A long list of Nigerian music stars led by Wande Coal, Zlatan, Shoday, and DJ Neptune, will ignite fun and thrills at the Nigerian Breweries Plc backed Goldberg Golden Xmas Concert. Scheduled to take place on December 13 at Polo Club, Ibadan, the announcement was made at the brand’s Legendary Christmas Press Cocktail, where the full lineup of performers was unveiled.
Also joining the headliners are Jerry Shaffer, and Tolu Daniels – a powerful mix of Afrobeats vocalists, street-pop heavyweights, high-energy DJ and hypemen curated to deliver a night of pure December excitement.
The 2025 edition reinforces Goldberg’s deep connection to the Southwest – its culture, its music, and its community. On the night, the Ibadan Polo Club will transform into a vibrant space where the region’s cultural identity, modern sound, and December excitement come together in one unforgettable experience.
For decades, Nigerian Breweries has shaped the heartbeat of December in Nigeria – fueling concerts, carnivals, nightlife, and the festive traditions that have evolved into what the world now recognises as Detty December.
As the season has grown into a N100+ billion cultural and economic force, the company’s brands have remained at the centre of the celebration, driving the energy that brings millions together.
This year, as part of the Nigerian breweries Legendary Christmas campaign, Goldberg brand is taking that legacy further by delivering an electrifying Xmas concert in Ibadan – an experience designed to amplify the spirit of the season and deepen its connection to the Southwest.
Speaking at the press cocktail, Sarah Agha, Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, described “Legendary Christmas” as more than a campaign, but a statement of intent. She said, “Every December, Nigeria transforms into something extraordinary. What began as a local year-end celebration has evolved into a global cultural export, a season the world now calls Detty December. Our brands have always been part of that energy. This year, we are taking it a step further by leading the charge, creating experiences across the country that capture the joy, creativity, and togetherness that make this season special.”
The Golden Xmas Concert is expected to draw thousands of music lovers, culture enthusiasts, and Goldberg loyalists from across the region, capturing the spirit of the season and celebrating the identity of the Southwest in its purest form.
The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has congratulated Abubakar Yakubu on his election as President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) at the Guild’s national convention held in Benin City, Edo State.
In a statement signed by the Executive Director/CEO of the NFVCB, Dr. Shaibu Husseini, the Board described Yakubu’s emergence as a well-deserved recognition of his longstanding dedication, professionalism, and service to the Nigerian motion picture industry.
Dr. Husseini noted that Yakubu’s over ten years of service as Secretary General of the Guild has equipped him with the experience and institutional knowledge required to provide effective leadership at this pivotal time.
“The Actors Guild of Nigeria remains a critical stakeholder in the creative economy. Its stability, professionalism, and ethical grounding are vital to the overall growth and global competitiveness of our film industry,” Dr. Husseini stated.
He charged the newly elected President to lead efforts to reposition the Guild, re-engineer its internal structures, and strengthen its capacity to serve members more effectively. He emphasized the need for the AGN under Yakubu’s leadership to prioritise members’ welfare, enhance capacity-building initiatives, and invest in programmes that directly support professional development.
Dr. Husseini also urged the new administration to resist the temptation of embarking on activities or projects that fall outside the core mandate of the Guild or do not contribute meaningfully to its professional objectives. He stressed that staying focused on mission-driven programmes will ensure credibility, continuity, and measurable impact.
The NFVCB expressed confidence that Yakubu will provide purposeful leadership and reaffirmed its willingness to continue supporting the Guild in the collective effort to strengthen the Nigerian creative and entertainment sector.
Since its introduction, the ZyphorBit online trading platform has been attracting significant buzz from every direction. The system employs cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence and algorithms, to deliver detailed market analysis and signal creation. As stated by the founders, the platform links traders with licensed brokers in the field who provide guidance throughout all phases of trading. This ZyphorBit assessment offers a thorough overview of the platform, addressing key factors that will help you determine whether to commit to it. Dive in!
