July 2025 | Page 27 of 48

Buhari’s Economic Legacy: A Presidency Marked by Reform Recession and Resilience

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago06 mins

As tributes continue to pour in following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, many are reflecting on the sweeping economic transformations—both turbulent and transformative—that defined his eight-year civilian presidency from 2015 to 2023. Buhari, a retired Major General and one of Nigeria’s most consequential political figures, first ruled as military head of state from 1983 to 1985 before returning to power as an elected leader in 2015. His administration pursued an ambitious anti-corruption agenda, economic reform strategies, and efforts to combat insecurity—but it was the economy that bore the deepest marks of his tenure. Below is a summary of key economic events that shaped Buhari’s presidency: Nigeria’s Twin RecessionsBuhari’s administration saw two economic recessions, a first in Nigeria’s history under a single government.The first occurred in 2016, triggered by the global oil price crash and mismanagement of the naira exchange regime.The second came in 2020, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted global supply chains and battered oil revenues. Pandemic Stimulus and Poverty Reduction EffortsIn response to COVID-19, the government launched a N2.3 trillion Economic Sustainability Plan (ESP) aimed at job creation and MSME support.Buhari also inaugurated a national strategy to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty over ten years—primarily through agricultural and economic diversification programmes. Treasury Single Account (TSA) ImplementationThough introduced under President Goodluck Jonathan, the TSA was fully enforced under Buhari in September 2015, consolidating government revenues under the CBN and improving fiscal transparency. Support for Nigerians in Global FinanceBuhari’s diplomatic push led to Nigerians occupying key positions: Border Closures and Food Security PushIn August 2019, Buhari ordered a partial closure of land borders to curb smuggling and promote local rice production.Critics argued the move exacerbated inflation, and borders were eventually reopened in December 2020. Oil Production Woes and TheftDespite Nigeria’s status as Africa’s largest oil producer, crude output plummeted during Buhari’s second term.In 2022, output fell below 1 million barrels per day, its lowest in decades.Rampant oil theft and pipeline vandalism cost the nation over $2 billion in losses in just eight months of 2022. NNPC CommercialisationIn a landmark reform, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) was converted into NNPC Limited, a fully commercial entity in July 2022.Buhari described it as free from fiscal regulations and political interference, positioning it to operate more competitively. Debt Explosion and Fiscal DeficitsUnder Buhari, Nigeria’s debt profile skyrocketed.Total public debt rose from N42 trillion in 2015 to N77 trillion by 2023.External debt surged from $7.35 billion to $37.2 billion.Ways and means borrowing from the CBN exceeded N25 trillion.Debt servicing costs rose from N1.06 trillion in 2015 to over N5.2 trillion by 2022. Currency Volatility and DevaluationThe naira depreciated sharply: Controversial Naira RedesignIn late 2022, Buhari unveiled redesigned N200, N500, and N1000 notes to curb counterfeiting and ransom payments.The rollout was widely criticised as chaotic and cosmetic. Many Nigerians described it as a mere “repainting.” Fuel Crisis and Off-Spec Petrol ScandalIn early 2022, substandard petrol led to a nationwide fuel crisis.The NNPC blamed suppliers like MRS, Oando, and Duke Oil. A technical committee was formed to investigate, but disruptions persisted. Despite criticism of his economic management, Buhari’s defenders cite his anti-corruption drive, infrastructure investment, and efforts to restructure Nigeria’s fiscal systems as lasting legacies. As Nigeria reflects on his passing, the economic imprint of Muhammadu Buhari’s presidency will remain deeply contested—and impossible to ignore. SourBy TheCable Staff | 14 July 2025

