The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • NAFDAC destroys over N55 billion worth of fake, banned, expired drugs in Ibadan

    NAFDAC destroys over N55 billion worth of fake, banned, expired drugs in Ibadan

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has destroyed over N55 billion worth of fake, banned, substandard, unwholesome, illicit drugs and pharmaceutical products in Ibadan.

    NAFDAC said it has been charged with the responsibility of ensuring that the health of every Nigerian is safeguarded, and as such, is committed to eliminating SFs medical products, illicit drugs, unwholesome foods, chemicals, medical devices, and other products, and will continue to find ways to rid the nation of all volatile products.

    Speaking in Ibadan during the destruction exercise, the Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, stated that the routine exercise, which is in line with the Agency’s mandate, and a strategy aimed at preventing re-introduction of Expired, Substandard and Falsified (SFs) Medical Devices, as well as other Spurious, Unsafe and Unwholesome NAFDAC Regulated Products from being reintroduced into circulation. 

    Adeyeye, who was represented by the Agency Deputy Director, Pharmaceutical Division (Investigation and Enforcement, Papa Lagos), Mrs Florence Ubah maintained that the products being destroyed during the exercise are made up of substandard and falsified medical products, unwholesome processed food products and food additives, unsafe cosmetics, counterfeits and other expired NAFDAC regulated products seized by the Agency from manufacturers, importers, and distributors. 

    She said, “It is important to state that, up for destruction today are damaged and Expired products voluntarily handed over by more than seventy (70) compliant companies, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and Trade Unions, to the Agency. This is commendable.

    “The estimated street value of the products being destroyed is worth N55,436,844,470 Fifty‑five billion, four hundred thirty‑six million, eight hundred forty‑four thousand, four hundred seventy naira only.”

    She thanked the Police, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and all stakeholders who have united in the fight against substandard and falsified medicines and other unwholesome regulated products.

    She, however, appealed to religious leaders, community leaders, health practitioners, journalists, and all Nigerians about the importance of educating their families and wards about the dangers of patronizing quacks and unauthorised medicine/food dealers. 

    She said everyone must actively participate in the fight, because it is a collective responsibility, adding that “together, we can protect the health and safety of all Nigerians.”

  • ADC vows to unseat APC, take over Delta in 2027

    ADC vows to unseat APC, take over Delta in 2027

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared that it possesses the political strength and organisational capacity to dislodge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State and take over Government House, Osadebe House, in the 2027 general elections.

    Leaders of the party said Delta State is long overdue for a change in political leadership.

    Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting held in Asaba on Tuesday, members of the ADC Transition Committee, Hon. Ozegbe Emeka Lawrence and Mr Omonigho Anthony, said the state’s political landscape had reached a point where a new party and a fresh leadership direction had become inevitable.

    They said the ADC is positioning itself as the platform to drive the desired change, stressing that the party is approaching the 2027 elections with a clear and determined objective of winning power in the state.

    According to them, the party is not entering the race quietly but is “coming strong” with the resolve to form the next government in Delta State.

    The party’s Secretary, Hon. Ozegbe Lawrence, also compared Delta State with Akwa Ibom State, noting that although both states were created on the same date, they have recorded markedly different development trajectories over the years.

    “Anyone who travels through Uyo, Ikot Ekpene, Eket, and other major towns in Akwa Ibom, and then compares them with Warri, Asaba, Agbor, and other commercial centres in Delta State, will agree that Akwa Ibom is far ahead,” he said.

    He questioned how long Deltans would continue to “sit in a cocoon and watch the fortunes of the state being diminished,” adding that Delta State has no shortage of human resources, political sophistication, or globally accomplished professionals.

    “From the Itsekiris, Ijaws, Urhobos, Isoko, Aniocha, and Ndokwa people, Delta State has produced world-class professionals, especially in finance and banking. With all these resources, this is where we still are after over two decades,” he lamented.

    The ADC leader said this reality had motivated what he described as “healthy-minded and conscientious politicians” to pursue a change in leadership, calling on all Deltans to embrace the ADC as a platform for renewal and relief.

    He announced that the party would commence revalidation of existing members and registration of new members from December 19, noting that the exercise had already begun in some areas.

    “The purpose of this meeting is to identify key coordinators and assign them responsibilities for an aggressive membership drive across the state,” he explained.

