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Tinubu Orders Swift Action to Lower Food Prices, Launches New Agriculture Reforms

By Kamal Yalwa: ABUJA, NIGERIA – September 11, 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the immediate implementation of measures aimed at reducing food prices across Nigeria, in a renewed push to tackle the nation’s worsening food insecurity. The directive, which includes the formation of a Federal Executive Council committee, was disclosed on Wednesday by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, during a capacity-building workshop for Senate correspondents in Abuja. According to Abdullahi, the primary focus of the presidential order is to ensure the safe and unhindered transportation of agricultural produce across the country’s road networks—an intervention aimed at slashing the high logistics costs that continue to drive up food prices. “The President has given a matching order with a federal executive council committee already handling it on how we are going to promote safe passage of agricultural foods and commodities across our various routes in the country,” Abdullahi stated. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has been grappling with rising food costs exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidies, surging transport expenses, and security threats along key supply routes. Despite a series of policy interventions, millions of Nigerians still find basic food items increasingly unaffordable. The minister reiterated that the current strategy aligns with President Tinubu’s broader vision of food sovereignty—one that extends beyond simple availability to include affordability, access, and nutrition. To support this agenda, Abdullahi announced the forthcoming launch of two major initiatives: the Farmer Soil Health Scheme, which is expected to improve agricultural yields through better land management practices, and a revamped Cooperative Reform Programme, aimed at empowering rural farmers through enhanced access to resources and financing. “Mr. President has shown tremendous interest in the cooperative sector as a veritable tool for resource mobilisation, for economic activity generation, and to improve the livelihood of members,” the minister added. The Abuja event, themed “Parliamentary Reporting: Issues, Challenges and Responsibilities,” was also attended by Senate Media Committee Chairman Senator Yemi Adaramodu, former presidential aide Senator Ita Enang, and Director General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman. President Tinubu had previously emphasized the importance of food security in his June 12 Democracy Day address at the National Assembly. He highlighted Nigeria’s progress toward achieving food sovereignty, calling for a national shift toward self-sufficiency in food production and market-driven growth. “We must learn to produce and grow most of our food, and we are on the path to achieving food sovereignty,” the President said during his speech. The new efforts come as Nigeria continues to confront the economic aftershocks of policy reforms and the impact of global supply chain disruptions, with food security now central to the administration’s medium-term development agenda.

EFCC Interrogates Former NNPCL CEO Mele Kyari

EFCC Grills Former NNPCL Boss Mele Kyari Over Multi-Billion Dollar Refinery Spending

Fola Badmus1 week ago1 week ago04 mins

By Kamal Yalwa: ABUJA, NIGERIA – September 11, 2025 The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Wednesday interrogated Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), over the controversial spending of billions of dollars on Nigeria’s long-idle refineries. Kyari, who arrived at the EFCC’s headquarters in Abuja early Wednesday morning, had his international passport confiscated and was still being questioned as of 8:30 p.m., sparking speculation that he could be detained overnight. At the centre of the investigation is over $2 billion disbursed for the Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) of Nigeria’s four state-owned refineries, which continue to underperform despite years of public investment. According to EFCC sources, key focus areas include the $1.55 billion allocated for the Port Harcourt Refinery, $740.6 million for Kaduna Refinery, and $656.9 million for the Warri facility. Officials are also scrutinizing more than N4.8 trillion in operating costs reportedly incurred during Kyari’s leadership from 2019 to April 2025, despite the refineries running at minimal or no capacity. Contracts awarded during his tenure are also under review, as investigators try to trace funds allegedly misappropriated. While some former top executives are reported to have refunded portions of the funds voluntarily, Kyari has maintained his innocence and transparency in handling refinery projects. In a prior statement titled “Hard Questions, Honest Answers,” he said: “I have done my part; the EFCC must do theirs. When each of us does our duty – without fear or favour, with honour, respect and commitment – Nigeria moves forward.” Kyari’s invitation by the EFCC comes amid renewed public scrutiny of the nation’s oil sector and longstanding failures to restore refinery operations, despite more than $18 billion having been invested since 2010. Nigeria’s four refineries — two in Port Harcourt, and one each in Kaduna and Warri — have a combined capacity of 445,000 barrels per day but have operated far below capacity for over a decade. During Kyari’s tenure, the Port Harcourt Refinery was ceremoniously reopened in November 2024 after extensive repairs. However, operations were abruptly suspended just six months later, in May 2025, by his successor Bayo Ojulari, who cited unsustainable losses and serious technical setbacks. The EFCC noted that the current phase of the investigation will prioritize the forensic review of TAM-related expenditures before turning attention to what it described as “humongous contracts” approved during Kyari’s administration at NNPCL. The outcome of the probe could set a precedent for accountability in Nigeria’s oil sector, long plagued by allegations of waste, mismanagement, and corruption.

