The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • 93 traffickers jailed, 120 children rescued in 2025, says NAPTIP

    93 traffickers jailed, 120 children rescued in 2025, says NAPTIP

    The Director General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Binta Bello, has disclosed that the Agency secured the conviction of 93 human traffickers and rescued 120 trafficked children in 2025.

    She also revealed that the agency intercepted over 2500 potential victims of human trafficking who were deceived, recruited, and trafficked for various forms of exploitation within and outside Nigeria.

    The DG, in a statement by the Agency’s National Press Officer, Vincent Adekoye, stated this while reviewing the Agency’s activities in the previous year.

    She said NAPTIP will review its overall counter trafficking strategies and policies with a view to enhancing effective operations and tightening the noose on human traffickers across the country in 2026.

    She stated, “The year 2025 was unpleasant for human traffickers in the country. We outsmarted the traffickers and their antics, and this resulted in the impressive number of convictions we recorded. The Agency recorded 93 convictions. This is remarkable, bearing in mind what it takes to prosecute and convict one trafficker.

    “In 2025, NAPTIP went after a number of the so called high profiled trafficker, while scores of them were smoked out of their hiding, arrested, prosecuted, and convicted, others are still under close watch. Among the high-profile traffickers were some popular operators of orphanages and care homes across the country whose alleged nefarious activities were busted, and over 120 suspected trafficked children were rescued.

    Read Also: NAPTIP tackles human trafficking with multi-agency fronts

    “In the same vein, NAPTIP, in collaboration with international partners and stakeholders, rescued over 370 Nigerian victims of human trafficking from Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and others”.

    On measures put in place to continue the fight against trafficking, Bello stated: “As unpleasant as the year 2025 was for the traffickers, I wish to point out that a real hard time awaits them in the year 2026. We have deliberately scaled up our operations to address the evolving challenges and trends. Specifically, we shall increase our collaboration and cooperation with other sister Law Enforcement Agencies, Development Partners, Civil Society Organizations, and other categories of Stakeholders.

    “We shall also increase synergy with actors within the three levels of Government, as well as other non- State Actors, including the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), to enhance grassroots surveillance and detection of human trafficking.

    “We shall also seek improved relationships and support from the Legislative arm through the National and State Assemblies, the Executive through the State Governors and their spouses, and the Judiciary.

    “While we sincerely appreciate the support of all in the year 2025, we assure that NAPTIP shall continue to go after the human traffickers and make 2026 unbearable for them to operate in Nigeria through awareness and enlightenment programmes across Nigeria, with special attention on the unreached locations and villages to reduce their vulnerability and build their resistance to the antics of the traffickers and prosecution.

    “Just a few days into the year 2026, we secured the conviction of three human traffickers, and more will end up in jail unless they desist from their unlawful acts and criminality”.

  • NCC opens spectrum bands to support Tinubu’s 1 trillion dollar economy

    NCC opens spectrum bands to support Tinubu’s 1 trillion dollar economy

    The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has commenced consultative engagements with critical stakeholders to open up new spectrum bands in support of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for a trillion-dollar digital economy.

    The NCC’s engagements/presentations are on the development of the Spectrum Roadmap 2026–2030, the guidelines for opening the lower 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi 6, and the guidelines for opening the 60 GHz license-exempt band for multi-gigabit wireless systems.

    According to the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the NCC, Dr Aminu Wada Maida, the demand for spectrum is not only rising in the telecommunications industry, but its availability has also become imperative for Nigeria’s accelerated growth and economic expansion.

    Addressing participants on Monday during the opening ceremony of the Consultative Forum at the Digital Economy Complex, Mbora, Abuja, Dr Maida said the Forum would create avenues for robust deliberations that would shape Nigeria’s digital future. Dr Maida was represented by the Head of Spectrum Administration, Engr Atiku Lawal at the event.

    Dr Maida said the frameworks contained in the presentations reflected the commitment of the NCC towards building a communications ecosystem that is inclusive, innovative, resilient, and future-ready.

    He therefore encouraged participants and stakeholders to make critical inputs and contributions that would align with the vision of the present leadership for a robust economy.

    He said, “At the heart of our sector lies an essential national resource: spectrum. Spectrum may be invisible, yet it is indispensable. It powers the connectivity behind our mobile phones, our broadband connections, our satellite services, emergency communications, financial platforms, and smart technologies.