In this section, let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of the ZyphorBit crypto trading system:
Pros
Simple and secure account signup process
Integration of the latest technologies
Real-time market analysis
Precise trade signals and insights
A wide range of assets
Extra tools and resources
24/7 customer support
Strict safety measures
Secure banking options
Partnership with regulated brokers
Mobile accessibility
A demo or practice account
A high success rate
Designed for both experts and beginners
No hidden fees or commissions
Cons
Currently, the ZyphorBit online trading bot is not accessible in some regions, like Israel, Cyprus, and Iran, where local laws prevent crypto-related activities
What is ZyphorBit? ZyphorBit is an online trading platform designed to streamline and automate the trading process. It incorporates modern technologies, including artificial intelligence and algorithms, to perform thorough market analysis, gather data, and generate trading signals. According to the founders, the system works in partnership with trustworthy brokers in the sector.
The platform offers a variety of standout features and functions, such as an easy-to-use interface, a demo account, additional tools and learning materials, round-the-clock customer assistance, strong security protocols, safe banking options, personalization features, portfolio diversification, and more.
Is ZyphorBit Trustworthy?
Available information on reputable crypto communities and review sources indicates that the ZyphorBit bot is presented as a functioning and trustworthy platform. It uses modern technologies, including artificial intelligence and algorithms, to conduct continuous market analysis and generate signals. It also features a straightforward and secure sign-up procedure and works alongside brokers described as regulated within the industry.
The system provides various tools and educational materials for additional user support. It includes secure payment options for smoother transactions and offers round-the-clock customer assistance. It also implements safety practices and protocols to help protect user data. Based on these factors and the generally positive comments from users online, the ZyphorBit bot is portrayed as credible, though individuals should always conduct their own research before engaging with any trading platform.
ZyphorBit Registration Guide
The ZyphorBit online trading system uses an easy and secure enrollment procedure that can be finished within minutes. The instructions to follow are outlined below:
Step 1 – Set Up Your Account Begin by setting up your ZyphorBit trading profile. To do this, fill out the sign-up form with your name, email address, phone number, and location. After that, confirm the verification email to finalize the account creation.
Step 2 – Add Funds Next, you must add money to your trading account so the platform can use it for live trades. The minimum amount required to start real-time trading is €250. You can transfer this balance through a debit/credit card, an e-wallet, or a direct bank transaction.
Step 3 – Begin Trading The last stage in the process is to customize your trading account so the system can execute live trades based on your choices. You can easily modify the parameters, tactics, and additional preferences.
The platform implements strong security measures and protocols to safeguard traders’ information and funds. This involves advanced encryption methods, authentication features, offline storage, and routine inspections. With these systems in place, it helps block external threats and enables traders and investors to engage in safe, low-risk trading.
ZyphorBit Asset Diversification and Risk Control
The ZyphorBit platform enables users to trade across various asset classes, including cryptocurrencies, stocks, forex pairs, shares, futures, commodities, bonds, and derivatives. This allows traders to broaden their portfolios and manage risks, such as unexpected market declines, more effectively. It also helps them capitalize on different market opportunities and enhance potential returns.
ZyphorBit Supported Countries
At present, the ZyphorBit online trading platform is accessible in many regions worldwide where cryptocurrency trading and similar activities are legally permitted. Below is a list featuring some of the major eligible countries:
The user responses to the ZyphorBit online trading system have been overwhelmingly positive so far, with many traders and investors commenting that it is easy to use, connects with regulated brokers, offers additional tools and resources, ensures 24/7 customer support, and guarantees safety and security. They have rated the platform a 4.7/5, indicating that the system is safe and efficient.
ZyphorBit Expert Analysis
Industry specialists have evaluated the performance of the ZyphorBit trading platform and shared a detailed summary of their findings. In their assessment, they note that the system is simple to use, works with licensed brokers, provides accurate signals and analytics, delivers 24/7 customer assistance, safeguards data and funds, and more. Experts have given the platform a 4.5/5 score. Even so, they emphasize the constantly changing market environment and advise users to engage in responsible trading for safer transactions.
ZyphorBit Pricing, Initial Deposit, and Earnings Compared to many other trading platforms, the ZyphorBit trading system is cost-effective, requiring only a small deposit of €250 to begin live trading. The platform also does not charge any additional fees or commissions for account setup, account management, deposits, or withdrawals. As stated by the founders, traders can generate notable returns even with a small initial deposit. This is considered the safest method for a smooth and stress-free trading experience.
