Sheriff Oborevwori, the governor of Delta state has faulted the economic policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration as those that have unleashed unprecedented hunger, poverty and mass unemployment on Nigerians and turned Nigeria into the world’s poverty capital.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori seriously disagreed that the probable gains of Tinubu’s policies on petroleum subsidy removal and floating of the naira had been swallowed by naira devaluation and galloping inflation.
In a statement by the Executive Assistant on New Media, Mr Felix Ofou, on Monday, the Delta governor said it was high time the Tinubu government embraced policies that would stem poverty and suffering.
Oborevwori’s comments came against the backdrop of an assertion by the former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, that the President’s economic policies had led to increased federal allocation to state and local governments, rising economic growth rates, declining imports, higher exports, and higher incomes for farmers.”
However, Governor Oborevwori disputed the claim by Omo-Agege, questioning “the value of the increased funds amidst galloping inflation, naira devaluation, and widespread poverty.”
The governor urged caution against embracing policies that exacerbate poverty and suffering.
Oborevwori asked, “Can we talk of increased money in any state in Nigeria?
What is the worth of such money in the face of galloping inflation, gross devaluation of the naira, unparalleled hunger, mass poverty, mass unemployment, and daily closure of major factories and multinationals in the country?
“Both the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund have rightly stated that Tinubu’s economic policies are not working, that the policies have transformed Nigeria into the poverty capital of the world, with over 130 million of the population living below the poverty mark.
“Tinubu’s economic policies have unleashed economic hardship on Nigerians and are not a desirable model for Delta State.
“Is this the model that Omo-Agege is recommending for Delta to copy? A model that has unleashed economic hardship on the people?
This is not a path desirable for Deltans and one they would want to embrace at this time,” he said.
The process for Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso to formally withdraw their membership of the regional bloc will commence by January 29, 2025, as confirmed by The Economic Community of West African states
It declared a six-month transition period lasting until July 29, 2025, within which it would engage withdrawal protocol.
President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Touray, announced this at the close of the 66th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.
The development follows the elapse of the one-year statutory period since the three countries first filed their decision to withdraw.
Article 91 of the Revised ECOWAS Treaty mandates that any member state wishing to withdraw must give a formal notification to the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.
The withdrawal does not take immediate effect; instead, the country is required to wait one year from the date of the notice.
The one-year period, among other reasons, provides time for a withdrawing state to settle financial and legal obligations it may owe to ECOWAS or affiliated institutions.
To this effect, Touray announced, “The authority takes note of the notification by Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger of their decision to withdraw from ECOWAS.
“The authority acknowledges that in accordance with the provisions of Article 91 of the Revised ECOWAS Treaty, the three countries will officially cease to be members of ECOWAS from January 29, 2025.
“The authority decides to set the period from January 29, 2025, to July 29, 2025, as a transitional period and to keep ECOWAS doors open to the three countries during the transition period.”
The bloc also extended the mandates of Senegalese President, Bassirou Faye, and Togolese President, Faure Gnassingbé who, since June 2024, led ECOWAS’s mediation efforts with the three withdrawing states.
“In this regard, the authority extends the mandate of President for Gnassingbé of a Togo, and President Faye of Senegal to continue their mediation rule up to the end of the transition period to bring the three member countries back to ECOWAS,” said Touray, thanking the Presidents for their efforts of the past year.
The ECOWAS Authority also instructed the President of the Commission to commence withdrawal procedures after the deadline of January 29, 2025, and to prepare a contingency plan addressing various sectors.
It also mandated the Council of Ministers to convene an extraordinary session in the second quarter of 2025 to deliberate on and adopt the withdrawal framework and contingency plan, which will define the political and economic relationship between ECOWAS and the Republics of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.
Touray explained, “Without prejudice, for the spirit of the opening, the Authority directs the President of the Commission to launch withdrawal formalities after the deadline of January 29, 2025, and to draw up a contingency plan covering various areas.
“The Authority directs the Council of Ministers to convene an extraordinary session during the second quarter of 2025 to consider and adopt both separation modalities and the contingency plan covering political and economic relations between ECOWAS and the Republic of Niger, the Republic of Mali and Burkina Faso.”
For his part, Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, who chairs the ECOWAS Authority, commended its leaders and members for the in-depth discussions held during the summit, emphasizing that these deliberations showcased the collective resolve to tackle the challenges facing the region.
He urged member states to remain united and committed to the principles that define ECOWAS as a community.
Tinubu advised, “As we move forward to implement the outcomes of this summit, let us remain united in our determination and steadfast in our commitment to the principles that bind us together as a community.
“I call on all member states to redouble their efforts in ensuring that decision reached here translates into tangible benefit for our citizens. Let us carry with us the optimism, belief and resolve that have guided our deliberations and our people.
“Together, let us continue to champion the cause of a peaceful, secure and prosperous West Africa to build ECOWAS as a community of people anchored on the ideals of freedom, justice and democracy, a vision that is propelled by good governance, that addresses the legitimacy and legitimate aspiration of our people.”
Acknowledging special attendees, Tinubu bid farewell to Moussa Faki, who attended his last ECOWAS meeting, as President of the African Union Commission, and extended gratitude to outgoing Ghanaian President, Nana Akufo-Addo, lauding him as “Mr. Democrat” and urging him to remain accessible for guidance.
