News

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Ogun II Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commended its officers for their dedication and professionalism after recording a total revenue of ₦32.46 billion in the 2024 fiscal year.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the command headquarters in Abeokuta on Thursday, February 6, 2025, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Olusola Alade, attributed the milestone to the hard work and efficiency of the command’s personnel.

“This remarkable growth is a testament to our officers’ commitment to duty and our unwavering dedication to strengthening the national economy,” he stated.

Alade also praised the Customs Intelligence Unit, Monitoring Unit, and Customs Police Unit for their contributions to compliance and enforcement, which played a significant role in boosting revenue.

In addition, he expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi MFR, for his leadership and policy direction, which he said had enhanced excise duty collection and industrial monitoring.

Acknowledging the role of businesses in compliance, Alade applauded traders and manufacturers who have adhered to customs regulations and encouraged more businesses to follow suit to support economic growth.

Providing further insights into the command’s achievements, he disclosed that revenue for January 2025 alone stood at ₦4.34 billion, representing a 104% increase compared to the ₦2.14 billion collected in the same period last year.

He also highlighted that improved monitoring of Free Trade Zones, particularly the Ogun Guangdong, Ceplast, and Flourmill Free Trade Zone, had significantly contributed to the revenue increase.

Additionally, the command identified four unlicensed factories—Evita Moore, Lekan Industries, Scarlet Eagle Ltd, and IBK Ventures—which were operating without proper authorisation.

These factories have now been placed under excise control and are undergoing registration.

Affirming the command’s commitment to enhancing revenue generation, facilitating trade, and enforcing national security, Alade assured that Ogun II Customs would continue striving for operational excellence to support Nigeria’s economic development.

By Iranloye Sofiu Taiye

The recent decision by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has triggered reactions of uncertainty across the geopolitical landscape of West Africa. This unprecedented move, announced in January 2024, marks a critical juncture for a bloc historically revered as a beacon of regional integration and collective security. The departure of these three Sahelian nations, all grappling with military rule, jihadist insurgencies, and socioeconomic fragility threatens to destabilize the delicate equilibrium of ECOWAS, undermining its credibility and operational efficacy.

ECOWAS was founded in 1975 via the Treaty of Lagos Nigeria, ECOWAS emerged as a post-colonial vision to foster economic integration, political solidarity, and collective self-reliance among West African states. Its architects envisioned a regional powerhouse capable of rivaling global economic blocs, anchored by principles of free movement, a common market, and monetary union. Over the decades, ECOWAS evolved beyond economics, establishing itself as a custodian of democratic norms through protocols such as the 2001 Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which condemned any form of unconstitutional government changes.

The bloc’s peacekeeping ventures, notably the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) interventions in Liberia (1990), and Sierra Leone (1997) demonstrated its capacity to mediate conflict. However, ECOWAS has also faced perennial challenges including coups d’état, governance failures, and the paradox between its lofty ideals and the grim realities of poverty and instability. The recent wave of military takeovers in Mali (2020, 2021), Burkina Faso (2022), and Niger (2023), each met with ECOWAS sanctions and suspensions exposed cracks in the bloc’s authority, heralding the current crisis.

The withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger strikes at the heart of ECOWAS’s political legitimacy. These nations, representing 10% of the bloc’s population and vast territorial expanse, have denounced ECOWAS as a “tool of foreign powers” and accused it of imposing punitive measures that exacerbate their populations’ suffering. Their exit underscores a broader regional disillusionment with ECOWAS’s perceived alignment with Western interests, particularly France, amid rising anti-colonial sentiment.

For ECOWAS, the secession weakens its bargaining power on continental and global stages. The bloc’s ability to enforce democratic norms is now in jeopardy, emboldening other authoritarian regimes and eroding its moral authority. Moreover, the formation of the “Alliance of Sahel States” (AES) by the three nations — a mutual defense pact aligned with Russia — signals a shift toward alternative alliances, potentially fracturing West Africa into competing spheres of influence. This realignment risks destabilizing the region further, as rival powers like Russia, China, and Western nations vie for strategic footholds.