Final Thoughts on ZyphorBit Considering all the available information, the ZyphorBit trading software appears to be genuine and trustworthy. The platform leverages advanced technologies, such as AI-driven algorithms, to perform comprehensive market analysis and generate trading signals. It collaborates with reliable brokers or personal account managers in the industry who provide support throughout the trading journey. Numerous traders have already joined the platform and rated it 4.7/5, reflecting its efficiency.
Based on ZyphorBit reviews, the system bridges the gap between traders and the crypto market by offering several user-friendly features and tools, including an intuitive interface, a demo or practice account, additional resources, secure banking options, strict security protocols, and more.
ZyphorBit is budget-friendly, requiring a minimum investment of €250 to start live trading, with no hidden fees or commissions. The platform is accessible on all devices, including smartphones with internet access and a web browser. Overall, the system seems legitimate and a worthwhile option for investment.
Who can trade using ZyphorBit? Traders of all levels can use ZyphorBit as it provides a variety of user-friendly features and tools, including an intuitive interface, a demo account, and more.
Is there a practice mode available on ZyphorBit? ZyphorBit offers a demo or practice mode with virtual funds, allowing traders to explore the market, test strategies, and learn trading without risking real money.
How quickly are payouts processed on ZyphorBit? The platform guarantees fast withdrawals by supporting reliable payment options, such as debit/credit cards, e-wallets, and local bank transfers.
What is the verification procedure for ZyphorBit? ZyphorBit uses a thorough verification process to confirm the eligibility of traders and promote responsible and secure trading.
Can ZyphorBit be trusted for trading? ZyphorBit is considered safe and dependable because it follows strict security protocols, works with verified brokers, provides 24/7 customer support, and more.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the death of Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, as an irreparable loss to the state and the party.
Sources on Thursday night said that Ewhrudjakpo collapsed at the Bayelsa State Government House on Thursday and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa, before being transferred to the Intensive Care Unit, where he reportedly died.
He was aged 60.
In a statement, the party’s factional national publicity secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, said, “The PDP received with deep shock the news of the passing of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State and a trusted, faithful party man, His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Oborawharievwo Ewhrudjakpo.”
The statement added that the news has thrown the National Working Committee, led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, and the entire membership of the party, particularly loyal members in Bayelsa State into deep grief.
“Senator Ewhrudjakpo was an honest and principled politician who practised politics with integrity. He was a leader of conviction, anchored in belief, character, and strength, virtues he upheld until his final moments.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of this hero of political integrity and pray that God grants his soul eternal rest. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Bayelsa State on this painful loss.”
The Imo state government, working with the state police command, has demolished several properties allegedly connected to Stanley Oparaugo, who is wanted by authorities over suspected involvement in organ harvesting.
The affected structures include Jessy Best Hotel and Ugwudi Cottage Hospital mortuary services along the Owerri-Aba Road in Ngor Okpala Local Government Area.
Speaking at the demolition site, Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma said the action followed a directive from Governor Hope Uzodimma after the facilities were identified as hideouts for criminal activities linked to organ harvesting.
He said, “The order to demolish the properties was issued by Governor Hope Uzodimma. The owner, Stanley Oparaugo, has been declared wanted for refusing to honour police invitations. Credible intelligence indicated that these properties served as hubs for criminal operations.”
Danjuma further noted that the mortuary was under suspicion after mutilated bodies were reportedly discovered there.
“The suspect can run, but he cannot hide. The law will catch up with him,” he said.
Health Commissioner Chioma Egu stated that the demolition was necessary to avert health and security risks, adding that the facility was unregistered and that vital organs were missing from some corpses deposited there.
Ngor Okpala LGA Chairman, Chika Ibekwe, commended the governor, saying the community welcomed the move as part of ongoing efforts to enhance safety for residents and visitors.
The demolition was executed by a team led by Chinasa Nwaneri, special adviser to the governor on monitoring and compliance.
Last week, a joint team of government officials and police uncovered hundreds of mutilated bodies in the mortuary, heightening concerns over suspected organ harvesting activities.
The Chief Executive Officer of New Chip Technology Limited, Jesufemi Adeogun, has urged the government to adopt practical measures to strengthen Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (SMEs) in the face of challenging business environment.
Adeogun, while speaking at an interaction with reporters in Ikeja Club, lamented that that the current economic policies of the government though promising on paper, are not addressing the core challenges faced by SME’s.
