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Naira And Stocks Slip As Trump’s Military Warning Triggers Market

Nigeria’s financial markets opened November 2025 on a turbulent note as both the naira and equities tumbled sharply following controversial remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump, who hinted at possible military intervention in Nigeria over alleged religious persecution.

Latest figures from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) revealed that the naira, which had reached a 2025 high of ₦1,421.73 per dollar, weakened to ₦1,436.34/$ on Monday — a 1.03 per cent depreciation or a ₦14.61 loss in a single trading day. At the parallel market, the local currency slid further to ₦1,455/$ amid surging investor anxiety and increased demand for foreign exchange.

The sharp decline followed a weekend of escalating diplomatic tension after Trump, via his Truth Social platform, accused Nigeria of “Christian genocide” and directed the U.S. Department of War to prepare for “possible action” should the alleged killings continue. His remarks, which labelled Nigeria as a “country of particular concern,” quickly sparked global debate and uncertainty over the political and economic fallout for Africa’s largest economy.

The reaction across the markets was swift. Trading sentiment at the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) turned negative as the All-Share Index dropped by 0.25 per cent to close at 153,739.11 points, cutting year-to-date gains to 49.37 per cent. Market capitalisation fell by ₦245.88 billion to settle at ₦97.58 trillion.

Heavy selloffs in Aradel Holdings (-9.21 per cent) and Access Corporation (-3.07 per cent) led the downturn, as investor confidence wavered. Of the active stocks, 38 declined while 19 advanced. Union Dicon topped the gainers’ list with a 9.93 per cent rise, whereas Honeywell Flour Mills suffered the biggest loss, plunging 10 per cent.

Market activity also slowed considerably. Total traded volume and value fell by 87.94 per cent and 44.64 per cent respectively, to 627.5 million units worth ₦25 billion. United Bank for Africa (UBA) accounted for the largest share of trading, representing 21.8 per cent of the total volume (136.8 million units) and 22.2 per cent of total value (₦5.5 billion).

Sectoral performance showed a mixed picture. The Oil & Gas (-3.94 per cent), Commodities (-1.85 per cent), Insurance (-1.48 per cent), and Banking (-0.22 per cent) indices all closed in the red, while the Consumer Goods sector edged up 0.49 per cent. The Industrial Goods index ended the session flat.

In the fixed-income space, investor appetite for Nigeria’s Eurobonds also weakened. According to Cowry Asset Management, average yields rose by 5 basis points to 7.70 per cent as global investors turned risk-averse amid rising geopolitical tensions. Bloomberg data showed that Nigeria’s dollar-denominated bonds were the worst performers among emerging markets on Monday, with all ten Eurobond notes ranking among the global laggards. Bonds maturing in 2047 fell the steepest, losing 0.6 cents to 88.26 cents on the dollar before recovering slightly later in the day.

Despite the volatility, some market experts believe the panic may be short-lived. Tilewa Adebajo, Chief Executive Officer of CFG Advisory, told The PUNCH that the decline was likely “a temporary overreaction.”

“This looks like a short-term blip,” Adebajo noted. “International market prices are already stabilising, and given Nigeria’s recent removal from the FATF Grey List, long-term fundamentals remain solid.”

However, Dr. Muda Yusuf, Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), cautioned that Trump’s rhetoric could seriously damage investor sentiment.

“The U.S. President’s threat of military intervention is unnecessary, destabilising, and economically damaging,” Yusuf said in a policy statement. “Such pronouncements raise investor risk perception and erode market confidence in Nigeria’s economy.”

He further advised that Nigeria should continue to strengthen its internal security and governance mechanisms while pursuing international engagement through dialogue rather than confrontation.

“Any form of unilateral military action,” Yusuf warned, “would endanger Nigeria’s economic stability, disrupt regional peace, and aggravate humanitarian challenges. The prudent path forward lies in diplomacy, cooperation, and mutual respect for sovereignty.”

As global observers await clarity on Washington’s next steps and Abuja’s diplomatic response, analysts agree that restoring investor confidence will depend heavily on calm policy communication, transparency, and consistency from both the Federal Government and the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Nigeria Targets 2 Million Barrels Per Day Oil Output By 2027 – NNPC

Court Sentences Three To Death By Hanging For Armed Robbery In Ilorin

The Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin has sentenced three men to death by hanging after they were found guilty of armed robbery and unlawful possession of firearms.

The convicts were arraigned before Justice M.O. Folorunso for robbing a victim of his Infinix Note 11 mobile phone at gunpoint on 2 March 2024, at about 6:00 a.m., in the Oko Erin area of Ilorin.

Delivering judgment on Tuesday, Justice Folorunso, who became emotional during the ruling, pronounced the death sentence, stating: “The three of you shall be hanged by the neck until you die.”

In the same sitting, the court discharged and acquitted two women—one of whom is pregnant—who were standing trial on a four-count charge of unlawful possession of firearms, aiding and abetting, kidnapping, and criminal conspiracy.

The women, identified as Aisha Haruna and Rabi Umar, were arrested on 25 June 2025 by operatives of the Police Anti-Kidnapping Squad in Babanla, Ifelodun Local Government Area, after the vehicle in which they were travelling was found to contain a rifle and 31 rounds of live ammunition. Other suspects in the vehicle reportedly fled.

During proceedings, the prosecution, led by Senior State Counsel, I. B. Olorundare, told the court that the women were intercepted by police and local vigilantes around 5:00 p.m. over suspected criminal activity.

However, delivering a judgement that lasted over an hour, Justice Folorunso held that the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt, noting contradictions in police testimony.

The court also observed that although a rifle was recovered from one of the bags, the evidence did not establish whether it was an AK-47 or an AK-49, nor did it sufficiently link the women to an offence.

The judge subsequently discharged and acquitted the two, and ordered that their counsel provide transport fare to enable them return to their homes in Kaduna and Kammbi community, Moro Local Government Area.

