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  • South East happy with appointment of Ihedioha into NRS – Onoh

    South East happy with appointment of Ihedioha into NRS – Onoh

    The former Southeast spokesperson to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Chairman of the Forum of Former Members of the Enugu House of Assembly, Denge Josef Onoh, has defended the appointment of Obinna Ihedioha as an Executive Director, People, Stakeholders & Communication in the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS).

    Onoh described the Federal Government’s appointment as a recognition of professionalism and urged the protesting southeast APC youths to embrace unity since the appointment is merit-driven and aligned with national interest.

    Onoh noted that Ihedioha is a senior-level strategist with over 24 years of distinguished experience in strategy, governance, public sector reform, portfolio management, accountability frameworks, human capital strategy, and stakeholder management.

    He said that Ihedioha’s professional record is exemplary and directly relevant to his new role, where the Directorate oversees human capital management, workforce development, corporate communications, and stakeholder engagement; ensuring a skilled workforce, coherent messaging, strong institutional relationships, and a trusted organizational brand for the NRS.

    Ihedioha had served as the Senior Adviser and Head of Strategy at the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) where he managed an investment portfolio exceeding $4 billion and played a pivotal role in establishing flagship national platforms such as the Africa Sovereign Investment Platform, InfraCredit, Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company, Development Bank of Nigeria, and RIPLE (Renewable Investment Platform for Limitless Energy).

    Ihedioha also held the positions of Deputy Managing Director at the UK-Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (UKNIAF); Senior Infrastructure Investment Adviser for Adam Smith International, supporting the Presidency and Ministry of Power – Contributing to high-level national and international bodies, including as a member of the G20 Technical Working Group.

    Ihedioha also worked as the World Bank Climate Finance Working Group; Presidential Task Force on Power and the Nigeria Economic Management Team. He had served on the boards of impactful organizations such as CFG Africa, FundiCo, and the Clean Energy Local Currency Fund UKNIAF.

    Onoh stated that Ihedioha’s educational credentials further underscore his expertise, holding a BSc in Political Science from the University of Abuja; an MSc in Public Policy & Management from the University of Manchester, and alumni status from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

    Onoh commended the Chairman of the NRS for making one of the best professional choices in appointing Obinna, rather than resorting to political selection, saying that the decision clearly demonstrates the agency’s prioritization of professionalism, competence, and proven track record as the foundation for delivering tangible positive outcomes to Nigerians.

    “In an institution tasked with revenue optimization and national development, such merit-based appointments are essential for progress. To the APC youth and anyone questioning Obinna’s suitability merely because his brother is a former governor or because he is not perceived as an APC member; this line of criticism stems from a narrow partisan mindset that undermines a progressive vision for a better Nigeria.

    Read Also: Ministers must perform better to enhance APC 2027 chances – Onoh

    “True nation-building demands that we value expertise, dedication, and service to the country above narrow party loyalty. Those who insist on reducing high-level appointments to political patronage alone have no place in the inclusive, talent-driven future we are all working toward one where Nigerians from diverse backgrounds contribute to shared prosperity.”

    Onoh told the protesting APC youths involved that no amount of political pressure or orchestrated campaigns will compel President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse this appointment, revealing that the President remains resolutely focused on ensuring professionalism over partisan politics, particularly in critical sectors of the economy and administration like the Nigeria Revenue Service, which he said is vital to national revenue generation and fiscal stability.

    “Any overbearing attempt to politicize this merit-based decision and reduce it to partisan calculations will not be tolerated, as it runs counter to the administration’s core commitment to competence, national interest, and inclusive governance. The Southeast is extremely proud of Ihedioha’s outstanding professional service record and unwavering commitment to the service of our nation.”

    Onoh urged the APC youths to channel their collective energy into galvanized support for the party, the government, and the nation, rather than dissipating it on issues that distract real development.

  • Teniola Aladese urges women to live independently before marriage

    Teniola Aladese urges women to live independently before marriage

    Actress Teniola Aladese has underscored the importance of women achieving independence before marriage, describing it as a critical foundation for a successful union.

    Speaking on a recent episode of the That’s What She Said podcast, Aladese said women who experience living alone prior to marriage are better prepared for its demands, as they gain a deeper understanding of their personal preferences, boundaries, and responsibilities.

