surges for higher bandwidth and lower energy consumption, photonic chips provide an alternative solution.

‘Photonics’. ‘Integrated Photonics’. What does it all mean and why should you care?

Many individuals are likely familiar with electronic chips and the semiconductor industry with its applications in common everyday devices. The electronic semiconductor industry is one of the technological pillars of society, powering many prevalent devices, from laptops to mobile phones. These electronic chips of miniature size have an enormous impact on our day-to-day lives through the devices they help to operate.

The electronics industry has gone through several advancements since the 1940s to get it to where it is today. What if there was another similar technology, however a less mature one, that has the capability of powering a wave of frontier technologies, akin to what electronic semiconductors have done all these years?

Here enters Integrated Photonics.

Firstly, what is Photonics? When we speak of photonics, we are concerned with light.

Here, light does not only mean visible light that can be seen with a human eyebut also includes infrared and ultraviolet light and in other cases, other wavelengths on the electromagnetic spectrum.

While ‘electronics’ is the science of controlling electrons, the term ‘photonics’, analogously refers to the technology associated with controlling light. The term photonics was originally intended to depict a field that replaced functions typically achieved using electronics.

Photonics has to do with the technology, products, devices and processes that deal with the generation, transmission, transformation, detection and/or manipulation of light.

Before defining integrated photonics, it would be beneficial to understand bulk optics. Bulk optics has to do with large optical devices, which are devices for controlling and manipulating light (such as mirrors, filters, etc.). These are larger benchtop devices that you might find on the counter of a laboratory.

Compared to the larger size of devices in bulk optics, integrated photonics (also has been referred to as integrated optics) has to do with very small devices, allowing control of light on a nanoscale (one-billionth of a metre).

Integrated photonics can be defined as a branch of photonics or a technology focused on creating Photonics Integrated Circuits (PICs). PICs, also called photonic chips, consist of photonic components, which would have been much larger in size in bulk optics, but rather have been miniaturised and fabricated (meaning to manufacture) on the surface of a substrate like silicon. A substrate is a material or surface that serves as a foundation for components to be manufactured on.

Photonic components are like building blocks or pieces of a puzzle required to form functional photonic chips. Photonic components perform different functions, for instance, an example of a photonic component is a beam splitter (which splits light), and another is a grating coupler (which helps to couple, or put differently, direct light into a chip). Light entering the chip is supplied by a laser and is directed on chips within structures called waveguides, which also connect different photonics components.

Photonic components are designed to work for specific wavelengths or wavelength ranges of light. For instance, telecommunications and data communications, the largest field using PICs, make use of the 1550 nm and 1310 nm wavelengths of light.

Photonic components can be split into passive and active components. Passive components (such as multiplexers, couplers) do not require an external power source, while active components (like lasers and photodetectors) require an external power source.

Different materials can be used to create photonic chips. Popular material platforms are Silicon-on-Insulator, Silicon Nitride and Lithium Niobate.

Not only does integrated photonics significantly reduce the size of the components, it also reduces power consumption and boosts performance and reliability. Integrated photonics also provides the opportunity for large-scale production using semiconductor manufacturing techniques. These semiconductor manufacturing techniques are used in Silicon Photonics, a technology that makes use of Silicon-on-Insulator as the substrate.

Indeed, integrated photonics draws from the electronic semiconductor industry, as it can use the same scalable process to fabricate electronic chips, to make chips that work with light.

What about the difference between photonic chips and traditional electronic chips? Photonics chips are microchips that consist of photonics components arranged in a way to make a functional circuit. Photonics chips use light as the medium for transmitting data while electronic chips use electrons as the medium for transmitting data. Photonics offers benefits over electronics as light can transmit more data and generate less heat compare to electrons. Light particles, photons, do not collide with their transmitting medium the way electrons do in copper wire which results in heat.

The PICs market has been valued at about USD 14.51 billion in 2025 with growth forecasted (CAGR of 20.9% from 2025 to 2032). Market growth is driven by the rising need for quicker data transmission rates, particularly in telecommunications and data centres.