In January 2024, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger announced their withdrawal from ECOWAS.
The three nations accused the regional bloc of abandoning its founding ideals and yielding to external influences, criticizing sanctions imposed to reverse their respective military coups.
This withdrawal follows a series of military takeovers in Mali (2020 and 2021), Burkina Faso (2022), and Niger (2023), which led to their suspension from ECOWAS and strained relations with the bloc.
In response, the withdrawing states formed the Alliance of Sahel States, a new regional bloc prioritizing defense and mutual support.
They have also distanced themselves from traditional Western allies, particularly France, and have sought closer ties with Russia.
In September 2024, Burkina Faso introduced a new biometric passport without the ECOWAS emblem, further solidifying its withdrawal.
During talks with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at the State House last Tuesday, Tinubu affirmed that Nigeria would pursue diplomatic solutions to the political impasse in the three countries, ensuring innocent citizens are not unduly punished for the actions of military regimes.
As of December 2024, the remaining ECOWAS member states are Benin Republic, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
Nigerian president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu is presiding over the 21st meeting of the Federal Executive Council at the State House, Abuja.
Monday’s meeting began at 01:20 pm. when Tinubu arrived at the Council Chamber.
It is arguably the last for 2024.
Seated are the Government of the Federation, George Akume, the President’s Chief of Staff, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack and all ministers and ministers of state.
Vice President Kashim Shettima is not attending the meeting as he is away in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, to represent President Tinubu at the commissioning and naming of a $315m oil production and storage facility.
Gen. Christopher Musa has directed that a thorough investigation should be into the deaths of two Okuama community leaders, Pa James Oghoroko and Dennis Okugbaye, while in Army custody.
Oghoroko, the President-General of the Okuama community, and 81-year-old Okugbaye, the community’s treasurer, reportedly died six days apart after being detained by the military.
The duo along with four others — Prof. Arthur Ekpekpo, Chief Belvis Adogbo, Mrs. Mabel Owhemu, and Mr. Dennis Malaka — were arrested during a military operation conducted between August 18 and 20, 2024.
The arrests followed the killing of 17 soldiers on March 14, 2024, during a peace mission aimed at resolving a dispute between Okuama and the neighboring Okoloba community.
Speaking on the matter for the first time, the Director of Defense Information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau stated that the Chief of Defense Staff had directed the 6th Division of the Nigerian Army to investigate the allegations and submit a report by Monday.
Speaking during the Strategic Communications Interagency Policy Committee end-of-year briefing, Gusau said, “Regarding allegations of deaths in detention over the weekend, headlines surfaced suggesting that individuals detained in connection with the Okuama incident had died.
“Immediately, the CDS directed an investigation to be conducted by the 6 Division. Any moment from now, we expect the findings on whether the claims are true or not. For now, these remain allegations.
Not less than 420,000 cattle have been slated by the Ogun state government to get vaccinations against anthrax within the next three months as part of a proactive measure to safeguard animal health and prevent potential outbreaks.
Dr. Taiwo Jolaoso, the director of Ogun state Vertinary Services revealed this on Monday while providing updates on the ongoing vaccination exercise.
Jolaoso confirmed that the program began last week in Itori, Ewekoro Local Government Area, where 250 cattle were vaccinated.
“The state government, within the next three months, plans to vaccinate over 420,000 cattle against anthrax,” Jolaoso stated.
He emphasized that the exercise is a preventive measure, noting, “It is not as if there is an outbreak of the disease in the state, rather the vaccination exercise is to prevent such an outbreak.
It is all about safeguarding the health of the animals and the general wellbeing of residents of the state.”
Jolaoso further disclosed that the vaccination exercise is a collaborative effort between the state and federal governments, with the latter supplying the vaccines.
Collaboration with herders
Speaking during a meeting with cattle herders, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mrs. Kehinde Jokotoye, urged herders to cooperate fully with veterinary officials to ensure the success of the statewide anthrax vaccination campaign.
“The exercise targets migratory herders as part of efforts to prevent transboundary animal diseases and curb outbreaks that could endanger the wellbeing of livestock, herders, and the general public,” Jokotoye explained.
Miyetti Allah commends efforts
In response, the Secretary of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association in the state, Alhaji Usman Bello, expressed gratitude to the state and federal governments for their commitment to the wellbeing of livestock and herders.
He pledged the association’s full cooperation, stating, “This exercise will positively impact our cattle and improve the general wellbeing of the people.”
With the initiative already underway, Ogun State’s proactive stance underscores its commitment to animal health and public safety.
Yayaha Bello, the immediate past governor of Kogi state has threatened to institute legal proceedings against an online medium that published report linking him to an attack on President Bola Tinubu.
Bello who spoke through the Director, Media office of the former governor, Ohiare Michael, on Monday described the publication as not only a mischievous but absolutely senseless report.
The statement read, “Our attention has been drawn to a not only mischievous but senseless report published by a mushroom blog called Daily Excessive, which attributed fake quotes against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to our principal, the immediate past Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.
“Ordinarily, we would not have even bothered to give this any attention, because no informed Nigerian would take such a ridiculous story, written by a sick mind, seriously, especially since court records are public documents.