    She noted that many women move directly from their family homes into their husbands’ residences without first experiencing independent living, a transition she warned can lead to culture shock, emotional strain, and, in some cases, regret.

    Read Also: Teniola Aladese speaks on payment disparity in Nollywood

    According to Aladese, personal independence before marriage fosters maturity, self-awareness, and resilience, qualities she believes are essential for building healthy and sustainable relationships.

    “A lot of women just go from their family’s houses to their husband’s house. But they don’t particularly know what they like; they don’t know what kind of trait their husband-to-be has. So they are shocked when they enter the home, and they see some mannerisms that they haven’t experienced before.

    “But I feel like when you live alone before getting married, you get to know yourself, you get to know what you like, you get to know the nonsense you would take and the nonsense you would not take.

    “But when you just enter into marriage without any experience of living on your own, that is when everything starts shocking you, and regrets creep in,” she said.

  • Ebonyi PDP zonal vice chairman, dumps party for ADC with supporters

    Ebonyi PDP zonal vice chairman, dumps party for ADC with supporters

    Former zonal vice chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Ebonyi Central Zone, Mr. Kevin Chukwu, has formally resigned from the party and defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alongside more than 10,000 supporters drawn from various political parties.

    The defection ceremony, held in his Enyimba Agalegu community in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, attracted party stakeholders, loyalists, and residents from surrounding communities.

    Addressing supporters, Chukwu disclosed that he officially submitted his resignation from the PDP on January 8 to his ward chairman, who acknowledged receipt.

    He said the decision followed extensive consultations with his constituents and growing dissatisfaction with the political direction of major parties.

    “Politics is local. You cannot play politics away from your locality,” he said. “The position I was in politically was affecting my people, and when I returned home, they made it clear that it was not in their best interest.”

    Chukwu explained that his move to the ADC was influenced not only by the wishes of his people but also by what he described as a broader national political shift. He noted that several prominent political figures across the country had also defected to the party in pursuit of a better future for Nigeria.

    According to him, Nigerians are increasingly frustrated with unfulfilled political promises and are now demanding a new direction anchored on credible leadership and measurable development.

    “We are tired of getting promises here and there. We now want to elect leaders who will do the right thing and move Nigeria forward,” he declared.

     Chukwu said he was yet to decide whether he would contest any political position in the 2027 general elections, stressing that his immediate focus was on reorganizing his political base and strengthening the ADC in the area.

    “The most important thing now is to organize my political life… With ADC, I believe I will be able to shape my political future, either to contest or support others,” he noted.

    He described the turnout at the event as overwhelming, claiming that more than 10,000 supporters had joined him in the defection, adding that many of them mobilized themselves without financial inducement.

    Chukwu urged Nigerians, particularly his constituents, to embrace what he described as a “new political circle” and align with parties they believe hold the future of the country.

    Welcoming the new members, the Ebonyi state chairman of ADC, Jennifer Adibe, expressed excitement over the influx of new members led by Kelvin Chukwu.

    She said the decision of the defectors to join ADC followed a careful review of the party’s manifesto and ideology.

    “I am very, very happy to receive members from PDP, Labour Party, and other parties led by Chief Kelvin Chukwu,” Adibe said. “After looking at our manifesto, they agreed that this is the right place to be.”

    According to her, all the executive members of the PDP from the defectors’ bloc have formally joined ADC, stressing that the party is committed to integrating them fully into its existing structure.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Ebonyi PDP 2023 governorship candidate resigns party membership

    “This is a coalition, and we must work together. We will harmonize interests and ensure that everyone is carried along. ADC is accommodating, as symbolized by our handshake logo”, she said.

    Adibe contrasted the emerging coalition with past political alliances that failed to meet public expectations, insisting that the ADC-led coalition is different because of the quality of leaders involved and their shared commitment to the welfare of Nigerians.

    “This coalition has the interest of Nigerians at heart. It is not like the ones we have seen in the past. You will see the difference when we begin to win elections,” she said.

    Addressing concerns about managing diverse interests within the growing coalition, the ADC chairman emphasized harmonization rather than exclusion, adding that the party would avoid domination by any single group.

