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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central is expected to make a dramatic return to the Senate today (Tuesday) after serving out her six-month suspension, but not without tension hanging in the air.

Her lawyer, Victor Giwa, confirmed the development in an interview with Punch, insisting that his client is legally cleared to resume plenary duties.

‘The worst is over,’ Giwa said confidently. ‘Our client should go straight and resume on Tuesday. Anything else is just opinion. The Senate cannot legalise illegality.’

He warned that any attempt by the Senate leadership to block her entry would amount to ‘total chaos,’ stressing that the upper chamber must abide by its own resolutions.

‘Blocking her again means the Senate is contradicting itself. She has served her suspension. Anything further would be pure lawlessness,’ Giwa added.

The Senate had extended its annual recess by two weeks, shifting its resumption from September 23 to October 7, 2025 – delaying deliberations on key national matters.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s troubles began in February when she protested against the reassignment of her seat by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a move that led to her suspension on March 6 for alleged misconduct.

Although her six-month ban technically expired in September, she was unable to resume due to legal hurdles and pushback from Senate leadership.

Two weeks ago, however, the Kogi lawmaker reclaimed her office, Suite 2.05 in the Senate Wing, after it was unsealed by the National Assembly Sergeant-at-Arms, Alabi Adedeji.

Speaking then, Akpoti-Uduaghan took a direct swipe at Akpabio.

‘It’s amazing how much we’ve endured these past six months – from the unjust suspension to the recall. But we survived the recall, the blackmail, and that crazy lady on Facebook,’ she said.

‘In everything, sometimes it’s good to push the institution to the test. We can’t cower in the face of injustice. No one is more Nigerian than us. Senator Akpabio is not more of a senator than I am.

‘He’s not the governor of this place, yet he treated me like a domestic staff. It’s unfortunate that our National Assembly is being run by such a dictator. It’s totally unacceptable.’

A court hearing in Albania’s capital, Tirana, turned bloody on Monday after a man on trial opened fire inside the courtroom, killing the presiding judge and injuring two others.

According to police reports, Appeals Court Judge Astrit Kalaja was overseeing the property dispute case when the defendant suddenly pulled out a gun and shot him. The attacker, who was immediately overpowered and arrested by security officers, also shot a father and son who were part of the opposing party in the trial. Both victims were rushed to the hospital and are said to be in stable condition.

Police confirmed that Judge Kalaja was rushed to the hospital but died on the way due to the severity of his injuries.

Local media reports indicate that the gunman opened fire after realizing he was likely to lose the case.

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama described the shooting as a ‘tragic event,’ calling for harsher punishments for gun-related crimes and an ‘extreme legal response against the aggressor.’

The country’s President, Bajram Begaj, also condemned the killing, describing it as ‘a terrible attack against the entire justice system.’

Opposition leader Sali Berisha said it was the first time in 35 years that a judge had been killed while performing his duty, urging a ‘deep reflection’ across Albanian society.

Data from SEESAC shows that Albania recorded 213 firearm incidents between January and June 2025, underscoring the growing concern over illegal gun possession, a crime punishable by up to three years in prison.

Police have sealed off the area around the Court of Appeals as investigations continue.

This is a developing story.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has requested the National Assembly’s approval to obtain $2.3 billion in external loans to help finance Nigeria’s 2025 budget deficit, refinance maturing debts, and sustain ongoing fiscal reforms.

In a letter transmitted to the House of Representatives, the President explained that the proposed borrowing will be raised through Eurobonds, syndicated loans, bridge financing, or facilities from multilateral and bilateral partners.

The move, he said, is part of the federal government’s strategy to stabilise public finances, strengthen foreign reserves, and manage debt obligations efficiently.

Tinubu also sought approval to issue a $500 million sovereign Sukuk, marking another step in the government’s effort to deepen the domestic capital market and attract Islamic finance investors.