Meta, NDPC Resolve $32.8 Million Data Privacy Fine Through Court Settlement

Meta, NDPC Resolve $32.8 Million Data Privacy Fine Through Court Settlement

$MMTLP: FINRA Silent As Investors Demand Action

Global tech giant Meta Platforms Inc. has reached an out-of-court settlement with Nigeria’s Data Protection Commission (NDPC) over a $32.8 million fine imposed earlier this year for alleged data privacy violations involving Nigerian users on Facebook and Instagram.

The agreement was formally adopted as a judgment by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, after both parties presented their signed terms of settlement.

Meta, represented by Fred Onuobia (SAN), confirmed that the settlement terms, dated October 30 and filed on October 31, 2025, had been mutually agreed upon. The NDPC’s counsel, Adeola Adedipe (SAN), also consented to the application.

“The terms of settlement reached by both parties are hereby entered as the judgment of this court,” Justice Omotosho ruled.

The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/355/2025, stemmed from NDPC’s February 18 decision to sanction Meta with a $32.8 million remedial fine and eight corrective orders for allegedly breaching users’ privacy rights in relation to behavioural advertising.

Following the penalty, Meta filed a motion ex-parte seeking judicial review and an order to quash the NDPC’s enforcement decision. Although the court granted Meta leave to pursue judicial review, it declined to stay NDPC’s proceedings, instead opting for an accelerated hearing.

Both parties later informed the court that they had entered settlement discussions to resolve the matter amicably. Meta’s counsel had previously requested a suspension of rulings to allow negotiations to continue without prejudice.

NDPC’s objection had challenged the competence of Meta’s case, arguing it was non-compliant with Federal High Court procedural rules and lacked jurisdictional grounds. However, with the latest settlement, the dispute has now been formally resolved.

The fine against Meta marked a significant enforcement milestone under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, which was signed into law by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023 to strengthen citizens’ control over their digital data and promote accountability among tech platforms.

Nigeria Targets 2 Million Barrels Per Day Oil Output By 2027 – NNPC

Nigeria’s Private Sector Growth Climbs To Six-Month High – Stanbic IBTC PMI

Nigeria’s private sector has recorded its strongest performance in six months, as improving macroeconomic conditions continue to bolster business activity and output.

According to the Stanbic IBTC Bank Nigeria Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report for October, compiled by S&P Global, business activity and new orders rose at a faster pace compared to September, reflecting renewed growth momentum across key industries.

The headline PMI increased to 54.0 in October, up from 53.4 in September, indicating a solid improvement in private sector conditions — the highest reading since April 2025. The report also noted that business activity has now strengthened for 11 consecutive months.

The growth was underpinned by strong demand, new product launches, and easing inflationary pressures. Manufacturing led the expansion, while other sectors such as services, agriculture, and wholesale/retail also recorded positive gains.

Despite the stronger output, job creation remained modest, though businesses continued to hire additional staff for the fifth consecutive month to manage rising workloads. Purchasing activity and inventory levels also increased as firms prepared for further expansion.

The report noted that inflationary pressures eased during the period, with output prices rising at the second-slowest pace in five and a half years. Although input cost inflation rose slightly due to higher purchase and staff costs, it remained significantly lower than 2023 and early 2024 levels.

Power outages and delayed client payments created some operational bottlenecks, leading to minor backlogs. However, suppliers’ delivery times improved, indicating better supply chain conditions.

In a statement accompanying the report, Muyiwa Oni, Head of Equity Research, West Africa at Stanbic IBTC Bank, said that the PMI data indicates that Nigeria’s economy entered the final quarter of 2025 on a strong footing.

“Output and new orders growth picked up, supported by product innovation and moderating price pressures,” Oni said. “We expect inflation to ease further towards 15.8%–16.2% in October and below 15% by year-end as food prices stabilise during the harvest season.”

He added that the combination of stable exchange rates, lower inflation, and expectations of potential interest rate cuts would further stimulate real sector activity in the months ahead.

“With these factors at play, we project GDP growth at around 4.0% in 2025, led by stronger manufacturing and services performance,” Oni concluded.

NEMA Distributes Relief Materials To Kano Flood Victims

NEMA Distributes Relief Materials To Kano Flood Victims

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has distributed relief materials to households affected by recent flooding in the Rimin Gado/Dawakin Tofa/Tofa Federal Constituency of Kano State.

NEMA’s Kano Operations Office, in collaboration with the Kano State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Office of the Member representing the constituency at the House of Representatives, carried out the distribution exercise, according to a statement posted on the agency’s official Facebook page on Tuesday.

According to NEMA, the intervention was targeted at communities hit hardest by the flooding and aimed at easing immediate hardship faced by displaced families.

“Affected households received essential food items including rice, maize, beans, vegetable oil, salt, seasoning cubes, and tomatoes to help cushion the impact of the disaster,” the agency said.

A representative of the Federal lawmaker commended NEMA and the Federal Government for the swift response, noting that the gesture would provide much-needed relief to families who have suffered losses.

Beneficiaries, the agency added, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, NEMA, and their constituency representative, and prayed for protection against future occurrences. They also pledged to support disaster-risk reduction initiatives within their communities.

NEMA explained that the distribution was coordinated with officials from SEMA and security agencies to ensure transparency and maintain order throughout the process.

The relief exercise forms part of ongoing Federal Government efforts to support communities impacted by floods across Kano and other parts of northern Nigeria.

PUNCH Online had earlier reported that the NEMA Sokoto Operations Office, in partnership with the Nigeria Red Cross Society, recently distributed non-food items to flood-displaced households at the Ramin Kura IDP Camp in Sokoto South Local Government Area.

Dollar To Naira Exchange Rate For 4th November 2025

Dollar To Naira Exchange Rate For 4th November 2025

Dollar To Naira Exchange Rate For 8th Dec 2023

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 1445.00 per $1 on Tuesday, November 4th , 2025. The naira traded as high as 1430.00 to the dollar at the investors and exporters (I&E) window on Monday.

