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Amazon Web Services (AWS) has suffered a major disruption at one of its largest locations, affecting ChatGPT, Snapchat, Reddit, Fortnite and Amazon, among others.

AWS, in its latest updates stated: ‘increased error rates and latencies for multiple AWS Services in the US-EAST-1 Region.’

The root cause was later identified as issues with DNS resolution of the DynamoDB API endpoint in that region, and the incident rippling into other AWS services.

AWS first posted a notification at 3:11 a.m. ET, stating it was engaged in mitigation and investigation. By about 5:27 a.m. ET announced ‘significant signs of recovery’ though they warned that the backlog of requests to the affected services could mean that it would take time for everything to get back to normal.

‘We are actively engaged and working to both mitigate the issue and understand root cause. We will provide an update in 45 minutes, or sooner if we have additional information to share,’ Amazon said.

The cause of the outage hasn’t been confirmed, and it is unclear when regular service will be restored.

‘We are actively engaged and working to both mitigate the issue and understand root cause. We will provide an update in 45 minutes, or sooner if we have additional information to share,’ Amazon said.

Later at 5:27 a.m. ET, Amazon reported ‘significant signs of recovery. Most requests should now be succeeding. We continue to work through a backlog of queued requests,’ it said.

AWS outages in the US-EAST-1 region had caused wide-spread disruptions in 2020, 2021, and 2023, leading to extended downtime for various sites and applications

Parthian Pensions Limited, the latest entrant into the Nigeria’s pension fund administration (PFA) space will meet new minimum capital requirement set by the National Pension Commission (PenCom), ahead of the December 31st 2026 deadline.

The PFA may also consider acquiring any other PFA if opportunity presents itself, Oluseye Olusoga, the group managing director of Parthian Group said.

Olusoga gave the assurance while introducing Parthian Pensions, a member of its group at a media parley in Lagos.

He expressed confidence that the coming of Parthian Pensions compliments the group’s vision of building a financial ecosystem that secures Nigeria and Africa’s future.

‘We have a bold vision to be a catalyst in securing Africa’s future through strategic investment and people-focused growth,

‘There’s no capital aggregation without the pension and asset management industry. Now is the best time to join the pension industry because the door has been opened wider. A broader range of investments means better protection against inflation and more value for our people.’

This statement Olusoga noted underscores Parthian’s core belief that the pension industry is more than just a retirement tool, it’s a foundation for nation-building. With regulatory reforms creating greater flexibility in investment options, the pension sector now has a unique opportunity to channel funds into high-impact ventures that directly benefit the economy and its citizens.

Parthian’s approach is clear, empower people, invest in the country, and build a system where capital works for everyone, not just the elite, he said.

‘By focusing on capital aggregation and long-term investment, the company is enabling the financial services industry to move from passive management to active nation development, the group GMD said.

As Africa’s potential begins to align with global economic trends, Parthian stands ready to lead, reminding everyone that the future will not be built for us, we must build it ourselves, he stated boldly.

Olufemi Odukoya, joined by other management team of the PFA stated that the company, which is the newest Pension Fund Administrator (PFA) is set to disrupt activities in the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) via its thought through initiatives.

He noted that the PFA had identified gaps such as trust; relationship; experience and education/advisory, as bane of the pension industry’s growth and has evolved strategic initiatives to fill the gaps and provide the needed offerings required to provide brighter future for pension contributors in retirement.

According to Odukoya, since the company commenced operations this year, it has been offering trust that makes its Retirement Savings Account (RSA) holders go to bed without worries.

He submitted that trust remains the core of the firm’s operations, stressing that the company also values robust relationships with customers, hence has deployed channels to stay close to them and their family members.

Another value addition, the company is offering, he said is education and advisory, which aid customers in making informed decisions on their choices, especially on placement of their contributions on the stipulated Fund categories.

Odukoya further stated that the PFA will play big in the ethical market, which is a non-interest RSA Fund VI, and ensures that retirement savings are invested strictly in accordance with Islamic finance principles.

On what the firm has for the youth market, he said the firm has designed an app to relate with the digital savvy youths. He also promised the youth of regular engagements that will support their passions and initiatives.

