The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • 78-year-old bags PhD in UNILAG

    78-year-old bags PhD in UNILAG

    The University of Lagos (UNILAG) yesterday conferred a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in French on a 78-year-old, Dr. Hammid Taju, at its ongoing convocation.

    A monarch, Oba Sulaimon Bangbande, the Olofin of Isheri, also bagged a Master of Science (M.Sc) in System Engineering.

    The institution’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, announced the feats at the university’s 56th convocation ceremonies.

    Ogunsola said a total of 5,775 students graduated from UNILAG’s School of Postgraduate Studies and University of Lagos Business School (ULBS).

    “We have among the graduands today Dr. Taju, who obtained a PhD in French at a young age of 78 years. He is the oldest graduating student this year. We also have an inspirational figure, Oba Sulaimon Bangbande, the Olofin of Isheri, who is also graduating with a Master of Science (M.Sc) in System Engineering.

    READ ALSO: Critical success factors for Nigeria’s economy this year

    “The highlight of the day will be recognition of various individuals for their outstanding contributions to scholarship and humanity. Two retired academics, Prof. James Olowokudejo of the Department of Botany, and Prof. Duro Oni of the Department of Theatre Arts, will be honoured as Emeritus Professors. In addition, Prof. Akinsanya Osibogun, a distinguished Scholar of Medicine, will be conferred with the title of Distinguished Professor. Gold medals will also be awarded to Prof. Ayoka Olusakin, a Professor of Counselling Psychology,” she said.

    The Vice Chancellor announced that 41 out of the 479 students who concluded their postgraduate diploma programmes made distinctions.

    She added that 429 made distinctions out of the 5,184 who concluded their Master’s programmes.

    Ogunsola said among 112 ULBS students, 32 made distinctions.

    Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), urged the graduates to be good and worthy ambassadors of the university.

    The eminent lawyer called for strict legislation against cybercrimes, describing the internet and social media as a bedlam.

    Olanipekun noted that people do all sorts of things on the internet and get away with it in Nigeria, unlike in other countries.

  • Uphold fairness, unity, Tinubu tells FCC leadership

    Uphold fairness, unity, Tinubu tells FCC leadership

    • Omidiran, 37 commissioners take oaths of office

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday urged the leadership of the Federal Character Commission (FCC) to uphold fairness, diligence, and patriotism.

    The President described the assignment of the FCC commissioners as central to Nigeria’s unity, stability, and national conscience.

    President Tinubu spoke after administering the oaths of office on the commission’s new chairman and 37 commissioners at the State House in Abuja.

    The President said the commission must reflect Nigeria’s diversity and complexity in all its actions, stressing that its mandate to promote equity in public service appointments is vital to ensuring that every section of the country feels a sense of belonging.

    “What you represent here today is the conscience of our nation. What you are being assigned to do is to promote and stabilise the conscience of this country — to be fair, diligent, committed, and patriotic,” President Tinubu said.

    READ ALSO: When hospitals kill

    He stressed that Nigeria possesses the human resources, capacity and divine endowment required to build a strong and prosperous nation.

    The President urged the commissioners to see their appointment as a call to service rather than personal privilege.

    “We have the human resources, the ability, and the capacity to build our country,” the President said, challenging the new leadership to continually examine their individual contributions to national development, growth, stability, and unity.

    Drawing from the words of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, President Tinubu urged them to ask not what the country can do for them but what they can do to make Nigeria greater by faithfully reflecting its federal character.

    The President added that the success of the FCC in promoting inclusiveness and fairness rests squarely on the conduct of its leadership.

    According to him, their actions in office must strengthen national cohesion and public confidence in government institutions.

    President Tinubu swore in the new FCC Chairman, Hulayat Omidiran, alongside 37 commissioners representing the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    Omidiran, 59, succeeds Dr. Muheeba Dankaka.

    A former two-term member of the House of Representatives, Omidiran represented the Ayedaade/Irewole/Isokan Federal Constituency of Osun State from 2011 to 2019.

    An indigene of Ikire, Osun State, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, and brings to the office broad experience in legislative work and sports administration.

    She previously served as Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Sports and held several positions in football administration, including board membership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), chairperson of the NFF Women’s Football Committee, membership of the FIFA Women’s Football Committee, and service on the Board of Trustees of the Nigeria Olympic Committee.

    She is also the founder of Omidiran Babes Football Club, established in Osogbo in 1997.