The President’s latest request falls within the external borrowing framework already approved by the Senate, which includes $1.84 billion in the 2025 Appropriation Act.

The administration hopes to use part of the new facility to refinance a $1.118 billion Eurobond maturing in November 2025, thereby avoiding repayment pressures that could destabilise the economy.

However, the proposed loan has sparked renewed debate over Nigeria’s rising external debt, currently exceeding $42 billion.

Economic analysts warn that increased borrowing could worsen the debt-service-to-revenue ratio, already among the highest in Africa.

Yet government officials maintain that the borrowing plan remains within sustainable limits and is vital to fund key infrastructure projects, stimulate growth, and protect essential public services amid dwindling revenue.

The request comes as the Tinubu administration intensifies efforts to restore investor confidence through reforms in energy pricing, exchange-rate unification, and fiscal discipline.

The National Assembly is expected to deliberate on the borrowing plan in the coming weeks, a decision that could shape Nigeria’s fiscal direction in 2025.

Reality TV star and media personality, Tacha Akide, has paid a visit to her former residence in Port Harcourt.

The former BBNaija housemate, who went on a tour in her former neighborhood was seen being emotional after visiting her former room.

Tacha showed her fans her former house and the small room she resided in, while taking a trip down memory lane.

She spoke about some of her experiences and struggles during her stay there, while taking pictures with residents and fans.

President Bola Tinubu has written to the House of Representatives seeking the approval to raise 2.34 billion dollar in external capital and the issuance of a 500 million dollar debut sovereign Sukuk in the international capital market.

The Speaker, Rep. Abba Tajudeen, read the president’s request on the floor of the house on Tuesday.

The fund is aimed at financing part of the 2025 budget deficit and refinancing maturing Eurobonds.

Tinubu said that the request was made in accordance with the provisions of Sections 21(1) and 27(1) of the Debt Management Office (DMO) Establishment Act 2003.

According to the president, the total external capital to be raised amounts to 2.347 billion dollar, comprising 1.229 billion dollar in new external borrowing provided for in the 2025 Appropriation Act and 1.118 billion dollar.

He further stated that the money was to refinance maturing Eurobonds due in November.

Tinubu said that the borrowing would be sourced through a mix of Eurobond issuance, loan syndications, bridge financing and direct borrowing from international financial institutions, depending on market conditions.

He said that the new financing was part of the government’s strategy to support infrastructure development, refinance costly debt obligations and sustain investor confidence in Nigeria’s credit market.

The president sought for the legislature’s authorisation for the issuance of a stand-alone 500 million dollar sovereign Sukuk in the international capital market – the first of its kind for Nigeria.

He said that the Sukuk would diversify Nigeria’s funding sources, attract ethical investors and complement domestic Sukuk issuances that had raised over 1.39 trillion dollar since 2017 for critical road projects across the country.

‘The proposed Sukuk may be issued with or without a credit enhancement guarantee from the Islamic Corporation for Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) – member of the Islamic Development Bank Group

‘Under the plan, up to 25 per cent of the proceeds could be used to refinance high-cost government debts, while the balance will fund pre-identified infrastructure projects,’ he said.

Tinubu assured that the refinancing of the maturing 1.118 billion dollar Eurobonds due in November was a standard practice in global debt management, aimed at avoiding default and maintaining market credibility.

He affirmed the willingness of the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Debt Management Office to collaborate with transaction advisers to ensure the most favourable market terms and conditions at the time of issuance. (NAN)

The governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Monday, visited Isanlu Esa, Okoloke, Okunran, in Yagba West Local Government Area of the state, an axis that has suffered multiple security infractions in recent times.

The governor, during the visit, banned illegal mining and vowed to eliminate criminality and banditry out of the state.

Ododo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for their maximum support to see that criminality and banditry are eliminated completely from the state and the nation at large.