“This clarification is, however, necessary for the record and for the benefit of social media users who circulate fake news without fact-checking the details.”
He said that the report, which is part of the desperate plot by irresponsible politicians to strain the relationship between the President and the former governor is the most laughable twist in their failed bid to execute their bring-him-down-at-all-costs mirage.
“The Media Office of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, hereby states that the report in circulation by one Daily Excessive blog, which quoted the former governor to have said that he would reveal to the world how President Tinubu became President is not only misleading but also a confirmation of how unintelligent some unrelenting detractors of the former governor are.
“Every Nigerian following court proceeding, since the former governor submitted himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, knows that trial has not commenced in any of the cases. Former Governor Bello has only taken his plea at both courts.
“The court is an open place where journalists and other stakeholders monitor proceedings. This is the reason no informed Nigerian would even consider opening this sick report by an ‘Excessive fake news purveyor’ called Daily Excessive.
But a ‘conquered’ mind is a sick mind, so we understand the plight of these mischief makers,” the statement added.
Bello further reiterated his support for Tinubu, and his party, the All-Progressives Congress.
President Bola Tinubu has appointed Nwakuche Ndidi as the Acting Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service.
His appointment follows the expiration of the tenure of the current CG, Haliru Nababa.
Nababa was appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari on February 18, 2021.
In a statement on Friday, the Secretary of the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Board, Ja’afaru Ahmed, said Ndidi’s appointment takes effect from December 15, 2024.
Ahmed stated, “The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has graciously approved the appointment of Nwakuche Sylvester Ndidi as Acting Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service following the expiration of the tenure of Haliru Nababa.
His appointment takes effect from December 15, 2024.
“Nwakuche, born on November 26, 1966, hails from Oguta in Imo State.
Until his appointment, he was the Deputy Controller-General in charge of the Training and Staff Development Directorate.
He is a fellow of the prestigious National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies and holds the national honour of Member of the Federal Republic.
“The President further enjoined him to bring his wealth of experience to bear in his new capacity.”
South Korea’s opposition leader warned his ruling party colleagues on Friday that “history will remember” if they do not back the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, with just over 24 hours until a vote to remove him from office.
Yoon’s short-lived imposition of South Korea’s first martial law in over four decades plunged the country’s vibrant and combative democracy into some of its worst political turmoil in years.
An attempt to remove him from office last Saturday failed when lawmakers from the ruling People Power Party boycotted the impeachment motion.
But after a week of back-door politicking and a mounting investigation into Yoon and his inner circle, analysts now say the main opposition Democratic Party may have better luck with its second attempt.
Saturday’s impeachment vote will take place around 5:00 pm (0800 GMT), with Yoon charged with “insurrectionary acts undermining the constitutional order” for his martial law bid.
Two hundred votes are needed for it to pass, meaning opposition lawmakers must convince eight ruling party colleagues to defect.
On Friday, the leader of the Democratic Party, Lee Jae-myung, implored the PPP to support the president’s removal from office.
“What the lawmakers must protect is neither Yoon nor the ruling People Power Party but the lives of the people wailing out in the freezing streets,” Lee said.
“Please join in supporting the impeachment vote tomorrow. History will remember and record your choice.”
Two ruling party lawmakers supported the motion last week.
And as of Friday noon, seven ruling party lawmakers have pledged to support impeachment — leaving the vote on a knife edge.
But members of the opposition are confident they will get the votes.
Lawmaker Kim Min-Seok said Friday he was “99 percent” sure the impeachment would pass.
Residents of some Lagos state foodstuff traders and consumers have expressed their joy over the drop in the price of the produce in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday in Lagos.
NAN reports that there has been a slight drop in the price of beans that has consistently risen in the past few months.
A 100kg bag of beans sold for as high as N150,000 to N140,000 in the previous months due to a shortage of the produce.
The price of the produce has however dropped in recent weeks to about N100,000 from N120,000 per bag, depending on the species.
A foodstuff trader at Agege market, Mr. Yakubu Ahmed, said the price drop was due to the recent harvest of the produce.
“We have witnessed a slight drop in the price of beans for about two weeks now.
For some months, the price kept rising due to the unavailability of the produce but now there is a little respite.
“There has been a fresh harvest of beans up North hence the slight drop in the price.
“Weeks ago, we sold a paint bucket of honey beans (oloyin) at N12,000 but now we sell between N8,000 to N9,000 for the same quantity.
“The drum species sells at N8,000 too as against N11,000 it was being sold.
We sell the mini honey beans at N6,500 as against N8,500 that was being sold.
“Though the price reduction is not so much it is still a respite for most consumers,” Yakubu said.
On his part, a foodstuff trader at Iyana-Ipaja, Mr John Nwabueze, said the reason for the drop in the price of the produce was uncertain.
“We cannot say what brought the price of beans down as in the first place we do not know why the sudden hike months ago.
“Three months ago, we bought a bag of beans for as high as N140,000 but recently it now sells at N120,000.
“The price of drum beans came down, a bag was sold for N120,000 but now sells at N110,000 or N100,000 for the same bag.
“We are grateful for the price even if the reason for the drop is not feasible, we hope the prices will not soar at yuletide.