    President Tinubu appointed Omidiran on August 11, last year, in a reversal after an earlier announcement of the reappointment of her predecessor.

    Her nomination was confirmed by the Senate on November 27, last year, following statutory vetting, including security screening and an appearance before the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs.

    Mohammed Musa was also sworn in as Secretary of the commission.

    Speaking on behalf of the new leadership, Omidiran promised that the commission would ensure that every Nigerian feels a sense of ownership in the country by the end of the current administration.

    She noted that the FCC was established by patriotic Nigerians to guarantee equitable distribution of national opportunities and resources across the federation.

    “Nigeria has good things in abundance, but they must go round every nook and cranny of the country to engender inclusivity,” she said.

    Omidiran promised that the commission would leverage Nigeria’s diversity as a source of strength while renewing hope through transparent and balanced representation in public institutions.

    The new FCC chairman assured fellow Nigerians that the commission would operate under the guidance of President Tinubu, ensuring that its work contributes to national unity, stability and confidence in government processes.

    The brief ceremony was attended by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake; the Permanent Secretary in the State House, Temitope Fashedemi; and the Permanent Secretary in the Cabinet Affairs Office, Dr. John Ezeamama.

  • Akpabio asks Supreme Court to hear appeal on Natasha’s suspension

    Akpabio asks Supreme Court to hear appeal on Natasha’s suspension

    The legal dispute arising from the suspension of Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has moved to the Supreme Court.

    This followed an application filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio in his official capacity.

    Court documents indicate that Akpabio has approached the apex court seeking to regularise and sustain his appeal against decisions connected to the suspension of the Kogi Central lawmaker.

    The application was filed at the Supreme Court in Abuja.

    In the suit, Akpabio is listed as the appellant, while the respondents are: Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, Neda Imasuen.

    The dispute followed events at a Senate plenary in February, last year, when Akpoti-Uduaghan raised issues on parliamentary privilege and procedure.

    READ ALSO: Critical success factors for Nigeria’s economy this year

    The matter was referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions and subsequently led to her suspension from legislative activities.

    Challenging the disciplinary action, Akpoti-Uduaghan instituted a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja, alleging breaches of her right to fair hearing and non-compliance with the Senate Standing Orders.

    In a judgment delivered on July 4, last year, the court considered issues on parliamentary procedure and judicial intervention in legislative affairs.

    Following the proceedings at the Court of Appeal, Akpabio has now filed an application at the Supreme Court seeking the extension of time to apply for leave to appeal, leave to appeal on grounds of mixed law and fact, and an order deeming his notice of appeal and brief of argument as properly filed and served.

    The application, brought pursuant to the Supreme Court Rules, the Supreme Court Act, and the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), argues that the appeal raised constitutional and procedural questions.

    Akpabio is contending that the Senate acted under Section 60 of the Constitution, which empowers the National Assembly to regulate its internal procedures.

    The Senate President also argues that the presiding officer of the Senate is not required to immediately rule on every point of privilege raised during plenary.

    He added that the Senate’s internal disciplinary processes were invoked in line with its rules.

    But Akpoti-Uduaghan maintained that her suspension breached her right to fair hearing and that the Senate did not comply with its Standing Orders before referring her to the Ethics Committee and imposing sanctions.

    The Nation confirmed on Wednesday, January 21, that her legal counsel was formally served with the Supreme Court processes, bringing all parties before the apex court.

    The matter also includes a related contempt proceeding arising from a social media post made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan while the suit was pending.

    The Federal High Court held that the post violated a subsisting order, imposed a fine and directed a public apology.

    The senator has appealed the decision, arguing that the alleged contempt was criminal in nature and required compliance with statutory procedures.

    The case is now before the Supreme Court for further adjudication.

  • False claims against Tinubu: DSS tenders Sowore’s post in court

    False claims against Tinubu: DSS tenders Sowore’s post in court

    • Secret police play video evidence

    • Court frowns at defendant’s use of phone during proceedings

    The trial of politician and online publisher Omoyele Sowore opened yesterday in the cybercrime case against him.

    The prosecution called its first witness, Cyril Nosike, an official of the Department of State Services (DSS).

    The witness told the court that Sowore’s claim that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was a criminal generated tension and threatened public safety.

    The DSS is prosecuting Sowore for allegedly making a false claim against President Tinubu in a post he made on his X and Facebook accounts.

