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Yusuf’s defection, Kwankwaso and the 2027 Kano election
- By Tunde Rahman
Kano State, the bastion of progressive politics in Northern Nigeria, is going through a turbulent time. This turbulence has caused a tectonic shift in the state’s political map. Mallam Abba Kabir Yusuf, nicknamed Abba Gida-Gida by his numerous supporters, the only governor elected on the platform of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and a key lieutenant and protégé of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso – leader of both the party and the Kawankwasiyya Movement – quit the NNPP and the movement. His departure is a big blow to Kwankwaso and the Kwankwasiyya Movement. The seismic shift perhaps presents the biggest challenge to the godfather’s hegemony.

For Kwankwaso, former Minister of Defence in the President Obasanjo’s administration, the disappointment is difficult to mask. He has described Monday, January 26, 2026, the day Abba Gida-Gida formally enlisted in the governing All Progressives Congress, as one that should be marked in the world as a day of ‘betrayal’.

Cloak-and-dagger politics has never been the exception in Kano’s political culture. Over the years and across several republics, Kano has witnessed bitter disagreements among its political leaders that engendered acrimonious parting of ways. In the Second Republic, the late Abubakar Rimi’s disagreement with his mentor, Malam Aminu Kano, led to a rift that split down the line Aminu Kano’s People’s Redemption Party that brought him to power as governor in 1979. Rimi eventually pitched his tent with the defunct Nigeria Peoples Party, founded by Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, to seek re-election in 1983. Sabo BakinZuwo, propped by PRP to contest the Kano governorship election in 1983, would later defeat his opponent, Alhaji Aminu Wali of the National Party of Nigeria, in a closely contested election. However, his tenure was short-lived. The military coup of December 31, 1983, removed him from office.

It has been no different in the Fourth Republic. Dr Umar Ganduje had a bittersweet relationship with his political friend and principal, Rabiu Kwankwaso, leading to the two parting ways. Such was their initial bond that, even after Ganduje served as Kwankwaso’s deputy during his first governorship term from 1999 to 2003, he tapped him again as deputy when he returned as governor for a second term in 2011, after the eight years of Alhaji Ibrahim Shekarau.

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Defection is normal and part of Nigeria’s politics. The question arising from today’s wave of defections is whether the motive is ideological or for political survival and whether defection is motivated by conflicting political ideas, as was the case in the earlier period referenced, particularly in the case of Rimi and Aminu Kano.

Abba Gida-Gida says his decision to defect to the APC was not self-serving, but was made in the interest of the people of the state to align with the party at the centre and drive more development to Kano. “Our return to APC is anchored on the need to work closely with President Bola Tinubu to advance social welfare, infrastructure and inclusive economic development in Kano. This decision was not driven by personal ambition, but by stability, progress and well-being of Kano people,” he had said during his declaration.

Governor Yusuf seemed at pains to leave the NNPP and part ways with his political leader. It’s instructive that, despite the widespread talk of his defection, it took him quite a while and a few postponements before he eventually joined the APC and pitched his tent with the Ganduje political camp he defeated in the 2023 Kano governorship election.

On January 20, 2026, when Governor Yusuf came to the Presidential Villa for a strategic meeting with President Tinubu, apart from addressing his defection concerns, one other issue that dominated discussions was his plea to the President to renew discussions and negotiations with Kwankwaso, persuade him to re-join APC and consider the possibility of working with him.

However, as correctly reported by a national newspaper over the weekend, Kwankwaso appears inflexible and unrealistic in his demands and conditions for enlisting in the governing party, allegedly seeking commitments for the 2031 presidential position – five years away!

Kwankwaso was thrown into shock and disbelief by Abba Gida-Gida’s defection. Still reeling from shock days after, he swore that Yusuf would regret his decision. His tough stance should be understandable. Governor Yusuf is his son-in-law, former Commissioner for Transport and one of his closest associates.

The battle line now seems clearly drawn between the godfather and the godson. Can Kwankwaso recover from the shock of what he called treachery by a man he helped into office as governor? Can the former minister regain his stranglehold on Kano politics and his awesome control of the levers of power in the state? What does Governor Yusuf’s defection portend for his re-election? I will attempt to answer these critical questions shortly.

One crucial point is the fact that Abba Gida-Gida defected from a position of strength. He crossed over to APC with a formidable arsenal: eight National Assembly members, 22 state assembly members and 44 local council chairmen. The APC has also given him an automatic ticket to contest for re-election in 2027. Leading APC gubernatorial aspirants in the state, notably Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, have already dropped their ambitions, opting to support the governor in 2027. This is a significant decision, particularly by Barau, who had been quite resolute in his preparation for the governorship race, and a demonstration of his humility and loyalty to party leadership.

Will Abba Gida-Gida suffer the same fate in next year’s election as late Abubakar Rimi in 1983? It is yet uncertain.

As indicated earlier, Governor Yusuf has strong supporters in his corner, and his administration is said to be truly pro-people in its governance programmes and infrastructure projects. In his home-base of Gwale Local Government and Kano Central Senatorial District, Abba Gida-Gida, a member of a royal family, is well-liked and has a strong following, even though Senator Rufai Hanga of NNPP, who represents the senatorial zone in the National Assembly, had refused to defect with him.

Senator Barau undoubtedly has a formidable presence in his Kano North, along with Hon. Abubakar Kabir Abubakar Bichi, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, who is from Hagagawa Village. Also for APC in this zone are former deputy governor in the state and former Minister of State for Housing, Abdullahi Gwarzo, and APC deputy govenorship candidate in the last election, Murtala Sule Garo. APC is strong enough there to secure Kano North for Abba Gida-Gida, while Senator Kawu Sumaila, who had earlier in April 2025 defected from NNPP to APC, may do a similar thing for the governor in Kano South, among other things.

A lot, however, will depend on how Governor Yusuf carries on from now till the election, in terms of his relationship with the Kano people and the seriousness of the leaders both in Kano and Abuja, who are with him, to deliver him. There is also the issue of who Kwankwaso’s NNPP will present to slug it out with Abba Gida-Gida, who is yet unknown. That choice too will be a key factor in the election.

Meanwhile, Kwankwaso has begun a recalibration of his fractured NNPP and the Kwankwasiyya Movement.

Fortunately for him, Yusuf’s deputy, Samaila Gwarzo, has refused to join the governor in the defection to the APC. However, his fate hangs in the balance as the governor and his associates mull his impeachment. The governor has an overwhelming majority in the House to carry this through.

Also, some commissioners and a few top functionaries have resigned from Abba Gida-Gida’s government to demonstrate their loyalty to Kwankwaso. This will give initial comfort and strength in his efforts to rebuild his broken political group.

In summary, though seemingly down now, Kwankwaso cannot be ruled out in Kano’s political equation. It will amount to political naivety to contemplate otherwise.

•Rahman is Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Special Duties.
February 1, 2026
‘Our agenda for Ogun West governorship candidate’

As next year’s governorship election draws near, a group, Ogun West Professionals, works towards cohesion and unity of purpose among major political players within the zone. In this interview, the Chairman of Steering Committee of the group, Dr. Yemisi Bamgbose, the Executive Secretary of Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON), bares his mind why the zone should produce the next governor. He speaks with Bola Olajuwon

What is the group, Ogun West Professionals, all about?