Lamenting the operational challenges faced by SME’S, particularly power supply, he said business owners at Ikeja Computer Village are forced to rely on generators and buy expensive fuel which would have eroded whatever profits that might have accrued to their business.
He also added that the potential health hazards of relying on generators and it’s propensity to result in fire outbreak.
Adeogun urged the government to subsidise infrastructure in major business clusters such as Computer Village and Alaba International Market and also reinforce the area with good telecommunications system to prevent the lack of services that result into waste of time and money.
He said, “Even basic services like mobile network connectivity are unreliable in areas that generate “billions of dollars per day.”
He urged the government to prioritise and protect local business hubs.
Praising the government for granting tax reliefs to small businesses, he, however, noted that many SMEs are unaware that the law still requires them to file monthly tax reports despite the reliefs, exposing them to penalties.
“There is no negligence under the law,” he warned, adding that many entrepreneurs may miss out on intended benefits simply due to ignorance.
Highlighting his company’s interventions, he said, they have organised digitalisation and business development workshops in partnership with Facebook, Google, NASIMA, and other business associations to help SMEs grow.
He urged the government to acquire minority shares in thriving Nigerian-owned businesses, just as it has done with the Dangote Refinery.
The CEO added that if the government invests 5–10 per cent equity in high-performing SMEs, it would not only boost their stability but also strengthen the national economy, adding that, “Such direct investments, combined with improved infrastructure, would significantly reduce the rate at which SMEs struggle or collapse.”
The Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has ordered the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to apologise to Dubai-based businessman, Alhaji Rabiu Auwalu Tijjani, for unlawfully declaring him wanted, ruling that the action violated his fundamental rights.
Delivering judgment, Justice H. Buhari held that the EFCC acted outside its statutory powers when it published Tijjani’s name and photograph on its website without first obtaining a court order or exhausting all lawful procedures. The decision was contained in a certified true copy issued on Thursday.
Tijjani, a Kano-born gold merchant based in Dubai, filed a fundamental rights enforcement suit against the EFCC and businessman Ifeanyi Ezeokoli. The case stemmed from a disputed multi-million-dollar gold transaction between both men dating back to 2022.
According to court documents, the parties initially reconciled an overpayment of ₦26 million. However, an independent audit later allegedly uncovered an additional discrepancy of more than $2 million in Tijjani’s favour. Tijjani subsequently reported the matter to the Department of State Services (DSS), and both sides submitted documents to the agency for investigation.
While the DSS inquiry was still ongoing, Ezeokoli petitioned the EFCC. Tijjani told the court that although the EFCC contacted him via WhatsApp and he sent a representative, neither of them was invited again before the Commission proceeded to declare him wanted — a move he said tarnished his global business reputation.
Justice Buhari ruled that although the EFCC is empowered to declare suspects wanted, such actions must follow due process, including securing an order of a competent court. The arrest warrant the agency obtained from a Magistrate’s Court, the court held, did not authorise a public declaration.
The judge further emphasised that the EFCC must not interfere in matters arising purely from civil or commercial disputes, especially where another security agency — in this instance, the DSS — is already investigating the case. He cited appellate court decisions warning investigative bodies against being used to settle business disagreements or enforce debt repayment.
The court declared the EFCC’s publication unconstitutional and a violation of Tijjani’s right to personal liberty, freedom of movement, and due process.
It then ordered the Immediate removal of Tijjani’s name and photograph from the EFCC website; a public apology to the applicant and payment of ₦5 million in damages.
Tijjani had sought ₦1.5 billion and additional reliefs, but only part of his request was granted.
Thousands of worshippers are expected to attend this year’s Rhema Christian Church and Towers glorious Great Carol Service by Candlelight holding on 21 December at the church headquarters in Sango Ota, Ogun State.
Announcing the details of its much-anticipated programme which starts at 5 p.m. at the Champion Peace Cathedral in Otta, the church described the annual event as one of the most uplifting Christmas gatherings in the region, attracting worshippers from far and near.
According to the organisers, this year’s service promises a deeply moving expression of the Christmas message, complete with soul-stirring carols, timeless hymns, and musical renditions that illuminate the nativity story.
The church said the event has earned a reputation as “the best Christmas event of the year” among many who attend annually.