    The defendant is accused of contravening the provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Amendment Act, 2024.

    Nosike, who was led in evidence by prosecuting lawyer, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), said he is stationed at the Cyber Space Monitoring Centre of the DSS and that his duty includes monitoring the cyber space for 24 hours, night and day.

    READ ALSO: Critical success factors for Nigeria’s economy this year

    The witness said in the course of his duty on August 26, last year, at the Cyber Space Monitoring Centre, he detected and monitored a post by the defendant (Sowore) through his X platform.

    The DSS officer said the post referred to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, about whom Sowore said: “This criminal @OfficialABAT actually went to Brazil to state that there is no MORE corruption under his regime in Nigeria. What audacity to lie shamelessly!”

    The witness said when he came across the video, which Sowore allegedly posted and under which the defendant wrote the statement, he (the witness) downloaded it and saved it in a flash drive and marked it XYZ.

    When shown the flash drive and a certificate of compliance, he identified them as the items he referred to.

    The prosecuting lawyer then applied to tender them in evidence.

    Defence lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, said he would reserve his objection, which he intended to raise at the appropriate time.

    Justice Mohammed Umar admitted the flash drive and the certificate in evidence.

    Kehinde applied that the flash drive be played in the open court for everyone to see, a request the judge granted.

    The court played the video clip in the flash drive.

    The video showed President Tinubu speaking about the achievements of his administration and encouraged Brazilian businesses to invest in Nigeria because there is now a conducive business environment that is devoid of corruption.

    Shortly after the video was played, Kehinde noticed that Sowore, who stood in the dock, was using his mobile phone in the course of the court’s proceedings.

    The lawyer complained to the judge.

    Although Sowore attempted to deny using his phone, Justice Umar frowned at the attitude, saying it was wrong for a defendant to use a phone while the court was sitting.

    The judge directed an official of the court to retrieve the phone from the defendant and hand it over to his lawyer.

    Sowore refused to hand the phone to the lawyer, who moved close to him in the dock to retrieve the device.

    He told the court official: “Don’t touch my phone.”

    Sowore sought the court’s permission to hand the phone to his lawyer by himself, a request the court granted.

    The defendant thereafter walked off the dock and handed the phone to his lawyer, who was standing a few metres away.

    The judge directed Abubakar to place the phone on top of the table in front of the court.

    At the resumption of his testimony, Nosike said he made a screenshot of the attendant reactions of people to Sowore’s post on President Tinubu’s video.

    The witness said seeing the reactions to Sowore’s post, the DSS wrote official letters to the owners of the X platform and Facebook (Meta) through their email addresses.

    The witness said the letters were for the two social media platforms to take down Sowore’s post, “considering that the statement on that post was generating tension”.

    He said the DSS also sent an official letter to the defendant through his lawyers, who acknowledged receipt of the letter.

    Nosike also said the letter was meant to make Sowore retract his inciting post.

    The DSS official explained that even though the letter to him was a confidential document, Sowore posted a screenshot of the letter on his Facebook platform.

    The witness added: “As expected, the letter (which Sowore posted on Facebook) attracted reactions from Nigerians, both far and wide.

    “…The reactions to that letter were disparaging to the DSS and painted the service in a bad light.

    Kehinde tendered copies of the letters the witness referred to and his screenshots of the reactions to Sowore’s posts, which the court admitted in evidence.

    Nosike told the court that Sowore’s inciting posts complicated the work of security agencies like the DSS.

    He said: “We have officers and men who have sworn on oath to put themselves on the line for the security and stability of this country.

    “Such inciting posts that generate tension make our work more difficult, and we take such issues very seriously,” he said.

    At the conclusion of his evidence, the court directed Sowore’s lawyer to cross-examine the witness.

    But Abubakar begged the court for time to enable him study the witness’s testimony before he could cross-examine Nosike.

    Although Kehinde objected to the adjournment the defence sought, arguing that there was no basis for it, the judge agreed to adjourn the case but rejected Abubakar’s request for a date in February.

    Justice Umar adjourned till January 27 for cross-examination and continuation of the hearing.

    Abubakar had made efforts to frustrate the planned commencement of trial in the case.

    The lawyer claimed that the prosecution did not serve him the summary of witnesses’ testimonies and other relevant materials, as ordered by the court on the last adjourned date.

    He averred that in view of the alleged failure of the prosecution to comply with the court’s order, the defence had filed a motion for the striking out of the charge.

