The Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has exceeded its 2025 borrowing target by 55.6 per cent, following the accumulation of ₦17.36 trillion in new loans from both domestic and external sources within the first ten months of the year.
This figure surpasses the prorated borrowing benchmark of ₦10.9 trillion contained in the 2025 Appropriation Act, and already exceeds the total borrowing ceiling of ₦13.08 trillion approved for the whole fiscal year by ₦4.28 trillion.
Latest figures obtained from the Debt Management Office (DMO) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) indicate that as at October 2025, the Federal Government had secured ₦15.8 trillion domestically and ₦1.56 trillion externally within the first half of the year alone.
In addition, the government plans to raise a further $2.35 billion (₦3.38 trillion) through a Eurobond issuance, a move that will push total borrowing commitments to approximately ₦20.74 trillion. Analysts project that the total figure could reach as high as ₦23 trillion before year end — nearly ₦10 trillion above the legislated limit.
Economic experts warn that the borrowing trajectory, combined with Nigeria’s weak revenue performance, could deepen the risk of a fiscal debt trap, spook investors, and tighten credit availability for the private sector — with possible knock-on effects on employment, growth, and household welfare.
Nigeria’s 2025 budget outlines total expenditure of ₦54.99 trillion against anticipated revenue of ₦41.91 trillion, translating into a deficit of ₦13.08 trillion, largely expected to be financed through borrowing.
However, analysts say the latest trend reflects fiscal indiscipline that mirrors patterns seen in previous administrations. They further stress that aggressive domestic borrowing continues to squeeze private investment while undermining the IMF-backed fiscal consolidation programme — aimed at reducing Nigeria’s debt-service-to-revenue ratio, currently hovering at about 83 per cent.
Financial and market analysts, including Andrew Uviase of Ecovis OUC, David Adonri of Highcap Securities, Tunde Abidoye of FBNQuest Merchant Bank and public analyst Clifford Egbomeade, trace the overshoot to unrealistic revenue projections, weak oil output, rising debt service obligations and persistent high government expenditure.
They have called on the Tinubu administration to prioritise non-oil revenue expansion, curb wasteful spending, and pursue structural fiscal reforms capable of restoring investor confidence and safeguarding long-term debt sustainability.
The Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA) has empowered 37 newly trained beneficiaries under the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, providing start-up tools, seed capital, and business support to enhance household income and strengthen family stability.
The event which held on Sunday, 9 November 2025, at the Customs Training College, Ikeja, was themed “Empowering Women, Strengthening Families.” It was graced by the National President of COWA, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi; senior Customs officers and key stakeholders.
In her keynote address, Mrs. Adeniyi described the empowerment of women in uniformed families as a strategic contribution to national development. She emphasised that women must no longer remain economically dependent in a rapidly changing global economy.
According to her, COWA is deliberately shifting its empowerment model from traditional vocations such as tailoring and catering toward more sustainable, climate-responsive ventures like recycling, waste conversion, and other green-economy enterprises.
“When you empower a woman, you empower a nation. We want our women to run real enterprises that generate real income, not hobby-based skills. The world has moved into sustainability and climate-positive innovation, and we must not be left behind”, Mrs. Adeniyi stated.
She also unveiled the Green Brother Sustainability Initiative, COWA’s flagship project designed to equip Customs officers’ wives with practical skills to convert household waste into marketable products, establish recycling clusters, and participate in circular-economy value chains.
Mrs. Adeniyi announced that the programme would also establish Eco Hubs for women, beginning in Abuja, with 10 additional border-based centres to be rolled out across the country. She further highlighted ongoing environmental restoration activities, including the planting of 73 trees at the Leila border last month, with similar initiatives planned for Seme and Idiroko.
“COWA is not doing this for show. These tools are not souvenirs, they are instruments of livelihood. We are building women who create value, who keep stable homes and women who train others. When you uplift a family, you uplift a nation”, she added.
Acting COWA Chairperson FOU, Zone ‘A’ Dr. Juliet Eya, applauded the national leadership for translating vision into measurable action. She disclosed that additional grants would be extended to women already running businesses, as well as to widows and retired members, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Host of the event, Comptroller FOU ‘A’ Mohammed Shuaibu, reaffirmed the Unit’s commitment to sustained empowerment initiatives, describing the effort as an investment in the home front of officers who serve the nation.