“The prices of foodstuff are uncertain, as traders we can no longer predict the price,” Nwabueze said.
On her part, a resident at Ketu-Ikosi axis of the state, Mrs. Cornelia Edet expressed her joy at the recent drop in the price of the produce.
“When the price of beans went up, I reduced the quantity I was buying.
“A paint bucket of honey beans at my neighborhood market used to sell for as high as N16,000, so I usually opt for half a paint bucket.
“However last week I bought a paint bucket of the same beans at N10,000. I am glad the price is dropping,” Edet said.
Another resident in the Dopemu area of the state, Mrs. Sandra Obalelenge, said she knew of the reduction in price after buying the produce.
“I heard that the price had dropped after I had bought a paint bucket of beans at N10,500 two weeks ago. Presently, the same quantity of beans sells between N7,500 and N8,000.
“I will quickly go and restock before the price increases again,” Obalelenge said.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiative on alternative energy source has attracted over $1 billion in Direct Foreign Investments to the Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority’s Liberty OGFZ in the last 17 months, the Chief Executive Officer of OGFZA, Bamanga Jada, has said.
Jada disclosed this at a sensitization program on CNG infrastructural development at the Onne Oil and Gas Free Zones in Port Harcourt.
This was just as key stakeholders in the transportation, environmental and oil and gas sectors have said the Compressed Natural Gas initiative of President Tinubu is one of the major drivers of industrialization.
Speaking at the sensitization program on CNG infrastructural development at the Onne Oil and Gas Free Zones in Port Harcourt, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, said the initiative remained one of the bold reforms of the President.
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The sensitization tagged ‘Driving Sustainable Transportation: Accelerating CNG Adoption,’ was organized by Portland Gas in collaboration with the Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority.
Addressing the stakeholders, the minister said CNG offered a cleaner, cheaper and more sustainable solution for powering vehicles, particularly in the transportation and logistics sectors that underpinned industrial activities.
Represented by a director in the ministry, Theresa Ogolo, Oduwole, said the event marked a significant milestone in the nation’s collective effort to drive sustainable transportation and transition to cleaner and more efficient energy systems.
The minister stated, “The adoption of CNG as a viable alternative fuel aligns with the Federal Government’s broader energy transition strategy.
This strategy seeks to diversify our energy mix, reduce carbon emissions, and harness the economic potential of Nigeria’s abundant natural gas reserves.
“Our presence here today, at Onne Oil and Gas Free Zone is deliberate and strategic. As a hub for innovation, investment, and industrial activity, Onne is ideally positioned to serve as a launching pad for this initiative.”
She said by developing CNG infrastructure within the zone, the government was setting the stage for widespread adoption across Nigeria and supporting a future where industries and transportation systems thrived sustainably.
Ogolo further said the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment is fully committed to fostering partnerships with stakeholders across the public and private sectors.
She added, “As witnessed today, the strategic collaboration between Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority and Portland Gas Limited on CNG adoption and development project is an initiative to promote the use of CNG as an alternative cleaner and cheaper energy source tailored towards contributing to the current administration’s transformative agenda.”
She said to achieve the transformative initiative; emphasis must be placed on engaging stakeholders in a robust and strategic sensitization and capacity building on CNG adoption.
She said transport operators, industrial players and end-users must be educated about the economic and environmental benefits of adopting CNG, adding that public awareness, policy alignment and coordinated implementation would ensure a seamless and inclusive transition.
She promised that the Federal Government would continue to provide enabling policies, regulatory support and investment incentives to accelerate CNG adoption.
The Program Director/Chief Executive, Pi-CNG, Michael Oluwagbemi, appraised the impact of the initiative on the economy, describing gas as the fuel for industrialization.
He said, “Today we are changing the tide through President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
He added that the initiative had so far attracted $459 million.
Oluwagbemi said before the initiative, there were only seven conversion centers in five states, but that the number increased to 153 centers across 23 states.
The Managing Director of Portland Gas Limited, Folajimi Mohammed, commended President Tinubu for driving the initiative, adding that the Federal Government had demonstrated willingness to subsidize the cost.
He said, “In terms of subsidizing the cost, the Federal Government has identified a few people who they have given the free kits already, so they will make sure the conversions are free of charge.
“We know that the CNG conversation is pretty expensive, but through the Ministry of Finance Incorporated, under the Credit Course Scheme, there is a fund called CALM, which is for automatic conversation, light and solar system.”
Henceforth, he said, the Onne Oil and Gas Zone would operate the conversation Centre to accelerate CNG adoption for trucks and cars within the zone.
He enthused further, “The drive for conversation to CNG has been very aggressive by the present administration.
The drive has been spreading very fast. As of today, we are not having issues of conversation, but refilling, which we believe that the adoption has been very high.”
On private sector partnership, he said, “Very soon, private stakeholders would be tackling the issue of refilling and is going on very well.
If you qualify for that scheme they will give you the funds, almost like a form of a loan, over the time you will pay back.”
He asked the people not to be doubtful about CNG, saying that the initiative had come to stay.
He said already, Portland has opened about seven stations across Lagos, and Abuja and is currently in Onne to accelerate the process.
In his welcome address, the Managing Director/CEO of the Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority, Bamanga Jada, commended Tinubu for his bold and crucial reforms into various sectors of the economy.
