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There are growing indications that local investors who previously piled into dollar assets are now trimming their holdings as Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) renew interest in Nigeria’s financial markets.

Analysts attribute this shift to tighter monetary policy, naira appreciation, and the lure of high-yield opportunities in naira-denominated assets.

Nigeria’s aggressive interest-rate stance has driven yields to record highs, making short-term government instruments such as Open Market Operations (OMO) bills and Treasury Bills highly attractive. FPIs are capitalising on double-digit returns amid improving macroeconomic indicators and growing confidence in the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) policy direction.

In the first half of 2025, FPIs injected about US$8.05 billion into Nigeria’s financial markets, largely drawn to fixed-income securities. On the equities side, FPIs transacted around N699.89 billion in March alone – the highest monthly volume recorded – representing 62.74 percent of total market turnover on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX).

The naira has also strengthened remarkably, appreciating to about N1,444.42 per US$1, its highest level in ten months. This improvement reflects better foreign exchange liquidity and sustained interventions by the CBN. Nigeria’s external reserves have similarly climbed to over US$43 billion as of late October 2025, providing further market stability.

Johnson Chukwu, Managing Director of Cowry Asset Management Limited, said the return of FPIs reflects renewed confidence in Nigeria’s monetary reforms. ‘Foreign investors are responding to policy consistency and attractive yields. The tightening stance of the CBN has made naira assets far more competitive relative to dollar holdings,’ he explained.

Echoing this view, Tilewa Adebajo, CEO of CFG Advisory, noted that the naira’s rebound has been a major driver of portfolio reallocation. ‘The currency has stabilised due to improved forex supply and market reforms. Many local investors are now taking advantage of the strong naira and high interest rates to move back into domestic instruments,’ he said.

While FPIs are boosting market liquidity and sentiment through short-term inflows, analysts caution that long-term investment remains constrained by structural bottlenecks such as weak infrastructure, policy uncertainty, and regulatory inconsistencies.

Sustaining investor confidence, they agree, will require deeper reforms to attract more stable, growth-oriented capital into the economy.

CHAMS Holding Company Plc has announced strong financial and operational performance for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, underscoring the strength of its diversified portfolio and innovation-driven growth strategy.

Despite a challenging macroeconomic environment, the Group delivered another quarter of steady growth and profitability. Revenue hit N13.60 billion, up 4 percent from N13.14 billion in 2024, Profit After Tax stood at N500.7 million, Total Assets: N20.60 billion and Shareholders’ Funds rose to N10.56 billion, an increment of six percent, Year-on-Year.

While finance costs rose to N626 million, the Group is actively implementing strategies to reduce borrowing expenses and strengthen its financial position.

Chams HoldCo also achieved a 100 percent subscription rate in its recently concluded N3.6 billion private placement, reflecting strong investor confidence in its vision and long-term strategy.

Speaking on the outlook for the year, Olaniyan said:’We are optimistic about sustaining our growth momentum by expanding our fintech ecosystem through strategic partnerships and new products, driving digital transformation, and strengthening governance and sustainability practices.’

Meanwhile, a Statement from the Company says its subsidiaries have recorded strategic milestones. ChamsAccess Limited achieved a major milestone with its PenCentral platform, processing over N150 billion in pension remittances for more than 1,500 corporate entities. The launch of the National Pension Automation Project in Sierra Leone further demonstrates ChamsAccess’s leadership in digital identity and financial inclusion across West Africa.

CardCentre deepened its partnership with MTN Nigeria to produce biodegradable SIM cards, a first-of-its-kind sustainability initiative in Nigeria. The project reinforces Chams HoldCo’s dedication to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and sustainable innovation. ChamsSwitch Limited, under the new leadership by Mr. Mudiaga Umukoro (formerly of Zone), ChamsSwitch is undergoing a strategic transformation focused on payment interoperability, merchant solutions, and digital banking infrastructure. This positions the subsidiary for accelerated growth within Nigeria’s dynamic fintech landscape.