    Responding to questions on whether former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is a member of the ADC, he said the ADC is a coalition platform that includes the Labour Party.

    “If the Labour Party is part of the coalition that adopted ADC as a vehicle to redirect Nigerian politics, then by extension, Peter Obi is part of that movement in principle,” he stated.

    On the party’s chances against the ruling APC and PDP in Delta State, he described politics as dynamic, recalling how political alignments had shifted rapidly in recent months.

  • Kogi APC Renaissance Forum backs Tinubu’s anti-corruption drive

    Kogi APC Renaissance Forum backs Tinubu’s anti-corruption drive

    A leading political group in Kogi State, the Kogi APC Renaissance Forum, has expressed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s fight against corruption and corrupt practices in Nigeria.

    The forum, in a statement by its spokesperson, Adejo Emmanuel, said the current anti-corruption campaign under the Tinubu administration is not targeted solely at opposition figures, noting that members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are also being prosecuted.

    He cited the case of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello, who is currently facing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of diversion and misappropriation of state funds, among other cases involving party members.

    Emmanuel described corruption as a major governance challenge with far-reaching implications for democracy, electoral integrity, social cohesion, and economic growth, noting that it has consistently undermined Nigeria’s development despite previous anti-corruption efforts.

    He said the entrenched nature of corruption in Nigeria, particularly among politically exposed persons, requires a more drastic and robust approach.

    According to him, President Tinubu has demonstrated a strong commitment to tackling corruption by clearly separating partisan politics from governance and ensuring that offenders are held accountable through diligent prosecution.

    He added that appropriate punishment remains essential in addressing corruption and deterring future abuses.

    “The fight against corruption in Nigeria requires a paradigm shift and bolder actions to effectively address its deep-rooted and multifaceted nature,” Emmanuel said.

    The forum urged Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s renewed anti-corruption drive, warning that individuals who engage in corrupt practices should desist or face the full weight of the law.

  • JUST IN: Senate confirms Fani-Kayode, Omokri, ex-INEC boss, 61 others as ambassadors

    JUST IN: Senate confirms Fani-Kayode, Omokri, ex-INEC boss, 61 others as ambassadors

    The Senate on Thursday confirmed the nomination of 64 nominees for appointment as Career and Non-Career Ambassadors of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    The confirmation followed the consideration and adoption of the report of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, presented by its chairman, Senator Abubakar Sani Bello (Niger North).

    In his presentation, Senator Bello said the committee screened the nominees and found them suitable for appointment, noting that their nominations complied with relevant provisions of the law and extant guidelines governing diplomatic postings.

    According to the report, 34 of the nominees were confirmed as Career Ambassadors, while 30 others were cleared as Non-Career Ambassadors.

    Among those confirmed as Career Ambassadors are Amb. Nwaobiala Ezenwa Chukwuemeka (Abia), Betso Maimunah Ibrahim (Adamawa), Monica Okwuchukwu Enebechi (Anambra), Amb. Mohammed Mahmud Lele (Bauchi), Amb. Ahmed Mohammed Monguno (Borno), Amb. Adams Jane Bassey (Cross River), Amb. Sulu-Gambari Olatunji Ahmed (Kwara) and Amb. Ramat Mohammed Omobolanle (Lagos).

    Others include Amb. Adeyemi Adebayo Emmanuel (Ekiti), Amb. Okechukwu Kingsley Onaga (Enugu), Amb. Abdussalam Habu Zayyad (Kano), Amb. Shehu Ilu Barde (Katsina), Amb. Haidara Mohammed Idris (Kebbi), Amb. Bako Adamu Umar (Kogi), Amb. Shaga John Shamah (Nasarawa), Amb. Ibrahim Danlami (Niger), Reuben Abimbola Samuel (Ondo), Amb. Akande Wahab Adekola (Osun), Amb. Luther Ogbomode Ayo-Kalata (Rivers), Danladi Yakubu Nyaku (Taraba) and Bello Dogon-Daji Haliru (Sokoto).

    The Senate also confirmed prominent political figures and technocrats as Non-Career Ambassadors. They include former Senate Minority Leader, Senator Ita S.J. Enang (Akwa Ibom); former Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu; former INEC Chairman, Prof. Alhaji Mahmud Yakubu; former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (rtd); former Defence Minister, Lt. Gen. Abdulrahman Bello Dambazau (rtd); and former Ondo lawmaker, Senator Jimoh F. Ibrahim.

