Author: The Nation

  • FG pledges to restore trust in public communication

    FG pledges to restore trust in public communication

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, says government will continue to restore trust in public communication through honest, sincere, patriotic and purposeful communication strategy.

    Idris stated this in an interview on the sideline of the 2025 Nigeria Excellence Award in Public Service (NEAPS) and Dinner on Sunday night in Abuja.

    The event was organised by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) in collaboration with The Best Strategic Media.

    Idris, who was also an awardee, said the reward for hardworking was more; adding that the award would motivate him, the Ministry, Departments and Agencies to do more in the service to the country.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NEAPS award to Idris makes it the second award he clinched within five days, the first being the Business  Day Award for Excellence in Public Service on Dec.3.

    “This is a country that all of us love; recognising our contribution to nation building is heartwarming and will make us to do even more for our country, people democracy itself.

    “We are supposed to shape communication for development, for the good and progress of our country. This is the mandate given to me by President BolaTinubu.

    “We thank him for the opportunity given to us to serve our fatherland. We will continue to restore trust in public communication. This is what I think is the major challenge.

    “We want to also look at ways and means of also fighting fake news, disinformation and misinformation, because, these are two very dangerous issues that are living with us.

    “They can make or mar a society/community. Therefore we will continue to work hard to ensure that Nigerians are informed properly in accordance with what the rules and regulations are,” Idris said.

    He further explained that he is not alone in the success story, adding that it is indeed all the heads of agencies, directors and staff of the ministry that joined hands to ensure the repositioning of the information and communication sector.

    According to him, that is what they are doing for the country.

    “I feel happy in the trajectory we have taken and I do hope that by the time we get this done, we will have made a significant contribution in that direction.

    “This means the Renewed Hope Agenda of Tinubu is succeeding. So if people are happy in what you do, of course it is expected that they will recognise you. We feel happy that this has been done.

    “Nigerians should remain united. Nigeria should be that country that has the prosperity that Mr President has promised when he took office.

    “What we are saying is that we don’t have any other place to go. This is our country. We should be proud to be here and must join hands in ensuring that we move it forward.

    “This is what the president is always asking for. Let’s come together. You have to believe in your country. The country is greater than everyone.

    “And all of us will have to come together to ensure that we do what is best for our country, because this is the only place we have,” Idris reiterated

    NAN reports that personalities that also got awards include governors of Bauch, Zamfara, Kogi, Enugu, and Ministers of Aviation, Women Affairs and many others.(NAN)

  • Adamawa govt imposes curfew as Lamurde boils again

    Adamawa govt imposes curfew as Lamurde boils again

    The Adamawa state government has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Lamurde Local Government Area following a communal clash feared to have caused much damage.

    The government said on Monday that the curfew followed a renewed communal clash which resurfaced Sunday evening in the area, but offered no details as to human or material losses 

    “Already, security agencies have been directed to restore law and order in the local government area with immediate effect,” the government said in a statement issued by Deputy Governor Kaletapwa Farauta’s Press Secretary, Hussaini Hammangabdo.

    “Government is appealing for calm in the area,” Hammangabdo added.

    On its own, the state command of the Nigeria Police said it has deployed personnel “Following the declaration of 24-hour curfew by the state government over the violent attacks and breach of peace within some communities in Lamurde LGA.”

    In a statement signed by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Nguroje, the command added, “The command in collaboration with sister security agencies, while respecting the rights of the citizens equally enjoy them to avoid all forms of action capable of threatening the security in the area.”

    The police also gave no detail regarding the communal clash but some residents of the area have volunteered that two ethnic groups in the Lamurde LGA rose against each other in the fresh round of violence that the particular groups have become known for.

    It was gathered that a number of communities were affected, with exception of the Lamurde town itself which was protected by local youths when people from one of the warring groups attempted an attack.

  • Ladoja urges FG to reopen all land borders

    Ladoja urges FG to reopen all land borders

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has appealed to the Federal Government to open all land borders in Nigeria to ease movement of persons and goods across the sub-region as provided under the ECOWAS trade liberation scheme.