These achievements highlight Chams HoldCo’s resilience, innovation culture, and commitment. The Group continues to set new benchmarks in operational excellence and sustainable business performance, according to the statement.

The designation of Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ on religious tolerance by the government of the United States of America could come with a series of economic and diplomatic sanctions which could also engineer international isolations, investigations by the Nigerian Tribune have confirmed.

President of the United States, Donald Trump, had on Friday, announced his decision to classify Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ on account of alleged genocide against Christians as he claimed that 3,100 Christians have been killed in the country.

Information available on the website of the US State Department, www.state.gov, indicated that the punishment due to countries so designated includes: diplomatic sanctions and public condemnation by the United States government, economic restrictions, including reductions or limitations on security aid and development assistance, opposition to international loans from the IMF and others as well as international isolation and other potential economic measures.

According to findings, specific economic sanctions that could be imposed by the US on such countries include limiting or withholding economic assistance; Imposing trade restrictions or sanctions; restricting export licenses and opposing international loans or assistance from institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Other potential punishment the country could suffer include travel restrictions, which could mean that citizens of the country may be made to face travel restrictions to the US or other countries, even as the country stands to withstand damage to its credibility and integrity at the international stage.

Reports on the State Department website indicated that the CPC came into force through the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA Act) of 1998, which requires the President to ‘review the status of religious freedom in every country in the world and designate each country the government of which has engaged in or tolerated ‘particularly severe violations of religious freedom’ as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC).’

The Act defines particularly severe violations as ‘systematic, ongoing, egregious violations of religious freedom,’ including violations such as: (1) torture; (2) prolonged detention without charges; (3) forced disappearance; or (4) other flagrant denial of life, liberty, or security of persons.’

An adjunct to that is the Wolf Act, 2016, which requires the President to ‘designate each country that engaged in or tolerated severe violations of religious freedom during the previous year, but does not meet all the criteria for being designated as a CPC to a ‘Special Watch List’ (SWL).’

The same Wolf Act also allows the President of the United States to designate some organisations as ‘Entities of Particular Concern,’ a classification that encompasses non-state actors who are seen to have engaged in religious freedom violations. The Act defines non-state actors in this category to mean ‘a non-sovereign entity that (A) exercises significant political power and territorial control; (B) is outside the control of a sovereign government; and (C) often employs violence in pursuit of its objectives.’

Available records indicated that the last time the US government designated countries as CPC was December 29, 2023, and the countries on the list as of that date include Burma, People’s Republic of China, Cuba, Eritrea, Iran, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan.

In the same vein, the US had designated some countries on the Special Watch List on December 29, 2023. These countries include Algeria, Azerbaijan, the Central African Republic, Comoros, and Vietnam.

Also in line with Wolf Act, 2016, the United States has designated some non-state actors as ‘Entities of Particular Concern’ on December 29, 2023 and these include al Qa’ida affiliate Al-Shabaab, Boko Haram, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the Houthis, ISIS-Sahel (formerly known as ISIS-Greater Sahara), ISIS-West Africa, al Qa’ida affiliate Jamaat Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin, and the Taliban.

It was also confirmed that despite the classification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as one of the Countries of Particular Concern, the US still maintains what was described as a complex relationship with the government of Saudi Arabia.

The relationship is said to be driven by strategic interests in energy security, with Saudi Arabia being a key player in the oil sector and regional stability in the Middle East.

It was also gathered that classification of a territory as Country of Particular Concern could enable the United States to leverage diplomatic measures to promote reforms in religious harmony, counterterrorism, and human rights.

Despite the declaration as a Country of Particular Concern, the United States may utilise diplomacy, sanctions and economic incentives to encourage improvements in human rights and religious freedom in such territories, reports stated.

THE African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is revolutionizing Africa’s economic landscape by creating a single market with a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion, uniting 54 countries and 1.4 billion people. This groundbreaking agreement aims to boost intra-African trade, attract investment, and foster economic growth by reducing tariffs and harmonizing regulations. With its vast potential, the AfCFTA is poised to unlock new opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors across the continent.

