Why US report on Nigeria’s public procurement falls short

THE 2025 US fiscal Transparency Report alleging lack of transparency in public procurement and, by extension, categorising Nigeria among the 32 African countries without fiscal policy should be totally rejected. The US report did not reflect the current realities in the public procurement ecosystem in Nigeria, particularly the reforms initiated by the federal government to institutionalise transparency and accountability in public procurement contracting in Nigeria. To be sure, Nigeria is among the top five African countries with sound public procurement frameworks and/or regimes. For instance, recent reforms by the regulatory agency- the Bureau of Public Procurement [BPP], discouraging the use of selective tendering as against the default methods of procurement shows the determination to cut abuses and open the procurement space for all contractors to participate, thereby promoting competition and ensuring transparency in public contracting.

Public procurement records – from planning to procurement execution – have been made available on the Open Contracting Portal and it is mandatory for all government agencies to publish their procurement records in the Nigeria Open Contracting Portal [NOCOPO], giving access to civil society organisations and even contractors opportunity to assess records at all times from procurement planning stage to procurement execution. Significantly, Standard Bidding Documents [SBDs] and the monetary thresholds were recently reviewed to international standards and in alignment with the current economic realities respectively, thus paving the way for women participation in procurement opportunities and small and medium enterprises to fully take advantage of the affirmative procurement opportunities, including initiative for community-based procurement just to mention a few of the ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s public procurement processes. For the avoidance of doubt and to put the records straight, our procurement models are structured to ensure value for money. It ensures that taxpayers’ money is properly/ judiciously spent for the intended purposes, eliminating underhand dealings as against what was obtainable before the enactment of the Publuc Procurenent Act [PPA] 2007. The Bureau of public Procurement for the first time in history is encouraging members of the public to ‘say something, do something’ by reporting any procurement process they deem is not conducted transparently. The BPP has been engaging with the civil society organisations, professional bodies and various stakeholders to check abuses in public contracting in Nigeria.

Our system is robust enough, emphasising transparency, accountability, and promoting openness and access to information by taxpayers.

Bushes Out, Safety In: Ogun highways undergo FERMA rescue operation

The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) on Friday launched ‘Operation Safe-Guard Roads (OSGR), ‘a vegetation control and drainage desilting initiative, along major federal highways across Ogun State.

The exercise began with the clearing of a 3-kilometre stretch on the Ishaga-Ilaro-Owode-Ado-Ikoga Road, aimed at improving visibility, enhancing road safety, and deterring criminal activities such as kidnapping along highway corridors.

FERMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Engr. (Dr.) Chukwuemeka Agbasi, represented by the Ogun Field Engineer, Engr. Fasoranti Bamidele, said the programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its focus on safety, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.

‘The road verges have been overtaken by bushes. By clearing these areas and desilting shoulders, we aim to give motorists clearer visibility and prevent criminal hideouts,’ Fasoranti explained.

He added that the initiative also seeks to empower Nigerian youth aged 18-45, employing them from within host communities as part of the ongoing operations.

‘This project doesn’t only enhance safety; it also creates jobs for our youth, allowing them to earn a living while contributing to national development.’

Motorists applauded the initiative, describing it as timely and necessary.

Mr. Taofeek Akinlolu, a motorcyclist, said: ‘This is safety at its peak. The road feels more secure already.’

Mrs. Animasahun Adedoyin, a native of Igbojila, also praised the effort, noting that miscreants would no longer have places to hide.

Mr. Momodu Jamiu, a truck driver, said the intervention had boosted confidence among road users: ‘This is a huge relief – we now feel safe while driving through these roads.’

Fasoranti assured that FERMA is actively sourcing funds to expand similar interventions to Ijebu and other federal road corridors in the state.

He appealed to motorists for patience during the exercise and urged host communities to cooperate with the agency as the project progresses.

