Author: The Nation

  • Emergencies and disasters: LASEMA boss tasks LG vice chairmen

    Emergencies and disasters: LASEMA boss tasks LG vice chairmen

    The Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Emergency Management Authority (LASEMA), Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, has asked the vice chairmen of Lagos councils to be up and doing in the area of emergency and disaster management

    He made this known during a stakeholders’ meeting on the revitalisation of Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMS) in Lagos on Monday.

    The objective of the meeting was to reorient the new leadership in the twenty Council areas and thirty-seven Council Development Areas on disaster management.

    Oke-Osanyintolu said under the law, the council vice-chairmen are expected to manage emergencies and disasters in the local government.

    He said the task of disaster management should not be left solely to the LASEMA; local councils should also be up to their responsibilities.

    He warned that leaving an emergency to linger in a community traumatises the residents.

    “We are holding this stakeholders’ meeting to fine-tune our operations and strengthen our collaboration to assure the good people of Lagos State that we are ready to manage emergencies at any time. We are prepared to effectively manage the golden hour between life and death.

    “I must emphasise that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has done a lot in terms of emergency and disaster management in Lagos State. We understand that emergencies and disasters happen at the local and community level, which is why we are repositioning the Local Emergency Management Committee to better serve the people of Lagos State.”

    While pledging LASEMA’s assistance to the local council on disaster and emergencies, he said the state was fully prepared to handle emergencies during and after the Yuletide season.

    Speaking on the Framework for the establishment and integration of the Local Government Emergency Management Committee (LEMC), Engineer Olakunle Akinsanya said Lagos State was prone to disasters because of its peculiar nature; therefore, the need for the LEMC.

    Responding on behalf of the Lagos Vice Chairmen, the Vice Chairman of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Area, Oluwatoyin Awoniyi-Akerele, expressed the readiness of vice chairmen to champion the Local Emergency Management Committee initiative.

    “We are going to work at the local level to manage disasters because we are very close to our people, the communities, market women and men, and everyone within the local government. We know them, and we understand their needs.

    “We are happy to be given this responsibility, and we are committed to carrying it out effectively. We will meet, develop a workable plan, and ensure successful implementation. We will not disappoint,” she said.

  • 2027: APC group opposes alleged plan to impose candidates for A’Ibom Assembly seats

    2027: APC group opposes alleged plan to impose candidates for A’Ibom Assembly seats

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) Media Network(APCMN) has opposed the alleged plan by some political leaders in the APC to impose candidates for the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly seats in the forthcoming election.

    The group was responding to a viral video in which the Speaker. Udeme Utong allegedly claimed that he would decide who gets the APC tickets for the 26 seats in the Assembly in 2027.

    The Director-General of the APCMN, Otuekong Iniobong John in a statement on Tuesday condemned the Speaker for allegedly making such claims, insisting that only a democratic process will produce the party’s candidates for the Assembly election.

    John in the statement said that if such undemocratic action is allowed to take place it would have foreclosed the chances of the foundation members and stakeholders of the party who have sacrificed so much for the APC in the state.

    The statement reads in parts: “The APC Media Network condemns the anti-democratic and provocative statement made in a video clip by the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, in which he claimed that the 26 APC House of Assembly tickets for the 2027 general election are “custodied” by him and that no aspirant can secure the party’s ticket without his endorsement.

    “The statement is deeply offensive to APC members across the state who have invested time, resources, and political capital in growing the party. It undermines the authority of the APC’s constitutional organs and creates the false impression that the party has been appropriated by personal ambition.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong has no constitutional or moral authority to determine APC candidacies or to “custody” party tickets. 

    “Such powers reside exclusively with the party, exercised through its duly constituted organs in accordance with its rules and the collective will of members. Any attempt to assume this role is a direct affront to internal democracy.

    “The Speaker must be reminded that the APC in Akwa Ibom State predates his defection. For years, committed party members laboured under difficult conditions to build, sustain, and defend the party. 

    “These loyal stakeholders deserve respect and recognition, not political marginalisation. Fairness and equity demand that those who kept the party alive are accorded a meaningful role and a fair opportunity to contest elective positions on the platform of the party”. 

