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APC Crisis Deepens as Hafiz Idris Blames Barau Jibrin for Gawuna’s Defection, Alleges Plot Against Garo

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APC Crisis Deepens as Hafiz Idris Blames Barau Jibrin for Gawuna’s Defection, Alleges Plot Against Garo

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hafiz Idris, has accused the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, of orchestrating the defection of Yusuf Gawuna to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

In a statement issued on Thursday, Idris alleged that Jibrin played a key role in frustrating Gawuna’s chances of securing a strategic political appointment following his defeat in the 2023 Kano State governorship election.

Gawuna, who ran under the APC, lost to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

According to Idris, the alleged marginalisation and lack of political support ultimately pushed Gawuna to abandon the APC for the ADC.

The APC chieftain further accused

Burna Boy Calls Out Wizkid for Physical Showdown After DJ Tunez Clash

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Burna Boy Calls Out Wizkid for Physical Showdown After DJ Tunez Clash

Popular Nigerian music star Burna Boy has openly challenged fellow artiste Wizkid to a physical fight, escalating tensions between the two Afrobeats giants.

The development comes hours after Wizkid publicly accused Burna Boy and his entourage of assaulting DJ Tunez at a Lagos nightclub on Monday night. The allegation reportedly stemmed from DJ Tunez’s refusal to play Burna Boy’s songs during the outing.

In response, Burna Boy initially claimed responsibility, stating that he alone confronted the DJ. However, the situation took a dramatic turn after a viral video surfaced showing the singer daring Wizkid to settle the dispute physically.

In the video, Burna Boy downplayed Wizkid’s reaction, accusing him of relying solely on social media rather than taking real-life action.

“Wizkid go dey tweet. Na internet their own power dey. We na real life our own power dey,” he said in Pidgin.

He further stated that he expected DJ Tunez to alert Wizkid, suggesting that the Starboy boss would respond more directly instead of making online comments.

The clash has sparked widespread reactions among fans, reigniting conversations around the long-standing rivalry between the two global Afrobeats stars.

As tensions continue to rise, observers are watching closely to see whether the situation will escalate further or be resolved behind the scenes.

Zenith Bank Plc Posts ₦1.04tn Profit as Asset Clean-Up Strengthens Balance Sheet

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Zenith Bank Plc Posts ₦1.04tn Profit as Asset Clean-Up Strengthens Balance Sheet

Zenith Bank Plc has delivered a resilient financial performance for the year ended December 31, 2025, reporting gross earnings of ₦4.19 trillion and a profit after tax of ₦1.04 trillion, even as it undertook major balance sheet restructuring to strengthen its loan portfolio.

According to its audited financial results, the bank’s gross earnings grew by 6% year-on-year from ₦3.97 trillion in 2024, buoyed by a surge in interest income. Interest income rose sharply by 35% to ₦3.7 trillion, driven by higher asset yields, growth in interest-earning assets, and effective pricing strategies.

This robust top-line performance lifted net interest income by 53% to ₦2.64 trillion, reflecting the bank’s ability to sustain a healthy margin between lending rates and funding costs.

However, profitability was slightly impacted by deliberate risk management actions. Profit before tax declined by 5% to ₦1.26 trillion, a drop the bank attributed to a “bold and prudent clean-up” of loan facilities previously under regulatory forbearance. Despite this, profit after tax edged up by 1% to ₦1.04 trillion.

On the balance sheet, customer deposits rose by 11% to ₦24.33 trillion, underscoring strong customer confidence and a deep funding base. Gross loans increased modestly to ₦11.06 trillion, with underlying growth moderated by write-offs linked to previously restructured exposures aimed at improving asset quality.

The bank recorded notable improvements in asset quality metrics, with its non-performing loan ratio declining to 3.8% from 4.7% in the previous year. Its coverage ratio remained strong at 172.6%, highlighting prudent provisioning and adherence to regulatory standards.

Key profitability indicators showed mixed performance amid macroeconomic pressures. Return on average equity stood at 23.2%, while return on average assets was 3.4%. The net interest margin remained solid at 13.7%, although the cost-to-income ratio rose to 45.2% due to higher impairment charges and inflationary trends.

Zenith Bank maintained a strong capital and liquidity position, with a liquidity ratio of 71% and a capital adequacy ratio of 25%, both comfortably above regulatory thresholds.

Commenting on the results, Group Managing Director and CEO, Adaora Umeoji, said the performance reflects disciplined execution of the bank’s strategic priorities.