Kachikwu’s bid to compel derecognition of David Mark-led ADC exco fails

Justice James Omotosho of Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday, refused to hear an application filed by Dumebi Kachiku against Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Sen. David Mark-led leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

In the motion brought by Dayo Akinlaja, SAN, on his behalf, Kachikwu, the 2023 presidential candidate of ADC, is seeking an order compelling INEC to, forthwith, withdraw the unlawful publication of Mark and Rauf Aregbesola’s names as national chairman and secretary of the party pending the determination of the suit.

‘This court is not inclined to nullify anything at this stage whether done before or now. This is a political case.

‘I am not taking any interlocutory matter,’ he said.

Instead, Justice Omotosho held that all the processes filed by the parties, including the preliminary objections of the defence, would be taken together with the substantive suit.

All efforts by Akinlaja to have his application heard were rebuffed by the judge.

INEC had, recently, recognised Mark, the former senate president, and Aregbesola, ex-governor of Osun, as ADC’s national chairman and national secretary.

Kachikwu and others had, on July 7, filed the originating summons to challenge the purported appointment and declaration of Mark and Aregbesola as national chairman and secretary of the party.

Others in the suit include Adikwu Elias, Etimbuk Umoh, Muhammed Khala, Alaku Godwin William as 2nd to 5th plaintiffs.

They named INEC, ADC, Chief Ralph Nwosu, Mark, Aregbesola as 1st to 5th defendants respectively.

When the case was called on Friday, Akinlaja informed the court that the matter was adjourned for hearing.

The lawyer, however, told the court that a motion was filed on Sept. 19 by the plaintiff.

He said the motion was hinged on the fact that despite the pendency of the suit in court, INEC chose to recognise the leadership of Mark and Aregbesola.

In the motion, the plaintiffs sought an order setting aside the purported recognition and publication of Mark and Aregbesola’s names as chairman and secretary of ADC.

They argued that the action, having been done during the pendency of the suit and in violation of the doctrine of lis pendens.

They also sought an order of injunction restraining Nwosu, Mark and Aregbesola from continuing to deal or relate with INEC in the capacity of national officers of the party.

Akinlaja, therefore, pleaded with the judge to have the motion taken but to no avail.

Shaibu Aruwa, SAN, who appeared for ADC, and other lawyers for the defence, opposed the application.

Justice Omotosho, who granted an application for joinder filed by Nkemakolam Ukandu, the deputy national secretary of ADC, made a consequential order for amendment of the suit to accommodate Ukandu’s name as a defendant.

The judge gave 48 working hours to the plaintiff’s to file their consequential amendment and seven days to the defence to respond.

He adjourned the matter until Oct. 23 for hearing.

When Nigeria first Travelconexpo created one-stop-shop for future entrepreneurs

It was a new dawn for Nigerians at the Ballroom of Federal Palace Hotel Lagos where the first-ever Travelpreneur conference and Expo hosted visitors, trade buyers, sellers and host of other tourism value chain participants to a two-day event packed with exciting take home for future entrepreneurs.

Organised by Travconex Projects Limited, a subsidiary of Aeroport Group, the two days MICE platform came handy with tailored-made sessions that created B2B sessions for all segments of participants.

For stakeholders who thronged the event in their numbers, travelconexpo was a one-stop-shop to connect, share ideas, learn the power of collaboration and how to leverage on the trend of the moment, which is the effective use of artificial intelligence (AI) ana the digital space to go global.

Also, an area of interest highlighted by one of the speakers and a good take home for the future is to know that there is commerce before e-commerce and for anyone to strategically remain globally relevant you must think globally and work locally.

Speaking at an opening session titled; Transforming Travel: The Next Frontier for Travelpreneurs, the Group CEO, Wakanow, Mr Bayo Adedeji highlighted the complexities of operating in Nigeria’s unique market compared to western countries.

Adedeji added; ‘Nigeria requires tailored solutions for its distinct environment through infrastructure, payment systems and technological needs.

‘To succeed, businesses must invest in locally adapted technology, develop payment systems that cater to the Nigerian market’s preference for bank transfer, and ensure seamless integration between digital platforms and payment systems.’He noted that understanding the local market and adapting strategies accordingly is crucial for business success in Nigeria.