“Strengthening the home front strengthens the Service. Empowered wives become entrepreneurs and that strengthens both the household and the nation.” He said.
The exchange rate between the Naira and the US dollar, according to the data released on the FMDQ Security Exchange, the official forex trading portal, showed that the naira closed at 1440.00 per $1 on Monday, November 10th , 2025. The naira traded as high as 1434.00 to the dollar at the investors and exporters (I&E) window on Sunday.
The exchange rate for a dollar to naira at Lagos Parallel Market (Black Market) players sell a dollar for ₦1460 and buy at ₦1440 on Saturday 8th November, 2025, according to sources at Bureau De Change (BDC).
Please note that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not recognize the parallel market (black market), as it has directed individuals who want to engage in Forex to approach their respective banks.
Dollar to Naira Black Market Rate Today
Dollar to Naira (USD to NGN)
Black Market Exchange Rate Today
Selling Rate
₦1460
Buying Rate
₦1440
Dollar to Naira CBN Rate Today
Dollar to Naira (USD to NGN)
CBN Rate Today
Highest Rate
₦1438
Lowest Rate
₦1434
Please note that the rates you buy or sell forex may be different from what is captured in this article because prices vary.
The Nigerian Exchange (NGX) closed last week in negative territory as sustained sell pressure wiped out ₦2.83 trillion from investors’ holdings, reducing total market capitalization to ₦94.99 trillion.
The All-Share Index (ASI) dropped by 2.99% to 149,524.81 points amid profit-taking and caution triggered by geopolitical tensions surrounding the U.S.–Nigeria diplomatic standoff.
According to Cowry Asset Management, the loss represents a 2.99% contraction in investors’ wealth over five trading sessions, though the market still maintains an impressive year-to-date gain of 45.27%.
Market breadth heavily favoured the bears, with 20 gainers against 75 losers, indicating widespread negative sentiment. Trading activity also slowed, with total deals down 8.82% to 145,518, while traded volume and value plunged by 52.19% and 26.4% to 3.58 billion units and ₦107 billion, respectively.
Sectoral performance was broadly weak, led by the banking sector’s 3.85% decline following selloffs in major tier-one stocks. The Insurance Index fell by 7.56%, while Consumer Goods and Oil & Gas indices declined 2.54% and 4.80%, respectively. Industrial Goods and Commodities also recorded mild drops of 1.09% and 1.63%.
Despite the overall bearish sentiment, selective buying supported a few gainers, including NCR (+20.9%), EUNISELL (+20.2%), UNIONDICON (+9.9%), HONYFLOUR (+9.5%), and UPDC (+6.8%).
On the flip side, SOVRENINS (-28.2%), CILEASING (-20.2%), SKY AVN (-19%), BERGER (-17.4%), and INTENEGINS (-17%) topped the losers’ chart amid weak retail participation.
Analysts said the market may remain cautious in the coming weeks as investors continue profit-taking while monitoring inflation trends, exchange rate stability, and corporate earnings updates.
Cowry Asset advised investors to focus on fundamentally strong and defensive stocks that can withstand short-term volatility, noting that underlying market fundamentals remain relatively stable despite temporary pullbacks.
Foreign currency inflows into Nigeria rose sharply in October 2025, reaching $5.15 billion — the highest in five months — as renewed investor confidence spurred capital movement into the economy, data from FMDQ revealed.
The October figure represented a 62.2% increase compared to September’s $3.18 billion inflow, underscoring growing foreign participation in Nigeria’s financial markets, particularly through the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) Open Market Operations (OMO) auctions.
MarketForces Africa reported that the apex bank conducted six OMO auctions during the month, raising over ₦7 trillion from both local deposit money banks and foreign investors.
Analysts said elevated yields on OMO instruments continued to attract offshore investors, strengthening U.S. dollar inflows and boosting the naira’s stability in the FX market.
Cordros Securities Limited, in a market note, explained that the increase in inflows reflected improved sentiment among both domestic and foreign investors amid expectations of monetary policy easing across global markets.
Foreign inflows accounted for 64.5% of total receipts, surging 89.7% month-on-month to $3.32 billion, driven by a rebound in Foreign Portfolio Investments (FPIs) — up 120.7% — and higher inflows from corporate entities.
Meanwhile, domestic inflows expanded 28.4% due to a sharp 370.6% jump in individual contributions and a 30.8% rise from other corporates. Exporters’ inflows also climbed 7.2%, though CBN inflows fell by 59.6% due to reduced intervention.
