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Akwa Ibom gov hails Hilda Baci for guinness world record feat

By
Annette Ikponmwonba
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Guinness Word Records Certifies Hilda Baci's Cooking Marathon

By Annette Ikponmwonba | September 17, 2026

Key Points

· Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno has commended chef Hilda Baci for her Guinness World Record breaking achievements

· Eno received Baci at the Government House in Uyo, praising her bold spirit and the honour she has brought to the state

· Baci, an Akwa Ibom indigene, praised the state’s infrastructural development, peaceful atmosphere and investment opportunities under Eno’s administration

· She specifically highlighted the world class facilities at the Victor Attah International Airport

· Baci pledged to partner with stakeholders to support the state’s development and urged tourists and investors to visit

· She called on Akwa Ibom people to continue promoting love, unity and peace to attract sustainable development

Main Story

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has hailed Nigerian chef and Guinness World Record holder, Hilda Baci, for her daring spirit and record breaking achievements, which he said have brought honour to the state. Eno gave the commendation on Wednesday when he received the Akwa Ibom born celebrity chef at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital.

The governor described Baci’s success story as proof that determination and courage can enable individuals to break barriers and achieve remarkable feats. “I want to specially commend our very own, Hilda Baci, for her bold and adventurous spirit, which has contributed to her world record breaking achievements and have brought honour to the State,” he said.

In her remarks, Baci described Akwa Ibom as amazingly beautiful, applauding the pace of infrastructural development, the peaceful atmosphere and investment opportunities under the Eno administration. She expressed particular delight at the facilities available at the Victor Attah International Airport, describing them as first rate and impressive.

The Issues

The exchange reflects a broader pattern of Nigerian state governments leveraging the achievements of prominent indigenes to promote state branding and investment appeal. Baci’s global recognition through her Guinness World Record has made her a valuable ambassador for Akwa Ibom, and the governor’s public reception of her appears calculated to reinforce that association while also showcasing the administration’s development achievements to a wider audience.

For Baci’s part, her comments went beyond simple gratitude toward the governor, extending into a broader pitch for tourism and investment in the state. This positions her not just as a returning celebrity being honoured, but as an active participant in promoting Akwa Ibom’s economic and tourism potential, a role that could carry real weight given her global profile and reach.

There is also an underlying theme in her remarks about the importance of local governance visibility, since her praise for infrastructure such as the airport and general development pace effectively serves as a public endorsement of the current administration’s policy direction, whether intentional or not.

What’s Being Said

Eno used the occasion to publicly credit Baci’s achievements as a source of state pride, urging her to continue flying the state’s flag high and reinforcing his message about determination and courage as pathways to breaking barriers, Baci, in turn, offered extensive praise for the governor’s leadership style and vision, crediting him directly for the state’s current state of development. She also spoke warmly about the character of Akwa Ibom people, describing them as hospitable and industrious, and pledged to work with relevant stakeholders to further support the state’s development agenda.

She closed her remarks with a direct appeal to tourists and investors, describing Akwa Ibom as a state worth visiting to explore its environmental, recreational, hospitality and other investment opportunities, while also encouraging residents to continue promoting love, unity and peace as a foundation for sustainable development.

What’s Next

It remains to be seen whether Baci’s pledge to partner with stakeholders translates into any concrete initiatives or programmes tied to tourism promotion or investment attraction for the state, Attention may also turn to how the Akwa Ibom State Government continues to leverage prominent indigenes like Baci for broader state branding efforts, particularly as the administration continues to promote its infrastructural and developmental achievements to both local and international audiences.

Bottom Line

The governor’s reception of Hilda Baci reflects a deliberate effort to align her global recognition with the state’s development narrative, while her enthusiastic endorsement of Akwa Ibom’s infrastructure and investment climate effectively turns a courtesy visit into an informal promotional platform for the state.

Modi marks 76th birthday as India leads 2026 BRICS agenda

FG seeks food sector investment through nutrition initiative

By
Kehinde Victor
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KEY POINTS

  • FG plans a nutrition strategy to support food industrialisation and local value addition.
  • Government will map private sector capabilities and identify bottlenecks across the food value chain.
  • Officials seek financing, equipment and stronger local sourcing to help food processing MSMEs scale.

MAIN STORY

The Federal Government is working with the Access to Nutrition Initiative (ATNi) to attract investment and increase local value addition in Nigeria’s food sector through the Nutrition 774 Initiative.

Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Sen. John Enoh, disclosed this on Wednesday at a private sector roundtable on nutrition in Abuja.

Enoh said the initiative would use nutrition as a driver for food industrialisation, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), private investment, job creation and stronger domestic food value chains.

He said the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment would develop a Unified Trade Sector Nutrition Strategic Plan and conduct a national mapping exercise involving stakeholders across the sector.

According to him, the exercise would identify private sector capabilities and constraints across the food and nutrition value chain and provide an actionable framework for nutrition driven industrial development.

Enoh said the government was moving nutrition beyond its traditional treatment as a health and humanitarian issue and positioning it as an industrial and economic priority.

He identified cassava, legumes, cocoa, oil palm, cashew and biofortified crops among Nigeria’s agricultural resources that could provide raw materials for competitive domestic food industries.

The minister said MSMEs would require technical support, modern processing equipment and accessible financing to expand their food processing activities.

He identified Cluster Facility Centres as potential platforms for improving processing, hygienic handling, packaging and compliance with quality standards.

Enoh also urged food manufacturers to source more raw materials locally, increase the use of biofortified inputs, improve product formulations and produce affordable fortified foods.

He called on financial institutions to develop affordable, long term financing products suited to food processing businesses.

Development partners and regulatory agencies, he added, should strengthen technical assistance, quality assurance, accountability and local procurement.

Enoh said converting agricultural resources into processed products would create stronger markets for farmers, expand opportunities for women and young people, increase employment and strengthen domestic manufacturing.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Chris Isokpunwu, described nutrition as an economic and industrial issue with implications for enterprise development, investment, trade and productivity.

He said private sector participation was essential because businesses provided investment, innovation, production networks and access to markets.

Isokpunwu said the roundtable would identify opportunities and bottlenecks, map private sector capabilities and develop practical pathways under the MarketFit Nutrition 2035 framework.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Nutrition, Mrs Uju Anwukah, said a healthy population was necessary for sustainable economic development.

She described the Nutrition 774 Initiative as a governance and accountability framework for tackling malnutrition across Nigeria’s 774 Local Government Areas.

Anwukah said malnutrition had implications for education, workforce productivity, economic growth and national competitiveness, adding that addressing it required private sector involvement beyond corporate social responsibility.

The Executive Director of ATNi, Greg Garrett, also called for nutrition to become a central part of Nigeria’s industrial and economic development strategy.

Garrett said addressing malnutrition required coordinated action across the food system, including farming, processing, manufacturing, distribution and consumption.

He said Nigeria’s agricultural resources and large consumer market provided opportunities to expand domestic processing and strengthen links between farmers and manufacturers.

Garrett said greater local sourcing could create markets for farmers, strengthen domestic value chains, attract investment and generate employment.

He also called for stronger compliance with national and international standards covering food production, fortification and quality assurance.

THE ISSUES

  1. Nigeria’s food sector has an opportunity to capture more value from agricultural production by expanding domestic processing. The government is seeking to use nutrition policy as a link between agriculture, manufacturing and consumer demand.
  2. Food processing MSMEs face financing and equipment constraints that can limit their ability to scale. The proposed approach includes technical assistance, modern processing facilities and longer term financing tailored to the sector.
  3. Local sourcing could strengthen connections between farmers and food manufacturers by creating more consistent markets for agricultural products. Government also wants manufacturers to make greater use of biofortified raw materials.
  4. Cluster Facility Centres could provide shared infrastructure for businesses that need processing, packaging, hygiene and quality control facilities. This could help smaller businesses meet production and regulatory requirements without carrying the full cost individually.
  5. Nutrition has implications beyond food consumption because malnutrition can affect education, productivity and economic performance. Government and ATNi are therefore pushing for private sector participation as part of a broader economic response.

WHAT’S BEING SAID

“Nigeria’s agricultural resources and large consumer market presented opportunities to expand local food processing and strengthen linkages between farmers and manufacturers.” – Greg Garrett, Executive Director, ATNi

WHAT’S NEXT

The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment will develop the Unified Trade Sector Nutrition Strategic Plan and conduct a national multi stakeholder mapping exercise.

The roundtable is also expected to inform practical pathways under the MarketFit Nutrition 2035 framework.

BOTTOM LINE

The Federal Government wants nutrition to become a driver of food industrialisation, investment and local value addition rather than remain primarily a health concern. The strategy will focus on stronger domestic processing, MSME development, financing and private sector participation.

Obi mourns Olu Jacobs, says actor represented Nigerian excellence

Obi mourns Olu Jacobs, says actor represented Nigerian excellence

By
Annette Ikponmwonba
-

By Annette Ikponmwonba | September 17, 2026

Key Points

· Peter Obi has mourned veteran actor Olu Jacobs, describing him as an embodiment of Nigerian excellence

· Obi’s tribute was posted on X on Thursday, a day after the actor’s death was announced by his family

· He praised Jacobs’ decades long career spanning Britain and Nigeria as a remarkable contribution to the country’s film and creative industry

· Obi said Jacobs’ death is a reminder that life is temporary and that people must give society their best through their talents

· He extended condolences to Jacobs’ family, friends, colleagues and the wider Nigerian creative community

· Obi closed his tribute with a prayer for eternal rest for Jacobs and strength for those mourning him

Main Story

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has mourned the death of veteran Nigerian actor Olu Jacobs, describing him as an embodiment of the excellence of the Nigerian spirit. Obi shared his tribute on his X handle on Thursday, a day after Jacobs’ family announced his passing.

He described Jacobs’ contribution to Nigeria’s film and creative industry as remarkable, pointing specifically to a career that spanned several decades across both Britain and Nigeria. “Olu Jacobs represented the excellence of the Nigerian spirit. He exemplified this through his remarkable contributions to the film and creative industry, in a career spanning several decades across both Britain and Nigeria,” he wrote, The former Anambra State governor went further to frame Jacobs’ life as a broader example of personal values, saying it demonstrated the importance of talent, discipline, professionalism and dedication to one’s craft.