A noteworthy trait about integrated photonics is its potential to enable other technologies. Take the example of quantum computers. Successful quantum computers can be used to speed up drug discovery due to the increased computational ability they enable. Integrated photonics can be used to make scalable quantum computers compared to the use of bulk optics.

PICs can support AI model operation as PICs can reduce power consumption, and lead to higher bandwidth (more data transmission per unit time) and lower latency (less delay in transmitting data) in data centres. Data centres are energy-intensive facilities that house IT equipment, store and process data. Data centres can consume up to 50 times more energy than an office space. In recent years, AI has been responsible for about 5-15% of data centre power use and this figure could rise to 35-50% by 2030. As photonics chips help to reduce energy consumption, they can help reduce the environmental impacts of AI in future scenarios that result in more emissions from AI.

LIDAR, which supports self-driving cars, uses a mechanical system to move a light source to scan the environment. Integrated photonics can be used to make LIDAR lighter, eliminate the moving part, and push down costs with high-volume photonics manufacturing. Integrated photonics can also lead to higher sensitivity with biosensors and can be used in other applications.

Before we end up with photonics products in the hands of consumers, several steps have to happen.

Idea. First, companies and individuals have an idea of the end product they would like to create that makes use of integrated photonics, such as quantum computers or biosensors.

Design. Next, comes the design stage. These companies that have the product idea can design their photonic components in-house or outsource the design to other companies. The circuits can be designed with packaging in mind at this stage to offer protection to the chips when finally manufactured. Once the components are designed using software and the components are laid out together into a functional circuit in the right way suited for the end application, then the designs are ready to be manufactured.

Manufacture. The circuit designs are then sent off to foundries/fabs who manufacture the chips. Hundreds of chips are typically manufactured together on a thin flat material called a wafer which can be diced after completion into different chips. The chips can be fabricated in Multi-Project Wafer (MPW) runs where chips are fabricated on predetermined time schedules on the same wafer shared with other users, which tends to make fabrication more cost-effective. Chips can also be fabricated with dedicated or custom runs, which are fabrication runs that can be for one user/organisation and can be more flexible in terms of timing.

Characterisation and Packaging. Next, the chips are characterised (tested) to observe performance, and packaged to provide a scalable way to interface with your chips and offer protection.

The full cycle from idea to packaged chips can require iterations of some steps e.g. the fabricated chips do not have the intended performance thus the design is tweaked and fabricated again. The overall cycle to get to functional chips can be a lengthy process, taking up to several months to possibly even years, and can be expensive, costing several tens or hundreds of thousands and could be up to millions of pounds. Improvements along the supply chain can help to speed up the time to fully functional chips.

Will integrated photonics replace electronic semiconductors? Despite its several benefits, photonics chips are unlikely to replace electronic chips completely. Integrated photonics has its own limitations. For instance, waveguides used to connect components cannot be smaller than the wavelength of light, thus limiting how small we can shrink these photonic chips without breakthrough solutions.

Instead of replacement, we can also look at further advancements in both fields and complementary solutions that maximise the benefits of both technologies to unlock new and improved applications.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as the new Chief of Air Staff (CAS), following a major re-organisation of the nation’s military hierarchy.

Born on February 20, 1972, in Makurdi, Benue State, Air Vice Marshal Aneke hails from Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.

He began his early education at the Army Children School, New Cantonment ‘A’, Kaduna (1976-1982), and later attended Government College, Kaduna, where he obtained his West African School Certificate in 1987.

He was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, as a member of the 40th Regular Course in September 1988 and was commissioned as a Pilot Officer in the Nigerian Air Force on September 10, 1993.

Aneke is a scholar-soldier with an impressive academic portfolio.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics, a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from the University of Calabar, a Master’s degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and another Master’s in Political Economy and Developmental Studies from the University of Abuja.

He also earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the prestigious U.S. Air War College, Air University, Montgomery, Alabama.

Throughout his career, Air Vice Marshal Aneke has held several key command and staff positions, including:

Admin Officer, Aircraft Overhaul Centre, Aircraft Maintenance Depot, Ikeja

Logistics Officer, 301 Flying Training School, Kaduna

Commanding Officer, Base Services Wing, Air Maritime Group, Benin

Commander, 307 Executive Airlift Group, Abuja

Director of Safety, Nigerian Air Force Headquarters

Deputy Director of Operations, Nigerian Air Force Headquarters

Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State

He has also served with the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC), gaining valuable international peacekeeping experience.