Cordros projected that total FX inflows will remain robust in the near term, supported by attractive carry-trade opportunities and sustained investor confidence in Nigeria’s improving market outlook.
Ethereum, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency, staged a strong comeback on Sunday, gaining over 4% in 24 hours after a week of heavy sell pressure that pushed its market capitalization below $400 billion.
Trading volume spiked to $26.4 billion during intraday sessions as ETHUSD rallied past $420 billion in market value, reversing last week’s 9% loss. Ethereum’s 4.28% gain outpaced Bitcoin’s 1.6% rise and the broader crypto market’s 2.18% uptick.
Analysts attributed the rally to renewed investor confidence following bullish exchange-traded fund (ETF) inflows and an improvement in global liquidity conditions.
Institutional demand strengthened as Ethereum recorded about $3 billion in new weekly inflows, signaling sustained participation from large investors.
The rebound also followed the announcement of a strategic partnership between Mastercard and MetaMask to launch a self-custody crypto payment card. The new solution enables Ethereum users to spend their digital assets at more than 150 million merchants worldwide, bridging the gap between decentralized finance and traditional banking.
Market observers described the collaboration as a milestone in digital finance integration, potentially accelerating global crypto adoption and stablecoin transactions.
Ethereum’s rebound gained further traction amid broader optimism about fiscal policy developments, including speculation surrounding new economic stimulus measures in the U.S.
The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology in Ogun State has called for increased investment in the science and technology sector. He emphasized the role of innovation in driving the state’s future economic growth.
Speaking at a recent event, the commissioner stressed that the world is entering a new era defined by scientific discovery and tech innovation. He noted that states which embrace these trends are succeeding globally.
He highlighted the need for funding and support for research, laboratories, and technical training programs. He added that investing in science and technology would enhance competitiveness, create jobs, and strengthen local industries.
According to the commissioner, government, educational institutions, and private firms must collaborate to unlock opportunities in areas such as artificial intelligence, green energy, and digital manufacturing. He said that younger Nigerians stand to benefit most if skill-development pathways are aligned with future jobs.
He confirmed that the state has begun strategic planning for science and technology infrastructure and will seek partnerships with global innovation hubs and investors.
Nigeria’s fixed-income market experienced a surge in investor activity last week as appetite for Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) bonds intensified, leading to a notable decline in benchmark yields.
Analysts observed that investors, seeking stability amid heightened volatility in both local and global equities, redirected capital toward longer-tenured government debt instruments.
Trading in the secondary market reflected a bullish tone as yields compressed by approximately 12 basis points week-on-week, closing at an average of 15.77%, according to Cowry Asset Limited.
Market participants pointed to increasing demand for mid-to-long-term bonds following signals from recent treasury bills auctions, suggesting potential repricing ahead of the November FGN bonds sale.
Investment firms reported that bonds maturing in 2027, 2028, and 2029 saw yields drop to between 15.42% and 15.83%, while those expiring in 2032, 2033, and 2034 traded around 15.70%, 15.68%, and 15.4%, respectively, AIICO Capital Limited noted.
Although activity at the long end — including the 2035, 2042, 2045, 2050, and 2053 maturities — remained subdued, market analysts said the trend signals a growing preference for duration exposure.
They attributed the rally to expectations of yield stability, capital gains, and sustained system liquidity supported by the Central Bank of Nigeria.
“Given strong participation from institutional investors, particularly pension funds and asset managers, we expect the bullish momentum in the bond market to persist,” analysts explained.
They added that investors are positioning strategically ahead of the upcoming primary auction, capitalizing on attractive yields and expectations of moderating inflationary pressures.
RusselSmith Nigeria Limited, an ISO-certified provider of innovative asset integrity and advanced manufacturing solutions for critical industries in Africa, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) to strengthen local production capability for defence equipment and components.
Through this partnership, DICON and RusselSmith will advance the local development and production of industrial and military-grade additively manufactured products for critical defence systems. This also supports the implementation of the DICON Act 2023 and aligns with the Federal Government’s directive to promote indigenous technology and industrial participation in national security infrastructure.
It is a significant milestone in Nigeria’s pursuit of industrial self-sufficiency and defence modernisation. By combining RusselSmith’s expertise in industrial additive manufacturing with DICON’s established role as the nation’s defence production authority, the partnership will enable local manufacturing of high-performance parts, tools, and assemblies used in military applications.