Economically, the departure of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger disrupts ECOWAS’s integration agenda. The bloc’s flagship projects — such as the ECOWAS Single Currency (Eco), slated for 2027—face existential threats. These nations collectively contribute critical mineral resources (gold, uranium) and agricultural output, and their absence could fragment supply chains, inflate intra-regional trade costs, and deter foreign investment.

The free movement protocol, a cornerstone of ECOWAS, may also unravel. Border closures and visa restrictions could follow, stifling cross-border commerce and cultural exchange. Nigeria, which accounts for over 60% of ECOWAS’s GDP, stands to lose significantly: its northern states rely on trade with Niger, while its industries depend on regional markets. The exodus may also derail infrastructure projects like the Kano – Maradi rail project hampering economic growth.

As ECOWAS’s traditional hegemon, Nigeria must spearhead the bloc’s response to this crisis. Historically, Nigeria has bankrolled ECOWAS initiatives and mediated conflicts, but its recent influence has waned amid domestic challenges—security crises, economic stagnation, and diplomatic inertia. To reclaim its leadership, Nigeria must adopt a multi-pronged strategy:

Diplomatic Re-engagement: Nigeria should initiate high-level dialogues with the AES states, addressing grievances while advocating a return to constitutional order. Leveraging its cultural and economic ties — particularly with Niger, with whom it shares a 1,600km border — Nigeria must balance firmness with empathy, avoiding the perception of bullying.
Institutional Reforms: ECOWAS requires structural revitalization. Nigeria should champion reforms to decentralize decision-making, reduce Francophone-Anglophone tensions, and prioritize grassroots economic integration. A revised governance framework, incorporating civil society and youth voices, could restore public trust.

Security Collaboration: The Sahel’s jihadist insurgencies, which have spilled into Nigeria’s northwest, demand a unified approach. Nigeria could propose a joint ECOWAS-AES security task force, blending counterterrorism efforts with development programs to undercut extremism.
Economic Incentives: To lure back the AES, Nigeria could advocate for sanctions relief tied to democratic transitions, coupled with debt forgiveness and infrastructure investments. A Marshall Plan-like initiative for the Sahel, funded by ECOWAS and international partners, might alleviate poverty fueling instability.
Conclusively, the exit of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS is not merely a regional setback but a clarion call for introspection. The bloc’s survival hinges on its ability to reconcile idealism with pragmatism, balancing democratic principles with the urgent needs of fractured states. Nigeria, as the region’s linchpin, must rise to the occasion, blending visionary leadership with humility. In an era of shifting global alliances and resurgent authoritarianism, the stakes could not be higher: without decisive action, the dream of West African unity may dissolve into a mosaic of discord, leaving millions vulnerable to the storms of history.

Iranloye Sofiu Taiye can be reached via:
iranloye100@gmail.com

By Anwar Usman

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has taken legal action against the President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, over his alleged failure to prosecute contractors who received over N167bn from 31 ministries, departments, and agencies for projects that were never executed.

The lawsuit, filed last Friday at the Federal High Court in Lagos (suit number FHC/L/MISC/121/2025), also listed the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, as a respondent.

This was contained in a press release on Sunday titled, “SERAP Sues Tinubu Over Failure to Prosecute Contractors in N167bn Project Fraud in MDAs.”

The release, signed by Deputy Director, SERAP Kolawole Oluwadare, urges the court to compel Tinubu to direct the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, to publicly name the contractors involved and ensure their prosecution.

The organisation is also seeking a court order that’ll force Edun to publish details of the projects, together with their locations, the amounts received by each contractor, and the identities of the shareholders.

SERAP further argued that “The allegations of corruption involving these contractors have continued to impair, obstruct, and undermine the access of poor Nigerians to essential public goods and services”.