Speaking at a Business Forum on ‘Mobilising Africa’s Private Sector for AfCFTA towards Africa’s Economic Development Amid Global Uncertainty’, held recently in Lagos, Chairman of the NEPAD Business Group Nigeria (NBGN), Bashorun Bashiru Randle, said Nigeria and the rest of Africa must embrace cooperation and innovation to achieve inclusive growth.

Randle said the NEPAD Business Group stands at the intersection of policy and enterprise, championing the private sector as the engine of Africa’s growth and integration.

‘This forum reflects the urgency and opportunity for us as a continent to build resilience, deepen collaboration, and harness the full potential of AfCFTA for sustainable development,’ he said.

‘AfCFTA represents one of the most ambitious undertakings in Africa’s economic history-creating a single market of over 1.4 billion people with a combined GDP of more than $3.4 trillion.’

Also speaking at the event, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Kaosarat Ambrose, described AfCFTA as a strategic platform for expanding intra-African trade and strengthening regional value chains.

Sanwo-Olu, however, stressed that the success of AfCFTA depends largely on private sector participation.

‘Governments can negotiate treaties, but businesses must produce, export, and invest,’ he said. ‘That belief in cross-border trade must persist despite global headwinds such as currency volatility, supply chain disruptions, and regional instability.’

He noted that technology is reshaping commerce through digital trade, e-commerce, and fintech, adding that Africa must embrace innovation to simplify cross-border transactions.

‘Lagos is already leading in this space as Nigeria’s tech capital-a model that can inspire other regions,’ he added. ‘This is a time for collaboration, not competition; for unity, not isolation.’

Similarly, President of the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Dr. Abdulrashid Ibrahim Usman Yerima, emphasised that industrialisation, entrepreneurship, and innovation remain the pillars of economic transformation.

‘As private sector leaders-the employers, innovators, and value chain creators-we bear the responsibility to lead Africa from aspiration to achievement,’ Yerima stated. ‘No SME can scale alone in a continental market of 1.4 billion people. Collective strength and partnerships are vital to drive productivity and inclusion.’

He urged governments and investors to forge partnerships that accelerate industrial capacity, build trust, and empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to compete globally.

‘Though the world may be uncertain, Africa’s future is not,’ Yerima said. ‘It is bright because we are building it together.’

On his part, President of the African Business Roundtable, Mr. Samuel Dossou-Aworet, called for increased inflow of international capital to support Africa’s development, noting that domestic resource mobilisation alone is insufficient.

‘Africa must scale up its infrastructure to enhance production and competitiveness,’ Dossou-Aworet said. ‘Access to capital, financial inclusion, and innovative financing mechanisms are key to unlocking trade and investment opportunities.’

He also urged African countries to pursue market access and trade facilitation measures that enable locally produced goods to penetrate global markets.

The forum, hosted by the NEPAD Business Group Nigeria, brought together policymakers, business leaders, and development experts.

UNIVERSAL Insurance Plc has announced an impressive financial performance for the 2024 financial year, with significant growth across key performance indicators despite Nigeria’s challenging economic environment.

At the company’s 55th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lagos, the Chairman, Mr. Jasper Nduagwuike, disclosed that Universal Insurance achieved a 64.5 percent increase in gross written premium, rising to ?15.3 billion in 2024 from ?9.3 billion recorded in 2023.

He said the strong growth reflects rising consumer confidence in the company’s products and services, as well as management’s commitment to prudent underwriting and customer-focused innovation.

‘This performance is evidence that our products are gaining traction and that our customers trust the quality of our service,’ Nduagwuike stated.

Insurance revenue also surged by 72 percent, reaching ?13.8 billion in 2024, compared to ?8.02 billion reported in the previous year.

The company attributed this to its ability to combine innovation with sound risk management practices while maintaining profitability.

Profit before tax soared by 291.26 percent to ?2.01 billion from ?526.7 million in 2023, while the insurance service result grew to ?2.79 billion, up from ?1.54 billion in the prior year.