The Issues

Obi’s tribute adds to a wave of public mourning that has followed Jacobs’ death, joining other prominent figures, including President Tinubu, in publicly honouring the actor’s legacy. The consistency of these tributes across the political divide reflects just how widely respected Jacobs was as a cultural figure, transcending the usual political fault lines that often separate public commentary in Nigeria.

Obi’s framing also touches on a recurring theme in his public commentary more broadly, using moments like this to draw lessons about discipline, purpose and contribution to society. This reflects a pattern in how he engages with public tributes, often extending them beyond simple condolence into broader commentary on values and national character.

What’s Being Said

Obi used Jacobs’ passing to reflect on mortality and public responsibility, stating that his passing is once again a reminder to all of us that our time here is limited, and urging that whatever responsibility people are entrusted with, they must give it their very best so that society benefits from their genius, talent and competence.

He also extended personal condolences, writing that his thoughts and prayers are with Jacobs’ family, friends, colleagues and the entire Nigerian creative community as they remember his life, times and passion, Obi closed his tribute with a prayer, asking that the Lord grant Jacobs and all the faithful departed eternal rest.

What’s Next

Attention will likely remain on further tributes expected from other political figures, industry colleagues and members of the Nigerian creative community in the days ahead, as reactions to Jacobs’ death continue to emerge across the country, Focus will also likely shift toward funeral and memorial arrangements for Jacobs, along with any official recognition from government bodies or industry associations honouring his decades long contribution to Nigerian and international film.

Bottom Line

Obi’s tribute reflects the widespread and politically unifying reach of Olu Jacobs’ legacy, with the presidential candidate using the moment to honour the actor’s decades of work while reinforcing his own recurring message about discipline, purpose and contribution to society.

US House passes Russia sanctions bill with 100 per cent tariff threat

BBNaija day 52- Barry’s decision shakes up the house

By
Annette Ikponmwonba
-

By Annette Ikponmwonba | September 17, 2026

Key Points

· Housemates spent the day dissecting HoH Barry’s decision to save Aikou over Keivo and Bluethopia using the Ultimate Veto Power

· Temi Nkem broke down in the Diary Room over Barry’s decision, Aikou’s comments about her weight, and feelings of isolation, later apologising to Barry face to face

· Bells had an emotional Diary Room session, revealing a recent mental break and grief over Abi’s exit from the house

· Barry used his own diary session to address tension with Bluethopia and reflect on shifting relationships in the house

· Team Loveable Snack, made up of Chimsom Chuka, Bells and Tram, won the Munch It sponsored task

· The house wrapped the day rehearsing for their upcoming Wager presentation

Main Story

Since the live nominations show on Day 50, HoH Barry has remained the center of house conversation, particularly over his decision to use the Ultimate Veto Power to save Aikou. That storyline carried into Day 51, shaping much of the day’s mood and conversation, The morning began with wager script preparation from Ricky, Keivo and Yusuf, alongside some friction between Ricky and Tram over house loyalty. By mid morning, conversation in the Garden turned toward Barry’s save decision, with Ricky, Keivo, Oyin, Tram and Aikou debating whether it reflected smart gameplay or personal bias.

The emotional weight of the day intensified through a string of Diary Room sessions. Temi Nkem broke down over not being saved by Barry, her frustration with Aikou’s comments about her weight, and a growing sense of isolation in the house. Following Biggie’s guidance, she later approached Barry directly in the Main Lounge to apologise for holding a grudge. Tram and Flora used their own sessions to reflect on personal growth and shifting alliances, while Chimsom Chuka admitted to feeling mentally drained but proud of the bonds he’s built, particularly with Sheba, Temi Nkem and Barry.

Bells delivered one of the day’s most emotional moments, revealing in the Diary Room that she had recently experienced a mental break triggered by stress and being labelled a witch by other housemates. She spoke about missing evicted housemates Abi and Araga, especially Abi, whom she described as the one person she confided in completely.

The Issues

Barry’s use of the Ultimate Veto Power to save Aikou continues to ripple through house dynamics days after the decision was made. The lingering tension with Bluethopia, who Barry says has grown distant and didn’t give him a chance to explain his reasoning, suggests the fallout from that choice hasn’t fully settled. Similarly, Temi Nkem’s emotional reaction and subsequent apology point to how deeply the save decision affected relationships beyond just the mechanics of the game.

There’s also a broader pattern emerging around house alliances shifting under pressure. Bells described distancing herself from Oyin and Flora, whom she now views as bullies, while also opening up about how being in the house has changed her behavior in ways she says she wouldn’t recognise outside it. These kinds of admissions point to the psychological toll of prolonged confinement and competition as the season heads toward its final stretch.

What’s Being Said

Barry used his diary session to explain his reasoning behind the save, telling Biggie he feels closest to Aikou, Keivo, Temi Nkem, Tram and Bluethopia, and that he made his decision after hearing everyone’s case during live nominations. He noted that while he was able to smooth things over with Temi Nkem, Bluethopia didn’t give him the same opportunity to explain himself.

Bells was candid about how isolating the experience has become for her, describing her mental break and grief over Abi’s exit, while also praising Aikou’s MIPOW win and Barry’s HoH and finalist status as well deserved, Tram, reflecting on his own journey, declared himself “undeniable” heading into the final stretch of the season, while also floating theories with Barry and Keivo about who might be the season’s secret “Gambit,” pointing to Ricky or Flora as possibilities since neither begged to be saved during live nominations.

What’s Next

With Team Loveable Snack’s win in the Munch It sponsored task, focus now shifts to the upcoming Wager presentation, which housemates spent the evening rehearsing. How well the house pulls off that performance could carry its own consequences heading into the next phase of the game.

Attention will also likely stay on the lingering tension between Barry and Bluethopia, along with how Temi Nkem’s apology and Bells’ emotional revelations shape alliances heading into next week’s HoH Challenge, especially given that Barry’s Ultimate Veto Power carries over into next week’s nominations as well.

Bottom Line

A day after his high stakes veto decision, Barry is still navigating the social fallout, while Day 51 revealed just how much emotional strain the game is placing on housemates like Temi Nkem and Bells as the season moves deeper into its final stretch.

US House passes Russia sanctions bill with 100 per cent tariff threat

US House passes Russia sanctions bill with 100 per cent tariff threat

By
Kehinde Victor
-
Trump-Putin Summit

KEY POINTS

  • US House passes the Russia sanctions bill 262 to 159 after Senate approval last month.
  • The legislation would allow President Donald Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on major buyers of Russian energy.
  • The bill targets Russian officials, companies and energy revenues linked to the war in Ukraine.

MAIN STORY

The US House of Representatives has approved legislation imposing further economic pressure on Russia over its war in Ukraine, sending the measure to President Donald Trump for his signature.

The House voted 262 to 159 on Wednesday to pass the bill, which had already cleared the Senate. The legislation, named the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, was championed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham and co authored by Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal.

The measure targets Russian politicians, companies and other parts of the country’s economy, including its energy sector. It also gives Trump authority to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries that remain major purchasers of Russian oil and gas or assist Russia in circumventing energy sanctions.

The proposed tariff measures could affect major Russian energy buyers including China and India, potentially adding another layer to existing US trade relations with the two countries. The rates would be reviewed based on whether affected countries reduce their reliance on Russian energy.

The legislation provides for reassessment of the five largest importers every 180 days. It also contains exemptions for countries whose imports account for less than 15 per cent of Russia’s natural gas exports over a 12 month period and that take steps to reduce their purchases.

Blumenthal welcomed the House vote and credited Graham with driving the legislation before his death.

House Speaker Mike Johnson also backed the measure, saying it would increase pressure on Russia and provide the administration with additional tools to respond to the war.

The legislation had faced opposition from some Democrats, who raised concerns about the extent of the tariff powers it would give the president. Despite the division, 58 House Democrats voted in favour, while seven Republicans voted against it.

The Senate approved the legislation by 86 to 11 in August before it moved to the House.

THE ISSUES

  1. The bill would expand the economic measures available to the US administration against Russia by targeting its energy revenues, officials, companies and networks involved in sanctions evasion.
  2. The proposed tariffs could extend the impact beyond Russia to countries that continue to purchase significant volumes of Russian oil and gas. China and India are among the major buyers that could face the measures.
  3. The legislation gives the president significant discretion over the use of tariffs, which was a major source of concern among some Democratic lawmakers. The House vote therefore combined support for additional pressure on Russia with disagreement over the scope of executive trade powers.
  4. The measure could also affect broader international trade relationships if tariffs are imposed on countries that maintain substantial energy trade with Russia. Its impact will depend on how the administration applies the new powers after enactment.

WHAT’S BEING SAID

“I vowed then, as I have every day for the last few years, that our tribute to the fallen defenders of Ukraine will be the passage of this legislation to help bring an end to Putin’s hideous slaughter and prevent future bloodshed.” – Richard Blumenthal, US Senator

“For too long, Putin has bankrolled this devastating war with money and resources from countries willing to look the other way and today that ends.” – Mike Johnson, US House Speaker

“So today we celebrate, and tomorrow we redouble work on sending Ukraine whatever it needs to prevail.” – Richard Blumenthal, US Senator

WHAT’S NEXT

The bill now goes to President Trump for consideration and signature. If enacted, the administration would have new authority to impose tariffs on major purchasers of Russian energy and countries helping Russia circumvent energy sanctions.

BOTTOM LINE

The House vote advances a sanctions package that would increase pressure on Russia while potentially extending economic consequences to major buyers of its oil and gas. The next step is presidential action on the legislation.

NESREA urges industries to adopt clustering, green financing

Modi marks 76th birthday as India leads 2026 BRICS agenda

By
Kehinde Victor
-

KEY POINTS

  • Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi turns 76 on Thursday.
  • Modi has served as India’s prime minister since 2014 and previously governed Gujarat for 13 years.
  • India’s 2026 BRICS chairship has focused on sustainability, innovation, cooperation and stability.

MAIN STORY

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is marking his 76th birthday on Thursday, nearly 12 years after he first assumed the country’s highest elected executive office.

