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The Akwa Ibom State Government has intensified its crackdown on illegal private schools, sealing several unlicensed institutions across the state and ordering the arrest of defaulting proprietors who attempted to defy the directive.

The Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Essien, who led the enforcement taskforce, disclosed that while many operators complied with the state’s directive to shut down, some proprietors illegally unsealed their premises and resumed academic activities.

Angered by the development, Prof. Essien ordered the arrest and detention of the offenders, who are now awaiting prosecution.

‘During the ministry’s regular monitoring exercise, it was observed that while several operators of unauthorized private schools had obeyed the directive, a few chose to defy the order and continued with academic activities,’ he said.

He warned parents and guardians across urban and rural communities against enrolling their children in unregistered institutions, insisting that the state-wide exercise would continue throughout the school year.

‘The Ministry of Education reiterates its stance on the closure of unauthorized and rogue schools. This exercise is aimed at standardising educational delivery across the state, ensuring compliance with approved standards, and ridding our educational system of substandard institutions that compromise the future of children in Akwa Ibom State,’ Prof. Essien stressed.

Sterling Bank has once again redefined the boundaries of customer-first banking in Nigeria by scrapping Account Maintenance Fees (AMF) across all personal accounts.

Just months after abolishing transfer fees on local online transactions in April 2025, the bank has dismantled yet another long-standing industry

practice, cementing its role as the nation’s leading force for transparent, fair, and customer-focused banking.

This decision cuts at the heart of a revenue model that has long cost Nigerian customers dearly. In 2024 alone, tier-1 banks raked in over ?650 billion from account maintenance and e-banking charges.

Sterling’s move rewrites Nigeria’s banking rulebook while amplifying its bold stance: customers deserve freedom from too many deductions and the right to keep more of their hard-earned money.

Abubakar Suleiman, Managing Director of Sterling Bank, explained the principle driving this bold action: ‘Every fee we remove is one less barrier between our customers and true financial freedom. This was the rationale behind eliminating transfer fees in April, and it is the same principle we uphold as we eliminate accountmaintenance fees.’

Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive for Consumer and Business Banking at Sterling Bank, reinforced this position: ‘This initiative is about building lasting relationships that fuel sustainable growth. We put transparency and customer value first, and in doing so, we are building a foundation that serves both our customers and Sterling’s future.’

As Nigeria marks another Independence Day, Sterling Bank presents this decision as a declaration of financial independence for millions of Nigerians. By freeing customers from deductions that silently erode their balances, Sterling is empowering them to keep and grow their wealth while redefining true financial freedom.

With two unprecedented moves in quick succession, the removal of transfer fees in April and now the elimination of account maintenance charges, Sterling Bank continues to challenge the status quo and champion a new era of fairness in Nigerian banking.

In the rapidly expanding world of online betting in Nigeria, countless platforms compete for user attention. Each promises something better – bigger bonuses, faster withdrawals, or a more diverse gaming experience. Amid this crowded space, 1win.ng has steadily emerged as a compelling option for Nigerian players, combining international experience with local appeal. But how does it really compare to the competition?

When placed side by side with other major bookmakers in the region, 1win Nigeria holds several distinct advantages. The platform offers generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions that are often more lucrative than those of traditional Nigerian operators. It also supports a range of popular games – from live sports betting to online casino options – all within a sleek, mobile-friendly interface.

Of course, no platform is perfect. While 1win.ng excels in areas like promotions and user experience, it currently supports fewer withdrawal methods compared to some local competitors. For users seeking maximum flexibility in cashing out their winnings, this may be a point of consideration, although it is far from a dealbreaker.

Ultimately, 1win.ng positions itself as a forward-thinking platform, blending modern features with strategic simplicity. As Nigerian users grow more discerning, platforms like 1win.ng that offer both value and ease of use are likely to shape the next phase of the country’s online betting evolution.