    But when the judge asked a court official to hand Abubakar a copy of the proof of service, which Kehinde had earlier submitted to the court, the defence lawyer glanced at the documents and claimed that they were forged.

    The lawyer also claimed that there was a disparity in the dates on the documents.

    But when his attention was drawn to the fact that the documents emanated from the court, he admitted service and apologised to both the prosecution and the court.

    It was at that point the judge ordered the prosecution to call its first witness.

  • 24 Nigerian varsities in 2026 global subject rankings

    24 Nigerian varsities in 2026 global subject rankings

    The Nigerian Universities Ranking Advisory Committee (NURAC) has hailed the nation’s university system for the remarkable improvement in the global rankings of some universities in this year’s Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings by Subject.

    The rankings were released on January 21.

    For the first time, 24 Nigerian universities made the global ranking list, making Nigeria the most represented country in Sub-Saharan Africa.

    The rankings cover 11 subject areas, including Arts and Humanities; Business and Economics; Computer Science; Education Studies; Engineering; Law; Life Sciences; Medical and Health; Physical Sciences; Psychology and Social Sciences.

    Reflecting on the newly released data, NURAC Chairman and former Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Emeritus Peter Okebukola, described the performance as a “testament to the resilience and burgeoning academic prowess of Nigeria”.

    The NURAC chairman noted that the nation’s institutions are increasingly breaking into elite global tiers across a diverse range of disciplines.

    READ ALSO: When hospitals kill

    In a statement yesterday in Abuja, Okebukola said: “This is coming at a time when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has given a huge boost to the welfare package of university staff and planned improvement in teaching, learning and research environment in our universities.”

    The NURAC chairman also stated that the feat was in building on the gains of previous administrations, noting the impact of Prof. Abubakar Adamu Rasheed as former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC).

    The statement explained that to be ranked in a specific subject for 2026, universities had to meet two main criteria – publication threshold: a minimum number of research papers published in that subject over the last five years (for instance, 500 for Engineering, 100 for Law); and staff threshold: a minimum percentage or absolute number of academic staff working in that specific field.

    Okebukola said: “The 2026 rankings highlight a significant shift in global recognition for Nigeria’s professional programmes. Most notably, the University of Ibadan and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, have broken into the top 400 worldwide for Law, both placing in the prestigious 301–400 band.

    “In the field of Medical and Health, the University of Ibadan maintains its position as a global leader in the 301–400 band, followed by the University of Lagos in the 401–500 bracket. Other medical powerhouses include Ahmadu Bello University, Bayero University Kano, the University of Benin, the University of Jos, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, all ranking within the 601–800 band globally, while institutions, like Babcock, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), and University of Ilorin, secured spots in the 801–1,000 range. LAUTECH; LASU; Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; University of Calabar; and University of Port Harcourt earned spots in the 1,000+ band.

    “Nigeria’s technological institutions have shown remarkable strength in Computer Science, led by Landmark University, in the 501–600 band, with Covenant University and the University of Ilorin following in the 601–800 group.

    “In the Physical Sciences, a strong cohort, led by the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Landmark University, and the University of Ilorin, all secured placements in the 601–800 band.

    “In the 801-1,000 band are Covenant University, Federal University of Technology, Akure; Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; and University of Calabar. In the 1,001-1,250 band are Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Bayero University, Kano; Federal University of Technology, Owerri; LAUTECH; and University of Lagos. Featuring in the 1,250+ band are Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta; Federal University, Oye-Ekiti; Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife; University of Benin; University of Ibadan; University of Nigeria, Nsukka; and University of Port Harcourt.”

    The NURAC chairman noted that Social Sciences continue to be a stronghold for the nation, with Covenant University and the University of Ibadan achieving a 501–600 global ranking.

    University of Lagos is placed in the 601-800 band, while in the 801-1,000 band are Landmark University; Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife; University of Ilorin; and University of Nigeria, Nsukka. In the 1000+ band are Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Delta State University, Abraka; Federal University, Oye-Ekiti; Lagos State University (LASU); Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; and University of Calabar.

    Also, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka distinguished itself as the sole Nigerian representative in Psychology, ranking in the 501–600 band.

    Okebukola emphasised that these rankings are the result of one of the world’s most demanding evaluative frameworks.

    The NURAC chairman said universities must meet strict publication thresholds, such as producing at least 500 papers over five years for STEM subjects or 100 for Law and Education.