Born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar, Gujarat, Modi began his organisational career with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) before joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

He obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Delhi in 1978 and later completed a Master of Arts degree in political science at Gujarat University. Delhi University confirmed his BA qualification in 2016.

Modi became active in the BJP’s organisation in Gujarat in the late 1980s and served in senior party positions before becoming Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2001.

He remained in office until 2014, when he became Prime Minister of India. He has since led the country’s government through national programmes including Make in India and Digital India.

Beyond domestic governance, Modi’s tenure has also featured an active role in multilateral groupings, including BRICS, where India is chairing the grouping in 2026.

The 18th BRICS Summit was held in New Delhi from September 12 to 13, bringing together leaders of member countries for discussions on cooperation and development.

During the summit, Modi highlighted initiatives including an integrated system for responding to infectious disease outbreaks, a BRICS network of incubators and a startup fund.

He also highlighted BRICS Connect, an initiative aimed at expanding employment opportunities, alongside other programmes under India’s 2026 chairship.

India’s BRICS chairship has been built around four priorities: sustainability, innovation, cooperation and stability.

The grouping’s 2026 agenda also includes efforts to deepen cooperation among startups, entrepreneurs and incubators across member countries.

Modi’s birthday also comes as his government continues its third consecutive term. He was sworn in for a third term as prime minister in June 2024.

THE ISSUES

  1. Modi’s political career spans organisational work within the RSS and BJP, 13 years as Gujarat chief minister and more than a decade as India’s prime minister.
  2. India’s current BRICS chairship places Modi at the centre of the grouping’s 2026 programme, with the agenda covering innovation, sustainability, cooperation and stability.
  3. The BRICS initiatives highlighted during India’s chairship extend beyond political coordination to areas including public health preparedness, startup development and employment.
  4. Modi’s birthday comes against the backdrop of his third term as prime minister, which began in June 2024.

WHAT’S NEXT

India is expected to continue advancing the priorities of its 2026 BRICS chairship, including cooperation on innovation, public health preparedness, startups and employment.

BOTTOM LINE

Modi turns 76 as he continues his third term as India’s prime minister and leads the country’s 2026 BRICS chairship. His birthday comes against a year focused on expanding India’s role in multilateral cooperation through the grouping.

FG inaugurates 3MW solar hybrid project at Abuja university

Russia resumes ballistic missile attacks on Ukraine

By
Kehinde Victor
-
Putin Fires Back At Biden Over 'Killer' Remark, Says 'It Takes One To Know one'

KEY POINTS

  • Kyiv came under ballistic missile attack early Thursday after several nights without reported strikes.
  • At least 11 people were injured and several buildings were damaged in the capital.
  • Ukraine also launched drone attacks on targets in southern and central Russia.

MAIN STORY

Russia has resumed ballistic missile attacks on Ukraine, with Kyiv among the cities targeted early Thursday after a pause of several nights.

Military linked Telegram channels reported that up to six repurposed Zircon anti ship missiles were fired at the Ukrainian capital, where several heavy explosions were heard.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said the strikes damaged office buildings, a warehouse and a residential building, among other locations. He said at least 11 people were injured.

Media reports also said water supplies were disrupted in some districts east of the Dnipro River following the attacks.

The Ukrainian Air Force said the southern cities of Dnipro and Zaporizhzhya were also targeted with ballistic missiles.

The latest strikes came as Ukraine continued attacks inside Russia using combat drones, according to reports on Telegram channels.

The reported targets included Rostov in southern Russia and Yaroslavl, a city northeast of Moscow.

Russia’s aviation authority, Rosaviatsia, said several airports temporarily restricted operations following the reported drone attacks.

THE ISSUES

  1. The renewed missile attacks bring Kyiv back under direct long range strikes after several nights without reported attacks, with damage and injuries recorded in the capital.
  2. The reported disruption to water supplies adds to the impact of the attacks on civilian infrastructure, particularly in districts east of the Dnipro River.
  3. Ukraine’s reported drone strikes against targets inside Russia show that attacks are continuing on both sides of the border, alongside Russia’s missile campaign against Ukrainian cities.
  4. Temporary restrictions at Russian airports following the reported drone attacks indicate that the security impact of the strikes extended to civilian aviation operations.

WHAT’S NEXT

Russian missile attacks and Ukrainian drone operations are expected to remain a focus as both sides continue military activity against targets in Ukraine and Russia.

BOTTOM LINE

Russia has resumed reported ballistic missile attacks on several Ukrainian cities, while Ukraine has continued drone strikes against targets inside Russia. The latest attacks have resulted in injuries, infrastructure damage and temporary disruption to some services and aviation operations.

NESREA urges industries to adopt clustering, green financing

NESREA urges industries to adopt clustering, green financing

By
Kehinde Victor
-

KEY POINTS

  • NESREA says industrial clustering can reduce emissions and operating costs.
  • Agency calls for greater access to international green financing for cleaner technologies.
  • Experts urge businesses to adopt recycling, reuse, recovery and other circular economy practices.

MAIN STORY

The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has urged industries to adopt industrial clustering and explore green financing as part of efforts to reduce pollution and promote sustainable production.

Mrs Angela Iwobi, South South Zonal Director of NESREA, made the call on Tuesday at a national workshop in Port Harcourt organised by the agency in collaboration with Accappocco Global Services Nigeria Ltd.

The workshop, which brought together companies and stakeholders from six South South states, focused on Health, Safety and Environment, Circular Economy and Environmental Sustainability.

Iwobi said the programme was designed to strengthen engagement between the regulator and industries while improving knowledge and collaboration on environmental practices.

She said NESREA continued to monitor compliance through facility inspections and follow up visits, during which the agency assessed production processes, identified environmental deficiencies and provided technical guidance on corrective measures.

According to her, companies receive written directives and timelines for addressing identified deficiencies after inspections, while subsequent visits are conducted to determine whether the required measures have been implemented.

Iwobi warned that companies that repeatedly fail to comply with environmental requirements could face enforcement action, including the involvement of security agencies.

She also said NESREA monitored sand mining activities in collaboration with relevant government agencies and miners’ associations.

According to her, Environmental Impact Assessment reports and other environmental documentation remained important in determining whether mining operators were managing their activities and waste responsibly.

Beyond regulatory enforcement, Iwobi urged industries to consider shared infrastructure through industrial clusters, particularly for companies with similar production processes.

She said shared facilities, including alternative energy systems, could reduce industries’ dependence on generators and consequently lower emissions.

Iwobi also called for stronger government support to help businesses access international green funds and other financing opportunities.

She said access to such funding could enable industries to invest in cleaner technologies and develop more sustainable production systems.

Prof. John Oyedepo, an expert in Applied Remote Sensing and Geospatial Techniques, urged manufacturers and consumers to incorporate circular economy principles into production and consumption.

He identified recycling, reuse and recovery of materials as important ways to reduce waste and environmental degradation.

Oyedepo said materials discarded as waste by one company could potentially serve as inputs for another, reducing the need for fresh resource extraction and limiting pollution.

He added that circular production could ease pressure on natural resources while supporting more sustainable industrial activity.

Prof. Adewale Taiwo of the Department of Environmental Management and Toxicology, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, also raised concerns about the effect of climate change on aquatic ecosystems.

Taiwo said rising temperatures were changing natural environments and threatening the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems.

The experts called for stronger environmental stewardship, Extended Producer Responsibility and sustainable production practices to reduce pollution, protect natural resources and safeguard public health.

THE ISSUES

  1. Industrial clustering could allow businesses with similar operations to share infrastructure rather than independently providing every supporting facility. Iwobi said shared alternative energy systems could also help reduce reliance on generators and associated emissions.
  2. Access to finance remains relevant to the transition towards cleaner production. NESREA is seeking greater government support for businesses to access international green funds that can finance cleaner technologies and sustainable production systems.
  3. Circular economy practices can reduce the amount of material sent to waste by keeping resources in use for longer. Recycling, reuse and recovery can also reduce demand for new raw materials and the environmental pressure associated with extraction.
  4. Environmental compliance remains a regulatory responsibility for industries and mining operators. NESREA’s inspection process includes identifying deficiencies, issuing directives and returning to facilities to assess implementation, with enforcement measures available for persistent non compliance.
  5. Climate related changes also have implications for natural ecosystems. Rising temperatures are affecting aquatic environments, highlighting the connection between industrial sustainability, environmental protection and public health.

WHAT’S BEING SAID

“Shared infrastructure, including alternative energy systems, could reduce dependence on generators and help lower emissions from industrial activities.” – Angela Iwobi, South South Zonal Director, NESREA

“Materials considered waste by one company could serve as raw materials for another, reducing resource extraction and pollution.” – John Oyedepo, Applied Remote Sensing and Geospatial Techniques expert

WHAT’S NEXT

NESREA is expected to continue facility inspections and follow up visits to monitor compliance with environmental standards, while industries are being encouraged to adopt cleaner technologies and sustainable production practices.

BOTTOM LINE

NESREA is pushing industries to combine stronger environmental compliance with practical measures such as shared infrastructure, green financing and circular production. The agency says these approaches can help reduce pollution while supporting more sustainable industrial activity.

7 AI tools that will save you 10 Hours a week; no tech skills needed

7 AI tools that will save you 10 Hours a week; no tech skills needed

By
Grace Johnson
-

Let me be straight with you. Most articles about AI productivity tools read like a software catalogue. They list 47 apps, describe each one in two vague sentences, and leave you more confused than when you started.

This isn’t that article.

A 2025 Microsoft study found that the average knowledge worker spends 57 percent of their time on communication and coordination tasks, meetings, emails, chat messages, and status updates leaving only 43 percent for the focused, creative work that actually moves the needle. That’s the problem AI tools solve best. Here are seven that will actually give you your time back. 

1. Claude or ChatGPT — Your General-Purpose Thinking Partner

Start here before anywhere else. These all-round AI assistants handle writing, research, brainstorming, summarizing, answering complex questions, and working through ideas making them the foundation of any productive AI setup. Use one of them every single day. Draft emails, summarize documents, outline reports, debug your thinking. Once this becomes a reflex, everything else gets easier. 