    Also confirmed were Chief Olufemi Fani-Kayode, Prof. Isaac F. Adewole, Mr. Reno Omokri, Chief Olufemi Pedro, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Mrs. Ajimobi Fatima Florence, Senator Grace Bent, Senator Prof. Nora Ladi Daduut, Dr. Yakubu N. Gambo, and several others drawn from across the six geopolitical zones.

    Of the last batch of 65 Ambassadors-designate transmitted to the Senate by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, only the nominee representing Yobe state, Adamu Garba Talba Nangree, has not been confirmed.

    Nangree was not at the screening organised by the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs last week.

    Senator Bello had remarked that he was in communication with the nominee and that he would be screened in his office at a later date.

    After the adoption of the report, Senate President Godswill Akpabio declared the nominees confirmed, urging them to serve Nigeria diligently and project the country’s image positively in their respective postings.

  • Coalition decries legislative interference in exam bodies affairs

    Coalition decries legislative interference in exam bodies affairs

    A coalition of civil society organisations has expressed concern over what it described as legislative interference by members of the National Assembly in the affairs of examination bodies.

    The organisations called for constructive, transparent and mutually respectful engagement between committees of the House of Representatives and Nigeria’s examination bodies, while stressing the need to preserve institutional independence within the education sector.

    Speaking on behalf of the coalition, the Convener of the Social Transparency and Youth Leadership Advancement Initiative, Okpanachi Jacob, said the CSOs were offering general observations and recommendations aimed at strengthening governance, accountability and public confidence in educational institutions.

    Jacob condemned what he described as a growing trend of undue pressure on examination bodies under the guise of legislative oversight.

    He said such actions, if left unchecked, could undermine the integrity, independence and effectiveness of institutions responsible for conducting national examinations.

    While admitting that the National Assembly has the constitutional mandate to carry out oversight functions, Jacob said this responsibility must be exercised with transparency, restraint and respect for due process.

    He said: “Interactions between lawmakers and examination bodies such as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, the West African Examinations Council, the National Examinations Council and the National Business and Technical Examinations Board should be guided by transparency, due process and mutual respect.”

    Jacob said the organisations believe that “maintaining clear institutional boundaries and professional standards is essential to sustaining the credibility of examination processes nationwide.”

    He clarified that the CSOs’ position was not based on any established wrongdoing or confirmed incidents, but rather on a broader commitment to promoting best practices in legislative oversight and public administration.

    The coalition also underscored the importance of “clear internal procedures within legislative committees, particularly on administrative and operational matters, as part of efforts to enhance efficiency and public trust.”

    In addition, the organisations encouraged “greater openness and clarity in governance processes, noting that transparency strengthens democratic institutions and fosters citizen confidence.”

    They further urged the leadership of the House of Representatives, under the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, to continue supporting ethical standards, internal cohesion and strict adherence to rules governing legislative operations.

    The coalition stressed that safeguarding the autonomy and credibility of Nigeria’s examination bodies is in the national interest and called for sustained collaboration among stakeholders in line with constitutional principles and democratic values.

  • Itele expresses joy as ‘Koleoso’ tops Nigeria’s 2025 most searched series

    Itele expresses joy as ‘Koleoso’ tops Nigeria’s 2025 most searched series

    Actor and producer Ibrahim Yekini, popularly known as Itele, has made history with his latest movie, Koleoso, as it becomes one of Nigeria’s most searched series in 2025, rivaling global hits like Netflix’s Wednesday and Squid Game.

    The Yoruba actor attributed the success to organic growth, a real audience, and the impact of the movie, thanking the cast, crew, and viewers for their support.

    He wrote, “The record is loud. The growth is real. Grateful for the journey, proud of the numbers. Organic growth. Real audience. Real impact. This is only the beginning. The views don’t lie — consistency, hard work, and God’s grace. We keep winning… louder, bigger, better.

    “From vision to views. Thank you to everyone watching, sharing, and supporting — big thanks to the cast and Crew, this win is ours. This is a win for us all — the Nollywood industry. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: my KOLEOSO family, you are the best. I am truly humbled and deeply grateful. Truly grateful to @shockng for the acknowledgement”.