Jada said, “One of His Excellency’s many reform policies, is the Presidential CNG Initiative, an innovative and far-sighted programme introduced by Mr. President as a component of his palliative intervention to provide cheaper and cleaner fuelling alternative that will significantly lower the energy cost in the country.”
Jada said the free zone authority remained committed to driving and facilitating investments that aligned with Mr President’s objectives for industrial growth and economic diversification.
He said, “In this regard, we have specifically designated two of our Free Zones at Liberty Oil and Gas Free Zone, Akwa Ibom State, and the Orashi Energy Free Zone in Imo State for gas and green energy projects, with a special focus on gas processing and renewable energy resource development projects.
“In the last 17 months under the Tinubu-led administration, OGFZA’s Liberty OGFZ has attracted FDI worth over USD$1 billion.
“More importantly, today’s event reflects the growing confidence that President Bola Tinubu’s Reform Agenda is receiving from both domestic and foreign investors alike and showcases the diligent role that our Honorable Minister is playing in advancing Mr. President’s mandates, especially in promoting the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas as a cleaner, efficient and more environmentally friendly energy source.”
He said Nigeria is acknowledged as Africa’s largest natural gas producer, with over 209 trillion cubic feet of proven natural reserves.
He added, “In recent years, the global energy landscape has undergone tremendous change.
Faced with the dual challenges of increasing energy demand and urgent environmental concerns, we must seek solutions that are both efficient and sustainable.
Mr Ajang Iliya, member of the Labour Party representing the Jos South/Jos East federal constituency, Plateau state as on Thursday defected to the All-Progressives Congress.
This is coming barely a week after the LP lost five of its members in the House to the APC.
At the plenary session, the House Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas announced Iliya’s defection.
Reading the letter of defection to the APC, Abbas cited “the crisis in the leadership of the Labour Party,” and other related issues as reasons for the development.
Iliya further stated in his letter that he “finds it difficult to align with LP’s position on current issues.”
Spotify has unleashed the top five most streamed podcasts in Nigeria, Kenya and South, for 2024.
Ncebakazi Manzi, the online streaming platform, Spotify’s Sub-Saharan Africa Podcast Manager, in a statement on Thursday, said that “Apostle Femi Lazarus” remained the most streamed podcast in Nigeria.
According to her submission, others were: “Motivation Daily by Motiversity”, Success Addicted Podcast with the voice of Earl Nightingale; Napoleon Hill; Jim Rohn and many more”, “Apostle Joshua Selman and The HonestBunch Podcast.
Manzi said the top five most streamed podcasts in South Africa were: “The Joe Rogan Experience”, “The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett”, “What Now? With Trevor Noah”, “Motivation Daily by Motivarsity” and “Podcast and Chil with MacG”.
For the top five most streamed podcasts in Kenya, Manzi said they were: “The97sPodcast”, “So This Is Love”, “The Mkurugenzi Podcast”, “Mic Cheque Podcast” and “The Sandwich Podcast”.
She identified podcasts as one of Africa’s favorite ways to tell stories.
She said with almost four billion minutes of podcast audio played in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2024, the continent’s appetite for the content had become loud and clear.
“South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya listened to the most shows this year, with South Africa contributing over two billion minutes.
“The numbers don’t lie. Podcasting is here to stay because it lets creators take control of their narratives and tell these stories on their terms while bringing their community along for the journey.
“Podcasts are personal, but trends do exist across the continent’s leading markets and beyond,” she said.
Manzi said that motivational shows around issues like managing finances, relationships, personal goals and health remained popular across the three leading countries.
She said shows like “The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett”, “Motivation Daily by Motiversity” and “The Success Addicted Podcast” have attracted listeners who wanted to get their lives in order and learn from the stories of inspirational people.
“Audiences in Nigeria and South Africa embrace shows about spirituality.
“Christian Motivation had one of the most shared episodes in South Africa while “Apostle Joshua Selman” maintained his popularity in Nigeria for another year.
“As the continent’s second-largest podcast market, Nigeria listened to 700 million minutes in 2024, and it created half of the new shows published in Sub-Saharan Africa this year.
“Even though spirituality dominated Nigeria’s top charts, the continued popularity of shows like “I Said What I Said” and “The HonestBunch Podcast” tell us that listeners also want conversation-style shows.
“Listeners in Kenya and South Africa also showed affinity toward these shows,” she said.
The Policy of the federal government on the Lagos-Calabar highway project has been described unconstitutional and unjust by the Legal and property experts.
Also, the refusal of the federal government to compensate landowners in that area without building displaced by the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway project has been frown at.
The General Secretary of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Lagos Chapter, Folusho Ogunrinde, in a chat with PUNCH Online, stated that land is a critical asset with economic and generational value.
He stated, “When such land is taken away, the argument that compensation should only be for developments and not the land itself is fundamentally flawed.
It disregards the asset’s intrinsic value and how it was acquired.”
Ogunrinde added that denying compensation for land undermines equity and justice, saying, “The 99-year lease system in Nigeria further underscores the value of land as an asset, as this lease is renewable.
If governments require compensation for the renewal of a lease or when public use necessitates land acquisition, individuals and private owners deserve similar recognition and compensation for their land when expropriated.
