The Nation Newspaper

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  • 2027: Kwara South demands power shift

    2027: Kwara South demands power shift

    Monarchs and leaders of Igbomina ethnic stock have united in clamouring for the shift of Kwara South senatorial seat in 2027 elections to their side.

    The agitation, they argued is borne out of political equity, fairness and justice

    The demand was central to a summit convened by the apex socio-cultural organization, Omo Ibile Igbomina, themed: ‘Igbomina lokan for Kwara South Senate 2027.’

    The gathering brought together royal fathers, political leaders, religious leaders, and the council of elders.

    Speaking on behalf of the entire monarchs of Kwara South, Olomu of Omu-Aran Oba Abdulraheem Oladele Adeoti urged aspirants of all political parties to support any of them that emerge as the senatorial candidate.

    Oba Adeoti added that was the only way the desire of the Igbominas could be achieved.

    He added that “it is the turn of Igbomina as our brothers and sisters in Ekiti and Ibolo axis have tasted the power for 12 years each.

    “You know, we monarchs are not politicians, any of you that comes to us for blessing, we will not hesitate to do so.”

    The meeting proceeded under strict guidelines to ensure constructive dialogue, including a ban on partisan campaigns and abusive language, signaling a strategic and unified push to translate the bloc’s demographic strength into political representation.

    In his opening address, Chairman of the Igbomina Council of Elders, Chief Solomon Olaoye clarified the group’s apolitical nature stressing the necessity of political engagement.

    “Omo Ibile Igbomina does not discourage its members from seeking political advantage through any political party of their choice,” he stated, framing the summit as a solution to a “brewing political problem.”

    A detailed position paper presented at the event laid out a compelling case based on historical data. It revealed a stark imbalance in senatorial representation since 1999 among Kwara South’s three blocs: Igbomina, Ibolo, and Ekiti, whilst being the bloc with largest landmass and constituting a significant population and voters base.

    Read Also: Kwara begins disbursement of N40,000 each to 32,420 female pupils

    The data shows that by 2027, the Ibolo and Ekiti blocs would have each held the seat for 12 years. The Igbomina bloc, in contrast, has held it for only one term of four years (1999-2003). This means the Igbomina people will have been excluded from the Senate for 24 consecutive years.

    The summit argued that zoning the 2027 ticket to Igbomina is a matter of “rotational equity,” essential for correcting a historical disparity and fostering a unified political front in Kwara State.

    The document concluded with a firm declaration: “Enough is Enough. Let 2027 be the year we champion equity… It is the right thing to do for justice, and the smart thing to do for a united and prosperous Kwara South.”

  • $46bn reserves, falling inflation signal CBN policy impact

    $46bn reserves, falling inflation signal CBN policy impact

    Nigeria’s inflation rate continues to cool, slipping to 16.05 per cent in October from 18.02 per cent in September 2025 — a trend economists say reflects the impact of sustained monetary policy easing and far-reaching reforms by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The easing cycle has strengthened FX stability, boosted foreign reserves to $46 billion, and reinforced confidence in the macroeconomic environment. CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso has consistently highlighted how recent policy decisions have made the naira more competitive and improved Nigeria’s investment climate for global investors, reports Assistant Editor COLLINS NWEZE

    The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says ongoing policy easing and structural reforms are steadily filtering into the wider economy, helping to stabilise the naira, ease lending rates, and support the continued moderation of inflation. According to the bank, its recent monetary policy actions reflect a deliberate strategy to restore macroeconomic stability after years of fiscal and external pressures. It added that lower lending rates are emerging as one of the most visible outcomes of its policy trajectory, underscoring the leadership’s commitment to strengthening the financial system.

    The CBN noted that close alignment between fiscal and monetary policies has become indispensable at a time when technological innovation and digital finance are rapidly transforming the financial landscape. This coordination, it said, has enhanced the effectiveness of monetary tools and improved the transmission of policy decisions across sectors. At its 302nd meeting held on September 22 and 23, 2025, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) trimmed the benchmark interest rate by 50 basis points — from 27.5 per cent to 27 per cent. The move, the first rate cut since the tightening cycle began, signals a shift in policy direction as inflationary pressures begin to ease. The committee said the decision balances the need to support growth while maintaining stability in the foreign exchange market.

    Early data appears to validate this stance. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), in its October 2025 Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, revealed that inflation fell to 16.05 per cent from 18.02 per cent in September. It added that on a year-on-year basis, the October 2025 headline inflation rate was 17.82 per cent lower than the 33.88 per cent recorded in October 2024 — a significant moderation despite differences in the CPI base year.

     However, the NBS noted some upward movement on a month-on-month basis. The October 2025 inflation rate stood at 0.93 per cent, slightly higher than the 0.72 per cent recorded in September. This indicates that although prices continued to rise, the pace of increase was modest and broadly consistent with overall disinflation trends observed in the past months. Beyond inflation, other indicators are also pointing in a positive direction. The gradual strengthening of the naira, coupled with rising foreign reserves, suggests an improving economic outlook. These gains have contributed to renewed investor confidence and better stability in the foreign exchange (FX) markets.

    Reflecting this trend, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected a 3.9 per cent growth rate for Nigeria in 2025, citing ongoing reforms, FX market improvements, and a stabilising macroeconomic environment. The CBN attributes much of the progress to the FX reforms introduced under the leadership of Governor Olayemi Cardoso, as well as new Federal Government policies targeting improved local production, reduced forex demand pressures, and lower domestic prices. Looking ahead, analysts say sustaining these gains will require the CBN to maintain its FX reforms while fiscal authorities intensify efforts to boost foreign exchange earnings, particularly from gas, oil, and non-oil exports.

    Exchange rate positions

     The naira has achieved a notable milestone, strengthening by 3.5 per cent against the U.S. dollar over the past ten months, reaching N1,450/$ at the parallel market. This recovery, though modest, signals a crucial shift, driven by coordinated adjustments to fiscal and monetary policies by the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

    The start of the year saw the naira trading at around N1,555/$. However, a brief period of instability saw the rate slip to a high of N1,597/$ by the end of April. The subsequent six months were marked by intense policy intervention. The naira briefly firmed up at N1,475/$ in October 2025 at the official market before settling at N1,500/$ at the parallel market yesterday, marking a 3.5 per cent gain from the January starting point.

    CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso says naira is turning the corner, and becoming more competitive in the international markets. He said Nigeria’s economy has been fully restructured and is now resilient, with huge buffers against global risks.

    He spoke during the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four (G-24) press briefing at the IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington DC, US. Cardoso, who is the leader of the Nigeria delegation at the meetings, said the naira has equally emerged as a competitive currency, with the economy witnessing positive trade balances and large businesses moving from imports to export of locally produced goods and commodities.

    According to him, the positive economic indicators have combined to create resilient and strong buffers, keeping the economy in great shapes. Speaking on the impact of the trade tariffs on the domestic economy, the CBN boss said the tariffs are less of problems for the country. “And for us again, oil is basically the only commodity that was so exposed to the tariffs, and the impact of that was relatively modest. We now have a more competitive currency with the results that, for once, we have a situation where we have a positive balance of trade surplus, and we expect it to be six per cent in GDP for some time.

    “So basically, what is happening is a complete restructuring of the economy, where we are encouraging people to go into domestic production, and, of course, discouraging imports. And I think we were very fortunate, because a lot of the things that were needed to have been done, we did them much earlier, and as a result of that, we’re able to create resilience and buffers against potential shocks,” he stated.