    “We will not have parallel structures or parallel governments. When people are accommodated, there will be unity,” she stated.

    The event ended with the formal presentation of ADC membership cards to the new entrants.

    The defection is seen as a significant boost for the ADC in Ebonyi State, as it continues to expand its influence ahead of the 2027 elections.

  • Bimbo Ademoye celebrates victory in YouTube copyright dispute

    Bimbo Ademoye celebrates victory in YouTube copyright dispute

    Actress and filmmaker Bimbo Ademoye has expressed deep gratitude and relief after a prolonged copyright dispute over her YouTube film Where Love Lives was resolved in her favour.

    In an Instagram post on Monday, Ademoye thanked her mother, friends, creative team, and especially her loyal online supporters, whom she fondly refers to as her “cyber family,” for their role in helping to take down the infringing content.

    She wrote: “God don’t play about me, that’s how I know he’s real. I want to say a very big thank you to my mother @uduakisong1 for not resting till the issue was resolved. I love you forever mom. To @ugoccie and her team, thank you for standing by me and helping out. @sir.fela thank you for always helping to make sure things are resolved.

    “And most importantly! to my Amazing cyber family! Haa you guys, una no dey carry me play o. You guys reported Emmanuel Davies till the song got taken down on all platforms. I’m kicking my feet in the air like a little child . It’s giving play with her and you’d incure the watch of her cyber family. I love you guys so much”.

    The issue stemmed from an individual using a fake alias Emmanuel Davies, who falsely claimed copyright over a song featured in the film.

    The track, fully owned by Ademoye with the artist’s approval, was allegedly uploaded to platforms like Spotify under Davies’ name as composer.

    Read Also: Bimbo Ademoye cries out over copyright claim on YouTube movie song

    This led to a false copyright strike on her YouTube upload of Where Love Lives, a December 2025 release starring Uzor Arukwe, Chioma Nwosu, and Osas Ighodaro that amassed millions of views, resulting in demonetisation and diverted earnings.

    Ademoye initially voiced her distress publicly, vowing legal action and demanding the claim’s immediate removal.

    She described the ordeal as deeply upsetting, noting it left her in tears and unable to engage normally with supporters. 

    “Pls if you encountered me yesterday and I wasn’t smiling ,no vex abeg ,life and emmanuel Davies tried me. Anyways we’re still working on getting Emmanuel Davies( it’s a fake name by the way) Thank you sooooo much guys.

    “I love you guys! A very huge thank you to everyone who reached out to me and tried to help. If I didn’t pick your calls, pls don’t be offended, just the word “hello ” had me In tears ,and my head was banging from crying . I love and appreciate you guys deeply”, she added.

  • FULL LIST: Five African countries with most CAF accredited stadiums

    FULL LIST: Five African countries with most CAF accredited stadiums

    African football infrastructure continues to gain global attention as more countries invest heavily in modern stadiums that meet the Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards. CAF-approved stadiums are critical for hosting continental competitions such as the CAF Champions League, Confederation Cup, Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, and other international fixtures, serving as a benchmark for safety, pitch quality, media facilities, and spectator comfort.

    In recent years, the race to upgrade sporting infrastructure has intensified across the continent, driven by the desire to host major tournaments and improve domestic football experiences. A review of CAF-approved stadiums across Africa shows a clear group of countries leading the way in meeting these standards.

    Morocco (12 CAF-approved stadiums)

    Morocco tops the list with an impressive 12 CAF-approved stadiums, underlining the country’s long-term commitment to football development and infrastructure excellence. The North African nation has invested heavily in modernizing existing facilities and constructing new stadiums capable of hosting high-profile continental and international matches. Morocco’s dominance in this category has played a major role in its frequent hosting of CAF competitions and its successful bid to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

    Read Also: CAF Champions League: Rivers United hold Power Dynamos, secure first point

    South Africa (10 CAF-approved stadiums)

    South Africa ranks second with 10 CAF-approved stadiums, many of which were built or extensively renovated ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The country boasts world-class facilities spread across major cities, providing a strong backbone for domestic leagues and continental competitions. South Africa’s infrastructure continues to position it as a reliable host for major football events in Africa.