He further praised members of the security agencies for their dedication, commitment, bravery, selflessness and professionalism in ensuring that the lives and livelihood of people are secured, charging them to remain united for a common goal as the necessary supports needed would be given.

‘Let me thank you for your efforts at ensuring security in this area. Your synergy has made your assignment easier, and I am always ready to provide all necessary support to triumph over criminality,’ the governor said.

He regretted that the state had neglected the fertile land for farming as well as the mineral deposits in commercial quantities unexplored, assuring the citizenry of his administration’s unwavering commitment towards the full exploration for transformative development.

‘I also want to commiserate with families and communities that have lost their loved ones. As your governor, I share in your pains, and I am determined to make criminality a thing of the past in this local government. I was elected to protect lives and property, and we will not relent until Kogi State is safe,’ he emphasized.

The governor ordered the traditional rulers to stop giving out land to strangers for peanut and urged them to admonish the youths not to be used as agents by the criminals, stressing that anyone caught would be treated as criminals.

He charged the miners to obtain a license from the federal government and come to the state for profiling, stressing that anyone who disobeys the order would face the wrath of the law.

In his welcome remarks, the Commander of the Nigerian Army in charge of the operation, Brigadier General K. U. Sidi commended the combined efforts of the security agencies, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and special forces in combating criminality in the area.

Sidi expressed appreciation to the governor for his sustained support to the security agencies, noting that the provision of logistics and other assistance had strengthened their capacity to secure the area. He also acknowledged the ‘invaluable contributions’ of the Hybrid Force from the Office of the National Security Adviser for the ongoing operation in Yagba West.

The Royal Father of Isanlu Esa, HRH Oba Olufemi Ogunremi commended Governor Ododo and the security agencies for their efforts, stressing that their relentless efforts had made it possible for the residents to still remain within the community.

He appealed to the security agencies to maintain their presence in the area until criminal activities are completely eradicated.

Nigerian medical doctor Egemba Chinonso Fidelis, popularly known as Aproko Doctor, has warned Nigerians about their health and a possibility of a ‘stroke pandemic’.

While speaking about blood pressure and hypertension on his X page, Aproko Doctor urged Nigerians to take their health seriously. He also advised that young people go for checkups regularly.

‘There’s a silent pandemic of high blood pressure among young Nigerians. We think we’re too young for a stroke, but it’s happening,’ he wrote.

He also opened up on the possible signs of the medical emergency, urging Nigerians not to play with their health.

‘One sign people miss: Aphasia. Suddenly being unable to form words, even when your thoughts are clear. Please it is not something to joke with; it’s a medical emergency. Know your numbers. Abeg,’ he added.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, on Tuesday promised that there will be no more budget extensions in the Nigerian fiscal space going forward.

The Minister who spoke during plenary session on ‘The Reform Imperative: Building a Prosperous and Inclusive Nigeria By 2030’ at ongoing 31st Nigerian Economic Summit (NES #31) in Abuja, on Tuesday confessed that extensions of budget into the next year which has created so much confusion in the system.

‘No more extensions of budget into the next year which has created so much confusion in the system.

‘We have talked to the National Assembly and we have agreed to restore normalcy in that space,’ he said.

The minister also said that the government would make a greater use of sukuk, green bonds and diaspora bonds instead of eurobonds.

He said that there was greater transparency saying it took until Aug. 1 for the Federal Government to have visibility of its accounts with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

He said that the Federal Government had implemented a federal billing system, that enables it to track exact payments for goods and services.

‘We are determined to bring all Federal Government funds into visibility.

‘There is a lot of Federal Government money lying outside of CBN,’ he said.

Edun said that the fight against inflation started with the fiscal authorities and that the Federal Government would prioritise its spending, focusing on productivity-enhancing sectors.

He said that two reforms, foreign exchange unification and fuel subsidy removal, had freed five per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) into the Federation Account distribution to the three tiers of government.

The minister said that the federation funds allocation to states have increased by about 111 per cent.