    What other stakeholders are saying

    The Director-General, the West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM) Dr. Baba Musa, has called on government to ensure that 3.9 per cent growth for Nigeria in 2025 translate to decent jobs, rising incomes, improved productivity, and broader social welfare. In his report presented at the recently concluded 2025 IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington DC, titled: “Nigeria’s Economic Outlook at a Turning Point”, he said as Nigeria moves further into 2025, Nigeria’s economic story is one of resilience, renewal, and strategic recalibration.

    Musa, who is also the President, Nigerian Economic Society, said Nigeria’s economic trajectory is increasingly encouraging with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projecting real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 3.9 per cent in 2025, up from 3.5 per cent in 2024, with further acceleration to 4.2 per cent in 2026.

    Musa said Nigeria in 2025 is at a critical inflection point, cautiously optimistic yet structurally fragile. “Gains in growth, inflation moderation, and investment confidence mark important progress, but the work is far from complete. To sustain the recovery, Nigeria must maintain macroeconomic stability, deepen structural reforms, and ensure that growth translates into tangible improvements for citizens. Achieving this requires collaboration among government, private sector, civil society, and development partners,” he said.

    According to him, by committing to policy consistency, human capital investment and inclusive growth, Nigeria can consolidate its recovery and emerge as a more competitive, resilient, and equitable economy in the years ahead. “Globally, economies are grappling with slowing growth, projected at 2.7% in 2025 by the IMF for advanced economies, and heightened geopolitical risks that affect trade and investment. Against this backdrop, Nigeria has demonstrated remarkable determination. Domestically, inflationary pressures, infrastructure deficits, and unemployment persist, yet they now represent policy frontiers rather than defining constraints,” he said.

    Musa said recent policy measures, ranging from fiscal consolidation to targeted monetary adjustments, have laid the groundwork for a sustainable growth trajectory. “The real test, however, lies not only in achieving stability but in ensuring that it translates into tangible socio-economic outcomes: decent jobs, rising incomes, improved productivity, and broader social welfare. If Nigeria deepens reforms, invests strategically in human capital, and leverages its structural advantages, the country can achieve not only recovery but inclusive and durable economic transformation,” he said.

    He said the growth for Nigeria is underpinned by stronger oil production following operational improvements and policy reforms in the petroleum sector. “Recovery in services, particularly telecommunications, financial services, and transport, reflecting resilient domestic demand. Improved agricultural output, thanks to favourable weather patterns and government support for mechanisation and inputs,” he said.

    He said the recent GDP rebasing has also given a more accurate reflection of the economy, capturing growth in high-potential sectors such as digital services, modular refining, and the creative industries. This expanded view highlights opportunities for job creation, innovation, and revenue generation that were previously underappreciated. According to him, inflation remains elevated but is gradually moderating.

    “Headline inflation declined to 18.02 per cent in September 2025, down from 20.12 per cent in August, reflecting improved food supply, seasonal harvests, and targeted interventions in the energy market. The Central Bank of Nigeria’s interest rate cut, the first since 2020, signals a nuanced policy shift: a deliberate effort to balance price stability with growth and employment objectives. This approach is consistent with modern macroeconomic management, where inflation targeting is tempered by the need to stimulate investment and production in key sectors,” he said.

    Read Also: CBN calls for stronger coordination to sustain economic recovery

    Speaking further, Musa said, “Investor sentiment is improving, illustrated by Shell’s approval of the HI Offshore Gas Project, expected to supply 350 million standard cubic feet of gas per day to Nigeria LNG. Economically, such projects deliver multiplier effects: they stimulate domestic suppliers, create high-skill and semi-skilled jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a reliable energy hub in Africa. They also enhance balance of payments stability, by promoting export-oriented production.”

    Moves to support economy

    The CBN under Cardoso is cultivating multiple FX sources to increase dollar inflows, boost dollar access to manufacturers and retail end users. From moves to improve diaspora remittances through new product development, the granting licenses to new International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs), implementing a willing buyer-willing seller FX model, and enabling timely access to naira liquidity for IMTOs, the apex bank has simplified dollar-inflow channels for authorized dealers and other players in the value chain. The move has led to substantial accretion to the gross FX reserves and supported the stability of the naira.

    Given that FX inflows to the economy are strategic in achieving monetary and fiscal policy stability, the CBN under Cardoso puts in a lot of efforts in attracting more inflows into the economy. Diaspora remittances to Nigeria, estimated at $23 billion annually, remain a reliable source of forex to the domestic economy. There are also other sources and policies that are being explored by the apex bank to keep dollar inflows coming.

  • Kanu: Twists and turns of a decade-long trial

    Kanu: Twists and turns of a decade-long trial

    The nearly 10-year trial of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, witnessed several dramatic twists, writes Assistant Editor ERIC IKHILAE.

    By his final pronouncement on November 20, Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja brought to a close the long-running terrorism trial of Kanu.

    The case, which began in 2015, was punctuated by repeated disruptions, withdrawals by judges, dramatic outbursts and unexpected legal manoeuvres, many of which contributed to its prolonged lifespan.

    After convicting him on all the counts, Justice Omotosho imposed life imprisonment on counts 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 (terrorism-related offences), 20 years imprisonment (no fine option) on Count 3 (membership of a proscribed terrorist group), and five years imprisonment (no fine option) on Count 7 (unlawful importation of a radio transmitter to further Radio Biafra broadcasts).

    The judge remarked that although the Terrorism Prevention Act under which Kanu was convicted prescribes the death penalty, he chose not to impose it “as a Christian” and due to the growing unpopularity of the death sentence globally.

    He cited an admonition from Matthew 23:22-23 on the virtues of mercy.

    Nonetheless, he insisted that Kanu showed no remorse for his “atrocities”.

    First judge withdraws

    Kanu was arrested by Department of State Services (DSS) operatives in Room 303 of the Essential Airport Hotel, Lagos, on October 14, 2015.

    He was moved to Abuja and first arraigned on November 23, 2015, before a Magistrate’s Court in Wuse Zone 2, with Shuaibu Usman presiding.

    Following the filing of a six-count charge, Kanu, alongside Benjamin Madubugwu and David Nwawuisi, was brought before Justice Ahmed Mohammed of the Federal High Court on December 23, 2015.

    At the mention of the case on December 23, 2015, Kanu requested to address the court before the charges were read.

    Granted permission, he announced that he had no confidence in the court’s ability to ensure justice.

    He said: “Based on information available to me, I am convinced that I will not receive a fair trial before this court…

    “I would rather remain in detention than subject myself to a trial that amounts to a perversion of justice.”

    Although prosecutor Mohammed Diri opposed his stance, Justice Mohammed agreed to withdraw from the case.

    “Justice is rooted in confidence,” he said, emphasising that a defendant had the right to raise such an objection.

    Second judge withdraws

    The case was reassigned to Justice John Tsoho, but on September 26, 2016, he also withdrew after Kanu’s lawyer, Chuks Muoma (SAN), requested that he step aside on grounds of alleged bias.

    Muoma claimed the judge acted in line with comments previously made by then-President Muhammadu Buhari about Kanu’s continued detention.

    Justice Tsoho denied bias but returned the case file to the Chief Judge, criticising the defence lawyer’s conduct as unprofessional.

    Third judge steps aside

    On September 24, 2024, Justice Binta Nyako, who had taken over the case, also returned the file to the Chief Judge after Kanu directly accused her of failing to obey the Supreme Court’s directives.

    Interrupting his lawyer, Kanu told the court: “My Lord, I have no confidence in this court anymore…

    “I ask you to recuse yourself because you did not abide by the Supreme Court’s decision.”

    Despite prosecutor Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) urging her to ignore the outburst, Justice Nyako recused herself.