    He added: “The THE Subject Rankings utilise 18 performance indicators grouped into five key pillars: Teaching (The Learning Environment): accounting for approximately 30 per cent of the score; Research Environment: evaluating productivity, income, and reputation (approx. 29 per cent); Research Quality: measuring citation impact and research excellence (approx. 30 per cent); International Outlook: assessing the ratio of international staff, students, and research (7.5 per cent); and Industry (Knowledge Transfer): highlighting industry income and patents (4 per cent).

    “The data speaks for itself,” he stated, adding: “Nigerian universities are no longer just participating; they are competing at a level that demands global respect. We are seeing a new era where Nigerian research in Law, Medicine, and the Sciences is influencing global thought leadership. However, we must not rest.

    “NURAC will continue to work with the National Universities Commission (NUC) to ensure this upward trajectory becomes a permanent feature of our educational landscape.” 

    NURAC is a strategic body dedicated to enhancing the global visibility and ranking performance of Nigerian universities through data-led advisory and ranking of Nigerian universities.

  • Fed Govt ready to tackle ecological challenges in Ibadan, says Akume

    Fed Govt ready to tackle ecological challenges in Ibadan, says Akume

    • Olubadan visits SGF for govt’s intervention

    The Federal Government has said it is ready to tackle the ecological challenges facing Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

    Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, gave the assurance yesterday when he hosted in his Abuja office the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, and a powerful delegation the monarch led from Oyo State.

    Welcoming the monarch and the other visitors, Akume urged notable Nigerians, including himself, who have benefited from the generosity and unique quality education offered by the premier university, the University of Ibadan (UI), to give back to the ancient city.

    “We will do everything we can to support the development of Ibadan, especially in the area of resolving the ecological problem that has long plagued the place and which has led to flooding.

    “As a king, you occupy a crucial position, and this is shown in the sacrifice you have made to personally visit this office to seek the support of the Federal Government to urgently address the ecological crisis in your domain

    READ ALSO: When hospitals kill

    “On a personal level, you have challenged some of us who benefitted from the generosity of the Ibadan people to go back and give back to a town that gave us so much as students of the University of Ibadan in those days. There is no doubt that the town contributed a lot to what we are today. Ibadan is a very peaceful and accommodating town. It is a microcosm of Nigeria.

    “I have known you since 1992, not just as a fine and extraordinary Nigerian but also as a distinguished senator and successful businessman who is determined to uplift his people. “We appreciate your love for humanity and we will continue to pray for you to give meaningful and impactful leadership to your people,” Akume said.

    Oba Ladoja had expressed deep concern over the recurring flooding and other environmental challenges confronting Ibadan while speaking with the SGF.

    The Olubadan noted that the situation had resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property and disruption of economic activities in several parts of the ancient city.

    Oba Ladoja appealed to the Federal Government to intervene urgently through relevant agencies to provide lasting solutions to the ecological problems.

    Oba Ladoja, who praised the Federal Government for tackling ecological challenges across the country, said Ibadan deserved special attention due to its size, population, and history.

    He assured the SGF of the continued support of the traditional institution in mobilising communities and ensuring the success of any government intervention aimed at restoring the city to safety and environmental stability

    Oba Lagoja said: “I have come here because we have an ecological problem in Ibadan. I know the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, can resolve it, going by his records as the one who made the Ogunpa channelisation project possible. Till today, no one is talking about flooding in Ogunpa again.

    “It should be noted that Ogunpa is not the only area that is affected by flooding. It is heightened because it affects the elite area. There are cases of flooding in areas where the masses live too. These places are more flooded than the Ogunpa area, but it is not as flooded as Ogunpa. This is why I have come to submit a letter identifying these areas and to persuade the Federal Government to come to our aid.”

    “I know the SGF as the engine room of the government. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and I have known him since 1992, and I know the role he can play in the development of Ibadan. My goal is to make Ibadan better than I met it.

    “I am here to appeal to him to consider us for the ecological fund, as he once did in the past. I know I can lean on him.

    “I have known the SGF since 1992, and he is truly a good man. He should have been an Ibadan man. We know the relationship between us from the Southwest and the Northcentral, particularly Benue State. He is a friend, a brother, and an accomplished person.”

    A statement by the SGF’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, said the Olubadan was accompanied by Senator AbdulFatai Buhari, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Alhaji Ademola Alli, Prince Ade Adekanbi, Nureni, among others.