    The APC group called on the Speaker to retract the statement in the video clip and offer an unreserved apology to the teeming APC members in the State who were rightly offended. 

    “A public recantation is necessary to ease tension and reaffirm respect for the party’s democratic values.

    “He should also take a cue from the exemplary conduct of Governor Umo Eno and the Senate President, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, who have consistently demonstrated topnotch maturity, humility, and an accommodating spirit in their leadership.

    “Their approach has fostered unity, inspired loyalty, and strengthened the APC across Akwa Ibom State. Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong would do well to emulate these qualities, placing the party and its collective interests above personal ambition, rather than projecting arrogance or attempting to intimidate party members.

    “This claim reflects a troubling disregard for internal party democracy and a fundamental misrepresentation of how political parties function in a constitutional system. APC tickets are neither personal assets nor instruments of patronage”

  • Govt Urged to adopt Mowe golf town model as project wins ‘Green sustainable housing’ Award

    Govt Urged to adopt Mowe golf town model as project wins ‘Green sustainable housing’ Award

    In a significant development for the nation’s infrastructure sector, Mowe Golf Town (MGT) has been recognised as a viable template for solving Nigeria’s housing crisis, clinching the award for Green Sustainable Housing Project of the Year at the 7th Africa Housing Awards in Abuja. 

    The recognition comes amid a period of rapid expansion for the project, which has recorded unprecedented market acceptance within its first year of operations.

    Industry watchers attribute this success to the project’s unique deployment of green technology and mortgage integration, signaling a shift in how affordable housing can be delivered profitably and sustainably.

     The award was presented by Minister of Urban and Rural Development of the Republic of Namibia, Honourable Sankwasa James Sankwasa, alongside the Convener of the Africa

    Housing Awards, Barr. Festus Adebayo. The presence of high-level government dignitaries underscored the importance of the Mowe Golf Town model as a blueprint for infrastructure development across the continent.

    Speaking at the event, Honourable Sankwasa noted that the project represents the future of African infrastructure. He urged governments to study such private-sector innovations that prioritize environmental preservation while delivering economic value. With a Green House Sustainability Score of over 50%, the project aligns with more than five United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making it a prime candidate for government agencies seeking sustainable partners. Barr. Labake Adetunmbi, the Chief Vision and Strategy Officer, stated that the project was designed to be scalable.

    “Our goal was to prove that you can bridge the housing deficit without compromising on quality or the environment,” Adetunmbi said. “By preserving 60% of the natural greenery and integrating ‘Art of Living’ concepts, we have created a model that people actually want to live in.” Experts have pointed to Mowe Golf Town’s construction methodology as a key solution to the high cost of building. The project utilizes advanced polystyrene technology and biodigester systems, which significantly lower construction costs and carbon footprints compared to traditional cement-heavy developments.

    Experts have pointed to Mowe Golf Town’s construction methodology as a key solution to the high cost of building. The project utilizes advanced polystyrene technology and biodigester systems, which significantly lower construction costs and carbon footprints compared to traditional cement-heavy developments.

    Abimbola Akinkugbe, the Chief Developer, highlighted the technical efficiency of this approach. “To solve a deficit of this magnitude, we cannot rely on old methods,” Akinkugbe stated. “We prioritized green technology, specifically polystyrene and biodigesters, because they allow for faster delivery and lower maintenance costs for residents. We are demonstrating that modern construction can be cost-effective and eco-friendly while providing a higher standard of living.” Barr. Adaku Chibuike-Ochiuwa, the Chief Legal Officer, noted that sound governance is critical for attracting investment into the housing sector.

    “Sustainability is not just about the environment; it is also about economic inclusion and structure,” Chibuike-Ochiuwa explained. “Through our SOW initiative, we are empowering a new demographic of real estate investors. We have created a secure, compliant ecosystem that ensures safety for investors while driving economic empowerment. This win validates that diverse, structured leadership is essential for sectoral growth.

    ” Solving the Affordability Crisis Beyond the physical structure, Mowe Golf Town has addressed the financial barrier to housing. The developers introduced mortgage payment structures through a strategic partnership with Haggai Bank, directly tackling the critical issue of access to credit for the average Nigerian.

