The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Davido returns to The Jennifer Hudson Show Thursday

    Davido returns to The Jennifer Hudson Show Thursday

    Afrobeats superstar Davido is scheduled to return to The Jennifer Hudson Show on Thursday, December 4, for another high-profile appearance.

    He will join Golden Globe-winning actress Niecy Nash-Betts as a featured guest, discussing the global success of his latest album, 5ive.

    This appearance marks a significant milestone in Davido’s career, showcasing his growing influence in the US entertainment market and the global popularity of Afrobeats.

    The Jennifer Hudson Show provides an ideal platform for Davido to connect with fans, share updates, and celebrate his success.

    Davido’s presence on the show reinforces Afrobeats as a major force in mainstream culture, introducing new audiences to Nigerian and African entertainment. 

    Other talented Nigerian artists have made appearances on The Jennifer Hudson Show, showcasing their unique styles and talents to a broader audience.

    Read Also: I have never denied Davido access to Imade – Sophia Momodu

    Tems was on the show in October 2024, where she performed her hit song “Love Me Jeje”.

    Davido also featured on the show in December 2023, delivering an impressive performance.

    Additionally, Burna Boy made a celebrated appearance on the show in November 2025, complete with a cultural homage and performance. 

  • I will not appear before Edo Assembly panel, says Obaseki

    I will not appear before Edo Assembly panel, says Obaseki

    Immediate past Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, said he would not appear before the Edo State House of Assembly ad-hoc committee set up to investigate funding and ownership of the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA) and the Radisson Blu hotel.

    The Edo Assembly set up the panel following a request by Governor Monday Okpebholo that the Assembly should probe funding and ownership of the projects including extent of the state government N3.8bn investment in the MOWAA and N28bn in Radisson Hotel.

    Former Governor Obaseki is scheduled to appear before the Committee on Thursday, December 4th, 2025.

    The Committee, had in a letter signed by its Secretary, Bekisu Oshone Wilson, listed other persons invited to include a former Edo Finance Commissioner, Mr. Joseph Eboigbe, former Attorney General of Edo State, Mr. Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi and Managing Director, Tilbury House Nigeria Limited.

    Others are Mr. Pramod Thorat, Project Manager of Hospitality Investment and Management Company (HIMC) Mr. Ugochukwu Anigbogu, Managing Director, Afrinvest Capital Limited, Managing Director, Meristem Trustees Limited and Managing Director, Emerging Africa Trustees Ltd.

    The statement said attendance by Obaseki and others were required as part of the committee’s investigation.

    Obaseki, who spoke through his media adviser, Crusoe Osagie, said it was offensive and laughable for the Assembly to invite him over a matter that was already in court.

    Read Also: Crusoe Osagie: Tribal warrior defending failed refugee, Obaseki

    He said the Edo Assembly should learn to know how the law works.

    The former Edo Governor said he could not be subjected to answer separately on the same issue.

    “It is subjudice for the former Governor to appear before the Edo Assembly in a matter already in court.

    “Why subject him to another round of questioning on the same issues?”

    Management of MOWAA had also refused to appear before the Edo Assembly Ad Hoc Committee.

    Its Counsel, Olayiwola Afolabi, said the Assembly could only make recommendations but that the Court woulds make the final decision on the issues.

  • Alumni worry over decline in quality of teaching, infrastructure in public schools

    Alumni worry over decline in quality of teaching, infrastructure in public schools

    The Alumni of Anglican Grammar School (Unity) Gbogan/Ode-Omu are worried over decline in the quality of teaching, infrastructure and performances in some public schools.

    They said the state of education in some public schools is gradually becoming worrisome.

    Speaking at the 40th reunion of the 1985 set of the Alumni, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Pastor Wale Adeleke, said the condition of some public schools nationwide needs urgent action.

    Speaking about the reunion, he said it was the culmination of a decade-long effort to bring classmates together, describing the event as joyful and sobering.

    “Bringing everyone together has taken 10 years, and thankfully, God has made it possible this year. Over time, we have sponsored students for JAMB, and three of them are now in universities.