Aneke is a highly skilled pilot with over 4,300 flying hours on various aircraft, including the Air Beetle 18, Dornier-228, Citation-500, Falcon-900, Gulfstream V/550, and Hawker-4000.

Air Vice Marshal Aneke is married to Mrs. Ngozi Enderline Aneke, and they are blessed with three sons Chukwuebuka, Ifeanyichukwu, and Uchechukwu.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said he is ready to appear as a witness in the ongoing trial of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, if subpoenaed by the court.

Wike made this known during his monthly media chat on Friday in Abuja after being asked about his inclusion on Kanu’s list of witnesses.

His comment followed a motion filed by Kanu at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday, notifying the court of his plan to open his defence on October 24, 2025.

The IPOB leader indicated intention to call 23 witnesses, including Wike, former Minister of Defence Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (retd), and former Chief of Army Staff Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd).

Wike, however, clarified that he had not requested to be named as a witness and had not received any legal notification from the court. He said he would only appear if formally summoned.

‘If you see Nnamdi Kanu, you ask him why he listed me. I did not go to him to say I want to be a witness; you are the one saying that. So, if you see him, ask him why did you list Wike as one of your witnesses?

‘You don’t become a witness by reading a newspaper. Nobody has served me process; nobody has subpoenaed me.

‘So, because I saw Wike has been listed, therefore, I begin to run helter-skelter. No, you do not do that. If I am served, if I am subpoenaed to come and give witness, or to give evidence, I must obey the court, I must appear,’ he said.

The Lagos State Government has commenced the payment of compensation to affected residents of Oworonshoki in Kosofe Local Government Area, whose houses were demolished in the ongoing urban renewal and regeneration programme in the area.

The exercise, which began on Thursday was described as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to humane and inclusive urban development.

A total of 79 beneficiaries were verified for compensation, to be paid in two batches with the first group receiving their cheques on Thursday, while the second batch were attended to on Friday at the same venue.

Speaking during the ceremony at the palace of the traditional ruler of Oworonshoki, the General Manager, Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), Olajide Animashaun, said the payment followed a series of verification, engagement, and enumeration exercises carried out in collaboration with community stakeholders.

Animashaun said the regeneration initiative became necessary due to the proliferation of illegal and dilapidated structures within Oworonshoki, many of which were built on drainage channels and waterways, posing serious environmental and safety risks.

‘Oworonshoki is one of the communities earmarked under the state’s comprehensive urban renewal and regeneration plan. Many of the affected structures were unsafe for habitation and constituted environmental hazards. However, in line with the inclusive governance policy of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, the state made a commitment to compensate verified affected residents and today, that promise is being fulfilled,’ Animashaun said.

He commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the welfare of Lagosians, noting that the compensation reflected the government’s sincerity and accountability in implementing its urban renewal policies.

Animashaun also commended the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development and the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, for their dedication and tireless efforts toward the realization of the initiative.

The event was attended by representatives of the Oworonshoki traditional council, Community Development Associations (CDAs), Community Development Council (CDC) members, civil society organizations, security agencies, and the media.

The Lagos State Government had, in recent months, cleared several illegal and substandard structures across Oworonshoki as part of efforts to reclaim right-of-way for drainage systems, improve environmental conditions, and enhance public safety.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Ajimoh Oyenuga, said: ‘The government gave us this money as compensation for the houses demolished on Precious Street, Oworonshoki. We are grateful because it shows that the government cares about our wellbeing.’

Another beneficiary, Mrs. Olaide Fatima, added: ‘My house was close to the water, and it wasn’t safe. The government promised to compensate us, and today they have done it. I really appreciate this gesture promise made, promise kept.’

Tax administrators across Africa have resolved to strengthen measures for the effective taxation of High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs), as part of broader efforts to expand the continent’s tax base and enhance domestic revenue mobilisation.

The resolution was reached at a continental workshop on Enhancing Tax Compliance Among High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) in Entebbe, Uganda, from October 21 to 23.