    With commendations from the Africa ESG Conference and a showcase invitation from the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), Mowe Golf Town is positioning itself as a strategic partner for government agencies looking to execute sustainable, community-centric housing projects.

    With the Federal Government seeking sustainable ways to reduce the housing deficit, stakeholders at the event cited Mowe Golf Town as a standard for future developments.

  • Aso Savings, Union Homes enter liquidation as NDIC moves to pay depositors

    Aso Savings, Union Homes enter liquidation as NDIC moves to pay depositors

    The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has commenced the liquidation of Aso Savings and Loans Plc and Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc and the payment of insured deposits to their customers following the revocation of the banks’ licences by the Central Bank of Nigeria, it has emerged.

    The development was confirmed on Tuesday in a statement by the corporation’s Management, where it announced that it had begun the formal liquidation process and the verification and payment of depositors in line with its statutory mandate.

    The action followed the revocation of the licences of both institutions by the Central Bank of Nigeria on December 15, 2025, after which the NDIC was appointed as liquidator pursuant to Section 12 subsection 2 of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act 2020.

    The NDIC Management said it had activated all necessary procedures to protect depositors and ensure an orderly resolution of the failed institutions.

    “In line with Section 55, subsections 1 and 2 of the NDIC Act 2023, the Corporation has commenced the liquidation process for Aso Savings and Loans Plc and Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc,” it said.

    The corporation disclosed that verification and payment of insured deposits to customers of the closed banks had already begun.

    It stated that depositors would be paid up to the maximum insured amount of ₦2 million per depositor, using the Bank Verification Number (BVN) as a unique identifier to locate depositors’ alternate bank accounts into which payments would be credited automatically.

    The NDIC explained that depositors with balances above the insured limit would first receive the insured portion of their funds, while the remaining balances would be paid later as liquidation dividends.

    These subsequent payments, it said, would depend on the realisation of the banks’ assets and the recovery of outstanding debts.

    “Depositors with balances in excess of ₦2,000,000 will be paid the initial insured amount, while their outstanding balances will be settled as liquidation dividends upon the realisation of the assets and recovery of debts owed to the failed banks,” the Management noted.

    To facilitate the settlement of uninsured deposits, the corporation disclosed that it would immediately commence the sale of the banks’ assets and intensify efforts to recover outstanding loans.

    “To this end, the Corporation will commence the sale of the banks’ assets and continue recovery of outstanding loans to expedite payment of uninsured sums,” the statement added.

    The NDIC advised depositors to submit their claims either online or through physical verification.

    For online submission, depositors were directed to complete the digital claims form on the NDIC claims portal, while those opting for physical verification were asked to visit the nearest branch of the closed banks between Tuesday, December 16, 2025, and Thursday, December 30, 2025, where NDIC officials would be available to attend to them.

    For verification and payment, depositors are required to present proof of account ownership, a verifiable means of identification such as a driver’s licence, permanent voter’s card, or national identity card, as well as details of their alternate bank account and Bank Verification Number.

    The corporation also advised depositors to activate transaction alerts on their alternate accounts to receive payment notifications, noting that those without active alerts could confirm payments using their banks’ USSD codes or by visiting their bank branches.

    Creditors of the defunct banks were equally advised to submit their claims within the same verification window, either online or by visiting the nearest branch of the closed institutions.

    The NDIC stressed that in accordance with the law, liquidation dividends to creditors would only commence after all depositors had been fully paid.

    On the status of bank staff and shareholders, the corporation stated that payment of staff deposits would be made after depositors had been fully settled, using proceeds from the sale of the banks’ assets.

    Shareholders, it added, would only be paid after depositors and creditors had been fully settled, and subject to further realisation of assets and recovery of outstanding debts.

    The NDIC also issued a warning to debtors of the defunct banks, urging them to regularise their obligations.

    Debtors were advised to visit the corporation’s Asset Management Department to ensure full settlement of their outstanding loans.

    Reassuring the wider banking public, the NDIC said the action should not be interpreted as a sign of distress in the financial system.