  • Wale Tinubu bags UNILAG honorary doctorate

    Wale Tinubu bags UNILAG honorary doctorate

    Group Chief Executive, Oando PLC Jubril Adewale Tinubu, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

    This is in recognition of his outstanding contributions to enterprise, nation-building, and educational advancement.

    The conferment took place during the University’s 56th Convocation Ceremony, where Dr. Tinubu, nominated by the Vice-Chancellor Professor Folasade Ogunsola, delivered a speech on behalf of all Honorary Degree awardees, a role typically reserved for individuals whose professional journeys reflect both exceptional leadership and selfless public service.

    In his acceptance speech, Dr. Tinubu remarked, “I’m deeply honoured to speak to you on behalf of all the recipients of these honorary degrees at this 56th Convocation. We thank the Governing Council and the select Vice-Chancellors for this profound recognition and receive it not merely as a celebration of class achievement, but as a renewed call to service- a call that reflects the very purpose for which this great university exists.”

    READ ALSO: Critical success factors for Nigeria’s economy this year

    Emphasising the role the University of Lagos has played in shaping national development, Dr. Tinubu further commented, “UNILAG has never been content to produce credentials; it has produced nation-builders. It is therefore fitting that this institution once again places leadership at the centre of this convocation at a time when Nigeria itself is being called to renew. The reforms on the way seek to stabilise the economy, restore confidence, unlock global productivity, broaden opportunity, improve security, and improve the health and social welfare of this country. But reforms do not succeed by policy alone. They succeed when ideas shape action, and knowledge guides leadership.”

    His remarks touched on a broader theme increasingly relevant to developing and resource-constrained economies, underscoring that sustained economic and social progress is consistently underpinned by deliberate investment in human capital. Furthermore, Dr. Tinubu stressed that for education to realise its full impact, knowledge must extend beyond classrooms and laboratories to deliver practical solutions within communities, industries, and public institutions. According to him, the true value of scholarship lies in its ability to translate research into reform and intellectual capital into measurable social and economic impact.

    “This is where the university becomes indispensable. Citadels of learning are not spectators to national challenge; they are drivers of it. They generate the ideas, train the innovators, test the evidence, and nurture the ethical leadership that progress demands. Knowledge and leadership only fulfil their purpose when they are placed in the service of the common good.” He added.

    Addressing students and young Nigerians in attendance, he reflected on his journey from a young lawyer in Lagos with little to no significant assets to leading a global energy enterprise. He spoke of conviction, courage, and persistence as being defining pillars of sustainable success. He emphasised the need to see beyond the immediate problem and visualise the possibilities.

    He urged the students not to wait for perfect conditions before pursuing their ambitions, urging them instead to begin, adapt, and build in the face of uncertainty. He encouraged the students not to be dissuaded by those who would doubt or discourage them, but rather to focus on winning with integrity.

    In concluding his address, Dr. Tinubu spoke candidly about failure as an essential component of personal and professional growth, urging students to reframe how they perceive setbacks. Reflecting on his own experiences, he noted that the vast majority of his efforts did not succeed, but emphasised that the few successes he achieved were transformative.

    According to him, failure should not be feared but embraced as a learning process, noting that meaningful success is often built on repeated attempts, resilience, and the lessons drawn from setbacks. He encouraged students to pursue “true failure”, failure that teaches, strengthens character, and ultimately leads to significant achievement.

    This honorary doctorate adds to Dr. Tinubu’s distinguished career spanning law, energy, and philanthropy, and reflects the University of Lagos’ recognition of leaders whose impact extends beyond commercial success to long-term societal value.

  • Fayose raises dust over Makinde’s Villa visit

    Fayose raises dust over Makinde’s Villa visit

    What transpired at yesterday’s meeting between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde threw up controversy.

    It was the first one-on-one meeting between the President and the governor after the governor’s last month’s media chat in which he declared that he won’t support the President in 2027 and alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is behind the crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) because it is plotting a one-party state.

    He also accused the President of not keeping to agreement for his support in 2023 and accused Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike of telling the President how he would ‘hold down’ the PDP to paved the way for the President’s victory in 2027.

    After the meeting, Makinde told reporters that his relationship with President is ‘harmonious,’ adding the there was nothing he said that was contrary to a good relationship.

    But former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, in a statement, said the Aso Villa meeting was not a smooth sail for Makinde.