Most of the professionals came together as a group of individuals from various disciplines. I’m not one of the visionaries. I was only saddled with the responsibility of steering or planning the group’s media chat, which is one of their various programmes; maybe because I belong to the media profession. Later, I was co-opted into the administration.

The primary intention of this group, as I understand, is to ensure that there is coherence among the people of Ogun West, I mean Ogun West Senatorial District.

The Ogun West Senatorial District has not been fortunate enough to occupy the number one position in Ogun State since the state was created in 1976, most especially under this democratic dispensation. And this has been largely alluded to the fact that the people from the zone, most especially the politicians, have not been speaking with one voice. So, the Ogun West Professionals identified lack of unity, one voice and coherence among the people as militating against their desire to win the governorship seat.

The professionals are indigenes of various towns and villages across the zone; that is, we have them from the Awori, the Yewa, the Anago, the Ketu, etc in all the Ogun West’s five local governments: Ado-Odo Ota, Imeko Afon, Ipokia, Yewa North and Yewa South. We want to correct this mistake

The hidden agenda of the group is to present a common front before 2027. But the senatorial district is known for divisions. Do you think the professionals can break the jinx and unite the people?

In all these local governments, we have these professionals full of determination this time around. They want to find a way of making sure that there is unity among the people; so that with that unity from the internal, then we can sell our unity to the external – that is to the two remaining senatorial districts in Ogun State (Ogun Central and Ogun East). That is the primary focus of the group, to break the jinx of not being able to produce a governor since Ogun West was created in 1976.

So, the part the group is charting is to look around and then look at the various political aspirants, those that have been showing interest that they are going to contest and they are looking for the right platform.

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Are your members and other groups reaching out to other interests from other zones and the zone itself?

So, the media chat is being organised in Ilaro, where the attendance is expected to be over 2,000 because the professionals themselves – a platform of a little close to a thousand members – are reaching out to other formidable groups, formidable clubs and the artisans across the state.

They have been contacted to ensure that they are part of the programme. The primary intention is that we are looking at everything that we can do to harmonise opinions, to bring people together so that a formidable team and a formidable voice can emanate from Ogun West Senatorial District so that we can get the buy in of Ogun Central Senatorial District and Ogun East Senatorial District in terms of support, so that come 2027, we’ll be able to get the nod for it. So, I think the body is equally looking at who is likely and who is more favorable within the ranks of the politicians that are clamouring to contest.

So, these are the things that I know about it: we want to bring unity and allow coherence to happen among the politicians. Certainly, we cannot get 100 per cent support for any particular candidate because as long as we have different political parties, there will be different interests and there could be different candidates. But this time around, I think part of what the Ogun West Professionals are clamouring for is to make sure that aspirants from the zone in key political parties ensure that they are made the flag bearers of their parties so that the people of Ogun West Senatorial District can eventually determine whom they wanted.

What is your February 1 media chat all about?

The Ogun West Professionals are having a media chat with Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, in Ilaro on Sunday, February 1, 2026 at Frontiers Hotel, Ilaro, Ogun State. He is the senator representing the district. The event is purely organised by the professionals who came together to contribute funds to organise the programme.

The attendance is expected to be over 2,000 because the professionals themselves – a platform of a little close to a thousand members now – are reaching out to other formidable groups, clubs or the artisans across the state to be part of the agenda.

The professionals said let’s have a media chat with Senator Adeola to hear from him directly and to let him tell the world what he has on the table to ensure that Ogun West can win the governorship election in 2027. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District, is slated to be our guest speaker at the media chat.

February 1, 2026
How Epe Division can be an industrial hub, by Dada
- ‘We want to honour our leaders while alive and not after their passage’
Chief Olayemi Dada, a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), is the President of Epe Club. He spoke with Emmanuel Oladesu and Chinyere Okoroafor in Lagos on the challenges confronting Epe Division, the aspirations of the people for development and why the organisation is honouring the All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart, divisional leader and Apase of Epeland, Chief Shakiru Akanni Seriki-Bamu, at a reception in Lagos next week.

What is the place of the Epe Division in the development of Lagos State?

The Epe Division is very vital to the development of Lagos State. Out of the five divisions in the state, Epe stands out because of its unique features. First, it is largely surrounded by water, giving it a strong aquatic advantage. It is also close to the commercial nerve centre of Lagos and sits at the end of the Lekki Peninsula. In addition, Epe is home to some of the most vibrant indigenes in Lagos State. Historically, Epe was the education hub of the state. That is why many of the early Commissioners for Education in Lagos State were from Epe. This reflects the presence of a highly educated and enlightened elite. Today, Epe Division hosts major developments such as the Dangote Refinery, the seaport and deep seaport projects, as well as several other ongoing investments. The Federal University and the Federal Medical Centre are also located within the division. Clearly, Epe Division is central to the present and future growth of Lagos State.

Epe is becoming more urbanised. What are the challenges confronting the environment?

One of the most obvious challenges is insecurity. Another major issue is infrastructure development, which is not keeping pace with the rapid growth in the division. There is also a significant population surge, as many people are relocating from the Lagos metropolis to Epe. Unfortunately, amenities have not grown at the same rate as the population. Power supply is another major challenge. For any area to develop industrially and economically, stable power is crucial. From what we have gathered, the Lagos State Government is looking into this issue very critically, and we have received assurances that solutions are on the way. Power remains one of the most pressing challenges facing the Epe Division.

We believe the government alone cannot solve all these problems. What are indigenes doing to help?

The government alone cannot solve all problems. In fact, the government itself is made up of people, which means we must all take part in addressing these challenges. Several clubs, associations, and groups are actively complementing government efforts. For instance, the Premier Club of Epe Division intervenes in areas such as health, security, communal issues, and even economic development. In the past, committees were set up to develop a blueprint for the economic growth of Epe. Various groups and individuals have also come together to form advisory bodies and pressure groups that engage the government constructively. Among these, Epe Club has emerged as the champion of many supportive and developmental initiatives across the division.

How are leading figures fostering peace and harmony in a town known for having multiple traditional rulers?

The Epe Division has many traditional rulers, and their coexistence has spanned decades. The monarchs crowned from the two sides of Epe town are prominent members of the Epe Club. This provides a strong platform for dialogue. At different levels, there are forums where issues of peaceful coexistence and security are discussed collectively. There has never been a problem arising from the presence of two monarchs. This is largely because Epe town has distinct cultural and historical backgrounds, which explain the existence of the two traditional institutions. At the highest level, both monarchs come together and work peacefully for the good of the community.

Is Epe Club restricted to Epe town, or does it cover the entire division?

Epe Division stretches from Abijo in Ibeju-Lekki to Agbowa towards Ikorodu, extends to the Lekki Free Zone, and ends at Ise, which is the boundary between Lagos and Ogun states. Prominent individuals from all these areas are members of the Epe Club.

