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Nigeria Yet to See Tinubu’s Full Potential, Says Senator Daniel

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Nigeria Yet to See Tinubu’s Full Potential, Says Senator Daniel

Gbenga Daniel says Nigeria has yet to witness President Tinubu’s full potential, as he reflects on leadership and national development

“You Haven’t Seen Tinubu’s Full Potential Yet” — Gbenga Daniel Speaks at 70th Birthday Event

Abuja, Nigeria — April 2, 2026

The Senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, has declared that Nigeria is yet to experience the full leadership capacity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing strong confidence in the President’s ability to deliver transformative governance.

Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja during the unveiling of four books marking his 70th birthday, Daniel described Tinubu as a pragmatic and deeply intellectual leader whose best is still ahead.

The high-profile ceremony, held at the Yar’Adua Centre, drew an array of dignitaries, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan.

According to Daniel, Tinubu played a pivotal role in shaping his approach to governance during his tenure as Ogun State governor.

“Nigeria has yet to witness the peak of President Tinubu’s capabilities,” he said.

He noted that several policies implemented under his administration were inspired by Tinubu’s governance model, describing the President as “one of the most practical-minded individuals” he has encountered in public service.

Daniel added that Tinubu’s ideas and leadership style have influenced many political leaders across the country.

Representing the President at the event, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, praised Daniel as a trusted ally and longstanding associate.

Delivering Tinubu’s message, Edun highlighted Daniel’s accomplishments across engineering, business, and politics, particularly his role in founding Kresta Laurel, a leading firm in elevator installation and maintenance in Nigeria.

Tinubu, through Edun, also commended Daniel’s impact in public office, noting his focus on industrialisation, infrastructure, education, and public-private partnerships after assuming office in 2003.

Among his landmark achievements, the President referenced the development of an agro-allied cargo airport and the establishment of the Tai Solarin University of Education.

Beyond the celebrations, Daniel used the occasion to address pressing national issues, including misinformation, corruption, and declining ethical standards in governance.

He warned that limited access to credible information continues to shape poor political choices among citizens.

On corruption, Daniel proposed bold structural reforms, including the possibility of granting amnesty to encourage the repatriation of illicit funds held abroad, while also pointing to the role of global financial systems in enabling such practices.

He further called for a return to ethical leadership anchored on the Omoluabi ethos—emphasising integrity, accountability, and moral discipline—as a pathway to sustainable national development.

On security, the senator expressed support for ongoing discussions around state policing but stressed the need for safeguards, such as State Police Councils, to prevent abuse of power.

The event also featured the unveiling of four books—Daniel in the Lions’ Den, My March through the Courts, Path to Justice, and Otunba Gbenga Daniel in the Eyes of Time—chronicling his life, career, and contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape.

Dangote’s Explosive 70th Birthday Tribute To Daniel Triggers Political Ripples, See Details

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Dangote’s Explosive 70th Birthday Tribute To Daniel Triggers Political Ripples, See Details

The remark interpreted by observers as “Gbenga Daniel made us” has sparked renewed debate over Ogun State’s industrial evolution

Dangote’s Explosive 70th Birthday Tribute To Daniel Triggers Political Ripples, See Details

A goodwill message by Africa’s foremost industrialist, Aliko Dangote, to former Ogun State governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, on his 70th birthday has stirred significant political and economic reactions, with stakeholders dissecting what many describe as a far-reaching endorsement of Daniel’s legacy.

In the message, Dangote credited Daniel’s administration for creating a conducive business environment that enabled the rapid growth of his organisation, a statement that has since generated conversations across political circles, policy communities, and the private sector.

The remark interpreted by observers as “Gbenga Daniel made us” has sparked renewed debate over Ogun State’s industrial evolution and the leadership responsible for laying its economic foundation.

Across Ogun’s political landscape, Dangote’s statement is already being viewed as a defining intervention in legacy discourse.

Political analysts note that, the comment reinforces Daniel’s image as a pro-investment governor. 

It subtly introduces a comparative lens on successive administrations. 

It may influence ongoing alignments and elite consensus ahead of future political calculations. 

Within party structures and stakeholder blocs, discussions have reportedly intensified over the implications of Dangote’s position, particularly given his stature and influence in Nigeria’s economic ecosystem.