    Journey to Supreme Court

    On December 15, 2023, the Supreme Court reversed the October 13, 2022 decision of the Court of Appeal barring the Federal Government from further prosecuting Kanu.

    A five-member panel of the apex court, led by Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, ordered that Kanu be tried on the surviving seven counts in the original 15-count amended charge on which he was re-arraigned before a Federal High Court in Abuja.

    Kanu, shortly after he was brought back from Kenya by the Federal Government on June 27, 2021, challenged the competence of the amended 15-count charge filed against him by the prosecution.

    Read Also: Nnamdi Kanu: Court faults reports of attempt on Justice Omotosho’s life

    In a ruling on April 8, 2022, Justice Nyako struck out eight out of the 15 counts, leaving seven.

    Rather than submitting to trial based on the surviving seven counts, Kanu challenged the April 8, 2022 ruling at the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

    He also queried the propriety of how he was brought back to the country from Kenya by the Nigerian government, alleging extraordinary rendition.

    The Court of Appeal, in its judgment on October 13, 2022, faulted the manner the Federal Government brought him back into the country.

    The Appeal Court quashed the remaining seven counts left in the 15-count charge, acquitted him and ordered his release from custody.

    The Appeal Court was of the view that the Federal Government violated the rules of engagement in the way and manner Kanu was arrested in Kenya and brought to Nigeria.

    The Court of Appeal added that the Federal Government breached international laws and resorted to self-help in its failure to file a formal extradition application against Kanu in Kenya, but chose to resort to unlawful abduction and rendition.

    Before the judgment could be executed, the Federal government applied to the Court of Appeal for a stay of execution pending the determination of its appeal against the judgment, an application the Court of Appeal granted.

    It subsequently appealed the judgment at the Supreme Court, with Kanu filing a cross-appeal.

    The Supreme Court’s decision

    In its judgment on December 15, 2023, the Supreme Court allowed the appeal and dismissed the cross-appeal by Kanu.

    It reversed the October 13, 2022 decision of the Court of Appeal discharging and acquitting Kanu and held that the Court of Appeal was wrong to have discharged and acquitted Kanu on the ground that the prosecution acted illegally in the manner the IPOB leader was brought back from Kenya.

    Attempt to force Justice Omotosho out

    After Justice Nyako’s recusal, Kanu attempted the same strategy on November 20, 2025, accusing Justice Omotosho of bias as the court prepared to deliver judgment.

    He shouted at the judge, prompting Justice Omotosho to briefly stand down proceedings before returning to deliver the ruling.

    Kanu filed a fresh motion seeking to halt proceedings pending the Court of Appeal’s determination of new issues he raised. He also sought bail.

    Justice Omotosho dismissed the applications and moved on to deliver judgment.

    Sacking of lawyers

    Kanu dismissed his legal teams on two occasions.

    The first was in 2023, after his lawyers, led by former Attorney-General of the Federation Kanu Agabi (SAN), publicly apologised on his behalf following a Supreme Court ruling.

    Kanu said he never authorised the apology.

    He sacked his legal team again on October 23, 2025, confirming in court that he had discharged about five Senior Advocates.

    After firing his lawyers, Kanu represented himself, filing processes in his own name despite repeated warnings from the court that he needed qualified legal representation.

    Lawyers turned consultants

    Some of his former lawyers, including Maxwell Opara, PAN Ejiofor, Aloy Ejimakor and Mandela Umegburu, continued to attend proceedings as “consultants,” offering him informal guidance.

    House of Reps member pleads allocutus

    When Kanu was convicted on all seven counts, he had already been removed from the courtroom due to unruly conduct and had no lawyer present to plead for leniency.

    Justice Omotosho invited Ejimakor, one of his consultants, but he declined, saying he lacked instructions.

    A House of Representatives member, Obi Aguocha, who said he represented Kanu’s constituency, stepped forward instead.

    He pleaded: “I appeal for clemency… The country is bleeding; we need peace.”

    He noted that Kanu had missed his family for years.

    Way forward

    Prominent Igbo leaders, political officeholders and legal experts have renewed calls for a political resolution to the case.

    Their messages, delivered separately, converged on one theme: a coordinated, diplomatic and high-level engagement with the Federal Government is now the most viable path to restoring peace in the Southeast.

    Strategy must replace showmanship, says Ejiofor

    Kanu’s former lawyer, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, urged Ndigbo to replace what he described as “theatrical showmanship” with a sober, well-structured strategy.

    He warned against emotional reactions and scattered interventions.

    Ejiofor said the moment required “a sharp distinction between sober strategy and theatrical showmanship,” adding that the case had grown too complex for “unguarded proclamations” and fragmented advocacy.

    According to him, the next phase must be driven by a select team of Igbo political leaders and globally recognised legal minds.

    He said: “It has become imperative that Igbo political heavyweights and legal minds of enviable global repute immediately swing into coordinated action.”

    Ejiofor insisted that before any legal step, including filing an appeal, “this combined political–legal taskforce must visit Mazi Nnamdi Kanu… to secure his explicit mandate and align on a unified strategy.”

    He warned that filing an appeal without political groundwork would amount to a process “dead on arrival, smothered under prejudice and procedural quicksand.”

    He appealed for calm within Igbo communities worldwide, saying: “All forms of online hostility, emotional eruptions, and counterproductive declarations must cease forthwith.”

    Despite current anxieties, Ejiofor reassured supporters that “all hope is not lost… with coordinated strategy and disciplined execution, we shall ultimately prevail.”

    Otti: high-level dialogue ongoing

    Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, also called for restraint while revealing that he had been pursuing a diplomatic resolution with the Federal Government since December 2023.

    The governor noted that the mishandling of the IPOB issue from inception contributed significantly to today’s crisis.

    Otti said: “I still strongly believe that the poor management of the IPOB issue at the incubation stage created the problem we have today… hence we cannot allow it to linger.”

    He confirmed that an agreed alternative-resolution framework already exists and will now intensify following the judgment.

    “I’m happy to inform you that I have activated and will continue to work on the already agreed strategy until his freedom is secured,” he said.

    Urging calm, he cautioned politicians against exploiting the situation: “I appeal to our people to refrain from utterances and actions capable of stoking fear… and to politicians playing petty politics with Kanu’s travails to jettison the idea.

    “I want to assure our people of my unwavering resolve and commitment to genuinely solving this problem with wisdom, high-level dialogue and diplomacy, with a view to ensuring that genuine peace returns to the Southeast.”

    Bianca advocates collective engagement

    Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who returned from an official assignment to the news, stressed the need for collective engagement by Igbo leaders rather than emotional reactions.

    “There comes a time… when there is need for calm. I therefore advise Ndigbo that such a period is now,” she stated.

    She warned against actions that could escalate the situation at home or abroad.

    Mrs. Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasised that the only realistic route out of the crisis lies in diplomatic engagement.

    “The most effective path toward resolution of this crisis is dialogue,” she said.

    She urged governors, lawmakers, traditional rulers and business leaders to “engage with government authorities collectively” and assured that prospects remain for a solution that “reduces national anxiety and societal trauma.”

    Kalu seeks political solution

    Former Abia State Governor, Senator Orji Uzor Kanu, also called for a political solution.

    “The problem of Nnamdi Kanu is what we need to solve via a political process.

    “I have been working with the Federal Government on how to solve this issue, and nobody should question the decision of Justice Omotosho,” he said.

    Kanu: trial, intrigues, sentence

    Obi: legal processes alone not enough

    Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, described the conviction as a moment for national introspection.

    According to him, Kanu’s arrest and trial reflected leadership failure and neglect of genuine grievances.