In fact, all the monarchs from these communities are patrons of the Epe Club. The club has a unique way of bringing everyone together across the division. For example, I am from Eredo LCDA in Epe Division, I live in Ibeju-Lekki, and I am the president of Epe Club. Even if I later live in Agbowa Ikosi, I would remain active and relevant within the division. This inclusive structure makes it easier to spread supportive programmes and intervene in critical issues such as security, communal disputes, health, and economic development. Epe Club has also been awarding bursaries to indigent students across the entire division for many years, covering students in universities and other tertiary institutions nationwide.

This is how Epe Club is structured, and we remain grateful to our forebears for establishing it on such a solid and inclusive foundation.

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How is the association interfacing with the political class to attract more dividends of democracy to the people?

We regularly organise interactive sessions where political office holders and government representatives visit the club to brief us on their plans and programmes. During these engagements, they outline what they intend to do as part of the ruling government, and we, in turn, share the aspirations and needs of our people, which we expect them to push within government. Our relationship with political leaders is very close. For instance, members of the Lagos State House of Assembly visit Epe Club almost every weekend, not just formally but also socially. We have structured programmes called interactive sessions. At our last meeting, we invited all chairmen of local governments and LCDAs within the division to engage with us. Before that, a commissioner also visited to discuss pressing issues affecting the division, explain government plans, and receive direct feedback from the community. This relationship is built on accountability. During election seasons, those who perform well are openly acknowledged and supported, while those who do not deliver are also told plainly. Through our grassroots membership, feedback travels quickly. When a representative is doing well, the people say so; when they are not, questions are raised. This transparency has sustained both the credibility of the club and its relationship with the government.

Can you shed light on the Club’s recruitment process, especially regarding youth inclusion? Is it only for retirees or established elites?

The club is not restricted to retirees or only highly placed individuals. When it comes to recruitment into public service or private-sector opportunities, once we identify openings through our members who occupy strategic positions, we use our grassroots network to disseminate the information across communities. When government agencies or private organisations provide criteria for recruitment, we circulate them widely within the division and collate feedback. Importantly, beneficiaries do not have to be members of the club, nor children of members. Our priority is fairness and community impact. In fact, integrity is key. If we discover that a candidate already has sufficient family support or privilege, we may deliberately remove such a name to give others a fair chance. This principle has helped the club maintain its credibility over the years. The only major requirement is that beneficiaries must be indigenes of the division. Once that is established, we push their cases strongly, and the success rate has been remarkably high.

Why is the club celebrating its elder statesmen now, and what is the significance of this event?

This celebration marks a deliberate shift in narrative. Previously, many of our elderly members were celebrated only after they had passed on. We felt it was time to honour our founding fathers while they are still alive.

This is the first celebration of its kind, and *Baba Bamu* is the first person we recognize under this new approach. Going forward, we plan to hold such celebrations at least once or twice a year. It will not be limited to age alone; members who have made outstanding contributions to the club and the division will also be honoured.

*Baba Bamu’s* impact cuts across politics, community development, and the economy. Almost everyone in the Epe Division can point to one way or another in which he has touched their lives. Whether it is facilitating industrial investment, mediating with the government, or guiding traditional leadership processes, he is known for speaking truth and standing for integrity. This is why people from diverse sectors and industries will gather to celebrate him.

How can Epe Division emerge as an industrial hub?

Epe Division is already on the path to becoming a major industrial hub in Lagos State. In the past, it sat somewhere between an industrial corridor and a residential zone. Today, its strategic location has positioned it clearly for industrial growth.

We now have critical infrastructure taking shape, the Lekki Free Zone, a proposed airport, and a rail line extending towards the axis. These are the foundations required for industrial expansion.

What is needed now is for indigenes of Epe Division, especially those running businesses outside the area, to return and take advantage of these opportunities. The government has provided infrastructure; our role as a club is to sensitise our people to these developments and encourage them to invest at home.

We are also engaging the government through our members in strategic positions to advocate incentives for indigenous investors, such as tax reliefs and reduced levies, to help businesses stabilise before heavy taxation sets in. This approach will encourage more participation and sustainable growth.

How are you engaging the Diaspora to contribute to development in the division?

Through Epe Club, we have strong connections with our members and indigenes in the diaspora, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom. Many of them remain actively involved in the club’s activities. We understand their concerns, especially around security and the business environment. However, we lead by example. Many of us are running successful private businesses locally without intimidation or threats, and we showcase this reality to them.

During the recent Christmas and New Year period, several diaspora members visited and spent time at the club. Some are still around and will attend the upcoming celebration. At the club level, we continue to demonstrate that the environment is viable and that they, too, can thrive if they return.

What is your development outlook for the next five years?

The government has a clear master plan, and while development projections often span 20 to 50 years, even within five years, Epe Division will experience a remarkable transformation. The government’s role is to provide infrastructure and create an enabling environment for businesses. Already, we are seeing rapid land acquisition, particularly for residential estates. While some worry that this is reducing land available for industry, estates themselves are part of economic development. Housing is essential for the growing population that industrialisation attracts. In five years, Epe will not only be an industrial zone but also a well-balanced environment where industries, housing, and commercial activities coexist. The division will look vastly different, more organised, more developed, and more economically vibrant.
February 1, 2026
Sage, Pa Awolowo,lives on
- By Bamidele Atoyebi
As a man who was born on the night Awolowo passed, my parents’ Igbo neighbour said to my Dad; Awolowo has returned back to us. This single statement has made me to be very conscious of who I am as an Awoist, spiritual, body and soul.

Awolowo was a main issue in Nigeria’s politics, says former president Ibrahim Babangida and still a main thing till now. Whether free or incarcerated, every political decision in Nigeria till date revolves around Awolowo’s personal political theories.

When Awolowo died, many people who believe in his political Ideology thought it’s over for them and Nigeria, yet, they didn’t know that he invisibly lives among us daily through his various political theories that some top politicians and decision makers still practice today.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a man who’s a walking carrier of Obafemi Awolowo political spirit. So you can’t love Awolowo and hate Tinubu. They’re both siamese twins. Many who claimed to love him didn’t even know the Ideology he practiced.

Awolowo is of the school of thought of Democratic Socialism, that’s his Ideology, Kwame Nkruma of Ghana was his political mentor.

Kwame Nkruma had said; the freedom of Ghana is not yet complete until all Africa is free, so Awolowo sent some of his young mentees to Ghana to go and understudy Kwame Nkruma style of politics. Part of those young people was Pa Ayo Adebanjo.

So my question is why did Baba Ayo Adebanjo hate Bola Ahmed Tinubu till his death and supported Peter Obi, an Igbo man and a man who doesn’t represent any political school of thought at all? Maybe it was beef or a superiority complex. He feels he should be the one to enjoy the political control in the Southwest that Bola Ahmed Tinubu is enjoying. Actually, I was speaking as a prophet when I wrote in an opinion article that one of the enemies Tinubu has was those that feel he shouldn’t be their political leader since they ate and dined with Awolowo and he did not. Aside from the fact that Tinubu was not part of the people directly around Obafemi Awolowo, he is far younger than PA Ayo Adebanjo of blessed memory. So the hatred is understandable but very unnecessary. Many people around politicians and big men always feel a sense of entitlement to automatically become leader immediately the leader exits. It happened even to Jesus, Salome had told him to make his two children to occupy the highest seat of power in his kingdom but Jesus turned her down and told her his kingdom is not about power but about service. Actually this is why many politicians block people from coming close to them till today, they always see a newcomer as a threat to taking their role or space especially when the newcomer has more to offer than them. Let me not digress for too long, that’s not where I am going.