Unlocking the value: how 1win.ng redefines bonus strategy and user experience

Choosing a betting platform in Nigeria isn’t just about odds – it’s about value. Bonuses, usability, mobile access, and payment flexibility are what separate a solid bookmaker from a truly exceptional one. In a landscape filled with similar-looking offers, it’s essential to take a closer look at how these elements work together to enhance or hinder the player experience.

When it comes to 1win.ng, the platform doesn’t just follow industry standards – it seeks to elevate them. Whether you’re a new user lured by a welcome bonus or a seasoned bettor looking for loyalty perks, 1win.ng positions its promotions to offer not just excitement but real value. And it’s not just about bonuses: the ecosystem surrounding those offers – from games to apps and payment tools – plays a key role in maximizing their benefits.

Key strengths of 1win.ng compared to competitors

Generous welcome bonus: new users receive one of the most competitive sign-up offers in the Nigerian market, giving them a head start with boosted betting capital.

Ongoing promotions: from cashback incentives to event-based specials, 1win.ng ensures there’s always a reason to stay active.

Broad game selection: users have access to both classic sports betting and an extensive casino catalog, offering greater flexibility than most local platforms.

Sleek and intuitive interface: the website is easy to navigate, with a clean layout and responsive design that works smoothly across devices.

High-performance mobile app: both Android and iOS users benefit from a stable, fast-loading application that mirrors the desktop experience.

Instant deposits and fast payouts: while withdrawal options are slightly more limited, the ones available are reliable and quick.

Multi-currency support: players can fund their accounts in Nigerian naira and other currencies, adding to the platform’s accessibility.

Transparency of bonus terms: all promotional conditions are clearly laid out, reducing confusion and increasing trust among users.

These advantages create a streamlined experience that reduces friction and increases user confidence. For many players, especially those new to online betting, understanding exactly how a bonus works – and being able to access it without jumping through hoops – makes a huge difference.

That said, it’s also important to read the fine print and understand how rollover requirements and bonus conditions fit into your own betting style. While 1win.ng does a good job of making these terms accessible, informed decisions are always the best kind – and that’s where the platform truly empowers its users.

Looking closer: where 1win.ng falls short in a competitive betting market

The African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) has thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s tax reforms which culminated in the new tax laws, describing them as necessary for economic growth and development.

The recently-inaugurated Executive Secretary of the continental body, Ms Mary Baine, made the support known during a visit to the chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, in Abuja, on Tuesday.

A statement by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS chairman said ATAF stands by Nigeria in reforming its fiscal landscape and pledged the readiness of the body to give technical support in areas that would help in realising the gains of the reforms.

She referenced how the organization had helped Zambia to build capacity in the area of raising revenue from mining, promising to offer support to Nigeria in the same area.

According to her, ATAF is willing to leverage Nigeria’s continental and global influence to mobilise member-countries to strengthen the organisation.

‘When you look at the strategic vision of FIRS, we see the things you are doing and the way you’re changing the tax system, the kind of reforms and the time that it has taken and of course the movement forward.

‘So, we applaud you, and I wanted to say that ATAF is here to say that we stand with you, we applaud you, and we’re ready to provide whatever support that could lead to its success.

‘In terms of your strategic vision- people, technology and data, we find that this is something that is really critical for the rest of the continent and that it is an area where ATAF will be happy to support as well,’ she said.

The FIRS chairman, while welcoming the visitors, expressed confidence in the capacity of the Executive Secretary to lead ATAF to glory.

He charged Africans to look inwards for homegrown solutions to challenges, stressing that salvation cannot come from the Western world.

‘My belief has always been that solutions to Africa’s challenges can only come from Africa. There is no free lunch anywhere. I have said that I don’t believe in aids; I believe in cooperation.

‘There is a saying that when you are not on the table, you are definitely on the menu. So, Africa must be on the table and that is it. We should stop being on the menu. That is my charge to you.

‘So, the expectation from us as a continent is also to bring what we can contribute to the work, most especially in tax matters. For us, we have to evolve our own fiscal policies which is what Nigeria has done with the new tax laws.

‘Before now, we had tax laws that were colonial relics. We had the Stamp Duties Act of 1939 which was enacted when there was no internet,’ he said.

