Nigeria

By Jamiu Abdulgafar Olamilekan

The Punch Newspaper editorial on May 5, 2026 (Page 18), titled “Women Need Better Access to Credit”, highlights one of Nigeria’s most persistent economic blind spots. Despite their immense contributions to business, agriculture, trade, and family welfare, women remain locked out of the financial support they need to grow and thrive.

Across Nigerian markets, women dominate petty trading and small-scale enterprises from fashion shops and food businesses to salons, online ventures, and farming. Yet, securing loans from banks is often impossible.

As the editorial points out, collateral requirements, guarantors, and complex documentation create barriers that many hardworking women in both rural and urban communities cannot overcome.

This exclusion is, to say the least, unjust. Women are among the most financially responsible members of society, stretching limited resources to support children, families, and entire communities. Still, government empowerment programmes frequently fail to reach them.

In some cases, corruption, favouritism, and poor implementation dilute their impact, while lack of financial education and weak communication leave rural women unaware of opportunities that could change their lives.

Going forward, banks and other financial institutions must design loan systems that are flexible and inclusive. Lower interest rates for female-owned small businesses, coupled with expanded financial literacy programmes, would ensure women not only access credit but also manage it effectively.

The government, on its part, must enforce transparency and accountability in policies aimed at empowering women.

Beyond economics, financial empowerment strengthens families and reduces poverty. A woman with a stable income is more likely to invest in education, healthcare, and better living conditions for her household. The ripple effect benefits society at large.

Nigeria cannot claim to pursue inclusive growth while millions of women remain financially excluded. Empowering women is not charity — it is a strategic investment in the nation’s future.

Jamiu Abdulgafar Olamilekan is a Strategic Communication student at Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja. He can be reached at jamiuabdulgafar510@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Protesters under the Nigeria Unite Against Terrorism banner marched through Abuja on Democracy Day, June 12, 2026, demanding urgent action against insecurity while distancing themselves from calls for President Bola Tinubu’s removal.

As Nigeria marked the 2026 Democracy Day anniversary, scores of demonstrators gathered in parts of Abuja on Friday, insisting their movement was solely about restoring peace and security, not unseating the current administration.

The protest came amid rising concern over worsening insecurity across the country, and followed a separate demonstration led by social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), whose supporters had called for President Tinubu’s resignation.

Organisers of Nigeria Unite Against Terrorism were quick to draw a clear line. “We are not asking anybody to leave government. We are not saying an end to any government. What we are saying is that Nigeria should live in peace,” one protest leader declared.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, organisers said Nigerians had reached a breaking point as terrorism, banditry and kidnapping spread across different regions.

“Nigerian citizens, enough is enough. Thank God Mr President in his speech this morning has told us that there is time to end plea bargains and other subtle approaches towards terrorism in Nigeria. This gives us hope that we are moving forward in the fight against terrorism,” the speaker said.

He traced the expansion of insecurity over the years: “In 2012, it was the North-East. By 2015, the North-West was engaged. Before we got to 2019, North-Central Nigeria was affected. Now this is 2026, the South-West is feeling the bite.”

He warned that failure to act decisively could leave the country vulnerable to non-state actors. “If we fold our arms and watch, Nigeria is about to be taken over by non-state actors… One day we will start paying taxes to bandits and deriving protection from those who seek to destroy us.”

According to organisers, the movement was initiated weeks ago to alert both government and citizens to the growing security emergency. “We have decided to make this move to bring to the notice of government and people in power that Nigerians are tired. Nigerians are making their voices known. Nigerians are saying that we are no longer comfortable with the trend of terrorism.”

Another speaker described the campaign as a non-partisan national movement uniting Nigerians across political, religious and ethnic lines. “We are not political. We are a sovereign nation called the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Everyone is now a victim of insecurity.”

He argued that successive governments have failed to permanently address the problem. “Government comes, government goes, but the insecurity is still on. We acknowledge the efforts of our security operatives, but something is missing.”

