Author: Adejuyigbe Adegoke

The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a total of ₦4 billion as take-off grants for two newly established tertiary institutions: Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic in Abuja and the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, Lagos State. Each institution will receive ₦2 billion naira to support their initial operations and institutional development. The announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, during the inauguration of principal officers appointed to lead the institutions. The grants are part of the Federal Government’s strategy to expand access to higher education, strengthen Nigeria’s capacity in science and technology, and promote national…

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has introduced a new regulatory directive aimed at strengthening credit discipline in Nigeria’s banking sector. Under the policy, borrowers who default on large loans will be denied access to additional credit facilities and certain banking services. The directive forms part of the apex bank’s broader effort to reduce non-performing loans (NPLs), and protect the stability of the financial system. The circular was issued to all deposit money banks and other financial institutions, mandating strict enforcement of restrictions against borrowers whose loans have been classified as non-performing. Background of the Directive Nigeria’s banking industry has…

The Nigerian downstream petroleum sector has witnessed a significant development as the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), implement substantial reductions in petrol pump prices. These adjustments, coming amid fluctuating global crude oil prices and increasing pressure on domestic consumers, signal a notable shift in the pricing dynamics of Nigeria’s fuel market. Dangote Refinery’s aggressive price cut has prompted swift responses from NNPCL and other marketers, highlighting the growing influence of local refining capacity on nationwide fuel costs. This report examines the details of these price adjustments, their immediate impact on consumers, and the broader…

Abuja, Nigeria — In a decisive move that will reshape the political dynamics in Sokoto State and beyond, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, CFR, representing Sokoto South Senatorial District, has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Persistent Party Divisions Prompt Exit Leadership Disagreements Undermine Unity In his formal resignation letter, Senator Tambuwal highlighted persistent internal crises and leadership conflicts within the PDP as the driving forces behind his departure. He noted that these issues have eroded the party’s unity and hindered his ability to effectively serve and participate in its activities. Political Stalwart Ready for New Horizons From Speaker…

Sachet water, popularly known as “pure water,” is one of the most affordable and widely consumed sources of drinking water in Nigeria. It plays a crucial role in providing safe and accessible water to millions of Nigerians, especially in urban areas where access to potable water is limited. However, in recent years, sachet water producers across the country have repeatedly increased the price of the product due to rising production costs and economic challenges. These increases have sparked concern among consumers and stakeholders, as sachet water remains an essential daily commodity. Background of Sachet Water Production in Nigeria The sachet…

Two-time heavyweight world champion, Anthony Joshua, has officially announced plans to relocate his primary residence from the United Kingdom to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with Dubai becoming his new base. The decision, confirmed through corporate and residency filings tied to his business interests, marks a significant shift in the personal and professional life of one of boxing’s most recognisable global stars. Joshua, a British-Nigerian athlete who rose to fame after winning a gold medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, has built an extensive career as a heavyweight champion and commercial powerhouse. His relocation reflects broader trends among…

The Lagos State House of Assembly has recommended relocating residents of the waterfront communities of Makoko, Oko‑Agbon, and Sogunro to Epe, specifically the Agbowa area. The recommendation follows investigations into the demolition of structures in these communities, which displaced thousands of residents. The recommendation followed the adoption of a report by the Assembly’s House Committee on Rules and Business during plenary. The report emerged after lawmakers investigated petitions submitted by residents who were displaced during a controversial demolition exercise carried out by the Lagos State Government. Background to the Demolition The relocation proposal is closely linked to demolition operations conducted…

In a significant escalation of U.S. counterterrorism policy in Northeast Africa, the administration of Marco Rubio announced on March 9 that the Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood has been formally designated as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT), entity by the United States Department of State. The State Department also stated its intent to designate the group as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO), beginning March 16, 2026, a move that would trigger sweeping sanctions and legal restrictions against the group and its supporters. The announcement marks one of the most consequential U.S. policy decisions regarding Islamist factions operating in the ongoing conflict…

Washington, D.C. — The United States has announced a new visa restriction policy targeting individuals accused of undermining peace and stability in the Great Lakes region of Africa, with several senior officials from Rwanda expected to be affected. The announcement was made in a press statement issued by U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, who warned that continued interference in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo threatens regional security and economic progress. The policy is designed to penalise those believed to be responsible for fueling violence in eastern Congo, particularly through support for the armed group known as March 23…

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), has intensified its grassroots advocacy efforts with a community sensitisation programme aimed at increasing awareness and prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). The outreach took place at Oloko Community in Iju-Ishaga and Ifesowapo Community in Ijaye, underscoring the agency’s continued commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and promoting safer communities across Lagos State. The engagement formed part of the agency’s ongoing strategy to bring information and support services closer to residents at the grassroots level. Community members gathered to receive vital education on the nature of abuse, available support systems, and…

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has appointed Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Anthony Okon Placid as the new Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), of the Nigeria Police Force. The appointment, announced on March 8, 2026, marks a leadership change in the police media department, with Placid replacing Benjamin Hundeyin, who previously served as the spokesperson of the force. The development is part of a broader restructuring of the police communication system aimed at strengthening public engagement and improving the dissemination of information about police activities. Background to the Appointment The appointment of Placid comes shortly after Disu…

Nigeria’s agricultural sector, long regarded as the backbone of rural livelihoods and a major contributor to national food supply, has increasingly become a battlefield. Over the past few years, farmers across the country have faced mounting threats ranging from banditry and insurgency to kidnapping & violent attacks on farmlands. These security challenges have not only endangered lives but also threatened Nigeria’s food security and economic stability. As I scanned this morning news in search of an issue to reflect on, I came across a Sunday PUNCH interview on this subject, which inspired me to lend my voice to the discussion.…