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‘They’re my only source of livelihood’ – Herder cries after mysterious lightning struck cows in Ogun
It was a black Saturday for Abdullahi Idris, a father of six and herder who lost about 32 cows to lightning strikes recently in Osara, a village in Obantoko area of Abeokuta, in the Odeda Local Government area of Ogun State. It all started with the dark cloud, and then moved to the continuous whistle
‘They’re my only source of livelihood’ – Herder cries after mysterious lightning struck cows in Ogun
It was a black Saturday for Abdullahi Idris, a father of six and herder who lost about 32 cows to lightning strikes recently in Osara, a village in Obantoko area of Abeokuta, in the Odeda Local Government area of Ogun State.
It all started with the dark cloud, and then moved to the continuous whistle of the wind. To everyone, it was a normal rainfall, especially since it’s a wet season.
Sadly, it became a tragedy as 32 big cows worth over N32 million were stuck dead by thunderstorms at about 12 p.m.
The June 22 incident remains fresh in the memory of the community, as they are still gripped in shock over the occurrence that had never occurred.
Idris, the owner of the cows, described the incident as strange, lamenting that his only source of livelihood had been lost.
His words, “This has never happened before in all of my existence until now. Yes, I do hear about it on the radio but never witnessed it until now.
“There are only 4 small cows amidst them, the rest are about 1-1.5million naira each, multiplying this by 30 something cows, it is not small money.”
The herder begged the state government to come to his rescue, saying the cows were all he hoped on and the only property he had.
“I am begging the government because this doesn’t belong to just me. I have 8 siblings and 6 children. These cows are all we hoped for, our property, nothing else. All my children are still school-goers and this is what I use in sending them to school,” Idris added in an emotion – laden voice.
The god of thunder and lightning (Sango) was angry?
While there are mixed speculations over the incidents, the
Oba Isegun General of Ewekoro Local Government, Oba Ololade Sunday, has opined that the incident was an indication that Sango, the Yoruba god of thunder and lightning was angry.
DAILY POST reports that Sango is primarily associated with thunder, lightning, and fire.
His symbol is the double-headed axe, representing his swift and balanced judgment.
Oba Sunday said there was no reason to be alarmed because it was only involving animals and not humans.
However, he advised everyone to be cautious, saying the occurrence suggested that there was something suspicious going on in the neighborhood.
“The traditions have been existing before our forefathers, and it’s real.
“The meaning is that the god of thunder, we call him Sango…there is something around that area that is fishy that annoys the god of thunder.
“If it strikes a human being with those cows, there would be a calamity. The worshippers of the god of thunder would be the one to do the burial with the sacrifice, if not you would see numbers of people in that vicinity dying.
“But since it’s an animal there’s not much case to answer, there is no cause for alarm, everyone should just be careful,” he warned.
It’s a natural occurrence – Ogun Official
The Director, Water Supply and Environmental Sanitation, in Odeda Local Government, Sanitarian Kehinde Adeyemi, insisted that the incident was a natural occurrence.
Adeyemi noted that as far as they were concerned, nothing extraordinary would be attached as, thunder strike could occur any time.
She said, “As far as public health is concerned, we don’t attach any extraordinary thing to what happened here.
“Thunder strikes can occur any time. It is a natural occurrence or disaster that can happen at any time.”
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She revealed that in contrast to the 32 cows reported, only 28 carcasses were found, and they would be buried, assuring members of the public that every effort was being made to stop the spread of communicable diseases.
“Immediately the case was heard, we swung into action immediately. We are here to contain the spread of communicable diseases as a result of the death of the cows.
“According to our calculations, we can only count 28, we only saw 28 and they are going to be buried here.
“We pray that in no time everything will be put under control,” she stated.
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She noted that the officers on ground had already carried out decontamination, disinfection and all other public health duties regarding environmental health.
“Before the burial of the carcass, the officer had poured in the lime and the tractor would put the carcass inside the pit we dug, after that we would introduce other chemicals before we cover it and after that, the general decontamination process would be done to prevent any disease,” the Director concluded.