He noted that strategies that work in Western countries such as the UK and US may not be effective in Nigeria due to differences in infrastructure, payment systems, and technology.

*Investing in solid technology is crucial, but it can be expensive, with some companies paying up to $2 million annually. Moreover, Nigeria’s unique business environment requires tailored solutions, making it impossible to rely on foreign technology without adapting it to local needs.

*Nigeria’s payment landscape is dominated by bank transfers, with only four per cent of customers using cards for online transactions.

‘This makes it essential for businesses to innovate and find solutions that cater to local preferences, such as virtual accounts tied to specific transactions.’

Adedeji emphasised the importance of seamless integration between digital platforms, customer inspiration, and payment systems to drive business success.

He explained that in Nigeria, businesses cannot afford to use dollar-based technology to make naira, emphasizing the need for locally adapted solutions, pointing out that payment and collection systems must be designed with the Nigerian market in mind, where bank transfers are the norm.

He jowevet advised that to succeed in Nigeria, businesses must understand the local market and adapt their strategies accordingly.

‘This includes investing in technology that can be tailored to Nigeria’s unique business environment, developing payment systems that cater to local preferences, and ensuring seamless integration between digital platforms and payment systems,’ Adedeji added.

Also Dr Daisi Olotu, GMD/CEO, Dees Holdings, in his remark applauded the uncommon effort by the organiser to not only put this together but also rallied the personalities and crop of speakers that graced this event.

‘Somebody came up with this and we have always seen it as something that is unachievable but the Group CEO of Aeroport Group, Gideon Oludauo has been able to put this up. This is commendable, He said.

Alao, the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, who was represented by a director, acknowledged the Travelvonexpo initiative and its place in the travel landscape as a veritable platform for stakeholders to learn from experts and professionals in the industry.

He added that the rave of the moment test on digital space and technology but not that beyond that, stakeholders need to study the style of the market in order to strategically align with the trend that will boost their businesses.

Earlier, while welcoming guests to the first-ever Travelpreneur Conference, Expo TRAVCONE??? 2025, Dr Oludayo said ‘this moment is historic. What was once a dream has now become a platform, a movement, and a legacy in motion..

‘Today, we gather in the grand ballroom of the Federal Palace Hotel to celebrate, not just an event, but the birth of a new era for travel and tourism in Nigeria and across Africa.

‘Our theme for this maiden edition ‘Innovating the Future of Travel: Empowering Entrepreneurs in a New Era’ – captures the heartbeat of our mission. ‘The future of travel will be shaped by those who embrace innovation, creativity, and resilience. TRAVCONEXPO was created as that platform where entrepreneurs rise, ideas connect, and opportunities thrive, He said.

Over the two days, you will experience a rich program designed to inspire and equip you with different insightful sessions and references by powerful keynote sessions that bring clarity to the future,

Among these are panel discussions addressing real industry challenges, practical workshops that deliver tools you can apply immediately, and avibrant trade fair showcasing solutions, partnerships, and possibilities.

According to Oludayo, TRAVCONEXPO is about people. It is about the conversations you will have, the connections you will make, and the visions that will be birthed in this atmosphere.

‘I must pause here to express heartfelt gratitude to the Institutes and industry bodies who endorsed us, the trade partners and sponsors who believed in this vision, the exhibitors who showed up to make it real, and you – the participants whose presence has made this first edition historic. Your trust and support have turned what was once only an idea into a living reality,’ added Oludayo.

Ex-senator Abbo breaks silence on alleged rape of 13-year-old girl

A former senator from Adamawa State, Elisha Abbo has described report that he was detained by the police for raping a 13-year-old girl as the handiwork of his political detractors. orchestrated to disturb his peace.

The former Senator said this in reaction to a viral report that he was detained by the police in Abuja after the mother of the alleged rape victim reported the incident.

Also, the reports had indicated that a former female senator from Adamawa State tried to stop the mother of the victim from reporting the incident to the police.