Odukoya also assured of life impacting Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities that would help promote growth and developments in the society.

On why contributors should choose Parthian Pensions, he submitted that the firm offers competitive returns; digital first convenience; expert guidance and transparency/trust.

He said the PFA had put in place structures that would enable it to collaborate with government, organisations; associations and groups, adding that the company would provide education and guidance via the engagements.

To onboard more contributors into the CPS, he said the firm would leverage the platforms provided by the National Pension Commission (PenCom), especially the Approved Pension Agents (APAs), stressing that the agents would be properly schooled to align them with the mission and vision of the company.

‘We have an experienced management with roughly 80 years cumulative working experience across the financial services sector. We understand the depth of the business.

‘With the 90 percent of the working population still uncaptured, we have come at this precious time, wonderful time, to fill that space and to ensure everybody is captured within the special needs.’

We will not be able to do the rest of the 90 million minus the 11 million population that has been captures, but, let me assure you one thing, we are here for the long haul. We are going to ensure that we capture as many as we can, he stated.

Côte d’Ivoire heads to the polls on October 25 for a presidential election taking place under tight security and amid a ban on political rallies, at a time of mounting tension over who should lead the world’s top cocoa producer into the next decade.

President Alassane Ouattara, 83, is seeking a fourth term in office, despite earlier pledges not to run again. His decision has stirred unease among sections of the opposition and civil society, who say it raises questions about political renewal and democratic succession. Yet, for many Ivorians, Ouattara remains synonymous with stability and economic growth after years of conflict and political unrest.

The election will be held under a plurality system, meaning the candidate with the most votes wins outright. Côte d’Ivoire’s 8.7 million registered voters will be choosing from five approved candidates, following the disqualification of two heavyweights, former president Laurent Gbagbo and Tidjane Thiam, ex-Credit Suisse chief and a prominent figure in the opposition Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI).

Just a week before the vote, the government imposed a two-month nationwide ban on political rallies and demonstrations, citing security concerns. The order, issued jointly by the interior and defence ministries, applies to all parties and groups except the approved candidates, a move that opposition figures say tilts the field in favour of the ruling party.

The announcement followed several days of unrest in parts of Abidjan and other regions, where protesters clashed with police over the exclusion of Gbagbo and Thiam. Roads were blocked and schools disrupted, prompting fears of a repeat of the 2020 election crisis, when opposition parties boycotted the poll and Ouattara was re-elected with 94 percent of the vote on a 54 percent turnout.

The main contenders

Alassane Ouattara (RHDP)

The incumbent president, in power since 2010, has built his campaign on continuity, promising to consolidate infrastructure gains and economic reforms credited with keeping Côte d’Ivoire among West Africa’s fastest-growing economies. Critics, however, argue that his long stay in office risks entrenching political fatigue and resentment, particularly among younger voters.

Simone Gbagbo (Movement of Skilled Generations)

Once one of the country’s most powerful women, Simone Gbagbo, 76, is making a political comeback. The former first lady and ex-prisoner – pardoned in 2018 after a 20-year sentence – is now positioning herself as a reformist voice. At her rallies, she has praised Ouattara’s infrastructure record but called for stronger healthcare and job creation, saying Ivorians ‘want a government that serves the people, not the elite.’

Jean-Louis Billon (Democratic Congress)

A former trade minister and businessman, Billon, 60, represents a coalition of 18 parties and movements. He has styled himself as a pro-market moderniser, pledging to reduce the size of the civil service, tackle corruption, and shift more government operations to Yamoussoukro, the political capital. Billon says it is time for Ouattara and his generation to ‘pass the baton’ to younger leaders.

Ahoua Don Mello (Independent)

Once a close ally of Laurent Gbagbo, Don Mello, 67, has charted his own course after being expelled from Gbagbo’s party for running as an independent. A vocal critic of the CFA franc and of French influence in West Africa, he has called for revising Côte d’Ivoire’s defence pacts and pursuing stronger ties withemerging partners.