Reflecting the company’s strengthened financial position, total assets expanded to ?20.3 billion in 2024, up from ?15.7 billion in 2023.

Similarly, shareholders’ funds increased to ?13.2 billion from ?10.4 billion, demonstrating a more resilient balance sheet and improved capitalization.

Nduagwuike noted that these achievements underscore Universal Insurance’s steady recovery trajectory and ability to deliver value to stakeholders even in a volatile macroeconomic environment.

Looking ahead, the company’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Jeff Duru, expressed optimism about the firm’s prospects, despite ongoing market headwinds such as inflation, high interest rates, and exchange rate volatility.

He identified operational efficiency, risk management, and investment strategy as the company’s three key strategic focus areas for 2025, noting that Universal Insurance is determined to consolidate its performance through innovation and disciplined execution.

‘Despite prevailing challenges, we remain optimistic and prepared to navigate uncertainties. In 2025, we will streamline processes through automation, digitization, and lean practices to reduce costs and enhance agility,’ Duru said.

According to him, Universal Insurance plans to strengthen its risk management framework to proactively identify, assess, and mitigate emerging risks across its operations.

This, he said, will safeguard the company’s assets, protect shareholder value, and maintain long-term financial stability.

On investment strategy, Duru revealed that the company would pursue a prudent and diversified portfolio approach, balancing risk and return through strategic asset allocation.

‘Our investment strategy will be long-term and value-driven. We will continue to pursue sustainable growth by balancing capital preservation with portfolio expansion,’ he explained. ‘

He added that the company’s digital transformation drive will remain central to its operational strategy in 2025, aimed at improving customer experience, streamlining claims processing, and enhancing data analytics for better decision-making.

Both executives reiterated the company’s commitment to strengthening shareholder value, improving client satisfaction, and contributing to the overall growth of Nigeria’s insurance industry.

They emphasized that the company’s resilience and strong governance practices have positioned it to take advantage of emerging opportunities under the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025, which seeks to modernize insurance operations, promote financial inclusion, and strengthen regulatory compliance.

Industry analysts have noted that Universal Insurance’s 2024 results reflect a broader trend of recovery and innovation in Nigeria’s insurance sector, as firms increasingly adopt digital solutions, diversify risk portfolios, and enhance their capital bases.

With a stronger balance sheet, growing revenue base, and renewed strategic focus, Universal Insurance appears well-positioned to sustain its growth momentum and strengthen its role as a key player in the non-life insurance segment.

‘Our focus remains clear-to build a modern, customer-centric insurance institution that delivers sustainable value to all stakeholders. We are confident that the strategic initiatives we are implementing today will continue to yield positive results in the years ahead,’ Dr. Duru affirmed.

Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his bold economic reforms, visionary policies, and developmental programs, which he said are reshaping governance and national development.

Governor Okpebholo noted that the Federal Government’s support to States has provided resources for meaningful developmental projects. He referenced in the ongoing construction of Flyover bridges and other infrastructural works in Edo State.

He said: ‘These projects are made possible through the support of President Tinubu. I urge all Edo people to continue supporting the President, whose reforms, though tough, are essential for Nigeria’s progress.’

Governor Okpebholo made this known in Benin City during the City Boy Movement program, an empowerment initiative aimed at supporting over 200 Edo youths.

Governor at the event noted that his administration is delivering genuine progress and development to the three senatorial districts of the State.

‘The previous government claimed to have transformed education in Edo State, but our findings show otherwise. We are changing the narrative. Through our ongoing reforms, school enrollment across the state is increasing, and we are upgrading facilities and learning processes so that Edo children can compete with their peers globally,’ he noted.

Edo state deputy governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, called on Edo youths to mobilize under the City Boy Movement to ensure that President Tinubu secures the highest number of votes in the South-South region in the next election.

In his remarks, the Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, lauded Governor Okpebholo for his developmental strides, describing the event as a celebration of peace and progress in Edo state.

Olawande said: ‘The progress we see today began about a year ago with the emergence of a dynamic governor committed to development.’