In the business space, Dangote’s acknowledgment has been interpreted as a validation of policy-driven growth, with industry watchers pointing to Ogun State’s rise as a manufacturing hub during and after Daniel’s tenure.

Experts argue that such a public statement from a figure of Dangote’s standing carries weight, as it links governance decisions directly to private-sector expansion outcomes.

Dangote’s tribute also highlighted a long-standing relationship with Daniel spanning over three decades, built on mutual trust and collaboration. This disclosure has further fueled commentary about the intersection of political leadership and enterprise success in Nigeria.

The fallout from the message has extended into broader conversations about leadership evaluation, with some stakeholders revisiting policy frameworks that attracted investments into Ogun State. 

* The sustainability of such frameworks over time

* The role of leadership continuity in economic growth

For many observers, Dangote’s remarks have effectively reopened the scorecard on Ogun’s development trajectory.

While the message was intended to celebrate Daniel’s 70th birthday, its aftermath suggests a wider impact.

Analysts agree that Dangote’s statement has reignited legacy debates within Ogun State politics, amplified discussions around governance and economic outcomes and positioned Daniel prominently within current political and economic conversations. 

As reactions continue to unfold, the consensus is clear, what began as a goodwill message has evolved into a catalyst for political reflection and economic discourse.

With Aliko Dangote’s words now echoing across multiple spheres, Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s legacy is once again at the center of a conversation that extends well beyond his 70th birthday.

Source: Thecitypulsenews. 

GTCO Unveils “Take on Squad” Hackathon 3.0, Opens Call for Applications 

Lukman Omikunle
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GTCO Unveils “Take on Squad” Hackathon 3.0, Opens Call for Applications 

GTCO announces the launch of Take on Squad Hackathon 3.0, calling on African innovators to develop tech-driven solutions to real-world challenges

GTCO Launches “Take on Squad” Hackathon 3.0, Opens Call for Applications 

Lagos, Nigeria — April 2, 2026 — Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (“GTCO” or the “Group”) has announced the launch of “Take on Squad” Hackathon 3.0, reaffirming its commitment to fostering innovation, empowering talent, and supporting the development of technology-driven solutions that address real-world challenges across Africa.

Now in its third edition, the Hackathon brings together developers, designers and entrepreneurs across Nigeria in a collaborative environment to build practical solutions across key sectors including financial services, healthcare, commerce and digital inclusion. Under the theme “Smart Systems: The Intelligent Economy,” participants are challenged to design and build intelligent, data-driven solutions that transform how communities engage with money. 

Applications are now open, and interested teams can find full guidelines and registration details on the official portal at https://squadco.com/hackathon.

Speaking on the initiative, Eduophon Japhet, Managing Director of HabariPay, stated: “Today’s dynamic, digitally driven world demands continuous innovation, which is shaping how economies grow, how businesses scale, and how societies evolve. Through “Take on Squad” Hackathon, we are deliberately investing in the ideas and talent that will define the future. Our objective is not simply to encourage innovation, but to enable its translation into scalable solutions that deliver real and measurable impact. This reflects GTCO’s role as a financial services platform that connects capital, capability, and creativity to drive sustainable progress.”

The social coding event remains a cornerstone of HabariPay’s mission to foster creativity and problem-solving among emerging tech talents. Competing teams will leverage Squad’s advanced APIs to create scalable digital tools that address everyday challenges faced by businesses and individuals. 

Through initiatives such as this, GTCO continues to position itself at the intersection of finance, technology and enterprise, actively shaping the future of digital transformation in Africa.

HabariPay Ltd is the fintech subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), one of the largest financial services institutions in Africa with direct and indirect investments in a network of operating entities located in 10 countries across Africa and the United Kingdom.

Licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), our goal is to support SMEs, micro merchants, large corporations and other fintechs (Tech Stars) with the tools they need to thrive in an evolving digital economy and expand beyond their current market reach. HabariPay’s solutions include Squad, a full-scale digital payments toolkit to make in-person and online payments simpler, HabariPay Storefront, an e-commerce website to facilitate online purchases, Value-Added Services to help merchants access cost-effective and flexible airtime and data bundles to run their businesses, as well as a switching infrastructure that enables tech-focused businesses to optimise cost and make transactions more efficient.

HabariPay’s contributions to Accelerating Digital Acceptance in Africa have not gone unnoticed–it received Mastercard’s Innovative Mobile Payment Solution Award at TIA 2022 for its innovative payment solution, SquadPOS.