Henriette Lagou Adjoua (Group of Political Partners for Peace)

A former minister of social affairs and women’s affairs, Adjoua, 66, is one of the few female presidential candidates in Ivorian history. She ran in 2015, earning less than 1 percent of the vote, but has re-entered the race as a centrist advocating peace, reconciliation and greater female participation in politics. Her recent book, Why Not a Woman?, challenges entrenched gender barriers in public life.

What’s at stake

With a population nearing 32 million and a reputation as a regional economic powerhouse, Côte d’Ivoire’s political stability matters far beyond its borders. Investors are watching closely, mindful of the country’s history of post-election violence.

For decades, Nigeria has suffered the consequences of neglecting its environment, both from government inaction and from industries whose operations have scarred the land, polluted the air, and contaminated the water. A glaring example is the Niger Delta, where environmental degradation has dominated public discourse for nearly half a century. The wilful neglect of this vital ecosystem has fuelled unemployment, militancy, kidnappings, and economic instability, leaving deep scars on communities that once thrived on agriculture and fishing. The social and economic consequences of this environmental decay are a painful reminder that ignoring sustainability has a price.

It was against this backdrop that sustainability reporting emerged as a vital framework to promote accountability and restore balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility. The principle of sustainability reporting extends beyond profit; it requires organisations to communicate their goals, progress, and performance in relation to three interconnected pillars: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). These principles focus on how businesses impact the natural environment, engage with employees and host communities, and uphold transparency and ethics in governance.

The ESG model, in essence, represents a company’s commitment to operate responsibly. It requires measurable action-reducing waste and emissions, supporting social equity, and fostering sound governance. For stakeholders such as shareholders, employees, regulators, customers, financial institutions, and host communities, ESG reporting provides insight into how organisations balance profit with purpose. It has become a strategic tool for building trust and enhancing long-term value.

In recent years, the growing emphasis on ESG investing has further accelerated this movement. Investors now consider how well companies perform in these areas before committing funds. A strong sustainability record is not merely a moral advantage-it is a business imperative that attracts capital, builds brand reputation, and ensures resilience in an increasingly regulated global market.

Institutions such as the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Institute of Public Management Consultants (IPMC) have been at the forefront of promoting sustainability reporting in Nigeria. The IPMC recently conducted ESG ratings focused on banks and insurance firms, spotlighting the top performers. The five leading banks included Zenith Bank Plc, Access Bank Plc, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Fidelity Bank Plc, and UBA Plc, while the top insurers were AXA Mansard, Custodian and Allied Insurance, Allianz Nigeria Assurance, Coronation Life Assurance, and Custodian Life Assurance. These recognitions are more than symbolic; they showcase the growing acceptance of ESG principles within Nigeria’s corporate landscape.

Similarly, the ICAN/NGX Corporate Reporting Awards 2024 celebrated excellence in sustainability and financial reporting. Seplat Energy was recognised as Best in Sustainability Reporting for its leadership in environmental responsibility and governance. Airtel Africa earned the Gold Winner Award for Financial Reporting, while Dangote Cement received the Platinum Award for its commitment to accountability and transparent corporate disclosure. These milestones affirm that Nigerian companies are gradually embedding sustainability into their strategic and financial DNA.

The benefits of integrating sustainability principles into corporate reporting are extensive. For one, it promotes good corporate governance by aligning business objectives with broader social and environmental goals. It enhances transparency, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions based on clear disclosures of a company’s ESG performance. From a risk management perspective, it helps professional accountants and business leaders identify potential threats such as climate-related risks, regulatory non-compliance, or reputational damage before they escalate. Moreover, companies with robust sustainability frameworks often enjoy better access to capital, attract socially responsible investors, and strengthen stakeholder loyalty.

However, these gains come with challenges, particularly for professional accountants who are now expected to play a central role in this evolving landscape. Collecting and verifying sustainability data can be time-consuming and technically demanding, requiring new skills in data analytics, environmental metrics, and social impact measurement. The absence of a universally standardised framework for sustainability reporting also poses a challenge, as companies must navigate multiple guidelines and evolving regulations. Providing assurance on sustainability reports can be complex because ESG factors often involve subjective judgements rather than purely financial data. Furthermore, accountants must balance the diverse expectations of stakeholders, from investors seeking returns to communities demanding accountability.