2. Notion AI — Your Second Brain

If you take notes, manage projects, or keep a team in sync, Notion AI turns a good tool into a great one. The Business plan at $20 per member per month includes the full AI suite, with Notion Agent handling everything from document generation to task tracking  reducing the administrative overhead that quietly eats your day. Ask it to summarize a 20-page document in bullet points. Watch it do it in eight seconds. 

3. Fireflies or Otter — Never Take Meeting Notes Again

Fireflies is particularly powerful for meeting-heavy roles: it captures everything said, generates summaries, highlights action items, and even notes the sentiment in your transcripts. Set it up once, forget about it, and stop losing half your focus trying to listen and write simultaneously. Meeting notes are officially someone else’s problem now. 

4. Grammarly — Write Better in Half the Time

You already know Grammarly fixes typos. What most people don’t use it for is tone and clarity. Grammarly in 2026 goes well beyond grammar correction; it rewrites sentences for clarity, adjusts tone for different audiences, and suggests structural improvements across long-form documents. For anyone who writes professionally, this is not optional. 

5. Perplexity — Research Without the Rabbit Holes

Perplexity is built specifically for research; it pulls information from current sources across the web, summarizes it clearly, and cites where it came from. Instead of spending 45 minutes opening 12 tabs to understand one topic, ask Perplexity and get a clear, sourced answer in under two minutes. It won’t replace deep research, but it eliminates the shallow-end time drain that comes before it.

6. Gamma — Presentations Without the Pain

Gamma helps you create presentations, reports, and visual documents quickly, turning a rough outline into a polished, structured deck in minutes. If you spend even one hour a week building slides, Gamma pays for itself fast. Give it your key points, choose a style, and watch it do the formatting work you’ve been doing manually for years. 

7. Zapier or Make — Automate the Repetitive Stuff

This one takes 30 minutes to set up and saves hours every week indefinitely. Automation tools like Zapier connect your apps and trigger actions automatically, sending data between tools, filing information, notifying teammates, and handling recurring tasks without any manual input. Think: every new form submission automatically creates a task in your project management tool and sends a confirmation email. One setup. Zero ongoing effort. 

The professionals gaining the most time back in 2026 are not the ones using the most AI tools. They’re the ones who identified their biggest time drains, chose the right tool for each, and committed to using them consistently. 

Start with one. Master it. Then add another. Ten hours a week is not a fantasy; it’s a decision.

FG inaugurates 3MW solar hybrid project at Abuja university

By
Kehinde Victor
-
40 MW Kesses Solar Facility Becomes Operational In Kenya

KEY POINTS

  • Federal Government commissions a 3MW captive solar hybrid project at Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja.
  • Project was delivered under Phase II of the Energising Education Programme.
  • Facility includes a renewable energy workshop and training centre, with a female STEM component.

MAIN STORY

The Federal Government has commissioned a 3MW captive solar hybrid power project at Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, as part of efforts to improve electricity supply for teaching, research and other academic activities.

The project was delivered under Phase II of the Energising Education Programme (EEP) and implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) through the World Bank funded Nigeria Electrification Project.

Inaugurating the facility in Abuja on Wednesday, Minister of Power, Mr Joseph Tegbe, said the investment demonstrated how the country’s energy transition could support human capital development.

“There is perhaps no better place to demonstrate the practical value of Nigeria’s energy transition than a university,” he said.

Tegbe said universities required dependable electricity to support learning, research, healthcare and technology, adding that the new facility would provide a more reliable energy base for teaching and research.

He said commissioning the project marked the beginning of the facility’s operational phase rather than the end of the investment.

The minister also linked the long term sustainability of renewable energy projects to the recently established Renewable Asset Management Company (RAMCO), which is expected to strengthen the management and performance of renewable energy assets.

REA Managing Director, Mr Abba Aliyu, said the EEP had evolved from simply delivering electricity infrastructure to demonstrating how reliable power could support education and human capital development.

He said REA had, through the programme, delivered solar infrastructure to 22 federal universities and three affiliated teaching hospitals, providing more than 100MW of clean energy.

According to Aliyu, the projects had reached more than 600,000 students and 50,000 academic and administrative staff nationwide.

He said the agency’s experience with projects of this scale had also highlighted the importance of adequate planning in delivering sustainable infrastructure.

The Head of the Nigeria Electrification Project, Mr Olufemi Akinyelure, said the value of the project extended beyond electricity generation to the opportunities that dependable power could create for education and development.

He said investment in universities could support innovation and strengthen the country’s future.

The university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Hakeem Fawehinmi, described the facility as an investment in the institution’s academic mission.

He said dependable electricity was essential for effective teaching, meaningful research, laboratory operations and digital services, particularly as the university continued to grow.

Fawehinmi assured the project’s partners that the university would properly utilise and maintain the facility.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power, Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe, said the project demonstrated the link between energy policy, implementation and improvements in public services.

He said the legislature would continue to provide the legislative framework and oversight required to support investment in the power sector and promote accountability.

Beyond power supply, the project includes a renewable energy workshop and training centre designed to provide practical learning and skills development in renewable energy technologies.

The EEP also includes a female STEM component, giving students practical exposure to renewable energy and opportunities within the sector.

THE ISSUES

  1. Reliable electricity is central to the operation of universities because teaching, research, laboratories and digital services all depend on consistent power. The solar hybrid facility is therefore intended to address an operational need beyond simply adding renewable generation capacity.
  2. The project also links energy infrastructure with skills development. The renewable energy workshop and training centre provide a practical component that can expose students to technologies used in the sector.
  3. Long term performance remains important after commissioning. The Federal Government has linked renewable asset management to RAMCO, while the university has undertaken to properly use and maintain the facility.
  4. The female STEM component gives the education programme an additional skills development focus by providing students with practical exposure to renewable energy technologies and sector opportunities.

WHAT’S BEING SAID

“There is perhaps no better place to demonstrate the practical value of Nigeria’s energy transition than a university.” – Joseph Tegbe, Minister of Power

“Not simply to put solar panels on campuses, but to create the conditions for students to learn, lecturers to teach, researchers to work, laboratories to function and universities to operate with greater certainty.” – Abba Aliyu, Managing Director, REA

“A university such as ours cannot teach effectively, conduct meaningful research, operate its laboratories, sustain digital services or even provide the conducive environment required for learning and innovation without dependable power supply.” – Hakeem Fawehinmi, Vice Chancellor

WHAT’S NEXT

The university is expected to operate and maintain the facility as it becomes part of its electricity supply infrastructure.

The renewable energy workshop and training centre will also support practical learning and skills development, while the female STEM component will provide students with exposure to renewable energy technologies.

BOTTOM LINE

The 3MW solar hybrid project adds renewable power infrastructure to Yakubu Gowon University while linking electricity supply with practical training in clean energy technologies. Its long term value will depend on effective operation, maintenance and continued use of the skills development components.

PAHO to join global push for stronger pandemic preparedness

Expert seeks new strategy to cut Nigeria’s broadband deployment costs

By
Kehinde Victor
-

KEY POINTS

  • Nigeria has about 68,000km of terrestrial fibre against an estimated requirement of 120,000km.
  • High Right of Way charges, multiple approvals, power shortages and insecurity are raising deployment costs.
  • WTES Projects wants shared infrastructure, spectrum reforms and greater investment in renewable energy and local data centres.

MAIN STORY

An ICT infrastructure expert, Mr Chidi Ajuzie, has called for a new digital infrastructure strategy to accelerate broadband expansion and make network deployment more attractive to investors.

Ajuzie, Chief Operating Officer of WTES Projects, made the call on Wednesday in Lagos at the Telecom Sector Sustainability Forum 7.0, organised by Business Remarks.

The forum, themed “Rethinking Nigeria’s Digital Infrastructure Strategy to Attract Investment and Drive Innovation”, focused on the infrastructure gaps limiting the expansion of Nigeria’s digital economy.

Ajuzie said Nigeria’s policy approach needed to move away from short term revenue generation towards measures that encouraged sustained investment in broadband, fibre networks, data centres and emerging technologies.

He said the country had about 195 million active mobile lines but still faced substantial gaps in high speed broadband and supporting digital infrastructure.

According to him, Nigeria has about 68,000km of terrestrial fibre, while around 120,000km would be required to support nationwide connectivity.

Ajuzie identified Right of Way charges, multiple regulatory approvals, unreliable electricity and insecurity as major barriers to further infrastructure deployment.

He said RoW charges varied significantly across states, ranging from zero to N4,500 per linear metre, and could account for up to half of the capital budget for major fibre projects.

The expert therefore urged governments to view RoW as an economic multiplier rather than an immediate revenue source, while working towards harmonised charges and approval procedures across the country.

He also proposed an open access wholesale infrastructure model under which operators could lease capacity on a shared national fibre network instead of constructing overlapping routes.

According to him, this would reduce duplication while allowing service providers to compete on pricing, service quality and innovation.

Ajuzie cited India’s BharatNet initiative as an example of a model in which public investment supports passive fibre infrastructure that private operators can access on non discriminatory terms.

He also called for changes to spectrum management, arguing that high upfront spectrum payments could divert funds that operators would otherwise use for physical network expansion.

He proposed converting part of spectrum payments into legally binding network expansion credits linked to measurable infrastructure deployment.

Ajuzie further called for faster allocation of suitable spectrum bands, including 3.5GHz and 700MHz, to support broader 5G coverage.

Power costs were another area of concern. He said electricity and diesel accounted for about 45 per cent of telecom site operating expenditure and advocated greater use of renewable energy to reduce the burden.

He acknowledged that renewable energy equipment at telecom sites could face vandalism and theft, making stronger security and monitoring necessary.

On data infrastructure, Ajuzie said Nigeria needed to increase live data centre capacity from less than 100 megawatts to about 450 megawatts by 2030.

He said expanding local hosting capacity would reduce reliance on overseas infrastructure, improve latency and keep more technology related revenue within the Nigerian economy.

The expert also advocated an integrated digital public infrastructure system linking digital identity, payments and secure data exchange. He said greater interoperability among government databases covering identity, banking, telecommunications, police and voter records could reduce transaction barriers, provided adequate privacy and security safeguards were maintained.