    “Some of us also returned to teach whenever we gained admission. Coming back today fills us with pride but also with a sense of responsibility, especially when we see the present condition of the school.”

    Adeleke emphasised the critical role alumni must play in revitalising public schools across the country.

    “Government has failed in many areas and misplaced priorities. That’s why schools now lack teachers in key subjects such as Physics, Computer Science and English.”

    “As alumni, we have stepped in by employing teachers and paying their salaries. Physical structures may fail, but human capital endures,” he said. 

    Executive Secretary of the Senior Secondary Education Board, Mrs Hannah Ibidunni Kolawole, praised the body’s four decades of contributing to national development.

    “This gathering is more than a celebration of time; it is a celebration of legacy, of nurturing minds, shaping character and producing men and women who have made meaningful contributions to society.”

    She also highlighted the indispensable influence of the Old Students Association.

    “Through initiatives in infrastructure development, scholarships, mentorship and community engagement, your Association reflects the enduring spirit of giving back.”

    “Let this 40th anniversary be a renewed commitment to ensuring that the school continues to stand as a beacon of knowledge, character and service for generations to come,” she added.

    Vice Chairman of the Governing Board, Chartered Accountant Femi Yusuf, detailed the group’s continuous support for current students.

    “Our set has consistently paid WAEC and JAMB fees, sponsored tutorials and even placed teachers of Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English on our payroll. These actions are our wayy of bridging the gaps left by government.”

    Another member of the 1985 set, Pastor Funsho Popoola underscored the link between education and national progress.

    “Education is the strongest foundation for national growth. Our interventions, paying exam fees, hiring teachers, renovating facilities, are a call to all alumni to invest in the future of our schools.”

    “Without such support, students cannot compete globally, especially in IT, robotics and engineering.”

    He also raised concerns about declining parental involvement, saying “Many parents discourage their children from engaging fully in academic programmes because they believe education is a scam.”

  • Nigeria loses about 10 billion to post harvest waste annually, says Agric expert

    Nigeria loses about 10 billion to post harvest waste annually, says Agric expert

    Chief Executor Officer of Davidorlah Farms, Segun Alabi, said on Monday that Nigeria loses an approximately 10 billion dollars annually post harvest waste in fruits, vegetables, grains and other personable products.

    Addressing a news conference at the National Assembly, Alabi said these losses undermine farmers’ incomes, reduce food availability, and impede national economic growth, adding that 

    estimates indicate that Nigeria loses between 30% and 50% of its agricultural produce annually to waste, translating to billions of dollars lost each year.

    He said, “Each year, significant portions of crops are lost due to suboptimal harvesting, inadequate storage, poor transportation, and limited processing capacity”. 

    He said to address the challenge of agricultural waste, there is the need to investment in modern storage and processing facilities through the establishment of cold chains, silos, and local processing units which has the capacity to extend the shelf life of perishable products and enables value addition.

    He also called for enhanced transportation infrastructure and the improvement of rural roads and logistics systems ensures that produce reaches markets quickly and in good condition, while also providing farmers with knowledge on best harvesting practices, post-harvest handling, and waste minimization techniques helps reduce losses at the source.

    He also spoke of the deployment of affordable preservation methods, such as solar dryers and mobile processing units, can help smallholder farmers minimize spoilage and the need for government policies that promote private sector investment in agro-processing and provide incentives for waste reduction initiatives are essential.

    Alabi also said there was the need to reducing agricultural waste which he said will directly boosts Nigeria’s economy by increasing the

    availability of marketable produce, enhancing export potential, and improving food security. 

    He said, “With less waste, farmers and agribusinesses retain more value from their harvests, contributing to higher GDP and creating a more resilient agricultural sector. Savings from reduced losses can be reinvested, stimulating growth across the value chain.

    “Implementation of waste reduction strategies opens up numerous employment opportunities. New jobs arise in logistics, storage facility management, food processing, preservation technology manufacturing, and training services. As value-addition industries grow, they offer employment for youth and women, supporting inclusive economic development and reducing rural poverty.