Despite these hurdles, professional accountants are uniquely positioned to drive the integration of sustainability principles into corporate reporting. Their training in ethics, transparency, and accountability aligns naturally with the goals of sustainability. By adopting sustainability frameworks and ensuring rigorous reporting standards, accountants can help companies move from mere compliance to genuine impact, bridging the gap between financial integrity and environmental responsibility.

Ultimately, integrating sustainability principles into corporate reporting is not a passing trend but a necessary evolution in modern business practice. It expands the narrative of corporate performance beyond financial profit to include environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and ethical governance. For professional accountants, this shift represents both an opportunity and a responsibility, to ensure that corporate success is measured not just by what companies earn, but also by how they contribute to a sustainable future.

Lagos, Abuja, and other major cities in Nigeria have experienced poor quality of telecom service as a result of inadequate capacity across the networks to support heavy usage in high-density urban areas, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has identified.

During the launch of the ‘Public-facing crowdsourcing report and National Coverage Maps, Ali Benchekh, technical account manager at Ookla, stated that, ‘Nigeria’s network capacity for data services is generally strong, but capacity strain has been observed in major urban areas across all operators.’

He recommends that, ‘To relieve this strain, the most effective strategy is a multi-faceted approach that aggressively deploys 5G while optimizing existing 4G (LTE) capacity. Additionally, expanding 4G into semi-urban and rural areas is crucial to closing the digital divide.’

Although overall data-network capacity in Nigeria remains ‘good’, the regulator reports that capacity issues have been observed in urban areas across all major operators.

It added that the problem is far less pronounced in rural locations, indicating the challenge is a localised congestion issue rather than a nationwide capacity collapse.

The NCC’s report, which was conducted with broadband intelligence firm, Ookla reveals that the heavy volume of internet users in cities is causing frequent dropped video calls, buffering when streaming, failed mobile-payments, and slow download speeds.

To address these issues, the NCC has urged telecom operators to invest more heavily in their networks, with two key focus areas identified as aggressive deployment of 5G technology and the optimisation of existing 4G (LTE) networks to deliver better performance to more users in congested areas.

On the subscriber side, complaints continue to mount as users say their 5G routers sometimes yield speeds as low as 1 Mbps, and frequent fibre-cable cuts are also cited by operators as major disruptions.

The NCC reports that the telecom operators are dealing with an average of 1,100 fibre cuts every week.

In response to infrastructure threats, last year, Bola Tinubu signed an official gazette designating telecom infrastructure as ‘critical national information infrastructure’ and making willful destruction of such infrastructure a criminal offence.

Earlier this year, the Federal Ministry of Works and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy formed a joint standing committee to protect fibre-optic cables across Nigeria.

Wale Edun, Nigeria’s minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, has returned to the country after spending some time abroad for medical reasons. His return puts to rest growing public concern over his health and absence from recent government functions.

A video circulating on social media on Sunday showed the minister at Fraser Suites in Abuja, where he reportedly held a closed-door meeting with a delegation from Qatar. Also present at the meeting was Jumoke Oduwole, the minister of industry, trade and investment.

Sources said the meeting focused on strengthening economic and trade relations between Nigeria and Qatar, although details of the discussions were not made public. Edun appeared in good health in the short clip, chatting with members of the delegation before heading into the meeting.

The minister’s recent absence had sparked speculation after reports emerged that he had travelled abroad for medical attention. It was earlier reported that Edun left Abuja for Lagos last Monday night via a commercial flight before heading overseas for treatment.

Last week, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed that Edun had been ‘indisposed,’ explaining that the minister was advised to take time off work to recover fully. His health situation led to a change in Nigeria’s delegation to the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) annual meetings in Washington, D.C., United States.

In Edun’s absence, Olayemi Cardoso, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), led the Nigerian team to the global financial meetings. The minister’s absence from such a major international event fueled public discussion about his whereabouts and health status.

However, shortly after, Edun appeared in a video shared on social media attending the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair in London. He was seen addressing guests at the O’DA Art Gallery booth during the event. The appearance seemed to reassure Nigerians that he was in good condition, though it also drew mixed reactions online.