Ajuzie further recommended establishing additional subsea cable landing points outside Lagos to reduce the impact of international cable disruptions.

He said greater diversity in cable landings, stronger terrestrial links and regional data centres would improve Nigeria’s digital resilience.

THE ISSUES

  1. Fibre deployment remains a major infrastructure gap, with the country’s existing terrestrial fibre network significantly below the estimated requirement for nationwide connectivity. Closing the gap will require lower deployment costs and stronger incentives for long term investment.
  2. RoW charges can materially affect the economics of fibre projects, particularly where operators face different fees and approval procedures across states. Harmonisation could make network expansion more predictable for investors.
  3. A shared infrastructure model could reduce the duplication created when several operators build parallel fibre routes. Under the proposed approach, operators would share infrastructure while competing through the services delivered over it.
  4. Spectrum costs also affect how operators allocate capital. Linking part of spectrum payments to measurable network expansion would redirect some investment towards physical infrastructure, according to the proposal.
  5. Energy remains a significant operating cost for telecom infrastructure. Greater use of renewable power could reduce dependence on diesel, although protection of equipment from vandalism and theft would remain necessary.
  6. Nigeria’s digital resilience also depends on infrastructure beyond telecommunications networks. Additional subsea cable landing points, local data centres and stronger terrestrial connections could reduce the country’s exposure to disruptions affecting individual infrastructure routes.

WHAT’S BEING SAID

“RoW should be treated as an economic multiplier rather than an immediate source of revenue.” – Chidi Ajuzie, WTES Projects

WHAT’S NEXT

Ajuzie urged the government, regulators, telecom operators and investors to develop a coordinated infrastructure roadmap covering the next five years.

He said coordinated reforms could increase the digital economy’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP from about 15 per cent to 30 per cent by 2030 and create more than two million direct technical and operational jobs across the digital economy.

BOTTOM LINE

Nigeria’s broadband expansion faces infrastructure, regulatory, energy and security constraints that continue to raise deployment costs. Ajuzie is calling for coordinated reforms that prioritise long term infrastructure investment and wider digital access.

New TB vaccines expected to become available from 2029

New TB vaccines expected to become available from 2029

By
Kehinde Victor
-
'The Big Catch-up': WHO, Others Partner To Vaccinate Children

KEY POINTS

  • Next generation TB vaccines are expected to become available from 2029.
  • The vaccines could prevent an estimated 7.3 million deaths by 2050.
  • Gavi projects up to $135 billion in economic benefits for low and middle income countries.

MAIN STORY

The global response to tuberculosis could enter a new phase from 2029, with next generation vaccines expected to become available after more than a century of reliance on a single licensed vaccine.

The projection was highlighted by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, through information shared by the global TB community on its official social media platform.

According to the update, the new vaccines could save an estimated 7.3 million lives by 2050, while generating as much as $135 billion in economic benefits for low and middle income countries over the same period.

The development would mark a significant shift in TB prevention, as the world has relied on a single licensed vaccine for more than 100 years.

The projected impact also points to the importance of moving promising vaccine candidates from development to widespread use, particularly in countries carrying the greatest burden of TB.

Tuberculosis remains a major infectious disease threat globally, with low and middle income countries accounting for most cases and deaths.

Beyond preventing infections, the anticipated vaccines could strengthen efforts to reduce transmission and support international efforts to end the TB epidemic.

THE ISSUES

  1. The expected arrival of new vaccines would expand the tools available for TB prevention after more than a century of dependence on one licensed vaccine.
  2. The projected 7.3 million lives saved by 2050 indicates the potential public health impact of improving protection against TB, particularly in countries where the disease burden is highest.
  3. Access will be as important as vaccine development. The projected benefits depend on innovative vaccines reaching populations in low and middle income countries where TB continues to cause a large share of global illness and deaths.
  4. The potential economic gain also highlights the wider cost of TB. Reducing infections and deaths could help countries avoid some of the economic losses associated with prolonged disease and its impact on communities.

WHAT’S NEXT

The focus will shift towards completing development of the next generation vaccines and ensuring they can reach populations that face the highest TB burden once they become available.

BOTTOM LINE

The anticipated arrival of next generation TB vaccines from 2029 could broaden global prevention efforts after more than 100 years of reliance on one licensed vaccine. Their projected health and economic impact will depend in part on equitable access in high burden countries.

NLNG urges gas industry to treat methane as lost revenue

PAHO to join global push for stronger pandemic preparedness

By
Kehinde Victor
-

KEY POINTS

  • PAHO will participate in the second UN High Level Meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response on September 25.
  • The agency says sustained investment in surveillance, laboratories and resilient health systems remains critical.
  • PAHO reported more than 2.1 million surveillance signals analysed across the Americas in 2025.

MAIN STORY

The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) will join global efforts to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness and response during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The organisation said the Second High Level Meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response, scheduled for September 25, would provide an opportunity for countries to assess progress since the first meeting in 2023 and renew political commitment to preventing future pandemics.

PAHO said preparedness remained a critical priority for countries in the Americas as they continued to confront emerging and re emerging health threats while working to build stronger health systems and improve health security.

The discussions will take place amid ongoing health emergencies, economic pressures, climate related threats and declining development assistance. Countries are also expected to consider how preparedness efforts can be sustained amid tighter global financing conditions.

PAHO Director, Dr Jarbas Barbosa, will participate in several high level events during UNGA week, where he is expected to highlight the experience and priorities of the Americas, including the need for sustained investment, strong health systems and greater regional and international cooperation.

The meeting comes as countries advance implementation of the World Health Organisation Pandemic Agreement, strengthen the International Health Regulations and pursue other international commitments on pandemic prevention and response.

According to PAHO, many of the systems required for pandemic preparedness are also essential to routine healthcare. These include disease surveillance, laboratory networks, primary healthcare, infection prevention and control, and resilient health systems.

Barbosa said preparedness could not be developed only when an emergency had already begun.

“Pandemic prevention and preparedness cannot be built only when an emergency occurs. It requires sustained investment in the health systems, laboratories, surveillance and public health capacities that countries need every day,” he said.

He added that the Americas had experience that could contribute to wider global health security efforts, particularly through regional cooperation and stronger national capacity.

The organisation said the COVID 19 pandemic demonstrated the wider consequences of health emergencies, which can disrupt healthcare systems, economies and societies while reversing progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.

Five years after the pandemic, PAHO said countries had stronger tools and frameworks for responding to health emergencies, although major challenges remained. It identified sustained political commitment, investment in resilient health systems, trust in science and effective international cooperation as key elements of global health security.

THE ISSUES

  1. Pandemic preparedness increasingly depends on health systems that can function effectively before, during and after emergencies. Surveillance networks, laboratories, primary healthcare and infection control therefore remain central to both routine health protection and emergency response.
  2. Financing is becoming a major concern as countries face economic pressures and declining development assistance. The September meeting is expected to examine how preparedness gains can be maintained despite a more constrained global financing environment.
  3. Access to vaccines, medicines and diagnostic tools remains part of pandemic security. PAHO said it is working with countries to reduce vulnerabilities in regional supplies and expand local production of essential health technologies.
  4. Regional cooperation can strengthen countries’ ability to detect and respond to health threats. PAHO’s experience shows how shared surveillance and coordinated emergency mechanisms can support national responses to emerging risks.

WHAT’S BEING SAID

“Pandemic prevention and preparedness cannot be built only when an emergency occurs. It requires sustained investment in the health systems, laboratories, surveillance and public health capacities that countries need every day.” – Dr Jarbas Barbosa, PAHO Director

“The Americas has important experience to share, including the value of regional cooperation and the importance of strengthening national capacities as part of global health security.” – Dr Jarbas Barbosa, PAHO Director

WHAT’S NEXT

The second UN High Level Meeting on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response will take place on September 25, with countries expected to review progress since 2023 and reinforce international commitments on pandemic preparedness.

PAHO Director Jarbas Barbosa will also participate in high level UNGA events focused on health security, investment and cooperation.

BOTTOM LINE

PAHO is pushing for pandemic preparedness to remain a sustained health system priority rather than an emergency response measure. The organisation’s participation at UNGA will focus on maintaining investment, strengthening national capacity and improving international cooperation.

Guterres urges global cooperation amid era of deep uncertainty

Guterres urges global cooperation amid era of deep uncertainty

By
Kehinde Victor
-
"255m Full-time Workers Lost Their Jobs In 2020" - UN

KEY POINTS

  • UN Secretary General António Guterres says the world has entered an era of deep uncertainty.
  • He identified runaway AI, climate change and widening inequalities as three existential threats.
  • Guterres called for de escalation and diplomacy over conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine.
  • He urged governments to strengthen international cooperation on AI safety and other global challenges.
  • The UN General Assembly will debate the Middle East and Ukraine conflicts during the high level session.

MAIN STORY

UN Secretary General António Guterres has called on governments to strengthen international cooperation as the world faces what he described as an era of deep uncertainty.

Guterres made the call while speaking to reporters ahead of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly General Debate in New York.

He identified runaway artificial intelligence, the climate crisis and deepening inequalities as three existential threats requiring coordinated international action.

The UN chief also renewed his calls for a two State solution to the Israeli Palestinian conflict and a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, urging leaders to pursue diplomacy and dialogue rather than further escalation.

Guterres acknowledged the need to reform international institutions, including the United Nations, but said institutional changes should not weaken the principles underpinning the organisation.

“Updating our structures can never mean abandoning our principles – it must mean applying those principles with even greater determination,” he said.

He urged UN member states to uphold the UN Charter, defend international law, protect human rights, invest in sustainable development and support peace efforts.

On the Middle East, Guterres expressed concern over the situation in Gaza and called for immediate de escalation.

“At this crucial moment in the Middle East, de-escalation must be priority one, priority two and priority three,” he said.

He also called on parties involved in the regional conflict to respect navigational rights in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al Mandab and protect civilians.

Guterres said Israel’s annexation of the West Bank “must stop” and highlighted the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza.

On Ukraine, he said more than four years after Russia’s full scale invasion, there was still no clear end to the conflict.

He called for an immediate ceasefire as the first step towards what he described as a just, lasting and comprehensive peace.