Squad is a complete digital payments solution that is reliable, secure, and affordable, making receiving in-person and online payments simpler and convenient.

Thousands of merchants currently leverage Squad’s payment solutions for their daily business operations. Squad’s current products and service offerings include SquadPOS, Squad Payment Links, Squad Virtual Accounts, USSD, and E-Commerce Storefront.

Find out more at www.squadco.com.

EFCC Moves to Seize 57 Properties Linked to Ex-AGF Malami, Court Fixes Hearing

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EFCC Moves to Seize 57 Properties Linked to Ex-AGF Malami, Court Fixes Hearing

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking a final forfeiture order on 57 properties allegedly linked to former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN).

In a motion filed before the court, the anti-graft agency argued that the respondents failed to present sufficient evidence to overturn an earlier interim forfeiture order granted against the assets.

Listed as respondents in the suit (FHC/ABJ/CS/20/2026) are Malami, his son Abdulaziz, his wife Hajia Bashir Asabe, and Abiru’ Rahman Abubakar Malami. Several companies and individuals, including Rayhaan Bustan and Agro Allied Ltd, Mountain View Gold and Jewellery Ltd, Amasdul Oil and Gas Ltd, and Meethaq Hotels Ltd, were also named.

The EFCC based its application on six grounds, emphasizing that the court is empowered under Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud-Related Offences Act, 2006, to grant final forfeiture. It described the process as a non-conviction-based asset recovery proceeding, noting that the properties are reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.

According to the commission, after the interim forfeiture order was published in a national daily on January 9, no convincing justification was provided by the respondents to prevent the assets from being permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

In a supporting affidavit, the EFCC disclosed that multiple petitions alleging corruption, abuse of office, and fraud were filed against Malami during and after his tenure from 2015 to 2023. Investigations reportedly involved financial records obtained from commercial banks and the Central Bank of Nigeria, as well as inquiries with agencies such as the Corporate Affairs Commission, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Code of Conduct Bureau, and the Abuja Geographical Information System.

Further checks were conducted with land registries in Kebbi, Sokoto, and Kano states, alongside the National Universities Commission, while site inspections and asset valuations were also carried out.

The commission detailed Malami’s declared earnings during his time in office, stating that he received N89.66 million in salaries between 2015 and 2023, a severance package of N12.15 million, and N253.6 million in estacode allowances for official foreign trips.

However, the EFCC argued that these earnings are grossly disproportionate to the value of the properties under investigation. It further alleged that many of the structures lacked proper building approvals and were part of efforts to conceal the origin of illicit funds.

The agency also claimed that several assets were acquired indirectly through proxies and corporate entities allegedly linked to Malami under the Rayhaan Group.

The properties, numbering 57, are said to be located across Abuja, Kebbi, Kano, and Kaduna states, including sites associated with Rayhaan University in Kebbi.

Justice Abdulmalik has fixed April 21 for the hearing of the EFCC’s motion for final forfeiture.

Nigeria Pushes to Activate Turkey Deals as Trade Target Hits $5bn Ambition

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Nigeria Pushes to Activate Turkey Deals as Trade Target Hits $5bn Ambition

Nigeria has intensified efforts to translate its bilateral agreements with Turkey into tangible outcomes, with Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, emphasizing the need for full implementation of existing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).

The minister made this known on Thursday while receiving the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, during a courtesy visit in Abuja.

She disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to develop clear roadmaps for operationalising agreements signed during his official visit to Ankara in January 2026.

“These MoUs are only meaningful when implemented. What matters is their impact on the lives of our people,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated, stressing the administration’s focus on delivering measurable results from diplomatic engagements.

The agreements span key sectors including education, defence, media, agriculture, and social services, as well as the establishment of a Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) to drive structured economic collaboration.

She noted that Nigeria and Turkey share common positions on critical global issues such as counterterrorism, climate change, migration, and international security, reinforcing their strategic partnership.

On economic ties, the minister revealed that bilateral trade between both countries is approaching $2 billion, with projections to reach $5 billion through strengthened cooperation and private sector engagement.

She highlighted the January 2026 trade forum in Ankara as a turning point, describing it as a practical step toward advancing the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda by converting diplomatic goals into actionable economic outcomes.