Lagos APC Slams Peter Obi Over Criticism of Tinubu’s Vacation, Urges ‘Responsible Opposition’

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago04 mins

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a stern warning to former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, urging him to adopt a more constructive approach to opposition politics and refrain from what it described as “habitual knee-jerk reactions” to national developments. The warning was contained in a statement released by the APC’s Lagos State Publicity Secretary, Mogaji Seye Oladejo, in response to Obi’s recent remarks questioning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s short private vacation and its alleged impact on national security. Oladejo criticized Obi’s frequent public comments on national issues, accusing him of seeking “cheap relevance” and portraying himself as a moral authority while offering little in the way of substantive policy contributions. “Must Peter Obi comment on everything?” Oladejo asked. “Nigerians are not deceived. His constant moralising of the President’s every move is less about patriotism and more about political desperation.” He described Obi’s approach as reactionary and populist, reducing complex governance issues to “social media talking points,” rather than engaging in serious, solutions-oriented discourse. The APC spokesman also defended President Tinubu’s decision to take a brief vacation, insisting that the president remains fully in charge of the country’s affairs. “In modern governance, leaders remain in constant communication with their security and intelligence teams, regardless of location. Mr. Obi knows this, but prefers posturing over pragmatism,” Oladejo stated. He further cautioned Obi’s aides to carefully assess the former governor’s public engagements, warning that his pattern of criticism may harm his image as a credible opposition figure. “Leadership requires knowing not only what to say, but also when and how to say it. Constant agitation and reflexive commentary do not equal leadership—they undermine it,” Oladejo said. The APC reiterated its commitment to delivering on national priorities including economic recovery, national security, and public sector reforms, while dismissing Obi’s contributions as lacking depth. “Peter Obi’s comments amount to noise, not leadership or patriotism,” Oladejo concluded. “If he has meaningful contributions to make, let him present them responsibly. Otherwise, silence is an honourable option. For us in the APC, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, our focus remains on governance, not political theatre.”

Youth Unemployment Hits 53% in Nigeria, Threatening National Stability – Report

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago06 mins

ABUJA, Nigeria — Over 80 million Nigerian youths are currently unemployed, according to a new report that paints a stark picture of the challenges facing Africa’s most populous country. The State of the Nigerian Youth Report 2025, launched Thursday in Abuja by Plan International Nigeria in collaboration with ActionAid Nigeria, reveals that youth unemployment has surged to 53 percent, posing what the report describes as the “single greatest threat” to Nigeria’s future. The report was officially presented at the Nigerian Youth Dialogue, an event organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Youth in Parliament to commemorate International Youth Day 2025. Speaking during the presentation, Jonathan Abakpa, Advocacy and Youth Programme Officer at Plan International Nigeria, said that widespread unemployment, rising insecurity, and poor governance are driving young Nigerians into dangerous alternatives such as irregular migration, cybercrime, and other illicit activities. “This is not just a statistic—it represents shattered dreams and wasted talent,” the report warns. “Unless urgent action is taken, Nigeria risks losing its greatest asset.” According to the report, approximately 1.7 million graduates enter the job market annually, but face limited employment opportunities in an economy plagued by stagnation. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics indicates youth unemployment rose by 5.3 percent in Q1 2024, with only marginal improvement in Q2. Beyond joblessness, the report highlights insecurity as a significant obstacle to youth development. Over 600,000 people have been killed and 2.2 million kidnapped in recent years, with young people disproportionately affected. Additionally, more than 1,500 schools have been closed in the past two years due to violence, leaving over 1 million children out of school. Quoting UNICEF, the report also notes that armed conflict has displaced 2.6 million people, crippling agricultural activities and threatening food security for more than 25 million Nigerians. The authors emphasize that widespread poverty, affecting 40.1 percent of the population (about 82.9 million Nigerians), continues to limit opportunities for youth advancement. Structural challenges such as poor infrastructure, corruption, and digital exclusion further exacerbate the problem. Findings from a nationwide “We Listen” survey revealed regional disparities: Despite the grim outlook, the report underscores the resilience of Nigerian youth, particularly in the technology and creative sectors. It calls for urgent interventions including: One key recommendation is for Universal Basic Education to be enshrined as a constitutional right, ensuring that no child is excluded from schooling due to poverty, insecurity, or geographic barriers. In his remarks, Hon. Ayodeji Alao-Akala, Chairman of the House Committee on Youth in Parliament, reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to youth-focused legislation. “Nigerian youths are the future of our nation,” Alao-Akala said. “Our task as leaders is to make sure the children of tomorrow inherit a country better than what we met—one with more opportunities and less hardship.” He added that the National Assembly has dedicated considerable effort toward passing bills and motions aimed at improving the lives of young people. As one of the younger members of parliament, Alao-Akala said he remains passionate about ensuring that policies from the House of Representatives translate into tangible outcomes for Nigerian youth. He pledged continued collaboration with stakeholders to strengthen youth development programmes and prepare the next generation for leadership, innovation, and economic growth.