    Ladoja made the appeal when the outgoing Controller of Customs, Oyo/Osun Area Command, Compt. Gambo Aliyu, paid him a farewell visit at his Bodija residence in Ibadan on Sunday.

    He recalled that the federal government, during the tenure of late President Muhammadu Buhari, had closed land borders in 2019, but later reopened some major ones, including Seme and Idiroko, in Lagos and Ogun States respectively.

    The royal father said that following the removal of fuel subsidy by the federal government on May 29, 2023, there was no longer reason for the continued closure of the remaining land borders.

    While commending the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service for its anti-smuggling activities, the Olubadan urged the service to rise up to the challenge of entry of illegal arms and ammunition into the country.

    Ladoja said that the country’s borders, seaports and airports needed to be policed properly to curb entry of illegal arms and ammunition, drugs, substandard products and other prohibited items.

    He commended Aliyu, the 37th Customs Area Controller, Oyo/Osun Area Command, for his diligence and dedication to duty during his short stay in the command and wished him the best in his future endeavours.

    Earlier, Aliyu had thanked the Olubadan and the traditional institution in the state for their support to him and the command during his tenure and pleaded that same should be extended to his successor.

    (NAN)

  • A MISSING LINK IN UNIVERSAL HEALTH COVERAGE: POLICY ACTIONS TO INTEGRATE INFORMAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS INTO NIGERIA’S HEALTH SYSTEM

    A MISSING LINK IN UNIVERSAL HEALTH COVERAGE: POLICY ACTIONS TO INTEGRATE INFORMAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS INTO NIGERIA’S HEALTH SYSTEM

    About the author: Iheomimichineke Mystery Mimi Ojiakor is a PhD candidate in the Department of Health Administration and Management, and an academic researcher with the Health Policy Research Group, both at the University of Nigeria. She is part of the Community-Led Responsive and Effective Urban Health Systems (CHORUS) Nigeria Project 1, focused on strengthening health system linkages between formal and informal healthcare providers in urban slums. Some of her published works include:

    Iheomimichineke Ojiakor, Obinna Onwujekwe, Joseph Paul Hicks, Health Policy and Planning, 2025; czaf068, https://doi.org/10.1093/heapol/czaf068

    Iheomimichineke Ojiakor, Enyi Etiaba & Obinna Onwujekwe, Discover Public Health, 2025; https://doi.org/10.1186/s12982-025-00951-6

    Chinelo Obi; Iheomimichineke Ojiakor; Enyi Etiaba; Obinna Onwujekwe, International Journal of Public Health, 2024; 10.3389/ijph.2024.1606810

    Chibueze Anosike, Iheomimichineke Mystery Ojiakor, Enyi Ifeoma Etiaba, Nkolika Pamela Uguru, Charles C. Ezenduka, Obinna Onwujekwe, Vaccine, 2025; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127853

    Chukwudi Nwokolo, Obinna Onwujekwe, Martin McKee, Iheomimichineke Ojiakor, Blake Angell & Dina Balabanova, Health Economics Review, 2025; https://doi.org/10.1186/s13561-025-00654-3

  • Request for transfer: Court orders Nnamdi Kanu to serve motion on FG, prison service

    Request for transfer: Court orders Nnamdi Kanu to serve motion on FG, prison service

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered convicted leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu to serve on the Federal Government and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) his motion seeking to be transferred from the Sokoto prison.

    In a ruling on Monday, Justice James Omotosho declined to grant the motion ex-parte Kanu filed, but instead, ordered him to serve the Fed Govt and the NCoS to enable them responded accordingly.

    Kanu, in the motion ex-parte prayed for “an order compelling the complainant (Federal Government)!and/or the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to forthwith transfer him from the Sokoto Correctional Facility to a custodial facility within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court.”

    Alternately, he sought an order transferring him to the court’s “immediate environs, such as the Suleja or the Keffi Custodial Centre, for the purpose of enabling the applicant (Kanu) to effectively prosecute his constitutionally guaranteed right of appeal.”

    At the commencement of proceedings on Monday, Kanu’s lawyer, Demdoo Asan from the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACON) moved the ex-parte motion.