Diaspora investors in WINHOMES Estate have accused the Minister of Works, David Umahi, of inappropriately dragging President Bola Tinubu’s name into the controversy surrounding the demolition of properties to pave way for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.

The investors, in a press statement on Wednesday, faulted Umahi’s repeated references to the President in what they described as a ‘purely legal conflict’ that should be determined by the courts.

‘Repeatedly invoking the President’s name in this dispute is both inappropriate and damaging. Presenting a legal conflict as though it bears presidential endorsement erodes investor confidence, paints Nigeria as a country where executive interference trumps judicial independence, and sends the wrong signal to the international community,’ the group said.

The statement, signed by Engr. Stella Okengwu, CEO of WINHOMES Global Services, accused the Minister of misleading Nigerians and the global community on the scale of demolition, the status of court proceedings, and the level of diaspora engagement.

Umahi had claimed that only four hectares of WINHOMES land were affected, but the investors insist the estate represents over $250 million in diaspora investment covering a much larger area.

‘Families, professionals, and businesses who invested in good faith have lost properties and assets valued at far more than what the Ministry admits,’ the group stated.

They also debunked Umahi’s claim that the Federal Government had secured judgment in its favour, stressing that Suit No. FHC/L/CS/1063/25, filed before Justice Akintayo Aluko at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, remains pending.

‘No trial has commenced, no judgment has been delivered, and any suggestion otherwise is a reckless distortion,’ the statement read.

The investors further alleged that the Minister personally invited diaspora representatives to discuss the issue and promised to escalate it to the President, contrary to his public denials.

They said video evidence of the invitation exists and could be made public if necessary.

Beyond the demolition dispute, the group raised concerns over reports of a ?200 million cash payment linked to the Ministry, calling on the EFCC and DSS to launch a probe in the interest of transparency.

They also cited MTN Africa’s televised warning against diverting the coastal highway through the estate, accusing the Ministry of ignoring expert advice and due process.

WINHOMES investors announced plans to convene a world press conference to present video evidence, financial records, and expert testimony.

‘Our goal is not only to defend our investments but also to expose the wider risks of arbitrary governance to any investor considering Nigeria as a viable destination,’ Okengwu said, vowing to pursue the matter until justice is served.

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary today, Infinix joins millions of Nigerians in celebrating a nation defined by strength, resilience, and the pursuit of progress. For Infinix, Nigeria is more than a market, it is home. The brand has grown alongside the Nigerian people, drawing inspiration from their creativity, drive, and determination to break barriers. Just as Nigeria continues to rise and redefine its place on the global stage, Infinix has consistently delivered technology that empowers its people to dream big, stay connected, and achieve more.

Over the years, Infinix has achieved remarkable milestones in Nigeria, consistently earning recognition for its award-winning innovation and delivering high-performance devices that align with the lifestyle of today’s digital generation. The brand has redefined itself as a lifestyle choice for bold, ambitious Nigerians fusing high-end tech with local social culture and icons.

Infinix’s Commitment to Nigeria and Nigerians

Beyond devices, Infinix has invested heavily in initiatives that empower young Nigerians with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the digital era. From advancing education and innovation to creating platforms for talent development and global exposure, the brand has consistently demonstrated its commitment to building capacity, supporting creativity, and positioning Nigerian youth for success in an increasingly technology-driven world. These initiatives reflect Infinix’s deep commitment to not only selling technology but also investing in the people who use it, turning passion into opportunity and innovation into empowerment.

Infinix has also championed youth empowerment by supporting young creators, influencers, and tech enthusiasts, providing platforms for self-expression and growth while ensuring technology becomes a tool for opportunity. It continues to embed itself in Nigerian culture through active community engagement, from sponsoring entertainment shows to collaborating with local talents, celebrating the creativity and energy of the nation’s vibrant youth.