“The law, as it stands, needs urgent redress. The idea that landowners should not be compensated for their land is, frankly, unjust and tantamount to fraud.
Land is more than a physical space; it is an economic and generational asset.
To deny compensation for it is to undermine the principles of equity and justice.
Hence, there is a need for a review of the Land Use Act and constitutional provisions to align with the realities of land as a critical and valuable asset.”
Similarly, a legal expert with Stren & Blan Partners, Joseph Siyaidon, described the policy as unconstitutional, citing Sections 43 and 44 of Nigeria’s constitution.
Land Use Act is merely an existing Act and not part of the Constitution, we humbly submit that the provisions of the Land Use Act which limits the payment of compensation for private properties compulsorily acquired by the Government to only unexhausted improvements on the land, is unconstitutional in that it violates the provisions of Sections 43 & 44 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amend) which extends the right of compensation to all immovable properties, bare lands inclusive,” he stated.
Displaced landowners have also voiced their grievances. Peter Mgbeahuru, who lost two and a half plots of land valued at N487m in Lagos, described the non-compensation policy as “disheartening and inhuman.”
According to him, he had spent N14m on sand filling and other improvements on the land, only to be told that no compensation would be provided because the land lacked buildings.
He said, “Minister of Works said FG will not pay me any compensation for acquiring my two and a half plots of land affected by the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Rd at Aro Town.
They claim that I did not have a building on the land.
Then I ask, is land not an asset with value? are lands not sold and bought by people/organizations/governments?”
Experts and affected individuals are urging the government to recognize the intrinsic value of land and to provide fair compensation to landowners, regardless of whether their land is developed or not.
Sokoto state governor, Ahmed Aliyu has promised and assured residents of residents of intensified developmental projects in 2025.
Aliyu explained that it’s part of his administration’s commitment to advancing the state’s infrastructure and welfare.
The governor made the assurance on Wednesday while declaring open the 11th regular meeting of the State Executive Council in Sokoto.
He noted his administration’s achievements over the past year, stating that several transformative projects have been completed across the state.
“We have worked tirelessly to deliver on key projects this year. In sha Allah, more projects are coming in 2025,” Aliyu said.
He attributed the administration’s successes to the unwavering support of the state executive council members and the people of Sokoto.
“I commend the dedication and commitment of council members and the good people of Sokoto. Your steadfast support has made our achievements possible,” he said.
Aliyu urged residents to sustain their support for the government’s initiatives, emphasizing that collaboration remains vital for continued progress.
He also lauded the executive council for its diligent preparation and presentation of the 2025 budget before the state legislature, describing it as a significant milestone in the administration’s developmental agenda.
“Our focus is to ensure that every project aligns with the needs of our people, and I am optimistic that 2025 will be another year of remarkable achievements,” the governor added.
The Sokoto State government has assured citizens of its dedication to delivering projects that will enhance their quality of life and foster economic growth.
Popular Nigerian Islamic scholar, cleric, and educator, Sheikh Muyideen Ajani Bello is the founder and Chief Imam of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, a prominent Islamic organization in the country.
The highly respected and renowned Islamic scholar and preacher has passed away at the age of 84 years.
His death was announced by Sheikh Akewugbagold Taofeek, an Ibadan-based cleric in a Facebook post on Friday.
According to Akewugbagold, the renowned and fearles Oyo state-born preacher returned to his creator on Friday, praying that God be pleased with his soul.
He posted 👇
“Today is one of my saddest DAYS! My father and mentor, has returned to his creator.
SULTONUL WAHIZEEN of Yorubaland Sheikh muhyideen AJANI BELLO, MAY Allah be pleased with your soul.
Aljannah fridaos for you.
Our heart is full of grief and our eyes full of tears but we will say nothing but what will please our Creator the sole commander of life and death – ALLAH,” he posted.
Likewise, his son, Alh Basit Olanrewaju Katibi Bello, popularly known as Aponle Anobi, confirmed the demise of the renowned scholar in a social media post on Friday.
Aponle Anobi posted crying emojis with a picture of the Sheikh but did not provide any other details.
Sheikh Muyideen was born in 1940 into the family of Alhaji Bello Ajani and Alhaja Ubaidat Bello of Arolu Compound, Ita Olukoyi, Ibadan.
Yemi Solade, veteran Nigerian actor, film producer, and director was born on January 31, 1960, in Lagos, Nigeria.
He has been then active in the film industry since the 1980s.
The actor complained and expressed his disappointment after he refused to pay for an award plaque as requested by the organizers of The Nigeria News Direct at their 14th lecture and award ceremony.
Yemi Solade reveals the response he received from the award show organizers after refusing to pay for the award plaque.
Kindly see below for the chats and tell us what you feel about this.
Opeyemi O. Sodiq famously called DJ OP DOT is a Nigerian singer- songwriter and disc jockey who’s been making waves in the music industry since 2009.
DJ OP DOT was born on October 11, 1993, in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, also he’s known for his unique blends of hip-hop and Afrobeat sounds.
I am sure you’re ready to set your playlist on fire, then DJ OP Dot has you covered with his latest banger, “Vibe of The Year Mix” 🔥🔥
This mixtape is stacked with the hottest Afrobeats tracks that are dominating charts and tearing up speakers across the globe.