No issues between herders and community members – CDA Chairman
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Community Development Association, CDA, Osikoya Ademola, has maintained that there was no grudge or issues between the herders and community members that might have sparked resentment or contributed to the tragedy.
Ademola admitted that although they had complained about the flies and other offensive odour coming out from the grazing field, they have always been on good terms.
He said, “I’m surprised because it’s unfortunate and I have never seen this kind of disaster in this environment since I started governing the CDAs.
“Although we have been complaining to them that the environment is now evolving, we asked them to evacuate this place and go extra mile because most people that live close complain about flies and others.
“That has been the major thing we complain about, but we don’t have anything against them or issues that would have caused a grudge or anything leading to this”.
He lamented that following the incident, the environment had not been conducive and called on the state government to intervene.
Ogun Speaker calls for State Government intervention
Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, described the incident as unfortunate and significant, insisting that it was a natural occurrence and the cows were in the path of the lightning.
Elemide commiserated with the owner of the cow, and urged the state government to look into the incident, in order to lessen the financial burden on the owner.
He said, “It’s rather unfortunate, 32 big cows were affected and they all died on the spot. I think they were grazing and it coincided that they were in the path of the lightning.
“It’s not a Fulani settlement or a Yoruba settlement. It’s in a bush and I feel it’s a natural occurrence.
“Since we believe it’s a natural occurrence, the state government via the relevant agencies should come to their aid.
“We are not saying they should pay for all the cows but something must be done by the state.”
He maintained that all hands must be on deck, urging relevant authorities to do all they can to prevent the outbreak of cholera or epidemic in the area.
The speaker, however, implored members of the public to remain calm, saying, “There is no conflict between Yorubas and herders in that area. Even the Fulani’s involved are not the foreigners, they were born here, built houses and even inter-married, so there is no conflict between the indigenes”.
Chairman of Odeda local government, Folashade Adeyemo, while thanking God that no life was lost in the process, assured members of the communities that immediate actions will be taken to ensure evacuation of the carcass.
‘They’re my only source of livelihood’ – Herder cries after mysterious lightning struck cows in Ogun
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APC Fixes NEC for July 24 as Dalori Assumes Office, Urges Unity at This Period
APC Fixes NEC for July 24 as Dalori Assumes Office, Urges Unity at This Period
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has revealed that the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting would be held on Thursday, 24th July, 2025, at the party’s national secretariat.
This was as the acting National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Ali Dalori, has called on all party members and stakeholders to stay united, saying they must not allow the political transitions to breed disunity.
However, the Deputy National Secretary of the party, Festus Fuanter, disclosed the proposed NEC spoke after Monday’s National Working Committee (NWC) meeting.
He said the meeting would afford the party to nominate a fresh national chairman for the party.
“The National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting will be held on Thursday, 24th July, 2025, at the Party’s National Secretariat. Deputy National Secretary, Barr. Festus Fuanter, disclosed this after Monday’s National Working Committee (NWC) meeting.
“A notice for the NEC meeting has already been dispatched to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),” Fauanter stated.
Dalori, on assumption of office, said members must avoid actions and words that would divide them and focus on what binds them. He stated this in Abuja during his meeting with the NWC.
He acknowledged the significant contributions Ganduje made during his tenure, adding that since his assumption of office in August 2023, he provided the party with experienced leadership, steadfast commitment, and a clear sense of direction.
“My appointment to this role is not a personal victory. It is a responsibility I embrace with full awareness of the challenges ahead and the expectations of millions of our members and supporters across the nation,” he said.
Dalori said as someone who had served faithfully within this party and as a longstanding member of the NWC, he assured of his dedication to carrying out his role with transparency, inclusiveness, and unity of purpose.
“This is a period for consolidation — not conflict. For maturity — not division. And for vision — not personal ambition.
“We must keep our eyes on the bigger picture: delivering good governance to the Nigerian people, deepening democracy within our party structures, and preparing for the future with clarity and determination.
“As we head toward 2027, we must begin now to strengthen our internal processes, reconnect with our grassroots, and re-energise our structures across all levels.
“The APC remains the political vehicle to drive this transformation, and we will stand by the President in full loyalty and partnership.