The 2025 theme, “Emmanuel — God With Us”, drawn from Matthew 1:23, anchors the entire celebration.
Church leaders said the theme is intended to remind worshippers of the miracle of God’s tangible presence through the birth of Jesus Christ and to strengthen faith in a season often marked by reflection and hope.
Presiding Bishop, Archbishop Dr. Taiwo Akinola, explained the spiritual weight of the theme, noting that the birth of Christ offers reassurance in challenging times.
“The birth of Jesus Christ assures us that we are never alone. God’s presence is our strength, our comfort, and our victory,” he said.
The Archbishop added that the evening would not only be centred on worship but will also carry a prophetic dimension.
He emphasised that the church expects a time of spiritual renewal and supernatural empowerment. “As we celebrate Christ, we will invoke divine light to break every form of obscurity and usher God’s people into a brighter, more impactful year ahead,” he stated.
In preparation for the event, the church’s Praise and Prayer Department has been coordinating music rehearsals and worship segments expected to feature prominently during the service. The department’s head, Pastor Tofunmi Opaleye, described the carol service as “a cherished highlight of the season.”
Pastor Opaleye said the service has grown into a beloved annual tradition marked by warmth, unity, and heartfelt worship.
“Over the years, the Carol Service by Candlelight has become a time when families reconnect, friends reunite, and our community gathers to honour the birth of Christ,” he said.
He further encouraged residents of Otta and neighbouring communities to attend the celebration, emphasising that the event is open to everyone—regardless of age, background, or denomination.
“We are inviting families, friends, and worshippers from across the region to join us for this special night of worship,” he urged.
In addition to the musical performances and readings, the church revealed that special gifts will be distributed to children below the age of fifteen. Organisers say this is part of their tradition of spreading joy and creating memorable experiences for young attendees.
The candlelight procession, a key highlight of the service, is expected to once again fill the cathedral with a soft, glowing ambience.
Church officials say the symbolic lighting of candles reflects the message of Christ as the Light of the World and remains one of the most anticipated moments of the evening.
Local residents who have attended previous editions say the atmosphere is usually electric yet deeply reverent. Many describe the carol service as a blend of worship, community bonding, and festive celebration that sets the tone for Christmas.
Cross River Governor Bassey Edet Otu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to positioning the state as a major force in Nigeria’s emerging blue economy.
He spoke at the formal launch of a World Bank–supported upskilling programme designed to equip citizens with modern, globally relevant competencies for the maritime sector.
Speaking at the opening ceremony at the State Library Complex in Calabar, Otu—represented by his deputy, Dr. Peter Odey—described the programme as “a landmark opportunity for our young people to acquire the advanced technical skills needed to unlock the vast marine resources of Cross River State.”
He maintained that Cross River, blessed with one of Nigeria’s longest coastlines, remains uniquely positioned to benefit from the new national emphasis on the blue economy.
According to him: “this initiative reflects our administration’s unyielding commitment to transforming our water-based assets into engines of economic growth, job creation and sustainable development. The time has come for Cross River to take its rightful place in the maritime sector.”
The Governor highlighted the impressive contributions of Nigeria’s maritime and marine economy to national prosperity, pointing out that the sector added ₦113.5 trillion to the country’s GDP in the third quarter of 2025.
He referenced projections by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) estimating that the nation’s blue economy potential could exceed $296 billion.
“With figures like these,” he said, “we cannot afford to stand on the sidelines. Cross River must lead from the front.”
The Governor reaffirmed the government’s resolve to actualise major maritime infrastructure, especially the Bakassi Deep Seaport.
He disclosed that a $3.5 billion investment has already been secured for the project, adding that it is awaiting presidential approval for formal groundbreaking.
“We are ready,” he assured partners, “and we will continue to work closely with the World Bank and the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to ensure our waterways, ports, fisheries and logistics platforms deliver maximum economic impact.”
The event which attracted representatives of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the World Bank, the University of Calabar and stakeholders across the maritime value chain, underscored the collaborative nature of the initiative.
Senior Special Adviser to the President on Marine and Blue Economy, Prof. Busayo Fakinlede, commended Cross River State for consistently supporting national efforts to develop a sustainable marine and blue economy.