    Algeria (7 CAF-approved stadiums)

    Algeria occupies third place with seven CAF-approved stadiums, reflecting recent investments in sports infrastructure. The country has upgraded several facilities to international standards, supporting both club and national team competitions. Algeria’s steady rise in approved venues has enhanced its capacity to host CAF tournaments and international fixtures.

    Côte d’Ivoire (6 CAF-approved stadiums)

    Côte d’Ivoire follows closely with six CAF-approved stadiums, a significant achievement boosted by preparations for hosting the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Extensive renovations and new constructions ensured that stadiums across the country met CAF requirements, leaving a lasting legacy for Ivorian football and future continental engagements.

    Egypt (5 CAF-approved stadiums)

    Egypt rounds out the top five with five CAF-approved stadiums, reinforcing its status as one of Africa’s traditional football powerhouses. With a rich history of hosting major tournaments, Egypt’s stadiums continue to meet CAF standards, supporting its clubs’ regular participation in continental competitions and its national team’s international commitments.

    Overall, the distribution of CAF-approved stadiums highlights the growing importance of infrastructure in shaping African football’s future. Countries at the top of the list have shown that sustained investment in facilities not only enhances their ability to host major tournaments but also strengthens domestic leagues and player development. 

  • Customs revenue collections hit 7.2tr in 2025 

    Customs revenue collections hit 7.2tr in 2025 

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Monday said its revenue collection hit N7.2 trillion in 2025.

    Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale broke the news on Monday during the International Customs Day 2026 in Abuja.

    The theme of the event is “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment.”

    Read Also: Customs seizes vehicles, PMS, donkey products worth N229m in Bauchi

    According to him, the revenue collection grew 10 per cent over the target.

    Details shortly…

  • UPDATED: Alleged forgery: AGF takes over Ozekhome’s case from ICPC

    UPDATED: Alleged forgery: AGF takes over Ozekhome’s case from ICPC

    …Ex-AGF Agabi leads 15 SANs for defence

    The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has taken over the prosecution of the criminal case brought against Mike Ozekhome (SAN) by the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC).

    The development, however, stalled Ozekhome’s planned arraignment on Monday before a HIgh Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on the three-count charge filed against him by the ICPC and in which he is accused of among others, forgery.

    When the case was called, the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) said he was representing the AGF and informed the court  of the AGF’s decision to take over the case from the ICPC.

    Oyedepo said the AGF was acting under his powers as provided in Section 174 of the Constitution in a collaborative effort with the ICPC.

    The DPPF said the AGF’s decision was informed by the need to ensure that the prosecution complies with the highest standard of effectiveness, efficiency, diligence and compliance with due process of law. 

    He added that the AGF was guided by public interest in order to instil confidence, fairness and competence in the criminal justice.

    Oyedepo said the interagency cooperation in the fight corruption was also considered by the AGF in taking over the case  

    He assured the court that the right of the defendant would be protected, adding that no party would suffer any injustice.

    Oyedepo subsequently asked the court to take judicial notice of the formal take over of the trial by the office of the AGF.

    He then sought an adjournment to enable the AGF’s office retrieve the case file from the ICPC, review same and decide on what next steps to take.

    ICPC’s lawyer, Osuebeni Akpomisingha (who filed the charge) did not object to the take over of the case by the AGF.

    Read Also: Ozekhome: The heart of the matter 

    Akpomisingha assured that the ICPC, as the agency that investigated the case, will fully cooperate with the AGF’s office in the prosecution of the case.

    Former AGF, Kanu Agabi (SAN) who led a team of lawyers (which comprised 15 SANs) for the defence, also did not object to the take over of the case by Fagbemi.

    Upon an application for adjournment by Oyedepo, which was not opposed by Agabi, Jusice

    Peter Kekemeke adjourned till February 24 for arraignment.

    Counts in the charge, marked: FCT/HC/CR/010/2026 read:

    *That you Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN (M) ’68yrs’ of No. 53, Nile Street, Maitama, Abuja, sometime in August, 2021 or thereabout at a place outside Nigeria i.e. London, directly received house 79 Randall Avenue, London NW2 7SX purportedly given to you by one Mr Shani Tali, an act you knew constitutes a felony and you thereby committed an offence contrary to section 13 and punishable under section 24 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences, Act, 2000.