“To all party members and stakeholders, I urge us to stay united. Political transitions often create uncertainty, but we must not allow it to breed disunity. We must avoid actions and words that divide us and focus on what binds us — our shared belief in the promise of Nigeria and the future of the APC.
“In the days ahead, I will share with you a practical roadmap to guide our work during this interim period. It will cover key areas such as party discipline, reconciliation, communication, member mobilisation, and broader stakeholder engagement,” Dalori added.
National Secretary of the party, Senator Suraj Ajibola, presented Ganduje’s resignation letter before the NWC
He said: “The formal motion was moved for the acceptance of the resignation and it was ably seconded. And in line with Article 14 of our constitution, the motion was equally moved that the Deputy National Chairman of NWC, Hon.
“Ali Bukar Dalori, assumed the office of the acting National Chairman pending the time that the office of National Chairman will be filled by the National Executive Committee of the party.”
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has revealed that the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting would be held on Thursday, 24th
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Peter Obi Hints at Possible Run in 2027 Presidential Election
Peter Obi Hints at Possible Run in 2027 Presidential Election
•Says he’s willing to do one term in office, denies any joint ticket with Atiku
•Pledges to stablise country, highlights agenda for national rebirth
Chuks Okocha in Abuja
Labour Party’s standard bearer in 2023, Peter Obi, has again hinted his numerous supporters at home and abroad that he would likely contest the presidency in 2027 and would be willing to do one term in office.
According to a statement by his media aide, Ibrahim Umar, Obi posted on his X handle his engagements with his supporters where provided answers to their concerns on topical national issues. He declared his intention to run for the presidency in 2027: “I have not joined in any form of discussion on joint tickets including with Atiku.
“If there is any form of agreement that will restrict me to four years in office, I will comply with the agreement and be ready to leave office by 28th May, 2031,” he said.
Obi acknowledged being involved in coalition talks because of his desire to rescue Nigeria from the drift by aligning with all patriotic Nigerians.
He said, “If the coalition is not about stopping the killings in Benue, Zamfara, how to revive our economy, how to make our industries productive, how to put food on the tables of Nigerians… Count me out. Nigeria is currently at war. We need to do something about it.”
Obi urged Nigerians to see the need to rescue this country with him, saying, “I will bring stability in Nigeria within two years in office. Leaders of Nigeria should sit down in Nigeria and fix Nigeria
On the situation in the Labour Party, Obi said they were working round the clock to get INEC to endorse the Nenadi Usman-led Labour Party based on the Supreme Court ruling.
Speaking on the rotation of the Presidency between the North and the South, Obi said, “I believe in the rotation of government between North and South. I implemented it in Anambra as a governor.”
Answering questions on President Tinubu’s visit to St Lucia Obi noted that, “In two years, Tinubu has not spent one night in any state in Nigeria apart from Lagos, yet he is going to spend 8 nights in St Lucia, a place smaller than Ajegunle.
“St Lucia is about the size of the 10th largest city of Nigeria, Ilorin. President Tinubu has never slept a night in any state of Nigeria outside Lagos since the assumption of office in 2023. PBAT to stay in St Lucia for 10 days.”
On his preparation for the election, the former Presidential Candidate remarked: “We will do things differently in 2027. We will follow a non-violent approach and insist that the right thing will be done before the result announcement in Abuja. Our votes in 2027 will count, and we will ensure they count.
“Three things to follow up with in the first 100 days… prioritise security, education and poverty eradication; cut costs and shun corruption. My family will not be involved in corruption. Funds to be channelled into key critical sectors.
“My Presidency will ensure there is a strong opposition in party politics. There will be no defection of elected officials to other parties when I am in charge.
“Imagine in this country, People are dying in Benue, Borno, (and other parts of the country), and our leaders are commissioning Bus Stops and holidaying.
“To bring order in governance, I will prioritise security, education and pulling people out of poverty. To do this is by cutting the cost of governance and fighting corruption from day one.
“My past speaks loudly for me. Wherever there was an issue in Anambra State, I was there physically. Anybody who wants to serve should be ready to put even their life on the line for the lives of Nigerians. Nobody abroad takes you seriously if you don’t have a stable government.”
