The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • SMECore emerges first ERP, digital platform for Africa’s MSMEs

    SMECore emerges first ERP, digital platform for Africa’s MSMEs

    A digital company, SMECore, has emerged as the first ERP and All-in-One digital platform for Africa’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to place them on the fast lane of growth and development.

    The platform took center stage at the 2025 MSME Conference held from November 16–18, convened by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and partners under the theme ‘GROW Nigerian: Building a Future of Innovation, Resilience and Prosperity’.

    The conference brought together top voices across entrepreneurship, technology, finance, and public policy spaces to underscore one message: “Nigerian businesses must embrace digitalization, build strong internal structures, and prepare for scalable, sustainable growth.”

    Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Senator John Enoh, stressed the strategic position and importance of MSMEs in Nigeria’s economic growth, development, and stability.

    According to Enoh, MSMEs represent about 95 per cent of businesses in Nigeria, and also contribute over 85 per cent of employment generation.

    He said, “No nation can rise above the courage and creativity of its entrepreneurs.”

    Delivering his keynote address, Tony Elumelu strongly emphasized why it is imperative to ensure the sustainability of the MSME ecosystem while acknowledging and applauding the resilience, doggedness, and tenacity of Nigerian entrepreneurs.

    He pointed out that many promising businesses in Nigeria fail to excel due to gaps in systems, support structures, and enabling environments.

    “We must learn to build to last,” he said. He also called for stronger business ecosystems that would support businesses to flourish and move beyond survival stages into long-term success and glory.

    A major highlight of the event was the presentation of SMECore, a purpose-built ERP and digital operating system tailored to African businesses.

    During the demonstration, Amu Ogbeide, Group CEO of Sapphital, described SMECore as “the missing link for building structure and driving digital inclusion across African businesses.”

    Ogbeide also explained that the platform provides a powerful, secure, and affordable system that enhances transparency, compliance, and structured growth.

  • 10 WAYS THE MEGAPAD WILL INSTANTLY UPGRADE YOUR DAILY ROUTINE

    10 WAYS THE MEGAPAD WILL INSTANTLY UPGRADE YOUR DAILY ROUTINE

    Some devices were only made to make life easier, but the Megapad goes a step further. It’s built for the people who never stop moving forward, the thinkers, creators, and doers who juggle meetings, deadlines, and ideas all in one day. Whether you are editing a presentation, attending an online class, sketching a design, or catching up on your favorite series, the Megapad is built to effectively cater to your needs.

    It keeps you sharp when work gets demanding and creative when inspiration strikes. Its smart design, fast performance, and immersive display make every task feel effortless. The Megapad doesn’t just fit into your lifestyle; it enhances it. Sleek, powerful, and beautifully simple, it’s ready to match your pace and keep up with everything that matters to you.

    Here are ten features that make the Megapad your all-in-one dream device.

    1. All-Day Battery Life

    Power through work, study, or entertainment without constantly reaching for a charger. The Megapad keeps up from morning to night on one single charge.

    2. Lightweight Build

     It fits easily into your bag, making it perfect for classes, commutes, or coffee shop work sessions—light in weight but strong in performance.

    3. Simple Note-Taking

     Jot ideas, sketch concepts, or type notes with ease. The Megapad makes staying organized feel effortless.

    4. Split Screen for Multitasking

     Do more at once. Attend a virtual meeting while reviewing documents, or stream a lecture while taking notes side by side.

    5. Crystal-Clear Display

     Every word, image, and video pops with clarity. Ideal for reading, editing, or watching content in stunning detail.

    6. Fast Processor

     No lag, no delay. Multitasking feels natural as the Megapad handles everything smoothly. with the MedaiTek G100 processor.

    7. Ample Storage Space

     Keep your world in one place: projects, assignments, and entertainment without running out of space with 256GB available space.

    8. Smart Connectivity

     Instantly share files, connect to devices, or project your screen. It’s built to keep you linked and in sync.

    9. Perfect for Online Meetings and Classes

     A strong camera and clear audio, help you show up confidently in every session, whether you are pitching or presenting.

    10. Budget-Friendly Power

     You get premium performance without breaking the bank. That’s the beauty of smart design built for real people.