    “I have always maintained that Mazi Kanu should never have been arrested,” Obi said.

    He argued that inclusive dialogue, not coercion, could have prevented the escalation of tensions, adding: “The concerns Kanu raised were not unheard of… It only required wisdom, empathy, and a willingness to listen.”

    Obi urged the Federal Government to adopt political solutions commonly used worldwide in similar conflicts.

    “Nations resort to political settlements when legal processes alone cannot serve the broader interest of peace and stability,” he said.

    Calling for unity and reconciliation, he appealed to national leaders to intervene.

    “The Presidency, the Council of State and credible statesmen… should rise to the occasion for a lasting solution.”

    Kalu: political solution still possible

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, said despite Kanu’s conviction, a political solution to secure his release was still possible.

    “It is now time to explore political solutions that had been hindered because the matter was before the court.

    “But now that the court has finished, it is time to intensify the request for the President’s intervention, and we are sure that the President is not averse to it.

    “We are going to get it. All hope is not lost. Our people should remain calm,” Kalu said.

    Ahamba: time ripe for clemency

    Elder statesman and legal luminary, Chief Mike Ahamba (SAN), said now is the appropriate time to approach President Tinubu to grant clemency to Kanu.

    The SAN noted that while Kanu has the right to appeal, the President now has the constitutional authority to pardon him.

    “So, for those who had been urging the President to release Nnamdi Kanu during the trial, now is the right time for them to do so. Mr President was not competent to do so during the trial,” he said.

    Although an appeal remains an option, he insisted: “Time is now ripe for a reasonable approach to Mr President for clemency.”

  • How CBD Gummies Can Fit Seamlessly Into Your Lifestyle

    How CBD Gummies Can Fit Seamlessly Into Your Lifestyle

    The CBD sector has become one of the most dynamic branches of the broader cannabis industry, growing from niche wellness curiosity to a significant commercial category with global demand. Gummies, in particular, have carved out a dominant position by combining precise dosing, portability, and consumer familiarity into a single product format. For an industry that values consistency, transparency, and scalable consumer adoption, CBD gummies are an elegant bridge between science and everyday use.

    As advancements in extraction, formulation, and testing technologies continue, ranging from CO₂ extraction to nanoemulsion delivery systems, CBD gummies have evolved from simple confectionery to engineered wellness tools. The ease with which they integrate into daily life is one of the reasons they’re becoming standard offerings for retailers and product developers. Still, the real story lies in how consumers can naturally fold them into their existing routines. The path to seamless incorporation isn’t about changing lifestyle patterns; it’s about enhancing them.

    This article explores how CBD gummies can weave into daily rituals, why they appeal to both beginners and experienced users, and the technology, science, and behavioural trends that make them a long-term staple in the wellness landscape.

    Understanding Why CBD Gummies Work Well Within Daily Habits

    CBD consumers often cite consistency as one of their biggest challenges. Oils require measuring and can be messy. Capsules feel medicinal. Vapes raise safety or social-acceptability concerns. Gummies, however, occupy a familiar middle ground: discreet, stable in dose, and easy to transport.

    Their compatibility with everyday behaviour stems from something behavioural scientists often call “habit adjacency.” In other words, it’s easier to maintain a new wellness behaviour when it attaches itself to an existing routine. Eating a gummy alongside a morning vitamin or before a nighttime wind-down requires minimal friction, and low-friction habits tend to stick.

    From a product-design standpoint, gummies also align with the industry’s push toward predictable, consumer-friendly formats. As companies increasingly rely on lab-verified potency, terpene-consistent formulas, and emerging delivery technologies such as nano-CBD for faster absorption, gummies have emerged as a reliable canvas for innovation. This reliability encourages consumers to form routines around them, a crucial factor for long-term wellness use.

    Supporting Calm and Stress Management Throughout the Day

    A significant percentage of CBD gummy users cite stress reduction as their primary motivation. And while CBD isn’t a sedative, studies have explored its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system, particularly receptors associated with mood regulation and homeostasis. Research published in Neurotherapeutics notes CBD’s potential to modulate stress-related responses, supporting a sense of calm without impairment.

    Integrating gummies into a stress-management routine often requires subtle timing rather than drastic behavioural change. Morning use can help set a more balanced tone, especially during hectic workdays. Afternoon dosing, particularly around the slump when cortisol levels rise, can smooth out tension spikes without affecting cognition or productivity. For some, a post-work gummy becomes part of the transition from professional mode to personal downtime.

    Because gummies come in controlled doses, they encourage consistent intake, which is essential for individuals exploring long-term CBD use for stress support. This consistency also reinforces self-awareness: consumers can track how they feel at different times of day and gradually adjust their routine, giving them a sense of agency in their wellness planning.

    Enhancing Sleep Routines Predictably

    Poor sleep affects nearly every other aspect of wellness, mood regulation, cognitive performance, immune response, and metabolic stability. It’s no surprise that CBD gummies targeting nighttime use have become a significant category in product portfolios.

    The appeal comes from their predictability. Unlike tinctures, which can vary in onset time depending on individual metabolism and whether a person has eaten, gummies metabolise through a slow digestive pathway, offering a gradual, time-released effect. Many companies combine CBD with sleep-supportive ingredients such as melatonin, L-theanine, or botanical extracts like chamomile and lemon balm. These formulations are designed to help individuals prepare for rest rather than force them into sedation.

    In terms of lifestyle fit, gummies integrate naturally into the winding-down period that many people already have, turning off screens, making tea, reading, or simply dimming the lights. Because they resemble a small treat, they don’t disrupt the ritual; they complement it. A nighttime gummy signals the body and mind that the day is slowing down, which helps build consistent circadian habits.

    Technologically, the industry has also begun exploring minor cannabinoids like CBN (cannabinol) for nighttime formulas, using analytical testing and precise blending to maintain consistency. CBD gummies designed for sleep have become a showcase for how cannabis-science innovation meets consumer behaviour.

    Convenient Integration Into Fitness and Recovery Routines

    Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and even casual exercisers have increasingly turned to CBD gummies to support recovery. While CBD is not a performance enhancer, its potential anti-inflammatory and muscle-soothing properties have attracted growing interest, as evidenced by research from organisations such as the National Institutes of Health and product development from brands that cater to active consumers.

    For active individuals, the most significant advantage of gummies is their convenient timing. A post-workout gummy can be taken immediately after cooldown, rather than carrying tinctures or supplements that require measurement. Gummies also pair well with other recovery behaviours such as hydration, stretching, or protein intake.

    The portability factor cannot be overstated. Gummies can be kept in a gym bag without drawing attention, and their stable, pre-measured format reduces the risk of overuse, a concern with more concentrated products. As CBD research in sports continues, gummies are likely to remain one of the easiest entry points for fitness-integrated cannabinoid use.

    Option for Midday Balance and Mental Clarity

    One of the most overlooked benefits of CBD gummies is discretion. Many professionals want the functional advantages of CBD without bringing attention to themselves in workplace environments where cannabis conversations remain sensitive.

    A gummy resembles nothing more than a slight supplement chew. It produces no odour, requires no equipment, and raises no questions. This makes daytime integration straightforward, especially in professions that emphasise focus, client interactions, or long periods of concentration.

    Some users reserve a gummy for specific situations: long meetings, heavy workloads, or travel-related stress. Others build them into consistent schedules, such as taking a small dose during lunch to maintain equilibrium through the afternoon. Because CBD is non-intoxicating, gummies support stability rather than altering mental state, which fits naturally into a work-oriented lifestyle.