“Cross River has always been a strategic leader,” he said. “Its rich biodiversity and coastal heritage place it at the heart of Nigeria’s blue economy ambitions.”
Fakinlede stressed that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s priorities on food security, youth empowerment, economic diversification and responsible utilisation of marine resources.
With a touch of humour, he remarked that Cross River State “should be regarded as the fish basket of the nation,” citing its outstanding fisheries output among Nigeria’s coastal states.
The World Bank Team Lead, Morales Yolanda, emphasised that developing the blue economy was essential to unlocking economic opportunities across coastal regions and the nation at large.
“The World Bank stands ready to collaborate closely with federal and state governments,” she said. “We will mobilise funding, technical expertise and strategic partnerships to ensure the success of this programme.”
A special technical presentation by the Dean of the Faculty of Oceanography, University of Calabar, Prof. Francis Nwosu, entitled: “Unlocking the Potential of a Sustainable Blue Economy for Nigeria: Cross River State in Focus,” offered participants deeper insights into the state’s unique economic and ecological advantages.
Speaking on the sidelines of the workshop, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Miss Melodie Lebo, explained that the programme will equip participants with 21st-century skills aligned with international standards.
She described the blue economy as “the sustainable use of our marine and water resources for the development of our people,” noting that it spans shipping, marine logistics, fisheries, port operations, climate change, aquaculture and coastal tourism.
According to her, participants stand to benefit greatly from the training. “They will form the skilled workforce needed for the maritime sector,” she said. “The archaic way of doing things is gone; we are aligning with global standards. After the training, they will be fully equipped with modern competencies.”
She added that the programme opens doors to job opportunities, internships and collaborations with the World Bank, stressing that this is only the first phase of a multi-stage intervention designed to deepen capacity across the state.
Lebo also disclosed that certificates issued at the end of the training will be internationally recognised.
“This is a globally benchmarked programme,” she said. “Our partnership with the World Bank and the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy guarantees that participants will receive credentials accepted anywhere in the world.”
Lebo further underscored the strong involvement of the Federal Government, pointing to the presence of senior officials at the launch, including the SSA to the President on Marine and Blue Economy. “The Federal Government is fully involved,” she emphasised.
“This programme signals the beginning of a more coordinated and transformative pathway for marine and blue economy development in Cross River State.”
In a long while, I have not seen any event in Nigeria that witnessed a convergence of high-caliber global political and business leaders like the just concluded Imo Economic Summit 2025, held at Concorde Boulevard, Owerri. The summit which launched Imo State to global horizon had in attendance notable international figures, such as the former United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon and former British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson.
African political leaders in attendance at the two-day event included President Joseph Boakai of Liberia, President Amina Akim of Mauritius and the Prime Minister of Sao Tome and Principe, Americo Ramos. Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima GCON, declared the summit open on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. Lest I forget, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Chief Wale Edun, physically attended the event that attracted several Nigerian state governors.
The roll call of the global business leaders at the summit included the richest man in Africa and founder of the multi-billion dollar Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, immediate past President of Afreximbank, Professor Benedit Oramah, Managing Directors and Chief Executive Officers of leading commercial banks in the country, and other industry leaders. The premium event was hosted by Imo State Governor, His Excellency Hope Uzodinma.
Themed: “Unlocking Imo’s Economic Potential: Partnership, Investment and Innovation,” Governor Uzodinma used the opportunity to announce the entrance of Imo State into a new era of economic transformation, driven by strategic reforms, massive infrastructure expansion and a pro-business environment designed to attract and protect investment.”
Recall that since assuming office on January 15, 2020, Governor Uzodimma has painstakingly pursued his vision of transforming Imo State into a premier economic hub, leveraging its oil and gas reserves, agriculture, strategic location and improved infrastructure. Aligned with national reforms, his vision is geared towards achieving a $1 trillion economy for the state and creating jobs, with focus on energy, digital economy, infrastructure development, agriculture and value chains, as well as security and governance.
Globalisation of Imo Economic Summit:
The Oxford Dictionary defines globalization as “the process by which businesses or other organisations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale.” Judging by this definition, the just concluded Imo Economic Summit 2025, the first of its kind in Eastern Nigeria, exemplifies a strong “consolidated” global platform for political and business leaders to brainstorm on how to take advantage of the massive transformative opportunities in Imo State to engender economic growth and sustainable development in the state and by extension, Nigeria and the African continent.