Nigerian Woman Killed by Mob Over Alleged Blasphemy in Niger State

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago04 mins

Abuja, Nigeria — A woman accused of blasphemy was killed by a mob in Niger State, northern Nigeria, over the weekend, police confirmed on Sunday. The victim, identified by local media as a food vendor named Amaye, was reportedly set ablaze following a dispute in the town of Kasuwan-Garba. According to police, the incident began when a man allegedly made a light-hearted marriage proposal to the vendor. Her response was deemed blasphemous by some individuals nearby, sparking a violent reaction. “Unfortunately, it led to a mob attack, and the victim was set ablaze before a reinforcement of security teams could arrive at the scene,” said Wasiu Abiodun, spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command. Authorities have condemned the killing, describing it as an act of “jungle justice.” An investigation is currently underway to identify and prosecute those responsible. Police have also appealed for calm, urging the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. Mob violence linked to allegations of blasphemy has been a recurring issue in parts of northern Nigeria, where Islamic (Sharia) law operates alongside the country’s secular legal system in 12 predominantly Muslim states. Blasphemy is considered a criminal offence under Sharia law. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have raised concerns about the misuse of blasphemy allegations. The group stated that such accusations are often “weaponised to settle personal scores,” and warned that they frequently lead to extrajudicial killings. “A minor disagreement or argument, often deliberately orchestrated, can escalate into mob violence,” Amnesty said in a recent statement. “The accused are often lynched before any legal process can begin.” The killing in Kasuwan-Garba follows a series of similar incidents in recent years. In 2022, Deborah Samuel, a university student in Sokoto State, was beaten and burned alive after being accused of making blasphemous remarks. In 2023, a butcher named Usman Buda was stoned to death in the same state under similar circumstances. While Nigeria’s constitution guarantees freedom of speech and religion, the country remains sharply divided over issues of faith, justice, and the rule of law. The Supreme Court has previously ruled that blasphemy allegations must be tried in a court of law, not adjudicated through mob violence.

Hadi Sirika Blames Nigerian Airlines for Collapse of Nigeria Air Project

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago04 mins

Abuja, Nigeria — Former Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Hadi Sirika, has alleged that certain domestic airlines were responsible for the collapse of the Nigeria Air project — a proposed national carrier in partnership with Ethiopian Airlines. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, Sirika said that domestic carriers, including Air Peace, Azman Air, and United Nigeria Airlines, acted under the umbrella of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) to frustrate the initiative. According to him, their opposition stemmed from the proposed ownership structure, in which the Nigerian government was to hold only a 5% stake. Sirika defended the transparency of the Nigeria Air agreement, noting that it was approved by both the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC). He emphasized that the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model followed all required procedures, including obtaining necessary certifications from the ICRC. “It was not our process — it was the process of the ICRC. It was not a bad deal,” Sirika stated. “Some people went to court to say we cannot establish an airline where we take five per cent. That was what stalled it.” The former minister also rejected allegations that N100 billion was spent on the failed project, clarifying that only N5 billion was budgeted for Nigeria Air between 2015 and 2023, with N3 billion released and about N2 billion spent — largely on consultancy and staffing. Sirika defended the decision to partner with Ethiopian Airlines, citing the lack of capacity among domestic carriers to compete with established international airlines. He argued that Ethiopian Airlines, with nearly eight decades of operational experience, was a logical partner to develop a sustainable national carrier. “Today, 95% of all airlines operating within Africa are non-African — British Airways, Qatar Airways, Air France, and others. Ethiopian Airlines is one of the few successful African carriers, and they came to partner with us to open up the world,” he said. Sirika noted that the lack of a strong national airline contributes to the high cost of international flights from Nigeria. He cited the example of airfare between Abuja and London being more expensive than from Accra to London. He urged the public to invoke the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act to scrutinize the details of the agreement, promising to release a book offering deeper insight into his tenure and the Nigeria Air saga. The Nigeria Air project was one of the most controversial initiatives of the Buhari administration’s aviation policy. Though unveiled with much fanfare in 2018 and relaunched again before the end of Sirika’s term in 2023, the airline failed to commence commercial operations before his departure from office.