But speaking to journalists in Abuja on Friday, the former Adamawa North Senator denied claims in the reports.

He, however, revealed that a woman had recently accused him of assaulting her daughter.

The Senator said the woman demanded N5 million payment so that she will not report the alleged assault to the the police.

Abbo said he reported the matter to the police himself.

‘The thing is that someone first requested N5 million from me that I assaulted her daughter and that I must pay her N5 million if not she will take me to the police and I told her that I’ll report the matter to the police.

‘So, I reported the matter to the police myself, they invited me to come and I was away, so the moment I came in, I went to the police station, the mother now printed that news,’ he told journalists in Abuja on Friday.

The Senator said the report was orchestrated by his political enemies.

‘The said report is the handiwork of my political detractors. It is an orchestrated smear campaign to disturb my peace by political enemies,’ he added.

However the police has not reacted to the controversies over the alleged rape. But this was not the first time that the Adamawa State Senator will be linked to a sexual controversy.

Abbo grabbed the headlines when he was caught on camera assaulting a woman in an Abuja adult toy shop in 2019.

However, she later apologized to the victim of the assault.

A woman had also on a popular Abuja radio station in 2024 accused him of secretly recording an intimate video with her.

The woman claimed Abbo later released the video online to blackmail her.

But the former Senator denied the accusation.

Abbo was sacked as the the Senator in October 2023 by the Court of Appeal

Delivering Judgement, the three-member panel presided over by Justice Chioma Nwosu-Iheme, ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to issue a Certificate of Return to Amos Yohanna of the Peoples Democratic Party as the duly elected senator representing Adamawa North Senatorial District in the National Assembly.

The judgement invalidated INEC’s declaration of had declared Abbo winner of the February 25, 2023 parliamentary election.

Oladapo OJ Adewunmi, CEO Apollo Endeavor, Honored as Iconic Entertainment Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 at 100 Iconic Personalities Awards

Oladapo OJ Adewunmi, visionary CEO of Apollo Endeavor, has been recognized among the 100 Iconic Personalities of the Year 2025, winning the prestigious title of Iconic Entertainment Entrepreneur of the Year.

The annual 100 Iconic Personalities Awards celebrates trailblazers, innovators, and leaders whose contributions have shaped industries and inspired communities.

This year, Adewunmi stood out for his groundbreaking achievements in the entertainment business landscape, where he has consistently pushed boundaries, fostered creative excellence, and created sustainable growth opportunities within the sector.

Under his leadership, Apollo Endeavor has become a powerhouse in entertainment and entrepreneurship, bridging the gap between creativity and commerce while empowering talents across Africa. His ability to merge innovation with strategy has not only positioned his brand as a global player but has also paved the way for emerging creatives to thrive.

In his acceptance remarks, Adewunmi expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying:

‘This award is not just about me; it is about every creative mind, every dreamer, and every entrepreneur who believes in the power of entertainment to transform lives and communities. At Apollo Endeavor, we remain committed to building platforms that amplify voices, create opportunities, and redefine the future of entertainment in Africa and beyond.’

The recognition reaffirms his role as a dynamic leader, mentor, and advocate for innovation in Africa’s entertainment industry.

With this milestone, Oladapo OJ Adewunmi continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs who believe in the limitless possibilities of combining passion, creativity, and business excellence.

About Apollo Endeavor

Apollo Endeavor is a leading entertainment and business solutions company dedicated to empowering creatives, delivering world-class entertainment experiences, and driving industry innovation. With a vision to transform Africa’s entertainment ecosystem, Apollo Endeavor provides platforms, resources, and strategies that enable talents and businesses to reach global heights.

Jigawa health agency upscales campaign for measles rubella vaccination

The Jigawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (JSPHCDA) said that it has intensifying Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilisation (ACSM) for the next round Mesealse-Rubella (MR) vaccination exercise.