    The corporation reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of depositors’ funds in all licensed banks and urged customers to continue their banking activities without fear, while stressing that banks whose licences have not been revoked remain safe and sound.

    For further enquiries, depositors and other stakeholders were advised to contact the Director of the Claims Resolution Department at the NDIC Lagos Office through the corporation’s official channels.

  • Lawrence Okolie headlines historic ‘Chaos in the Ring II’ Lagos showdown

    Lawrence Okolie headlines historic ‘Chaos in the Ring II’ Lagos showdown

    Two-weight world champion and WBC number one heavyweight contender, Lawrence Okolie (22-1, 16 KOs), will make his historic professional debut on African soil as he headlines ‘Chaos in the Ring II’ against Ghanaian powerhouse Ebenezer Tetteh (23-3, 20 KOs).

    The blockbuster event is set for Sunday, December 21, 2025, at the Detty December Festival Grounds in Lagos.

    Promoted by former world champion Amir Khan and Dr. Ezekiel Adamu (CEO of Balmoral Group) in partnership with Queensberry Promotions, the night forms a centrepiece of the “Detty December” cultural festival.

    For the 33-year-old Okolie, who was born in London to Nigerian parents, the fight represents more than just a ranking defence. 

    Having already captured world titles at cruiserweight and bridgerweight, he is now focused on becoming a three-weight world champion in 2026.

    “Fighting in Lagos means everything to me. This is where my family is from. This is the dream,” Okolie said. “On 21 December, under the Detty December lights, I’m putting on a show you won’t forget.”

    His opponent, Ebenezer Tetteh, is a durable veteran known for his knockout power, having recently gone seven gritty rounds with British star Dillian Whyte.

    In the co-main event, 2016 Olympic gold medallist Tony Yoka (14-3, 11 KOs) brings his elite pedigree to Nigeria. 

    The French heavyweight aims to climb back into world title contention against German veteran Patrick “Big Patrick” Korte (23-5-1, 19 KOs) in a ten-round showdown.

    Promoter Amir Khan expressed the magnitude of the card: “I’ve fought all over the world, but this Lagos card is special. Okolie headlining Africa for the first time, Tony Yoka bringing heavyweight fire… we’re giving fans a night they’ll never forget.”

    The event features a blend of international prospects and fierce local rivalries:

    Harley Benn, son of boxing legend Nigel Benn, faces Ghanaian warrior Elvis Ahorgah.

    Unbeaten Prospects: Shiloh Defreitas (6-0) puts his record on the line against the rugged Taye Fajimi (10-0).

    Local Rivalries: Two all-Nigerian six-round clashes see Basit Adebayo face Sikiru Shogbesan, and Isaac Chukwudi battle the heavy-handed Raheem Animashaun.

    Female Talent: Emerging stars Nene Joy Ojo and Sandra Darkwah Boateng will also feature in a four-round contest.

    ‘Chaos in the Ring II’ will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN, marking a landmark moment for African boxing as it joins a star-studded December calendar featuring global icons like Gunna and Busta Rhymes.

  • JUST IN: Senate okays Oke, Are, Dalhatu for appointment as ambassadors

    JUST IN: Senate okays Oke, Are, Dalhatu for appointment as ambassadors

    The Senate on Tuesday approved the nomination of three ambassadorial nominees—Ayodele Oke, Colonel Kayode Are (rtd), and Amin Dalhatu for appointment as envoys.

    The resolution of the Senate followed its consideration of the report of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs presented by its chairman, Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, during plenary.

    Oke, a former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and ex-Nigerian Ambassador to the Commonwealth Secretariat in London; Are, a former Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS); and Dalhatu, Nigeria’s immediate past Ambassador to South Korea, were unanimously endorsed by lawmakers when the Senate President Godswill Akpabio put their nomination to a voice vote.

    In his comment, Akpabio urged the ambassadors-designate to bring to bear their wealth of experience in their new roles.

  • NOUN awards degrees to six inmates at Kuje Custodial Centre

    NOUN awards degrees to six inmates at Kuje Custodial Centre

    The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has conferred certificates on six inmates of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, Abuja.