The protesters called on Nigerians to set aside partisan interests and unite against what they described as the country’s common enemy. “It is now that we suspend our political differences. It is now that we suspend our religious beliefs and regional interests. We must promote a sovereign Nigeria that is safe from banditry, kidnapping and Boko Haram.”

They appealed to civil society organisations, religious groups, academics and ordinary citizens to join the campaign from the North to the West, from the South-East to the South-South — Muslims, Christians, pagans, free thinkers and the academic community.

The organisers urged the federal government to remain open to citizen suggestions on tackling insecurity and encouraged Nigerians to provide timely intelligence to security agencies. “When you see something, say something. And when you say something, the government should do something,” they said.

They also cautioned against sympathising with criminal groups. “Don’t be loyal to bandits. Don’t be loyal to kidnappers. Don’t be loyal to Boko Haram,” they added.

Reiterating that their campaign is not politically motivated but driven by a collective desire for peace, one organiser quoted British philosopher Edmund Burke: “When the bad men combine, the good must associate, else they will fall one by one, an unpitied sacrifice in a contemptible struggle.”

By Anas Abbas

The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of renowned actor, dramatist, and academic, Kola Oyewo.

Oyewo, a respected figure in Yoruba theatre and Nollywood, built a career that spanned more than six decades, earning recognition for his contributions to stage productions, film, and arts education. He was widely celebrated for his portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s classic play The Gods Are Not to Blame, a role that cemented his place among Nigeria’s most accomplished performers.

Born in Oba-Ile, Osun State, the veteran actor began his professional acting journey in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group before later working with the University of Ife theatre troupe. Throughout his career, he featured in several notable productions, including Sango, Saworoide, Koseegbe, and Super Story.

Beyond acting, Oyewo distinguished himself as a scholar. He obtained advanced degrees in drama and lectured at several higher institutions, including Obafemi Awolowo University, where he rose through the academic ranks before retirement.

He also served in teaching and leadership roles at other universities, mentoring generations of theatre practitioners and students.

Only months ago, the celebrated thespian marked his 80th birthday and received tributes from prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, who described him as a cultural ambassador and a national treasure for his immense contributions to Nigerian storytelling and the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.

Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, fans, and cultural stakeholders who remember him as a gifted performer, teacher, and custodian of Nigerian theatre traditions.

Details surrounding his death and funeral arrangements were yet to be fully disclosed at the time of filing this report.

By Uzair Adam


The Borno State Government has announced plans to establish modern rehabilitation centres for juvenile and minor offenders as part of efforts to promote restorative justice and reduce crime among young people.

The state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Hauwa Abubakar, disclosed this on Friday during a briefing to commemorate the June 12 Democracy Day celebration in Maiduguri.

According to her, the initiative is aimed at moving away from an exclusively punitive justice system toward one that focuses on rehabilitation, counselling, and reintegration.

She noted that punishment alone cannot bring about lasting behavioural change, stressing the need for psychological assessment, vocational training, and proper reorientation of offenders.

“Punishment in isolation does not yield the sustainable behavioural reform we desire. We must adopt a compassionate and comprehensive rehabilitation framework that counsels, heals and empowers young offenders, giving them a genuine second chance to become productive and law-abiding citizens,” Abubakar said.

The commissioner explained that the rehabilitation centres form part of a broader agenda of reforms outlined by the administration of Governor Babagana Zulum to strengthen the justice sector, improve offender rehabilitation, and promote public morality.

She also revealed that the state government plans to construct a Judges’ Estate to improve the welfare of judicial officers and reinforce the independence of the judiciary.

According to her, the project has already been included in the current budget and will provide secure and befitting accommodation for judges across the state.

“This modern and high-security Judges’ Estate has already been captured in the current fiscal budget. It is designed to provide premium, secure and conducive accommodation befitting the status and dignity of judicial officers,” she stated.

Abubakar commended Governor Zulum for supporting judicial reforms and infrastructure development in the state.

She said several Magistrate, High and Sharia Courts have been renovated and equipped with modern facilities, while new judicial complexes have been constructed, particularly in communities affected by insurgency.

“As chairperson of the Borno State Anti-Social Vices Committee, we have adopted proactive, intelligence-driven and preventive measures that have contributed to a significant decline in crime and social vices across the state,” she added.