He added: ‘Nigeria’s youths are its greatest asset. Through various platforms and skill development programmes, this administration ensures young people are empowered to build better futures for themselves and the nation.’

Edo State Commissioner for Education and State Director of the City Boy Movement, Paddy Iyamu, praised President Tinubu for introducing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which he said has ensured that no Edo child is forced out of school due to financial constraints.

He also highlighted the achievements of Governor Okpebholo’s administration within one year, including construction of 68 new schools across the State; sponsorship of five Edo students to study in China for three years; provision of N1 billion in student bursaries; empowerment programs for market women and small businesses, among others.

Iyamu stated: ‘Governor Okpebholo has delivered impressive results in infrastructure, education, and job creation all within a short time.’

The Director-General of the City Boy Movement, Francis Oluwatosin, commended Governor Okpebholo for his visionary and silent leadership style, noting significant progress in education, healthcare, security, and infrastructure.

He also praised President Tinubu’s ongoing economic reforms, describing them as bold steps toward national restructuring and sustainable growth.

Oluwatosin affirmed: ‘The City Boy Movement is the largest socio-political youth platform in Africa, mobilizing 10 million votes for President Tinubu in 2027 from all 36 states of the federation.’

The Presidency has hinted of a possible meeting between President Bola Tinubu and the United States President, Donald Trump, on the raging controversy over the alleged killing of Christians in Nigeria.

The Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Mr Daniel Bwala, dropped the hint on Sunday barely 24 hours after Tinubu himself personally opposed the tagging of Nigeria as a ‘country of particular concern’ by Trump.

Taking to his X handle, @BwalaDaniel, the presidential aide said both leaders could either meet at the State House or the White House to have an elaborate discussion on whether attacks by terrorists and other criminal elements in Nigeria were targeted at Christians only.

He also acknowledged the United States’ role in supporting Nigeria’s anti-terror war, noting that the two leaders shared a common interest in seeing to the end of such violent killings and destruction across the globe.

The presidential aide wrote, ‘Both President @officialABAT and President @realDonaldTrump have shared interest in the fight against insurgency and all forms of terrorism against humanity.

‘President Trump has assisted Nigeria a lot by authorising the sale of arms to Nigeria and President Tinubu has adequately utilised the opportunity in the fight against terrorism for which we have massive results to show for it.

‘As for the differences as to whether terrorists in Nigeria target only Christians or in fact all faiths and no faiths, the differences, if they exist, would be discussed and resolved by the two leaders when they meet in the coming days, either in the State House or White House.’

Earlier on Saturday, Tinubu had disagreed with the characterisation of Nigeria as a religiously intolerant country, adding that all faiths were guaranteed the freedoms to practice under its constitution.

‘Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty’, Tinubu had stated in a tweet.

He said further, ‘Since 2023, our administration has maintained an open and active engagement with Christian and Muslim leaders alike and continues to address security challenges which affect citizens across faiths and regions.

‘The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality, nor does it take into consideration the consistent and sincere efforts of the government to safeguard freedom of religion and beliefs for all Nigerians.

‘Religious freedom and tolerance have been a core tenet of our collective identity and shall always remain so. Nigeria opposes religious persecution and does not encourage it.

‘Nigeria is a country with constitutional guarantees to protect citizens of all faiths.

‘Our administration is committed to working with the United States government and the international community to deepen understanding and cooperation on protection of communities of all faiths.’

US Should assist with technology to combat insecurity -KwanKwaso

Meanwhile, a concerned Nigerian, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, known as R.M.K., has urged the United States government to assist Nigeria with modern technology and intelligence-sharing mechanisms to tackle insecurity, rather than making pronouncements that could deepen divisions or undermine the country’s sovereignty.

He made the appeal while reacting to the recent statement by Trump, which designated Nigeria as a ‘country of particular concern.’

In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, Kwakwanso said the designation was unnecessary and potentially misleading, as Nigeria’s security challenges are complex, non-religious and multi-dimensional, affecting people of all faiths and ethnicities.

‘I have noted with increasing concern the heightened pronouncements on Nigeria by President Donald Trump. This follows his designation of Nigeria as a ‘country of particular concern.”