The agency’s spokesperson, Mr Ya’u Muhammad, said in a statement in Dutse, on Wednesday that the effort was part of preparations for the 10-day state-wide exercise scheduled for October 6.

He said the 27 local government areas team had embarked on similar advocacy to sensitise influential persons, council chairmen, traditional leaders, community members and security agencies, to the exercise.

Muhammad said the ACSM activities will enhance awareness creation, dispel misconceptions, broaden acceptability and mobilise communities to achieve successful immunisation coverage.

‘The meeting, chaired by the state’s Health Promotion Officer, Mr Sani Yusuf-Kachi, was attended by top officials of the agency and development partners,’ he said.

Muhammad further said that the agency and partners will continue to play vital role in promoting health and safeguarding the wellbeing of children across the state.

PDP speaks on ‘conflict’ among NWC members over state congresses

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed the speculations of internal disagreements within the party National Working Committee (NWC) members may derail its planned November 15 National Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The rumours of conflict followed following separate conflicting letters written to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the party’s state congress in Cross River and Akwa Ibom by the National Chairman and Secretary of the Party.

Speaking at a new conference in Abuja, Debo Ologunagba, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, said what some perceived as conflict was merely democracy in action.

Ologunagba noted that PDP is a party that debates and resolves issues through its constitution.

He said that the leadership requires responsibility, and the constitution is clear on the roles of the party officers, adding that when anybody has the opportunity and the privilege of being a leader in the party, the minimum expected was responsibility.

He said that Section 35 of the party’s constitution provides for the office of the national chairman, including the power assign responsibilities, call for and preside over National Executive Committee, the national caucus and the NWC meetings.

‘The national chairman provides overall leadership and can summon meetings, while the national secretary carries out administrative duties such as issuing notices and keeping records.

‘The secretary cannot unilaterally call meetings or release statements without approval. Some of the confusion seen in public stems from either ignorance or deliberate mischief,’ he said.

On the party state congress in Cross River, Ologunagba insisted that the NWC had already suspended the congress, while it also directed the South-South Caretaker Committee to take responsibility of the party affairs on the state.

On the issue concerning the Akwa Ibom chapter of PDP, Ologunagba maintained that the party has taken clear decisions which ‘stand,’ and warned against any individual attempting to act outside the party’s authority.

‘Our constitution does not allow anyone to belong to two parties at once and we will not tolerate actions that undermine unity.

‘The meeting that produced the party’s position was properly convened, with records and videos to prove it. Anyone claiming otherwise is misleading the public,’ he said.

Ologunagba also insisted that the national convention will hold as as planned as the state chapters and leaders of the party across the country are working to ensure its success.

He dismissed claim that the national convention is under threat as a result of internal crisis within the party.

He assured members of the party that everything that needs to be done are being done and in very seamless way.

‘Let me be clear, the PDP convention will hold as planned. Every chapter is involved, our leaders across the country are working together and preparations are on track. There is no threat to the process.

‘We are moving all over the country towards the Ibadan. Indeed, the preparatory train is already in Ibadan,’ he said.

Reacting to President Bola Tinubu’s Independence Day broadcast, the PDP spokesperson described it as uninspiring and disappointing with claims not reflecting the reality Nigerians face including cost of living and security challenge.

The PDP publicity secretary also demanded transparency on the use of funds claimed to be saved from the subsidy removal.

Ologunagba also described the announced N25, 000 cash transfers as an ineffective solution, arguing that ‘handouts do not build an economy.’

He advocated for true reforms through policies like tax breaks for home renovation, which he said would stimulate production and create jobs, rather than token payments that deepen poverty and dependence.

He said that the PDP remains the only truly democratic party committed to providing the leadership that Nigeria needed.

Photos: FIFA unveils official ball for 2026 World Cup

FIFA has unveiled Trionda, the official match ball for the 2026 World Cup, at a ceremony in New York.

Designed by long-time World Cup ball supplier Adidas, Trionda features a blend of high-tech innovation and symbolic design, celebrating the three host nations – the United States, Mexico and Canada.