    Read Also: SEC Nigeria: Building a sustainable capital market for economic prosperity

    “Minimizing agricultural waste translates to more efficient use of land, water, and energy resources. It also reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with decomposing organic waste and limits environmental degradation. Sustainable waste management practices, such as composting and recycling, can further enhance soil fertility and ecosystem health.

    “Addressing agricultural waste unlocks new streams of wealth creation. By converting waste into value-added products—such as animal feed, bioenergy, bioplastics, and organic fertilizers—entrepreneurs can tap into emerging markets. These ventures foster innovation, diversify income sources, and contribute to national wealth”.

    He said the financial losses Nigeria incurs from agricultural waste are substantial, but they also represent an immense opportunity for transformation. By adopting proven solutions and fostering a culture of waste reduction, Nigeria can strengthen its economy, create jobs, protect the environment, and generate new wealth.

  • NUPRC eyes $10b from 2025 licensing bid

    NUPRC eyes $10b from 2025 licensing bid

    The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) on Monday said it is expecting to rake in $10 billion from the 2025 licensing bid round.

    Commission’s Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe broke the news during the 2025 Licensing round portal launch in Abuja.

    The bid exercise is scheduled to last for six months, with effect from today 1st December, 2025.

    He said the exercise is billed to increase the country’s crude oil production to 2 billion barrels over the next 10 years when the blocks are fully operational.

    His words: “The Nigeria 2025 licensing round is therefore expected to attract about $10 billion in investment and add up to 2 billion barrels of oil output over the next 10 years, with an estimated 400,000 barrels per day of production volumes when the blocks are fully operational.”

    Komolafe revealed that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the listing of 50 oil and gas blocks across offshore swamp and shallow waters and, of course, offshore terrains spanning diverse terrains. 

    He said of the 50 blocks, 15 are onshore assets, shallow water 19, frontier 15 and one deep water asset. 

    According to him, the key objectives of the Nigeria 2025 licensing round are first, to grow oil and gas reserves through aggressive exploration and development efforts, like an earlier reiterated.

    He added that it is intended to increase Nigeria’s production capacity and government revenue. 

    Komolafe also said it is to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, from technical oilfields roles to supporting services, logistics supply chain, infrastructure, local content and local content, especially in regions where blocks are located. Expand opportunities for gas utilization and development in Nigeria in the field of energy transition.

    He said the Commission understands that in today’s volatile global energy landscape, certainty and predictability have become the true currencies of investment. 

    The NUPRC, according to him, has therefore moved to de-risk exploration. 

    Read Also: NUPRC: Setting the record straight

    He said through extensive multi-client surveys, the Commission has reprocessed thousands of kilometers of 2D and 3D seismic data, producing sharper, high-resolution images of our petroleum systems and reducing the uncertainties that once ended exploration decisions.

    For prospective investors, Komolafe said, this means entering a market where uncertainty is shrinking and where opportunity is backed by the richest, high-quality subsurface data available anywhere in Africa. 

    He added that this wealth of high-quality geophysical datasets means lower exploration risk, improved probability of discovery, faster appraisal timelines, reduced entry costs and accelerated journey from licensing to first oil and gas. 

    Announcing the launch of the portal, he said “Consolidating on the achievements of the 2024 licensing round, the Nigeria Offshore Petroleum Regulatory Commission is proud to formally announce the commencement of the Nigeria 2025 licensing round and the launch of the licensing round online portal br2025.nuprc.gov.ng.

    “This announcement is in line with the provisions of Section 73 of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, which prescribes a fair, transparent and competitive bidding process.”

  • UNILAG Law Alumni 85 renovate facilities, donate N10m

    UNILAG Law Alumni 85 renovate facilities, donate N10m

    The University of Lagos (UNILAG) Law Alumni Class of 1985 has been commended for supporting the renovation of facilities in the Faculty of Law in the institution and donating N10m to support indigent students as part of activities marking the group’s 40th anniversary.

    The Class was commended over the weekend  while handing over the newly renovated restrooms to the Faculty. 

    Speaking at the ceremony, the representative of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Taiwo Osipitan, commended the Class of 1985 for its generous intervention.