‘It is important to emphasise that our country is a sovereign nation whose people face different threats from outlaws across the country. The insecurity we face does not distinguish based on religious, ethnic, or political beliefs,’ he said.

Martin Onovo calls for decisive action against insecurity

Also, Chief Martin Onovo, former presidential candidate of the National Conscience Party (NCP), has urged the Federal Government to deploy full national capacity to end insecurity in the country.

Onovo told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that decisive action and coordinated efforts were critical to restoring lasting peace across affected parts of the country.

The activist and head of policy positions at the Movement for Fundamental Change was reacting to the recent designation of Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ by the U.S. over alleged killings of people of a particular faith.

Onovo said that the government should focus on comprehensive security response rather than prolonged debates over the characterisation of the violence.

He said: ‘There should be political will to crush the insurgency.

‘The facts are clear that ordinary Nigerians die of terrorist attacks, let us forget about creed or religion. Why should there be killings at all?

‘There should not be killings. We cannot deny that the terrorists kill Muslims also. Why should anybody be killed?

‘The government should act against the insurgents with full national capacity. Everything is not military.’

Engage US govt diplomatically, SAN tells Tinubu

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, Wahab Shittu, has called on President Bola Tinubu to engage with the United States over threat of a military takeover by President Donald Trump.

Trump had threatened to carry out attacks in Nigeria in response to purported anti-Christian violence, saying he instructed the recently renamed Department of War to ‘prepare for possible action’.

In a social media post on Saturday, Trump said the United States would immediately cut off all assistance to the African country ‘if the Nigerian government continues to allow the killing of Christians’.

Reacting in a press conference, the senior lawyer maintained that Nigeria needs to initiate peace overtures with the United States.

He wants President Tinubu to personally lead the delegation that involves all heads of government to avert what he described as the outbreak of a United States war against Nigeria.

Patriotic Elders warn US against military action

Also, the National Patriotic Elders for Peace and Harmony in Nigeria (NPEPHN) has cautioned the United States government against any attempt to launch military action against Nigeria over alleged killings of Christians, describing such a move as unjustifiable and baseless.

In a statement issued after its emergency meeting held in Kano on Sunday, the group, through its National President, Dr Bature AbdulAziz, said the alleged ‘massacre of Christians’ in Nigeria was a false and misleading narrative not supported by verified evidence.

AbdulAziz argued that terror attacks in Nigeria have affected both Muslims and Christians.

Nigeria’s security crisis driven by cross-border terrorists, not religious conflict -Security expert

However, a prominent Nigerian security expert, Ambassador Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has called on United States President, Donald Trump to reevaluate his recent redesignation of Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern,’ emphasising that the country’s security crisis is driven by cross-border terrorist networks rather than internal religious conflict.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, Ambassador Mumuni urged President Trump and his team to adopt a more nuanced and informed approach, focusing on the underlying causes of violence in the region.

According to Mumuni, Nigeria’s security challenges stem largely from terrorist groups operating across borders, not from any one religious community.

He stressed that the term ‘Fulani bandits’ fails to capture the complexity of these entities, which he described as cross-border criminal networks exploiting Nigeria’s porous borders to move arms and personnel, leading to heightened terror and civil instability.

US threat of war ominous, Sule Lamido

.Wants Tinubu to convene meeting of past Nigerian leaders

On his part, a former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sule Lamido, on Sunday described the ‘threat of war’ on the country by United States President Trump over the alleged genocide in Nigeria as ominous, urging President Tinubu to convene a meeting of Nigerian past leaders to fully discuss the matter.

Lamido warned in a statement sent to the Nigerian Tribune on Sunday that the repercussions of such action being contemplated by Trump are too grave to be imagined.

He called on all Nigerian leaders to set aside whatever personal differences with President Tinubu and come up with pragmatic ways of averting the ‘looming danger.’

He advocated a ‘quiet diplomacy’ led by former presidents and heads of state without the prying eyes of the media, to resolve whatever is the concern of the United States.