The collaboration will also focus on developing the local ecosystem for advanced manufacturing materials, including the production of metal powders and filaments that meet the stringent quality standards required for defence and aerospace operations.
Speaking at the event, Maj.-Gen. Babatunde Alaya, Director-General of DICON, emphasised the importance of the DICON Act 2023 in enabling such strategic partnerships:
“This strategic alliance with RusselSmith is a monumental step in the actualisation of the Military Industrial Complex. It is the direct result of the legal framework provided by the DICON Act 2023, and I must thank the President, Bola Tinubu, for assenting to this pivotal legislation.”
The Director-General also expressed appreciation to the Minister of Defence, the Minister of State for Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Service Chiefs for their continuous guidance and unwavering support to DICON, which facilitated its achievements.
“My full support is behind this initiative as it promises to be a game-changer for our national security architecture,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Kayode Adeleke, CEO of RusselSmith, reaffirmed RusselSmith’s commitment to supporting the partnership, stating:
“We are proud to partner with DICON on this forward-looking initiative that strengthens Nigeria’s defence industrial base. This partnership will build local capacity for high-value manufacturing and enhance our ability to deliver quality, precision, and reliability through the use of advanced 3D manufacturing technologies.
Together, we are laying the foundation for a new era of indigenous defence innovation and industrial capability, taking a practical step towards sustainable innovation that benefits the country’s broader industrial ecosystem.”
By integrating additive manufacturing into defence production, the partnership will reduce supply chain vulnerabilities, enable on-demand fabrication, and create opportunities for research, local content growth, and regional collaboration.
Speaking to the press, Maria Sambo, Public Relations Officer of DICON, noted:
“In a significant stride towards technological self-reliance and the realisation of Nigeria’s Military Industrial Complex (MIC), DICON and Russel Smith have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The strategic move is to advance the local production of additive materials for the manufacturing of critical defence equipment.”
She added that the collaboration “marks the direct implementation of the DICON Act 2023,” explaining that it empowers DICON to engage with local expertise to strengthen national security through indigenous production.
“At the heart of this MoU is the adoption of Additive Manufacturing (AM), also known as industrial 3D manufacturing, which will revolutionise DICON’s production capabilities,” Sambo stated. “Additive manufacturing technologies enable rapid, on-demand, and localised fabrication of complex components using high-performance materials such as metal alloys and advanced polymers.”
The signing ceremony, which took place on October 20, 2025, was attended by senior executives from both organisations and reflects a shared commitment to developing indigenous capacity in the defence and manufacturing sectors.
About RusselSmith
RusselSmith is an ISO-certified company providing innovative solutions that strengthen operational resilience and drive sustainable development across critical sectors in Africa. With a focus on asset integrity and advanced manufacturing, RusselSmith helps businesses improve uptime, reliability, and supply chain efficiency. To learn more, visit: www.russelsmithgroup.com
About DICON
The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) is the country’s premier defence manufacturing organisation, mandated to produce military and paramilitary hardware and support national defence through research, design, and local production. Established in 1964, DICON continues to play a vital role in advancing Nigeria’s military industrial capacity and supporting the country’s defence modernisation goals.
The U.S. aviation sector is experiencing major disruptions amid the ongoing federal government shutdown. On Sunday, authorities recorded more than 2,800 cancellations and over 10,000 delays nationwide.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated flight reductions across 40 major airports. Indicators show staffing shortages among air traffic controllers continue to impair operations.
Travelers and businesses are now facing uncertainty ahead of the peak holiday season. Some logistics and cargo firms warn that the delays and cancellations could ripple through global supply chains.
The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has assured Nigerian retirees that all outstanding gratuities and arrears will be settled by December 2025.
PenCom’s Director-General, Omolola Oloworaran, announced the commitment at a workshop in Owerri organised alongside the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC). She said the recently approved ₦758 billion bond will be converted into cash to facilitate immediate payment of retirees’ dues.
She further stated that President Bola Tinubu’s approval of the bond demonstrates the government’s dedication to improving the welfare of retired workers. The proposed benefit adjustment aims to raise pension coverage from 75 percent to 100 percent of final salary.
Retirees represented by the Nigeria Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme Sector have welcomed the announcement and thanked the government for recent payments up to October. They urged prompt action to keep the momentum going.