The event was jointly organised by the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) and the International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD).

Executive Secretary of ATAF, Ms. Mary Baine, urged African tax administrations to approach the issue of taxing the wealthy with determination and innovation.

She said: ‘According to the ATO Report, South Africa, Eswatini, and the Kingdom of Lesotho lead Africa in personal income tax collection, yet most of this revenue still comes from Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) taxpayers.’

Baine pointed out that many tax authorities across the continent continue to face challenges such as inadequate funding, weak data integration, and insufficient use of administrative data for decision-making.

She assured that ATAF remains committed to supporting its members in achieving stronger domestic revenue mobilisation (DRM) in line with the Seville Declaration.

Delivering the keynote address, the Commissioner of the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) and Vice Chair of the ATAF Council, Mr. Sam Shivute, called for firm leadership in the enforcement of tax compliance among the wealthy.

‘In line with the Compromiso de Sevilla of 2025, tax administrations must ensure the effective taxation of High-Net-Worth Individuals in their respective jurisdictions,’ Shivute stated.

He noted that strong and transparent leadership was key to building credible compliance programmes that ensure fairness and public trust.

At a high-level panel discussion on The Strategic and Political Dynamics of Taxing HNWIs, Mr. Shivute joined Ms. Baine and Mr. Henry Ngutwa, Deputy Commissioner General of the Malawi Revenue Authority, to discuss practical approaches to improving compliance frameworks, expanding access to data, and fostering collaboration among government institutions.

The discussions also examined the political complexities surrounding taxation of the wealthy and how governments can design fair and effective systems that promote equity without discouraging investment.

During the workshop, participating countries shared experiences on profiling high-net-worth taxpayers, identifying critical datasets and analytical tools, and strengthening legal and administrative mechanisms for enforcement.

The meeting concluded with a set of actionable recommendations aimed at updating the ATAF Guide on Taxing High-Net-Worth Individuals. These outcomes are expected to shape future research, policy design, and technical assistance programmes that will help African countries build effective and fair HNWI compliance systems.

The consensus among participants was clear – taxing Africa’s wealthiest individuals more effectively is not just a matter of revenue, but of fairness, sustainability, and shared prosperity.

The Forum of Social Democratic Party (SDP) State Chairmen has endorsed the expulsion of the party’s National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam and 10 others by the National Working Committee (NWC), describing their exit as victory of righteousness over evil.

The party’s NWC on through its National Publicity Secretary, Rufus Aiyenigba on Thursday at a press briefing in Abuja announced the expulsion of the National Chairman, National Youth Leader, Ogbonna Chukwuma Uchechukwu and nine others for an alleged misconduct, financial misappropriation, and abuse of office.

Reacting to the development, the Forum of State Chairmen of the party in a statement by its Chairman, Hon. Femi Olaniyi (Ferrari) in Abuja on Friday said their expulsion signals better days for the party.

Olaniyi, who is also the Chairman of the Lagos chapter, said the party is set for a new lease of life with the expulsion of Gabam and others.

The statement reads: ‘The departure of Shehu Gabam at this crucial moment marks a victory for the righteous over evil. History will not overlook the years he spent as national chairman.

‘Without reservation, Gabam has been a negative influence on the political development of the Social Democratic Party.

‘At this point, the forum of Social Democratic Party state chairmen would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the party’s National Working Committee for their role in removing Shehu Gabam and others. It is a relief to see the end of such a detrimental influence.

‘Congratulations to all our members across the country and to the party leadership for taking this bold step to protect the party from reckless behavior and mischief.’

The party’s National Publicity Secretary said the decision to expel Gabam and other chieftains was reached at a meeting of the party’s NWC, after adopting the findings of the party’s Disciplinary Committee and a subsequent White Paper that reviewed allegations against the affected officers.

The party said their explusion was the outcome of months of investigation and disciplinary proceedings.

On June 24, 2025, the party suspended the trio of – Gabam, Uchechukwu, and the National Auditor, Mr. Clarkson Nnadi – over a prima facie case of misconduct, financial impropriety, and gross abuse of office.