Tinubu Orders Mandatory Health Insurance Implementation Across MDAs

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago04 mins

Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu has directed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) to issue a service-wide circular mandating all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to implement compulsory health insurance in line with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act, 2022. The directive is part of a broader push to strengthen Nigeria’s health insurance framework, expand coverage, and reduce out-of-pocket healthcare spending among citizens and public sector workers. According to the President’s order, all MDAs are required to enrol their employees under the NHIA health insurance plan. Where preferred, agencies may also procure supplementary private health coverage, provided it aligns with the provisions of the NHIA Act. Additionally, the directive makes it compulsory for entities participating in public procurement to present a valid NHIA-issued Health Insurance Certificate as part of their eligibility documentation. This certificate will serve as a precondition for procurement participation and continued engagement. The President also instructed that all MDAs must require applicants to submit valid NHIA Health Insurance Certificates when applying for or renewing licenses, permits, or other official approvals. This move is intended to ensure wider compliance and embed health coverage into regulatory and administrative processes. To support enforcement and transparency, the NHIA has been tasked with establishing a digital verification platform for Health Insurance Certificates. This system will allow MDAs to verify submitted documents quickly and accurately, reducing the risk of fraud or non-compliance. Furthermore, all MDAs are directed to collaborate with the NHIA to develop internal procedures for certificate verification and to ensure consistent compliance monitoring across government institutions. While pushing for full implementation across government agencies, President Tinubu also emphasized the need for constructive engagement with the private sector. He called for closer collaboration to ensure the provisions of the Act do not place undue burdens on businesses. The NHIA Act, passed in 2022, mandates universal health insurance coverage for all persons residing in Nigeria. However, despite some progress, national coverage remains low three years after its enactment. This latest presidential directive aims to accelerate adoption of the Act’s provisions, safeguard workers, and build a more accountable and inclusive health system across the country.

DSS Arraigns Nine Over Terror-Related Offences in Benue and Plateau

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago03 mins

Abuja, Nigeria – The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned nine individuals in connection with a series of terror-related offences and violent attacks across Benue and Plateau States. The suspects were brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja in six separate cases, facing charges ranging from terrorism and unlawful possession of firearms to arms trafficking and destruction of property. Among those arraigned were Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede, both from Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. They are facing a three-count charge for allegedly carrying out reprisal attacks in Abinsi and Yelwata villages. They are also accused of destroying private property in Ukpam village, which reportedly led to the economic loss of 12 cattle. In another case, Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi of Awe LGA in Nasarawa State were charged alongside others still at large. They allegedly participated in coordinated attacks on the communities of Abinsi and Yelwata on June 13, 2025. A 32-year-old woman, Halima Haliru Umar, from Faskari LGA in Katsina State, was arraigned on a four-count charge. She is accused of transporting 302 rounds of live AK-47 rifle ammunition to bandits operating in the region. The DSS also arraigned a 75-year-old man, Nanbol Tali, and another individual, Timnan Manjo, on a four-count charge related to the illegal purchase and sale of two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles. The weapons were reportedly sold without licenses for a sum of ₦3 million. In a related development, Danjuma Antu of Jos North, Plateau State, appeared before the court on a five-count charge for unlawful possession of two locally made pistols capable of firing 9mm caliber ammunition. Additionally, the DSS filed a six-count charge against Silas Iduh Oloche of Agatu LGA, Benue State, for unlawful possession of 18 firearms, including grenades, without a license. The DSS noted that investigations are ongoing, and efforts are being made to apprehend other suspects who remain at large. These arraignments come amid increased efforts by security agencies to clamp down on rising violence, arms proliferation, and terrorism in Nigeria’s North Central region, which has faced persistent instability in recent years.