Buhari: I Left Office with the Same Assets I Had Before Becoming President

Indian, Ethiopian Prime Ministers, Other World Leaders Mourn Buhari’s Death

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago06 mins

SaharaReporters earlier exclusively reported that former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari died of leukaemia on Sunday in London, United Kingdom. Global leaders—including the Indian Prime Minister, the Ethiopian Prime Minister, the Tanzanian President, the Sierra Leonean President, and top international organisations—have expressed grief and extended heartfelt condolences to Nigeria over Buhari’s passing. Sources privy to the former president’s health condition told SaharaReporters that Buhari died of leukaemia, a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India In a message posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said: Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of Ethiopia Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali wrote: “On behalf of the Government and People of Ethiopia, I extend sincere condolences to the family of former President Muhammadu Buhari and to the people and Government of Nigeria. Our thoughts are with you during this time of mourning.” Samia Suluhu, President of Tanzania Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu expressed her condolences: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari.On behalf of the Government and the people of the United Republic of Tanzania, I convey our heartfelt condolences to His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President Buhari’s family, and the people of Nigeria. May his soul rest in peace.” Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone President Bio wrote: “I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of President Muhammadu Buhari.On behalf of the people of the Republic of Sierra Leone, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to his family, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the people of Nigeria during this incredibly difficult time.This is truly a devastating loss, and our thoughts are with you all.” African Union Commission AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf released a statement on behalf of the AU: “President Buhari will be remembered as a principled and resolute leader who served Nigeria with honour and conviction.Throughout his tenure, he remained a committed Pan-Africanist—an advocate for regional integration, good governance, and African-led solutions to the continent’s pressing challenges.The Chairperson pays tribute to the life and enduring legacy of this distinguished statesman and salutes his contribution to the advancement of Africa’s development, unity, and voice on the global stage.May his soul rest in eternal peace.” ECOWAS In a statement signed by Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, the regional bloc stated: “It is with deep sorrow that the world learnt of the passing of His Excellency General Muhammadu Buhari, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.On behalf of all the institutions of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), we extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Government of Nigeria, and the entire Nigerian people.ECOWAS salutes the memory of this distinguished statesman whose invaluable contributions greatly advanced democracy and regional integration in West Africa and across the continent.May his soul rest in paradise.”

It’s a War: Volunteers Lead Resistance as Trump’s Deportation Raids Intensify Across LA

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago06 mins

As immigration raids sweep across Los Angeles under orders from former President Donald Trump, a network of volunteer-led resistance groups is rising up to protect undocumented communities from what they call “warfare in the streets.” At 5:30 a.m. in South Central LA, a group of volunteers from Union del Barrio gather in a laundromat parking lot. Armed not with weapons, but with walkie-talkies, megaphones, and leaflets, their mission is to patrol immigrant-dense neighborhoods and warn residents about imminent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. “This is like Vietnam,” says Ron, a high school history teacher and activist. “We’re taking losses, but in the end we’re going to win. It’s a war.” The group is led by Francisco “Chavo” Romero, who each morning rallies volunteers before dispatching them into the field. On this particular morning, the streets seem calm, but elsewhere in Los Angeles, ICE agents are already conducting dawn raids. ICE Arrests Surge, Communities in Fear Since the beginning of June, more than 2,800 undocumented immigrants have been arrested in Los Angeles alone, according to the Department of Homeland Security—a dramatic spike from the 850 arrests recorded in May. The raids have prompted chaos, street protests, and rising fear in immigrant communities. Videos of ICE agents tackling individuals at car washes, construction sites, and outside homes have gone viral, fueling public outrage. In Pomona, a Latino neighborhood east of LA, Maria recounts how her husband Javier, who has lived in the U.S. for nearly 40 years, was arrested at work by masked ICE agents. “I know they’re doing their job,” Maria says tearfully, “but they don’t have to do it like that—pushing people down like they’re animals.” Javier is now being held in a detention center two hours away. Their grandchildren, especially the eldest, are asking when “papa” is coming home. “I don’t know what to tell him,” Maria says. “He’s not a criminal.” Volunteers Counter ICE Tactics Union del Barrio’s resistance effort includes identifying suspicious vehicles—like white SUVs with tinted windows—suspected of being used by ICE for surveillance. Volunteers distribute flyers with legal advice and encourage people not to open their doors without a warrant. “People are scared,” says Ron, pointing at a fruit vendor who he says is the typical ICE target: vulnerable and easy to detain. Businesses Suffer, Owners Plan to Hide Workers The fear extends to the business community. Soledad, who runs a Mexican restaurant in Hollywood, says half of her undocumented staff are too afraid to show up for work. “I’ve told them: get inside the fridge, hide behind the stove—just don’t run.” Soledad works double shifts to keep her restaurant afloat amid plummeting sales and no way to cover wages. “Sometimes I cry,” she admits. “We’re desperate.” Trump’s Crackdown Fuels Tensions The White House defends the raids as targeting criminals, but activists argue the reality is far more indiscriminate. ICE agents have reportedly faced resistance—including being shot at—making their operations more perilous. Still, Trump has instructed ICE to intensify the crackdown further. Tensions have only escalated with the deployment of National Guard troops, prompting new waves of protests and confrontations on the streets. As deportation numbers climb, so too does the resolve of resistance groups like Union del Barrio. “We’re not backing down,” says Chavo. “We’re organized, we’re ready, and we’re fighting for our communities.”