    While noting that lecturers are “trustees to the students they teach,” Professor Osipitan the contributions from alumni has helped to strengthen the university’s mandate to deliver world-class legal education.

    He said the support of the alumni is critical 

    since the UNILAG is owned by multiple stakeholders—including the Federal Government, alumni and donors. 

    Highlighting the strength of the Faculty of Law, the VC’s representative noted that the faculty boasts 21 professors and 8 Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), a record unmatched by any law faculty in Nigeria. 

    The Don described UNILAG law students as “fit-for-purpose lawyers,” who are  nurtured by a faculty he described as“incomparable.”

     The 85 Class was also applauded for addressing a core need that directly affects the students well-being by the President of the UNILAG Alumni Association Worldwide, Ifeoluwa Oyedele for their exemplary commitment to the university’s development. 

    He encouraged other alumni sets to emulate the gesture and continue supporting the institution through the alumni app available on the Google Play Store.

    He cited global benchmarks, noting that Harvard University manages a $57.3 billion endowment fund, while UNILAG currently has ₦1 billion.

    He therefore emphasized the need for sustained alumni participation in order to boost the institution’s financial base and student support systems.

    Apart from the renovation of the restrooms, the Class of 1985 also announced that it plans to have a ₦10 million endowment fund for indigent students in the Faculty aimed at supporting academically qualified students who face financial challenges.

    Project Chair, Chief Adetunji Orisalade, who was represented by his son, Barrister Damilola Orisalade presented an overview of the renovation works, after which Justice Bisi Akinlade, a distinguished member of the class, led other alumni in performing the ceremonial handover. 

    Read Also: UNILAG Alumni: town-gown partnerships vital for development

    In a separate presentation, former Director of Legal Services at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Yetunde Akinloye, described the anniversary as deeply emotional for members of the class.

    Her words: “Forty years ago, we stepped out of these gates unsure of what the future held. We were trained by some of the finest minds in academia. These include the likes of Professor Omotola of blessed memory, Agbede, Abiola Ojo, Adeyemi, Akanki, Adesanya, Anifalaje, and former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. This anniversary felt like a landmark, and we decided it was time to give back to the place where it all began,” she said.

    The Dean of the Faculty of Law, Professor Abiola Sanni, however thanked the alumni for their generosity, describing their efforts as a seed that would inspire other sets to support the faculty.

    Other prominent members of the Class of ’85 present included  legal practitioner, Taiwo Kupolati (SAN), Olusegun Akinloye, Justice Olabisi Akinlade, Justice Yetunde Adesanya, Akin Falade, Professor Kunle Aina, and Adedeji Adeshina.

  • First Lady rallies Nigerians behind Tinubu’s drive for an HIV-free Nigeria by 2030

    First Lady rallies Nigerians behind Tinubu’s drive for an HIV-free Nigeria by 2030

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has appealed to citizens across all walks of life to rally behind the Tinubu administration’s renewed commitment to ending HIV/AIDS in the country by 2030, saying national unity and collective responsibility are essential to achieving the target.

    Speaking at the 2025 World AIDS Day commemoration held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja, the First Lady said the day offered “an opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment,” stressing that Nigeria must not lose momentum after years of notable progress in prevention, treatment, and care.

    Despite gains recorded in partnership with global donors, she warned that stigma and discrimination remain strong barriers, urging Nigerians to “confront the judgment and exclusion that still surrounds HIV/AIDS,” and ensure every affected person is treated with dignity.

    Senator Tinubu highlighted recent strides under the national HIV response, including prioritising the elimination of vertical transmission, expanding paediatric treatment, and strengthening long-term sustainability. 

    She noted that with robust support from the Global Fund, the National AIDS and STDs Control Programme (NASCP) had made “significant progress,” especially in protecting mothers and children.

    She also spotlighted the Free to Shine Campaign, launched nationwide this year through the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), which promotes the triple elimination of HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis by 2030. 

    According to her, the initiative reinforces Africa’s political will to safeguard women and children through early testing, timely treatment, and stigma reduction.

    “We are moving steadily towards the global target of eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B by 2030,” she said, noting that integration of health services and efficient resource use have boosted results.