For the broader pension industry, the pledge marks a significant milestone in delivering long-promised reforms. But full success will depend on the timely conversion of the bond, transparent implementation and ongoing oversight.
Nigerian music star Davido recently revealed his ambition to break into acting. He made the disclosure at the 14th Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) in Lagos
During a panel discussion, Davido said he wants to play roles that surprise his audience. He mentioned an idea of portraying a taxi driver — a character far removed from his public persona. He also confirmed plans to produce films in the coming years.
Davido explained that his interest spans acting and production. He said he plans to create movies and series based on real-life African stories. He noted that many global musicians have moved into film and television and he wants to follow that path.
For Nigeria’s creative economy, Davido’s move signals growing convergence between music and film. Artists are increasingly leveraging their brands to build multi-platform entertainment businesses. This trend creates opportunities for investment in talent, production studios and global content distribution.
Observers say the transition from music to film can boost job creation and export potential. If high-profile musicians like Davido succeed in acting and production, they may attract foreign partnerships and help scale the Nigerian film industry.
If you’ve ever followed Nigeria’s economic cycles closely, you’ll know one thing: forecasts often make great headlines but rarely match reality. And that’s precisely what Bismarck Rewane hammered home in the LBS November 2025 Report — judgment, not prediction, is what truly matters.
The report, presented at the Lagos Business School Breakfast Session, pulls no punches. It starts with a provocative assertion: “When the unknown unknowns are more than the known unknowns, investor paralysis prevails.” In other words, forecasting in today’s Nigeria is a high-stakes guessing game.
But beyond the witty quotes and cautionary tone, the LBS November 2025 Report paints a picture of cautious optimism — one rooted in data, tempered by experience, and sprinkled with humor that only Rewane can deliver.
A Year That Proved Economists Wrong
Remember when analysts swore that the naira would hit ₦3,000 per dollar? Or that the Dangote Refinery wouldn’t operate until 2031? None of that happened. According to the LBS November 2025 Report, those major forecasts “never materialized.” The naira, in fact, stabilized around ₦1,460–₦1,500 in Q4 2025, a surprising turn that even seasoned forecasters didn’t see coming.
And that’s the essence of this year’s economic narrative — unpredictability. Global events like the Trump administration’s tariffs and the CPC designation rattled markets, yet Nigeria’s economy held its ground. Inflation, which once seemed unstoppable, moderated to 17.5% in October and is projected to settle around 16.9% by December 2025, as detailed in the LBS report.
The takeaway? Predictions are fragile. Judgment — especially sound economic judgment — is priceless.
Why Judgment Matters More Than Models
Forecasts depend on data; judgment depends on interpretation. The LBS November 2025 Report makes a sharp distinction between analysts and soothsayers. Analysts rely on models, evidence, and probabilities. Soothsayers? They rely on vibes.
Rewane’s point is clear: no amount of economic modeling can account for the imponderables — those “unknown unknowns” — that shape outcomes. COVID-19, the oil price crash, and even global wars remind us that economies are cyclical and shocks are inevitable.
So, what’s the way forward? As the report notes, we must “assign probabilities and appropriate weights” to forecasts, then layer them with judgment. In practical terms, that means making decisions with both the data and a healthy dose of skepticism.
It’s not just a lesson for policymakers — investors and executives, too, must learn to think probabilistically. Should you invest when inflation’s falling but rates remain high? Should you hold naira assets when the exchange rate seems steady but oil prices are shaky? These are judgment calls — not predictions.
Nigeria’s Scorecard: Not Perfect, But Promising
Numbers don’t lie, but they do tell complicated stories. The LBS November 2025 Report offers a comprehensive macroeconomic scorecard showing both missed targets and bright spots.
Take GDP growth: the report places Q4 2025 growth at 4.06%, slightly below target but still impressive considering the volatility of oil markets and global inflation pressures. Inflation, though high, is easing. External reserves climbed above $44 billion, signaling improved forex stability.
And perhaps most reassuring for the markets — the stock market remains bullish. By October 2025, the NGX All-Share Index rose over 35% year-to-date, driven by strong corporate earnings and renewed investor confidence. The LBS report projects an additional 8% uptick by year-end, suggesting momentum will spill into 2026.
Yes, challenges persist — sluggish oil output, rigid monetary policy, and fiscal strain. But the tone of the LBS presentation is unmistakable: this isn’t a crisis; it’s a recalibration.