    The graduands, who studied various programmes while in custody, received degrees in different disciplines, including two Master’s degrees in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, as well as four Bachelor’s degrees in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, Political Science, Criminology, and Security Studies.

    According to the Public Relations Officer of the Kuje Custodial Centre, Samson Duza, the ceremony highlighted NOUN’s commitment to accessible education and the Nigerian Correctional Service’s focus on inmate rehabilitation.

    The Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, who was represented by the Deputy Controller-General, Amos Kupan, commended the inmates for their resilience and determination.

    “Education transforms lives, builds capacity, and proves that incarceration is not a dead end but a pivot to growth and reintegration. We will continue to foster skills for re-entry and a better future,” he said.

    Also speaking, the Controller of Corrections, FCT Command, Christopher Peter Jen, congratulated the graduands and urged them to be good ambassadors of the custodial centre.

    He advised them to use their certificates to improve their lives after discharge, stressing that they should not allow anyone to look down on them, and encouraged them to pursue further education.

    The Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Mrs Modupe Adesina, represented by the Director of the NOUN Special Study Centre, Mr Francis Enobore, appreciated the Nigerian Correctional Service for 13 years of partnership and development.

    Adesina described the programme as a pathway of hope, assuring that both institutions would continue to empower inmates to reintegrate into society with dignity.

    “NOUN’s open model empowers even the marginalised. These graduates have shown that learning heals, equips, and dignifies. We will expand such partnerships,” she said.

    Speaking on behalf of the graduands, Mr Abbas Kyari expressed gratitude to the Controller-General of Corrections, officers and men of the Kuje custodial centre, as well as the NOUN management, for the opportunity to acquire education while in custody.

    He said the learning experience restored his sense of purpose, adding, “I am grateful that our years here were not wasted. What we have achieved will be useful to us for the rest of our lives.”

  • Supreme Court, NJC mourn ex-CJN Tanko Muhammad’s death

    Supreme Court, NJC mourn ex-CJN Tanko Muhammad’s death

    The management of the Supreme Court and leadership of the National Judicial Council (NJC) have commiserated with the family of a former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, who was said to have died in the early hours of Tuesday.

    Both organisations’ positions are contained in two separate statements issued on Tuesday afternoon.

    In a statement he issued, the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Supreme Court, Dr. Festus Akande said, “The Supreme Court of Nigeria announces with profound sorrow the passing of Hon. Justice Ibrahim Muhammad Tanko, the 17th Chief Justice of Nigeria, who died in the early hours of today, Tuesday, 16th December, 2025, at the age of 72 years.

    “Justice Tanko’s tenure as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 2019 to 2022 was marked by an unwavering commitment to the rule of law, judicial independence, and the fair administration of justice.

    “His keen intellect and compassionate demeanour earned him the respect of judges, lawyers, and citizens alike, as his contributions have indelibly shaped Nigeria’s legal landscape.

    “The court pays tribute to his remarkable contributions, which include: strengthening the appellate system and procedural efficiency, advocating for the professional development of judges and judicial staff, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability within the judiciary.

    “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the judiciary, and the Nigerian public. We pray that his legacy of integrity, humility, and dedication continues to inspire all who serve the nation’s justice system.

    May his soul rest in peace,” Akande said.

    NJC’s Secretary, Ahmed Saleh, in a statement on Tuesday, said that, “The Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman, National Judicial Council, Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON, commiserates with the family of the retired Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, who passed on today at 71 years.

    “His Lordship (Justice Kekere-Ekun) expressed deep condolences to the family and the people of Bauchi State over the death of the former Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman of the National Judicial Council.

    “Although death is a painful reality, we are nevertheless consoled by the fact that His Lordship left a legacy of hard work, honesty, and dedication to work.

    “The late Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, GCON, who would have been 72 years by 31st December 2025, was a devout Muslim, a respected Jurist, who was courageous with exemplified highest ideals of the Bench.

    “He served as the Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria from 2006 to 2022 and as the Chief Justice of Nigeria from 2019 until his resignation in June 2022 on ground of ill-health.

    “Hon Justice Tanko began his career in 1982, after he was called to the bar in 1981, the same year he graduated from the Nigerian Law School. In 1989, he was appointed as Chief Magistrate of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, a position he held until 1991, when he became a Judge at the Bauchi State Sharia Court of Appeal.