    Aligning CBD Gummies With Technology-Driven Wellness Trends

    Broader movements in consumer technology and digital wellness also support the integration of CBD gummies into daily life. Wearables such as Oura Ring, Fitbit, and WHOOP have encouraged people to monitor sleep cycles, heart rate variability, and stress markers. This data-driven self-observation naturally pushes consumers toward tools that can help regulate physiological patterns.

    CBD gummies fit neatly into this ecosystem because they allow for routine-based experimentation. Consumers can track how their body responds to different doses or timing patterns and adjust with precision. This feedback loop, observe, modify, optimise mirrors standard practices in biohacking and personalised health.

    Additionally, product developers are increasingly using data analytics and consumer feedback tools to refine gummy formulations. Technologies such as minor-cannabinoid isolation, nanodelivery for improved absorption, and terpene-informed formulation design give gummies a scientific backbone that aligns with tech-savvy wellness consumers.

    Practical Tips for Making CBD Gummies Part of Your Daily Life

    Incorporating CBD gummies seamlessly isn’t about reinventing your day. It’s about making minor adjustments that feel natural. Many people start with morning use, pairing a gummy with existing supplements or breakfast. Others prefer evening use as part of their relaxation period. Some treat gummies as situational, taking them only when they anticipate a stressful task or after a demanding workout.

    The key is consistency. Tracking timing and effects helps refine the routine. Because gummies come in fixed doses, they reduce the variability that can complicate integration with oils or tinctures. Over time, the body adapts, giving users clearer expectations about onset timing and duration.

    Considering Safety, Quality, and Responsible Use

    Even though CBD gummies fit easily into daily life, consumers and professionals must remain aware of quality and safety considerations. Reputable brands undergo third-party testing, providing certificates of analysis that detail cannabinoid content, terpene profiles, and screening for contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and solvents. Transparency is increasingly becoming a competitive differentiator, especially in states with strict regulatory environments.

    Consumers should also be mindful of how CBD interacts with medications, as research has shown potential metabolic interactions through cytochrome P450 pathways. Anyone with health conditions or on prescription drugs should consult a healthcare professional before integrating CBD.

    Responsible use also extends to dose awareness. More is not necessarily better. Starting with lower doses and gradually increasing them helps users find the optimal point at which benefits appear without unnecessary intake. This thoughtful approach keeps CBD gummies aligned with long-term wellness rather than novelty consumption.

    Final Thoughts

    CBD gummies represent a convergence of consumer expectations, scientific innovation, and ease of use. They don’t demand lifestyle changes—they slip effortlessly into the routines people already have. Whether for stress support, better sleep, exercise recovery, or general balance, gummies provide a structured yet flexible format that supports long-term wellness habits.

    For the cannabis industry, gummies highlight the importance of user-friendly delivery systems and data-driven formulation. For consumers, they offer a simple, predictable, and enjoyable way to integrate CBD into everyday life. As technology advances and research deepens, CBD gummies will likely remain a central, approachable pathway to cannabinoid wellness, proof that sometimes the smallest habits can create the largest sense of equilibrium.

  • Pension funds in subtle shift to corporate bonds, private equity

    Pension funds in subtle shift to corporate bonds, private equity

    For the first time in years, pension funds administrators (PFAs) are making noticeable moves away from their traditionally heavy concentration in Federal Government securities, signaling a subtle but significant shift in portfolio strategy.

    While Federal Government’s instruments still dominate, soaking up N15.75 trillion or roughly 60 per cent of all pension funds in the period under review, PenCom data for the period ended September 30, 2025 showed accelerated diversification by Pension Fund Adminstrators (PFAs) into corporate bonds, real estate, private equity and infrastructure funds.

    The shift from heavy concentration in Federal Government securities was against the average 70 per cent concentration and investment before now by the PFAs.

    This was shown in the National Pension Commission (PenCom) report titled: “Unaudited Report on Pension Funds Industry Portfolio for the Period Ended 30 September 2025.

    Meanwhile, Nigeria’s pension industry has crossed a major financial milestone, rising through the N26 trillion mark for the first time in history, according to the National Pension Commission’s (PenCom) unaudited portfolio report for the period ended 30 September 2025.

    With total assets rising to N26.09 trillion, the pension sector added N194.17 billion in just three months, a surge that reflects both investor confidence and a silent, strategic realignment by Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) seeking better returns for millions of Nigerian workers.

    Going by the shift from heavy concentration in Federal Government Securities, the report showed that Domestic Equities surged to N3.66 trillion, boosted by renewed investor sentiment in the capital market, while foreign equity holdings hit N277.49 billion despite continued foreign exchange tightness.

    Findings, however, show that PFAs are cautiously returning to the stock market after months of volatility, a move that could inject fresh liquidity into Nigerian equities in the months ahead.

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    Beside, Corporate Debt holdings in the report climbed to N2.24 trillion, their highest level yet, signaling renewed confidence in private sector creditworthiness and the growing appeal of infrastructure-linked instruments.

    Real Estate, Private Equity and Infrastructure Funds gain traction standing at N243.35 billion, N260.53 billion and N240.39 billion consecutively.

    REITs and Mutual Funds on the other hand combined for N317.09 billion.

    This deepening presence in alternative assets marks the clearest sign that PFAs are preparing for a long-term battle against inflation by tapping asset classes with stronger real-return potential.

    Few months ago, the PenCom’s Director-General, Omolara Oloworaran expressed displeasure on overconcentration in FGN securities by PFAs, noting that plans are on diversifying pension fund investments into private equities and among other investment that would withstand inflation on pension funds.

    Speaking at a PFAs’ Board Strategy & Risk Committees workshop, Oloworaran revealed that 62 percent of pension assets then estimated at N24.11trillion were invested in FGN instruments even as less than three percent had been deployed into alternative assets like infrastructure and private equity.

    She stated that too much investment in Government Bonds is not enough in growth and sounded alarm on pension fund risks.

    She said Nigeria’s pension funds remain dangerously overexposed to Federal Government securities, and unless action is taken now, contributor savings may not be positioned to deliver strong real-returns in a volatile economy.

    The misperception of safety with liquidity has limited the ability of PFAs to optimally deploy pension funds under their management,” she said, calling on PFAs to rethink what “safety” really means.

    According to Oloworaran, the longstanding reliance on government bonds while historically justified is no longer sufficient in Nigeria’s current macroeconomic climate.

    She argued that the rising cost of living, sharp currency movements, and weakening purchasing power of Retirement Savings Account (RSA) holders demand a more “dynamic and resilient” investment strategy.

    She emphasized that too much concentration in sovereign debt is a “single basket” risk, and diversification is essential to stabilize returns over time.

    To address this imbalance, Oloworaran said she is advocating for a realignment of pension funds toward alternative, higher-yielding asset classes:

    She supports increasing the regulatory cap on how much PFAs can invest in infrastructure and private equity, arguing that more headroom is needed for long-term savings to benefit both contributors and the economy.

    Rather than backing only subsidised government projects, PenCom under her watch wants pension assets to finance commercially viable infrastructure. These could include roads, power, and energy projects not just social housing.

    She urged PFAs’ Risk and Strategy committees to deepen their vigilance: “Scenario analyses must be robust,” she said, and decision-making must be informed by sound risk assessments and proper governance.

    With her bold call to loosen the grip on government bonds, Oloworaran is signaling a paradigm shift that seems to have started with the September 2025 report.

  • How to secure alternate funding for local carriers, by experts

    How to secure alternate funding for local carriers, by experts

    Experts in the air transport and allied ecosystems have called on policymakers and financial institutions to rethink airline financing emphasising the need for frameworks that reduce risk for local banks while allowing carriers to tap into offshore capital.