Everything Except Easy: How Jannik Sinner Fought Back to Win Wimbledon 2025

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago05 mins

Jannik Sinner stood victorious on Centre Court, arms raised, then dropped to his knees—overcome by the moment. Just five weeks after suffering a gut-wrenching loss at the French Open, the 23-year-old Italian bounced back in stunning fashion to win his first Wimbledon title, defeating archrival Carlos Alcaraz in a gripping final. “Only me and the people who are close to me know exactly what we have been through on and off the court,” Sinner said, fighting back emotion. “It has been everything except easy.” The victory makes Sinner the first Italian man to win Wimbledon, and it came just over a month after he had lost to Alcaraz in a five-set classic in Paris—after holding three championship points. Redemption After Roland Garros That French Open defeat had the potential to unravel a lesser athlete. But for Sinner, it became fuel. After just three days off to regroup with friends and family, he returned to training with a vengeance. “This match was important for many reasons,” said Darren Cahill, one of his coaches. “He knew the importance of closing this one out when he had the opportunity.” Grass-Court Struggles to Centre Court Glory Sinner’s Wimbledon campaign didn’t start smoothly. He exited early in Halle, his only grass-court warm-up. And during his fourth-round match at SW19, he found himself down two sets to Grigor Dimitrov before an injury to the Bulgarian shifted the match. Sinner also suffered an elbow knock during that match but powered through the pain to defeat Ben Shelton and Novak Djokovic in straight sets en route to the final. By dethroning Alcaraz—his first win in their last six meetings—Sinner added Wimbledon to his 2024 and 2025 Australian Open titles, taking a huge step toward a career Grand Slam. Setbacks Off the Court Sinner’s 2025 season has not been without controversy. Earlier this year, he served a three-month doping ban after testing positive for clostebol, a banned substance. Though the World Anti-Doping Agency found he had no intention to cheat, he accepted responsibility for his team’s error. He returned in time for the French Open and has since retained his world No. 1 ranking, highlighting his consistency and resilience. “He’s had a challenging year,” Cahill admitted. “The guy you see on court—so focused and precise—is also a fun, relaxed guy off court, always joking and messing around. We’re proud of the way he’s carried himself.” A Rivalry for the Ages Sinner and Alcaraz have now claimed eight of the last nine Grand Slam titles between them, with their rivalry shaping a new era in men’s tennis. And as Sinner hoisted the Wimbledon trophy aloft, he shared a knowing smile with Alcaraz, a silent nod to battles fought—and still to come. “It doesn’t matter how you win or lose,” Sinner said. “You just have to understand what you did wrong and work on that. That’s why I’m holding this trophy.” Source: By Harry Poole, BBC Sport

Southend Airport Closed After Plane Crash Sparks Fireball

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Southend Airport has been shut down until further notice after a light aircraft crashed and burst into flames shortly after takeoff on Sunday afternoon, sending plumes of black smoke into the sky and triggering an emergency response. According to Essex Police, officers responded to reports of a collision involving a 12-metre aircraft at approximately 3:48 p.m. The scene remains active as emergency services continue operations at the crash site. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area, stating that “work will be ongoing for several hours.” Passengers Advised to Contact Airlines Southend Airport confirmed the closure, citing a “serious incident” and advising Monday passengers to contact their airlines for travel updates and alternatives. “We ask that any passengers due to travel tomorrow via London Southend Airport contact their airline for information and advice,” the airport said in a statement. Dutch Charter Firm Confirms Aircraft Involved Zeusch Aviation, a charter operator based in the Netherlands, identified the aircraft involved as their SUZ1 flight, a Beech B200 Super King Air that was headed to Lelystad Airport in the Netherlands. “Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected,” the company said. Eyewitness: “There Was a Large Fireball” Eyewitness John Johnson, who was at the airport with his wife and children, said the pilots waved to families while taxiing before the crash occurred seconds after takeoff. “The aircraft took off and within a few seconds had a steep bank to the left. It almost seemed to invert and unfortunately crashed. There was a large fireball,” Johnson told Sky News. Investigation Underway Authorities have not yet confirmed the number of occupants on board or any casualties. Flight tracking data shows the plane was in the air for just moments before the crash. Emergency responders, including police, fire services, and medical personnel, remain at the scene, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the crash.