Central to this effort is JETCO, designed to address trade barriers, enhance private sector participation, and unlock opportunities in key sectors such as energy and agriculture. The initiative also aims to leverage Turkish technical expertise and Halal quality standards to expand Nigeria’s export potential into European and Middle Eastern markets.

In his remarks, Ambassador Poroy reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to deepening defence and economic cooperation with Nigeria, stressing the importance of sustained counterterrorism dialogue and strategic engagement.

He expressed optimism that the Joint Economic and Trade Committee would play a pivotal role in achieving the $5 billion trade target, urging both countries to fully leverage the platform to strengthen bilateral relations

Tinubu Hosts Chad’s President Déby in Abuja, Deepens Security and Economic Ties

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Tinubu Hosts Chad’s President Déby in Abuja, Deepens Security and Economic Ties

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday received his Chadian counterpart, Mahamat Idriss Déby, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, in a move aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and advancing regional cooperation.

The high-level meeting, held behind closed doors, focused on key areas of mutual interest, including security collaboration, trade expansion, and economic development between both nations.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the talks come amid ongoing efforts by Nigeria and Chad to deepen partnerships in addressing shared regional challenges.

The meeting also took place shortly before President Tinubu’s scheduled visit to Jos, Plateau State, where he is expected to commiserate with victims of recent attacks.

Nigeria and Chad remain strategic partners within the Lake Chad Basin, a region that has faced persistent security threats, including insurgency and cross-border criminal activities.

Both countries have continued to work closely through joint initiatives and multilateral frameworks to combat instability and promote peace in the region.

President Déby’s visit is seen as a reaffirmation of the enduring diplomatic relationship between the two nations, as well as a renewed commitment to strengthening cooperation in tackling security challenges and fostering economic growth.

Analysts say the engagement further signals ongoing efforts by regional leaders to reinforce multilateral collaboration in the Lake Chad Basin and ensure sustainable stability across the region.

Wema Bank Clinches Double Honours at Global SME Awards for Driving Digital Lending Innovation

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Wema Bank Clinches Double Honours at Global SME Awards for Driving Digital Lending Innovation

Wema Bank has secured two major international accolades at the Global SME Banking Innovation Awards 2026, reinforcing its position as a leading force in expanding access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The bank emerged as SME Financier of the Year and also won Best SME Lending Product – Digital Bank, with the awards presented on March 12 in recognition of institutions demonstrating innovation, excellence, and measurable impact in SME banking globally.

The awards programme celebrates organisations that develop sustainable financial ecosystems and improve access to funding for small businesses, a critical driver of economic growth and entrepreneurship.

Reacting to the recognition, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Moruf Oseni, said the honours reflect the bank’s long-standing commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and strengthening Nigeria’s SME landscape.

He emphasised that SMEs remain the backbone of the economy, driving job creation and innovation, while noting that the bank has consistently gone beyond conventional banking to deliver tailored solutions for business growth.

According to Oseni, Wema Bank has built an integrated ecosystem that combines accessible financing, digital platforms, advisory services, and market opportunities designed to help entrepreneurs scale sustainably.

A standout feature of the awards was the bank’s MSME Instant Loan, which earned the Best SME Lending Product – Digital Bank recognition. The solution enables business owners to access collateral-free loans through a fully digital process, with approvals and disbursements completed within minutes.

Executive Director for Retail and Digital Banking, Tunde Mabawonku, said the achievement underscores the bank’s commitment to leveraging technology to simplify access to credit and break down long-standing barriers faced by small businesses.

Beyond lending, Wema Bank continues to deepen SME support through its digital banking ecosystem, including its flagship platform ALAT, as well as payment solutions, advisory services, and capacity-building initiatives.

Its women-focused programme, SARA by Wema, also plays a key role in empowering female entrepreneurs with targeted resources and opportunities to build sustainable enterprises.

With over 80 years of operations, the bank reaffirmed its commitment to advancing SME development through innovation, strategic partnerships, and technology-driven solutions aimed at fostering inclusive economic growth across Nigeria.

Tinubu Appoints New PTDF Boss, Renews TCN CEO Tenure to Drive Oil and Power Reforms

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Tinubu Appoints New PTDF Boss, Renews TCN CEO Tenure to Drive Oil and Power Reforms

ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved key leadership appointments in Nigeria’s energy sector, naming Professor Shu’aibu Shehu Aliyu as the new Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) and renewing the tenure of Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz as Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).