From party anthems to smooth jams, “Vibe of The Year Mix” is a non-stop groove featuring big hits from your favorite artists.
DJ OP Dot blends each track seamlessly, taking you on a musical ride that guarantees vibes on vibes.
Whether you’re chilling, turning up, or vibing with friends, this mixtape is a must-have for all music lovers. Press play and let DJ OP Dot turn your day into a non-stop party!
1. Intro – DJ OP Dot
2. Seyi Vibez – Different Pattern
3. Mannifestt – Man of the Year
4. Rema – Calm Down
5. Duncan Mighty Ft. Wizkid – Fake Love
6. Billion Sollar Ft. TML Vibez – Alubarika
7. Victony Ft. Omah Lay – Soweto (Remix)
8. Mannifestt – Man of the Year
9. Wande Coal – Shey Na Like Dis
10. Phyness Ft. Rybeena – Alubarika
11. Burna Boy – It’s Plenty
12. Wizkid Ft. Ayra Starr – Sugar
13. Mannifestt – Man of the Year
14. Jaystar Ft. Rybeena – Alubarika
15. Seyi Vibez – Man of The Year
16. Rybeena – Agba Singing
17. DJ OP Dot Ft. Ogeebobo – Money on My Mind
18. Kizz Daniel – Too Busy to Be Bae
19. Kizz Daniel Ft. Adekunle Gold – Pano Tona
20. Tshwala Bam Ft. Burna Boy – Titom
21. Wizkid Ft. Asake – Bad Girl
22. Young John – Disconnect
23. Tayo Kruz – Sare
24. Davido Ft. YG Marley – Awuke
25. DJ OP Dot Ft. Oritse Femi – Gratitude
26. BNXN Ft. Kizz Daniel & Seyi Vibez – Gwagwalada
27. Ajesings – Expensive G
28. Lil Kesh Ft. Fireboy DML & Ayo Maff – Vex for You
29. Wizkid – Kese
30. Outro – DJ OP Dot I Love Youuuu
Phillip Kayode Moses popularly known as Pheelz born on June 5, 1994, in Lagos, Nigeria is a talented Nigerian singer-songwriter and music sensation.
He has just released an exciting new single titled “5am in OJO Freestyle.”
This vibrant track is a must-add to your playlist, blending energy and creativity in a way that only Pheelz can deliver.
The song features an all-star lineup, including award-winning artists Olamide, DJ YK Mule, and Poco Lee, who each bring their unique flair and drop sizzling verses that elevate the track.
“5am in OJO Freestyle” is more than just a song; it’s a showcase of musical brilliance and a perfect collaboration that highlights the dynamism of Nigerian music.
This release promises to leave fans thrilled and craving more.
Famous Nigerian British pastor, Tobi Adegboyega, a philanthropist and entrepreneur also the founder and senior pastor of SPAC Nation, a church based in London, UK.
According to a report, the senior pastor is set to be deported to Nigeria after losing his case to the UK government at the Immigration Tribunal.
Adeboyega’s church, SPAC Nation, had been shut down after investigations revealed misuse of church funds.
The UK authorities decided to close the church, after the controversial pastor failed to properly account for over £1.87 million.
The Telegraph reports that an immigration tribunal has now ruled that he should be deported after investigations.
Adeboyega arrived in the UK on a visitor’s visa in 2005 and has lived in the country unlawfully since then.
In 2019, he applied for leave to remain under ECHR’s right to a family life.
His application was initially dismissed by a first-tier immigration tribunal before he appealed.
Having been married to a British woman, Adeboyega claimed deportation would breach his right under the European Convention of Human Rights to a family life and failed to consider his community work with SPAC.
However, the Home Office ruled that “all is not as it seems” and dragged him before an immigration tribunal.
The judgment reads,
“Various manifestations of [Mr Adegboyega’s] church have been closed down, by either the Charity Commission or the High Court, because of concerns over its finances and lack of transparency.
“Former members of the church have alleged that it is a cult, in which impoverished young people are encouraged to do anything they can to donate money, including taking out large loans, committing benefit fraud and even selling their own blood.
“It is alleged that the church leadership lead lavish lifestyles and there have, it is said, been instances of abuse.
The [Home Office’s] case before us was that all of this needs to be taken into account when evaluating whether [Mr Adegboyega] is in fact of real value to the UK.”
Speaking at the tribunal, Adegboyega said that claims that his church was a cult were unfounded and that attacks on him and the church were politically motivated.
Based on a survey conducted by Punch showed that banks, including Guaranty Trust Bank and Zenith Bank have increased their maximum over-the-counter withdrawal limit to N50,000 per day.
It is an increase from N5,000 that was allowed to customers last month.
At the GTBank branch located along the airport road, customers were allowed to withdraw N50,000 over the counter but a limit of N20,000 at its Automated Teller Machines.
An official said the bank is now in possession of more cash and that is the reason why the limit was increased.
“We now have more cash and that is why we are giving out more money. Simple.”
Meanwhile, Point of Sales (POS) operators have stated that an increase in the withdrawal limit would not reduce their service charge.