    *That you Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN (m) ’68yrs’ of No. 53, Nile Street, Maitama, Abuja, sometime in August 2021 or thereabout at Abuja, while being a legal practitioner and senior advocate of Nigeria did make a false document, to wit: Nigeria passport A07535463 bearing the name of Mr Shani Tali with intent to use same to support claim of ownership of property known and described as 79 Randall Avenue, London NW2 7SX with intent to commit fraud and you thereby committed an offence contrary to section 363 and punishable under section 364 of the Penal Code CAP 532 laws of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja, 2006.

    *That you Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN (M) ’68yrs’ of No. 53, Nile Street, Maitama, Abuja, sometime in August 2021 or thereabout at Abuja, while being a legal practitioner and senior advocate of Nigeria dishonestly used as genuine a false Nigeria passport A07535463 bearing the name of Mr Shani Tali to support claim of ownership of property known and described a s 79 Randall Avenue, London NW2 7SX when you had reason to believe that the said document was false and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 366 and punishable under Section 364 of the Penal Code CAP 532 laws of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja, 2006.

  • Foundation advocates stronger govt, donor autistic children support, empowerment 

    Foundation advocates stronger govt, donor autistic children support, empowerment 

    The Federal Government, sub-national governments and development partners have been urged to adopt a more strategic and sustained approach to autism in order to promote the growth, development and empowerment of affected children and enable them contribute meaningfully to national development.

    Stanley Effah, President and Trustee of the Ferdinand Effah Music Heritage Foundation (FEMHF), said urgent intervention is required to prevent thousands of children living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from being trapped in a cycle of neglect, exclusion and wasted potential.

    Effah noted that many autistic children possess exceptional talents and inner strengths, but are often unable to fulfil their potential because their parents are often financially and emotionally overwhelmed.

    He said it was in response to this gap that FEMHF decided to deploy creativity as a strategic advocacy tool, using music, performance and public engagement to drive awareness, acceptance and inclusion of people living with autism across Nigeria.

    According to Effah in a statement on Monday, the Foundation’s innovative approach is anchored on the official launch and release of Ferdy’s Band’s first record label music album, A Voice for Autism, slated for April 2, 2026, which also serves as a prelude to the Harmony for Autism Music Charity Concert scheduled for the same day.

    The initiative, the Foundation said, is part of a wider strategy to position music as a social connector and advocacy engine for families affected by autism.

    According to the Foundation, the album release, the nationwide tour and the World Autism Day celebration on April 2 are designed to converge as a single creative platform to stimulate public attention, drive inclusion and place autism conversations at the centre of national discourse.

    Effah said the 2026 album features three songs in anthemic, jazz and ambient styles, carefully crafted to foster understanding and acceptance for autism.

    The tracks will be further developed in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese, and produced in audio and high-definition music video formats for public entertainment viewing on major music television channels such as MTV, especially if support and sponsorship are readily available to the cause, he said.

    One of the album tracks, True Colors of Autism, is currently being considered by FEMHF for presentation and endorsement as one of the official United Nations’ World Autism Day songs, Effah said, adding that the band is also scheduled to perform live at the inaugural Harmony for Autism Music Charity Concert on April 2, alongside other artistes.

    In the build-up to the global awareness event, he disclosed that Ferdy’s Band plans to embark on a one-month musical tour across the six geo-political regions of Nigeria prior to April 2, 2026.

    The tour will engage autism centres, public institutions, communities and stakeholders, while raising public awareness about the newly released album and the forthcoming charity concert, he said.

    Ferdy’s Band is led by multi-instrumentalist autistic musician Ferdinand Effah, supported by his siblings and non-autistic band members.

    Founded on Ferdinand Effah’s personal experience with ASD, Ferdy’s Band uses music as an advocacy driver, a therapeutic tool and a developmental pathway, FEMHF noted.

    “While the band is logically managed by the Foundation’s principal music therapist, Ferdinand Effah formally leads the group as part of his therapeutic growth and leadership development.