The General Assembly is expected to consider both conflicts during its debates next week.

Guterres devoted a significant portion of his remarks to the rapid development of artificial intelligence, acknowledging its potential to contribute to advances in health, education and climate action.

However, he warned that AI development was moving faster than human understanding of its risks.

He said governments had a responsibility to protect citizens from those risks and stressed that cooperation between countries would be necessary, particularly amid concerns over an emerging AI arms race between the United States and China.

Guterres said isolated voluntary pauses in AI development would not be sufficient to address global safety concerns.

“The world cannot afford a race to the bottom on AI safety,” he said.

He pointed to the UN founded Independent International Scientific Panel on AI, which he said would support global discussions by providing evidence on the opportunities and risks associated with the technology.

Guterres called for safeguards that would build trust and ensure AI systems are safe, transparent and accountable while keeping human dignity at the centre of their development.

“International cooperation is more necessary than ever,” he said.

THE ISSUES

  1. Guterres’ warning reflects a broad set of global challenges that cut across national borders, with AI, climate change and inequality identified as threats requiring coordinated responses rather than isolated national action.
  2. The conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine remain major concerns for the UN, with Guterres placing emphasis on ceasefires, de escalation and diplomatic engagement as routes towards longer term settlements.
  3. The rapid development of AI presents a separate governance challenge because technological advances are occurring faster than understanding of their potential risks. The UN is seeking international safeguards covering safety, transparency and accountability.
  4. Reform of global institutions is also on the agenda, but Guterres maintains that changes to their structures should preserve existing commitments to peace, human rights and international law.

WHAT’S BEING SAID

“Updating our structures can never mean abandoning our principles – it must mean applying those principles with even greater determination.” – António Guterres, UN Secretary General

“At this crucial moment in the Middle East, de-escalation must be priority one, priority two and priority three.” – António Guterres, UN Secretary General

“The world cannot afford a race to the bottom on AI safety.” – António Guterres, UN Secretary General

WHAT’S NEXT

The UN General Assembly’s high level General Debate is scheduled to begin on Sept. 22, with member states expected to discuss the conflicts

NPERA sets 30, 60, 90-Day targets to drive port sector reform

NLNG urges gas industry to treat methane as lost revenue

By
Kehinde Victor
-

KEY POINTS

  • NLNG says methane emissions represent lost gas, energy and revenue for producers.
  • The company is urging gas operators to make methane reduction a commercial priority.
  • NLNG says its methane reduction projects are expected to deliver both emissions cuts and financial returns.
  • The company has achieved Level 5 methane reporting under the OGMP 2.0 framework.
  • NLNG says its Train 7 project will incorporate methane reduction measures into its design.

MAIN STORY

Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Ltd. has called on the global gas industry to treat methane reduction as a business priority, arguing that reducing emissions can also protect gas volumes and revenue.

The company made the call at the ongoing Gastech 2026 Exhibition and Conference in Bangkok, Thailand, where its Managing Director, Adeleye Falade, participated in a panel on methane abatement across natural gas supply chains.

In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, NLNG General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Sophia Horsfall, said Falade urged gas producers to focus on the commercial value of preventing methane losses rather than viewing emissions reduction solely as a cost.

“Every tonne emitted is lost product. Lost revenue and lost energy; gas we could have sold,” he said.

Falade said NLNG measures methane losses and uses the resulting data to determine where investments in leak prevention and gas recovery should be directed.

He also stressed the importance of independent verification in ensuring that emissions reports are credible and that interventions produce measurable results.

The managing director cited NLNG’s new boil off gas compressor and start ups gas recovery project as examples of investments aimed at reducing methane emissions.

He said each project was expected to reduce methane emissions by about 10 to 15 per cent while also generating positive projected net present values.

“Each project that cut our methane also pays for themselves. The same discipline that reduces methane also improves asset reliability and plant efficiency,” he said.

Falade said accurate measurement enabled NLNG to identify where methane was being lost, direct resources to appropriate interventions and evaluate their effectiveness.

He said gas producers in developing economies could build internationally trusted emissions reporting systems by investing in monitoring infrastructure and independent verification.

NLNG has received Gold Standard recognition under the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 framework and became the first company in Africa to achieve Level 5 methane emissions reporting, according to Falade.

He said the company’s measurement, reporting and verification system had been independently assured by DNV.

NLNG’s methane management programme includes optical gas imaging, a structured Leak Detection and Repair programme and continuous monitoring. The company is also deploying real time dashboards across its plant and vessels to improve monitoring and response.

Falade said the company’s experience showed that credible methane measurement was achievable in Africa when supported by adequate commitment and systems.

He added that methane reduction was being incorporated into the design of NLNG’s Train 7 project, which is expected to increase the company’s production capacity from 22 million to 30 million tonnes annually.

At the national level, Falade linked NLNG’s efforts to monetise gas that would otherwise have been flared with the decline in Nigeria’s gas flaring rate.

“The rate had fallen from more than 65 per cent to below 20 per cent. The conversion of wasted gas into marketable products is a commercial case for emissions abatement,” he said.

On energy access and climate action, Falade said NLNG’s operations supported Nigeria’s target of achieving net zero emissions by 2060 and eliminating routine gas flaring by 2030.

He said emissions reduction should advance alongside efforts to meet the energy requirements of households and businesses in developing economies.

“Developing economies cannot be asked to choose between economic development and emissions reduction. Both must progress together,” he said.

THE ISSUES

  1. Methane represents a commercial loss when gas escapes before it can be captured and sold. NLNG’s position is that investment in detection, recovery and prevention can therefore serve both environmental and financial objectives.
  2. Reliable measurement is central to determining where methane is being lost and whether reduction projects are working. NLNG is combining monitoring systems with independent verification to strengthen the credibility of its emissions reporting.
  3. The company is linking methane management to operational efficiency, arguing that projects designed to reduce emissions can also improve asset reliability and plant performance.
  4. The wider challenge for developing economies is balancing emissions reduction with energy supply and economic activity. NLNG says both objectives need to progress together rather than being treated as competing priorities.

WHAT’S BEING SAID

“Every tonne emitted is lost product. Lost revenue and lost energy; gas we could have sold.” – Adeleye Falade, NLNG Managing Director

“The rate had fallen from more than 65 per cent to below 20 per cent. The conversion of wasted gas into marketable products is a commercial case for emissions abatement.” – Adeleye Falade, NLNG Managing Director

“Developing economies cannot be asked to choose between economic development and emissions reduction. Both must progress together.” – Adeleye Falade, NLNG Managing Director

WHAT’S NEXT

NLNG plans to continue incorporating methane reduction into its operations and future projects, including Train 7. The company is also expanding monitoring through real time dashboards across its plant and vessels.

BOTTOM LINE

NLNG is positioning methane reduction as both an environmental responsibility and a commercial opportunity, with gas recovery potentially translating into lower emissions and reduced product losses.

Thursday Chronicles: The 14-Hour Kara Bridge Traffic Standstill

Thursday Chronicles: The 14-Hour Kara Bridge Traffic Standstill

By
Omotoke Ayomide
-

Hello, my fellow Steering-Wheel Economists, Overnight-In-Transit Veterans, and Road-Block Forensics. Welcome back to our weekly sanctuary! Today is Thursday, September 17, 2026. If you spent Tuesday night or Wednesday morning sitting stationary on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway—watching your phone battery drop to 1% while a container-laden truck decided to lie down for an unscheduled afternoon nap on Kara Bridge—pull up an ergonomic plastic chair. You are in the safest, most empathetic room on the internet.

Forget routine economic statistics, social media app exits, or office boundary debates; this week, the single most universal, chaotic, and emotionally exhausting survival story uniting millions of commuters across Lagos and Ogun State is The Great Mid-September Gridlock Meltdown.

When the Federal Ministry of Works kicked off the essential two-week repair exercise on Kara Bridge on September 8 to replace deteriorating expansion joints, everyone knew there would be a “slight delay”. But nobody prepared us for what happened when a single 40-foot container trailer tipped over on Tuesday afternoon. 

What followed was a 14-hour temporal anomaly that turned a 20-minute commute into an overnight camping trip! 

Let’s break down the explicit details, hilarious street realities, and survival physics behind our national traffic catastrophe. 

Kara Bridge to the Rest of the World
If you travel between Ikeja, Berger, Magboro, Mowe, or the mainland, you know that the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is the single most vital economic artery of the country.

When the container truck fell across the construction-restricted lanes at Kara Bridge, it created a domino effect that spilled backwards like a row of falling books. By Tuesday evening, the tailback didn’t just stop at Berger; it stretched through Long Bridge, past Otedola Underpass, into Gbagada, and all the way back to Iyana-Oworo and the Third Mainland Bridge!

The street commentary across X and TikTok overnight was pure, unadulterated survival humor.

I left Apapa on Tuesday night at 10:00 PM heading out of Lagos. By 6:00 AM on Wednesday, I was still staring at the exact same suya spot at Berger! At one point around 3:00 AM, the guy in the SUV in front of me brought out a pillow, reclined his seat, and slept like he was in a 5-star hotel. In Kara Bridge traffic, you don’t just commute—you temporarily relocate your residence!

While the fell container was the initial trigger, the real villain of the week wasn’t the truck—it was the “Counter-Flow Taskforce” (also known as impatient drivers taking ‘One-Way’). 

The moment the main carriageway slowed down, a few “smart” drivers made u-turns and drove against oncoming traffic, occupying three out of the four available lanes heading in the opposite direction!

When emergency towing trucks finally removed the crashed trailer, nobody could move anyway because the rescue path was completely blocked by hundreds of cars facing the wrong direction! It was a classic demonstration of street logic eating itself. 

Where regular commuters saw absolute misery, commercial bus drivers and street hawkers activated their real-time surge pricing: 
The Bus Fare Explosion: Danfo fares from Berger to Mowe spiked overnight from ₦800 to an eye-watering ₦3,500 – ₦4,000! 
The Traffic Gala Index: Sausage rolls, sachet water, and power banks became the highest-traded commodities between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM. 
The “Trekathon” Guild: Thousands of stranded workers abandoned commercial buses at 7Up and walked on foot across the entire length of the Long Bridge to reach Ogun State!