    Read Also: NCC hires PwC to study competition level in telecom sector

    “Behind every video call, every digital transaction, every online classroom, and every connected device in Nigeria, there is a spectrum at work.

    “But the spectrum is also finite. Demand for it is rising rapidly, driven by data-intensive applications, cloud services, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and the expanding digital needs of our economy.

    “These innovations require more spectrum, smarter planning, and more flexible regulatory approaches.”

    The NCC boss said the Spectrum Roadmap 2026 to 2030 was developed to ensure faster speeds, wider coverage, better service quality, stronger innovation, and greater inclusion, assuring that more investments would be attracted to the economy with the development.

    He added that by opening the bands, the NCC was preparing the country “for the data demands of tomorrow—not just on mobile networks, but across homes, campuses, businesses, healthcare facilities, and public spaces.”

    In his keynote address, the Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, of the NCC, Abraham Oshadami, said the management of spectrum requires transparency, prudence, and collaboration.

    “The way we plan, assign, and regulate spectrum will determine our nation’s ability to achieve our target, stimulate innovation, and strengthen global competitiveness”, Engr Oshadami said.

    Oshadami, who was represented by Engr Maigana Gidado, the Head of Fixed Networks and Converged Services in NCC, noted that Nigeria would continue to make meaningful progress in mobile broadband penetration, 5G rollout, and improvement in quality of service following the new openings and opportunities in the telecommunications ecosystem. 

  • Super Eagles rank among Africa’s top three after AFCON exploits

    Super Eagles rank among Africa’s top three after AFCON exploits

    Nigeria’s Super Eagles have climbed to third place in Africa but retained 38th position globally in the latest FIFA Men’s World Rankings released on Monday.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Eagles moved up from fifth to third in Africa after an impressive performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, where they finished third overall.

    Nigeria now ranks behind AFCON finalists Senegal and Morocco, who are placed 19th and 11th respectively in the global standings.

    In spite of the continental rise, Nigeria remained 38th worldwide in the January 2026 FIFA rankings, reflecting stability rather than global progress.

    Algeria and Egypt occupy fourth and fifth places in Africa, while DR Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, South Africa, Mali and Tunisia complete the continent’s top 10.

    Morocco retained Africa’s highest-ranked side globally, with Senegal second, followed by Algeria, Egypt and Nigeria in the continental pecking order.

    Read Also: AFCON brilliance lifts Super Eagles to 26th in FIFA ranking

    Other African teams in the top 10 include Tunisia, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, DR Congo and Cameroon, all ranked between 41st and 57th globally.

    Globally, Spain retained top spot, followed by Argentina and France, while England, Brazil, Portugal, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and Croatia complete the top 10.

    NAN also reports that Nigeria’s rise in Africa reflects a strong AFCON showing, including a 4-2 victory over Egypt in the third-place match on Saturday.

    The Eagles won six of seven matches, beating Tunisia and Algeria, but lost the semi-final to hosts Morocco on penalties.

    However, failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup may negatively affect Nigeria’s global ranking in future releases.

    (NAN)

  • Fela invented rap music – Seun Kuti

    Fela invented rap music – Seun Kuti

    Afrobeat singer Seun Kuti has asserted that his late father, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, the iconic pioneer of Afrobeat, essentially invented rap music as well.

    During an appearance on the Hits Don’t Lie podcast, Seun boldly declared that Fela was the very first person to rap.

    He pointed specifically to the track “Authority Stealing,” where Fela delivered rhythmic, spoken-word-style verses with a political edge long before the genre even had a name.

    Kuti emphasised that at the time of the recording, around the mid-1970s, no one realised this delivery style would later become known as rap.

    “Fela was the first person to rap. He did a bit of rapping on the album ‘Authority Stealing.’ When he did it, we didn’t know it was going to be called ‘Rap,” he said.

  • Army debunks report of planned mutiny, reaffirms commitment to soldiers’ welfare

    Army debunks report of planned mutiny, reaffirms commitment to soldiers’ welfare

    The Nigerian Army has dismissed claims by an online publication alleging that soldiers are threatening mutiny over salaries and allowances.

    It described such a claim as “false, misleading and deliberately sensational”, designed to undermine public confidence and national security.

    In a statement issued on Monday, January 19, by its spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the Nigerian Army stated that at no time has there been any threat of mutiny within the Army.