Many people don’t know that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu practices Democratic Socialism as Ideology. He’s everything Awolowo was, so everyone who was an Awolowo fan or followers should queue behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Well, I knew this earlier, this was why I started following him from the age of 12. Tinubu believes in everything Awolowo believed in; in short, he advanced more than him in politics because he understands Awolowo political limitations and strengths, so he added what Awolowo didn’t have to his political ethical practice. He bends some of his principles for greater goals; he actually tapped that from Ladoke Akintola.

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Awolowo was combative in nature while Akintola was pliable. That was their political difference but Asiwaju combined both which is why he is president Today. Awolowo was a very courageous leader, so is Asiwaju, Awolowo believed in Taxing rights, so is Asiwaju. Yes, you don’t need to look further to know that he learnt taxing the wealthy and corporations more than taxing the poor in society from Awolowo. That’s where the new tax reform emanated from. That was the same place he got his knowledge of reforming Lagos tax system then that moved Lagos from a six hundred million dollar economy to three billion naira economy.

Awolowo founded Action Group (AG), Asiwaju founded Alliance for Democracy (AD). Awolowo believed in free education and free Healthcare care for children up to the age of 18, Asiwaju believes so strongly in the same. NELFUND, TIVET, and subsidzed dialysis, health fellow program among other free Medical care ongoing. When he was the Lagos State governor, he initiated Iera Eko, free Healthcare for those born with deformity among others.

Awolowo believed in bridging the financial gap between the wealthy and poor, same as President Tinubu. The fact is not far- fetched “let the poor breath don’t suffocate them”. He backed this up with several initiatives like credit corp, N10 million interest-free loans for lecturers, minimum wage increment, signing and immediate implementation of FG ASUU 2009 agreement, conditional cash transfer for households and market women, and farmers cooperative loan among others.

Another parallel between Asiwaju and the late sage was in their play of opposition. Asiwaju drew straight from how Awolowo played opposition politics by putting the legs of ruling regimes to the fire by constant constructive criticism as well as taking policies and programmes of his opponents to the cleaners no matter how good they were. That is a signature approach to making the electorate feel he always has better leadership to offer. Both of them did that with precision and capped it with infiltrating the ranks of their opponents and planting informants to have adequate knowledge of how to keep them on their toes. Even today, opposition to APC is adopting the same template thereby giving the impression they can do better than Asiwaju whereas the truth remains they can’t scratch his successes. Awo practised it, Tinubu adopted it and even the opposition today is copying from it.

So, you can’t love Awolowo and possibly hate Tinubu. Awolowo never died, he lives on.

•Comrade Atoyebi is the Convener of BAT Ideological Group, National Coordinator of Accountability and Policy monitoring and a publisher at Unfiltered and Mining Reporting.
February 1, 2026
The future of Imo: From Hope to Success
- By Austin Iwuamadi
Imo State has always been a crucible of political drama, a place where the interplay of personalities, zones and parties produces a theatre of shifting allegiances and contested visions. Yet in the past six years, under the stewardship of Governor Hope Uzodimma, the state has experienced a recalibration of its political and developmental trajectory. His Renewed Hope Agenda, built on the pillars of reconstruction, rehabilitation and recovery, has sought to restore confidence in governance, rebuild infrastructure, and re‑establish Imo as a state capable of delivering prosperity to its people.

As the calendar moves inexorably towards 2027, the question of succession looms large. It is here that Chief Barrister Obioma Success Akagburuonye enters the frame, not as a disrupter but as a logical continuum, a man whose private sector achievements and humanitarian disposition can translate Uzodimma’s hope into success. The narrative, compelling in its symmetry, is aptly captured in the phrase: From Hope to Success: Imo Agenda Faces Fulfilment.

Governor Uzodimma’s tenure has been marked by a determination to confront decay and restore dignity. Roads long abandoned have been reconstructed, connecting communities and stimulating commerce. His administration has completed over a hundred major roads, including strategic arteries linking Owerri to Orlu and Okigwe, thereby easing mobility and trade.

Healthcare has been advanced through initiatives such as the establishment of Nigeria’s first Robotic Surgical Centre in Imo, a bold step towards technology‑driven medicine. Security challenges, which threatened to destabilise the state, have been met with compassion and resolve, exemplified by his donation of six hundred million naira to families of fallen heroes and victims of insecurity. Fiscal management has been stabilised, investment attracted, and confidence in governance restored. These milestones, recognised nationally with awards for good governance, embody the essence of the Renewed Hope Agenda: that governance can be both compassionate and competent, visionary and practical.

Uzodimma’s achievements are not merely projects; they are groundwork. They are foundations upon which his successor must build. And it is here that Chief Success Akagburuonye’s profile dovetails naturally.

Success’ life story is itself a testament to resilience. Born into modest circumstances in Uvuru, Aboh Mbaise, he rose through determination and enterprise to become a lawyer, engineer, businessman and philanthropist. His wealth has been deployed not in ostentation but in service: churches erected, homes built for widows, scholarships endowed for youth, security outfits established to protect communities.

The Noah’s Ark Church, which he single‑handedly constructed and which was dedicated by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, stands as a monument to faith and philanthropy. The Lion of Judea security outfit illustrates his responsiveness to the anxieties of ordinary citizens. These are not abstractions; they are bricks, mortar and lives touched. In the calculus of political credibility, they weigh heavily.

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His humanitarian disposition has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, The Sun Newspaper honoured him with the Humanitarian Icon Award, recognising his sustained commitment to community development and human capital investment. It was not a token accolade but a national acknowledgement that philanthropy, when consistent and impactful, becomes a form of governance.

Imo politics is entering a new phase. The Charter of Equity has crystallised into a demand that cannot be ignored. Since 1999, Orlu Zone has dominated the governorship, with Okigwe enjoying a brief four‑year tenure, while Owerri has been relegated to a mere seven months in office. By 2027, Orlu will have held power for 24 years, Okigwe for four, and Owerri for less than one. This imbalance has hardened into a demand that 2027 must be Owerri’s turn.

Success, as a son of Owerri Zone, embodies that principle. But beyond zoning, leadership must be about capacity, compassion, and credibility. His record of philanthropy and resilience positions him not merely as a candidate of equity but as a candidate of fulfilment.

The symbolism of succession is compelling. Governor Uzodimma’s tenure has been defined by hope. Success’s candidacy offers fulfilment. Hope rebuilt Imo; Success can consolidate. Hope restored confidence; Success can deliver prosperity. Hope reconstructed; Success can humanise.

For Uzodimma, contemplating succession, the imperative is not rupture but reinforcement. Success offers precisely that: alignment with the APC, grassroots credibility, equity fulfilment, and symbolic continuity. His NGO, Hope Rising for Imolites, already positions him as a bridge between Uzodimma’s Renewed Hope and the fulfilment of that agenda in lived experience.