Inflation, Rates, and the Judgment Call
Here’s where it gets interesting. The LBS November 2025 Report warns that while inflation is easing, the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) — stuck at 26.75% — may not be cut soon. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) seems cautious, balancing between fighting inflation and supporting growth.
Now, here’s the judgment angle again. A textbook economist might say: “Cut rates to stimulate the economy.” But judgment says otherwise. With the U.S. Federal Reserve likely holding rates steady, an aggressive Nigerian rate cut could trigger capital flight and weaken the naira.
Rewane’s team estimates only a 15% chance of an MPR cut in November, noting that the smarter play may be patience — wait for disinflation to hold before easing policy. That’s not forecasting; that’s discernment.
The Market’s Mood — Still Hopeful
Markets are emotional creatures. The LBS November 2025 Report captures this perfectly: while volatility will “come back, but not much,” Nigeria’s fundamentals look better than the headlines suggest. Oil prices, though softer, remain above $60 per barrel. Investor sentiment is improving, and non-oil sectors like entertainment, tech, and manufacturing are gaining steam.
One of the most striking parts of the report is its note on Nigeria’s entertainment and media sector — projected to grow 7.2% CAGR through 2029, outpacing Kenya and South Africa. It’s a reminder that while we obsess over exchange rates, the creative economy quietly thrives.
Even “Dirty December,” as the report humorously calls it, is now a legitimate GDP driver, with Lagos alone expected to generate over $70 million in tourism-related spending this year. Who would’ve predicted that?
Beyond Predictions: The Real Lesson
The LBS November 2025 Report isn’t just a collection of charts and forecasts. It’s a wake-up call. It tells us that while models can guide us, judgment must lead us.
The final words of the presentation sum it up beautifully: “Macroeconomics is about judgment, not prediction.” In a world full of noise, that’s wisdom worth holding onto.
For Nigeria’s policymakers, entrepreneurs, and investors heading into 2026, this means one thing — think beyond the data. Question assumptions. Adjust to surprises. And when forecasts fail, let experience, context, and good judgment steer the course.
You can read the full analysis and data breakdown in the LBS November 2025 Report here — a document every serious investor should have bookmarked this season.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the construction of official residences for top judicial officers and the rollout of major water projects across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Nyesom Wike, Minister of the FCT, announced the approvals after a council meeting chaired by Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. He said the housing contracts will serve the President of the Court of Appeal, the President of the Industrial Court, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court and the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court.
In addition, the council authorised new water-supply projects for satellite towns, including Karu, Karshi, Orozo and Bwari. These projects are part of the phase following the previously inaugurated Greater Abuja Water Supply scheme.
The FCT Minister also revealed that the FEC ratified a fresh contract for infrastructure development in Maitama II, covering more than 786 hectares of land previously allocated without infrastructure.
For the construction and real-estate sectors, this combined approval signals fresh opportunities. The judges’ residences will require design, construction and furnishings, while the water-supply infrastructure creates requirements for engineering firms, equipment providers and service contractors.
These approvals may also contribute to investment flows and job creation in the FCT region. If managed well, the projects could enhance urban development, improve institutional working conditions and attract private-sector partners. However, prompt execution and transparent procurement will be crucial to translate approval into visible results.
American rapper Kendrick Lamar has emerged as the most nominated artist for the 2026 Grammy Awards, leading this year’s list with multiple nods across major categories including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best Rap Performance.
The nominations, announced by the Recording Academy, highlight a strong representation of African talent. Nigerian artists Davido, Burna Boy, and Ayra Starr were also nominated for Best African Music Performance, reflecting the growing global recognition of Afrobeats.
In a statement, the Recording Academy noted that the nominations reflect “a year of exceptional music and diversity,” with artists from different continents shaping the global soundscape. The inclusion of African musicians in several categories further underscores the continent’s rising influence in the international music industry.
Kendrick Lamar’s nominations reaffirm his long-standing dominance in hip-hop and his consistent critical acclaim. His latest album has been praised for its lyrical depth and social commentary, earning recognition from both fans and peers.
Meanwhile, the increased presence of African artists has continued to redefine global music collaborations and streaming trends. Platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music report consistent growth in Afrobeats streams, indicating a widening audience across Europe and the United States.
As anticipation builds for the award ceremony, many in the global music community see the 2026 Grammys as a milestone year for diversity and cross-continental artistry.