“Our 2025 results are a reflection of the discipline and focus with which we executed our strategy. We successfully strengthened our asset quality, optimized our balance sheet, and invested in the capabilities that will propel our next phase of growth,” she stated.

She added that the bank enters 2026 in a stronger position, with improved risk asset quality and sustained growth in its core business.

In line with its earnings performance, the board proposed a final dividend of ₦8.75 per share. Combined with an interim dividend of ₦1.25, total dividends for the 2025 financial year stand at ₦10.00 per share—double the ₦5.00 paid in 2024.

Looking ahead, Zenith Bank expressed confidence in sustaining growth, citing strong corporate governance, an expanding global footprint, and a skilled workforce as key drivers of future value creation.

The bank operates over 400 branches across Nigeria and maintains an international presence, including operations in the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Ghana, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, Côte d’Ivoire, and a representative office in China.

UN’s Amina Mohammed says Dangote key to tackling Africa’s food security challenges

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UN’s Amina Mohammed says Dangote key to tackling Africa’s food security challenges

UN’s Amina Mohammed says Dangote key to tackling Africa’s food security challenges

The Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, has underscored the strategic importance of Dangote Industries Limited -particularly Dangote Fertiliser Limited—in addressing Africa’s mounting food security challenges, while calling for stronger global partnerships to scale its impact.

Speaking during a visit to the company’s industrial complex in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, Mohammed said the United Nations would prioritise amplifying scalable solutions capable of mitigating the continent’s food crisis, describing Dangote’s integrated industrial model as a critical pathway.

“I think the UN’s job here is to amplify and to put visibility on the possibilities of mitigating a food security crisis, and this is one of them,” she said. “I hope that when we go back, we can continue to engage partners and countries that should collaborate with Dangote Industries.”

Her remarks come at a time of heightened concern over food shortages and supply chain disruptions across Africa, driven by global economic pressures, climate-related shocks and geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East.

President/Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, said the group has ramped up exports of urea and Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to African markets affected by supply disruptions arising from the crisis.

Noting the widening impact of the situation across the continent, Dangote said the company has intensified shipments of fertiliser to support agricultural productivity and ease supply constraints.

“The challenges are many. One is of urea, which is fertiliser that we have. I think in the last couple of days we’ve been loading to mostly African countries, which we were not doing before,” he said. “And then now it’s to do with petroleum products, which we are now sending mainly to African countries.”

He added that the refinery has shipped about 17 cargoes of petrol to African countries to cushion the impact of the crisis, leveraging its 650,000 barrels per day capacity to stabilise supply across multiple regions.

“What I can do is assure Nigerians … and most of West Africa, Central Africa, and East Africa, we have the capacity to supply them,” Dangote said.

On feedstock supply, Dangote commended the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited for increasing crude deliveries to the refinery in March, noting that volumes rose to 10 cargoes—six supplied in naira and four in dollars—to support domestic fuel availability.

“Last month, they gave us six cargoes for naira and four cargoes for dollars,” he said.

Despite the improvement, the supply remains below the 19 cargoes required for optimal operations, with the refinery continuing to bridge the gap through imports from the United States and other African producers.

Dangote also expressed concern over the unwillingness by international oil companies operating in Nigeria to sell to the refinery, stating that their preference for selling crude to traders forces it to repurchase at higher costs, with broader implications for the economy.

Dangote added that the refinery is seeking increased access to domestically priced crude under local currency arrangements as part of efforts to moderate fuel costs and enhance long-term energy and food security across the continent.

Tinubu Unveils Ojota-Opebi Link Bridge, Hails Lagos as Nigeria’s Infrastructure Pace Setter

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Tinubu Unveils Ojota-Opebi Link Bridge, Hails Lagos as Nigeria’s Infrastructure Pace Setter

In a major boost to urban mobility and economic activity, Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday inaugurated the long-awaited Ojota-Opebi Link Bridge, describing it as a transformative project that reinforces Lagos’ leadership in infrastructure development.

The 5.04-kilometre corridor, linking key parts of the state, was commissioned during the President’s two-day working visit to Lagos. Alongside the bridge, two additional landmark projects—the Lagos State Geographic Information System (LAGIS) Building and a modern multi-agency administrative complex—were also unveiled.

Tinubu, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, said the projects underscore a deliberate commitment to people-focused governance and demonstrate that Lagos continues to thrive despite the pressures of rapid urbanisation.

Describing the new bridge as “a bridge to opportunities,” the President emphasised its economic significance, noting that improved traffic flow directly impacts productivity, business growth, and quality of life in a bustling megacity.