As he turns 60, Success is not merely celebrating; he is acting. On 22 February, alongside thanksgiving and the launch of his biography’ Me and My God,’ he will flag off the Owerri Airport Road project. The symbolism is profound: infrastructure as a gift to the people, philanthropy as a form of governance, and birthday as a platform for service.

The event is expected to be flagged by Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, underscoring the international dimension of his vision. It is not just a local project but a statement that Imo’s development must be connected to broader networks of solidarity and recognition.

The permutations of 2027 place Success ahead of other contenders. Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, though experienced, is associated with an unfinished tenure. Dr Stanley Amuchie, the banker, is technocratic but lacks grassroots resonance. Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi, though savvy, has faced questions of loyalty through party switches. Dr Ejike Chukwu and Dr Chima Amadi, though accomplished, lack the breadth of philanthropy and political maturity.

Success, by contrast, combines equity mandate, humanitarian record, resilience narrative, and party alignment. His recognition by The Sun Newspaper as a Humanitarian Icon is not merely an award but a validation that his service is visible, credible, and impactful.

Imo politics is at an inflexion point. The Charter of Equity demands justice. The electorate demands service. The party demands continuity. In this shifting landscape, Chief Success Akagburuonye has emerged as a major force, not by accident but by the convergence of history, service and strategy.

Uzodimma’s tenure has been transformative, embodying the Renewed Hope Agenda. As Imo faces 2027, Success’s candidacy offers logical succession: his private sector successes and humanitarian disposition can translate hope into success. The narrative is compelling: Hope rebuilt Imo; Success will fulfil Imo.

As he marks his 60th birthday, flags off the Owerri Airport Road project, and launches his biography, Chief Success stands at a crossroads. He can continue as a philanthropist and private sector leader, or he can yield to the push and translate his vision into public office. Either way, his life remains a beacon of divine grace and resilience, a story worthy of emulation. Yet the clamour grows, the equity mandate beckons, and the people whisper: will Success answer the call?

•Dr Iwuamadi writes from UNN
February 1, 2026
Fintechs, others at risk of data protection breach in 2026 – Expert

As data protection compliance becomes nonnegotiable with enforcement for breaches, indications are that focus will be on high-risk industries like fintech, healthcare to mention just a few.

Making this submission at the weekend was Ademikun Adeseyoju, Head of Emerging Services at DataPro, foremost credit rating agencies.

From available information, breaches can result in severe penalties imposed by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC). For major data controllers/processors, fines can reach up to ₦10 million or 2% of annual gross revenue, whichever is higher, along with potential imprisonment. Smaller organisations face fines up to ₦2 million or 2% of annual revenue.

Lending credence to the foregoing, Adeseyoju, in a statement announcing the commencement of its 2026 Privacy Week, themed: “Privacy in the Age of Emerging Technologies: Trust, Ethics, and Innovation”, anticipates intensity on Sector-Specific Enforcement, with the NDPC focusing on high-risk industries like Fintech, Healthcare, etc.

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Pressed further, he said, the week-long observance serves as an inflection point for analysing the tectonic shifts in Nigeria’s 2025 data protection landscape while preparing organisations for the rigorous demands of the coming year.

In its review of the outgoing year, it recalled that 2025 marked Nigeria’s definitive transition from the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) to the full statutory power of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) and the General Application and Implementation Directive (GAID) 2025. This shift signalled a move from guidelines-based compliance to a mandatory, enforcement-driven regime.

Specifically, it noted that key milestones from the 2025 ecosystem includes active regulatory posture with the NDPC moving decisively into active enforcement, publicly naming non-compliant entities, particularly in the financial services sector.

Besides, it cited judicial precedents as landmark court rulings in 2025 affirmed that transparency in personal data handling is a constitutionally protected right.

Courts awarded significant damages to data subjects for privacy breaches, signalling that organisational size no longer shields against accountability.

Furthermore, regulatory settlements with multinational technology firms have set a high bar for behavioural advertising and data processing standards in Nigeria.

This is just as the Cybersecurity Landscape in 2025 witnessed an unprecedented surge in cyber threats as attackers shifted their focus from technical exploits to identity-driven campaigns, targeting valid credentials with high precision.

This “identity-centric” threat environment has made robust access management a non-negotiable requirement for corporate resilience.

In its 2026 outlook, DataPro projected that 2026 will be defined by Board and Executive Ownership. Privacy will no longer be an IT-only concern but a standing governance issue requiring regular risk reports and dedicated budgets.

“We also anticipate a surge in individual claims and constitutional privacy actions, meaning organisations must remain “litigation ready” by preserving processing records and strengthening internal controls. As a licensed Data Protection Compliance Organisation (DPCO), DataPro Limited is positioned to help your organisation achieve and sustain its compliance objectives for 2026. With over 30 years of regulatory and compliance experience, partnering with DataPro ensures access to deep expertise, practical implementation support, and a collaborative approach to meeting your NDPA compliance goals.”

February 1, 2026
Ogun deputy gov, Alake, others commend firm for driving investments in downstream oil sector
- As Fatgbems unveils mega station
The Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele has described as commendable the investment drive of Fatgbems Group in the state thus far, stressing that the state government will continue to lend its support enterprise and commerce in line with its mandate.

She spoke on Wednesday at the official commissioning of Fatgbems petroleum one-stop-shop mega station at OPIC area of Isheri, Ogun State to bolster efficient supply of petroleum products in the state.

The station strategically located on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, is equipped with eight fuel pumps and a 10-tons Liquifies Petroleum Gas (LPG) mobile skid, is also laced with Capro Car Care services and tyre solution centres to serve the need of motorists within the same facility.

The deputy governor commended the company for the significant investment, saying the redevelopment of the mega station goes far beyond fuel retailing, but speaks to innovation, quality service delivery, job creation and the strengthening of the local economy.

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“Projects such as this demonstrate how the private sector continues to play a vital role in national and sub-national development. Ogun State remains committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive,” she said.

Salako-Oyedele was hopeful that the mega station would serve the community well and serve as a model of excellence in the downstream oil and gas sector.

She urged the staff to take full ownership of this project to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, safety and customer service and to ensure that it remains a point of pride for the company and the community as whole.

Also speaking at the event, the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, who was the royal guest of honour applauded the investment initiative of the company, recalling that the vision of the founder, who set up the company over four decades ago has evolved, even as he urged the current management to ensure the ideals remain untainted.

The Managing Director, Fatgbems Group Dr Kabir Gbemisola, described the mega outlet as a milestone that represents not just a new location but a bold step towards their journey of growth, service, excellence and industry leadership.

“This outlet is a symbol of where we are going, bigger in capacity, stronger in system and deep in impact,” he said.

He assured that Fatgbems Group operates with a clear purpose to deliver quality, automotive and mobility solutions within integrity and professionalism.

“Every new outlet we open reflects our core values which aim on integrity, leadership and innovation, environmental responsibility, health and safety. Our new station is a particular special, it represents our confidence in the future and the continued growth of Nigeria’s oil and gas and automotive sector.