How much is a dollar to naira today in the black market?

Dollar to naira exchange rate today black market (Aboki dollar rate):

The exchange rate for a dollar to naira at Lagos Parallel Market (Black Market) players sell a dollar for ₦1450 and buy at ₦1445 on Monday 3rd 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₦1450
Buying Rate₦1445

Dollar to Naira CBN Rate Today

Dollar to Naira (USD to NGN)CBN Rate Today
Highest Rate₦1440
Lowest Rate₦1430

Please note that the rates you buy or sell forex may be different from what is captured in this article because prices vary.

Nigeria Targets 2 Million Barrels Per Day Oil Output By 2027 – NNPC

Nigeria Targets 2 Million Barrels Per Day Oil Output By 2027 – NNPC

Nigeria’s state-owned energy firm, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), has reaffirmed that the country remains firmly on course to achieve a daily crude oil production capacity of two million barrels by 2027 and three million barrels by 2030.

The disclosure was made by Mr. Udy Ntia, Executive Vice President for Upstream at NNPC Ltd., during a session at the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC) — the world’s largest gathering for the global energy industry. The event, hosted by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), is taking place from November 3 to November 6 under the theme “Energy. Intelligence. Impact.”

Speaking during a panel titled “Beyond the Barrel: The Future of Upstream Strategy,” Ntia highlighted that NNPC’s upstream expansion strategy is built around collaboration, co-investment, innovation, and sustainability.

“Our goal is not just to produce more oil but to produce it smarter — cleaner, more efficiently, and more profitably,” Ntia explained.

According to him, Nigeria’s upstream sector is undergoing a transformation driven by technology and partnerships rather than competition. He identified three critical global factors influencing this shift — the energy transition, industry fragmentation, and rapid technological advancement.

Ntia emphasized that Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies are revolutionizing the oil sector by improving operational efficiency, enhancing decision-making, and unlocking potential in mature fields. “Technology is now the enabler of smarter investment and long-term value,” he added.

On the issue of energy transition and decarbonisation, Ntia noted that while Africa contributes less than three percent to global emissions, NNPC remains committed to responsible oil production. Ongoing efforts include gas monetisation, flare reduction, and commercial partnerships to minimize environmental impact.

The company’s pipeline initiatives — notably the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline — and refinery optimisation projects are key components of this decarbonisation drive. He explained that the company is adopting co-investment as a modern financing model, ensuring projects remain viable and bankable amid global shifts in the energy market.

“Co-investment is redefining how we fund projects. We are prioritising speed, bankability, and shared growth,” he said.

Ntia also urged greater collaboration between National Oil Companies (NOCs) and International Oil Companies (IOCs), describing them as partners in progress.

“The future is partnership-driven. Everyone benefits when we work together toward profitability, sustainability, and innovation,” he stated.

NNPC’s long-term strategy, he concluded, focuses on balancing energy security, profitability, and environmental stewardship — ensuring Nigeria remains a competitive force in the evolving global energy landscape.

Oil Prices Rise As OPEC+ Moves To Prevent Oversupply Amid Global Tensions

Aviation Reforms In Nigeria And The New Wave of Investment Opportunities

Aviation Workers Drag FAAN To Court Over Concession Of 4 Major Airports

For more than ten years, Nigeria’s aviation sector has operated under uncertainty. Airlines have struggled with trapped foreign funds, high leasing costs, aging infrastructure, and limited investor confidence. These challenges made profitability difficult and discouraged both local and international investment.

Recent policy actions by the Bola Tinubu administration are beginning to change that picture. The government’s clearance of over 700 million dollars in trapped foreign airline funds, along with its renewed commitment to the Cape Town Convention, has sent a strong message to the global aviation community. Confidence is gradually returning to the market, and investors are starting to see new opportunities emerging in a sector that was once seen as too risky.

Restoring Credibility in the Aviation Sector

Credibility is the foundation on which global aviation operates. By releasing the trapped funds, Nigeria has demonstrated that it is ready to meet international financial obligations and re-engage responsibly with the global industry. In previous years, many international leasing companies avoided Nigeria because they could not guarantee repossession of aircraft or repatriation of earnings.

The government’s renewed enforcement of the IDERA (Irrevocable Deregistration and Export Request Authorisation) framework now provides legal assurance to aircraft lessors and financiers that their assets and profits are secure. This policy change not only improves Nigeria’s reputation but also reopens the financing and leasing channels that are essential for any modern aviation economy.

As a result, investors who had previously withdrawn from the market are beginning to reconsider their position, while domestic operators now have better prospects for accessing credit and upgrading their fleets.

Market Response and Emerging Confidence

Evidence of renewed confidence is already visible. Air Algérie has expanded its services to Nigeria by introducing direct routes to Lagos and Abuja. Local carriers are also becoming more ambitious, placing new aircraft orders and seeking international partnerships that would have been unlikely a few years ago.

The larger opportunity, however, lies beyond passenger flights. Nigeria’s wider aviation value chain, which includes maintenance and repair (MRO), ground handling, catering, aviation finance, training, and cargo logistics, remains underdeveloped. With more than 20 million passengers travelling annually and an estimated 7 percent yearly growth in air traffic, the need for supporting infrastructure is increasing rapidly.

Investors who move early into these ancillary areas can secure strategic positions before the market becomes saturated. Sectors such as leasing, logistics hubs, airport services, and aviation training schools offer some of the most immediate potential for growth.

However, one of the government’s most significant initiatives under review is the establishment of a national aircraft leasing company. For years, Nigerian airlines have faced high financing costs and limited access to affordable leasing options because of the country’s perceived financial and regulatory risks.

A national leasing company, especially one supported by both public and private capital, could change that situation. It would allow airlines to access aircraft at more competitive rates while ensuring that a greater portion of the value created in the sector remains within the local economy.