    The Megapad is not just a gadget. It’s a lifestyle tool that brings work, learning, and creativity together in one place. Wherever you are, whatever you do, it keeps you ready for what’s next.

    For more updates, follow TECNO on Facebook, Instagram, and X(Twitter) 

  • 51-year-old man allegedly murders cousin over alleged abuse

    51-year-old man allegedly murders cousin over alleged abuse

    A tragic incident on Monday sent shockwaves across Nsukka, Enugu State, after a 51-year-old neighbourhood security operative, Emeka Emmanuel Nwangwu, allegedly murdered his 19-year-old maternal cousin, Loveth Uloma Nwangwu, inside a pharmacy at Total Roundabout, Nsukka.

    The Enugu State Police Command confirmed the incident on Tuesday, describing it as a “gruesome and heartbreaking crime.”

    According to the police, operatives of the Nsukka Urban Division, supported by the Neighbourhood Watch Group, arrested the suspect at the scene shortly after he violently attacked the teenager.

    Witnesses said panic erupted when Nwangwu stormed Bekay Pharmacy, where the victim was receiving treatment, and began assaulting her.

    He reportedly smashed her head on the floor multiple times, leading to her collapse, and she was later confirmed dead at the hospital.

    Before the police clarified the circumstances, social media rumours linked the incident to a love triangle involving the suspect, the deceased, and a senior police officer.

    Investigations, however, revealed that the victim was his cousin and that the killing was tied to a history of alleged sexual abuse.

    The Command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, stated that the deceased had reported a case of defilement, sexual abuse, abduction, and threats to life against Nwangwu at the Umabor Police Division on November 28.

    She told police she had been living with the suspect since 2019, at age 13, following his wife’s death, during which she was allegedly subjected to years of abuse and isolated from her family.

    Attempts to flee to her family home in Enugu-Ezike, Igbo-Eze North LGA, were reportedly thwarted by the suspect, who allegedly used a firearm to force her back to his residence in Ibeku-Opi, Nsukka LGA. After another escape, she reported to the police and was issued a medical examination form.

    When questioned at the station, Nwangwu allegedly confessed and pleaded for forgiveness, prompting the family to initially consider a non-prosecutorial approach for personal and cultural reasons, opting instead for spiritual cleansing.

    The situation turned deadly on Monday when the suspect, reportedly acting in rage, attacked the girl at the pharmacy.

    He was restrained by a crowd and subsequently taken into custody and transferred to the Nsukka Area Command.

    Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, condemned the killing and assured the public that justice would be served. He directed the State Criminal Investigation Department to conclude investigations and charge the suspect to court without delay.

    The deceased’s body has been deposited at the mortuary for autopsy, and police urged residents to remain calm, assuring that the culprit would face the full weight of the law.

  • Tinubu launches 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem

    Tinubu launches 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem

    …as President, Akpabio, Wike kick off donation with N320m

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem appeal fund with donations totalling N320 million in support of Nigeria’s fallen heroes, injured veterans, and serving troops battling insecurity across the country.

    The event, held at the State House, Abuja, brought together top government officials, military chiefs, and members of the diplomatic corps, marking the formal kick-off of nationwide activities ahead of the Remembrance Day, commemorated annually on January 15.

    In his remarks, President Tinubu said the annual observance remains a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by men and women of the armed forces “in the defence of peace, unity and territorial integrity.”

    “As a grateful nation, we must continue to honour the fallen, support the wounded, and care for all who answer the call to serve. Remembrance Day is a reminder of the cost of peace and the enduring importance of national unity”, the President said.

    The President paid tribute to serving troops confronting terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and other security threats, describing their resilience as “a source of national pride.”

    He noted that the armed forces had demonstrated “exceptional courage across multiple theatres of operation,” restoring normalcy to many communities and contributing significantly to national stability.

    Under his administration, he said, improved collaboration among security agencies has yielded major gains, including the surrender of tens of thousands of insurgents, neutralisation of high-profile terrorist leaders, and the rescue of numerous captives.

    In the maritime domain, the President added, oil theft, piracy and illegal fishing have been curbed through enhanced platforms and new capabilities for the Army, Navy and Air Force.