    READ ALSO: When hospitals kill

    Fayose said:   “He was told pointedly that he can’t come to the closet on political matters to eat his words, while saying another thing to the public.

    “Furthermore, the President told Governor Makinde that he was not expecting any support from him regarding 2027, and that he should also expect that he (President) will support his party.”

    Fayose added: “Here is the true story of what happened in the Villa when Governor Seyi Makinde visited the President today (yesterday).

    “First, Governor Seyi Makinde demonstrated that he lacked enough courage to face the President alone. He had to enlist the support of the Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

    “The President told him that if it was about official matters regarding Oyo State, he would listen to him.

    “Lastly, the President made it clear to Makinde that Wike is someone whose support and consistency he (President) can’t deny or wish away. Therefore, if Makinde has issues with Wike, that is between the two of them, I should be left out of it.

    “That’s why Makinde told the media that he’s comfortable in PDP. It’s because of the reality that there’s nothing for him in APC.

    “And after this meeting, shouldn’t Makinde tell the people of Oyo State if he has returned the N30billion he admitted to have received from the Federal Government as intervention fund for the January 2023 Ibadan (Bodija)  explosion?”

    After Makinde’s last month media chat, Fayose made the revelation of Federal Government’s N30b support for the Bodija explosion victims.

    Makinde, thereafter, for the first time, announced that Oyo State indeed received N30 billion to resettle the victims.

    After yesterday’s meeting at the Villa, Makinde who spoke to reporters, said: “The President is the President of Nigeria, not the President of APC, and we’re talking about governance here. So, I came to discuss with the President on some governance issues, basically”.

    On whether his visit signalled an improved relationship with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Makinde insisted that political differences had never translated into hostility or lack of cooperation.

    He said: “There’s nothing that I’ve said in the past that says we’re not enjoying a harmonious relationship. Politics is politics. We belong to different political parties, but Nigeria is a project that all Nigerians must be concerned about”.

    The governor listed insecurity, poverty alleviation and citizens’ welfare as issues that transcend party lines, noting that leaders at all levels must collaborate to improve the lives of Nigerians.

    “These are things that have no coloration of a party. As leaders, whether President or governor, those are things we have to work together on, consult with one another, and ensure that we can make life better for our people,” he added.

    On speculation that he might follow some opposition figures who have defected to the APC, Makinde dismissed the idea, reaffirming his loyalty to PDP.

    “No. I’m comfortable in the PDP,” he said, while acknowledging that certain national challenges require bipartisan cooperation.

    “There are times when you need everybody on board to take the best step forward in the interest of our nation,” he said.

  • EFCC indicts banks, Fintechs in N162b scams

    EFCC indicts banks, Fintechs in N162b scams

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has indicted a new generation bank, six Fintechs and some microfinance banks in major financial scams by allowing fraudsters to launder huge sums of money.

    Public Affairs Director of the Commission, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, dropped the hint at a news conference at the commission’s Abuja headquarters yesterday.

    According to him, the compromised institutions allegedly allowed cryptocurrency transactions worth N162 billion to pass through without due diligence within the 2024/2025 financial year.

    Uwujaren said that the financial institutions clearly compromised banking procedures and allowed the fraudsters to safely change their ill-gotten gains into digital assets and move them to safe destinations.

    He said: “A total sum of N18.1 billion was moved through the financial system without due diligence of customers by the banks.

    “It is worrisome that investigations by the commission showed that cryptocurrency transactions to the tune of N162 billion passed through a new generation bank without any due diligence.

    “Investigations showed that a single customer maintained 960 accounts in another new bank and all the accounts were used for fraudulent purposes.

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    “That is bad news but the good news is that following our intervention the commission has been able to recover N33.62 million, which has been returned to some of the victims.”

    He explained that the scams were in two categories, adding that the first was a syndicate of fraudsters that employed an airline discount scheme to lure their victims.

    The EFCC official said that they advertised a discount system for the purchase of flight tickets of a particular foreign carrier.

    He said: “The payment module is designed in such a way that the victims’ payment is actually made into the account of the airline.

    “After payment is made the passenger’s entire funds in his bank account are emptied. Investigations showed that more than 700 victims have been scammed so far, with a loss of N651 million,” he said.

    According to him, investigations show that the scheme is being masterminded by a foreign national; the commission has so far recovered and released N33 million to victims of the fraud.