The Ojota-Opebi Link Bridge, originally conceived during Tinubu’s tenure as Lagos governor in 2002, was completed under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. It is expected to ease congestion along the busy Ikeja-Maryland-Ojota corridor while offering an alternative route connecting Opebi and Allen to Ikorodu Road.

Speaking at the event, Sanwo-Olu described the projects as strategic and complementary investments aimed at tackling critical governance and infrastructure challenges. He highlighted modern features of the bridge, including pedestrian walkways, bicycle lanes, solar-powered streetlights, and a robust stormwater management system designed to address flooding along the Odo-Iya-Alaro axis.

Beyond transportation, the governor said the newly commissioned LAGIS Building signals a shift toward fully digitised land administration, reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks and improving transparency. The multi-agency complex, named the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administrative Complex (BATAC), is designed to enhance coordination across government institutions and improve service delivery.

Tinubu expressed appreciation for the honour, noting that digital systems and data-driven governance are essential for Nigeria’s future. He added that the projects align with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic growth, innovation, and institutional efficiency.

“These achievements reflect a system that works and continues to deliver democratic dividends,” Tinubu said, urging other states to emulate Lagos’ development model.

The commissioning ceremony drew top political figures, including APC governors led by Hope Uzodimma, lawmakers, and senior government officials.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, Sanwo-Olu said with just over a year left in office, his government remains focused on delivering measurable outcomes under its THEMES+ agenda.

“As Lagos continues to grow, we are building not just for today but for the future,” he said.

Tinubu’s visit is expected to continue with the unveiling of more projects, reinforcing Lagos’ position as a model for urban development and governance in Nigeria.

OGHA 2027: Ahmed Ojolowo-Ojuko’s Assembly Bid Gains Attention With People-Focused Development Agenda

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OGHA 2027: Ahmed Ojolowo-Ojuko’s Assembly Bid Gains Attention With People-Focused Development Agenda

Ahmed Ojolowo-Ojuko, a UK-based construction and logistics expert, sets sights on the Ogun State House of Assembly in 2027 with a people-focused development agenda

Ahmed Olayiwola Ojolowo-Ojuko, with some women in Ado-Odo/Ota State Constituency 1, during one of his multi-faceted empowerment schemes

OGHA 2027: Meet UK-Based Project Expert Ahmed Ojolowo-Ojuko

A United Kingdom–trained construction and logistics professional, Ahmed Olayiwola Ojolowo-Ojuko has formally stepped into the political arena, setting his sights on a seat in the Ogun State House of Assembly ahead of the 2027 elections.

With over 13 years of experience delivering complex infrastructure projects across the UK, Ojolowo-Ojuko is positioning himself as a reform-minded candidate intent on translating global expertise into local impact.

Known for managing high-stakes operations in both public and private sectors, Ojolowo-Ojuko has built a reputation around discipline, accountability and performance. His career has seen him lead teams exceeding 400 professionals while overseeing multimillion-pound projects, consistently delivered within strict timelines, budgets and regulatory frameworks. His experience across roles including Site Manager, Logistics Manager and Security Manager has, by his account, equipped him with a rare ability to balance efficiency with fairness in managing people and systems.

Speaking on his ambition, Ojolowo-Ojuko said his decision to run is driven by “a practical commitment to improving everyday life for ordinary people through policies that work.” He added, “I have seen systems that deliver results. My goal is to adapt those systems to our realities in Ogun State, ensuring that governance becomes more responsive, transparent and impactful.”

His academic background reflects a multidisciplinary approach to leadership, with qualifications spanning Business, Human Resources, Real Estate and Construction Management. Observers note that this blend of technical and administrative expertise could shape a policy direction focused on infrastructure, housing and economic growth.

At the heart of his campaign is a strong emphasis on youth empowerment, job creation and grassroots economic development. Ojolowo-Ojuko argues that sustainable progress in Ogun State must begin with equipping young people with skills and opportunities. “A society that invests in its youth secures its future,” he said, stressing the need for structured skills development programmes linked to real employment pathways.

He also advocates for transparent governance, mechanised agriculture, improved healthcare delivery and expanded access to education and clean water. According to him, these are not abstract promises but measurable targets that can be achieved through strategic planning and partnerships.

His vision for Ogun State goes beyond legislative duties. He envisions a House of Assembly that actively engages citizens and delivers tangible improvements at the grassroots. “Lawmaking should not end at debates and motions; it must translate into visible change in people’s lives,” he noted.