According to SERAP, the 2021 Audited Report by the Auditor-General of the Federation, published on November 13, 2024, revealed that 31 MDAs collectively paid over N167 billion for projects that were never carried out.

SERAP further reiterated that allowing companies and contractors to go away with public funds unpunished amounts to a grave violation of the Nigerian Constitution, anti-corruption laws, and international obligations under the United Nations Convention against Corruption.

“Holding these contractors accountable would help prevent waste, fraud, and abuse in public spending,” SERAP stated.

By Muhammad Sulaiman

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has appointed Umar Farouk Ibrahim as the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG). The appointment was announced in a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Saturday.

Ibrahim, a seasoned administrator with over three decades of public service experience, will officially assume office on Monday, February 10, 2025. His selection is expected to strengthen the administrative framework of the current government and enhance policy implementation.

Throughout his career, Ibrahim has held key leadership positions, including serving as Permanent Secretary for Research, Evaluation, and Political Affairs from 2001 to 2015. He also briefly acted as SSG in 2013 and 2014, reflecting the trust placed in him by past administrations.

Ibrahim holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, earned in 1985. He has also obtained several professional certificates that have further enriched his expertise in governance and administration.

Governor Yusuf expressed confidence in Ibrahim’s ability to contribute to the state’s development agenda, emphasizing the importance of experienced leadership in achieving sustainable progress.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Islam is experiencing a remarkable rise in Japan, making it the fastest-growing religion in the country. Reports indicate that the number of Japanese Muslims has increased significantly in recent years, driven by conversions and the growing presence of Muslim expatriates.

Experts attribute this growth to increased cultural exchanges, greater awareness of Islam, and the influence of international students, workers, and businesspeople. The number of mosques in Japan has also grown, reflecting the expanding Muslim community.

“I was drawn to Islam after learning about its teachings of peace and discipline,” said Kenji Tanaka, a Japanese convert. His story mirrors that of many others who have embraced the faith.

Despite Japan’s small Muslim population compared to other nations, the steady rise in conversions and interest in Islamic teachings highlights a shift in religious dynamics within the country.

Religious scholars believe that as Japan becomes more globally connected, interest in diverse faiths, including Islam, will continue to grow.

By Anas Abbas

The Mass Communication Students Association (MACOSA) chapter at Bayero University, Kano (BUK), organised a thought-provoking public lecture titled “Ethical Journalism in a Polarized Society: Striking the Balance Between Truth and Responsibility.” 

The event, which took place on Saturday morning in the conference room of the University’s Faculty of Communication, attracted many students and faculty members.

The guest speaker, Mallam Aisar Salihu Musa, illuminated the critical aspects of journalism. He expressed deep concerns about the current state of journalism in Nigeria, stating, “The issue of objectivity in Nigerian journalism is a myth.” 

Malam Aisar highlighted that challenges such as editorial bias, advertorial influences, and media ownership significantly hinder the progress of journalism in the country. 

He further emphasised that journalism in Nigeria often resembles an act rather than a respected profession, especially when compared to fields like law.

Financial instability, he noted, further complicates matters, preventing journalists from adhering to ethical standards. 

To counter these challenges, Aisar urged journalists to prioritise accuracy, responsibility, and balance in their reporting. He specifically advised them to be sensitive when covering conflict and religious issues.

He also encouraged journalists to join professional bodies that offer training opportunities, which can enhance their skills and support ethical reporting in their daily work.

The lecture concluded with a call to action for aspiring journalists to uphold the integrity of their profession amidst the complexities of a polarised society.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is reportedly making significant changes at the helm of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). Plans are underway to replace the current Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, with Bayo Ojulari, a former Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo).

In addition to this change, Ahmadu Musa Kida, a seasoned oil and gas professional and former Deputy Managing Director of Total Oil, is set to take over as the new Chairman of the NNPC Board. This move will see Chief Pius Akinyelure, who has been in the position since 2023, stepping down.