    However, she cautioned that Nigeria’s HIV response remains heavily donor-dependent, making sustainability a crucial concern as international funding patterns shift. 

    She welcomed the Federal Government’s proactive approval of $200 million to support HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria programmes, and disclosed that NACA had begun deeper engagements with state governments to ensure “long-term ownership and continuity” of interventions.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Tinubu nominates ex-Oyo First Lady Florence Ajimobi as ambassador

    Calling for national solidarity, the First Lady urged: “As we move forward, I call on all Nigerians to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his commitment to achieving an HIV-free Nigeria by 2030.”

    She commended the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate; the Director-General of NACA, Dr. Temitope Ilori; NASCP; development partners; civil society groups; and traditional and religious leaders for sustaining Nigeria’s HIV response.

    Senator Tinubu also appealed directly to families, teachers, and young people, stressing the need for open conversations and responsible health behaviour.

    “HIV/AIDS is no longer a disease of shame. To our young people, take responsibility for your health—get tested and know your status. To our communities, let us foster a culture of love, acceptance, and support”, she said.

    Reaffirming her optimism, the First Lady said Nigeria must continue to show empathy, compassion, and resilience as it works towards “ending HIV/AIDS by 2030.”

  • SEC Nigeria: Building a sustainable capital market for economic prosperity

    SEC Nigeria: Building a sustainable capital market for economic prosperity

    By Ayodeji Komolafe 

    The Nigerian capital market has long been recognided as the barometer of the nation’s economic health and a critical engine for growth. Under the strategic leadership of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC Nigeria), this engine is being meticulously retooled, refined, and accelerated. 

    The Commission is no longer just a regulator; it is a visionary architect, constructing a market that is resilient, inclusive, innovative, and globally competitive. 

    This multi-faceted transformation, focused on sustainability and economic prosperity, is evident in several landmark initiatives.

    The Cornerstone: The Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025

    A robust legal framework is the bedrock of any thriving capital market. And recognising that the previous Act was struggling to keep pace with a rapidly evolving financial landscape, the SEC championed the groundbreaking Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025. According to market stakeholders, this is not merely an amendment. it is also a comprehensive overhaul designed for the future.

    Key innovations of the ISA 2025 include:

    · Enhanced Regulatory Powers: It grants the SEC sharper teeth to proactively address complex market abuses, cyber-security threats, and the cross-border nature of modern finance.

    · Embracing FinTech and Digital Assets: The Act provides clear regulatory certainty for digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and tokenized securities, fostering innovation while ensuring investor protection.

    · Strengthening Corporate Governance: It introduces stricter governance codes and accountability measures for publicly listed companies, enhancing market integrity and attracting quality listings.

    · Streamlined Dispute Resolution: The Act establishes more efficient mechanisms for resolving investor grievances, bolstering confidence in the market’s fairness.

    The ISA 2025 is the strategic blueprint that empowers all other initiatives, positioning Nigeria as a forward-thinking jurisdiction for investment.

    Protecting the Investor: The unrelenting clampdown on Ponzi schemes

    The scourge of Ponzi and other illegal investment schemes has eroded the savings of countless Nigerians and dented public trust. However, the SEC, under its “Operation Know and Verify” campaign, has moved from advisories to aggressive action.

    Leveraging the enhanced powers of the ISA 2025, the Commission is:

    · Employing Advanced Surveillance: Utilizing technology and data analytics to identify and track the digital footprints of illegal fund managers.

    · Enforcing Swift Sanctions: Perpetrators now face severe penalties, including asset forfeiture and prosecution, serving as a strong deterrent.

    · Massive Public Enlightenment: A relentless campaign across traditional and social media educates citizens on how to identify and report these schemes, making the public the first line of defence.

    This unwavering commitment to cleansing the market ecosystem is fundamental to preserving its integrity and protecting the hard-earned money of Nigerians.