It is interesting to note that the discussions at the summit did not just centre on how to harness the economic potential of Imo State, but extended to issues of global concern, including climate change and sustainable development. The quest for Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven secure clean and sustainable power for Imo State and the entire Nigeria, Nigeria’s deep historic and cultural ties with Britain, Nigeria’s security, desire for peace, democracy and good governance in Africa, economic roadmap, both for Imo, Nigeria and Africa, and investment opportunities were equally discussed.
For instance, Ban Ki-moon reiterated that Africa holds the solutions to resolving many of the world’s pending challenges, particularly climate change and sustainable development, which the UN Sustainable Goals (SDGs) envisions. The South Korean politician and diplomat, however, made it clear that the world cannot achieve true sustainability without first addressing the unique challenges of the African continent.
Describing the climate crisis as already a lived reality, the former UN scribe urged nations to uphold the Paris Agreement despite recent setbacks. Zeroing in on the African continent, Banki-moon highlighted the injustice faced by African nations, saying “although 54 African countries contribute only four percent of global emissions, they remain among the worst affected by climate disasters.”
In a keynote address, Boris Johnson praised Governor Uzodinma for his push to provide 24-hour electricity in Imo State as part of efforts to drive economic growth. The former British Prime Minister suggested that Artificial Intelligence (AI), being the future, would play a critical role in helping the governor realise his plan to secure clean and sustainable power for Imo State and the entire Nigeria.
Johnson recalled that Nigeria and Britain share deep historic and cultural ties, strengthened by continuous exchanges of skilled professionals. Contrary to widespread security concerns about Nigeria, including the latest UK travel advisory, urging Britons to reconsider their need to visit Nigeria, Johnson declared that he felt perfectly safe in the course of his visit.
Bringing the discussion home, President Boakai noted that Imo and Liberia have a lot more in common, beyond occupying geographical space in West Africa, adding that they share a history of resilience, desire for peace, commitment to good governance and the belief that Africa can rise on its terms, through its own efforts. While highlighting Liberia’s recent elevation to a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council as an honour for Africa, Boakai looked forward to a fruitful collaboration between Imo and Liberia through regional alliances, focused on development and democratic governance. He expressed confidence that innovation could become the engine that drives the transformation of Imo State.
President Akim of Mauritius and Prime Minister Ramos of Sao Tome and Principe, also acknowledged the promise of Africa as the beacon of hope for the world, urging deeper collaboration to harness the potential of Imo, Nigeria and the African continent at large.
Instant results:
Unlike other economic summits that end in elocutions, the Imo Economic Summit started yielding instant results, with Aliko Dangote challenging Governor Uzodinma to show him where to invest and forget the rest. The President of Dangote Group expressed the readiness of his conglomerate to become the biggest investor in Imo. Dangote urged the Governor to identify priority areas, assuring that his group would make commitments once directed.
Earlier, Vice President Shettima who represented President Tinubu, reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the federal government to the economic development of Imo State and highlighted the summit’s role in fostering and attracting investments through various initiatives.
Conclusion:
By all indications, the Imo Economic Summit yielded the desired benefits. Quoting the Commissioner for Finance and Coordinating Economy in Imo State, Dr. Chuck Chuckuemeka: “Imo State has risen but people do not know it. The summit was an opportunity for people to see the quantum of transformation, innovation and investments that occurred here in the last few years, as clearly articulated in the Governor’s speech. And frankly, the level of investments inquiries in the last few days has been unabated in all sectors, anchored on the post-summit activities and strategies.”
I cannot end without applauding Governor Uzodinma for his foresight in organising the Imo Economic Summit. Section 14 (2) (b) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended) makes security and welfare of the citizens the primary duty of government. The welfare of the citizens can only be guaranteed by a viable economy. Taking a cue from the Imo State Government, the states can do a lot in this regard. It is important to note that security and welfare go hand in hand. It is difficult to have either of them without the other.
• Nzomiwu Ph.D, MNIPR is the Director of Media and Publicity, Development Communication Research Association of Nigeria (DECRAN). Reactions to this article are welcome via chekmma@yahoo.com and 08037752672 (WhatsApp only)