•Says he’s willing to do one term in office, denies any joint ticket with Atiku •Pledges to stablise country, highlights agenda for national rebirth Chuks Okocha in Abuja Labour Party’s
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In Major Feat for Continent, First Pan-African Card Scheme, PAPSSCARD Launched
In Major Feat for Continent, First Pan-African Card Scheme, PAPSSCARD Launched
•Afreximbank’s initiative to lower transaction fees across borders, boost intra-Africa trade, others
James Emejo in Abuja
The continent’s first Pan-African card scheme, PAPSSCARD was launched yesterday in Abuja, marking a significant step towards financial independence.
The new card was unveiled last week at the 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings in Abuja.
The breakthrough represented a major leap in the continent’s efforts to achieve financial sovereignty by building resilient and independent payment systems, easing people’s travel, and boosting trade integration.
Essentially, PAPSSCARD, a joint venture between Afreximbank, the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), and Mercury Payment Services (MPS), enables fast, secure, and affordable retail payments across African borders.
Today, most African card payments are routed through global systems, causing increased fees and loss of data control.
However, by processing transactions entirely within the continent, PAPSSCARD keeps value, data, and economic benefits in Africa.
Speaking at the launch, Afreximbank President/Chairman, Board of Directors, Prof. Benedict Oramah, highlighted the significance of the card scheme in reclaiming Africa’s financial autonomy.
He said, “For too long, Africa’s reliance on external payment systems has impeded trade, increased costs, and compromised control over our financial data. PAPSSCARD changes that. It empowers us to move money swiftly, securely, and affordably across our borders.
“It is a transformative step towards strengthening intra-African trade and preserving value within the continent.”
Chief Executive of PAPSS, Mike Ogbalu III, described the card as a major advancement in the continent’s financial architecture, adding that it is “more than just a payment tool, it is a powerful symbol of progress and a bold step towards financial independence.”
He said the card reflected Africa’s ability to create practical, home-grown solutions that align with how the continent trades, lives, and grows.
On his part, Executive Chairman of MPS, Muzaffer Khokhar, said the launch represented a milestone in Africa’s move toward financial sovereignty.
He said, “We are proud to support a system built by Africa, for Africa. This is about sovereignty, innovation, and building trust in African systems to shape the continent’s financial future.
“The PAPSS Card will become Africa’s most trusted payments brand, strengthening the backbone of the continent’s financial future.”
Acting Chief Executive of PAPSSCARD, John Bosco Sebabi, said the new payment offering will unlock benefits for a wide range of stakeholders, from corporates and banks to merchants and individuals.
He said PAPSSCARD card would “reduce costs for public institutions, support innovation across the financial sector, and expand access to secure, modern payment tools for people and businesses across the continent.”
Commemorative cards were unveiled at the 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings to mark the launch of the card.
The initiative was made possible by strategic partnerships with issuing banks – Bank of Kigali and I&M Bank Rwanda; Rswitch, Rwanda’s national switch – Smart Cash; and Unified Payments, ensuring its seamless acceptance throughout Nigeria.
With the development, African central banks and payment systems are set to spearhead the continent-wide adoption and rollout of the new PAPSSCARD.
The initiative will significantly advance Afreximbank’s strategy to promote financial inclusion and boost intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), fostering a more integrated and self-sustaining African economy, according to a statement by Afreximbank.
•Afreximbank’s initiative to lower transaction fees across borders, boost intra-Africa trade, others James Emejo in Abuja The continent’s first Pan-African card scheme, PAPSSCARD was launched yesterday in Abuja, marking a
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NECA Commends Tinubu for Pegging FRC Levy at N25m
NECA Commends Tinubu for Pegging FRC Levy at N25m
•Calls for final legislative amendment
Dike Onwuamaeze
The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive action in capping the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) levy at ₦25 million for Public Interest Entities (PIEs), including unlisted companies.
Speaking in Lagos, the Director-General NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, described the move as a landmark moment for Nigeria’s private sector, restoring confidence and reducing the regulatory burden previously imposed by the open-ended levy in Section 33 of the FRC (Amendment) Act 2023.