    Tinubu also disclosed that the Ministry of Defence is developing a comprehensive programme that will deploy the expertise of retired military personnel to reclaim ungoverned spaces nationwide.

    The initiative, he said, aims to strengthen security, revive local economies, and prevent the resurgence of violence in previously affected communities.

    “This year marks a new chapter in our remembrance activities,” the President added, announcing the introduction of a ‘Thank a Soldier’ digital platform with a QR code to enable Nigerians at home and abroad to send messages of appreciation to troops.

    The initiative is designed to promote youth engagement and digital participation in national service.

    Urging Nigerians to wear the 2026 emblem with pride, Tinubu said it symbolizes sacrifice, honour, and national gratitude. He also appealed to citizens to reject divisive rhetoric, embrace respect and tolerance, and safeguard Nigeria’s diversity as a national asset.

    “As President and Commander-in-Chief, I remain committed to equipping and motivating our military. Security is a central pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he stated.

    Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to welfare improvements for military and security personnel, citing enhanced allowances, upgraded barracks, strengthened healthcare, expanded health insurance coverage, and biometric-based pension verification systems.

    In support of the appeal fund, President Tinubu donated N200 million.

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio followed with a N100 million donation after being decorated with the emblem by the Chairman of the Nigeria Legion, Mrs Grace Morenike Henry.

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, contributed N20 million.

    Also present at the emblem launch were: the Vice President, Kashim Shettima; National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu; Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; Minister of Budget and National Planning, Abubakar Bagudu; Chairman, Senate Committee on Defence, Ahmed Lawan.

    Others are Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Wahidi Shaibu; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke; DG National Intelligence Agency(NIA), Mohammed Mohammed; Director General of the Department of State Service (DSS), Mr Adeola Ajayi; and Heads of paramilitary agencies. 

  • Firms hold training on local content compliance

    Firms hold training on local content compliance

    17ASUS Resources Ltd., in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), has successfully concluded a training program on local content compliance in procurement and tendering.

    The training, which took place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, ended on November 28, 2025.

    The programme aimed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of local content compliance in procurement and tendering processes within the oil and gas industry.

    This initiative aligns with NCDMB’s commitment to deepening local content development and promoting indigenous participation in the sector.

    Key Takeaways from the training: understanding local content regulations and policies; compliance strategies and best practices; procurement planning and tendering processes; contract management and supplier development

    Abiola Akindolire, COO of 17 Asus Resources Ltd, was full of praise for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, lauding him for his support for the board.

    The NCDMB has been at the forefront of promoting local content development in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

    The board’s Executive Secretary, Felix Omatsola Ogbe has reiterated the organization’s commitment to implementing initiatives that foster local content growth and ensure compliance with industry regulations.

    This training program is part of NCDMB’s efforts to enhance the capacity of Nigerian businesses and professionals in the oil and gas sector.

    By investing in local content development, the board aims to increase the participation of indigenous companies in the industry and promote economic growth.

  • CSOs laud BPP for blocking financial leakages

    CSOs laud BPP for blocking financial leakages

    The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CCSO), a platform of over seventeen has commended the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) for blocking financial leakages through rigorous due process enforcement.

    The coalition gave the commendation at a news conference on Tuesday in Abuja where it lauded the director-general of BPP, Adebowale Adedokun, for implementing far – reaching reforms in the agency.

    According to the coalition, the BPP has advanced a contractor classification and rating system set for full rollout by January 2026, describing it as “a game-changer that will end the era of awarding multibillion-naira projects to incompetent contractors.”

    The organisations also commended Adedokun for establishing the intelligence unit, procurement surveillance and audit unit, and monitoring and evaluation unit.

    It added that faulted allegations of corruption against the DG, saying, it was “entirely false, baseless, and deliberately fabricated by interests opposed to the far-reaching reforms currently underway at the BPP.”

    While withdrawing their earlier plans to protest against the management of BPP over alleged mismanagement of the agency’s funds, the coalition tendered an apology to the director – general and the minister of finance and coordinating minister for the economy.