The attorney-general urged community leaders, parents and religious institutions to support efforts aimed at addressing moral decadence and guiding young people towards responsible conduct.

“Eradicating social vices and moral decay is a shared civic responsibility. We must work together to reshape the mindset of our youth and reduce all forms of immorality to the barest minimum,” she said.

By Uzair Adam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested an Aviation Security (AVSEC) officer, Inspector Ali Baffa, alongside two other suspects over an alleged attempt to smuggle unprocessed gold bars valued at more than N4.4 billion through the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.

The Kano Zonal Directorate of the EFCC disclosed that Baffa was apprehended on Thursday during a routine surveillance operation at the airport.

According to the commission, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly concealed 22.2 kilograms of gold bars inside his trousers with the intention of handing them over to passengers travelling to foreign destinations.

The investigation subsequently led to the arrest of Aushabu Nasidi, who was allegedly responsible for supplying the gold bars.

EFCC said Nasidi was found in possession of various foreign currencies, including Saudi Riyals, Turkish Lira, Kuwaiti Dinar, Philippine Peso, Australian Dollars, Chinese Renminbi, Algerian Dinar, Hong Kong Dollars, Hungarian Forint and Sudanese Dinar.

The anti-graft agency also arrested Mukhtar Muhammad Dan Zaria, who allegedly delivered the gold to Nasidi.

During interrogation, Dan Zaria reportedly confessed to smuggling approximately 40.2 kilograms of gold between June 1 and June 11, 2026, using the same method.

The EFCC stated that all three suspects remain in custody and will be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.

By Leah Nickaf

Education remains one of the strongest tools for transforming lives, yet for many young Nigerians, access to quality education remains a major challenge. In a bold step toward changing this narrative, the University of Abuja recently welcomed the leadership team of Oma Life Rescue Foundation for a strategic engagement centred on the A Million Dream Education Scholarship Project. An initiative designed to give hope and educational opportunities to students across Nigeria.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja was the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Rosemary Udiozo, who received the delegation alongside the Registrar, Dr Sambo Muhammad, and the Registrar attached to the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Dr Michael Idoko.

The meeting highlighted the growing importance of partnerships between academic institutions and humanitarian organisations in addressing educational inequality and empowering the next generation of leaders.

Leading the Oma Life Rescue Foundation team was the Founder and CEO, Amb. (Dr.) Omanibe Ameh-Sanusi, accompanied by Barr. Sambo Murtala, Director of Programs, Mr Paul Yima Butu, Communications Analyst Officer, and Mr Emmanuel Momoh.

Discussions focused on creating a sustainable partnership framework to support the successful implementation of the scholarship project and to extend educational opportunities to deserving students in federal and state primary and secondary schools nationwide.

Beyond being a scholarship initiative, A Million Dream Education Scholarship Project symbolises hope, inclusion, and development. Starting July 27, 2026, it aims to bridge educational gaps for underprivileged children and promote academic excellence among young Nigerians. The initiative also shows Oma Life Rescue Foundation’s growing commitment to social impact and youth empowerment through education.

As conversations about educational reform and accessibility continue across the country, collaborations like this show how institutions and non-profit organisations can work together to drive meaningful change. With the University of Abuja and Oma Life Rescue Foundation aligned on a shared vision, the future looks brighter for countless students whose dreams may soon become reality through the power of education.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a stern warning to bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terrorism across the country, urging them to surrender or face decisive action from the Nigerian government.

The President delivered the warning on Thursday during a nationwide broadcast to commemorate 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria.

In his Democracy Day address, Tinubu said the government would continue to pursue both military operations and rehabilitation programmes for repentant fighters, but stressed that the opportunity for surrender would not remain available indefinitely.

“To bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror: Surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State. These windows of surrender will not remain open forever. No mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians,” he said.

Highlighting security efforts by his administration, the President stated that terror-related fatalities had declined significantly since 2015. He also disclosed that more than 13,000 terrorists were neutralised within the last year, while over 124,000 fighters and their dependents had surrendered through Operation Safe Corridor since 2023.