For private investors and financial institutions, this initiative presents two clear avenues for participation. The first is through equity or co-investment in aircraft acquisition and regional sub-leasing. The second is through structured financing linked to aviation infrastructure such as hangars, simulators, and logistics facilities. If implemented effectively, this approach could position Nigeria as a regional leasing hub for West Africa.

Key Areas of Investment Potential

Several parts of the aviation industry are now positioned for renewed private investment.

1. Regional Connectivity: Air travel within West Africa continues to grow, but many routes remain underserved. Airlines that develop mid-range connections between secondary cities can create scalable business models while using Nigeria’s market size to anchor their operations.

2. Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO): Most Nigerian airlines still conduct heavy maintenance abroad, which costs the industry millions of dollars each year. Building certified MRO facilities within the country could retain this expenditure and create new technical jobs.

3. Aviation Technology and Data Systems: As airlines modernise, demand is increasing for software solutions in areas such as scheduling, ticketing, fuel management, and predictive maintenance. Nigeria’s strong base of young tech talent provides an advantage for innovation in these areas.

4. Airport Infrastructure and Public-Private Partnerships: The government is seeking private participation in the modernisation of major airports. These partnerships provide long-term, stable returns for institutional investors, particularly those seeking dollar-denominated infrastructure assets.

Together, these segments represent a complete ecosystem where sustainable value can be built rather than extracted.

Remaining Challenges

Despite recent progress, some challenges remain. Exchange rate volatility, high aviation fuel costs, and limited domestic demand continue to affect airline profitability. Power supply issues and the cost of security around airports also increase operational expenses.

However, these are largely operational challenges rather than structural ones. The government’s commitment to regulatory consistency and investor protection is creating a clearer environment for business planning. Investors can now make long-term decisions with greater confidence that the rules will not change unexpectedly.

Outlook for the Sector

Nigeria’s aviation sector is entering a new phase. The government’s efforts to clear outstanding obligations and strengthen adherence to international standards have started to rebuild trust among global partners. The next steps will depend on consistent implementation, infrastructure expansion, and continued policy stability.

If these reforms are maintained, Nigeria has the potential to become a major aviation and logistics hub for West Africa within the next five years. The market fundamentals already exist, and investor interest is returning.

The question is no longer whether the industry will recover but how quickly it can translate policy reforms into long-term commercial growth.

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EU-Funded SFCG Unveils Social Media Listening Report On Security, Others in Niger Delta

Search for Common Ground (SFCG), a European Union-funded peacebuilding organisation, has released a Social Media Listening (SML) report analysing online conversations and digital engagement around key security-related themes in the Niger Delta, including drug abuse, cultism and public safety.

The report validated at a stakeholders’ meeting in Asaba, Delta State tracked how individuals and communities interact with these issues online, with the findings culminating in 26 recommendations aimed at informing government response, advocacy strategies, and policy formulation.

Stakeholders drawn from Bayelsa, Rivers, and Delta states participated in the session, including journalists, security agencies, oil sector regulators, and drug-control institutions.

Sunny Dada, Mass Media and Information Management Coordinator at SFCG, said the organisation hopes government and partners will implement evidence-based actions driven by the report’s data.

“We carried key stakeholders along to ensure that set actions reflect realities in the region,” he said.

He noted that SFCG programmes have reached more than 10 million people, stressing that although long-standing challenges cannot be erased in a short cycle, early gains were already visible.

Among the report’s recommendations are:

scaling up multimedia campaigns to counter the glamorisation of drug abuse and cultism;

strengthening partnerships with influencers, peer groups and community leaders for youth-focused behavioural change;

and conducting periodic validation meetings that compare online findings with real-world feedback.

Dada urged stakeholders not to allow funding constraints to derail implementation.

“If we continue to prioritise money while the region slides into another wave of violence, it will cost even more to fix,” he said, calling for government and donor agencies to provide sustained support.

Speaking at the meeting, Secretary of the Bayelsa State Peace Architecture, Preye Inebaraton, said the goal was to reduce crime and violence by enabling communities to own the peacebuilding process.

“For us in Bayelsa, we have institutionalised peacebuilding through the State Peace Commission. We can only flush out criminality when we collectively commit to peace,” he noted.

Ann Godwin, a journalist from Rivers State and member of the Common Ground Journalists Forum, said technology must be prioritised if the Niger Delta is to accelerate development.

“We are also leveraging the forum to promote peace and collaboration across the region,” she said.

Presidency Denies Reports Of Tinubu’s Planned Meeting With U.S. Vice President

ARCON, AAAN, NIMN Push for Greater Gender Inclusion In Africa’s Marketing Communications Industry

The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria (AAAN) and the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) have renewed calls for deeper gender inclusion and stronger career pathways for women in Africa’s marketing communications sector.

The appeal was made in Lagos at the 2025 Women in Marketing and Communications Conference and Awards (WIMCA), which remains the largest gathering of women professionals in marketing and communications across the continent.

With the theme, “Bloom, Boom, Zoom: The Pursuit of Excellence,” industry leaders at the event challenged organisations to create systems that allow women to grow, lead, and assume strategic positions within the marketing value chain.

NIMN President, Bolajoko Bayo-Ajayi, described WIMCA as a platform that has evolved into a movement.

“I have never seen such an impressive number of women in marketing and communications gathered in one place. WIMCA continues to ignite ambition, confidence, and passion while pushing women towards enviable heights in management, communications, and marketing.”

AAAN President and Chairman, Heads of Advertising Sectoral Groups (HASG), Lanre Adisa, said the event has become a critical rallying point for female professionals.

“It is rich, impactful, and a must-attend for every woman seeking growth in the industry,” he said, adding that the networking and collaboration opportunities were invaluable.

Director-General of ARCON, Olalekan Fadolapo, said WIMCA’s influence would continue to shape the future of the marketing ecosystem.