    They said if the regulatory and financial structures are not adjusted, Nigerian airlines will continue to be disadvantaged in both domestic and international markets.

    They said while innovative financial instruments exist globally, local regulations and economic volatility restrict Nigerian carriers, affirming that without deliberate intervention, domestic airlines risk stagnation.

    Speaking in separate interviews in Lagos, Chief Executive Officer, TopBrass Aviation , Captain Roland Iyayi , Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe and Managing Director of Ibom Air, Mr George Uriesi said if access to funding and cost of operations is not restructured, the air transport industry will face more challenges.

    On his part, Iyayi said the long term sustainability and competitiveness of local carriers is threatened because of hurdles bordering on accessing alternative funding.

    He said  Nigeria’s financial and regulatory framework makes offshore financing very challenging, because  such funds require in-country guarantees.

    “When a local airline goes abroad to secure offshore funding using, for instance, a U.S. export bank, which requires in-country guarantees, the local banks must first provide that guarantee.”

    The CEO said  Nigerian banks face regulatory and capacity limitations, as  guarantees exceeding a bank’s obligor limits are sometimes converted into loans by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

    “What that means essentially is that a local airline now services two loans,” Iyayi explained.

    Iyayi warned that this dual-loan system undermines competitiveness.

    “Imagine having a four-and-a-half per cent interest rate offshore and then being asked to pay another 26 per cent locally. Invariably, the competitive edge is no longer there, and more often than not, the local airline will fail. That’s basically where we are at this point,” he said.

    He stressed that the lack of access to alternate funding affects fleet modernisation, route expansion, and the ability to compete with foreign airlines enjoying easier access to capital.

    According to Iyayi, this alternate funding bottleneck also limits infrastructure investment, reduces operational efficiency, and slows overall sector growth.

    He said :” There is a  need for frameworks that reduce risk for local banks while allowing carriers to tap into offshore capital.

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    He further noted that while innovative financial instruments exist globally, local regulations and economic volatility restrict Nigerian carriers.

    “Addressing these alternate funding challenges is not just about survival. It’s about ensuring that Nigerian airlines can compete on a level playing field globally, attract investments, and support the country’s economic growth,” Iyayi concluded.

    On her part, Onyeali – Ikpe said commercial banks cannot lend to Nigerian airlines at single-digit interest rates because they borrow funds at about twenty percent.

    “Commercial financing by commercial banks… it’s absolutely impossible to lend at nine percent when your deposit cost is twenty,” Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe said.

    “It is just not possible for banks to lend at single digits. The industry needs to borrow at single-digit rates to keep up with the kind of expense they have to deal with.”

    She said  banks face high deposit costs and cannot bridge the gap without incurring heavy losses.

    She explained that the financial spread collapses when banks borrow at twenty percent and then attempt to lend at nine percent.

    She said: “Therefore, the aviation sector must not rely on commercial banks alone for long-term funding. “If commercial banks attempt to provide single-digit interest rates from their balance sheets, the spread simply wouldn’t favour the bank. That’s the truth,” she said. “This is why we need a combination of specialised financial institutions, government support, and innovative funding structures.

    “Given the constraints of commercial banking, alternate funding arrangements have emerged as critical solutions.”

    Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe identified dry lease agreements as a “game changer” for airlines.

    “The dry lease arrangement has been approved for Air Peace,” she explained.

    “With a dry lease, you save over 30 per cent of costs compared to a wet lease, where the lessor provides crew, maintenance, and insurance, which is more expensive. For airlines to qualify, they must meet specific criteria, including insurance and regulatory compliance. It’s a tall order, but it’s the easiest way to put aircraft in the hands of airlines.”

    She said Fidelity Bank is also exploring international funding avenues.

    “Through our Fidelity Bank London, we’re exploring funds from DFIs in Europe, where borrowing rates are as low as 3-4 per cent  Once we secure these funds, we can structure them to benefit Nigerian airlines, providing another viable alternative to high-interest local financing,” Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe said.

    Government-backed guarantees like the National Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC) scheme, provide additional relief.

    “The NCGC guarantee scheme covers 60 per cent  of bank lending to SMEs. Applying this to aviation could ease the burden on banks and make low-interest borrowing more feasible,” she noted.

    Therefore, she urged policymakers to consider such adjustments as part of a broader sector reform strategy.

    She said :” The demand for long-tenor, low-cost funding continues to rise as Nigerian airlines expand fleet capacity and passenger numbers grow. However, high deposit costs remain the strongest barrier to single-digit interest rates.

    “Therefore, the sector must adopt a blended approach involving government intervention, specialist institutions, and innovative lease structures.”

    Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe concluded that aviation remains a high-value industry requiring stable financial planning.

     She said: “In the interest of the country, the airlines need to borrow at single-digit rates.

    “But the reality is that commercial banks cannot lend at nine percent from their balance sheets. That is why we need a combination of specialised financing institutions, government support, and innovative structures to keep the industry moving forward.”

    On his part, Uriesi said

    Nigerian airlines face severe financial strain from overseas aircraft maintenance.

    He described routine checks sent abroad as “unsustainable” , noting that planned budgets of $1.5 million often escalate to $3-4 million per aircraft.

    “Every time we maintain our aeroplanes outside, planning becomes extremely difficult, and costs soar beyond reason,” Uriesi said.

    He warned that this practice undermines airline profitability despite operational growth.

     “We are being taken advantage of. It is a systemic problem for Nigerian airlines,” he added.

    Uriesi stressed that enhancing local aircraft maintenance capability is critical for long-term airline sustainability.

    “We need to start maintaining our aircraft inside Nigeria, at least partially. The current approach of aircraft maintenance is financially crippling and operationally inefficient,” he said.

     “Relying entirely on foreign service providers puts airlines at the mercy of international pricing.

    “Ibom Air operates modern Airbus A220 aircraft, all purchased brand-new. European carriers often secure financing for the same planes at 3-4 percent interest over 15 years, but Nigerian airlines pay roughly 30 percent over seven years.

    “A European operator might pay $100 per month for an aircraft; we pay $500,” Uriesi explained.

     He said this massive disparity inflates costs and restricts fleet expansion.

    He said :” High insurance premiums further exacerbate financial pressure. Ibom Air pays nearly twice what international peers pay for equivalent risk coverage. “Why is Nigeria treated differently?” he asked.

    “The risk level is identical, yet our costs are double. This challenge must be addressed for Nigerian airlines to survive. Taxes and regulatory fees add another layer of difficulty. For example, Lagos-Accra flights incur roughly $185 in combined taxes, while the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority plans to add $11.50 per flight.

    “When you factor in ground handling, fuel, landing fees, and overflight charges, pricing tickets profitably becomes almost impossible,” Uriesi said.

     He noted that these costs affect both profitability and consumer fares.

    Despite these hurdles, Ibom Air has achieved an 88 percent compounded average revenue growth since 2019. Uriesi credited interventions by the Minister of Aviation for reducing some bottlenecks in aircraft acquisition. “Ministerial efforts have helped, but systemic challenges remain, particularly in aircraft maintenance and high-dollar-denominated costs,” he noted.

    Uriesi highlighted the broader aviation ecosystem, including manufacturers, lessors, insurers, and fuel suppliers, noting that airlines bear the brunt of inefficiencies.

     “The airline is the heavy lifter,” he said.

    “We earn in naira but pay in dollars. Every inefficiency in the system inflates costs. Solving maintenance inefficiencies could immediately improve financial outcomes.”