A National Commissioner at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), May Agbamuche-Mbu, has officially assumed duty as the Acting Chairman of the Commission.

This comes after Professor Mahmood Yakubu handed over responsibilities on Tuesday as he proceeds on terminal leave.

The brief handover ceremony took place at the INEC headquarters in Abuja during a stakeholders’ meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners.

Yakubu, who has led the electoral body since 2015, will step aside ahead of the completion of his tenure.

Further details are expected to follow.

Globally, there is an auto-revolution; from traditional petrol-powered vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) and driverless cars.

The auto trend, no doubt, magnifies the urgency of catching-up, adapting and repositioning Nigeria’s auto-sector as the country marks 65 years of independence.

From the establishment of the first assembly plants in the late 1950s, to the entry of Peugeot in Kaduna and Volkswagen in Lagos in the 1970s, and Anambra Motor Manufacturing Company Limited (ANAMMCO) in 1977, Nigeria stood out as a hub of vehicle assembly in Africa.

Lately, the entry of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM), Nord Automobile, among others, has revved up the sector.

The automobile sector, at its peak, provided thousands of jobs, boosted local content, and spurred a chain of ancillary industries such as tyres, batteries, and spare parts.

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) was established by Act No. 83 of May 30, 2014, merging the former National Automotive Council and the Centre for Automotive Design and Development to serve under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.

Its mandate includes formulating the National Automotive Policy, recommending incentives and protective measures, overseeing design and assembly programmes, and encouraging local content in components, thus driving the auto sector in the country.

Nigeria’s automotive sector has continued to record modest progress including under the present administration.

This is evident with recent policy interventions, revived institutions and clearer regulatory signals by the Federal Government and also the vital steps made towards reviving local manufacturing.

The Director-General of NADDC, Joseph Osanipin, upon his assumption to office on Oct. 17, 2023, emphasised on boosting domestic production, increasing licensed assembly plants, and ensuring that quantity per plant improved in the country.

At the inauguration of the council’s board in July, the director-general said that annual production of locally assembled vehicles had risen from about 3,000-4,000 units to over 12,000 by the end of 2024.

One policy drive earning praise is the ‘Nigeria First’ initiative, announced in May, which mandated federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to procure Made-in-Nigeria goods including vehicles and auto parts.

According to Osanipin, the policy is a critical step toward reviving local vehicle assembly and boosting economic development.

Stakeholders such as IVM and Dana Motors, while expressing strong support for the policy, said it would generate demand and create jobs for Nigerians.

Chairman of IVM, Innocent Chukwuma, was upbeat.

‘The policy will encourage patronage of locally made vehicles and enable the country to conserve foreign exchange otherwise spent on imported cars and spare parts,’ he said.

In addition, the Nigeria Automotive Manufacturers Association (NAMA) hailed the proposed Local Automobile Industry Patronage Bill, which aligned with the ‘Nigeria First’ agenda.

NAMA Chairman, Mr Bawo Omagbitse, said the law could revolutionalised the automotive industry in Nigeria.

‘It could mark a turning point for the sector by guaranteeing sustained government patronage and boosting investor confidence,’ he said.

Beyond policies, the NADDC had also advanced efforts to increase local parts production, with Osanipin emphasising that the country must reduce its reliance on imported components.

He said that necessary structures and frameworks had been put in place to tackle import dependence which reportedly costs Nigeria about one billion annually.

‘Nigeria has the capacity to begin local manufacturing of spare parts.

‘This will not only reduce import dependence but also create a viable supply chain that supports our assembly plants and the council aims to increase the share of locally manufactured components in vehicle assembly.”

The director-general, while reiterating the importance of transiting to alternative fuels like Compressed Natural Gas(CNG) and EVs, said it must be built on standards, safety, capacity building and infrastructure.

‘The future lies in electric vehicles, renewable energy, and local innovation.