“The outlet is equipped with modern facilities, skilled personnel and efficient systems to ensure that every customer who walks in receives not just a service but inexpensive, refined, more trust and excellence.

“We are here to build relationships, raise jobs and contribute meaningfully to the local economy,” he stated.

The Director, Retails and Expansion, Fatgbems Group, Bayo Gbemisola, said the facility is not just a filling station, it’s a multi-cultural, emerging mobility hub, as it was designed to meet the evolving needs of modern Nigerian travellers.

“To serve the travellers on Lagos-Ibadan expressway and the Isheri community. We have installed a 10-tons LPG mobile skid behind the station.

“This mini refilling plant is engineered for high-capacity throughput and world-class safety sensors, ensuring that clean cooking energy is accessible, affordable and safe for the residents and customers.

“There is also Capro Car Care Professionals Centre. We have equipped the unit with modern diagnostic tools and automated tyre service technology to ensure that every vehicle leaving our station is safer than the way they came. There is also a tyre solution by Fatgbems Tyre.

“Our goal is to replicate the mega-hub model across the south-west and the north-central regions, setting a new benchmark for what Nigerians should expect from a home-grown indigenous brand,” he stated.
February 1, 2026
How agro-allied firm is redefining food processing using backward integration

To say Nigeria remains import dependent in the area of food is stating the obvious, as receipts from food and beverage import bill rose significantly in 2025, reaching ₦5.27 trillion in the first nine months alone. This represents a sharp increase from the ₦4.71 trillion recorded during the same period in 2024, reflecting an 11.74% year-on-year growth driven by rising demand for imported primary food items.

While the government implemented temporary waivers (for 150 days) on certain food imports to reduce local prices, the overall trend indicated a higher dependency on foreign food sources in 2025, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

Interestingly, as the federal government begins to look inwards to fill the gap in the area of provision of raw materials locally and exportation of finish products to strengthen the naira, the management of Agbeyewa farm which just recently acquired Matna Food Processing company to boost cassava processing, has taken the bull by the horns: through keen, deliberate devotion to the ideals and ideas of backward integration to drive food security ultimately.

The subject of backward integration has consistently taken the center stage at various fora with stakeholders reviewing the importance of backward integration in the agricultural sector. This, of course, has led to several correspondences and different opinions from players in the manufacturing and agricultural sectors.

It is pertinent to note that a venture into backward integration is a cumbersome task, but the result is always overwhelming. The process of setting up the value chain for backward integration is capital intensive and takes time to actualise as local manufacturers often face the task of paying back possible loans from commercial banks at 20 – 35% interest rate. However, importers do not suffer such fate as they import, pay duties and hit the market running (making money instantly).

At the last count, manufacturing giants like Nigerian Breweries, FrieslandCampina Wamco Plc, Nestle, PZ Wilmar; Dangote Group and Flour Mills of Nigeria, have shifted drastically to local inputs for their products. Others are; De-United Food, Chi Limited, Presco Oil, Okomu Oil, and BUA Group.

Enter Matna Food Processing company…

The capital intensive nature to backwards integration notwithstanding, many local manufacturers and multinationals in Nigeria like the Agbeyewa Farms Limited, located in Ekiti, appears to have taken the bull by the horns.

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One of the company’s strategic business moves late last year was the acquisition of Matna Foods Company Limited, located in Akure, Ondo State.

Matna Foods is a Nigerian agro-allied processing company specialising in the production of international-standard, multi-purpose cassava starch. Incorporated in 1998 and operational since 2002, the company was founded by Chief (Dr) Joseph O. Sanusi, CON, and the late Mr. Tae Won Cho, ahead of Nigeria’s national cassava development initiatives. The company plays a critical role in linking local cassava farmers to industrial markets.

The new owner, the Agbeyewa Industries Limited, a subsidiary of Cavista Holdings, is a leading agro-allied company committed to transforming agriculture in Africa. With a strong focus on innovation, the company is spearheading a Cassava Revolution—aimed at transforming the process of cassava cultivation, aggregation, processing, and market integration, driving food security and economic development across the continent.

Through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, led by the Agbeyewa Farms Community Development Foundation (AFCDF), the company also drives impactful programs in education, economic empowerment and environmental sanitation.

The acquisition of Matna, one of the oldest cassava starch processing companies in Nigeria, by Agbeyewa is believed to have marked a significant strategic milestone for Agbeyewa as part of its broader vision to integrate agricultural production, processing, and industrial utilisation within Nigeria’s cassava value chain, linking large-scale cassava cultivation in Ekiti State with industrial processing capacity in Ondo State.

According to the new owner, the regional synergy is expected to unlock new efficiencies, expand local sourcing, and stimulate economic activity for all players in the cassava value chain. It was also stated that the acquisition aligns strongly with the Federal Government’s drive to strengthen food security, reduce imports, and deepen agro-industrial value chains, particularly within the cassava ecosystem—one of Nigeria’s most strategic crops.

Agbeyewa, located in Ekiti State, has grown into a transformational agriculture business, and operates the largest cassava farm in Nigeria. Guided by its four pillars of large-scale cultivation, aggregation, processing and agro-allied investment, the company has implemented an innovative in-grower/out-grower model and forged high-impact partnerships, including a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Ekiti State to cultivate 100,000 hectares of farmland over the next decade.

Chairman of Agbeyewa and Cavista Holdings, Niyi John Olajide, described the acquisition as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s economic future:

“This is about building a resilient agricultural value chain that creates real impact. From increased cassava offtake to expanded processing and industrial supply, this acquisition supports food security, import substitution, and—most importantly—creates jobs, jobs, and more jobs for Nigerians. We are investing to grow capacity, expand opportunities for farmers, and create sustainable employment across communities.”

Commenting on the transaction, Chief Sanusi said: “For some time, we have been deliberate about finding the right partners to take Matna Foods to its next phase of growth. We were not looking for just a buyer, but a partner with the scale, discipline, and long-term vision to grow the business sustainably. Agbeyewa stood out because of its commitment to agriculture, its strong execution capacity, and its alignment with the original vision behind Matna. We are confident that this acquisition positions the company for renewed growth and greater impact.”

Due to rising demands of stash, a recent research by experts indicated that over reliance on foreign imports could frustrate government policy on backward integration as well as creating unnecessary barriers in the local manufacturing sector. This must have informed the decision of the management of Agbeyewa farms to search for a suitable location with good access to the manufacturing hubs in Lagos, Ogun and Oyo States for easy access to raw materials.

In an interview with the new Managing Director of Matna Foods, Mr. Seyi Aiyeleso, he explicitly shared insights into the journey to agricultural processing. “Our decision to go into processing didn’t start the day we acquired Matna but rather, the background had been laid with the establishment of Agbeyewa Farms a few years ago.

“While we rely on what comes out of our farm as a major chunk for our manufacturing activity, we are also currently working with farmers in the entire value chain to source for more cassava. This is poised to keep the factory running with the volume of raw materials required for production.”

According to Aiyeleso, as capital intensive as the project appears to be, the gains far outweigh the pains in the long run.