    “He served in that capacity for two years before he was appointed to the Bench of the Court of Appeal in 1993.

    “On behalf of the entire Judiciary, The Honourable, The Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman, National Judicial Council, Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, GCON, condole with His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the people and Government of Bauchi State, the immediate family of the late former CJN, the Nigerian Judiciary and the entire Legal Community,

    “I pray Almighty Allah to grant His Lordship and the rest of his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. Amen!”

  • 12 most used cryptocurrencies in 2025

    12 most used cryptocurrencies in 2025

    Cryptocurrency usage in 2025 has evolved far beyond speculation. Digital assets are now embedded in payments, decentralized finance, smart contracts, cross-border transactions, and digital ownership. As regulation becomes clearer and institutional participation increases, only cryptocurrencies with strong real-world utility and active ecosystems continue to dominate global usage.

    This guide highlights the 12 most used cryptocurrencies in 2025, based on adoption, network activity, liquidity, and practical application. These assets form the backbone of today’s blockchain economy.

    1. Bitcoin (BTC)

    Primary use: Store of value, peer-to-peer payments

    Bitcoin remains the most dominant cryptocurrency in the world. Often described as digital gold, it is widely used as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty. Its fixed supply, decentralized structure, and strong security model continue to make it the most trusted crypto asset in 2025.

    2. Ethereum (ETH)

    Primary use: Smart contracts, decentralized applications, DeFi, NFTs

    Ethereum is the leading smart contract blockchain and the foundation of the decentralized web. In 2025, it powers thousands of decentralized applications, NFT platforms, and DeFi protocols, making it one of the most actively used cryptocurrencies globally.

    3. Tether (USDT)

    Primary use: Stable transactions, crypto trading, transfers

    Tether is the most widely used stablecoin in the crypto market. Pegged to the U.S. dollar, USDT provides price stability and liquidity, making it essential for trading, remittances, and moving funds between digital assets and fiat currencies.

    4. BNB (BNB)

    Primary use: Exchange fees, dApps, staking

    BNB is the native token of the Binance ecosystem and BNB Chain. It is commonly used to reduce trading fees on the Binance exchange and to power decentralized applications, staking, and on-chain services within the Binance network.

    5. Solana (SOL)

    Primary use: High-speed transactions, dApps, NFTs

    Solana is known for its fast transaction speeds and low costs. In 2025, it supports a rapidly expanding ecosystem of decentralized applications, NFT marketplaces, blockchain games, and meme coins, driving high daily transaction volumes.

    6. XRP (XRP)

    Primary use: Cross-border payments, institutional transfers

    XRP is designed for fast and low-cost international payments. The XRP Ledger is used by financial institutions and payment providers to facilitate efficient cross-border money transfers, making XRP a key asset in institutional crypto adoption.

    7. USD Coin (USDC)

    Primary use: Regulated stable transactions, DeFi

    USD Coin is a fully fiat-backed stablecoin pegged to the U.S. dollar. Known for its transparency and regulatory compliance, USDC is widely used for decentralized finance, institutional settlements, and digital payments.

    8. Cardano (ADA)

    Primary use: Smart contracts, sustainable blockchain solutions

    Cardano is a proof-of-stake blockchain developed using a research-driven approach. Its focus on scalability, sustainability, and security has positioned ADA as a widely used cryptocurrency for long-term blockchain development.

    9. Dogecoin (DOGE)

    Primary use: Payments, tipping, micro-transactions

    Dogecoin remains the most recognizable meme coin in the crypto space. Supported by a strong community and high social engagement, DOGE is commonly used for tipping, online payments, and small-value transactions.

    10. Tron (TRX)

    Primary use: Stablecoin transfers, digital content

    Tron is a high-throughput blockchain focused on digital entertainment and content distribution. In 2025, it plays a significant role in stablecoin transactions and peer-to-peer transfers, particularly in high-remittance regions.