Shettima in London to Accompany Buhari’s Body Back to Nigeria for Burial

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

Vice President Kashim Shettima is currently in London to accompany the remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari back to Nigeria for burial, following Buhari’s death on Sunday afternoon. Shettima departed Nigeria around midnight on Sunday and was received in the United Kingdom on Monday morning by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuff Tuggar, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, and Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reportedly dispatched the Vice President with the presidential air fleet to retrieve the late President’s body after learning of his demise. Buhari, who had been hospitalised in the UK for a prolonged illness, passed away quietly at about 4:30 pm on Sunday in a private clinic in London. The former president’s corpse is expected to arrive in Nigeria today (Monday) for final burial rites, which will receive full honours from the Federal Government. In response to the development, President Tinubu has summoned an emergency Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting to deliberate on the government’s involvement in the burial and other state responsibilities. Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s civilian president from 2015 to 2023, will be buried in accordance with Islamic rites. More details on the funeral plans and national tributes are expected to follow shortly.

Awujale of Ijebuland Oba Sikiru Adetona to Be Buried Today at Ijebu Ode Residence

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

The remains of Alayeluwa Oba Dr. Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, will be laid to rest today (Monday) in accordance with Islamic rites. The burial ceremony is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. at his Igbeba residence, Ogbagba Court, in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State. Oba Adetona passed away on Sunday at the age of 91, just hours after the death of his longtime friend, former President Muhammadu Buhari. Though official details surrounding the monarch’s death remain limited, palace sources said the revered royal died peacefully after a brief illness. Born May 10, 1934, Oba Adetona ascended the throne on April 2, 1960, making him one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning traditional rulers, with a remarkable 65-year reign marked by wisdom, stability, and community advancement. The monarch was known for his close relationships with several national leaders, including Buhari, with whom he shared a deep friendship forged during Nigeria’s early post-independence years. Tributes have begun pouring in from political leaders, royal families, and citizens across the country. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described Oba Adetona as “a towering figure of integrity, courage, and service whose reign brought unprecedented progress to Ijebuland.” The burial ceremony is expected to draw high-profile dignitaries, traditional rulers, and community members, as Ijebuland mourns the passing of its revered monarch.

Mission X: Super Falcons to Play Zambia in Quarter-Final

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Algeria’s Lady Fennecs successfully stifled the Super Falcons to earn a scoreless draw in their final group B match of the 13th Women Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday and earn a spot in the tournament’s quarter-finals for the first time ever. Head Coach Justine Madugu made eight changes to the squad that started against Botswana in Thursday’s 1-0 defeat of Botswana, with defenders Shukurat Oladipo, Miracle Usani and Sikiratu Isah, midfielders Christy Ucheibe and Jennifer Echegini, and forwards Francisca Ordega, Ifeaoma Onumonu and Chinwendu Ihezuo starting alongside goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Tosin Demehin and captain Rasheedat Ajibade. The intention was clear, which was to rest a lot of key players ahead of Friday’s potentially-explosive quarter-final encounter against Zambia’s Copper Queens. In Casablanca on Sunday, Algeria, like Botswana before them, threw women behind the ball in numbers, and stymied the play of the Super Falcons. However, Francisca Ordega was vibrant, as she was against Portugal in the friendly match in Lisbon last month. Her cross just before half time spilled to Ifeoma Onumonu, whose effort was blocked before it got to the brilliant goalkeeper Chloe N’gazi Boumrar. In the 52nd minute, a melee ensued in the Algerian box but the ball would not just not in, and three minutes later, Ordega, unselfishly, laid the ball in the path of Ajibade, who was double-teamed off the ball. Later on, Echegini, Ordega and substitute Esther Okoronkwo made efforts, but it ended scoreless and ensured the Lady Fennecs’ progress to the last eight.