    According to the statement, mutiny is a grave offence under military law and alien to the ethos, discipline and professionalism of Nigerian Army personnel, “who remain loyal to the country’s Constitution and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.”

    It said that, to demonstrate the mischievous nature of the report, the online publication relied solely on anonymous, unverifiable claims circulated through non-official channels.

    “Such narratives do not represent the views, conduct or disposition of officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, who are trained to channel grievances through established military procedures rather than public platforms,” the statement said.

    It stated that contrary to claims of neglect by the online publication, the Federal Government under the present administration has “consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the Armed Forces”, particularly in the face of evolving security challenges.

    According to the statement, to demonstrate that troops’ welfare is a top priority on his agenda, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, upon assuming office, initiated positive engagements with the appropriate authorities on troops’ welfare, which it noted were already yielding positive results.

    It explained that promotion increments are only one component of military remuneration and should not be misrepresented as total earnings, adding that military pay comprises consolidated salaries, rank-based allowances, operational allowances, field and hardship allowances, and other entitlements, which vary by deployment, qualification, and responsibilities.

    The statement emphasized that Issues relating to allowances are continuously reviewed within approved government frameworks.

    It noted that the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Nigeria and relevant government authorities, will continue to implement structured welfare reforms, including periodic salary reviews, enhanced operational allowances, improved accommodation, medical care, and insurance packages for troops and their families.

    The military high command reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army remains a “cohesive, disciplined and professional force” that is fully focused on its constitutional mandate of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and supporting internal security operations.

    “Attempts to portray the institution as unstable or lawless are not only irresponsible but also detrimental to national security,” the Army said.

  • Strengthening the bedrock: Why increased capital requirements are essential for a resilient economy

    Strengthening the bedrock: Why increased capital requirements are essential for a resilient economy

    By Bode Olusola

    The global financial landscape is undergoing a profound transformation.

    From the rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in trading to the increasing complexity of cross-border financial flows, the risks facing our markets have evolved.

    As the apex regulator of the capital market, the primary mandate of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Nigeria, is to ensure stability, protect investors, and facilitate capital formation.

    To achieve these goals in an era of heightened volatility, the Commission has recently revised the Minimum Capital Requirements (MCR) for all Capital Market Operators (CMOs).

    This decision is not merely a technical adjustment; it is a strategic imperative designed to build a formidable, resilient market capable of anchoring a strong and sustainable economy.

    1. Enhancing risk absorption and financial soundness

    At its core, capital serves as a ‘safety buffer’ in times of economic distress or sudden market corrections. Well-capitalised firms can absorb losses without collapsing or defaulting on their obligations to clients.

    The previous capital thresholds, many of which had remained unchanged for a decade, were no longer commensurate with the current volume of transactions and the sophisticated risk profiles of modern market activities.

    By raising requirements—for instance, increasing the capital for Issuing Houses (Underwriting) from N200 million to N7 billion—we are ensuring that firms have the “deep pockets” necessary to survive systemic shocks.

    2. Safeguarding investor protection and public trust

    Public confidence is the “oxygen” of any capital market.

    When a market operator fails due to insolvency, it doesn’t just affect one firm; it erodes the trust of thousands of retail and institutional investors.

    Higher capital requirements act as a natural filter, ensuring that only serious, well-resourced entities operate in the market.

    This protects investors in two ways:

    * Operational Resilience: Firms with more capital can invest in robust technology and cybersecurity, reducing the risk of fraud and system failures.

    * Accountability: Shareholders with significant capital at stake are more incentivized to demand rigorous internal controls and ethical governance, aligning the interests of the operator with those of the investing public.

    3. Scaling for global competitiveness

    A fragmented market with too many “fringe players” lacks the depth to attract large-scale international investments.

    The increase in MCR is expected to trigger a wave of voluntary mergers and acquisitions.

    Consolidation will create larger, more formidable entities with the capacity to:

    * Underwrite massive infrastructure projects and sovereign bonds.

    * Deploy cutting-edge fintech solutions to reach the unbanked.

    * Compete effectively with global investment banks in the regional and international space.

    4. Aligning with macroeconomic aspirations

    A strong economy requires a capital market that can efficiently mobilise long-term savings for productive investments. Whether it is financing the “Green Transition” or supporting the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), the market needs intermediaries who are financially sound.