  • First Lady urges elderly Nigerians to stay healthy, active as RHI supports veterans

    First Lady urges elderly Nigerians to stay healthy, active as RHI supports veterans

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has advised elderly Nigerians to embrace healthy and active lifestyles, urging them to find joy, purpose and fulfilment in old age through meaningful engagement, community service and regular physical activity.

    Mrs Tinubu gave the advice in Abuja on Tuesday while speaking at the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Elderly Support Scheme, organised to support vulnerable senior citizens, particularly military and police veterans, during the yuletide season.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady said “as we approach the festive season, it is crucial to emphasise the importance of prioritising our elderly citizens. 

    “They have walked difficult paths so that the younger generations may have smoother roads to travel. It is therefore our moral duty, and indeed our joy, to ensure that they live their twilight years in comfort, good health and dignity”, the First Lady said.

    She encouraged senior citizens to remain physically and mentally engaged, stressing that ageing gracefully goes beyond longevity. 

    According to her, staying active, nurturing the mind, and finding purpose in compassion and service to others are essential to living a fulfilled life in old age.

    “My advice to our senior citizens is to do all that is possible to find joy in old age. Let us find purpose in community, compassion and care. Those of us who are active should continue to engage in charitable work and, in so doing, find joy in helping others”, she said.

    The First Lady explained that the RHI Elderly Support Scheme has become a tradition since the inception of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, aimed at celebrating Nigerians whose years of service contributed to nation-building and collective progress.

    At the event, Senator Tinubu disclosed that the scheme is supporting 250 vulnerable veterans aged 65 years and above nationwide, with each beneficiary receiving ₦200,000, bringing the total financial intervention to about ₦1 billion. 

    In addition to the cash support, food items were distributed to beneficiaries, while free medical checks were conducted as part of the programme.

    She said the intervention was designed to ensure that elderly veterans live their later years with dignity, purpose and a strong sense of belonging.

    Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, the Director of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral Adepegba, commended the Renewed Hope Initiative for its targeted social investment programmes for defence and police veterans, describing them as a reflection of national appreciation for their selfless service.

    “On behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, I express our profound gratitude to Her Excellency for this thoughtful intervention. Your commitment to inclusive welfare, particularly for senior citizens and veterans, reinforces morale within the Services and reassures serving personnel that their sacrifices will always be remembered and valued”, he said.

    Rear Admiral Adepegba also praised the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), led by its President, Mrs Mernan Femi Oluyede, for its continued partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative in promoting people-centred welfare programmes.

    He added that the strength of a nation lies not only in its defence capabilities but also in its compassion for those who served it faithfully, noting that initiatives such as the RHI Elderly Support Scheme reinforce collective responsibility to uphold dignity and care for elderly veterans.

    The highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of ₦200,000 to beneficiaries by the First Lady, alongside the distribution of food items for the festive season.

  • Actress Adunni Ade clears air on age controversy

    Actress Adunni Ade clears air on age controversy

    Actress Adunni Ade has addressed rumors about her age, clarifying that she is not turning 50 and is not even 48.

    The confusion began after cinematographer Virtue sent her a direct message on Instagram offering to cover her supposed 50th birthday celebration for free next year. In the message, Virtue wrote, “Hello, mama. Good afternoon. My name is Virtue, I’m a Cinematographer, my brand handle is @virtueshotit. I would love to cover your 50th birthday event next year for free. Just lemme know when you’re prepping and the venue when you’re ready.”

    Adunni Ade responded with amusement at the attention her age is receiving, jokingly criticizing Nigerians for being overly concerned with how old she is. She also advised Virtue to focus on honing his craft, adding that she might consider him for her next party.

    “I don laugh, Taya! I know @virtueshotit means well, but I can’t stop laughing.

    Nigerians sey you people can see what you’ve caused bayi?? For the very, very, very, very, very last time! I am not 48 Abi 49 de ni. You people can be obsessed with age!!! Ah!!! , e jooooo ooooo! Don’t add to my sikini age oooo. E go still tey small. T for thanks …@virtueshotit, try posting more so I can see how good you are. Maybe at my next party I’ll contact you”, she wrote.