Oyerinde also applauded the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, for her inclusive leadership in facilitating a multi-stakeholder Technical Working Group that included NECA and other key private sector players.
He noted that the adoption of the group’s proposals, calling for a moratorium, a levy cap, and legislative amendment, reflected responsive and evidence-based governance.
NECA emphasided that the policy alignment between listed and unlisted companies would enhance equity, supports job creation, and frees up capital for enterprise growth.
The association also recognised the strategic timing of this reform alongside the recent signing of four transformative tax laws aimed at streamlining Nigeria’s fiscal architecture and boosting MSME competitiveness.
Oyerinde also urged the federal government to promptly transmit a clean amendment bill to the National Assembly to formally embed the N25 million cap in law and ensure full legal clarity before the 2026 fiscal year.
“Regulatory certainty is the lifeblood of investment,” he said, adding that the president’s decision sent a strong message that Nigeria listens, adapts, and is open for sustainable business.
•Calls for final legislative amendment Dike Onwuamaeze The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive action in capping the Financial Reporting Council (FRC)
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Forfeiture: Court Begins Hearing in Alison-Madueke’s Suit against EFCC October 6
Forfeiture: Court Begins Hearing in Alison-Madueke’s Suit against EFCC October 6
Alex Enumah in Abuja
The Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, adjourned till October 6, for a definite hearing in the suit filed by former Petroleum Minister, Deziani Allison-Madueke, challenging the forfeiture of some of her assets to the federal government.
Justice Mohammed Umar fixed the date after lawyers representing parties in the suit identified and regularised their processes in the matter.
When the case was mentioned yesterday, Alison-Madueke’s lawyer, Mr. Godwin Inyinbor, told the court that the matter was for hearing but that they were served with two motions to which they had responded.
Responding, counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Mofesomo Oyetibo, SAN, informed the court that he was appearing in the matter for the first time.
While also admitting that the matter was coming before him for the first time, trial judge, Justice Umar subsequently adjourned the matter until October 6 for definite hearing.
The former petroleum minister in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/21/2023, prayed the court to extend the time to apply for an order to set aside the EFCC’s public notice issued for the sale of her properties, because the orders for the forfeiture of her assets were made without jurisdiction.
Alison-Madueke submitted that she was denied fair hearing in the proceedings that led to the forfeiture orders.
Among the reliefs she is seeking from the court includes; the voiding of the EFCC’s public notice on the sale of her properties.
She contended that the various court orders issued in favour of the EFCC violated her constitutional right to fair hearing as enshrined in Section 36 (1) of the 1999 Constitution.
She further claimed that she was never served with the charge sheet, proof of evidence or summons regarding the charge against her.
Besides, the plaintiff argued that the court was misled into granting the forfeiture order due to the suppression or non-disclosure of critical information.
On its part, the anti-graft agency wants the court to dismiss the case because she had been properly brought before the court.
According to the commission, the application for final forfeiture of the said assets had been properly instituted and conducted following all legal requirements.
The EFCC in addition, pointed out that the properties had been duly disposed of following the court’s order, which had been made in 2017 and which had not been overturned on appeal.
Alex Enumah in Abuja The Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, adjourned till October 6, for a definite hearing in the suit filed by former Petroleum Minister, Deziani Allison-Madueke, challenging
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NCDMB to Champion Nigeria First Policy in Oil, Gas Sector, Revamps N50bn Community Contractors Fund
NCDMB to Champion Nigeria First Policy in Oil, Gas Sector, Revamps N50bn Community Contractors Fund
Peter Uzoho in Abuja
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has pledged its full commitment to implementing the recently introduced ‘Nigeria First’ policy.
The policy is a key directive of President Bola Tinubu’s administration aimed at boosting local production and patronage of locally made goods and services, reducing dependence on imported items.
The Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Mr. Felix Ogbe announced the board’s commitment to the policy at the ongoing Nigerian Oil and Gas (NOG) Energy Week in Abuja, yesterday.
Ogbe described the policy as a strong reinforcement of the board’s core mandate of promoting Nigerian Content in the oil and gas industry.