He further said that to ensure due process, ‘the party constituted an independent Disciplinary Committee on July 4, 2025, which conducted a two-week investigation and submitted its report on July 18, 2025.

The party spokesman explained further that the NWC subsequently reviewed and adopted the White Paper on August 15, 2025, paving the way for Thursday’s decision.

Those affected by the expulsion include Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam (former National Chairman) and Mr. Ogbonna Chukwuma Uchechukwu (former National Youth Leader). The National Auditor, Mr. Clarkson Nnadi was relieved of his duties following his voluntary resignation.

Others are: ‘Adamu Abubakar Modibbo, Abubakar Dogara, Nuraddeen Bisalla, Solsuema Osaro, Ambo Ekpeyong, Eluwa Ifeanyi Henry, Humphrey Unwukaeze, and Judith Israel Shuaibu, who were accused of disloyalty and unlawful entry into the party’s national secretariat on July 28, 2025.

Celebrated Nigerian actress Linda Ejiofor Suleiman has been nominated for Best Leading Actress at the upcoming Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) for her riveting performance in the critically acclaimed film Serpent’s Gift.

The nomination marks a major milestone in her career and a triumphant return to the big screen after years of being best known as a leading face on the iconic Nigerian soap opera, ‘Tinsel’.

Her portrayal in Serpent’s Gift has been praised by critics for its emotional depth, subtlety, and powerful screen presence.

‘Linda fully came prepared for the role, and she deserves her flowers,’ a viewer says. ‘Serpent’s Gift had a packed cast, and it was wonderful to see Linda shine through.’

Serpent’s Gift, directed by Kayode Kasum, explores themes of grief, resilience, and family legacy, with Linda playing the lead role of Ijeoma, a young widow navigating the murky line between tradition and truth.

Ejiofor Suleiman first captured hearts with her long-running role as Bimpe on Tinsel, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated television series. Her transition from TV staple to big-screen heavyweight has been years in the making, and this AMAA nomination is widely seen as a deserved recognition of her range and growth as an actress.

The 2025 AMAA Awards will be held in Lagos on November 8, celebrating outstanding achievements in African cinema.

Linda’s nomination puts her in the running alongside some of the continent’s most respected and dynamic performers.

Linda Ejiofor Suleiman is a Nigerian actress known for her breakout role in Tinsel and films like The Meeting and A Soldier’s Story. With over a decade in the industry, she has built a reputation for versatile, heartfelt performances across both television and film.

Kessington Adebutu’s Wish At the remarkable age of 90, High Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu KJW stands as a paragon of success and resilience, widely regarded as one of the most favored individuals by his creator. His life has been characterized by not only immense wealth but also exceptional health, surpassing Nigeria’s average life expectancy of just 54 years. From an early age, Adebutu exhibited the qualities of a promising young man with a future brimming with potential. Through a combination of hard work, fortuitous circumstances, and unwavering determination, he transformed his gaming business into an industry leader, earning him widespread recognition.

A hallmark of Adebutu’s business philosophy has been his commitment to integrity. Even while overseeing high-stakes gaming, he demonstrated his dedication to fairness by taking bank overdrafts to settle winnings, prioritizing his players’ satisfaction over his immediate financial concerns. This steadfast approach has allowed his premier lottery business to become one of the longest-standing gaming platforms in Nigeria, evolving over the years and expanding its reach beyond the nation’s borders.

As he approaches his milestone birthday, many are celebrating Adebutu’s legacy with a series of activities, including significant charitable donations. His wealth has been built not only on business acumen but also through a profound commitment to philanthropy. Adebutu has made substantial investments in transformative projects that have significantly impacted many lives throughout Nigeria. His initiatives have included donating buildings, funding research, promoting entrepreneurship, supporting royal institutions, and fostering economic sustainability. These endeavors have earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of Nigeria’s most noteworthy philanthropists, often without seeking public recognition for his contributions.

At 90, the title of Odole Oodua resonates deeply with Adebutu, who expresses gratitude for his life experiences. He lives fully, savoring the richness that life offers, while remaining dedicated to leaving an enduring legacy. Known for his love of vintage cars and timeless watches, he exemplifies a refined sense of style that belies his advanced age. Adebutu is a true fashion connoisseur, always presenting himself as sharp, classy, and impeccably groomed.