Currently, POS operators charge N800 for a withdrawal of N20,000 and N2,000 for a withdrawal of N50,000.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, says 70 percent of Nigerians who were approached for a bribe in 2023 refused to comply.
Chairman of the Commission, Musa Aliyu made this revelation in a statement on Monday during an ICPC roundtable with state attorneys-general in the north-west region, held in Kano.
DAILY POST reports that the event focused on enhancing the commission’s capacity for corruption prevention.
Highlighting findings from the 2023 Corruption in Nigeria: Patterns and Trends Report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Aliyu noted the prevalence of bribery in the north-west and across the country.
“Bribery is most common in public utilities, law enforcement, and administrative services.
“However, despite these challenges, the positive news is that 70 percent of Nigerians approached for a bribe in 2023 refused to comply on at least one occasion.
“In the north-west, 76 percent of individuals who encountered bribery requests resisted—the highest refusal rate among Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, indicating growing resistance to bribery in the region,” he said.
The ICPC boss stressed the shared responsibility of state and federal governments in combating corruption, stressing the importance of collaboration to build accountable and transparent systems.
Aliyu urged citizens in the north-west to resist bribery demands, reiterating the ICPC’s commitment to using its authority to combat corruption effectively.
He also underscored the significance of partnership in the fight against corruption, referencing pillar five of Nigeria’s National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS II), which focuses on partnerships.
Nigerian Labor Congress, [NLC] launched a one-week warning strike to protest the non-implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage therefore, disrupting several economic activities in Nigeria including the Federal Capital Territory [FCT].
The industrial action, led by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), affected Nasarawa, Kaduna, Ebonyi states, and the FCT.
In Abuja, teachers and other workers expressed frustration over the failure of local councils to comply with the new wage structure announced for October and November 2024.
Similarly, ministries and state agencies in Kaduna saw their operations paralyzed as workers joined the strike.
The Kaduna State government responded by claiming it had started paying the minimum wage since October, except for adjustments to other allowances.
In Ebonyi State, Governor Francis Nwifuru announced a N75,000 minimum wage and claimed its implementation had begun.
However, workers dismissed the announcement as a baseless claim without real action, leading to their participation in the strike.
The governor issued a 72-hour ultimatum for workers to resume or face dismissal.
In Nasarawa, protests by organized labor similarly disrupted activities, with workers demanding full compliance with the wage agreement.
The strike highlights growing tensions between labor unions and state governments over the enforcement of wage increases, as workers remain firm in their demand for improved conditions and timely implementation of the agreed minimum wage.
Abubakar Alhassan, a Bureau De change operator told DAILY POST that Naira appreciated against dollar at the foreign exchange market as dollar-to-Naira exchange rate closed at N1730 on Monday from N1730 on Friday.
This represents a N5 appreciation against the dollar compared to the N1735 per dollar it closed last week Friday.
Recall that at the weekend, the Central Bank of Nigeria announced an FX electronic matching system to ensure the Naira’s true value is restored.
CBN governor Olayemi Cardoso, at the 59th annual bankers’ dinner organized by the Chartered Institute of Bankers on Friday, said, “To further enhance the functionality of the foreign exchange market, we are introducing an electronic FX matching system, which has proven effective in other markets.”.
The past months, the fluctuations in the FX market had continued despite CBN’s interventions.
Talented Nigerian singer-songwriter and music sensation Balloranking, under Zeropanicent/Dvpper Music, has released a captivating new single titled “Okay.”
This impressive track is a must-listen and deserves a spot on your playlist.
“Okay” is the fifth track from Balloranking‘s 13-track project, “Zero Panic, Vol. 2,” further showcasing his creativity and artistry.
Adding to its appeal, the song features stellar vocal contributions from talented artists Kashcoming and Runtown, elevating the record to new heights.
Nigerian singer and songwriter Balloranking whose real name is Adebayo Adekunle, born on May 28, 2000, gained widespread recognition in 2022 with his hit single “Elevate“, which became a viral sensation on social media platforms.
He has since released several other successful singles, including “Realize” and “Fine Girl”.
Balloranking unleashed his latest project, “Zero Panic, Vol. 2,” a 13-track album that showcases his versatility and growth.
The project features notable collaborations with L.A.X, Runtown, Timaya, Kashcoming, and Bahdboi OML, blending vibrant melodies with heartfelt lyrics.
With “Zero Panic, Vol. 2,” Balloranking solidifies his place as a rising star in the Nigerian music scene.
Kindly download and listen to song below: –
Kindly tell us how you feel about this album in the comment section below.
Teniola Apata popularly called Teni is a talented Nigerian singer, songwriter born on December 23, 1993, in Lagos, Nigeria.
She is talented singer with a unique vocal who rose to fame in 2018 with her hit singles “Fargin” and “Case“, which became massive hits and launched her music career.
She has since released several successful singles, including “Uyo Meyo”, “Sugar Mummy”, and “Billionaire”.
Teni has released a brand-new single titled “Jostimilo.”
This enchanting track marks Teni‘s latest release of the year, following a series of earlier hits.
Adding to its charm, the record features a remarkable vocal performance from the talented superstar Skiibii, making it even more captivating.
Once again, Teni demonstrates her exceptional musical talent with “Jostimilo,” a song that highlights her distinctive sound and is sure to leave listeners in awe.
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