“For Nigeria, energy sufficiency goes beyond availability, it is about building resilience, ensuring sustainability, and protecting our sovereignty. That is why we say local content is not just a policy, it is a strategic imperative.” he noted.
Speaking on the theme, “Achieving Energy Sufficiency through Local Content implementation”, Ogbe observed that achieving energy sufficiency will require deepening Nigeria’s local capabilities across the oil and gas value chain from exploration and production to processing, manufacturing, and services.
He said prioritising local capacity would not only retain economic value within Nigeria but also mitigate supply disruptions, create jobs, and foster technological growth.
The ‘Nigeria First’ policy is the latest in a series of government interventions designed to strengthen domestic content.
The NCDMB boss referenced landmark initiatives such as the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act 2010, Executive Orders 001 and 005, and the Presidential Directives on Local Content issued in 2023, which were aligned with President Tinubu’s 8-Point Agenda.
According to Ogbe, the new policy is rooted in a clear principle: all goods or services that are produced and/or available locally will not be procured from foreign sources unless there is a clear and justifiable reason.
“This aligns with Section 3(1) of the NOGICD Act, which mandates first consideration for Nigerian made goods and services provided they meet industry standards”, he said.
The executive secretary pointed that to translate the policy into action, the board announced a series of implementation steps which include the development of a dedicated ‘Nigeria First Procurement Policy’ for the Board, integration of the policy into internal systems, and its application in the review of Nigerian Content Plans (NCPs), Compliance Certifications, and Authorisation Certificates.
He disclosed further that NCDMB will commission two major baseline studies to verify the capacities of Nigerian service providers and to identify locally manufactured consumables used in the oil and gas sector.
“The Nigeria First policy is a bold commitment to national pride, industrial competence, and long-term economic sustainability. At the NCDMB, we are prepared to lead the charge in making this vision a reality.” Ogbe committed.
Similarly, NCDMB has unveiled a restructured approach to its N50 billion Community Contractors Financing Scheme — a key component of the Nigerian Content Intervention (NCI) Fund.
Originally launched in 2018 to support indigenous contractors from oil-producing host communities, the Community Contractors Fund had recorded little traction until recent efforts under the current executive secretary, Ogbe set the scheme on a path to revival.
Moderating a session on “Deepening Community Participation Through Accessible Financing,” NCDMB’s General Manager, Corporate Communications, Dr. Obinna Ezeobi, noted that while other products under the NCI Fund have performed remarkably well, the Community Contractors Fund had lagged behind.
He attributed the renewed focus on the scheme to the executive secretary’s personal commitment to grassroots empowerment.
General Manager, Nigerian Content Development Fund, Ms. Fatima Mohammed noted that new features had been introduced to the fund.
The restructured fund allows for increased borrowing limits — up to N100 million for community contractors in the oil and gas industry, with single digit interest rate per annum.
Beneficiaries must be verified community contractors with valid projects for international or indigenous oil and gas companies.
The board also introduced simplified collateral terms, and plans to carry out extensive sensitization programmes, with disbursements expected in the coming months.
She added: “We want to see host communities actively participate in the oil and gas ecosystem. After a comprehensive review, we discovered that the centralised structure of the scheme was limiting its effectiveness. We’ve now decentralised it through the involvement of Performing Financial Institutions (PFIs),” she said.
Speaking on the panel, Head of Oil and Gas, Bank of Industry (BOI), Mr. Gabriel Yemidale, who acknowledged past challenges in implementing the scheme, expressed optimism about the renewed collaboration between BOI, NCDMB, and selected PFIs such as FCMB.
“We didn’t abandon the scheme. What was missing was alignment. With FCMB now on board and funds already allocated, we expect much better reach at the grassroots. BOI will also ensure monthly loan performance reports and quarterly visits to beneficiaries to monitor impact,” Yemidale said.
Head of Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Assets at FCMB, Oluremi Agboola, described the bank as a “go-to partner” for SME financing and affirmed its readiness to drive the fund’s success.
“We would likely revisit our interest rates to make the product more affordable — thanks to the ES’s impact-driven push. We are also offering financial literacy, monitoring and evaluation training, and business support through the FCMB Business Zone,” Agboola noted.