    The new requirements ensure that CMOs are not just “surviving” but are active catalysts for economic growth. By ensuring that our intermediaries are strong, we ensure that the transmission mechanism of capital from savers to borrowers remains uninterrupted, even during global downturns.

    The path forward: A call for compliance

    The Commission has set a deadline of June 30, 2027, for all affected entities to meet these new standards.

    We understand that this transition requires significant effort, but the long-term benefits—a stable, liquid, and world-class market—far outweigh the short-term pains of recapitalisation.

    We remain committed to providing a supportive regulatory environment throughout this transition.

    Together, we are building a market that is not only larger but also safer, more efficient, and ready to power our nation’s economic future.

    *Olusola, a financial analyst and investment adviser, writes from Lagos.

  • NNPP disowns planned protest against INEC

    NNPP disowns planned protest against INEC

    The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has dissociated itself from a planned protest against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) scheduled for Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

    In a statement issued on Monday by its National Secretariat in Abuja, the party said reports linking it to the planned demonstration at INEC offices in Abuja and across the states were false.

    The statement was signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the NNPP, Bamofin Ladipo Johnson.

    According to the NNPP, the protest was being organised by an “illegal body” falsely claiming to act on behalf of the party.

    It said the individuals behind the planned action are not members of the NNPP, citing a judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja.

    The party referred to Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1354/2024, decided on April 18, 2024, in which Justice Emeka Nwite affirmed that the group had ceased to be members of the NNPP following their expulsion by the party’s appropriate organs.

    The NNPP said the individuals had not appealed the judgment but were instead engaged in what it described as “forum shopping” in search of court orders without legal basis.

    “They go to the courts hiding the facts of the matter, and once the courts hear the correct story, they will discard them,” the statement said.

    The party reiterated that it is not involved in any protest against INEC and described those behind the planned demonstration as impostors.

    It also urged its members nationwide to remain calm and not be provoked, saying the alleged actions were aimed at distracting the party from its objectives.

  • 5 Best Recommended itel Power Banks to Use: Strong, Durable, and Always Ready

    5 Best Recommended itel Power Banks to Use: Strong, Durable, and Always Ready

    There is no gainsaying the fact that, your phone or tablet running out of battery at the wrong moment can feel like a mini disaster. Imagine rushing to an important meeting, traveling for a flight, or even capturing memories at a friend’s wedding only to see your device shutting down. This is why having a reliable power bank is no longer optional, it’s essential. itel has solidified its position as a leader in mobile accessories with power banks that are fast, durable, and perfectly suited for every lifestyle. Whether you are constantly on the move or someone who likes to be prepared for emergencies, there is an itel power bank designed to keep you fully charged whenever you need it.

    PowerEasy 20000mAh – Your Everyday Companion

    The PowerEasy 20000mAh power bank is ideal for those who are always on the go. With its built-in Lightning and Type-C cables, you can forget the hassle of carrying extra cords. The 22W fast-charging feature ensures your devices charge quickly, making it perfect for commuters, students, and professionals who rely heavily on their phones. Imagine sitting in a traffic jam or waiting in a long line at the airport with your battery low, the PowerEasy jumps in to save your day. Its Type-C input and output also mean it is compatible with almost any modern device. This is a strong, durable, and budget-friendly power bank recommended for everyday use.

    PowerPulse 1 Turbo 60000mAh – Just Fast, Fully Powered

    For anyone who needs power that can last days without worrying about recharging, the PowerPulse 1 Turbo 60000 mAh is unmatched. With 65W fast charging, it not only powers your phone in record time but can also charge laptops, tablets, and multiple devices simultaneously. Its multi-port design makes it ideal for families, group trips, or work environments where several devices need charging at once. Think about a weekend camping trip or a home during frequent power outages. This power bank becomes your reliable home and outdoor backup, making it one of the most popular and powerful options of 2026.

    Powerbank Star 200 – One Charge That Lasts

    The Powerbank Star 200 offers a 20000mAh capacity that can provide a full charge lasting up to three days of average smartphone use. Safety is a priority with ten security protections, ensuring that both your devices and personal safety are safeguarded. It also comes with LED lighting, making it useful in unexpected situations such as blackouts or outdoor adventures at night. Imagine being at a friend’s late-night outdoor gathering, and your phone is your only camera or guide. With the Star200, you are never left powerless. This is a strong, durable, and highly recommended power bank for practical everyday use.