    Deepening Inclusivity: The strategic promotion of non-interest finance

    In a bid to tap into a vast pool of domestic and international capital, the SEC has placed a strategic focus on growing the Non-Interest Finance (NIF) segment. Understanding its appeal beyond religious considerations to include ethical and alternative financing, the Commission has:

    Developed a Robust Regulatory Framework: Creating clear guidelines for the issuance of Sukuk, Islamic funds, and other NIF products.

    · Catalyzed Market Activity: The success of sovereign Sukuk issuances for infrastructure development has demonstrated the viability of the asset class, paving the way for corporate issuers.

    · Fostered Capacity Building: Working with market operators to build expertise in structuring, distributing, and managing NIF products.

    This focus is not just about inclusion; it is also bout unlocking billions of dollars in ethical capital for national development, funding critical projects in infrastructure, housing, and agriculture.

    Going Global: Strategic international engagements and partnerships

    No capital market is an island. The SEC has proactively re-engaged with the global financial community to attract foreign investment, share best practices, and enhance Nigeria’s standing.

    · Membership in International Bodies: Active participation in organizations like the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) ensures Nigeria’s voice is heard and its regulations are aligned with global standards.

    · Roadshows and Investor Meetings: Targeted engagements in key financial hubs like London, New York, and Dubai are showcasing the reformed Nigerian market and its attractive investment opportunities.

    · Signing of MoUs: Bilateral agreements with other capital market regulators facilitate cross-border supervision and information exchange.

    The Proof is in the Numbers: Significant Growth in Market Capitalization

    The tangible outcome of these strategic reforms is a market experiencing remarkable growth. The Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) has witnessed a significant surge in market capitalisation, breaching historic milestones. 

    For instance, the stock market section of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) gained 45.5 per cent or N28.52 trillion to hit N91.286 trillion as at the end of November, up from N62.763 trillion at the end of 2024. 

    Similarly, the NGX All-Share Index closed November. 2025, at 143,520.53 basis points, up by 39.44 per cent, from the 102,926.40 basis points at the close of 2024.

    This growth is driven by:

    · Increased Investor Confidence: Both local and foreign investors are responding positively to the enhanced regulatory environment.

    · New Listings: Attracting major domestic companies to list and rewarding them with higher valuations.

    · Robust Performance of Key Sectors: Banking, telecommunications, and consumer goods have shown impressive resilience and growth.

    This rising capitalization is a direct vote of confidence in the SEC’s stewardship and a powerful indicator of the market’s vital role in wealth creation.

    Collaborating for development: The World Bank, IFC, and FSD Africa

    Recognizing the value of strategic partnerships, the SEC has deepened its collaboration with development finance institutions. Working closely with the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and FSD Africa has been instrumental in:

    · Technical Assistance: Building internal capacity for risk-based supervision and developing new market segments like green bonds.

    · Market Development: Supporting initiatives to deepen the corporate bond market and enhance liquidity.

    · Investor Education Programs: Co-funding nationwide campaigns to improve financial literacy.

    These partnerships provide not just funding, but world-class knowledge and technical expertise, accelerating the market’s development trajectory.

    The landmark move: Transitioning from T+3 to T+2 settlement

    In a landmark move for market efficiency, the SEC successfully orchestrated the transition from a T+3 to a T+2 settlement cycle. This means trades are now settled two business days after the transaction date, instead of three.

    The implications are profound:

    · Reduced Counterparty Risk: Shorter settlement times mean less exposure to default risk for buyers and sellers.

    · Enhanced Liquidity: Investors get access to their funds and securities faster, improving capital efficiency.

    · Global Competitiveness: The T+2 cycle aligns Nigeria with leading global markets like the United States and Europe, making it more attractive for international investors.

    This technical achievement, though complex in its execution, demonstrates the SEC’s commitment to building a market that is not only large but also efficient and modern.

    A market reimagined for a prosperous future

    The journey of the Nigerian capital market under the current leadership of the SEC is a compelling narrative of transformation. By strengthening its legal foundations with the ISA 2025, protecting investors, promoting inclusive finance, engaging globally, fostering strategic partnerships, and enhancing operational efficiency, the Commission is building more than just a market—it is building a sustainable platform for long-term economic prosperity. 