‘With the right policy consistency, Nigeria can reclaim its place as Africa’s automotive hub,’ he said.

He said there was the need for national occupational standards to guide maintenance, retrofitting and conversion of vehicles for CNG use, and for EV servicing.

At a training programme in Owerri, for instance, Osanipin stressed that a skilled workforce was essential to realising Nigeria’s aspirations in clean transport, noting the importance of certified conversion workshops and consistent standards nationwide.

He also acknowledged that while CNG offered environmental and cost benefits, Nigeria currently faced infrastructure gaps hindering a more rapid adoption.

On training and skills development, Osanipin announced that 21 Automotive Training Centres were being established across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

These centres are being equipped with state-of-the-art tools, including training for CNG conversion of petrol vehicles.

He said the council, in a bid to explore financial mechanism for local manufacturers including tyre factories, recently partnered with the Bank of Industry (BOI), where stakeholders at the meeting underscored the need for accessible funding to strengthen value chains and improve competitiveness.

The director-general said in spite the progress made in the sector, challenges still persisted which the Federal Government through council and other parastatals was tackling in the interest of Nigerians.

Sen. John Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, during the inauguration of the NADDC Governing Board in July pledged to work with the National Assembly to fast-track legislation to bolster investor protection and regulatory frameworks for the auto sector

Enoh, while reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming the automobile sector, said the administration targeted mass production of Made-in-Nigeria vehicles.

He said that spare parts and auto maintenance issue must be addressed to boost demand for locally made automobiles by Nigerians.

Meanwhile, stakeholders in the sector have decried continued issues of infrastructure, financing, and policy inconsistency, hindering the growth and development of the sector.

Mr Anthony Attah, an automobile expert, reiterated the need for urgent investment in local content, saying that, without strong local content and reliable infrastructure, our growth will remain limited.

‘The auto sector, which once thrived in the 1980s with brands like Peugeot and Volkswagen assembling in Nigeria, has faced setbacks due to policy reversals and influx of imported used cars.

Yet, industry experts believe the present administration’s renewed focus offers hope.

‘By promoting local assembly, investing in component production, and ensuring sustained government patronage, we can finally reposition this sector as a driver of industrial growth,’ Attah said

Mr Rafiu Garba, an auto dealer, called for deeper partnerships of the government with private investors, research institutions, and skilled manpower development to meet modern technology required in growing the sector.

‘Although there seem to be some recorded progress in the sector, the coming years will determine whether the sector can overcome structural hurdles and deliver on its promise of jobs, innovation, and economic diversification,” he said

Mr Chukwuma Madueke, an economic expert, reiterated that local producers had continued to grapple with high production costs.

According to him, forex scarcity and energy costs has made it hard to compete with imported vehicles.

‘We need stronger incentives and deliberate enforcement of auto policies to grow local content.”

Madueke said the influx of second-hand cars was a major setback.

He said that while the vehicles provided cheaper options for Nigerians, they crowded out opportunities for local manufacturers to expand.

‘In spite these challenges, opportunities remain.

‘The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers a platform for Nigerian-made vehicles to reach wider markets.

‘The global transition to electric and green mobility also opens space for innovation and investment.

‘It is therefore important for the government to sign the National Automotive Policy into law to secure foreign investments and deepen local assembly operations,” he said.

An industry analyst, Ajuma Omale, said that while several assembly plants in the country remained under-utilised, Nigeria’s vehicle ownership ratio lagged far behind global standards, reflecting both affordability concerns and the need for a more vibrant financing system.

Omale warned that unless infrastructure such as reliable power supply, modern transport networks, and skilled manpower improved, local manufacturers might struggle to compete with global players.

Stakeholders say the path forward is clear: a coordinated push for policy stability, adapting to modern trends, infrastructure support, and innovative financing.

With Nigeria’s large market and entrepreneurial base, they believe the automotive industry can still deliver on its original promise of jobs, industrialisation, and mobility for millions.