Clarifying the situation, Onanuga took to his X handle to confirm that Edun was in the United Kingdom for what he described as an ‘officially sanctioned few days of rest.’ He stated that the minister had taken time off to recuperate from the ‘rigours of managing the Nigerian economy.’

‘Finance Minister Wale Edun visits an art exhibition in the UK. He is in the country for an officially sanctioned few days of rest,’ Onanuga wrote, sharing the video of Edun’s appearance at the London art event.

With his return to Nigeria, Edun is expected to resume official duties in full, including ongoing efforts to stabilize the economy, strengthen the naira, and address inflation. His reappearance also signals continuity in President Bola Tinubu’s economic reform agenda, which has faced intense public scrutiny since the removal of fuel subsidies and foreign exchange policy adjustments.

A non-governmental organisation, CIATECH Africa, has entered into a strategic partnership with Rayyan Microfinance Bank to empower 50 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Borno State.

The partnership seeks to bridge the gap between innovation and access to finance by equipping local entrepreneurs with essential digital tools, financial literacy, and business development support.

Speaking during the signing of the agreement in Maiduguri, Umar Grema, Founder of CIATECH Africa, described the partnership as ‘a milestone in advancing digital and economic inclusion for small business owners in Borno.’

‘Our collaboration with Rayyan Microfinance Bank is driven by a shared vision to empower local entrepreneurs, especially youth and women-led businesses, with the right skills, finance, and technology. We are not just supporting MSMEs; we are building an ecosystem of innovation and resilience in Borno State,’ he said.

In his remarks, Abubakar Musa, Managing Director of Rayyan Microfinance Bank, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to expanding financial inclusion in underserved communities.

‘We are proud to partner with CIATECH Africa in creating pathways for entrepreneurs to grow. Together, we will ensure that MSMEs in Borno can access the tools, finance, and knowledge they need to succeed in today’s economy,’ he noted.

The joint initiative will kick off with a pilot phase supporting 50 MSMEs across key sectors such as agribusiness, retail, and digital services. CIATECH Africa will lead the digital training and entrepreneurship development components, while Rayyan Microfinance Bank will provide financing and financial advisory support.

The program aligns with Borno State’s broader goals of fostering innovation, strengthening the local economy, and empowering youth to become job creators rather than job seekers.

It also builds on CIATECH Africa’s ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide and promote sustainable livelihoods through technology and innovation.

Through this initiative, selected MSMEs will receive training, mentorship, and access to financial services tailored to help them scale sustainably.

Ahead of Anambra State November 8th, 2025 Governorship Poll, the Cleen Foundation, an US-based non governmental organisation, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Security Operatives to ensure violence-free and lawlessness-free electoral exercise in the State.

Peter Maduoma, Acting Executive Director of the organisation made the call on Sunday during his visit to Onitsha in Anambra State.

He said that INEC and security agencies, supported by other stakeholders should address the multifaceted security risks in the State before the election.

”Kidnappings and other violent crimes should be nipped in the bud to avoid the ugly past election experiences in the State.

‘They must ensure adequate security measures and safety of election processes to regain public trust for a successful voter turnout.

‘Regaining electorate trust is imperative, as the events of the 2003 and other general elections in the state may have resulted in voters losing faith in the voting process,’ Maduoma said.

According to him, the election in Anambra State have a history marked by violence and political turmoil, particularly during the 2003 election in the state.

Maduoma revealed the extreme violence, intimidation, and thuggery prevalent during the 2003 election, including the abduction of an incumbent Governor Chris Ngige by Police officers, allegedly acting on the orders from his political ‘godfather.’ Chris Uba.

‘This event occurred on July 10, 2003, where Ngige was forced to resign at gunpoint, though he was ultimately released, and regained his mandate.

‘The 2003 election was also characterized by armed thugs, funded by politicians, who used violence to intimidate opponents and manipulate election outcomes. Critics faced targeted attacks, including arrests and killings, as documented by Human Rights Watch.

‘The conflict between Ngige and Uba exemplified ‘godfatherism,’ where powerful figures control the government for personal gains. Ngige’s refusal to allow Uba access to state resources escalated their rivalry, leading to further instability.