Ojolowo-Ojuko’s leadership philosophy underscores his campaign message. “True leadership is not about position, but about responsibility — to serve, to empower, and to leave systems stronger than you met them,” he said, framing his candidacy as one rooted in service rather than ambition.

As political activities gradually build toward 2027, his entry adds to a growing field of aspirants seeking to redefine representation in Ogun State. With a blend of international exposure and local commitment, Ojolowo-Ojuko is presenting himself not just as a politician, but as a problem-solver determined to bring structured, results-driven governance closer to the people.

Ibadan Cultural Festival 2026: Ajewole Unveils City’s Economic Potential, Honours Prominent Nigerians

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Ibadan Cultural Festival 2026: Ajewole Unveils City’s Economic Potential, Honours Prominent Nigerians

The President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Ajeniyi Ajewole, has declared that Ibadan has the capacity to evolve into a major economic powerhouse in Nigeria if its vast potential is properly harnessed.

Ajewole made the assertion during a press conference held at Ibadan House, Oke Aremo, to announce activities marking the grand finale of the 2026 Ibadan Cultural Festival.

According to him, unlocking the city’s economic strengths would not only create employment opportunities for youths but also significantly increase internally generated revenue for Oyo State.

He explained that the annual festival goes beyond cultural celebrations, serving as a unifying platform for indigenes and residents while positioning the ancient city as a destination for tourism and investment.

As part of the grand finale, Ajewole revealed that four distinguished Nigerians have been shortlisted for honours. They include George Akume, Ishaq Oloyede, Abdulfatai Buhari, and Adesola Ajayi.

Ajewole noted that the awardees were carefully selected based on their contributions to national development and their impact on the growth of Ibadan through various endeavours.

Highlighting the broader significance of the festival, he said the event is strategically designed to celebrate Ibadan’s rich heritage while showcasing its economic potential to the world.

“Ibadan has what it takes to become a leading economic force in Nigeria. Harnessing these opportunities will create jobs and boost revenue for the state,” he said.

He added that the festival also reconnects Ibadan indigenes in the diaspora with their roots, encouraging them to contribute to the city’s development.

“Our aim is to celebrate our past heroes. Ibadan was founded by warriors, and we continue to showcase their legacies annually,” he stated.

Ajewole further emphasised that the festival stimulates local economic activities, including trade, arts and crafts, and tourism-related businesses, all contributing to grassroots development.

The festival committee outlined a lineup of activities leading up to the grand finale scheduled for April 18, 2026, at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex.

Events include a Jumat service, medical outreach with distribution of palliatives, Amala Day, church thanksgiving, education and talent hunt programmes, a youth conference, stage play, beauty pageant, business dinner, Ibadan conference, and a march past.

A major highlight of the celebration is the Ibadan Loni Fuji talent show, aimed at promoting local music talents and providing a platform for emerging artists.

The grand finale will feature a parade of affiliate clubs, awards for outstanding groups, and musical performances by artists serving as brand ambassadors for the festival.

Ajewole also disclosed that the Oluyode family would receive special recognition as one of the founding warrior lineages of Ibadan.

He added that this year’s edition has attracted increased corporate participation, with First City Monument Bank serving as the headline sponsor.

In his remarks, the Planning Committee Chairman, Gbolagade Akere, expressed confidence that the festival would not only preserve the city’s cultural heritage but also position Ibadan as a top destination for tourism and investment in Nigeria.

He commended supporters of the festival and called on more individuals and organisations to contribute to the development of Ibadanland through active participation in the annual celebration.

FG Moves to Scale ₦1trn Housing Fund, Targets Affordable Mortgages for Millions of Nigerians

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FG Moves to Scale ₦1trn Housing Fund, Targets Affordable Mortgages for Millions of Nigerians

The Federal Government has intensified efforts to address Nigeria’s housing deficit, calling for a major expansion of the MOFI Real Estate Investment Fund to improve access to affordable homes for citizens.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, made the call while hosting a delegation from the fund, following a detailed presentation on its progress and nationwide impact.

Edun described the initiative as a model of innovation and collaboration, noting that scaling the fund would enable more low- and middle-income Nigerians to benefit from affordable housing opportunities. He emphasized that expanding access to long-term financing remains central to the government’s economic agenda.

The fund is designed to provide low-cost mortgage financing at single-digit interest rates—marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s traditionally high-cost housing finance system. The initiative aligns with the broader economic policy direction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes inclusive growth and practical economic reforms.