    PowerEasy 1 MagSnap 10C – Magnetic Pocket Power

    If portability and innovation are important to you, the PowerEasy 1 MagSnap 10C is a perfect choice. This magnetic 10000mAh power bank comes with 22.5W fast charging, a built-in cable, and a kickstand that unlocks multiple ways to use your device while charging. Its 12N strong magnets make attaching it to your phone effortless, while the PowerAI chip ensures intelligent power management. The smart display provides one-touch access to battery information, making it extremely convenient for busy professionals or students. Whether you are taking photos, attending meetings, or traveling light, the MagSnap 10C is fast, reliable, and durable, making it a popular choice in 2026.

    PowerPulse 20000mAh 12W – Simple, Strong, and Compatible

    For those who need a straightforward yet powerful solution, the PowerPulse 20000mAh 12W is a reliable companion. It comes with three ports including two USB-A and a Type-C, allowing multiple devices to charge simultaneously. The LED light is perfect for nighttime use, while the PowerAI technology delivers fast charging and broad compatibility with different devices. This power bank is easy to carry, budget-friendly, and ideal for students, professionals, or travelers who want a durable and efficient power solution that works anywhere.

    Why itel Power Banks Are the Best Choice.

    Itel power banks are more than just devices that charge your phone. They represent freedom, reliability, and preparedness. From the magnetic convenience of the MagSnap 10C to the multi-device powerhouse PowerPulse 1 Turbo, there is an itel power bank for everyone. They are designed to be fast, durable, strong, and budget-friendly, making them highly recommended for anyone who values staying connected in every moment of life. itel power banks are the ultimate POWER MASTER companions that ensure you are always ready, always charged, and always unstoppable.

  • JUST IN: Sleepy driver rams into another vehicle on Third Mainland Bridge

    JUST IN: Sleepy driver rams into another vehicle on Third Mainland Bridge

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and officers of the Nigeria Police Force have evacuated two vehicles involved in a collision at the Third Mainland Bridge at Adeniji Intersection area of Lagos State.

    The Nation learnt that a yet-to-be-identified driver of a Lexus jeep had fallen asleep while driving, leading to loss of control and eventual collision with another vehicle early Monday, January 19.

    The Lexus Jeep had a number plate RBC-516EA, colliding with the other vehicle with number plate LND-327EH, and the Toyota RAV4 – BDG400FA.

    A video of the incident, sighted by our correspondent, showed emergency responders making efforts to control vehicular movements and also to remove the affected vehicles from the highway.

    Read Also: Police deploy patrols, gadgets to secure Third Mainland Bridge

    LASTMA on its verified X page formerly Twitter said, “A driver of a Lexus jeep was fast asleep while driving and ran into another vehicle on the Third mainland bridge at Adeniji Intersection.

    “Cones have been well placed behind for security measures, with ongoing efforts to evacuate both vehicles from the location. This is currently affecting traffic movement from Adekunle inward the Island.”

  • Court adjourns Senator Anyanwu’s N550m defamation suit against Ohakim to March 17

    Court adjourns Senator Anyanwu’s N550m defamation suit against Ohakim to March 17

    A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Jabi, Abuja, has adjourned further hearing in the N550million defamation suit filed by Senator Chris Anyanwu against a former governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim, till March 17.

    Hearing in the case was to resume on Monday, but was aborted owing to the absence of the judge, Justice M.I. Sani, who was said to be indisposed.

    Senator Anyanwu sued Ohakim over comments he allegedly made in an interview published in the January 12 edition of The Nation newspapers, which the Senator claims were defamatory.

    The claimant is demanding ₦550 million in damages, alongside a public apology to be published in two national newspapers, including The Nation newspapers.

    Upon the filing of the suit, The Nation newspaper, which was listed as the second defendant, issued a full retraction and public apology to Senator Anyanwu on 1 June 2025, following which the claimant discontinued the newspaper and had its name struck out.

    Read Also: Court opens trial in Senator Anyanwu’s N550m defamation suit against Ohakim

    Monday’s adjournment became the fourth since the hearing commenced in the case on October 13, 2025.

    Only one out of the five witnesses listed by Senator Anyanwu has so far commenced her testimony.

    Reacting to the latest adjournment, Senator Anyanwu expressed sympathy for the judge’s health.

    She expressed hope for a swift progression of the case upon the judge’s return.