“I commend the organisers for a well-structured event. I remain open to support initiatives that push its goals further,” he stated.

Delivering the keynote address, Chief Executive Officer of Entod Marketing, Iquo Ukoh, urged professionals to deliberately cultivate excellence.

“Excellence is a mindset and an identity — it is the difference between being good and being truly great,” she said.

Convener of WIMCA, Joshua Ajayi, said this year’s theme was designed to reflect three stages of professional evolution.

“To bloom is to grow; to boom is to thrive and make impact; and to zoom is to soar into new levels of leadership,” he explained.

The conference also featured the unveiling of the list of the 50 Most Influential Women in Marketing and Communications — a major highlight of the event.

Presidency Denies Reports Of Tinubu’s Planned Meeting With U.S. Vice President

Presidency Denies Reports Of Tinubu’s Planned Meeting With U.S. Vice President

The Nigerian government has debunked claims that President Bola Tinubu is scheduled to travel to Washington for a closed-door meeting with United States Vice President J.D. Vance.

In a statement posted on his official X account on Monday, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, described the circulating reports as “false” and “misleading.”

The clarification follows widespread speculation that Tinubu was preparing for high-level diplomatic engagements in the U.S., amid global reactions to allegations of Christian persecution in Nigeria and a recent online post attributed to former U.S. President Donald Trump threatening possible military action.

Ajayi stressed that if the Nigerian leader were to visit the White House, such a meeting would be held with the U.S. President, not the Vice President.

“There’s a story that President Tinubu is going to the U.S. on Tuesday to see U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance. That story is not true,” Ajayi said. “If President Tinubu is going to the White House, he won’t be going to see a Vice President.”

Trump, in a recent post on his Truth Social account, threatened that the United States could “go in guns blazing” if Nigeria fails to halt alleged killings of Christians, warning that American support could be withdrawn.

The claims have since been dismissed by Nigerian authorities, who insist the Federal Government remains committed to tackling terrorism and violent extremism nationwide.

President Tinubu, also writing on X, said his administration is upholding constitutional guarantees on religious freedom and continues to engage religious leaders across faiths to promote peace and strengthen national security.

“Nigeria stands firmly as a democracy governed by constitutional guarantees of religious liberty,” he said. “Since 2023, our administration has maintained open and active engagement with Christian and Muslim leaders alike, and continues to address security challenges that affect citizens across faiths and regions.”

Chad Closes Border With Nigeria Amid Heightened Security Fears, U.S. Military Threat

Chad Closes Border With Nigeria Amid Heightened Security Fears, U.S. Military Threat

The Government of Chad has ordered the immediate closure of its border with Nigeria, citing rising security concerns and intelligence reports linked to alleged United States military activity in parts of West Africa.

Military sources in N’Djamena told regional security analyst, Zagazola Makama, on Monday that President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno directed a full lockdown along the Chadian–Nigerian boundary after intelligence suggested that armed groups operating in northern Nigeria could attempt to cross into Chadian territory.

The Chadian military has since been placed on maximum alert, with armoured vehicles and heavily armed troops deployed to strategic transit points between both countries.

A senior military official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the move was “to ensure that no armed group or foreign force takes advantage of the current regional uncertainty to destabilise Chad.”

President Déby was also quoted as saying that “no armed group or foreign force will be allowed to enter Chadian soil under any disguise,” stressing that Chad’s territorial sovereignty remained non-negotiable.

The closure comes amid heightened tension across the Sahel and speculation over alleged U.S. military plans in the region — including threats recently attributed to former U.S. President Donald Trump over Christian killings in Nigeria.

Security analysts say Chad’s action appears to be a preventive measure aimed at safeguarding its borders and denying terrorist elements safe passage as alliances shift and conflict dynamics evolve across the Lake Chad Basin.

However, experts warn that while the move may be necessary from a defence standpoint, it could disrupt legitimate border trade and humanitarian movement between both countries — impacting communities that rely heavily on cross-border commerce.

Makama noted that the Chadian government has not disclosed how long the closure will last, but officials have pledged to review the situation as the regional security landscape develops.

In contrast, sources in Borno State — which shares a northeastern border with Chad — said there has been no observable change, insisting that movement across border communities remains unrestricted.

Amid ongoing geopolitical concerns, analysts have urged Nigeria to prioritise diplomatic engagement with Washington to forestall further escalation and to address the persistent activities of Islamist militants in the region.

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Falling Food Prices Offer Rare Relief For Nigerian Households

Nigerian families are experiencing a measure of relief as food prices continue to decline across major markets, following two years of unprecedented cost-of-living pressure.

A new market survey indicated that prices of staple food items have fallen by an average of 30 per cent year-on-year, driven by the ongoing harvest season, improved security in key farming corridors, favourable weather conditions, and the impact of the federal government’s import waiver introduced last year.

In Lagos, the price of a 50kg bag of local parboiled rice has dropped to an average of ₦65,000 from ₦73,000 in October 2024 — an 11 per cent decrease. A 50kg bag of foreign parboiled rice now sells for ₦62,000, down from ₦82,000 last October, reflecting a 24 per cent decline. A big basket of tomatoes has also fallen by 30 per cent — from ₦50,000 to ₦35,000.

Similar trends have been recorded in Abuja, where a 50kg bag of local parboiled rice has dropped by 16 per cent to ₦63,000. A four-liter container of white garri now sells for about ₦1,600 — against ₦4,000 recorded last October — a 60 per cent decline. The popular measure known as “mudu” now sells for ₦2,500, down from ₦5,000.

Many Nigerians say the change is already easing household strain.

“I am so happy that food prices are dropping. I was able to buy more than I budgeted for. Before now, my feeding budget could no longer meet my family’s needs.”

A fruit vendor in Berger, Lagos, who identified herself as Esther, expressed hope that the trend continues. “We are seeing a good change. I want the prices to keep coming down,” she said.