    “Ferdy’s Band is an emerging autism awareness voice that seeks to promote acceptance for autistic people and their families through the vigor of music as a uniting social force, bringing the larger society under one roof with the autism community in Nigeria.

    “It is one of the strategic cardinal advocacy channels of FEMHF and also the first progeny introduced by the Foundation before Autism Voice TV, to facilitate a more impactful awareness and acceptance campaign”, Effah said.

    He disclosed that the band is composed of Ferdinand himself, alongside a group of talented non-autistic individuals committed to creating an enabling, all-inclusive society through music.

    Band leader Ferdinand Effah, who is not often verbally inclined, expressed his journey through music, saying, “Lacking the social and communication skills to interact, mingle, and belong is the horrible world we find ourselves as autistic people.

    “However, with the passion I have developed for music as a source of inspiration to others in such similar circumstance, I am confident of a new world for Autism.

    “This is even though we cannot change the beginning, but as long as we can always shape the future for ourselves by the progressions we can continue to make in each day of our lives as autistic individuals”.

    Sharing their experiences, the band’s music therapist said, “It was a different world from ours. It was also a different approach and mind set dealing with the prospect of bringing out the hidden potential and talent of Ferdinand Effah in music. The cornerstone of it all is patience, commitment, and hard work”.

    The music coach added that having been involved with Ferdinand as an autistic child, he could strongly testify that music helps to develop better social skills and generate confidence in him.

    “While he plays his drum, you see that much confidence; and while he listens to the sound of violin he sits like the noble class,” he said.

    Ferdinand’s siblings, Miriam and Gladys Effah, who are also members of the band, said life with him required constant understanding and adjustment.

    “Being siblings to Ferdinand was not that easy for us. We had to struggle each day at the church, at the school, at every social event, and around the neighborhood to consistently create an atmosphere of friendship that can always accommodate his nature as an autistic person.

    “However, his passion for music and our compassionate involvement have changed the narrative. While he plays his drum, we support with the piano and violin. It is amazing to see how perceptions are beginning to change around him”, they said.

    Effah urged collective action, stressing that even though the majority of people are not affected by autism, they should let their voices count in promoting awareness and acceptance.

    “Our Drumming for autism acceptance and inclusion therefore demands a solemn call on us all as parents, siblings, immediate and extended families, neighbours, friends, employers and society at large to never leave anyone behind based on any form of disability,” the FEMHF president said.

  • FG signs PPP deal to upgrade Enugu Airport

    FG signs PPP deal to upgrade Enugu Airport

    The Federal Government has signed a concession agreement for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu State, a move aimed at bringing in private sector investment to improve the airport and strengthen economic activities in the South East.

    The Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission described the agreement as an important step in the government’s plan to use Public-Private Partnerships to upgrade key national infrastructure and attract more business and travel to the region.

    In a statement, the commission said the agreement was signed by the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria on behalf of the Federal Government, while Aero Alliance Limited signed as the private company taking over the operation of the airport under the concession.

    “The PPP agreement, signed by the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria on behalf of the Federal Government and the concessionaire, Aero Alliance Limited, underscores the growing momentum of PPPs as a central pillar of infrastructure delivery under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement said.

    The ICRC explained that the deal followed all required government procedures. It said the process included checking and approving the business plans, carrying out detailed background checks, holding negotiations, getting approval from the Federal Executive Council and having the agreement reviewed by the Federal Ministry of Justice before it was finally signed, in line with the law that set up the commission.

    Speaking on the development, the Director General of ICRC, Dr Jobson Oseodion Ewalefoh, said the signing shows that Nigeria is ready to allow more private companies to take part in building and managing public infrastructure. He said the deal marks the end of the negotiation stage and opens the way for full work to begin.

    “This concession will strengthen the airport’s role as a vital gateway for the Southeast States by enhancing connectivity and providing essential links to domestic and international destinations—supporting tourism, trade and broader economic growth across the region,” he said.

    Ewalefoh added that the agreement shows the Federal Government’s determination to attract private funding, improve services and make sure important national assets are managed in a way that will last for many years.

    He said the Enugu airport project fits into the commission’s wider efforts to make partnership projects move faster and improve cooperation between government agencies so that development can reach more parts of the country.