According to reports, Kyari will remain in office until March 1, after which Roland Ewubare, who had previously resigned amid reports of disagreements with Kyari, will assume the role of Group Chief Operating Officer.

Ojulari, who has vast experience in the oil and gas sector, has held leadership positions across Nigeria, Europe, and the Middle East. He led SNEPCo from 2015 to 2021. Kida, on the other hand, brings decades of expertise. He has worked with Total Nigeria since 1985, including serving as Deputy Managing Director for Deep Water Services and holding various board positions within the company.

The leadership overhaul is expected to bring new direction to NNPCL, with both Ojulari and Kida seen as experienced hands in the industry.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, the National Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has affirmed his leadership, rejecting claims from a faction of the party. He stated that he remains the legitimate leader, as recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Friday, Ahmed confirmed that the party is operating under his leadership and the National Working Committee (NWC) inaugurated in 2022.

Dr. Ahmed emphasized that INEC officially recognizes the NNPP led by him, with its logo featuring the colors red, white, and yellow, alongside the emblem of an academic cap, symbolizing the party’s slogan, “Education for All.”

He urged Nigerians and the media to verify his leadership as listed on the INEC website.

Responding to a recent meeting organized by a faction of the party in Lagos, Dr. Ahmed dismissed it as illegal, claiming that the party had not held any meeting outside its headquarters in Abuja. He also refuted claims of the inauguration of a new leadership committee outside Abuja.

By Maryam Ahmad

Tesla is experiencing a sharp decline in sales across Europe and the UK, with analysts pointing to CEO Elon Musk’s political controversies as a key factor.

In January, Tesla sales plummeted by 59.5% in Germany compared to the previous year despite an overall rise in electric vehicle (EV) registrations. France recorded an even steeper drop of 63%, while UK sales fell by 8%, with no Tesla model ranking among the top 10 best-selling cars.

Industry experts suggest Musk’s public support for far-right figures and controversial statements have alienated European consumers, many of whom favour progressive policies. This backlash, coupled with Tesla’s ageing model lineup and delays in launching the refreshed Model Y, has led potential buyers to turn to competitors.

While Tesla remains a dominant force in the global EV market, the recent downturn underscores the growing impact of Musk’s political stance on the company’s brand and sales performance.

By Uzair Adam

The Federal Government has called on stakeholders in the National Council on Education (NCE) to approve the reversal of the mother tongue policy, which mandates teaching in indigenous languages from Primary One to Six.

Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, made the appeal on Thursday during the 2025 Extraordinary National Council on Education Meeting in Abuja.

Ahmad urged the council to review the national education policy, limiting the use of mother tongue to Early Childhood Care Development and Education (ECCDE) and Primary One.

It was gathered that the NCE previously advocated for mother tongue instruction in the first three years of primary education to preserve Nigerian languages and strengthen foundational learning.

However, the Federal Executive Council approved full implementation in November 2022. Highlighting challenges affecting the policy’s execution, Ahmad pointed to inconsistencies in enforcement, particularly in urban areas where English is the dominant language.

She also cited Nigeria’s linguistic diversity—boasting over 500 languages—as a barrier to effective implementation.

Additionally, she noted the limited availability of instructional materials as a hindrance.

“In multilingual communities, selecting a dominant language is challenging,” she said. “Coupled with a shortage of instructional materials, the policy faces significant setbacks.”

Meanwhile, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, proposed integrating secondary education into the basic education framework, extending compulsory schooling to 12 years.

He explained that this aligns with global best practices and Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4), which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education.

“By making secondary education part of basic education, students will enjoy uninterrupted learning up to age 16, reducing dropout rates caused by financial and systemic barriers,” Alausa stated.

He further advocated for converting Federal Science and Technical Colleges (FSTCs) into Federal Technical Colleges (FTCs) to equip young Nigerians with practical skills suited to a technologically evolving world.

The meeting, attended by education commissioners from all 36 states and the FCT, also discussed the integration of a 16-year minimum admission age policy for tertiary institutions to standardize entry requirements.