Looking Ahead

Speaking on the Independence Celebration, Oluwayemisi Ode, Integrated Marketing Communications and PR Manager at Infinix Nigeria, highlighted that Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary is not just a milestone for the nation but also a reminder of the shared values of resilience, creativity, and progress that continue to inspire the brand, ‘As we celebrate Nigeria’s Independence, we are reminded of what this day truly represents – the freedom to innovate and the freedom to evolve. At Infinix, this spirit is at the very heart of our mission. Our goal has always been to create devices that put cutting-edge technology into the hands of everyday Nigerians. We believe in a vibrant, youthful Nigeria, and we will continue to design technology that resonates with the dreams and aspirations of its people.’

As Nigeria celebrates this milestone, Infinix reaffirms its dedication to standing side by side with the nation on its journey of growth and transformation.

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed delight that the state has witnessed what he described as a ‘phenomenal progress’ in the last 29 years of its existence as a political entity.

Reflecting on the journey since it was created on 1 October 1996, the Governor noted that God has been kind to Ekiti, judging by the notable landmarks recorded in infrastructure, health, education, economy and social development.

The Governor made the remarks on Wednesday during a statewide broadcast aired on all electronic media channels to commemorate the 29th anniversary of Ekiti State and the 65th anniversary of Nigerian independence.

Oyebanji also used the opportunity of the broadcast to appeal to political parties, political leaders and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully as the state is already in campaign mode ahead of the parties’ primary elections later this year and the main governorship election in June 2026.

He congratulated the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the anniversary of Independence Day, expressing the profound gratitude of the Ekiti people for his support for the state, and also rallied their support for the Renewed Hope Agenda, ‘which has seen the economy on a positive trajectory never seen in almost two decades.’

Reminiscing on the journey so far, Oyebanji stressed that the memory of the landmark speaks to the dream of Ekiti State’s founding fathers, the resilience of forebears, the sweat of its traditional rulers and the steely determination of the generations before, which eventually became a reality.

The Governor used the opportunity of the broadcast to pay tribute to Ekiti patriots and distinguished citizens who were part of the vanguard for the creation of the state, adding that while the state might not have reached its destination yet, considerable progress has been made on all fronts of development.

He said, ‘I pay homage to every man and woman who was part of the Movement for the Creation of our State. I thank all the leaders before me who have had the privilege to lead Ekiti at one time or the other. Many thanks to our dogged civil and public servants for staying the course; just as I commend the resilience of our people for keeping the dream.

‘With our collective effort, Ekiti has witnessed phenomenal progress in the last 29 years of her creation. We may not roll out the drum for elaborate celebrations, but we have every cause to thank God in the life of our dear State. My message to you today, as we celebrate the 29th anniversary of our State, is that we thankfully reflect on the journey so far.

‘As someone who had the rare privilege of being part of the Creation Movement, I have a very big reason to acknowledge that God has been kind to us in Ekiti. When we look back in time, it is undeniably clear that we have made some major landmarks in infrastructure, health, education, economy and social development. We may not have reached our destination, but we have recorded considerable mileage.’

Appealing for a peaceful electoral process ahead of the 2026 governorship poll in the state, the Governor added, ‘Ekiti kete, another governorship electoral cycle is here already and interested persons and parties are already in campaign mood. This is how it should be in a democracy.

‘I would like to reiterate my earlier appeal to all political stakeholders in our State to remain peaceful as we enter into the electoral season. The political environment must remain peaceful, our contest must be for ideas and not for violence.’

As his administration marks three years in office on 16 October, the Governor expressed delight at the various achievements recorded across the six-pillar development agenda, which he said has touched every community in Ekiti, adding that he is proud of the fact that ‘Ekiti has sustainably and continuously been on a positive trajectory since we have been in the saddle.’

The Governor disclosed that he would appear before the State House of Assembly to give the full account of his stewardship on 16 October as required by law, calling on Ekiti citizens at home and abroad for their continued support as the journey to shared prosperity continues.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria has become a net exporter, recording a trade surplus for five consecutive quarters.

In his nationwide broadcast to mark the country’s 65th independence anniversary on Wednesday, Tinubu said the shift reflects a fundamental change in the economy, with Nigeria now selling more to the global market than it imports.