    Justice Omotosho then drew Asan’s attention of to the first prayer in the motion ex-parte, which is for an order “compelling” the Federal Government and NCoS to transfer the convict to a correctional facility that is close to the jurisdiction of the court.

    The judge asked Asan if he would like to insist on the first prayer particularly as it relates to the word: “compel” used in the ex-parte motion.

    Justice Omotosho equally asked Asan if the prosecution and the NCoS, in whose custody Kanu’s is currently being kept, ought to be served with the motion or not.

    The judge added, “You are from Legal Aid Council counsel? Do you think it is by ex-parte motion this application ought to be granted, having it in mind that judgment was delivered when the two parties were present?

    “Also, among the respondents to obey the order is the correctional service and you think it is through ex-parte motion that the court can make the order for his transfer?

    “Don’t you think this application should have come by motion on notice,” the judge asked.

    Responding, Asan admitted that the respondents (prosecution and the NCoS) ought to be put on notice to enable them respond.

    Asan added, “My lord, the respondents have the right to be heard. Usually, the court can make an order that they should be put on notice.” 

    The lawyer said he agree with the judge’s observation that the respondents should be heard and that the motion ex-parte could not be taken now.

    Asan said, “They (the respondents) should be heard. We will be applying that the complainant and other parties involved should be put on notice.

    Ruling, Justice Omotosho struck out the first prayer in Kanu’s motion ex-parte, as requested by his lawyer.

    The judge then ordered that the prosecution and the NCoS be served with the motion for them to respond in the interest of justice. 

    He faulted the notice of appeal which Kanu filed on November 10 before the court’s November 20 judgment, which convicted him and sentenced him to life imprisonment.

    Justice Omotosho said based on the judgment delivered by his court on November 20, there is no notice of appeal before his court.

    He then adjourned till January 27, 2026 to enable the Kanu serve the prosecution and NCoS as ordered by the court and for the motion to be heard.

  • Optiva Capital Partners urges Africans to invest smart, secure future

    Optiva Capital Partners urges Africans to invest smart, secure future

    As 2025 gradually winds down and a new year beckons, Optiva Capital Partners has called on entrepreneurs, professionals, and High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs) across Nigeria and the continent to plan intentionally for global access, wealth diversification, and family security in 2026 and beyond.

    Speaking on the company’s outlook for 2026, at an interactive session with select Business Editors, Franklin Nechi, Chairman of Optiva Capital Partners, emphasised that true financial freedom in the modern world goes beyond local investments. 

    “Mobility is the new wealth,” he said. “For entrepreneurs and families, access to markets, education, healthcare, and security is the real measure of success. The coming year presents an opportunity for Africans to reposition globally, and Optiva is here to guide that journey with trusted, structured solutions.”

    Optiva Capital Partners advised individuals and families to embrace global access planning – a long-term wealth and lifestyle strategy that integrates investment immigration, offshore asset diversification, and international education and healthcare options.

    According to Nechi, for entrepreneurs and professionals, obtaining second citizenship or permanent residency through investment is no longer a luxury. 

    Optiva Capital Partners, he said, continues to lead in helping clients access reputable programs across Europe, the Caribbean, North America, and the Middle East – granting visa-free travel to over 140 countries, business mobility, and the ability to relocate or expand globally.

    This means clients can attend global business meetings and trade fairs without visa delays; access international banking and investment platforms seamlessly; give their children and families a secure alternative home in times of crisis.

    The Chairman of Optiva Capital Partners emphasised the need for wealth diversification in an era of volatile local currencies and fluctuating markets. 

    Through its global partnerships, Optiva provides access to real estate investments, structured funds, and asset-backed opportunities in stable economies like the UAE, Portugal, Greece, the UK, USA and the Caribbean.

     “In 2026, investors must think beyond borders,” noted Franklin Nechi. “Our role is to help clients preserve and grow wealth across multiple jurisdictions – so that their money works for them, even when they sleep.”

    Education and health remain two of the most powerful drivers of generational security. Optiva Capital he said, advises families to leverage second citizenship to gain access to world-class education for their children at domestic tuition rates in top universities; quality healthcare systems that offer affordable, timely, and life-saving services.