According to him, security remains a major priority of his government, especially in light of recent kidnappings in Oyo and Borno states.

“Though this year’s mood is dampened by the abduction of our children in Oyo and Borno, we remain hopeful for their safe return. Democracy without security is a mirage,” Tinubu said.

He noted that the government had declared a security emergency, approved the recruitment of more than 50,000 police officers and thousands of military personnel, and allocated N5.41 trillion to defence and security in the 2026 budget.

The President also spoke about recent military gains against insurgents, including operations in Borno State.

“We have moved from training with our allies, the United States, France and other European countries, to precision targeting. In Arege, Borno State, we degraded ISWAP’s command centre,” he stated.

Tinubu called on Nigerians to remain united in the fight against insecurity and warned against ethnic profiling.

“At a time like this, let us not assign blame or point fingers. Crime has no ethnicity. We must stand united and be assured that the enemies of our nation shall soon be history. We will triumph over terror and continue to build a more prosperous nation,” he said.

Beyond security, the President reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey since the return to civilian rule in 1999. He described June 12 as a defining moment in the nation’s history and paid tribute to individuals who played key roles in the struggle for democracy.

“June 12 occupies a sacred place in our national memory. It represents more than an election; it is a defining chapter in our story,” he said.

The President honoured the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola and several other democracy activists, politicians, journalists and civil society leaders whose sacrifices, he said, helped secure democratic governance in Nigeria.

Tinubu also announced national honours for dozens of pro-democracy figures and disclosed that the Federal Government had approved the revitalisation and renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies in Kaduna as the General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology.

On the economy, the President defended ongoing reforms introduced by his administration. He said the measures had improved government revenues, strengthened investor confidence and boosted investments across key sectors of the economy.

He acknowledged that many Nigerians still face economic difficulties but assured citizens that his administration remains committed to reducing inflation, creating jobs, improving food production and raising living standards.

“We are moving from uncertainty to stability. The next phase is about accelerating growth and ensuring the benefits are felt in every home, every community, and every region. We believe that Democracy must be felt in the pocket,” he said.

Tinubu also urged young Nigerians to contribute to national development and participate actively in the democratic process.

“To our young people: Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here. Every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship,” he said.

As Ekiti and Osun prepare for upcoming elections, the President called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and political parties to ensure peaceful and credible polls.

He concluded by encouraging Nigerians to remain hopeful despite current challenges.

“Fellow Nigerians, 27 years ago, many doubted democracy would survive here because of our diversity. Today, our diversity sustains our democracy. The road ahead is steep. But June 12 reminds us: Nigerians do not break. We bend, we bleed, but we do not break,” Tinubu said.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A funeral procession in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State came under attack on Thursday after armed men opened fire on mourners transporting the bodies of two victims killed in an earlier assault, leaving one person dead and several others injured.

The incident was confirmed by the President of the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), Barr. Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri, in a statement issued on Friday.

According to Mwantiri, the violence began on Wednesday night when suspected armed attackers stormed Sol village in the Ta-Hoss District of Riyom LGA and killed two residents.

He identified the victims as Davou Dalyop Patu and Dalyop Zaram.

“These productive members of the community were brutally murdered, plunging the entire Ta-Hoss community and surrounding villages into deep mourning.

Mwantiri explained that the attackers struck again the following morning when mourners were taking the bodies of the deceased to the mortuary at Riyom General Hospital.

According to him, the gunmen ambushed the group and opened fire, killing a man identified as Toma Chuwang and injuring several others.

The BYM president expressed concern over what he described as a resurgence of attacks in Riyom and other parts of Plateau State. He urged security agencies to intensify efforts against armed groups operating in affected communities.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Federal University Birnin Kebbi (FUBK) has confirmed the death of one of its students, Zaharadeen Nuhu, following an attack by suspected criminals at a private hostel in Kalgo Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

Nuhu, a 300-level Biochemistry student, reportedly suffered severe machete wounds during the incident and later died while receiving medical treatment.

The development was announced by the university’s Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Ibrahim Magawata, in a statement released on Thursday.