They informed that eligibility is limited to the firms with N500,000 annual turnover, to ensure participation and impact on small contractors.
Peter Uzoho in Abuja The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has pledged its full commitment to implementing the recently introduced ‘Nigeria First’ policy. The policy is a key
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FG Partners UNODC to Strengthen Response to Minerals’ Financed Terrorism
FG Partners UNODC to Strengthen Response to Minerals’ Financed Terrorism
Folalumi Alaran in Abuja
The Federal Government and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) are partnering to strengthen Nigeria’s response to criminal and terrorist finance related to minerals.
Consulting the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake recently, officials of the UN agency said the project, funded by the Canadian government, will strengthen the capacity of criminal justice actors in the detection, investigation and prosecution of illicit financial flows associated with conflict financing, including the financing of armed groups and money laundering in the solid minerals sector.
UNODC’s Project Co-ordinator on counter-terrorism, Mr. Tom Parker, who led a team including project officers Inneke Geysens-Bourgions and Nicole Andersen, praised the minister for the establishment of the Mining Marshals and other measures to combat illegal mining, adding that the agency will work with the ministry to implement the project.
Responding, Alake expressed delight at the significant support that the project would give to the efforts of the federal government to combat illegal mining and other crimes funded by proceeds of illicit mining of natural resources.
He explained that the Mining Marshals were created from the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps to avoid the constitutional challenges of setting up a new security outfit.
“In the illegal mining area, we set up the Mining Marshals. When I got in here, I discovered we needed a new security architecture specifically for the mining sector. I sought the permission of Mr. President to set up Mining Marshals, and they’ve been doing a good job arresting and prosecuting illegal miners.
“The essence is to send a strong message that it can’t be business as usual. And it is yielding salutary effects. A lot of operators are trying to regularise their operations and are obeying the mining laws, “he said.
The minister said the president has approved a new satellite monitoring system for mines to further curb malpractices and enable the security operatives to identify the location of the incident and mobilise the necessary forces to the site.
Folalumi Alaran in Abuja The Federal Government and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) are partnering to strengthen Nigeria’s response to criminal and terrorist finance related to
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MTN Launches $120m Data Centre, Local Cloud with 4.5MW Capacity
MTN Launches $120m Data Centre, Local Cloud with 4.5MW Capacity
Emma Okonji
MTN Nigeria will today launch Phase 1 of its Tier III Data Centre and local cloud located in Ikeja, with a total – expandable – IT capacity load of 4.5 megawatts.
According to MTN, the data centre infrastructure cost $100 million, while the local cloud infrastructure cost $20 million, totalling $120 million.
Known as Sifiso Dabengwa Data Centre, the centre would be Nigeria’s largest pre-fabricated modular data, with 96 pre-fabricated containers, and a total rack capacity of about 1,500, which is fully modular in power and cooling, and it occupies three floors.
Speaking about the planned launch of the data centre during a press conference in Lagos yesterday, Chief Executive Officer, MTN Nigeria, Dr. Karl Toriola, said the data centre would bring a lot of transformation to the Nigeria technology ecosystem, since its services will be offered through pay-as-you-use, and it would be priced in Naira.
Toriola said, “With the data centre launch, MTN is at the forefront of Nigeria’s digital space, and ready to drive Artificial Intelligence (AI) needs across the country, as we expand the capacity of the data centre facility.
“In addition to that, the data centre will enhance Nigeria’s data sovereignty and ensure that local data are hosted in Nigeria and that the data are also protected from exposure and attacks.
“MTN is working closely with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to ensure compliance with data policy.”
Speaking on the advantages of the data centre to Nigerian businesses, both large and small enterprises, Toriola said it would reduce cost of doing business, since businesses would be paying for the services in Naira.
According to him, the data centre will provide cost-effective solutions to businesses that will enable them to host their data in Nigeria, boost quality of service delivery, and comply with the NDPC policy on data sovereignty.
on the cost element, Chief Enterprise Business Officer, MTN Nigeria, Lynda Saint-Nwafor, said, “It cost MTN the sum of $100 million for the Phase 1 data centre infrastructure, with additional $20 million for the cloud infrastructure.”