He explained that this development is strengthening the naira, creating jobs locally, and signalling the diversification of the economy away from oil dependence.

According to the president, manufactured goods exported from Nigeria have increased significantly, while non-oil exports now account for nearly half of the country’s total trade earnings.

He described the trend as evidence that the reforms undertaken by his administration are beginning to yield tangible results.

He said, ‘We are now a Net Exporter: Nigeria has recorded a trade surplus for five consecutive quarters. We are now selling more to the world than we are buying, a fundamental shift that strengthens our currency and creates jobs at home.

‘Nigeria’s trade surplus increased by 44.3% in Q2 2025 to ?7.46 trillion ($4.74 billion), the largest in about three years. Goods manufactured in Nigeria and exported jumped by 173%.

‘Non-oil exports, as a component of our export trade, now represent 48 per cent, compared to oil exports, which account for 52 per cent. This signals that we are diversifying our economy and foreign exchange sources outside oil and gas.’

Tinubu also urged Nigerians to embrace locally made products as part of efforts to drive national growth and reduce dependence on foreign goods.

The president explained that while the federal government is implementing policies to stabilise the economy and improve infrastructure, citizens also have a responsibility to support nation-building through choices that favour local production.

He noted that placing Nigeria first in everyday consumption decisions would help accelerate growth and secure a sustainable future.

‘Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us farm our land and build factories to process our produce. Let us patronise ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ goods. I say Nigeria first. Let us pay our taxes.’

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has announced the suspension of its nationwide strike against the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, stressing that the action was taken strictly out of respect for the Federal Government and its institutions involved in the conciliation process.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, PENGASSAN President, Comrade Festus Osifo, made it clear that the union is dissatisfied with the terms of the agreement brokered between the parties, particularly as it failed to address their key demand: the immediate reinstatement of over 800 Nigerian workers allegedly sacked by the refinery.

He warned that the union would not hesitate to resume the suspended strike without notice if the Dangote management defaults on its commitments.

‘We are not happy with the terms of the agreement because it did not capture our main demand of recalling the 800 sacked Nigerians. But out of respect for government institutions, for the National Security Adviser, the DSS, the Chief Reconciliator of the Federation, and ministers who worked tirelessly into the early hours of the morning to mediate, we decided to suspend the action. However, let me be clear: if Dangote fails to keep its part, we will resume immediately, without any warning,’ Osifo declared.

The union leader expressed deep reservations about the sincerity of the refinery management, saying PENGASSAN has ‘mutual suspicion’ that Dangote will attempt to renege on the deal. ‘We know that Dangote does not play by the rules or respect agreements. We believe and suspect that some of the promises extracted during the negotiations will not be honoured. But because we respect due process and institutions of government, we will give them the benefit of the doubt. Yet, any breach will be met with severe and immediate response,’ he said.

Responding to widespread allegations that the union’s insistence on reinstating the 800 sacked workers was driven by a desire to secure check-off dues, Osifo dismissed the claims as ‘laughable and mischievous.’ According to him, the salaries of the affected workers are meagre compared to the earnings of PENGASSAN members in other multinational oil companies, making such accusations baseless.

‘So we clearly ask, is it because of check-off dues that PENGASSAN went on strike? The salaries being paid to these 800 members, if you add them all together, are less than what 20 of our members earn in companies like Chevron, TotalEnergies, or ExxonMobil. Their check-off dues are not even up to the check-off dues of our least-paid members elsewhere. So why should we be chasing this because of dues? It is actually about the freedom of association and the welfare of our members, because when we enter organisations, we improve conditions of service, and that is why workers subscribe to us,’ he explained.

Osifo further argued that PENGASSAN has a long record of defending workers’ rights without stifling the companies where its members operate, citing the example of Shell, TotalEnergies, and ExxonMobil which have thrived despite having thousands of PENGASSAN members. ‘At one time, Shell had over 10,000 of our members, and they invested more than $200 billion in Nigeria. Did we kill Shell? Instead, we assisted Shell, TotalEnergies, and ExxonMobil to grow. We are not out to kill Dangote Refinery, which has barely invested $20 billion. That narrative is false,’ he said.