    As part of its broader mission, Optiva Capital Partners has expanded beyond investment immigration into holistic wealth retention services.

     The firm offers an integrated suite of financial solutions that help clients protect, grow, and optimize their assets across jurisdictions.

    Nechi explained that the firm’s philosophy is rooted in four pillars – protection, growth, optimization, and enhancement. 

    “Protecting wealth means safeguarding it against currency fluctuations and market instability. Growth ensures that your money continues to earn returns through diversified investments. 

    “Optimization means putting your money to work efficiently, so it keeps generating value even when you retire, while enhancement ensures that clients’ investments are diversified and well distributed across asset classes, currencies, and jurisdictions.”

    For African investors, Optiva’s message is clear: diversify. “Do not keep all your wealth in one market or currency,” Nechi advises. “If your expenses are in foreign currencies – tuition, healthcare, travel – then part of your income should also be earned in those currencies. That’s how you build long-term financial resilience.”

    He added: “2026 is not a year to be reactive – it’s a year to be strategic,” concluded Nechi. “The families and entrepreneurs who act now will own tomorrow.”

  • Swiftway Evolux Review 2025: Does It Really Work?

    Swiftway Evolux Review 2025: Does It Really Work?

    Swiftway Evolux represents a fresh trading system crafted by a team of crypto specialists to revolutionize the whole trading workflow. The platform leverages cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence and sophisticated algorithms, for comprehensive market analysis, reliable trade alerts and insights, and smarter decision-making support. Founders state it’s intuitive and suitable for even beginners. This Swiftway Evolux review offers an in-depth examination to verify if it delivers what it claims. So, without any delay, let’s jump right into the review.

    Official Swiftway Evolux Website!

    Swiftway Evolux Pros and Cons

    Pros of Swiftway Evolux

    • Simple account setup process
    • Use of the latest technologies
    • Real-time market analysis
    • Accurate signals and insights
    • Additional tools and resources
    • 24/7 customer support
    • Safe banking methods
    • Different asset options
    • Quick payouts
    • A demo or practice mode
    • Customizable settings
    • Strict safety measures
    • Collaboration with regulated brokers
    • Mobile compatible
    • Consistent profits
    • No additional fees or commissions

    Cons of Swiftway Evolux

    • Right now, the Swiftway Evolux online trading system is not accessible in some places, like Israel, Iran, and Cyprus, where local laws are against crypto-related activities

    What is the Swiftway Evolux Platform?

    Swiftway Evolux is a trading platform built by integrating state-of-the-art artificial intelligence and algorithms to simplify cryptocurrency trading. It continuously monitors the market 24/7, gathering important data such as price movements, and provides accurate alerts and insights. The developers claim that Swiftway Evolux operates without human bias, ensuring objective results.

    Get Started with Swiftway Evolux!

    The platform includes features like an easy-to-navigate interface, practice accounts, various tools and resources, round-the-clock customer service, robust security protocols, secure payment options, customizable settings, multi-currency compatibility, and more.

    Is Swiftway Evolux a Trustworthy Platform?

    As Swiftway Evolux is relatively new in the trading arena, questions about its legitimacy naturally arise. According to information from reliable sources, the system is considered both secure and dependable.

    Registration is straightforward and quick, requiring minimal details. The platform links users with licensed brokers and utilizes sophisticated technologies such as artificial intelligence and algorithms for thorough market analysis.

    It offers traders additional resources and tools, ensures safe banking options to facilitate smooth transactions, enforces rigorous security measures, and provides 24/7 customer support. Traders’ feedback so far has been positive, indicating that Swiftway Evolux appears to be a legitimate trading platform.

    Swiftway Evolux Signup Process

    To begin real-time trading on the Swiftway Evolux platform, there are some important steps that you have to complete. These steps are listed below:

    ●     Step 1- Register an Account

    First, submit the registration form with basic information, such as your name, email address, contact number, and place of residence. Then, validate the confirmation email to open your trading account.