The Bayelsa State governor, Senator Douye Diri, has submitted that his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) is in the interest of the state.

Diri will make a formal declaration alongside members of the Executive Council, members of the State House of Assembly, two serving senators and others today in Yenagoa.

The governor was quoted in a statement made available to the newsmen by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Dan Alabra overnor Diri, that someone had to take the decision and that he took it on behalf of Bayelsans.

He made this known during the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa.

It was the first time he spoke publicly on the issue after he resigned from the PDP on October 15, 2025.

Governor Diri explained that some persons might not understand his decision for joining the ruling party but that with passage of time, it would become clear that his reasons were altruistic.

He expressed delight over the gathering of different political leaders at the thanksgiving service, stressing that the unity of Bayelsa was crucial for its development.

He stated that politics should be for development and not to bring people down, and that his administration will continue to unite and develop the state.

The Bayelsa helmsman also said that the current peace and security in the state and its ongoing development were reasons to be grateful to God and urged the people to imbibe the culture of thanksgiving.

His words: ‘Somebody had to take the decision (to leave the PDP) and I took it on behalf of the state. I took it in the best interest of the state. Some of you might not understand now but later it will be clear to all.

‘When we came in as a government, what we did at the beginning was to ensure that most of the uncompleted projects were completed and we introduced new ones. That alone is enough reason to thank God.

‘The peace and security we are enjoying is another reason to thank God.

‘Politics is for development and not to kill your brother. The gathering here is a testimony of the unity in the state.’

Also, the Delta State Governor, Rt. Honourable Sheriff Oborevwori, who was represented by his Senior Policy Adviser, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, said the strength of Bayelsa’s progress and development was in the unity of the people and urged the state to remain united and supportive of the Diri administration.

Oborevwori lauded the state for sustaining the culture of thanksgiving, saying it is an attitude that attracts God’s blessings.

In his remarks, the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, said the governor’s recent political move was timely as the state can no longer afford to be in opposition when key developmental decisions are being made at the centre.

Delivering a sermon titled: ‘Reasons Why We Should Thank God,’ General Overseer of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Bishop Mike Okonkwo, said thanksgiving was important as God was always present at the time of need and does not forsake His children.

The renowned cleric assured the people of the state that as long as they made God their Alpha and Omega, victory and blessings were guaranteed.

Her statement, initially dismissed as a bold spiritual revelation with little geopolitical consequence, now appears to echo Trump’s latest pronouncements and policy push against the Nigerian government.

Trump’s renewed focus on Nigeria

In late October 2025, Trump – who is seeking a return to the White House – accused the Nigerian government of tolerating what he called a ‘Christian genocide’, citing recurring violence in parts of the country’s Middle Belt and North.

He announced that his administration would place Nigeria back on the Countries of Particular Concern (CPC) list for what he described as ‘widespread and systematic religious persecution.’

Trump’s remarks, delivered during a conservative faith summit in Florida, also hinted at possible sanctions and suspension of US aid to Nigeria until what he termed the ‘mass killings of Christians’ are addressed.

The statement reignited global debate about Nigeria’s handling of religious violence, with international rights groups, advocacy organisations, and faith leaders weighing in.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a swift and firm reaction, dismissed Trump’s claims as ‘a mischaracterisation of Nigeria’s reality.’

Through his spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu asserted that Nigeria remains governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty and tolerance, emphasising that his administration has engaged both Christian and Muslim leaders in the pursuit of national unity.

‘The characterisation of Nigeria as religiously intolerant does not reflect our national reality, nor does it take into consideration the consistent and sincere efforts of the government to safeguard freedom of religion and belief for all Nigerians,’ Tinubu said.

He further pointed to a balanced pattern of federal appointments, interfaith consultations, and support for Christian events as evidence that his government promotes inclusion rather than division.

MURIC and CAN clash over faith politics

Trump’s declaration also exposed fresh rifts within Nigeria’s religious community.

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) accused the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) of betraying President Tinubu despite what it described as the President’s ‘generous consideration for Christians’ in key federal appointments.