     Uriesi described achieving sustainable profitability in Nigeria as a uniquely difficult obstacle course. “Profitability isn’t just revenue minus costs here. It’s navigating a complex, dollar-based ecosystem with infrastructure, regulatory, and operational hurdles stacked against us. Addressing aircraft maintenance inefficiencies and other bottlenecks could transform the financial health of Nigerian airlines almost overnight,” he said.

  • 2025 oil bid portal opens December 1

    2025 oil bid portal opens December 1

    The 2025 Oil bid licence round is set to commence on December 1, 2025. The Commission Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, an engineer, who made this disclosure in a statement by the Commission’s Head of media, Eniola Akinkuotu, promised to deliver a transparent 2025 licensing round even as he revealed that the Bid portal would go live on the NUPRC’s website on December 1, 2025.

    He further stated that the licensing round will undergo two stages. First will be the technical phase and then those who scale through will progress to the commercial phase.

    The NUPRC boss stated this when executives of Ludoil Energy of Italy visited the Commission’s corporate headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.

    He said: “The portal for the licensing round will go live on December 1. The licensing round will be transparent and fair in line with the provisions of the PIA, 2021. We do not discriminate. We invite all potential investors to participate.

     “The process will be digitised such that winners would know immediately after the exercise whether they won or not. There is no bureaucracy involve,”Komolafe said.

    According to him, the Petroleum Industry Act had restored confidence in Nigeria’s energy sector and provided a stable regulatory atmosphere.

    The NUPRC boss therefore, told the Ludoil Energy executives that this was the best time to invest in Nigeria.

    He argued that with over 37 billion barrels of proven oil reserves as well as its current status as Africa’s largest crude oil producer, Nigeria remained the best place in Africa to invest.

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    Komolafe further noted that with a coastline of over 853km, Nigeria had a strategic advantage of its crude getting to the European market even faster than that of the United States.

    The NUPRC helmsman, therefore, called on investors to take advantage of this opportunity.

    In his remarks, the Group Chief Technical Officer, LudoilEnergy SPA, Mr. Paolo Fedeli, said the company is presently operating in the Republic of Congo but was seeking to expand its footprint in Africa, starting with Nigeria because of its potential as Africa’s largest oil producer. Fedeli added that Ludoil Energy was keen on participating in the 2025 licensing round.

     “We are seeing Nigeria as our next target for growth because Nigeria is the largest producer in Africa. Your next round of licensing is an opportunity for us,” Fedeli said.

  • SMEFUNDS seeks solar adoption in agric

    SMEFUNDS seeks solar adoption in agric

    The Chief Executive, SMEFUNDS, Dr. Femi Oye, has called  for increased participation from the Federal Government and the private sector in solar-powered agricultural projects.  The call comes in response to the launch of the Solar Energy for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR) project by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in Ethiopia and Kenya, a project he sees as a blueprint for transforming Nigeria’s food systems.

    The SoLAR project, funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), is expanding beyond solar-powered irrigation—which successfully helped farmers in South Asia reduce their dependence on rainfall—to introduce a comprehensive range of solar technologies. These include cold storage, dryers, milling, and agro-processing equipment.

    “This holistic approach being piloted by IWMI to help farmers lower production costs, reduce waste, and create additional income streams is exactly what Nigeria needs to replicate and scale.”

    We have the sun, we have the need, and the technology is proven. It is time for our government to create the incentives and for the private sector to step up with investment to power our farmlands,” Oye asserted.

    The IWMI initiative is directly addressing critical agricultural constraints in East Africa, challenges that are mirrored in Nigeria. In Kenya, only a fraction of the 3.3 million acres of irrigation potential is currently being utilized. Meanwhile, Ethiopia faces high inefficiencies and rising demand in small-scale irrigation.

    Speaking at the launch, Inga Jacobs-Mata, IWMI’s Strategic Program Director of Water, Growth and Inclusion, highlighted the potential, stating, “Solar energy has the potential to transform food systems, making them more sustainable, inclusive and climate-resilient.”

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    The SoLAR project aims to generate robust evidence to shape policy, guide investments, and develop financing options to make solar technology affordable for all farmers. Furthermore, it focuses on building the skills of farmers and ensuring that women, youth, and disadvantaged groups gain equitable access to these systems.

    Oye stressed that Nigeria must learn from these developments. “The coordinated action being called for in Kenya and Ethiopia to bridge policy gaps and expand financing options for solar technology must be an immediate priority here.We cannot afford to leave millions of hectares under-utilized due to lack of efficient power for irrigation and post-harvest management. The partnership between public policy, private finance, and farmer training is the key to food security,” he said. “

    The SMEFUNDS Chief Executive echoing the project’s focus on skill-building and innovation noted. “We must adopt the ‘living labs’ approach, where farmers and partners test and refine solar innovations tailored to local conditions. Let us power our way to a climate-smart, productive, and financially viable agricultural future.”

  • Firm faults EFCC’s public notice

    Firm faults EFCC’s public notice

    Chappal Energies has faulted the public notice issued by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) declaring its Managing Director, Mr Ufoma Immanuel, wanted.

    The Nigerian-owned energy company said there is a court injunction preventing the anti-graft agency from inviting or arresting its MD.

    The EFCC had in a public notice on Wednesday declared Immanuel wanted for an alleged case of obtaining money by false pretence and forgery.

    But Chappal Energies said enforcement actions under Nigerian law are governed by established procedures that require reasonable attempts at direct engagement through official channels before issuing or acting on a warrant.

    “To our knowledge, no attempt was made to engage Mr. Immanuel or the Company through these channels prior to the issuance of the notice, which creates the unfortunate impression of a public escalation where standard procedures were readily available,” the company said, in statement on Friday.

    The statement, which was made available to The Nation, said both Mr. Immanuel and Chappal Energies remain fully reachable through their established official addresses, phone lines and electronic contacts, all of which are publicly available.

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    It, however, reiterated that “For the avoidance of doubt, Chappal Energies vehemently refutes all allegations cited by the EFCC. The claims are entirely without merit and stand in direct contradiction to the documented facts already before the court.

     “Chappal Energies and its Directors have recently faced coordinated pressures linked to an on-going civil dispute. These developments ultimately led to an order by Hon. Justice J.E. Obanor of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory.”

    According to the statement, Justice Obanor, on 11 September 2025, granted an interlocutory injunction restraining the EFCC and other listed respondents from inviting, questioning, arresting, detaining or otherwise acting against Mr. Immanuel or Chappal Energies.

     “This order remains in force and as such, the circumstances surrounding this public notice, despite a binding court order, create the impression of external actors seeking public spectacle and mischief rather than adherence to legal due process,” Chappal Energies said,

    The company said it continues to respect the roles of all statutory institutions, including the EFCC and remain committed to full cooperation with all relevant authorities through the proper legal channels.

     “However, we will pursue every available legal and formal avenue to challenge these allegations and to protect the integrity of the Company and its leadership,” Chappal Energies said.

    The company stated that its operations remain uninterrupted, and its leadership remains focused on delivering long-term value in line with its commitments to partners, regulators and stakeholders.

  • Experts hinge $3b non-oil target on sunflower value chain

    Experts hinge $3b non-oil target on sunflower value chain

    Nigeria’s pursuit of a diversified economy, with non-oil export earnings recently topping $2.7 billion, is set for a significant boost if the country fully capitalised on the sunflower seed value chain, experts have said. South Africa is currently the African leader in production with an output of over 700,000 tons. Nigeria’s  production is still below 300,000 tons.

    They contended that fully harnessing the agricultural commodity is crucial for realising the long-term, sustainable economic growth that diversification promises, projecting that Nigeria can earn an estimated $1.5 billion from seeds alone and a total of $3.5 billion from the entire value chain.