    The significant growth in market capitalization is the resounding echo of these efforts. As Nigeria continues on its path of economic diversification and development, a dynamic, transparent, and robust capital market, as championed by the SEC, will undoubtedly be its cornerstone.

    – Ayodeji Komolafe, an economist and investment banker, writes from Lagos.

  • FAME Foundation unveils HerSTEM inclusive tournament ahead of 2025 International Day of PWD

    FAME Foundation unveils HerSTEM inclusive tournament ahead of 2025 International Day of PWD

    FAME Foundation has announced plans for the 2025 edition of the HerSTEM Inclusive Tournament, an event designed to celebrate and empower Nigerian girls and women with disabilities. 

    The tournament is scheduled as part of national activities marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3.

    Executive Director of FAME Foundation, Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, explained that this year’s tournament aims to reinforce the importance of building a Nigeria where people of all abilities can participate, contribute, and thrive. 

    She noted that the global theme for 2025 underscores the need for societies that create room for everyone to reach their full potential.

    According to her, the country’s development is deeply connected to how well it includes its diverse population. 

    She emphasised that many Nigerians, particularly girls and women living with disabilities, continue to face systemic barriers to education, employment, quality of life, and opportunities in sports. 

    “Nigeria is inherently diverse. At FAME Foundation, we recognise the power of sports to unite people. When individuals are shut out of sports, we deny them visibility, leadership, confidence, and the chance to show what they are capable of,” she said.

    Atoyebi revealed that the 2025 HerSTEM Inclusive Tournament will offer a national stage for athletes with disabilities to display their strength and determination. 

    The event will be held at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, featuring competitions such as the 100m finals for visually impaired athletes, athletes with cerebral palsy, and Deaf athletes; discus throw for amputees and polio survivors; and shot put for amputees and Lexul athletes. She encouraged the public to attend and support the athletes as they compete.

    She also urged government agencies, private sector players, development partners, and the media to channel greater resources toward parasports, accessible sporting facilities, and platforms that highlight the abilities of persons with disabilities. 

    As preparations continue, she expressed solidarity with every young woman set to participate, describing their perseverance as an inspiration and a catalyst for broader change.

    FAME Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to championing equality, strengthening inclusion, and fostering a Nigeria where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate and succeed. 

    In its closing remarks, the organisation acknowledged the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) for partnering on the 2025 HerSTEM Inclusive Tournament, commending the agency for its dedication to inclusive development and its support for initiatives that advance national progress.

  • Oyo College debunks rumour of attack

    Oyo College debunks rumour of attack

    Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology (OYSCATECH), Igboora called on members of the public to disregards what it described as false and malicious news of an attack on the institution.

    Noting that the College is not under any siege, the management of the institution said the purported picture circulating on the social media is Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated.

    In a statement signed by the Deputy Registrar, Public & Alumni Relations, Opeyemi Olawore, the management urged the members of the public, parents, students, residents of Igboora community and Ibarapa environs to disregard the false and cruel post circulating on the internet which “is from mischief makers, whose motives are unknown.”

    The statement reads in part, “The attention of the management of Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology (OYSCATECH), Igboora has been drawn to an AI generated picture showing militants at the entrance of the gate of OYSCATECH.

    “The management hereby condemn in its entirety, the false and misleading image circulating on the internet, which is capable of causing confusion and panic within the community, among students and parents.

    Read Also: Oyo College of Nursing launches four new faculties

    “Members of the public, parents, students, residents of Igboora community and Ibarapa environs are hereby informed to please disregard the false and cruel post circulating on the internet which is from mischief makers, whose motives are unknown.

    “The Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igboora is not under any siege of militants or bandits.

    “For the records, the OYSCATECH community and its environs are peaceful and safe, while students are receiving lectures and as well going about their normal duties. 

    “On Friday, November 28, 2025, the matriculation ceremony of Students offering Degree prgrammes was held, wherein visitors and parents from within and outside Oyo State were in the Institution to witness the epoch making occasion which was first of its kind.

    “Members of the public are hereby notified to desist from circulating any false AI generated picture that is misleading about the Institution, as anyone caught will surely be made to face the wrath of the law.”