‘After the 2003 elections, Anambra continued to suffer political chaos for years, with legal battles and violence causing unrest. In 2006, Ngige’s election victory was nullified due to fraud, enabling opposition candidate Mr Peter Obi to step into power.

‘The violence did not cease, as the political landscape remained tumultuous, with no accountability for those involved in Ngige’s abduction or other political crimes, fostering a culture of impunity.

‘In recent years, Anambra has seen a troubling trend of political violence, with reports indicating 14 politically linked killings between 2022 and 2024. A report by the Cleen Foundation highlighted this issue and warned that the ongoing violence could hinder the Nov. 8 guber election.

‘The rise in violent incidents and security threats linked to small arms, kidnappings, and armed groups creates significant risks for the electoral process.

‘The report also pointed to a growing atmosphere of insecurity that affects voter confidence. Specific local government areas are identified as high-risk, and the emergence of armed cult groups has intensified the volatile political climate.

‘Clashes between political factions show how intra-party rivalries can escalate into violence. Moreover, the manipulation of information by politicians contributes to public distrust in the government and the electoral system’, he further stated.

President Bola Tinubu on Monday, charged Nigerian judiciary to remain steadfast, impartial, and incorruptible in dispensing justice, warning that the breakdown of any society begins when those entrusted with interpreting its laws become compromised.

This is just as the President however said his administration is committed to improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers, noting that recent remuneration reviews were part of a broader effort to strengthen judicial independence.

The President also expressed concerns over growing public outcry about delayed adjudication in high-profile corruption cases while cybercrime matters are resolved more swiftly.

Speaking on Monday when he declared open the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and National Judicial Institute (NJI) workshop for Justices and Judges in Abuja, President Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said the moral foundation of the Nigerian nation rests squarely on the integrity of its judicial system.

‘We draw our moral distinction as a people from the judiciary, and we owe it the reverence and autonomy to remain the last sanctuary of our collective conscience,’ President Tinubu said.

‘The theme of this year’s workshop, Enhancing Justice in the Fight Against Economic and Financial Crimes, will resonate amongst many in this audience, coming at a time when conversation in the fight against corruption evokes anger over delayed adjudication of high-profile matters while cases involving cybercrime masterminds are determined with dispatch.

‘There is also a certain level of consternation over decisions of courts in serious corruption matters that engender feelings that society is being left with the wrong end of the stick,’ he said.

The President also defended his administration’s non-interference approach, stating: ‘There is no person or group who can accuse this administration of shielding political actors on account of their affiliation to this government or the political party. We have allowed both the judiciary and the anti-graft agencies to exercise their constitutional and statutory powers.’

President Tinubu highlighted the achievements in the anti-corruption drive, revealing that the EFCC ‘has recorded over seven thousand convictions in the first two years of my administration and recovered assets in excess of five hundred billion naira.’

He added that the recovered proceeds are being channelled into social investment programmes, including the Students Loan and Consumer Credit Schemes.

Addressing the technological challenges facing the judiciary, President Tinubu noted the evolution from simple email evidence to complex blockchain analysis in financial crime cases.

‘How does one do justice in a cryptocurrency fraud case except one is grounded in such matters? Learning and relearning is no longer a buzz phrase but an essential undertaking for continued relevance in this digital age,’ he said.

The President reminded judicial officers that corruption affects everyone equally: ‘Your vantage position on the Bench does not insulate you from the consequences of corruption. There are no special roads, hospitals, or communities for judges.

‘A Nigeria free of corruption is possible if we all commit to doing what is right in our respective spheres of influence,’ President Tinubu said.

Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and Chairman of the Board of Governors of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), in her remarks, maintained that the decisions of judicial officers have a profound impact on the growth and stability of Nigeria.

She charged judicial officers to be deliberate in applying the relevant constitutional tools at their disposal while exercising firm control over proceedings.

She emphasised that the strength of the judiciary lies in the trust reposed in judges by the Nigerian people, urging them to ensure that justice is neither delayed nor partial.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, represented by Mohammed Monguno, the Chief Whip of the Senate, stressed that while corruption is an enemy of the state, the fight against it requires action from the legislature, a vigilant citizenry, and a courageous judiciary.