    “On behalf of the entire Coalition and its over seventeen member organizations, we hereby unreservedly withdraw every statement, press release, social media post, or public comment issued by CCSO or any of its affiliates that implicated Dr. Adebowale Adedokun and Mr. Olanrewaju Obasa in any wrongdoing,” the statement read in part.

    The coalition said, “The CCSO remains irrevocably committed to the fight against corruption wherever it exists. But we are equally committed to truth, fairness, and justice. When evidence shows that a public official is not the problem but part of the solution, it is our duty to acknowledge it publicly and without hesitation. That is what we have done today.

    “We urge the media, online platforms, and all Nigerians who helped amplify the false narrative to demonstrate the same courage by retracting their reports and issuing corrections.

    “We commend Dr. Adebowale Adedokun and the BPP for their transparency and willingness to be held accountable – qualities that true reformers embody.”

    The press statement was signed by Comrade Ibrahim Bello – National Coordinator, Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CFTPI); Hajiya Fatima Sani – Executive Director, Citizens Watch for Good Governance (CWGG); Barr. Chukwudi Eze – Chairman, Accountability and Democratic Values Initiative (ADVI); Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Okeke – President, Nigerian Coalition Against Corruption and Waste (NCACW); Pastor Emmanuel Adebayo – General Secretary, Voice of Conscience Foundation (VOCF); Mr. Tunde Ogunleye – National Convener, Integrity Monitors Network (IMN); Ms. Chioma Nwosu – Chairperson, Patriots for Transparent Procurement (PTP); Comrade Aisha Yusuf – National Secretary, Civil Liberties and Anti-Corruption Movement (CLACOM); Engr. Musa Abdullahi – Director of Programmes, Due Process Advocacy Network (DPAN) and Prof. Grace Adeyemi – Board Chair, National Alliance for Ethical Leadership (NAEL).

    Others are: Mr. Segun Olawale – Spokesperson, Citizens Coalition for Open Governance (CCOG); Barr. (Mrs.) Funmi Adewole – Legal Adviser, Justice and Accountability Project (JAP); Alhaji Usman Danladi – Northern Coordinator, Nigerian Integrity and Development Forum (NIDF); Rev. Fr. Joseph Okon – South-South Zonal Chairman, Public Funds Protection Movement (PFPM); Ms. Bolanle Adeoti – Women Leader, Transparency and Responsibility Advocates (TRA); Elder Peter Okonkwo – South-East Coordinator, Good Governance Monitors Assembly (GGMA), and Mallam Bello Yakubu – North-West Chairman, Anti-Corruption Crusaders Network (ACCN).

  • Osun 2026: Adebayo Adedamola emerges PDP guber candidate

    Osun 2026: Adebayo Adedamola emerges PDP guber candidate

    …polls 919 out of 957 votes cast by delegates

    Hon. Adebayo Olugbenga Adedamola on Tuesday emerged as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2026 Osun State governorship election.

    Out of 990 delegates expected for the primary, 957 were accredited for the exercise, which took place at Adolak Event Centre, Osogbo, under heavy security.

    The Chairman of the Primary Committee, Hon. Humphery Abba, announced before the exercise that the party had received two nominations, including Governor Ademola Adeleke and Hon. Adebayo Olugbenga Adedamola.

    He noted, however, that “a few hours before the primary, Adeleke dumped the party.”

    The exercise was closely monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    In conclusion, Hon. Abba declared Adedamola the winner, saying, “Void votes 20. As we informed earlier, one of the aspirants withdrew. The candidate who received the remaining votes is Adebayo Adedamola with 919 votes and stands elected and returned.”

  • Insecurity: KYGG tasks northern governors, seeks special anti-terror squad

    Insecurity: KYGG tasks northern governors, seeks special anti-terror squad

    The Kaduna Youths for Good Governance (KYGG) has urged the federal government and the 19 northern governors to take urgent and coordinated action to end the worsening insecurity plaguing the region. The group said the situation had become a national embarrassment that must no longer be tolerated.

    KYGG, in a statement by its chairman, Comrade Aliyu Modibbo, described the persistent attacks, killings, and kidnappings as a “colossal failure” of the government in its constitutional duty to protect citizens. It warned that the continued instability threatens the corporate existence of the North and undermines national cohesion.