    ●     Step 2- Deposit Funds

    The next important step is to deposit an amount in your crypto trading account using debit/credit cards, e-wallets, or local bank transfers. The minimum deposit required is €250. The system will use this amount to purchase profitable assets.

    ●     Step 3- Start Trading

    Now, you can proceed to personalize Swiftway Evolux according to your trading goals, risk tolerance levels, and market conditions. It is based on your preferences that the platform performs live trading.

    Sign Up on Swiftway Evolux Now!

    Swiftway Evolux Security Protocols

    Swiftway Evolux employs comprehensive security measures and protocols to protect traders’ and investors’ data, investments, and transactions. The platform incorporates advanced encryption technology, multi-factor authentication, routine audits, and cold storage solutions to prevent data leaks and security threats. Consequently, users can trade in real-time with complete peace of mind.

    Swiftway Evolux Portfolio Diversification and Risk Management

    The Swiftway Evolux trading platform features multicurrency support so that traders and investors can easily explore different markets, invest in several profitable assets, and diversify their portfolios. Spreading investments helps maintain a balance and tackle risks, like sudden price drops, with ease. This approach also helps boost profits. Swiftway Evolux supports valuable assets, such as cryptocurrencies, traditional stocks, forex pairs, shares, futures, commodities, bonds, derivatives, etc.

    Swiftway Evolux Supported Regions

    Currently, the Swiftway Evolux online trading platform is available in nearly all countries worldwide where cryptocurrency trading and associated activities are allowed. Below is a list of select prominent countries:

    • Thailand
    • Slovenia
    • Vietnam
    • Sweden
    • United Kingdom
    • South Africa
    • Japan
    • Canada
    • Brazil
    • Switzerland
    • Hong Kong
    • Finland
    • Norway
    • United States
    • Spain
    • Poland
    • Belgium
    • Australia
    • Singapore
    • Mexico
    • Taiwan
    • Slovakia
    • Netherlands
    • Malaysia
    • Chile
    • Germany
    • Denmark

    Swiftway Evolux Platform User Feedback

    Reviews from trusted sources provide valuable insights into the Swiftway Evolux platform’s performance and user satisfaction. Traders have mentioned that the platform is easy to navigate, delivers precise alerts and insights, offers 24/7 customer support, ensures safety and security, and connects with regulated brokers. The platform has received a rating of 4.8 out of 5, highlighting that Swiftway Evolux is both reliable and effective.

    Experience Swiftway Evolux Trading!

    Swiftway Evolux Professional Analysis

    Cryptocurrency specialists have evaluated the Swiftway Evolux platform’s functionality and produced a comprehensive assessment. Their report states that the system proves secure and dependable, provides extra tools and resources, features simple navigation, delivers round-the-clock customer support, and offers more benefits. Professionals assigned it a 4.6/5 rating. Nevertheless, they caution about market volatility and advocate responsible trading practices for a safer experience.

    Swiftway Evolux Pricing, Deposits, and Returns

    The Swiftway Evolux trading platform remains cost-effective compared to competing crypto trading systems available. It enables live trading through a modest starting deposit of €250. No additional charges or commissions apply for services including account setup, maintenance, deposits, or withdrawals. Developers claim substantial profits are achievable even from minimal investments, which aligns with user testimonials. Starting modestly and scaling up investments gradually proves smart for maximizing gains.

    Final Verdict on Swiftway Evolux

    From all things discussed so far, the Swiftway Evolux online trading system seems legitimate and worth it. The platform uses advanced technologies, like artificial intelligence and algorithms for in-depth market analysis and signal generation. It connects traders with regulated brokers in the industry. So far, the responses from early users have been positive, and they have rated the platform a 4.8/5.

    As per the Swiftway Evolux reviews, the platform offers several unique features, such as an intuitive interface with a solid dashboard, a demo or practice account with virtual funds, customization options, additional tools and resources, 24/7 customer support, strict safety measures and protocols, secure banking methods, etc.

    Swiftway Evolux is an affordable trading platform that allows live trading with a small deposit of €250 and zero hidden fees. It is easily accessible on mobile phones and other devices with a stable internet connection and a web browser.