The ball carries red, blue and green colours, with design elements including Canada’s maple leaf, Mexico’s eagle, and the U.S. stars, all linked by a triangular motif symbolizing unity.

Technologically, Trionda boasts deep seams for flight stability, embossed icons for better grip, and an in-ball motion sensor chip that will transmit data to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said he was ‘delighted and proud’ to present the ball for what will be the first-ever World Cup hosted by three countries, with 48 teams competing from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

The unveiling comes as ticket sales move into the next phase, with more than 4.5 million fans from 216 countries already in the presale draw. The tournament draw will hold in Washington on December 5, 2025.

Northern youth council lauds appointment of Junaidu as investment tribunal chairman

The Northern Youth Council for Asiwaju (NYCA) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of Barrister Aminu Junaidu as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Investment and Securities Tribunal.

The appointment, effective from September 18, 2025, has been described as a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s capital market and boost investor confidence.

Junaidu, a former Attorney-General of Zamfara State, is set to serve a five-year term in this critical role.

The NYCA highlighted that Junaidu’s selection reflects the President’s commitment to appointing highly qualified individuals to sensitive government positions.

As a seasoned technocrat with extensive legal and administrative experience, Junaidu is expected to bring professionalism and integrity to the tribunal.

The organisation believes this appointment will significantly advance the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at fostering economic growth and stability.

The Investment and Securities Tribunal plays a pivotal role in resolving disputes within Nigeria’s capital market, ensuring that investors’ grievances are addressed promptly and fairly.

Junaidu’s leadership is anticipated to enhance the tribunal’s efficiency, further solidifying Nigeria’s position as a safe and attractive destination for investments.

Comrade Usman Usman, President of the NYCA, stated, ‘We wholeheartedly applaud President Tinubu for this well-thought-out appointment.

‘The selection of Barrister Aminu Junaidu is another evidence of the detailed research and diligence of the President’s team in identifying one of the finest minds from Northern Nigeria to lead a sensitive agency like the Investment and Securities Tribunal.

‘This decision reflects the administration’s dedication to competence and excellence.’

He added, ‘Junaidu is a seasoned technocrat whose expertise will undoubtedly add immense value to the Renewed Hope Agenda. His appointment is a clear signal that the President prioritizes merit in building a prosperous Nigeria.

‘We assure Mr. President of our unwavering support as he continues to make decisions that propel our nation forward.’

The NYCA emphasised that Junaidu’s extensive experience in law and governance makes him uniquely suited for the role.

As a former Attorney-General, the group said he demonstrated a commitment to justice and fairness, qualities that are essential for leading the tribunal.

His appointment is seen as a boost to the confidence of both local and international investors in Nigeria’s capital market.

Junaidu’s five-year tenure is expected to usher in reforms that will streamline dispute resolution processes within the tribunal.

The NYCA believes this appointment aligns with the broader goal of fostering economic resilience.

With Junaidu at the helm, the NYCA is confident that the agency will play a pivotal role in attracting more investments, thereby contributing to job creation and economic growth.

The organisation urged all stakeholders to support Junaidu in his new role.

Comrade Usman Usman further remarked, ‘Barrister Junaidu’s appointment is a masterstroke by President Tinubu.

‘His impeccable credentials and deep understanding of legal and financial systems make him the right choice to lead the Investment and Securities Tribunal.

‘We are confident that his leadership will strengthen investor confidence and enhance Nigeria’s standing in the global financial community.’

He continued, ‘The Northern Youth Council for Asiwaju remains steadfast in its support for President Tinubu’s transformative agenda.

‘We call on all Nigerians to rally behind this administration and its appointees, like Junaidu, who are poised to deliver on the promise of a renewed Nigeria.

‘Our commitment to the President’s vision for 2023 and beyond is unshakable.’

The NYCA also noted that Junaidu’s appointment is a source of pride for Northern Nigeria, as it showcases the region’s pool of talented and capable professionals.

The organisation believes his leadership will inspire young Nigerians to strive for excellence in their respective fields.