According to the university, the deceased student, who was from Niger State, came under attack at his off-campus residence in Kalgo by a group of suspected hoodlums.

“It is with a heavy heart and total submission to the will of Allah that the university management announces the death of our dear student, Zaharadeen Nuhu, a 300-level student of the Department of Biochemistry,” the statement read.

Magawata said the institution had informed the Nigeria Police Force, Kalgo Division, about the incident. He noted that security agencies had commenced investigations aimed at identifying and arresting those behind the attack.

He further disclosed that security patrols had been strengthened in Kalgo and other off-campus communities where students live. The university has also scheduled a meeting with owners of private hostels to discuss measures that could improve safety, including better lighting and the deployment of night guards.

The dean called on students to remain calm and alert. He urged them to refrain from circulating unverified information and to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate security authorities without delay.

He also advised students to avoid unnecessary late-night movements and, when necessary, travel in groups for safety.

The university reiterated its commitment to the protection and welfare of its students. It also extended condolences to the family, friends and fellow students of the deceased.

Nuhu was laid to rest on Thursday after funeral prayers were held at the mosque of the Federal Teaching Hospital in Birnin Kebbi.

By Rahab Abashi

Debt has emerged as one of the most contentious topics in Nigeria today. Public opinion is often divided, as many view borrowing as an inherent evil, while others argue it is a necessary tool for development. 

In my view, borrowing is not inherently detrimental; rather, the crux lies in how these funds are utilised and whether they effectively stimulate national growth.

Many of the world’s most powerful economies operate on significant debt. Global leaders such as the United States, Japan, China, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, India, Italy, Canada, and Brazil all carry substantial national burdens. 

The United States owes over $34 trillion, Japan’s debt exceeds $9 trillion, and China’s stands at more than $14 trillion. Similarly, developed nations like the United Kingdom, France, and Italy owe trillions of dollars. 

Despite these figures, these nations maintain robust economies by channelling borrowed capital into high-impact sectors such as industry, technology, infrastructure, and commerce.

A defining characteristic of these successful nations is their diversified revenue streams. The United States generates wealth through technology, entertainment, finance, and manufacturing. China dominates in production and exports, while Germany is a global leader in engineering and automobiles. 

India, meanwhile, earns significantly from software services and its world-renowned film industry, Bollywood. While these countries borrow, they possess resilient systems that generate the income necessary to service and repay those loans without seriously impacting citizens.

Nigeria’s predicament is notably different due to an over-reliance on a single commodity. Crude oil remains the nation’s primary source of revenue and foreign exchange. 

Consequently, whenever global oil prices fluctuate, the Nigerian economy suffers a direct hit. This volatility highlights the inherent risk of a mono-product economy, particularly for a country with Nigeria’s massive population.

I believe that borrowing itself is not the primary issue. The real challenges are poor management and a lack of economic diversification. If Nigeria secures loans to revitalise electricity, transportation, agriculture, education, and healthcare, debt becomes a catalyst for development. 

However, when borrowed funds are mismanaged or fail to improve the standard of living, debt is understandably perceived as a burden.

Beyond oil, Nigeria possesses several sectors with immense revenue potential. Agriculture is paramount, given our fertile land and large workforce; the country could achieve significant gains from exports of rice, cocoa, cassava, and palm oil. 

Our entertainment industry is expanding rapidly, with Nigerian music, film, comedy, and fashion gaining global acclaim. Technology also offers a bright frontier, as Nigerian youth increasingly excel in digital skills, software development, and innovation.

With this potential left to stagnate, Nigeria must pivot toward developing a multi-sectoral economy. Economically successful nations are rarely dependent on a single source of income. 

Borrowing is a viable strategy provided the capital is invested wisely in productive sectors that drive growth and create jobs. 

If the giant of Africa prioritises investment in agriculture, entertainment, technology, manufacturing, and tourism, it can build a resilient economy and finally break its precarious dependence on oil.

Abashi Rahab is a student of Strategic Communication at Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja.  An intern with IMPR.  She can be reached at: abashirahab@gmail.com.