    He said that another scheme involved a company – Fred and Farid Investment Limited (simply called FF investment) – lured Nigerians into a bogus investment arrangement.

    Uwujaren said: “More than 200,000 victims have been defrauded in this regard. A total sum of N18 billion was raked in through nine companies offering diverse investment packages.

    “The companies are: Credio Banco Limited; Deliberty Rock Limited; Liam Chumeks Global Service; Ngwuoke Daniels Technology; and Icons Autos and Import Merchant.

    “Others are: Newpace Technology Services Limited, Primepath Ways Ventures Limited, Kaka Synergy Network Limited and Sunlight Tech Hub Services Limited.”

    He said that foreign nationals were behind the schemes, while there are three Nigerian accomplices who have been arrested and charged to court.

    The EFCC director said that the masterminds were on the run and efforts are being made to bring them to book.

    “The Commission is calling on regulatory bodies to bring financial institutions to compulsory compliance with regulations in the areas of Know Your Customers (KYC), Customer Due Diligence (CDD), Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) and others.

    “Deposit Money Banks, Fintechs, Micro Finance Banks found to be aiding and abetting fraudsters should be suspended and referred to the EFCC for thorough investigation and possible prosecution.

    “Negligence and failure to monitor suspicious and structured transactions by banks should no longer be allowed.”

    Cautioning members of the public to be wary of these actors, he said that the EFCC would continue its works against money laundering by fraudulent actors.

    He urged financial institutions to firm up their operational dynamics and save the nation leakages and compromises bleeding the economy. 

  • Nigeria’s economic reforms working, says IMF

    Nigeria’s economic reforms working, says IMF

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commended Nigeria’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms.

    It said they are yielding positive results for the domestic economy and contributing to improved growth prospects across Sub-Saharan Africa.

    This is contained in the transcript of the January 2026 World Economic Outlook (WEO) Update released yesterday.

    Economic Counsellor and Director of Research, Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, said the Fund upgraded its outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa largely due to reforms taking effect in major regional economies, including Nigeria.

    He stated: “Sub-Saharan Africa is another region where we had some upgrades in our forecast.

    “For 2025, growth is now projected at 4.4 per cent, which is 0.2 percentage points higher than previously anticipated.

    “For 2026 and 2027, we expect growth of 4.6 per cent, a cumulative 0.3 percentage point upward revision from our October forecast.”

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    He explained that the upgrade was driven by three key factors: buoyant global commodity prices, macroeconomic stabilisation in key economies, and ongoing structural reforms in larger African markets.

    “One factor is stronger prices for commodities such as gold, copper and coffee, which benefit exporting countries in the region.

    “Another is the macroeconomic stabilisation efforts that are starting to pay off in countries like Ethiopia and Nigeria. The third is ongoing structural reforms in South Africa,” the IMF said.

    The Fund noted that the combination of favourable commodity price movements and a more predictable macroeconomic environment has strengthened growth prospects across the region.

    It also cited improved global financial conditions, including lower external borrowing costs, as supporting factors.

    “That said, risks remain elevated,” the IMF cautioned, pointing to anticipated cuts in international development assistance that could affect low-income and fragile economies, as well as the potential impact of a tightening in global financial conditions.

    In its October 2025 WEO, the IMF said the global economy had shown resilience despite earlier concerns over the impact of US tariffs.

    Growth in emerging markets was projected at 4.2 per cent in 2025, representing a cumulative upward revision of 0.6 percentage points from April.

    Nigeria’s growth outlook, the Fund said, has continued to improve due to supportive domestic factors, including higher oil production, improved investor confidence and a favourable fiscal stance expected in 2026.

    Since 2023, the Federal Government and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN have implemented wide-ranging reforms, including liberalising the foreign exchange market, ending central bank financing of fiscal deficits and removing fuel subsidies.

    Revenue mobilisation has been strengthened, while efforts to curb inflation have intensified.

    As a result, international reserves have risen, foreign exchange availability in the official market has improved, and Nigeria has returned to international capital markets.

    The country has also received recent upgrades from rating agencies, while a new private refinery has begun repositioning Nigeria higher up the energy value chain in a deregulated market.

    CBN policies, including currency reforms and the clearance of over $7 billion in FX backlog, have boosted investor confidence.

    Nigeria’s sovereign risk spread has since fallen to its lowest level since January 2020, reflecting improved market sentiment and renewed capital inflows.