    He also explained that the ICRC, as the agency in charge of regulating public-private partnerships, made sure the entire process followed the right rules, gave good value for money and helped build confidence for investors.

    Read Also: FG signs concession agreement for Enugu airport

    The ICRC boss praised the Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for what he described as strong efforts to position the state as a place for business and investment. He said leadership like this is important for delivering major development projects.

    He encouraged other state governments to follow the example of states such as Enugu, Ondo, Cross River and Lagos, which he said are using partnerships with private companies to attract investment, speed up development and create economic opportunities for their people.

    Ewalefoh also praised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, for his role in pushing reforms and encouraging private sector involvement in the aviation industry. 

    He commended the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and all partners involved in reaching this stage of the project.

    He said the ICRC will continue to support government ministries and agencies as work begins on the airport concession, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to improve infrastructure and grow the economy across the country.

  • NDIC, EFCC renew commitment to joint fight against financial crimes

    NDIC, EFCC renew commitment to joint fight against financial crimes

    The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration in combating financial crimes, with particular emphasis on asset recovery and the prosecution of individuals whose actions undermine the stability of Nigeria’s banking system.

    The NDIC restated its resolve to strengthen cooperation with the anti-graft agency to enhance the recovery of assets and debts from failed banks, as well as to support investigations and prosecutions linked to bank failures.

    The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the NDIC, Thompson Oludare Sunday, made this known during a courtesy visit by the Corporation’s management team to the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Olanipekun Olukoyede, at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

    In a statement issued on Sunday by the NDIC’s Head of Communication and Public Affairs, Hawwau Gambo, Sunday said robust partnership with the EFCC is critical to the effective liquidation of failed banks, a process that involves asset realisation and debt recovery, with proceeds used to settle uninsured deposits.

    He noted that cases of asset stripping and concealment require coordinated efforts, particularly in asset tracing, recovery and enforcement, adding that the EFCC’s expertise is vital in achieving these objectives.

    Sunday also identified banking fraud investigations and the prosecution of individuals whose actions contribute to bank collapses as key areas where both institutions can further strengthen their cooperation.

    He stressed that NDIC plays a vital role in maintaining financial system stability through the execution of its four statutory mandates in deposit guarantee, bank supervision, distress resolution and bank liquidation.

    According to him, the Corporation’s overarching goal is to safeguard depositors’ funds, ensure prompt compensation when banks fail, and sustain public confidence in the financial system.

    He also observed that both institutions share common values of integrity, professionalism and accountability, describing the visit as a step towards reinforcing institutional partnership, especially in areas where EFCC’s investigative and prosecutorial capacity is essential to NDIC’s mandate.

    “We aim to further strengthen our collaboration, deepen institutional synergy and explore additional avenues for mutual support in the pursuit of national financial system stability. 

    “The EFCC has been our partner and we want this to continue. We look forward to an expanded and more impactful partnership between our two esteemed institutions.

    “Your experience has and will continue to greatly enhance our recovery efforts.  Additionally, we have that strategic responsibility for prosecuting individuals whose actions contribute to the failure of banks. We therefore seek closer collaboration with the Commission in this critical area.”

    Read Also: Delta police bust kidnapping syndicate, nab 10 suspects

    Responding, the EFCC boss, Olukoyede, reiterated the Commission’s commitment to its longstanding working relationship with the NDIC in tackling financial crimes within the banking sector.

    He acknowledged the history of cooperation between the two agencies, particularly in investigations and capacity development related to banking operations.

    Olukoyede also briefed the delegation on key departments within the EFCC, including the Bank Fraud Section, which handles matters related to the NDIC.

    He encouraged the Corporation to submit any outstanding cases for prompt assessment, noting that this would enhance tracking, accountability and case resolution.

    The EFCC Chairman further highlighted the role of the Commission’s Fraud Risk Assessment and Control Department, which focuses on proactive monitoring, compliance, sound risk management and internal controls in both public and private sector institutions.

    He described these efforts as part of the EFCC’s broader mandate to protect and strengthen the Nigerian economy.

    Olukoyede assured the NDIC of the EFCC’s continued support in deepening institutional synergy to combat financial crimes, improve asset recovery, and ensure that offenders who undermine the banking sector are brought to justice.