MURIC’s director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, alleged that CAN had failed to publicly acknowledge the government’s inclusive policies, even as it continued to echo Western narratives of Christian persecution.

CAN, on its part, has maintained that its advocacy is not political but humanitarian, noting that many victims of religious violence – whether Christian or Muslim – deserve protection and justice.

The Director General of the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA), Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, has reaffirmed the association’s commitment to partnering with the Federal Government and stakeholders in implementing migration reforms that will engender dignity and economic growth.

Oyerinde stated this during the Stakeholders’ Sensitization Workshop on Expatriate Quota Reform, New Visa Regime and Post-Amnesty Programme held in Kano recently.

According to him, the association remains committed to fostering an economy where law, enterprise, and opportunity coexist.

He noted that the association was open to collaborating with stakeholders to transform the post-amnesty process into a model of structured inclusion, turning compliance into confidence and sustainable development for Nigeria and the wider African continent.

He disclosed further that the post-amnesty programmeintersects meaningfully with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by allowing for more unrestricted making the freer, more unrestricted movement of goods, services, and persons across Africa.

Thus, transparent and efficient migration systems become the backbone of economic integration.

‘Nigeria, the continent’s largest economy, must lead by example, demonstrating that lawful mobility and economic opportunity can coexist within a secure and predictable policy environment. For the private sector, the post-amnesty programme is both timely and necessary.

‘It ensures employers operate within clear legal parameters, protects enterprises from liability, and enhances workforce integrity.

‘It also contributes to enterprise sustainability by aligning workforce planning with national immigration frameworks.

NECA stands ready to collaborate with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in providing continuous engagement, capacity-building, and advocacy to ensure that this policy achieves its intended goals,’ he said.

Applauding the foresight of the Minister of Interior and the diligence of the NIS Comptroller-General in driving the reform agenda with balance and purpose, he stated that the post-amnesty programme convened by the Ministry demonstrates that migration can be managed in a way that protects national interest, promotes human dignity, and strengthens economic growth.

‘I must commend the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, whose visionary leadership continues to redefine the administration of internal security and migration in Nigeria.

His results-driven approach has positioned the ministry as a model of reform and accountability.

‘I also want to acknowledge the steady and pragmatic leadership of the Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kemi Nanna Nandap, mmis, fsm, whose commitment to operational excellence and humane enforcement is giving new credibility to the Nigeria Immigration Service,’ he said.

He described the ministry’s ambitious reforms, including the post-amnesty enforcement sensitisation, as a reflection of the federal government’s determination to move towards global realities and practices with fairness, clarity, and firmness.

‘We align with the ministry’s and NIS’s various initiatives because we are convinced that they are not punitive but restorative.

It offers foreign nationals who may have fallen out of compliance with immigration regulations a lawful path to regularisation, reinforcing Nigeria’s sovereignty and adherence to the rule of law.

This is what effective migration governance looks like, firm on standards yet humane in execution,’ he said.

He stressed that when governed by clear rules and strong institutions, migration remains a source of national strength.

He also emphasised the need for regularisation of the process to help create visibility within the system, enabling the government to plan better, employers to comply confidently, and migrants to contribute productively.

Advancing the economic benefits of migration, he noted that properly documented people are more likely to work lawfully, pay taxes, and participate in the formal economy, thus enhancing social cohesion and reducing vulnerabilities linked to irregular status.

He explained that some of the bold steps taken by the Ministry on migration align totally with international labour and migration standards and conventions.

By anchoring thesensitisation process on such principles, the NIS is positioning Nigeria as a regional example of humane and structured migration management.

‘Globally, countries that have implemented similar regularisation exercises, such as Spain, Portugal, and Argentina, have recorded tangible socio-economic benefits, from improved labour compliance to expanded tax bases and better national security outcomes. Nigeria’s post-amnesty programme has that same potential.

He said that effective implementation can strengthen border management, support legitimate business operations, and enhance the country’s reputation as a rule-governed destination for investment and skilled migration,’ he said.