He assured that the National Assembly will continue to play its part in equipping law enforcement agencies to combat crime so that corruption finds no place to hide in Nigeria.

The administrator of the NJI, B.A. Adejumo, stated that the gathering has become a significant milestone over the years in the quest to fight corruption, adding that ‘no nation can develop without tackling corruption.’

He called for continued collaboration between the EFCC, the judiciary, and the Institute to ensure that judicial officers remain abreast of the latest developments in the justice sector.

Ola Olukoyede, chairman of the EFCC, in his welcome address, disclosed that the landmark decision of the Supreme Court, which upheld the Commission’s anti-corruption mandate, has further strengthened anti-corruption institutions.

‘The record of 4,111 convictions and humongous asset recoveries could not have been achieved by a lazy or ineffective judiciary,’ he added.

Soldiers of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army have intensified efforts in the ongoing Anti-Crude Oil Theft operations in the Niger Delta, leading to the arrest of 28 suspected oil thieves and recovery of over 290,000 litres of stolen products

The operations, conducted between October 6 and 19, 2025, in conjunction with other security agencies, resulted also in the deactivation of four illegal refining sites, across the region.

Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Lieutenant Colonel and Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, in a release on October 19, 2025, said operations were conducted across Rivers State with tremendous successes recorded.

‘At Okrika in Okrika Local Government Area, two wooden boats were intercepted while loading Premium Motor Spirit from a vessel offloading the product at a jetty.

‘Additionally, two boats were intercepted at Okrika, with one loaded with over 33,000 litres of stolen products at a jetty in Okrika. Relatedly, another wooden boat loaded with over 5,000 litres of stolen products was also intercepted in the area,’ he said.

Danjuma noted that in a related development, ‘following a tip-off on illegal oil bunkering activities around a pipeline after Sterling Global Company Road, Akpabo, at Elele Alimini in Emohua LGA, troops swung into action and impounded a tanker with registration number Rivers JJN 287 ZU coming out of the pipeline right of way.

‘The vehicle was suspected to have loaded about 90,000 litres of stolen products from the site. Two suspects, the driver and his motor boy, were taken into custody. Also, at Okolomade in Abua/Odual LGA, over 2,600 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil were recovered.

‘Along Imo River, troops deactivated two illegal refining sites and seized three drum pots, three receivers, and over 2,500 litres of stolen crude around Obuzor, Asa Asa in Ukwa West LGA of Abia State.

‘At Orashi River waterside, two wooden boats were intercepted with over 700 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene recovered. Six suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures,’ he said.

In Delta State, Danjuma said, ‘troops acted on credible intelligence on the activities of oil thieves along the PAN Ocean Pipeline right of way in Ethiope East LGA.

‘On sighting troops, the criminals fled. However, one suspect was arrested and various items recovered. These included vandalized pipes, hoses, a large quantity of Bagco sacks, and leather materials. Others included one Peugeot 406 car, a Camry car, one Toyota Jeep, as well as a lorry van loaded with over 1,650 litres of stolen products.

‘Additionally, troops on pipeline surveillance along the Midwestern Oil and Gas Pipeline Right of way at Umusan-Obodogwa in Ndokwa West LGA intercepted a Mercedes-Benz truck with registration number Enugu VE 174 ENU conveying 24 pieces of 14-inch pipes and three gas cylinders.

‘Two persons were arrested. The pipes may have been vandalized from the SEPCO Oil and Gas pipeline at Kwale. Furthermore, around Eruemukohwarien in Ughelli North LGA, a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number Delta PTN 926 XA was intercepted, loaded with ten drums filled with 2,500 litres of condensates. The driver was arrested.

‘In Bayelsa and Akwa Ibom States, troops have scaled up both kinetic and non-kinetic operations, effectively dominating the operational landscape and thereby denying criminal elements the freedom of action,’ Danjuma said.

Emmanuel Eric Emekah, Major General and General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Danjuma said, has commended the troops for the exploits recorded.

The GOC, further charged them to sustain the operational tempo in clamping down on economic saboteurs and other associated crimes in the Niger Delta.