  • Institutional Liquidity Explained: Why Big-League Capital Sets the Tone for Crypto Trading

    Institutional Liquidity Explained: Why Big-League Capital Sets the Tone for Crypto Trading

    When traders talk about markets that “feel smooth,” they’re usually talking about one thing — liquidity. And in crypto, it’s the institutional crypto liquidity sitting behind the scenes that keeps order books from turning into a roller coaster. When deep capital pools step in, trades clear faster, price swings calm down, and the market behaves less like a wild frontier and more like a mature ecosystem. Without that backbone, even a decent-sized order can move the price like a gust of wind pushing a sailboat off course.

    Institutional players — from funds to specialized firms — act as stabilizers. They inject enough capital to absorb shocks, prevent unnecessary volatility, and help everyday traders avoid situations where an asset suddenly jumps just because someone placed a buy order slightly larger than usual. In short, institutional liquidity is the silent force that shapes price behavior long before a chart prints the next candle.

    How a Market Maker Shapes Market Stability

    In crypto, a market maker isn’t just another participant — it’s the engine that keeps the order book fueled. These firms commit to posting both buy and sell orders, creating a constant stream of quotes that help traders enter and exit positions without waiting for someone on the other side of the trade.

    Their presence is crucial because they reduce frictions that typically appear in thinner markets. When order books are healthy, volatility cools down, and execution becomes far more predictable. To illustrate why this matters, consider a few points:

    • They help prevent price jumps by filling orders quickly and consistently.
    • They narrow the gap between buy and sell prices, improving trade execution.
    • They increase turnover, making the market feel more “alive” and attractive for active traders.
    • They support stability during news events when retail participants hesitate.

    When institutional volumes flow in, the whole trading environment becomes more forgiving. Large trades no longer distort value, and smaller traders gain access to better pricing conditions.

    Why Spread and Slippage Shrink in Deep Markets

    Every trader has battled a wide spread at least once — that awkward moment when the best bid and ask look miles apart. In markets lacking robust capital flow, spreads widen because there simply isn’t enough activity. But when strong institutional presence enters the arena, spreads tighten like a rubber band returning to form.

    Deep capital also reduces slippage, the frustrating gap between expected and executed prices. In fast-moving conditions or markets with poor institutional activity, slippage bites into profits. With stronger liquidity foundations, order matching becomes smoother and more accurate, giving traders the confidence to scale their strategies without worrying that every trade will become a guessing game.

    Institutional activity is the driving force behind efficient crypto markets. When large players provide depth, execution improves, spreads narrow, and slippage becomes manageable. Traders benefit from markets where rules don’t change with every large order — and where stability makes long-term strategies viable.

  • JUST IN: Ahmed Musa retires from international football

    JUST IN: Ahmed Musa retires from international football

    Ahmed Musa, Nigeria’s most capped international footballer, has officially announced his retirement from the Super Eagles, bringing an end to an illustrious career that spanned almost 15 years.

    The Super Eagles captain announced in an emotional post shared on X (formerly Twitter), thanking Nigerians for their unwavering support throughout his journey.

    “I wore this badge with pride for 15 years. From a 17-year-old boy answering every call to becoming the most capped Super Eagle with 111 appearances. AFCON champion. Nigeria’s highest World Cup goalscorer. Captain. Servant. Believer.”

    “I gave everything. Thank you, Nigeria… my heart will always beat green.”

    Musa reflected on his humble beginnings, recalling how his national team journey began when he was simultaneously invited to the U-20, U-23, and senior Super Eagles teams.

    Ahmed Musa, Nigeria’s most capped international footballer, has officially announced his retirement from the Super Eagles, bringing an end to an illustrious career that spanned almost 15 years.

    The Super Eagles captain announced in an emotional post shared on X (formerly Twitter), thanking Nigerians for their unwavering support throughout his journey.

    “I wore this badge with pride for 15 years. From a 17-year-old boy answering every call to becoming the most capped Super Eagle with 111 appearances. AFCON champion. Nigeria’s highest World Cup goalscorer. Captain. Servant. Believer.”

    “I gave everything. Thank you, Nigeria… my heart will always beat green.”

    Musa reflected on his humble beginnings, recalling how his national team journey began when he was simultaneously invited to the U-20, U-23, and senior Super Eagles teams.