February 1, 2026
Ardova plc poised to serve mass market with new lubricant

In its quest to serve the mass market segment of the downstream sector, Ardova Plc formally unveiled a lubricant into its product line in Lagos on Thursday.

At the official unveiling of the company’s new lubricant product, AP Supermax, the Deputy Managing Director of Ardova Plc, Dr. Abiola Babatunde Ojo assured that the company was committed to addressing the yearnings of its customers; hence it set machinery in motion to berth the new product.

Ojo also explained that the launch of AP Supermax marks a strategic milestone for Ardova Plc, traditionally known for its premium lubricant brands.

She said the company identified a growing need to deliver a high-quality lubricant that remains affordable in a price-sensitive market, without compromising performance.

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Describing AP Supermax as a “fighter brand,” Ojo said the product was developed to compete effectively in the mass-market segment, attract new customers, and expand Ardova’s market reach, while complementing its existing premium portfolio.

“AP Supermax allows us to maintain premium quality standards while offering a pocket-friendly option. It is designed to meet the needs of everyday users and older engines, without replacing our premium brands,” she explained.

She clarified that AP Supermax is a monograde oil specifically targeted at older vehicles, small engines, and generators, while modern vehicles requiring multigrade or synthetic oils should continue to use Ardova’s premium products such as AP Visco and AP Super V. Despite its positioning, she noted that AP Supermax delivers key benefits including engine cleanliness, high-temperature protection, corrosion resistance, and mechanical stability.

On packaging, Ojo said the product is currently available in one-litre and four-litre packs, reflecting prevailing market demand and usage patterns.

She added that Ardova would consider additional pack sizes if customer needs evolve.

Also speaking at the event, the General Manager, AP Lubricants, Sales and Marketing, Folasade Taiwo, said the competitive pricing of AP Supermax is supported by Ardova’s production scale, efficient supply chain, and in-house manufacturing capacity.

She disclosed that the product is already available across 11 warehouses and more than 700 retail stations nationwide, ensuring wide accessibility for consumers.

Taiwo added that the company is working closely with distributors and retailers to sustain affordability while maintaining value for end users.

“AP Supermax is competitively priced, and we are committed to monitoring pricing sustainability across the retail network to ensure customers continue to get value,” she said.

Speaking earlier, Engr. Ibrahim Bamgbopa, GEGM, Assets & Project Management, shared the company’s operational capacity and business perspective, noting that it caters for every market segment; it is a product for everyday use without any class distinction.

February 1, 2026
Will new ATM policy tackle cash crunch?

Apparently worried about the persistent scarcity or paucity of funds in most banks ATM, a new policy brief by the Central Bank of Nigeria hopes to address this cash crunch, reports Ibrahim Apekhade Yusuf

In its quest to attack the hydra-monster of cash crunch in the system the apex regulatory bank of the money deposit banks-Central Bank of Nigeria, had almost a fortnight ago announced plans to introduce a new regulatory policy aimed at sanitising debit card issuance and ATM operations across Nigerian banks, in a bid to address persistent cash access challenges.

The announcement was made by CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso through his Special Adviser, Fatai Karim, at the 2026 Committee of Heads of Bank Operations Conference.

According to the apex bank, the policy will ensure that the number of cards issued by banks corresponds with their deployed ATM infrastructure, helping to reduce congestion, downtime, and uneven cash availability nationwide.

The CBN noted that recurring ATM failures and cash shortages continue to undermine public confidence in electronic payment channels, even as digital transactions grow rapidly across the banking sector.

“Very soon, the Central Bank will be coming up with another policy to sanitise and improve the situation, particularly around how many cards banks issue relative to the number of ATMs they support. When cash access fails, whether due to prolonged ATM outages or uneven distribution, the credibility of the entire payment system is weakened,” the bank said.

Karim added that the CBN is engaging industry stakeholders and expects the policy to take effect within months, possibly before the end of the second quarter of 2026.

The apex bank said banks will no longer be allowed to issue massive volumes of cards without corresponding investment in ATM and cash withdrawal infrastructure.

“Very soon, the Central Bank will be coming up with another policy to sanitise and improve the situation, particularly around how many cards banks issue relative to the number of ATMs they support.

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“Certainly the next few months; once the engagement is concluded with other stakeholders, CBN will make an announcement. When cash access fails—whether due to prolonged ATM outages or uneven distribution—the credibility of the entire payment system is weakened,” the CBN stated.

Nigeria’s banks have aggressively issued debit cards over the years to support financial inclusion and digital payments, but ATM deployment has not kept pace.

Card issuance expanded faster than ATM networks and cash logistics investments.

Customers frequently experience long queues, empty machines, and failed transactions. Informal cash channels, such as POS operators, have filled gaps at higher costs.

These structural gaps have persisted despite regulatory efforts to modernise payments and improve cash circulation nationwide.

The proposed policy is expected to reshape banks’ card issuance strategies and accelerate investment in ATM infrastructure, uptime, and cash management.

Banks will face tighter scrutiny over card issuance volumes and ATM deployment. Customers are expected to benefit from improved ATM availability and reduced transaction friction.

Stronger infrastructure could reduce reliance on informal cash channels. The CBN said restoring credibility in cash access and electronic payments is critical to financial system stability and public trust.

The CBN says cash remains relevant despite digital growth, particularly in informal markets and rural communities.

Cash demand rises sharply when electronic channels fail. Reliable digital channels help reduce pressure on physical cash.

The apex bank insists its objective is not to eliminate cash but to strike a balance between cash and digital payments, ensuring Nigerians can always access cash while building confidence in electronic channels across the country during everyday transactions and emergencies nationwide

The move is expected to enhance ATM reliability, improve cash distribution, and restore confidence in Nigeria’s electronic payment system, benefiting both banks and customers nationwide.

The announcement comes as Nigeria closed 2025 with a record N5.4 trillion in currency held outside the banking system, indicating a strong preference for cash among households and businesses.

Data from the CBN shows that only a fraction of Nigeria’s physical cash remains in deposit money banks, with total currency in circulation reaching N5.7 trillion by December 2025.

The rise in cash outside banks has coincided with broader money supply growth, which reached approximately N124.4 trillion by year-end. CBN to tackle recurring ATM failures and uneven cash availability.

Currency outside banks, representing cash held by households, traders, and businesses beyond regulated institutions, surpassed the previous record of N5.125 trillion set in December 2024.

Analysts say the surge underscores the widening gap between formal financial channels and Nigeria’s cash economy, even as regulators push for mobile banking, financial inclusion, and electronic payment adoption.

Banks issue update on card maintenance fee Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Nigerian banks have begun deducting a 7.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) on card maintenance fees and other selected electronic banking charges, which kicked off officially on January 19, 2026.

Under the new arrangement, a N50 card maintenance fee now attracts an additional N3.75 as VAT. Wema Bank customer showed both N50 and N3.75 were removed separately for the same transaction, even though the account balance initially appeared unchanged after the first debit.

Cash outside banks

The announcement comes as Nigeria closed 2025 with a record N5.4 trillion in currency held outside the banking system, indicating a strong preference for cash among households and businesses. Data from the CBN shows that only a fraction of Nigeria’s physical cash remains in deposit money banks, with total currency in circulation reaching N5.7 trillion by December 2025.