Nigeria faced its worst cost-of-living crisis in 2024 when food inflation climbed to a record 40.87 per cent in June, pushing headline inflation to 34.19 per cent.

However, the latest consumer price index (CPI) figures show that food inflation has eased significantly to 16.87 per cent as of September 2025.

“This outsized food inflation decline may have been partly prompted by the recent material drop in market food prices and easing security concerns,” investment firm CardinalStone stated in a recent report.

For many families who spend more than half of their income on food, the drop has brought relief and hope.

“These days, the same money buys more. It feels like we can finally breathe a bit.” Boluwatife, a Unilag student, stated.

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Amnesty International Trains Journalists On Rights-Centred Reporting Amid Rising Abuses

Amnesty International Nigeria has intensified calls for greater media accountability amid deepening concerns over the country’s deteriorating human rights climate.

At a two-day workshop in Enugu, over 60 journalists from the South-East and Delta State were trained in “Human Rights-Centred Journalism” to strengthen ethical reporting and amplify marginalized voices amid growing state impunity.

Speaking at the training, Amnesty International Nigeria’s Communications Officer, Michael Christian, said the initiative was informed by the alarming increase in abuses and the persistent lack of empathy and gender sensitivity in reportage.

He noted that although many media reports remain factually accurate, they often fail to reflect the human cost of rights violations or preserve victims’ dignity.

Delivering a paper on Press Freedom and the Law, Associate Professor of Law at Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Chijioke Agbo, accused the political elite of “blatant disregard for democratic norms and citizens’ rights”, warning that continued attacks on civil liberties were undermining Nigeria’s democratic foundations.

He also called for the repeal of the Public Order Act of 1979 and criticised the Cybercrimes Act as a “weapon of state intimidation” deployed to silence dissent and muzzle the media. However, Agbo cautioned that source protection, while vital, remains a privilege under law, urging journalists to apply discretion in handling sensitive material.

In another session, law lecturer at the University of Calabar, Anne Agi, stressed the need for gender-sensitive reporting, particularly on gender-based violence (GBV). Her presentation, titled Journalism with a Gender Lens: Protecting Lives, Shaping Narratives, urged reporters to avoid sensationalism and dehumanising framing.

“Survivors are not case studies; they are people,” she said. “Reporting should restore dignity, not destroy it.”

Other facilitators — including Dr Kabiru Danladi, Hajiya Zainab Okino and John Omilabu — led discussions on media ethics, safety, and sustained rights-based advocacy.

Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Delta State Council, Churchill Oyowe, who participated in the training, described it as timely at a period of increased censorship and targeted attacks on journalists.

“This programme has reawakened our professional conscience. We are committed to practising journalism that defends human rights and promotes accountability,” he said.

Apapa Customs Sets New National Revenue Record With ₦303bn October Collection

Naira, Equities Slide As Markets React To Trump’s Military Warning

Federation Account Amasses Over ₦5trn In 6months- RMAFC

Nigeria’s financial markets opened in November 2025 on a negative footing, as both the naira and domestic equities declined sharply following comments by United States President Donald Trump threatening possible military action against Nigeria over alleged religious persecution.

Figures from the Central Bank of Nigeria indicated that the naira, which recently traded at a 2025 peak of N1,421.73/$, depreciated to N1,436.34/$ on Monday — a day-on-day loss of N14.61 or 1.03 per cent. At the parallel market, the currency also weakened to N1,455/$, reflecting heightened anxiety among investors and fresh foreign-exchange demand pressures.

The selloff was triggered by tense geopolitical rhetoric at the weekend, after Trump, via his Truth Social platform, described Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” and asked the US Department of War to prepare for “possible action” if alleged killings of Christians persist. He characterised the situation as “Christian genocide” — a claim that has drawn widespread global criticism and renewed debate about its diplomatic and economic implications for Africa’s largest economy.

The shock swiftly filtered into the capital market. At the Nigerian Exchange, bearish momentum resumed as the All-Share Index fell by 0.25 per cent to close at 153,739.11 points, bringing year-to-date gains down to 49.37 per cent. Market capitalisation dipped by N245.88bn to N97.58tn.

Aradel Holdings (-9.21 per cent) and Access Corporation (-3.07 per cent) led Monday’s decline. Market breadth was negative, with 38 losers against 19 gainers. Union Dicon topped the gainers chart (+9.93 per cent), while Honeywell Flour Mills emerged the worst performer (-10.00 per cent).

Trading sentiment was also weaker as total volume and turnover slumped 87.94 per cent and 44.64 per cent respectively, to 627.5 million units valued at N25bn. United Bank for Africa accounted for the most activity, trading 136.8 million units worth N5.5bn — representing 21.8 per cent of total volume and 22.2 per cent of total value.

Sectoral performance was mixed. Oil & Gas (-3.94 per cent), Commodities (-1.85 per cent), Insurance (-1.48 per cent) and Banking (-0.22 per cent) were down, while Consumer Goods inched higher by 0.49 per cent. Industrial stocks closed flat.

In the fixed-income market, Cowry Assets reported weaker appetite for Nigeria’s Eurobonds, with average yields rising by 5 basis points to 7.70 per cent on Monday amid global risk aversion. Bloomberg also reported that Nigeria’s dollar bonds were the worst performers among emerging-market peers, with all ten notes ranking among global decliners. The 2047 note shed 0.6 cents to 88.26 cents on the dollar before trimming some losses later in the session.

However, some analysts believe the panic may be temporary. Tilewa Adebajo, Chief Executive Officer of CFG Advisory, told The PUNCH that the reaction appeared “not sustainable”.

“This looks like a mere blip,” he said. “Closing prices in global markets already show stabilisation. With Nigeria’s exit from the FATF Grey List, the long-term fundamentals remain strong.”

But Chief Executive of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, Dr Muda Yusuf, warned that such geopolitical statements could severely damage confidence.