Pension committees in Ogun State have commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for implementing reforms aimed at improving the welfare of retirees and strengthening the state’s pension system.
The committees, drawn from different local governments, said the new measures have streamlined payment structures and enhanced transparency in pension administration. They described the reforms as a major step toward ensuring that retired workers receive their benefits without delay.
During a recent review meeting, members of the committees highlighted that consistent pension payments have restored confidence among retirees. They also applauded the state government’s commitment to clearing outstanding arrears and modernising pension management through digital processes.
Governor Abiodun, in response, reaffirmed his administration’s pledge to protect the rights of senior citizens. He noted that pension reforms remain central to his government’s broader economic agenda, which focuses on accountability, social welfare, and public service efficiency.
Observers believe Ogun State’s pension reforms could serve as a model for other states looking to balance fiscal responsibility with social protection.
The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has announced that Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang will deliver its 2025 Annual Film Lecture. The event is scheduled for December 3 at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
Titled “From Policy to Power – The Future of Africa’s Cinematic Influence”, the lecture will examine film‐policy history and the evolving role of cinema in Africa’s cultural and economic landscape.
NFC’s Managing Director, Ali Nuhu, noted that the lecture series, founded in 2006, has been key to industry discussions on growth, innovation, and film-policy implementation.
Governor Mutfwang’s participation adds a political dimension to the event. His background in governance and policy suggests the lecture may highlight how state and federal frameworks can support Africa’s film industry.
The annual film lecture remains a prominent platform in the creative-economy calendar. It brings together producers, policymakers and creatives focused on advancing Nigeria’s film sector on a continental stage.
Nigerian shoppers now have a new option to access affordable products with the launch of the Amazon Bazaar app. The platform offers hundreds of thousands of items in categories like fashion, home, and lifestyle, with many priced under ₦15,000. Some products start as low as ₦3,000, giving consumers a wide range of choices for budget-friendly shopping. (thecable.ng
Customers who spend over ₦30,000 on the app qualify for free delivery. New users also receive special discounts on their first orders. With product reviews, star ratings, and free 15-day returns, shoppers can make informed choices before buying. (nairametrics.com
The app allows independent logins for Nigerian users who already have Amazon accounts. This makes it easier to explore low-cost products while staying connected to the broader Amazon ecosystem.
For consumers, the launch provides a convenient way to access affordable products without leaving home. It also opens the door to international shopping standards, reliable delivery, and a variety of options that were previously harder to find locally.
Amazon’s rollout of the Bazaar app in Nigeria follows similar expansions in markets like Hong Kong, the Philippines, and Taiwan. Nigerian shoppers are now part of a growing global trend where e-commerce platforms focus on value, convenience, and choice.
The Recording Academy has announced the nominees for the 2026 Grammy Awards in the Christian and Gospel categories. The list highlights artists whose music continues to inspire faith communities around the world.
Leading the nominations is CeCe Winans, recognised for her album More Than This, which has earned praise for its powerful message and vocal depth. Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Maverick City Music, and Elevation Worship also received multiple nominations, reflecting their growing influence across global worship spaces.
The categories include Best Gospel Performance/Song, Best Contemporary Christian Music Album, and Best Roots Gospel Album. Each category celebrates a unique expression of faith through music, from traditional hymns to modern praise and worship.
This year’s nominations also feature a strong mix of new and established voices. Artists such as DOE, Brandon Lake, and Chandler Moore continue to push the boundaries of contemporary gospel sound while maintaining strong lyrical depth and authenticity.
For many fans, the 2026 Grammy nominations reflect how far gospel and Christian music have come in shaping mainstream culture. The winners will be announced during the Grammy Awards ceremony set to take place early next year.
The federal government says it has attracted $5 billion in new investment across manufacturing, financial technology and energy sectors over the past two years.
President Bola Tinubu revealed the figure during the opening of the 2025 Lagos International Trade Fair. He credited clearer policies and active investor engagement for the capital inflows.
He stated that efforts such as removing fuel subsidies, unifying foreign-exchange rates and digitising port operations have helped restore business confidence.
The combined strength of manufacturing and fintech is significant. Manufacturing acts as a foundation for value-added production, while fintech drives financial inclusion and access to digital services.
The investment figures indicate growing investor trust in Nigeria’s ability to attract global capital despite structural challenges.