Throughout his life, Adebutu has harbored silent wishes, some of which he has seen come to fruition while others remain unfulfilled. He has resolved, before meeting his creator, to see his remaining aspirations realized. As he nears 90, he fervently wishes to be called ‘Father of the Governor of Ogun State’ and yearns for his youngest twin children to celebrate their wedding while he is still alive to witness it. Sources close to him indicate that he has consistently prayed for these two desires to be granted, and with a faith rooted in a lifetime of experience, he believes that, just as his creator has always listened to his prayers, these two wishes will also come to pass while he continues to thrive on this earth.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has launched the Customs Verification Management System (CVMS), a homegrown digital platform that allows Nigerians to verify the clearance and duty payment status of imported vehicles in real time.

The move is aimed at eliminating fraud, curbing the influence of middlemen, and deepening transparency across Nigeria’s vehicle import value chain.

Speaking during the official launch at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, described the initiative as a major leap in the Service’s ongoing modernisation drive, aligning with the Federal Government’s broader digital transformation agenda.

He said: ‘Today marks an important milestone as we head into our ongoing drive to modernise the operations of the Nigeria Customs Service. We are hoping to build our progress on collaboration with the private sector, consolidation of our previous gains, and the delivery of innovative solutions to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness.’

Developed in partnership with the Trade Modernisation Project (TMP) and indigenous technology firm Afripoint Consult, the CVMS introduces a unified, automated process for verifying imported vehicle records, an area long plagued by forgery, misinformation, and duty evasion.

Vehicle clearance in the country has for years relied on fragmented, manual systems that left room for document falsification and revenue leakages. Buyers and dealers often struggled to confirm the authenticity of duty payments, a situation that sometimes led to vehicle seizures or double payments. Adeniyi said the new platform directly addresses those long-standing inefficiencies.

‘For years, verification of imported vehicles relied on fragmented and outdated methods – systems that left room for misinformation, for fraud, leakage, costing the country significantly, and leading to a lot of frustration. Recognising the urgency for change, the Nigeria Customs Service, in partnership with our indigenous technical partners, has developed an innovative homegrown solution to this challenge,’ he explained.

After two months of successful trial runs, the CVMS is now fully operational and globally accessible. Nigerians can verify any imported vehicle by entering the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and paying a N15,000 verification fee using any local or international debit or credit card.

According to Adeniyi, the new verification system was built to serve both the public and Customs personnel.

‘This platform democratises access to verified information, enabling the public to make informed purchase decisions. For our officers, it eliminates inconsistencies and provides real-time validated data that improves decision-making,’ he noted.

The system, the CGC noted, provides a centralised database where every verified vehicle record can be traced and authenticated within minutes. It also standardises operations across commands, closes loopholes exploited by document forgers, and supports Customs’ enforcement and intelligence units.

Adeniyi said the launch aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s digital economy agenda and the Service’s goal of building a modern, data-driven Customs system.

‘This new system empowers the public and strengthens the integrity of our service by promoting transparency, accountability, and trust. It provides a centralised digital system where vehicle records can be traced, verified, and confirmed within minutes, improving the efficiency of our enforcement units and every relevant arm of the Customs,’ he stated.

He added that by digitising the vehicle verification process, the Service would strengthen revenue assurance, reduce disputes, and simplify compliance, ultimately improving Nigeria’s ease of doing business ranking.

He assured that with the CVMS, importers, dealers, and ordinary citizens can now verify vehicle clearance directly through the Customs portal without intermediaries or delays.

‘For the first time, Nigerians can verify the clearance and duty status of any imported vehicle directly from the Nigeria Customs Service – without intermediaries, without delays, and without doubt. This gives citizens, importers, and dealers the confidence to transact with clarity and certainty, reducing the risk of fraud, and ensuring that every vehicle purchased is backed by verifiable customs data and papers,’ the Customs boss said.

The system, according to him, also equips Customs officers with analytics and reporting tools to detect anomalies and improve enforcement.

‘Simply put, this system makes Customs work smarter, faster, and more transparent,’ the CGC concluded.