“The US President’s threat of military intervention in Nigeria is unwarranted, counterproductive, and economically destabilising,” he said. “Remarks of this nature heighten risk perception and undermine investor confidence.”

He stressed that Nigeria must work to deepen governance and internal security, but added that diplomatic engagement “should be cooperative, not coercive”.

“Unilateral military action would destabilise the Nigerian economy, threaten regional stability, and worsen humanitarian pressures,” Yusuf warned.

With markets now watching for clearer signals on Washington’s policy posture and Abuja’s diplomatic response, analysts say medium-term stability will hinge on calm communication, confidence-building measures, and steady macroeconomic policy from the Federal Government and the CBN.

Oil Prices Rise As OPEC+ Moves To Prevent Oversupply Amid Global Tensions

P+ Measurement Services Marks A Decade Of Independent PR Measurement In Nigeria

P+ Measurement Services, Nigeria’s first independent media intelligence and PR measurement agency, is marking its 10th anniversary this November. Founded in 2015 at the brink of a recession, the agency emerged from a vision to challenge the norms of public relations reporting and bring independence, objectivity, and data-driven accountability to PR measurement and evaluation across Nigeria and Africa.

Over the past decade, P+ has transformed what was once considered an “impossible mission” into a thriving sector. Established from the living room of its founder, Philip Odiakose, who questioned why PR agencies should be the accused, the judge, and the jury of their own work, the company has since led the charge in redefining how PR performance is measured. Today, P+ stands as a trusted partner for more than 20 brands on retainer, having executed 52 projects and collaborated with 25 local and international PR agencies, as well as 86 brands, including government bodies, ministries, NGOs, and private organizations.

P+ Measurement Services has also played a significant role in advancing global recognition for Nigeria within the PR and communications measurement field, through its involvement with international bodies such as the Institute for Public Relations (IPR) Measurement Commission and the International Association for the Measurement and Evaluation of Communication (AMEC). Beyond its client portfolio, P+ has trained over 40 analysts and developed partnerships with key trade associations, including the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and Women in PR.

Speaking on the milestone, Philip Odiakose, Chief Media Analyst and a Commissioner at the IPR Measurement Commission, commented, “Ten years ago, this was just a bold dream, starting an independent PR measurement agency when the industry barely understood the concept of evaluation. What began in my living room has grown into a movement that has shaped how the Nigerian PR ecosystem thinks about accountability, insight, and performance. Our mission was to prove that independence in PR measurement wasn’t just possible, it was necessary. Ten years later, I can say with pride that we did more than prove it; we built a legacy.”

Adding her perspective, Olufunke Mohammed, Executive Director of Operations, shared, “This milestone means a lot more than numbers, it represents ten years of resilience, innovation, and teamwork. We took a risk when we left our jobs to pursue what was then an uncertain idea. Today, that idea has become a recognized institution helping brands make sense of their reputation and impact with credible data and analytics. It has been a decade of growth and learning, and we are only just getting started.”

Rukayat Yusuf, Senior Analyst, reflected on the company’s impact from an analyst’s lens, saying, “Working with P+ has been an opportunity to be part of something pioneering. We have not only provided insights for brands but also helped elevate the PR measurement profession itself. Being part of this journey has shown that excellence is built one dataset, one analysis, and one story at a time.”

As P+ Measurement Services celebrates this significant milestone, the company reaffirms its commitment to continuous innovation and collaboration, empowering communications and PR professionals across Africa with actionable insights that go beyond vanity metrics to drive meaningful impact.

Apapa Customs Sets New National Revenue Record With ₦303bn October Collection

Apapa Customs Sets New National Revenue Record With ₦303bn October Collection

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, has recorded an unprecedented monthly revenue of ₦303 billion in October 2025, the highest ever generated by any customs command in the country’s history.

According to a press release signed by the superintendent of customs, Tunde Ayagbalo, the Public Relations Officer of the command, on November 3, 2025, the figure surpasses the previous record of ₦264 billion achieved by the Command in October 2024.

With this new benchmark, Apapa’s revenue haul for the first ten months of 2025 now stands at ₦2.4 trillion, already exceeding its total collection for the entire 2024 financial year, two months ahead of schedule.

The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, attributed the development to strengthened operational measures, enhanced compliance, and improved trade facilitation systems at the port. He described the new milestone as “the beginning of greater revenue exploits” under his leadership.

According to Oshoba, the Command is fully prepared for increasing trade volumes, particularly with the introduction of Drive-Through Scanning technology expected to process an average of 150 containers per hour from the quayside. He said the system would be a major advancement for port operations in West Africa.

He added that recently promoted Deputy and Assistant Comptrollers have undergone in-house capacity-building sessions to align with the reform directives of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.

“While we are deploying all trade facilitation tools as directed by the CGC — including the One-Stop-Shop that harmonises customs procedures — we are also maintaining a strict stance against revenue leakages,” Oshoba said.

He noted that issuing Demand Notices (DNs) where necessary remains uncompromised, while officers continue to scrutinise attempts to misapply the Harmonised System (HS) code for duty evasion.

The Comptroller disclosed that he has embarked on unscheduled visits to port access corridors to interface with truckers, freight forwarders, and licensed agents, urging them to support the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) by ensuring the swift evacuation of cleared consignments.

He stressed that delays in cargo exit slow down processing of new imports, thereby undermining trade facilitation and revenue generation targets.

“We need the support of all stakeholders to sustain and surpass these gains. This is not our final destination — we are ready to do better,” Oshoba said.

Oil Prices Rise As OPEC+ Moves To Prevent Oversupply Amid Global Tensions

Oil Prices Rise As OPEC+ Moves To Prevent Oversupply Amid Global Tensions

Crude oil prices climbed on Monday following an announcement by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+) to temporarily halt further production hikes in a bid to avert a potential oversupply in global markets.

The group’s decision comes amid concerns over slowing demand and heightened geopolitical tensions linked to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, which have increased volatility in energy markets.