According to the fund’s National Coordinator, Sani Yakubu, the programme aims to make home ownership more attainable by offering mortgages of up to 20 years at a fixed interest rate of 9.75 per cent. Prospective homeowners are also required to provide just 10 per cent equity contribution—far lower than typical market conditions.

Structured as a ₦1 trillion initiative and registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the fund is being rolled out in phases. Yakubu disclosed that ₦250 billion has already been raised in the first tranche, with about ₦75 billion deployed to support over 1,000 housing units nationwide.

Beyond improving access for buyers, the fund also integrates off-take guarantees to support developers. This mechanism ensures that completed housing units have ready buyers, thereby reducing financing risks and encouraging increased investment in housing construction.

Officials say the approach not only expands home ownership but also stimulates growth in the construction and real estate sectors—key drivers of economic development.

With plans underway to scale up the fund, the Federal Government believes the initiative could significantly deepen access to affordable housing while unlocking broader economic opportunities across the country.

INEC Redeploys Osun REC Amid Partisanship Allegations Ahead of 2026 Governorship Poll

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INEC Redeploys Osun REC Amid Partisanship Allegations Ahead of 2026 Governorship Poll

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has redeployed its Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Osun State, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, following mounting political pressure and allegations of partisanship ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

The decision comes after petitions were reportedly submitted to the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, by political stakeholders raising concerns over the commissioner’s neutrality.

Both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) had called for Agboke’s removal, citing fears over the credibility of the electoral process as preparations intensify for the August 15 governorship poll.

However, not all voices aligned with the calls for his redeployment. A coalition group, Osun Democrats for Democracy (ODD), rejected the demands and expressed confidence in INEC’s leadership in the state. The group maintained that the commission had so far demonstrated fairness and neutrality in its electoral preparations.

Confirming the development, Agboke announced his redeployment to Ondo State in a brief message shared via a WhatsApp platform created for journalists in Osun.

“Good evening all. I have been transferred to Ondo State. I thank you most sincerely for the support given to me throughout my stay here in Osun State. May God Almighty support you all as well,” he wrote.

The redeployment is seen as a strategic move by the electoral body to address concerns and maintain public trust as the state heads toward a crucial governorship election.

Olota Reaffirms Peaceful Atmosphere as Multi-Billion Naira Pharma Firm Opens in Otta

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Olota Reaffirms Peaceful Atmosphere as Multi-Billion Naira Pharma Firm Opens in Otta

The Olota of Ota reassures investors of peace as Sam Pharmaceutical unveils a multi-billion naira facility in Ogun, marking 55 years of excellence and boosting industrial growth

Olota Declares Otta Safe as Sam Pharmaceutical Launches Multi-Billion Naira Facility in Ogun

Otta, Ogun State, has reinforced its reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading industrial hubs with the commissioning of a new multi-billion-naira pharmaceutical company. The development signals growing investor confidence in the region’s industrial potential.

His Majesty, Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege (Lanlege Ekun II), the Olota of the Ancient and Paramount Ottaland, Awori Kingdom, led an array of prominent dignitaries at the unveiling of Sam Pharmaceutical Company’s new facility along Ilo Awela, Otta. The event marked a significant milestone for the community and the nation’s healthcare sector.

The development, disclosed in a statement by the Principal Secretary to the Olota, Prince Adeyemi Sulaimon Olusesi, also coincided with the company’s 55th anniversary—celebrating decades of resilience, innovation, and impact in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

“This investment is a testament to the confidence stakeholders have in Otta’s future,” the statement noted, adding that “for over five decades, Sam Pharmaceutical has demonstrated resilience and excellence in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.”

At the event, the monarch delivered a strong message to investors, reaffirming Otta’s status as a peaceful and business-friendly environment.

“Otta remains a safe, stable, and welcoming destination for investors and businesses,” Kabiyesi declared.

He further emphasised that the town’s enduring unity and stability remain critical drivers of its growing appeal to investors and industrialists nationwide.

“The enduring peace and unity in our land will continue to attract more development into Ottaland,” he said.

Reiterating the community’s alignment with national development goals, the monarch assured stakeholders of continued cooperation and harmony.

“We are committed to supporting government policies through peaceful coexistence and progressive engagement,” the Awori royal father added.

The ceremony drew high-profile attendees, including Ogun State Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Minister of State for Health Dr. Isiaq Adekunle Salako, NAFDAC Director-General Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, former Ekiti State Governor Adeniyi Adebayo, and other key government and industry stakeholders.

The launch marks another milestone in Otta’s steady transformation into a powerhouse of industrial and economic activity in Nigeria, further strengthening its position as a preferred destination for large-scale investments.

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