According to Saint-Nwafor, the data centre will reduce latency, enhance customers’ experience in data computing and storage, especially during the on-boarding process.
She stated, “The MTN Data Centre will offer self-orchestration data platform that will allow users to log into the cloud service from any part of the world to develop solutions.”
Saint-Nwafor added that the MTN Cloud offered more and easily accessible services than those offered by hyperscalers, like Google, Amazon Wireless, and Microsoft Azure.
Senior Consultant, MTN Enterprise Solutions, Ifeanyi Otudor, explained that the data centre was built to support everything, right from the high data traffic in the fintech space, to the e-government platforms today and in the future.
Otudor said, “The data centre effectively puts MTN in the position to address the co-location needs of the enterprise business, the different businesses, including government entities as well, that are looking to offload that responsibility to experts like us over the period.
“In addition to that, we also have about 2.5 MB and a 3.15 MB transformer for the grid system, in addition to standby generators to power the data centre.”
Emma Okonji MTN Nigeria will today launch Phase 1 of its Tier III Data Centre and local cloud located in Ikeja, with a total – expandable – IT capacity load
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- July 1, 2025
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216 Chinese Investors Indicate Interest to Invest in Nigeria
216 Chinese Investors Indicate Interest to Invest in Nigeria
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja
Ahead of the Nigeria-China Sustainable Business Bilateral Trade and Investment Summit, slated to hold in October this year, no fewer than 216 Chinese investors have indicated interest to explore opportunities in Nigeria.
This is as 295 Chief Executive Officers, CEOs from reputable organizations in Nigeria and China, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas and four governors among other leaders and captains of industry have concluded a meeting on widening investment opportunities between Nigeria and China.
The Summit which was held at Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos was organized by the National Assembly in partnership with Merited Negotiation Consulting.
It brought together key stakeholders from Nigeria and China to explore opportunities for sustainable business collaborations and investments:
The four governors that attended the summit are Sheriff Oborovwori of Delta State, Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano), and Demola Adeleke (Osun).
Also present were the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar; Blue Economy and Marine, Adegboyega Oyetola; Solid Minerals, Dele Alake; Amb. Yu Duhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria; Yan Yuqing, Chinese Consular General, Lagos; Ye Shuijin, President of China Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria and Tristan Cui, Director General, China Chamber of Commerce.
A statement by Kunle Yusuff, Executive Vice-Chairman/CEO, Merited Negotiation Consulting, in Abuja explained that an engagement with China Embassy and China Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria on the issue of Visa processing and enabling environment for participation of Nigeria’s CEOs who will be attending China Summit was on top gear.
Yusuff described the Nigeria-China Sustainable Business Bilateral Trade and Investment Summit as a resounding success.
According to him, the summit which “featured high-level participation from Nigerian and Chinese government officials, business leaders, and investors, had in attendance 175 CEOs of known Nigeria companies, 115 CEOs of Chinese Companies in China, 65 Business leaders and Entrepreneurs, 25 Financial Advisors, 17 State Chairmen, Chamber of Commerce, 10 Serving House of Representatives Committee members, 56 Federal Government Officials from various MDAs, 7 Free Trade Zones, including Delta State Special Economic Free Trade Zone, Lekki Free Trade Zones Company, Alaro City Free Trade Zone, Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone (OGFTZ).”
He said that the summit provided a platform for meaningful engagements between Nigerian and Chinese businesses, leading to several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and partnership agreements.
Yusuff said: “The summit highlighted various investment opportunities in Nigeria, including infrastructure development, agriculture, and manufacturing. The summit facilitated knowledge sharing on sustainable business practices, trade, and investment between Nigeria and China.
“This summit has provided a valuable platform for Nigerian and Chinese businesses to explore opportunities for collaboration and investment. The participants were impressed by the potential for sustainable business collaborations between Nigeria and China, and look forward to exploring the opportunity to participate in the China Summit is 16th of October 2025”.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Ahead of the Nigeria-China Sustainable Business Bilateral Trade and Investment Summit, slated to hold in October this year, no fewer than 216 Chinese investors have indicated