Commute Survival Protocols for the Week
Do NOT Take One-Way: Driving against traffic during a bottleneck only locks the entire grid permanently. Stay in your lane and allow traffic managers (LASTMA, FRSC, TRACE) to clear the choke point. 
Pack Emergency Supplies: Until the Kara Bridge repairs wrap up on September 22, never hit the expressway without a power bank, two bottles of water, and a light snack. 
Leverage Hybrid / Off-Peak Hours: If your employer allows remote work, this is the week to use it! If you must commute, move during off-peak windows (10:00 AM to 2:00 PM). 

See you next Thursday—hopefully with completed bridge repairs, disciplined lanes, dry feet, and zero timeline drama!

Thursday Chronicles: The 10-second attention span

NPERA sets 30, 60, 90-Day targets to drive port sector reform

By
Kehinde Victor
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The Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) has unveiled 30, 60 and 90-day targets as part of measures to guide its transition from the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) and drive reforms aimed at improving efficiency, reducing costs and enhancing the competitiveness of Nigeria’s port sector.

The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency, (NPERA), Dr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima, disclosed this when a delegation of the Congress of Nigerian Maritime Media Practitioners (CONMMEP) visited the agency to seek clarification on its new mandate, ongoing transition and priorities for the maritime sector.

Ukeyima said the Nigerian Port Economy Regulatory Agency Act 2026, which repealed the Nigerian Shippers’ Council Act, Cap N133 of 2004, established NPERA as a new regulatory institution with a broader mandate over the port economy.

He stressed that the development was not merely a change of name or institutional identity, but a fundamental restructuring of port economic regulation in Nigeria.

According to him, while the former Nigerian Shippers’ Council was principally established to protect the interests of shippers, including negotiating freight rates and port charges and promoting the development of shippers’ associations nationwide, NPERA has been assigned a broader regulatory responsibility covering the port economy.

The NPERA boss explained that following the concession of Nigerian ports in 2006, concerns emerged over the roles of government agencies operating simultaneously as regulators and service providers.

He said the development eventually resulted in the appointment of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council as the interim economic regulator of the ports in 2014, pending the enactment of legislation to give the regulatory function a statutory foundation.

Ukeyima said the passage of the NPERA Act had now provided that legal framework, adding that the agency had developed a transition timetable covering the first 30, 60 and 90 days, as well as 100 days, one year and beyond.

He assured that stakeholders would be carried along throughout the transition, while major policy directions would be guided by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.

NPA to Take Over Inland Dry Ports

The NPERA DG disclosed that one of the immediate directives from the Minister was for the Shippers’ Council to hand over the inland dry ports it had been promoting across the country to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

He said discussions were already ongoing with the NPA Managing Director to ensure the implementation of the ministerial directive.

Ukeyima further disclosed that Section 51 of the new law provided for the preservation of existing contracts and unresolved matters, as well as the protection of the offices and employment of existing appointees and workers during the transition.

He added that one of NPERA’s immediate priorities was to complete the transition from the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to the new agency within the first six months of implementation of the Act.

This, he said, would be undertaken alongside the development and issuance of regulations required to operationalise the new regulatory framework.

Port Efficiency, Cost Reduction Top Agenda

The NPERA chief executive identified port efficiency as one of the agency’s major priorities, noting that several challenges confronting the sector were rooted in operational inefficiencies.

He said the presence of multiple government agencies within the port environment often resulted in excessive human interaction, contrary to the global trend towards digitalisation and automated processes designed to minimise human contact.

According to him, such inefficiencies increase the cost of doing business and weaken the competitiveness of Nigerian ports relative to those of neighbouring countries.

He also identified the high cost of port infrastructure and services as a major factor affecting Nigeria’s ability to compete effectively in international trade.

Ukeyima said the settlement of disputes and effective management of cases within the maritime sector were equally critical, given their implications for the overall cost and efficiency of doing business.

He said Nigerians would ultimately judge the impact of the new law by the extent to which they experienced tangible improvements in port efficiency, cost reduction and competitiveness.

Higher Penalties to Strengthen Deterrence

The NPERA DG said the new legislation had also established a stronger regime of deterrence through enhanced penalties for infractions.

He noted that some penalties under the repealed law were as low as N300 and N500, amounts he described as inadequate to deter violations in the modern maritime economy.

Under the new framework, he said, penalties for certain infractions could range from N500,000 to N20 million.

Ukeyima stressed that the objective of the higher penalties was not primarily punishment but deterrence against activities capable of undermining trade facilitation and the efficient functioning of the port economy.

FG Woos Investment for Port Modernisation

The NPERA chief executive also cited ongoing efforts to modernise Nigeria’s port infrastructure as part of broader developments in the maritime sector.

He said the Federal Government was actively pursuing foreign direct investment and other funding opportunities to accelerate port development, adding that some modernisation projects had reached advanced stages and were already before the Federal Executive Council.

He further disclosed that funds had been approved to support port modernisation.

According to him, the developments reflected the government’s commitment to law reform, institutional strengthening and the deployment of the maritime sector as a catalyst for economic diversification.

Ukeyima said the implementation of the NPERA Act would benefit not only port operators and other maritime stakeholders but also Nigerian consumers, given the critical role of ports and associated infrastructure in the movement of goods into and within the country.

CONMMEP Seeks Regular Media Engagement

Earlier, the President of CONMMEP, Udo Onyeka, said the delegation’s visit was aimed at strengthening the relationship between the maritime media and NPERA while gaining a clearer understanding of the agency’s mandate, reforms, priorities and vision.

Onyeka said the efficiency of Nigerian ports, the cost of moving goods, ease of doing business, competitiveness of Nigerian enterprises and growth of non-oil exports were closely linked to the effectiveness of institutions regulating the maritime sector.

He said maritime journalists had a responsibility to keep the public adequately informed while providing regulators and other stakeholders with a platform to explain their policies, achievements and challenges.

He identified shipping and logistics costs, port congestion, tariffs and charges, demurrage, protection of shippers, port digitalisation, the National Single Window, non-oil export development, regional maritime connectivity, maritime security and the blue economy as issues requiring sustained media attention.

The CONMMEP president called for regular briefings, access to credible data, technical explanations of policies and increased interaction between officials and journalists to improve the quality of maritime reporting and reduce misinformation.

He, however, stressed that the relationship between NPERA and the media should be founded on access, transparency, professionalism and mutual respect, rather than the media serving as a public relations platform for the agency.

Onyeka said CONMMEP expected the engagement to develop into a sustained relationship rather than remain a one-off meeting, with journalists continuing to scrutinise developments in the port economy while providing regulators and other stakeholders with opportunities to explain their policies and actions.

CBN says financial inclusion must improve Nigerians’ financial wellbeing

CBN says financial inclusion must improve Nigerians’ financial wellbeing

By
Kehinde Victor
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KEY POINTS

  • CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso says financial inclusion must translate into better financial wellbeing.
  • Financial inclusion rose to 74 per cent in 2023 from 64 per cent in 2020, according to the CBN.
  • Rural communities and women still face significant gaps, while credit, insurance and pension products remain underused.
  • CBN is developing NFIS 4.0 and plans geospatial mapping of financial access points and underserved areas.
  • Moniepoint called for more use of gender disaggregated data to improve financing for women entrepreneurs.

MAIN STORY

The Central Bank of Nigeria has said expanding access to financial services is no longer enough, stressing the need for financial inclusion to produce measurable improvements in Nigerians’ financial wellbeing.

CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso stated this at the 2026 Access to Financial Services in Nigeria survey in Abuja on Wednesday. He was represented by the Director, Consumer Protection and Financial Inclusion at the CBN, Dr Aisha Olatinwo.

Cardoso described the survey by Enhancing Financial Innovation and Access as an accountability tool for tracking participation, usage, barriers and the effects of financial services on Nigerians.

He said the evidence generated through the survey was important for policy design, market development, consumer protection and the targeting of reforms.

According to Cardoso, financial inclusion reached 74 per cent in the 2023 survey, compared with 64 per cent in 2020, while financial exclusion declined to 26 per cent.

He attributed the improvement to the expansion of digital payments and agent banking, better identity infrastructure, financial education and regulatory reforms. However, he said the gains had not been evenly distributed, with rural communities and women still experiencing significant gaps.

He also noted that financial products that could strengthen long term financial resilience, particularly credit, insurance and pensions, remained underused.

“The policy challenge is now to ensure meaningful usage, affordability, reliability, safety and trust,” he said.

Cardoso linked the broader financial inclusion challenge to economic conditions, saying persistent inflation reduced purchasing power, weakened savings and increased borrowing costs, particularly for low income Nigerians.

He also cited exchange rate volatility as a constraint on business planning, investment and the cost of essential inputs, arguing that price stability and confidence were necessary for sustainable financial inclusion.

The CBN governor said the bank had refocused its core mandate on monetary and price stability since 2024, while strengthening liquidity management, monetary policy operations, data analysis and communication.

He said the bank was also moving towards an inflation targeting framework centred on transparency, accountability and price stability.

Beyond monetary policy, Cardoso said financial system resilience remained part of the CBN’s reform agenda, including its multi sector recapitalisation programme.

He said stronger financial institutions, effective supervision and reliable payment infrastructure were necessary to protect depositors and support innovation.

On financial inclusion policy, Cardoso said work had begun on the National Financial Inclusion Strategy 4.0 following the review of NFIS 3.0.

The new strategy, he said, would focus on data driven and accountable inclusion, with consumer protection and digital safety forming part of the framework.

He also disclosed plans for geospatial mapping to establish a national repository of financial access points and underserved locations. The data, he said, would help the CBN improve supervision, policy design and targeted investment.

The CBN governor said the bank was also strengthening support for women owned micro, small and medium enterprises through gender inclusive finance initiatives.

He cited the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Code and the Women Financial Inclusion Dashboard as tools for improving gender disaggregated data and identifying gaps in access to finance.

Cardoso said BVN enrolment had reached 67.8 million by December 2025, while the Shared Agent Network Expansion Facility had supported more than two million agents.

He also highlighted a nationwide financial literacy programme designed to help Nigerians make informed financial decisions and protect themselves against fraud.