The appointments, announced in a statement on Thursday by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, take immediate effect.

Professor Aliyu succeeds Ahmed Galadima Aminu, who stepped down from the role to pursue his governorship ambition in Adamawa State ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Presidency described Aliyu as a seasoned academic and administrator with vast experience in research, education, and institutional leadership, noting that his appointment underscores the administration’s resolve to strengthen strategic institutions within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

According to the statement, the President expects the new PTDF chief to leverage his expertise to reposition the agency for enhanced performance, particularly in human capital development, innovation, and strategic support for the nation’s petroleum industry.

In the power sector, President Tinubu also approved a second and final term for Abdulaziz as head of the Transmission Company of Nigeria following what was described as a thorough review of his performance.

Under his leadership, TCN has recorded notable gains in grid stability, expansion of transmission capacity, and modernisation of the national electricity infrastructure.

The Presidency further highlighted Abdulaziz’s over 30 years of experience in the power sector, including his contributions to regional electricity integration through active engagement with the West African Power Pool (WAPP).

President Tinubu charged both appointees to demonstrate diligence, integrity, and commitment to national service, in line with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at revitalising critical sectors of the economy.

Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

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Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

The management and staff of Adron Homes and Properties Limited have joined family, friends, associates, and well-wishers across the globe to celebrate their Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, as he marks his 51st birthday.

In a statement released by the company, the milestone was described as a celebration of an exceptional leader whose vision, resilience, and entrepreneurial brilliance have not only transformed Adron Homes into a household name in Nigeria’s real estate sector but have also redefined affordable housing across the country.

Under his dynamic leadership, Adron Homes has continued to expand its footprint, delivering value-driven residential solutions while empowering thousands of Nigerians with opportunities for home ownership. His commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction has remained the driving force behind the company’s sustained growth and industry leadership.

The statement further highlighted Aare EmmanuelKing’s passion for nation-building and community development, noting his significant contributions to job creation, youth empowerment, and the promotion of socio-economic development through real estate investments.

“As a leader, mentor, and visionary, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing has consistently inspired a culture of excellence, integrity, and dedication within the organization. His ability to turn bold ideas into reality continues to position Adron Homes as a trailblazer in the industry,” the statement read.

The company expressed profound gratitude for his steadfast leadership and prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and sound health as he embarks on another year of impactful achievements.

As he celebrates his 51st birthday, the entire Adron Homes family proudly honours a man whose legacy continues to shape the future of real estate in Nigeria.

Happy 51st Birthday, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing!

World Bank Approves $500m for Nigeria’s Agriculture Transformation Project

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World Bank Approves $500m for Nigeria’s Agriculture Transformation Project

The World Bank has approved a $500 million International Development Association (IDA) credit to support Nigeria’s agricultural sector under the new Nigeria Sustainable Agricultural Value Chains for Growth Project, also known as AGROW.

The programme is designed to boost productivity for smallholder farmers, strengthen value chains, improve market access, and create jobs, while enhancing food and nutrition security nationwide. The approval date for the loan was March 30, 2026.

“Agriculture remains Nigeria’s largest source of employment, yet low productivity, limited access to quality inputs, climate shocks, and weak market linkages have constrained its potential,” the bank said in a statement.

“AGROW aims to unlock these opportunities through a results-based matching grant facility supporting agribusinesses that source produce from smallholder farmers.”

The project will prioritise key crops such as rice, maize, cassava, and soybeans and focus on aggregation, post-harvest handling, agro-processing, and improved market access. It also plans to strengthen agricultural research and extension services, expand access to climate-resilient seeds, and establish a national digital farm and farmer registry.

Farmers are expected to benefit from digital advisory services, including localized weather and climate information, while regulatory improvements for seed and fertiliser supply will enhance private sector participation in the production of high-quality inputs.

Mathew Verghis, World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, described AGROW as “a transformative step for Nigeria’s agriculture—empowering smallholder farmers, unlocking private sector–led growth, and strengthening food security sustainably.”

The six-year project, set to run from 2026 to 2032, is projected to benefit up to one million smallholder farmers and mobilise an additional $220 million in private agribusiness investment. It aligns with Nigeria’s objectives to boost agricultural productivity, create jobs, and transform smallholder farming into commercially viable agribusinesses.



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