    11. Chainlink (LINK)

    Primary use: Smart contract data, decentralised oracles

    Chainlink is a decentralised oracle network that connects smart contracts to real-world data. It enables price feeds, automation, and data-driven applications across multiple blockchains, making it a critical infrastructure in the crypto ecosystem.

    12. Polkadot (DOT)

    Primary use: Blockchain interoperability

    Polkadot is a multi-chain network designed to allow different blockchains to communicate and share data securely. By addressing fragmentation, it supports a more connected and scalable blockchain ecosystem.

    The most used cryptocurrencies in 2025 are defined by utility, adoption, and long-term relevance. From Bitcoin’s role as a store of value to Ethereum’s dominance in smart contracts and the stability offered by USDT and USDC, these digital assets continue to shape the future of global finance and blockchain technology.

  • Oborevwori signs into law Delta’s N1.729trn 2026 budget

    Oborevwori signs into law Delta’s N1.729trn 2026 budget

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Tuesday signed the Delta State’s 2026 Appropriation bill of N1. 729trn tagged, “Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda,” alongside three other key bills passed by the State House of Assembly into law.

    The assent sets the stage for accelerated development, enhanced security, and strengthened social welfare across the state.

    The other three bills passed were the Delta State Social Investment Programme Law, the Delta State Colleges of Education Law, 2025, and the Delta State Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Cultism (Amendment) Law, 2025.

    Speaking during the signing ceremony, Governor Oborevwori described the 2026 budget as “not just a budget of figures, but a budget of vision, action, and expected deliverables for the next twelve months,” assuring Deltans that the state would hit the ground running in 2026 to accelerate development across key sectors.

    The N1,729,881,208,779 budget represents an increase of over 70 per cent compared to the 2025 budget.

    The Governor said the estimate, though ambitious, is achievable, with 70 per cent dedicated to capital expenditure and 30 per cent to recurrent spending, thus underscoring his administration’s commitment to infrastructure-led growth and sustainable development.

    He noted that in 2025, the state intensified investments in infrastructure, security, fiscal discipline, and revenue growth, leading to improved internally- generated revenue without imposing additional burdens on citizens.

    According to him, the gains reflect the success of the administration’s reforms and its determination to continue strengthening the state’s economy.

    Oborevwori explained that the three accompanying laws were designed to further reinforce social welfare, education, and security in Delta State.

    He said the Social Investment Programme Law provides a legal framework for equitable, grassroots-focused access to resources and services, particularly for vulnerable and underserved populations, without discrimination.

    He added that the Colleges of Education Law, 2025, standardises the operations of state-owned colleges, allowing them to award Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCEs) and education degrees concurrently, and expands their capacity to train more qualified teachers.

    The Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Cultism (Amendment) Law, he said, strengthens the legal framework to combat terrorism, cultism, and related crimes, aligning state laws with contemporary security realities.

    The Governor commended the Speaker, leadership, and members of the Delta State House of Assembly, as well as the Clerk and staff of the House, for the timely passage of the budget and other bills, highlighting the strong synergy between the executive and the legislature.

    Read Also: Oborevwori condoles with Diri, family, Bayelsans over passing of Ewhrudjakpo

    He also thanked stakeholders, cabinet members, civil servants, and citizens for their contributions, while wishing all Deltans a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

    Earlier, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor said the passage of the four bills followed rigorous legislative engagements, wide consultations, and thorough scrutiny in line with the Assembly’s constitutional mandate.

    Guwor explained that the Social Investment Programme Law institutionalises social intervention initiatives to protect vulnerable citizens and promote inclusive growth and social justice, while the Colleges of Education Law, 2025, establishes a uniform framework to enhance the quality and efficiency of teacher education and reduce disparities among state-owned colleges.

    He added that the Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Cultism (Amendment) Law addresses emerging security challenges and corrects gaps in the principal legislation, including the omission of a clear definition of cultism.

    On the Appropriation Law, 2026, the Speaker said the House scrutinised the budget sector by sector in line with the MORE Agenda before passing the N1.729 trillion estimate.

    According to him, the assent to the bills further underscores the cordial and productive relationship between the legislature and the executive, driven by a shared vision for a peaceful, secure and prosperous Delta State, and will significantly advance good governance and socio-economic development in the state.