    One of them is the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive, Institute of Export Operations & Management (IEOM) Ofon Udofia.

    According to him, the appeal of sunflower seeds is twofold, servicing robust international demand from both the food and industrial sectors. “There’s a lot of prospect for sunflower, and the seed is where there’s a lot of much prospect because it is used in pharmaceuticals. It’s also used as an oil seed for vegetable oil,” Udofia noted.

    He confirmed the commodity is “highly sought after internationally, especially in Europe.”

    Udofia explained that the main hurdle preventing Nigeria from realising its potential remains the need for greatly expanded local production and improved logistics. He stressed that compliance and international certification processes must be streamlined to ensure smooth movement of the commodity to global destinations, securing Nigeria’s competitive edge.

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    The oilseed segment provides a healthy, cholesterol-free vegetable oil, which is the fourth most consumed edible oil globally, trailing only palm, soybean, and canola oils. This high nutritional value is fueling the global sunflower seed market, which is projected to reach $2.41 billion by 2035. Furthermore, the seed’s essential use in the pharmaceutical sector provides dual-market access, insulating it from price volatility in a single industry and offering a more resilient source of foreign earnings for Nigeria.

    Despite burgeoning continental demand, Nigeria’s current export revenue from the sunflower value chain is meager, around $200,000, according to stakeholders.

    National President , National Sunflower Growers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NSUNGPMAN), Jibrin K. Bukar, noted that  Nigeria possesses immense, yet largely untapped, potential to become a global powerhouse in sunflower production, provided there is substantial investment and farmer support. Bukar stressed that a significant influx of capital is the main catalyst needed to boost the sector. “We need big time investors because by so investing into it, it will propel high level of production,” Bukar stated. He highlighted the country’s natural advantage, noting that “Nigeria has the potential to produce sunflower, to meet up with not only the continental demand but also global demand. Our soil is so good that sunflower grows almost everywhere in Nigeria except where there is waterlogged.”

    Beyond investment in processing facilities, the association leader emphasised the need to incentivize local farmers. “Farmers need to be encouraged, to be incentivised, to be supported with inputs so that by supporting them it will encourage them to produce more.This increased output would directly feed the facilities of prospective investors. “If it is produced more, these investors will offtake it, they will mop it up to feed their facilities, that is their oil mill,” Bukar added.

    According to him, current production figures are inadequate to meet the nation’s needs, despite a recent modest increase. “The figure is a little above 200,000 metric tonnes, but then going by the Nigerian market, it is insignificant. It doesn’t go anywhere because the demand is high,” Bukar admitted, noting that production is currently “not commensurate to the demand.” Massively increased production would lead to export opportunities, “increasing the GDP of our country, it will increase our foreign exchange.”

    Bukar elaborated on the crop’s economic and health significance, noting its diverse applications across major industries. “The major components of sunflower are the food industry that has to do with the oil, the cosmetic industry that has to do with a lot of things, name it, hair shampoo, hair cream, body soap, and all sorts of things as far as cosmetic is concerned, you get it from sunflower. The oil itself is a premium product. Sunflower oil is the second best after olives, and at the global level it is the third most consumed edible oil after soya and palm. Sunflower has a lot of medicinal value, some of which it cures and prevents cancer,” Bukar asserted.

    He believes that integrating sunflower oil into the Nigerian diet “will increase the health status of the citizenry because by using sunflower oil, most of the sicknesses we are suffering from will be reduced drastically.”

    To officially validate these health claims, he said the association is seeking collaboration with government agencies. “We will also need support from the Federal Ministry of Health, more especially the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Research and Development so that we can certify and ascertain the contents… of medicinal values that are there in sunflower scientifically,” Bukar concluded.

    Recently, he stated that production is expected to increase to over 600,000 metric tons if a few large-scale privately owned processing plants are established and could exceed 750,000 metric tons with the addition of more cottage processing plants.

    Chief Executive Officer, Produce Export Development Alliance (PEDA), Adetiloye Aiyeola noted that prospects for Nigerian sunflower exports are “very, very strong,” but realising the potential hinges on urgently addressing fundamental challenges in distribution, supply chain structure, and market access.

    Speaking on the global demand for sunflower products, Aiyeola noted the sheer scale of the opportunity. “Globally, the market is very rich. There’s a demand, global demand, of over 56 million tons of sunflower seeds that was produced last year. And the value of both the oil and both the seed is going to be around $58 billion by 2035,” he stated, adding that “the demand is huge and the demand is not a problem at all.”

    Aiyeola emphasised that Nigeria possesses the natural capacity to produce the crop. “The Nigerian challenge has never been that we cannot grow the crop because we are blessed with abundant land and ecology to support the production, especially really around the northern region or north central region,” he explained.

    The Chief Executive, however, pointed to a critical issue of inconsistency, noting that Nigeria’s sunflower exports were higher in 2021 than in 2023. This fluctuation, he said, “is obviously showing that there’s a real issue in our consistency in the standards, in the aggregation, in the supply chain programmes.”

    Aiyeola stressed that international buyers have strict specifications. “Most buyers, they really want clean seeds. They want seeds with moisture stability and traceability. The consequence of failing to meet these requirements is severe: “Once a shipment fails this specification, the entire country gets downgraded in that product line,” , he said.

    While acknowledging “real interest” in Nigerian sunflower seeds from key markets like Egypt, the Middle East, India, and parts of Europe, Aiyeola maintained that local stakeholders must match the opportunity with organizational rigor.

    “The people that will win are the ones that will organize both the growers and the aggregators and guarantee that priority level so that we can meet the contracts consistently,” he asserted, describing this as part of the work PEDA is currently undertaking.

    He concluded: “The future for sunflower from Nigeria is bright, but it is depending on if we have more structure in our supply chain.”

    “I also think that if we get our supply chain right, if we get the specifications right, if we get the compliance right, traceability right, our supply chains are efficient… sunflower can become a major income crop for farmers and processors, and it can help us establish a stable export line from the country,” Aiyeola affirmed.

    Recently, the  Executive Director/Chief Executive, Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Dr. Ezra Yakusak, affirmed the council’s commitment to this goal, stating, “As a trade promotion organisation, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council sees the urgent need for the sunflower value chain to be developed to the level of being internationally acceptable and highly competitive in the global market, with the high hope of growing our export volume and value.”

    Nigeria’s push comes at a time of significant geopolitical disruption in the global sunflower oil market. Eastern Europe, specifically Ukraine (the largest producer) and Russia (the second largest), accounts for over 50per cent of global output. Geopolitical instability has significantly impacted their exports, causing shortages and price volatility.

    The latest USDA forecasts reflect this instability: The forecast for global sunflower production has been reduced by 1 million tons for the 2025/26 marketing year, largely due to a reduced harvest in Ukraine and Russia, though partially offset by an increase in Argentina.

    This supply uncertainty, coupled with rising global demand for healthier cooking oils like sunflower oil—prized for its high Vitamin E and unsaturated fats—creates a timely opening for reliable new suppliers.

    For Nigeria to convert its vast potential into tangible economic gains, scaling production and achieving certification are the twin steps it must take.

    Africa’s Refined Sunflower and Safflower Oil Market report said the market is set to reach 15 million tons and $20.2 billion by 2035. According to it, African continent is a critical player in the global sunflower oil market, with consumption of edible oils rising due to population growth, urbanization, and rising incomes. Countries such as Egypt (the largest importer), South Africa, and Nigeria are major importers, with Nigeria’s retail consumption growing quickly, driven by its population of over 200 million.