According to him, the CBN merged its consumer protection and financial inclusion functions in 2025 to improve redress for underserved bank customers.

He said the complaints management system was being upgraded into a unified tracking platform capable of providing real time visibility into banking complaints and their resolution.

The CBN governor urged banks, fintechs, payment providers, telecommunications companies and development partners to strengthen collaboration around financial inclusion.

He said the objective was to build a financial system that enables Nigerians to save securely, make payments efficiently and access responsible credit.

At the event, Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Moniepoint, Edidiong Uwemakpan, also called for greater use of data to improve financial access, particularly for women entrepreneurs.

Uwemakpan said gender disaggregated data could help financial institutions better understand women owned businesses and design products suited to their needs.

She also said digital transaction records and cash flow assessments could provide alternatives to traditional collateral requirements when assessing businesses for credit.

According to her, 62 per cent of female entrepreneurs surveyed through Moniepoint’s inclusive lending programmes accessed their first formal business loan through the platform.

She said trust remained essential to meaningful financial inclusion and added that Moniepoint would continue working with EFInA and regulators to develop products that address collateral barriers, improve cyber hygiene and support entrepreneurs.

THE ISSUES

  1. Rising financial inclusion does not automatically mean Nigerians are benefiting equally from financial services. The CBN’s figures show broader participation, but rural communities and women continue to face access gaps, while some products that support long term financial resilience remain underused.
  2. Economic stability remains closely connected to financial inclusion. Inflation can reduce household purchasing power and savings, while higher credit costs and exchange rate volatility can make it harder for businesses and individuals to plan and invest.
  3. Data is becoming more important to how financial institutions identify underserved groups and design products. The planned geospatial mapping and gender focused data initiatives are intended to give policymakers and providers a clearer picture of where access gaps exist and who is affected.
  4. Consumer trust is another part of the inclusion challenge. The CBN’s focus on financial literacy, digital safety and a unified complaints tracking system is intended to strengthen confidence and improve the ability of customers to obtain redress when problems occur.

WHAT’S BEING SAID

“The policy challenge is now to ensure meaningful usage, affordability, reliability, safety and trust.” – Olayemi Cardoso

“83 per cent of Moniepoint users reported improved quality of life, while 85 per cent expressed greater confidence achieving financial goals.” – Edidiong Uwemakpan

“Moniepoint will continue to work with EFInA and the regulators to translate the 2026 survey findings into inclusive financial products.” – Edidiong Uwemakpan

WHAT’S NEXT

The CBN is expected to continue work on NFIS 4.0, including the planned geospatial mapping of financial access points and underserved areas. The bank will also continue its financial literacy, consumer protection and women focused inclusion initiatives.

BOTTOM LINE

Nigeria has recorded wider participation in formal financial services, but the CBN says the next phase must focus on whether those services are affordable, reliable, safe and useful enough to improve financial wellbeing.

Bolt sees 92% spike in driver registrations after uber exit

Kosovo ex president Thaci sentenced to 25 years for war crimes

By
Kehinde Victor
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KEY POINTS

  • Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for war crimes.
  • The court found Thaci and three co defendants responsible for multiple war crimes involving hundreds of people.
  • The verdicts are subject to appeal.
  • Three other former Kosovo Liberation Army leaders received sentences ranging from 13 to 25 years.
  • The verdict triggered protests and criticism in Kosovo.

MAIN STORY

Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci has been sentenced to 25 years in prison by the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague after being found criminally responsible for war crimes committed during the Kosovo conflict.

The court said its Trial Panel found Thaci and three co defendants responsible for arbitrary detention involving 385 people, cruel treatment involving 49 people, torture involving 303 people and the murder of 96 people.

The verdicts are not final and can be appealed.

Thaci, 58, had previously maintained that he was “completely innocent”. He showed no visible emotion as presiding judge Charles Smith read the verdict.

Prosecutors had sought a 45 year prison sentence for Thaci over crimes committed during the late 1990s.

The three year trial involved nearly 300 witnesses and 155 victims. Prosecutors alleged that Thaci and his co defendants were part of the leadership of the Kosovo Liberation Army, which fought Serbian forces during the conflict.

The judge stressed that the proceedings were focused on the individual criminal responsibility of the defendants and not on the objectives or methods of the KLA.

Kadri Veseli was sentenced to 18 years, while Rexhep Selimi received 13 years and Jakup Krasniqi was sentenced to 25 years.

The court did not take several other allegations, including crimes against humanity, into account in the verdict because it found the evidence insufficient.

Thaci held several senior political positions in Kosovo between 2008 and 2020, serving as prime minister, foreign minister and president. He resigned as president to face the proceedings in The Hague.

All four defendants had held senior positions in the KLA and later occupied prominent political positions in Kosovo.

The KLA fought from 1998 to 1999 for the independence of predominantly Albanian Kosovo from Serbia. The conflict ended after NATO intervention and the withdrawal of Serbian forces.

The Kosovo Specialist Chambers were established in 2015 as a separate judicial institution within Kosovo’s legal system, with international judges and prosecutors. The court operates from The Hague for security reasons.

The verdict drew strong reactions in Kosovo, where thousands of people followed the proceedings on public screens.

Kosovo Foreign Minister Glauk Konjufca criticised the decision, while the opposition Democratic Party of Kosovo, which Thaci founded after the war, also condemned the verdict.

The party said the allegations and evidence against the former KLA leaders had been promoted through Serbian propaganda to criminalise the KLA.

Protests were also held in The Hague, where several hundred Kosovars demonstrated against the trial and verdicts. Dutch news agency ANP reported that some protesters threw stones at security forces before police used tear gas to disperse them.

THE ISSUES

  1. The verdict establishes prison sentences for four former KLA leaders over war crimes involving detention, cruel treatment, torture and murder. However, the convictions are not final because the defendants can appeal.
  2. The court distinguished between the KLA’s broader wartime objectives and the individual conduct of the defendants. The judge said the proceedings were concerned specifically with individual criminal responsibility.
  3. The case has significant political resonance in Kosovo because Thaci and the other defendants moved from senior positions in the KLA to prominent roles in the country’s political leadership after the war.
  4. The ruling has also exposed divisions over how the Kosovo conflict should be remembered and judged, with supporters of the former KLA leaders rejecting the allegations while the court assessed evidence concerning specific alleged crimes.

WHAT’S BEING SAID

“It is a sad, unjust, and undeserved decision.” – Glauk Konjufca, Kosovo Foreign Minister

“A devastating verdict for Kosovo and for our war of liberation.” – Glauk Konjufca, Kosovo Foreign Minister

“The individual criminal responsibility of the defendants.” – Charles Smith, presiding judge

WHAT’S NEXT

The verdicts can be appealed, meaning the legal proceedings against Thaci and his three co defendants are not yet concluded.

BOTTOM LINE

Thaci and three former KLA leaders have received lengthy prison sentences after the Hague court found them responsible for war crimes committed during the Kosovo conflict. The convictions remain subject to appeal.

EU plans social media restrictions for children under 13

EU plans social media restrictions for children under 13

By
Kehinde Victor
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KEY POINTS

  • European Commission plans to restrict social media access for children below 13.
  • Children aged 13 and 14 could use only parent or guardian managed accounts.
  • Supervised accounts would have limited features and a proposed daily one hour limit.
  • Personal social media accounts would be permitted from age 15 under the proposal.
  • EU institutions will review and amend the proposal before any final legislation.

MAIN STORY

The European Commission is proposing new age based restrictions on social media use by children, including a ban on access for those below 13.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the plan on Wednesday, saying children aged 13 and 14 would only be able to use supervised accounts created and managed by parents or guardians.

The proposed supervised accounts would have restricted features and limit social media use to one hour a day, according to von der Leyen.

Children would be able to create personal accounts from age 15, while platforms would be expected to introduce additional safety measures for users between 15 and 18.

Among the proposed safeguards are restrictions on algorithms that promote addictive patterns of use, as well as features such as infinite scrolling and automatic video playback.

Major social media platforms already generally set 13 as the minimum age for users under their terms of service. However, EU regulators have criticised platforms for inadequate enforcement of those age limits.

The European Commission is expected to publish further details of the proposed legislation on Thursday.

The proposal would then go through the EU legislative process, with the European Parliament and member states able to examine and amend it. Reaching a final agreement could take months or years.

Several EU countries have already pushed for stricter age limits on social media. France, Greece and Austria are among those supporting legislation, although some other member states remain cautious.

France has separately planned restrictions on social media use by people below 15.

EU countries currently have the ability to impose restrictions on children’s access to social media, but enforcement largely rests with parents. Mandatory age verification requirements for major online platforms would require legislation at EU level.

Von der Leyen has repeatedly raised concerns about the effect of social media and other digital services on children and called for stronger safeguards.

She told EU lawmakers that young Europeans currently spend between four and six hours a day on screens.

According to her, children are increasingly exposed to digital feeds designed to keep them engaged for long periods, raising concerns that excessive screen use could deprive them of important aspects of childhood.

THE ISSUES

  1. The proposed age limits would create a common EU framework for restricting children’s social media access, moving beyond the current system in which individual countries can impose restrictions but enforcement largely depends on parents.
  2. Age verification would become a key regulatory issue because major platforms already state minimum ages in their terms but have faced criticism over enforcement. EU legislation would be required for mandatory verification requirements across major platforms.
  3. The proposal also targets platform design, not only age. Restrictions on addictive recommendation systems, infinite scrolling and automatic video playback would apply to younger users as part of the proposed safety by design approach.
  4. The proposal is not yet law. It must be considered by the European Parliament and EU member states, which can amend the measures before any final agreement is reached.

WHAT’S BEING SAID

“Young Europeans currently spend between four and six hours a day on screens.” – Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President

WHAT’S NEXT

The European Commission is expected to release further details of the proposal on Thursday. The European Parliament and EU member states will then examine and negotiate the legislation.

BOTTOM LINE

The European Commission is seeking EU wide rules that would restrict social media access by age and require stronger safety measures for younger users. The proposal still faces a potentially lengthy legislative process before becoming law.

One million worshippers expected at Calabar gospel crusade
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