He stressed that the oil and gas workforce has carried the burden of Nigeria’s economy for decades, providing over 90 per cent of the nation’s foreign exchange earnings. ‘We know who we are and what we stand for. We are patriots who love this country more than any single individual, and that is why, despite our reservations, we chose to suspend this strike in deference to government efforts,’ Osifo maintained.

While thanking the government officials and agencies that intervened in the dispute, he reiterated PENGASSAN’s vigilance. ‘We will be monitoring closely. Any slip, any breach, any part of this agreement that is not kept, we will not issue further notice. We will not give any warning. We will resume the suspended industrial action immediately. That is our resolution,’ he warned.

Osifo concluded by affirming that PENGASSAN’s struggle is not against progress but against injustice, and that the union will remain steadfast in defending the rights and welfare of its members, no matter whose interest is at stake.

In the spirit of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebrations, the Crude Oil Refineries Owners Association of Nigeria (CORAN) has warned that the Nigerian petroleum industry may suffer imminent collapse if steps are not taken to stop the disruptions in the sector by key stakeholders.

The association issued a strong appeal to the Federal Government to urgently intervene in addressing the rising disputes within the petroleum sector, warning that prolonged conflicts could destabilise Nigeria’s energy security, undermine private refinery operations, and disrupt the well-being of millions of citizens.

According to CORAN, the ongoing disagreements between some of the sector’s most influential players-including the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), and the Dangote Refinery-pose an immediate risk to the stability of the petroleum industry.

The association believes that without prompt and decisive government action, the disputes will continue to threaten private refinery operations and widen the country’s dependence on imported petroleum products.

In its submission, CORAN stressed that no union or group of individuals should be allowed to unilaterally block the supply of crude oil or gas to any refinery in violation of existing agreements. Such actions, it noted, undermine not only contractual obligations but also the broader national interest.

For this reason, CORAN called on the Federal Government to restore sanity and fairness by ensuring that contractual rights are respected and disputes are resolved through transparent dialogue and fair processes.

The association also recommended that the government should convene all stakeholders in the oil and gas refining value chain to deliberate on a binding framework that protects supply contracts, encourages investment, and secures the national economy from recurring disruptions.

CORAN emphasised that the survival of private refineries is indispensable to achieving energy self-sufficiency, safeguarding foreign exchange reserves, and protecting household welfare.

CORAN highlighted the significant contributions of private refineries to Nigeria’s economy. Its members, made up of locally owned refining businesses, have invested heavily-often with limited access to funding-in projects that aim to provide the country with a sustainable energy future. These refineries help reduce reliance on imported petroleum products, saving the government scarce foreign exchange and creating opportunities for local employment and industrial development.

Despite these efforts, CORAN acknowledged that private refiners continue to face enormous challenges. Access to crude oil feedstock remains one of the most pressing obstacles, often complicated by regulatory delays and supply chain disruptions.

Additionally, the business environment is hampered by what the association described as the disruptive actions of vested interests that benefit from the continuation of import dependence. Such actors, CORAN noted, are resistant to change and are using disputes within the industry as leverage to undermine the growth of the local refining sector.

The association maintained that Nigeria cannot afford to have its energy system held hostage by conflicts that drag on without resolution.

It argued that the resilience of the nation’s refining industry is critical to economic health, job creation, and the stability of every Nigerian household that relies on affordable energy.

By protecting private refinery operators and ensuring uninterrupted access to crude and gas supply, the government would be reinforcing one of the country’s most strategic pillars of economic security.

CORAN further stressed that the Federal Government must act decisively, impartially, and without delay. It insisted that investigating all claims and counterclaims impartially is the only way to foster mutual trust and long-term peace within the petroleum industry.

Moreover, the association argued that a government-led resolution process would not only prevent energy instability but also send a clear signal to investors that Nigeria is serious about building a sustainable and predictable petroleum sector with sufficiency, and the welfare of its citizens taken into account.