The rise in cash outside banks has coincided with broader money supply growth, which reached approximately N124.4 trillion by year-end.

Currency outside banks, representing cash held by households, traders, and businesses beyond regulated institutions, surpassed the previous record of N5.125 trillion set in December 2024. Analysts say the surge underscores the widening gap between formal financial channels and Nigeria’s cash economy, even as regulators push for mobile banking, financial inclusion, and electronic payment adoption, the Sun reports. Banks issue update on card maintenance fee Wema Bank customer showed both N50 and N3.75 were removed separately for the same transaction, even though the account balance initially appeared unchanged after the first debit.

Despite high, record-level cash circulation, citizens face long ATM queues and reliance on expensive Point of Sale (POS) agents, thus the crisis continues to adversely impact daily commerce and fueling economic hardship.

Despite the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reporting high cash volumes, citizens continue to experience severe scarcity, causing long lines at ATMs and banking halls.

The paradox is that even with about ₦5.4 trillion in circulation, cash remains scarce in banks, indicating hoarding or systemic inefficiency and the implication is that the shortage has driven up transaction costs, with many relying on POS operators who charge high fees, just as the crisis continue to have rippled negative effects on small businesses and daily transactions, adding to high inflation and general economic hardship.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has established New Minimum Standards for ATM Deployment, Operations, Maintenance, and Security.

The apex bank said the new ratio contained in its circular titled, “Exposure of the Draft Guidelines on the Operations of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in Nigeria,” released weekend, supersedes previous ATM regulations.

According to the new regulation, all card issuers must deploy at least one ATM per 5,000 payment cards issued.

This, the apex bank directed, must be fully achieved within three years (100% by 2028), starting with 30% in the first year (2026).

It added that ATMs must be located in a way that guarantees safety and security of users and confidentiality of transactions. They should not be placed outside buildings unless bolted to the floor.

CBN further directed: “ATM deployment, redeployment, and decommissioning require prior written approval from the CBN.

“Independent ATM Deployers (IADs) must obtain prior written approval from CBN and satisfy licensing/registration requirements, including evidence of partnership with a bank for cash provisioning.”

On failed transactions and refunds it directed that On-us ATM Transactions (using a bank’s own ATM), reversal of a failed transaction must be instant. If instant reversal fails due to technical issues, the timeline for manual reversal shall not exceed 24 hours.

Not-on-us ATM Transactions (using another bank’s ATM): refunds shall not exceed 48 hours”.

Other regulations included: Other provisions of the new directive are, “Automatic Refunds: Acquirers must adopt appropriate mechanisms to immediately initiate refunds for non-dispense errors without the prompting of the issuing bank or the customer.

“Security: All ATMs must have cameras that record all persons and activities (card insertion, cash withdrawal, etc.), but should not record customers’ keystrokes. Networks used must be tested and proven for data confidentiality.

“Anti-Skimming: ATMs shall be installed with anti-skimming devices to mitigate fraud.

“PIN/Keys: ATM keys must be changed regularly (every year), and the same keys are not to be used for multiple ATMs. Customers can change their PIN free of charge.

“Standards: All ATM deployers/acquirers must comply with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS).

“ATM Operations and Maintenance Downtime: The technical downtime for an ATM shall not exceed 72 consecutive hours. Customers must be informed if this is not practicable.

“Cash Provisioning: Cash shall be made available at all ATMs at all times. The bank that entered into an agreement with a non-bank institution for deployment is solely responsible for cash provisioning.

Information: Helpdesk contacts, charges, and fees must be adequately displayed to customers.

“Receipts: ATMs must issue receipts for all requested transactions, except for balance enquiry.

“Monitoring: CBN will conduct periodic audits and onsite checks to ensure compliance with the guidelines and availability of cash and service.

“Reporting: All institutions must render a monthly return to CBN, including new deployments, no later than the 5th of the following month.

“Penalties: Appropriate penalties shall be imposed on institutions that fail to comply.”

Deployment Targets: Banks must deploy at least 1 ATM per 5,000 cards, reaching 30% compliance in 2026, 60% in 2027, and 100% by 2028.

Security Upgrades: ATMs must have cameras (excluding keyboard areas), anti-skimming devices, and compliant security standards (PCI DSS).

Operational Requirements: Maximum 72-hour downtime, with mandatory, constant cash availability.

Transaction Fees & Limits: Daily ATM withdrawals are capped at ₦100,000, with a weekly limit of ₦500,000.

Refund Policy: Instant reversal for failed “on-us” transactions, and maximum 48 hours for “not-on-us” transactions.

Location: ATMs must be placed in safe, accessible locations for both urban and rural areas.

These guidelines, effective in 2026, also mandate that all ATM deployments, redeployments, and decommissioning receive prior written approval from the CBN.

Speaking at the 2026 Chief Human Resources Officers Conference in Lagos on Friday, January 23, Ngover Nwankwo, Executive Director for Business and Products at NIBSS, said the next phase of payment innovation in Nigeria must be inclusive by design. The Nigerian government plans offline payments for Nigerians.

“Our focus is balancing innovation with inclusion, ensuring no Nigerian is left behind as digital payment adoption grows,” Nwankwo said.

She explained that while digital payments are expanding rapidly, a significant segment of the population still struggles with poor connectivity, limited data access, and low digital literacy. Offline payments, she said, would help bridge that gap.

Nwankwo stressed that despite the growth of electronic transactions, cash remains central to Nigeria’s economy and daily life. She dismissed the idea that cash could be eliminated in the near future, insisting that both cash and digital channels must coexist.

“Cash and digital platforms must work together, protecting those who rely on cash while offering secure and efficient services to digital users,” she said. She praised Nigerian banks for recent operational improvements, noting that cash availability during the busy December 2025 period was largely smooth, with minimal public complaints.

According to her, this reflected better planning and coordination across the banking system. Biometrics and simpler access Beyond offline payments, NIBSS is also advancing biometric solutions to simplify access to financial services. Nwankwo highlighted biometric authentication that allows customers to request and verify payment cards using fingerprints, reducing paperwork and documentation barriers.

Cash growth and policy concerns

Presenting a paper at the conference, Lloyd Onaghinon, managing director of Bankers Warehouse Plc, said cash continues to play a critical role globally, even as electronic payments expand. “Globally, cash usage continues to grow, driven by culture, demographics, trust, and financial inclusion,” Onaghinon said.

However, he warned that excessive cash held outside the banking system weakens financial intermediation and limits the effectiveness of monetary policy. He called for closer collaboration among regulators, banks, and other stakeholders to strike a sustainable balance between cash, electronic payments, and emerging digital currencies. CBN pushes to formalise idle cash In a goodwill message, the Central Bank of Nigeria urged financial institutions to partner more closely with fintech companies and microfinance institutions to bring idle cash into the formal system.

CBN Director for Other Financial Institutions Supervision, Solaja Olayemi, said about 90 per cent of Nigeria’s cash remains outside the banking system. He noted that fintechs and technology-driven microfinance institutions have wider agent networks, particularly in underserved areas.

February 1, 2026