    The group expressed concern that recent developments, including the involvement of the American government in discussions around Nigeria’s security challenges, should serve as a wake-up call. It urged the Federal Government and affected state governors to confront the crisis with renewed seriousness.

    While backing President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on insecurity in the North, KYGG said corruption within the security architecture could derail efforts, unless addressed decisively. It called on authorities to ensure transparency, vigilance, and sincerity in the ongoing operations.

    The organisation proposed the creation of a special anti-terror squad, similar to the National Guard conceived under the late General Sani Abacha. It said the team should draw personnel from the military, police, and paramilitary agencies, undergo specialized counter-terrorism training, and report directly to the National Security Adviser for effective oversight.

    According to KYGG, only a well-equipped and professionally trained special force can confront terrorists and bandits with the consistency required to end the violence. It insisted that Northern governors must close ranks with the Federal Government to bring the crisis to an end “once and for all.”

    The group also urged the governors to give priority to reforming the Almajiri/Tsangaya system, describing it as a long-standing social challenge that fuels vulnerabilities across the region. It said meaningful reform is necessary for long-term stability and social development.

    With the revival of the Almajiri Education Commission by President Tinubu, KYGG called on Northern governors to collaborate fully with the Commission to modernize the system, reduce its risks, and integrate it into mainstream education for the benefit of the region and the country.

  • IYC decries ‘neglect’ of Edo Ijaws

    IYC decries ‘neglect’ of Edo Ijaws

    As Governor Monday Okpebholo marks his first year in office, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Western Zone, has decried the perceived failure of the Edo state government to recognise and address the needs of the Ijaw people despite their crucial political and economic contributions to the state.

    In a press statement issued on Monday, the group said the Ijaw communities in Edo State had suffered “continued neglect,” alleging marginalisation of the Ijaw political class, traditional institutions, and a lack of development in Ijaw areas.

    The statement was signed by Comr. Nicholas Igrama, Chairman of the IYC Western Zone; Barr. Ebi Joshua Olowolayemo, Secretary; and Comr. Tare Magbei, Information Officer.

    The IYC noted that the Ijaw nation “mobilised massive support across the five Ijaw clans in Edo State” during the last governorship election, insisting that their votes “counted significantly toward the success of this administration.”

    However, the group expressed disappointment that, one year after assuming office, Governor Okpebholo had not appointed any individual from the Ijaw extraction,” adding that Ijaws are “conspicuously absent in the State Executive Council.”

    “The absence of even one Ijaw Commissioner speaks volumes and undermines the support our people continue to extend to this administration,” the statement added.

    The IYC further stressed that Ijaw communities constituted “the bedrock of the state’s oil wealth,” which qualifies Edo as an oil-producing state and entitles it to the 13 per cent derivation fund.

    It lamented, “There is no visible reflection of this revenue in our communities. We state this not out of bitterness or entitlement, but as a call for fairness, equity, and justice.”

    The Council urged the governor, as he marks one year in office, to “reflect on the traditional, development needs and rightful inclusion of the Ijaw nation,” insisting that “governance must be inclusive, and no ethnic group should feel alienated or sidelined.”

    The statement also implored the governor to reconsider his approach “so it doesn’t take to another form of agitation in the state where we contribute so much to sustain.”

  • Seven rescued after construction site collapses in Bauchi

    Seven rescued after construction site collapses in Bauchi

    Panic broke out in Bauchi on Tuesday when a section of an uncompleted storey building under construction on Sir Kashim Ibrahim Street suddenly collapsed, trapping seven workers on site.

    The incident, which occurred around 3 pm, drew residents and motorists who rushed to assist before emergency responders arrived.

    Deputy Director of the Bauchi State Fire Service, Dauda Pali, confirmed the development, saying his team moved swiftly after receiving a distress call.

    “By 3 pm, we were alerted to a building collapse at Sir Kashim Ibrahim Street, GRA, Bauchi. When we arrived, we verified the report and commenced rescue efforts without delay,” he said.

    Pali disclosed that all seven trapped construction workers were rescued alive and taken to the hospital for treatment.

    He added that the agency would investigate the cause of the collapse and urged contractors to adhere strictly to engineering standards to avert future incidents.