    Don’t Miss Out — Join Swiftway Evolux Today!

    Swiftway Evolux FAQs

    Does Swiftway Evolux require downloads or installations?
    Yes. Swiftway Evolux operates without downloads or installations as a web-based platform needing just a stable internet connection and web browser.​

    What fees does Swiftway Evolux apply to traders?
    This trading platform stays affordable with no hidden fees or commissions.​

    Is Swiftway Evolux appropriate for novice traders?
    Swiftway Evolux suits beginners thanks to user-friendly elements like an intuitive interface, demo account, 24/7 customer support, and more.​

    Which payment methods does Swiftway Evolux offer?
    The platform accommodates secure banking options including debit/credit cards, local wire transfers, and e-wallets for seamless transactions.​

    Can users personalize the Swiftway Evolux interface?
    Yes. Swiftway Evolux allows customization enabling traders to modify strategies, parameters, and settings based on trading needs, risk tolerance, market conditions, and similar factors.

  • Kwara North demands governorship slot in 2027

    Kwara North demands governorship slot in 2027

    Ahead of the 2027 general election, leaders and indigenes of Kwara north based in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja have appealed the governorship seat be ceded to the zone.

    They claimed their demand was borne out of the need for fairness and justice, as nobody from the zone has governed the state since return to democracy in 1999 while other zones have had the slot.

    The Chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT) of the Baatonu Unity and Development Association Abuja (BUDIA), Alhaji Yusuf Tunku made the appeal in Abuja during the end-of-year dinner of women wing of the association. 

    The Vice Chairman, Kwara State Council of Traditional Rulers Council, the Etsu Pategi. Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Bologi II and all the traditional rulers in Kwara North recently during a one-day stakeholders meeting in Lafiagi, Patigi Local Government pushed for the zone to produce the next governor of thr North Central state in 2027.

    Stressing the need for inclusivity, Tunku argued that the cedeing of the highest political office of the state would not only correct the imbalance in power sharing, it would give the Kwara north senatorial district a sense of belonging, fairness and justice.

    He said consultations had already begun as the traditional rulers from the zone met their counterparts in Kwara south last week to garner support for the Zone’s governorship bid.

    “In fairness, it should be. Since the inception of the state, we’ve never had that chance at all. Almost all other parts of the state have had their own share of the governorship. We’ve never had it .So, it is not going to be out of place. If, for fairness and justice, this time around, that is, 2027, the power shift goes to the north.”

    Disclosing that the zone has begun a statewide campaign for the agitation, Tunku said; “We have started. I think as recent as last week, even our traditional rulers, they moved to consult with the southern Kwara people. They met their traditional rulers last week to plead with them to let this time around. The governorship came to Kwara north. And I think there is this understanding.”

    A leading member of the association, Prof. Umar Semo emphasised the need for the zone to be given a chance to govern the state in 2027.

    “But politics does not reward silence; nobody will hand it to you unless you show interest. We have come out clearly to say we want the governorship slot. 

    “Our Emirs have met with traditional rulers in Kwara South to communicate our desire. We want a fair hearing, and we believe this is the right time,” he said.

    Semo called for broader understanding across the state, noting that the zone has remained patient despite decades of political exclusion. 

    “In the spirit of unity, we have always supported others. Kwara Central has had its turn. Kwara South has had its turn. If Kwara North is supported this time, we will be very happy,” he added.

    For the president of BUDIA, women wing Aisha Ahmed Oyoru said the association was at the forefront of promoting the culture and socio-economic identity of the people, especially in their clamour for power shift in 2027.

  • Salah in Liverpool training but not expected to travel for Inter game

    Salah in Liverpool training but not expected to travel for Inter game

    Mohamed Salah is not expected to be in Liverpool’s squad to face Inter Milan, despite taking part in training on Monday.

    In an explosive interview at the weekend the 33-year-old forward said he felt like he had been “thrown under the bus” by the Reds amid the side’s struggles this season, and that his relationship with head coach Arne Slot had broken down.

    Salah was an unused substitute in Saturday’s 3-3 draw at Leeds United – the third straight game the Egypt international has started on the bench.