At the start of trading, Brent crude rose by 1% to $65.21 per barrel, compared to the previous close of $64.57, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) increased by 1.1% to $61.37 per barrel.

OPEC+ announced that eight of its member nations—Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, the UAE, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman—will increase oil production by 137,000 barrels per day (bpd) in December but pause further increases from January to March 2026 to prevent a potential supply glut.

The decision follows a similar 137,000 bpd output hike approved for November, signaling a gradual rollback of the 1.65 million bpd voluntary production cuts made in April 2023. The organization described the move as consistent with “healthy market fundamentals” supported by low global stockpiles.

OPEC+ reiterated its pledge to monitor global oil demand trends closely and maintain flexibility to adjust output depending on market shifts. The group also reaffirmed the continuation of 2.2 million bpd voluntary cuts first introduced in November 2023.

Analysts say the decision highlights OPEC+’s efforts to manage market stability amid uncertain conditions.

“This period is typically one of reduced demand,” noted Daniel Hynes, Senior Commodity Strategist at the Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ). “By pausing further hikes, OPEC+ is signaling an awareness that the market may struggle to absorb additional supply—especially if disruptions to Russian exports are short-lived.”

Meanwhile, the Russia-Ukraine conflict intensified over the weekend, with both nations targeting critical energy infrastructure as winter approaches.

According to Ukrainian officials, overnight Russian drone strikes triggered a fire at a truck parking area in the Odesa region, killing two people and disrupting energy supplies. Governor Ivan Fedorov reported that nearly 58,000 residents in Zaporizhzhia lost power following the attacks.

Ukraine’s Air Force said it intercepted 67 out of 79 drones and two Iskander-M ballistic missiles launched by Russia.

In southern Russia, authorities in Krasnodar reported damage to an oil terminal and tanker in the port of Tuapse after debris from intercepted Ukrainian drones fell on the site. Emergency services confirmed there were no casualties but noted that a nearby railway station also sustained minor damage.

As geopolitical risks escalate, energy analysts say oil prices may remain supported in the near term despite concerns about slowing consumption.

OPEC+ Nations Approve 137,000 bpd Oil Production Increase For December

OPEC+ Nations Approve 137,000 bpd Oil Production Increase For December

Eight key members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+) have agreed to raise oil production by 137,000 barrels per day (bpd) starting in December, according to a statement released by the group on Sunday.

The alliance—comprising Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman—held a virtual meeting to evaluate current global oil market dynamics and the economic outlook heading into 2026.

OPEC+ confirmed that after December’s production boost, there will be a pause on further output increases between January and March 2026, citing seasonal demand patterns.

The 137,000-bpd adjustment marks a gradual and partial reversal of the 1.65 million bpd voluntary production cuts introduced in April 2023. The decision reflects the group’s confidence in a stable global economic environment and strong oil market fundamentals, underscored by declining global inventories.

In its statement, OPEC+ reaffirmed its commitment to monitor global energy developments closely and maintain flexibility to alter production levels if market conditions shift. The alliance said it remains ready to pause or reverse adjustments, including the 2.2 million bpd voluntary reductions initially introduced in November 2023.

The latest decision follows a similar 137,000 bpd output increase for November, approved during the group’s previous meeting on October 5.

Cumulative OPEC+ production cuts reached 5.85 million bpd in March 2025, equivalent to about 5.7% of global oil demand. These reductions include a 2 million bpd cut from October 2022, followed by the 1.65 million bpd voluntary reduction in April 2023, and the 2.2 million bpd cut in November 2023.

Member countries had fully reversed the 2.2 million bpd cut by the end of September 2025 and began rolling back the 1.65 million bpd cut in October, signaling a return to more normalized production levels as market balance improves.

OPEC+ will reconvene for its next ministerial meeting on November 30, 2025, to assess ongoing market conditions and future supply strategies.

SERAP Drags Akpabio, Abbas To Court Over Failure To Investigate Alleged ₦3m Pay-To-Pass Claims

Fintiri Flags Off ₦14.9bn Mubi–Maiha Road Reconstruction

Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has flagged off the reconstruction of the 24.1-kilometer Mubi–Maiha Road, a ₦14.9 billion project expected to boost transportation, trade, and cross-border connectivity between Nigeria and Cameroon.

The ceremony took place at the Mubi–Maiha junction at the weekend. Although the road is a federal route, Fintiri said the state government resolved to intervene to ease the hardship faced by road users and to stimulate commercial activity in the area.

“This project reflects our commitment to inclusive development. We are determined to connect communities, promote economic growth, and open up Adamawa to greater opportunities,” the governor said, reaffirming his administration’s mantra that “no one is left behind and nothing is left untouched.”

Fintiri disclosed that 40 per cent of the contract sum has already been paid to the contractor, Triacta Nigeria Limited, to ensure timely delivery, and assured residents that the project would not be abandoned. He also revealed plans to commence additional road projects — including the Mubi–Gella and Ahmadu Bello corridors — as part of broader efforts to expand the state’s road infrastructure.

Commissioner for Works and Energy Development, Adamu Atiku, described the governor as “the architect of modern Adamawa,” noting that the administration has delivered unprecedented milestones in roads, bridges, drainages and flyovers.

He said the Mubi–Maiha road contract, valued at ₦14.98 billion, carries a completion timeline of 15 months, although he expressed confidence that the project could be delivered ahead of schedule.

Representing Triacta Nigeria Limited, Engineer Wajib pledged that the company would deliver a durable, quality road within the agreed timeframe, describing the project as “a pathway to safer travel, stronger communities, and greater economic growth.”

Community leaders who spoke with reporters welcomed the development, describing it as long overdue and one that would significantly transform mobility and trade in the region.

The Mubi–Maiha reconstruction forms part of a wider infrastructure drive by the Fintiri administration aimed at strengthening regional integration and accelerating socio-economic development across Adamawa State.

Akpabio Denies Making Viral Comment Against Trump, US Government
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