    Monday’s training took place before Liverpool face Inter Milan in the Champions League on Tuesday, and Salah was involved while the session was open to the media.

    Liverpool will fly out to Italy later this afternoon and Slot is scheduled to hold a news conference at about 18:45 GMT this evening.

    Salah’s comments came after the Reds let a 2-0 lead slip in the draw at Leeds, with the Egypt international an unused substitute for the game.

    The previous two games had seen Salah come on as a substitute in a 1-1 home draw at Sunderland, while he was left on the bench in a 2-0 win at West Ham.

    His last start was in a 4-1 defeat by PSV Eindhoven at Anfield in a Champions League group game and his last goal came in a 2-0 win at Aston Villa on Saturday, 1 November.

    Salah has scored five goals in 18 appearances in the Premier League and Champions League this season.

    Overall, he has 250 goals in 420 Liverpool appearances and his 29 top-flight goals in the 2024-25 campaign helped the Anfield side win the Premier League title last season.

    Salah, who joined Liverpool from Roma in 2017, signed a new two-year contract with the club in April.

    BBC Sport pundit and former England striker Wayne Rooney believes Salah is “destroying his legacy” at the club and that Slot should not involve the player against Inter or in a home match against Brighton on Saturday.

    The game against the Seagulls comes before Salah is scheduled to join up with Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations.

    “In my head, I’m going to enjoy that game because I don’t know what is going to happen now,” said Salah.

    “I will be in Anfield to say goodbye to the fans and go to Africa Cup of Nations. I don’t know what is going to happen when I am there.”

    BBC

  • Bazara Tech unveils AI platform manovar to transform corporate banking

    Bazara Tech unveils AI platform manovar to transform corporate banking

    In a major development for Africa’s financial technology sector, homegrown innovator Bazara Tech Inc. has officially launched Manovar, an artificial intelligence-powered corporate banking and platform poised to redefine how banks serve business clients across the continent.

    The announcement, made in Lagos this week, introduces what industry experts are calling a “game-changing” solution designed to tackle the persistent inefficiencies plaguing corporate banking. Manovar promises to eliminate fragmented systems and manual processes through intelligent automation, deep integration, and real-time financial analytics.

    The platform is already operational, having been successfully deployed by two major commercial banks with pan-African operations, marking a swift transition from concept to live implementation. Developed through intensive collaboration with banking partners, Manovar consolidates treasury management, approvals, liquidity tracking, and fraud detection into a single, intelligent dashboard.

    Tunji Odumuboni, Co-founder and Chief Product & Technology Officer at Bazara Tech, stated that the platform represents a fundamental shift. “We are moving beyond basic digitization to intelligent orchestration. Manovar isn’t just a tool; it’s a central nervous system for corporate banking, enabling real-time decision-making and seamless service delivery,” Odumuboni explained.

    The launch addresses a critical pain point for many African financial institutions: the high cost and operational drag caused by using multiple, disconnected applications. Manovar offers a unified alternative with features including configurable workflow engines, enterprise-grade self-service portals, and AI-driven risk alerts.

    Lanre Akomolafe, Head of Products, highlighted the collaborative ethos behind the project. “True innovation in financial services cannot happen in a silo. Manovar was built hand-in-hand with the institutions that understand the challenges best. This is a victory for partnership over isolation,” he said.

    Founder and CEO Boye Ademola framed the launch as a milestone in Africa’s fintech journey. “Our mission has always been to accelerate financial innovation that matters. With Manovar, we are empowering banks to serve their corporate clients with unprecedented speed, security, and insight. We are inviting every forward-looking institution to join us in this new phase,” Ademola said.

    With the platform now on the market, Bazara Tech has announced an ambitious expansion strategy, targeting growth not only within Africa but also in the United Kingdom and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) regions. The move signals the company’s confidence in its ability to compete and provide value in sophisticated international financial markets.

    Industry analysts suggest that the introduction of platforms like Manovar is critical for enhancing Africa’s competitiveness, enabling local banks to offer corporate services that meet global standards while navigating the continent’s unique operational landscapes.