The Nation Newspaper

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  • Tinubu: Prophetic in vision, delivering with foresight

    Tinubu: Prophetic in vision, delivering with foresight

    • By Bamidele Atoyebi

    Looking with hindsight at the rate of delivery on campaign promises, what rightfully agitates the mind would be, is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a prophet? The question may sound rhetorical, even dramatic, but it keeps imposing itself on public discourse as events continue to align with the projections he boldly made while presenting the 2025 budget in 2024 with empirical accuracy.

    At the time, many Nigerians dismissed his projections as mere political optimism, but now they know better. He called the 2025 budget “An Ambitious but Necessary Budget to Secure Our Future” and projected that inflation, which appeared untamable and stood at about 34.6 per cent, would drop significantly to around 15 per cent. Today, inflation has reportedly declined further to about 14.5 per cent and is still racing towards single digits. That was not a coincidence; it was a policy meeting purpose, the result of one who prepared for power and just linking the dots with pinpoint accuracy.

    He also spoke with confidence about the exchange rate. When the naira was hovering around ₦1,700 to the dollar, with many predicting it would hit the ₦ 2,000 mark, President Tinubu projected a drop to about ₦1,500. As of today, the naira is trading around ₦1,452 to the dollar, and with the reforms, there is no gainsaying that the Naira will further firm up. Again, what many saw as wishful thinking has become measurable progress with adroit policy implementation.

    This is why the President’s oft-quoted assurance (Elofokanbale) “go and be rest assured, go and be at peace” resonates differently today. Tinubu did not just say he would fix the battered economy; he is fixing it, step by step, policy by policy. Leadership is not about noise; it is about results.  The results are beginning to speak loudly in different sectors where hopes had been lost.

    Even the NNPCL has stepped up under this administration. For the first time in over 36 years, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has broken long-standing barriers, recording historic highs in its upstream crude oil production and posting unprecedented financial returns with never-before-seen transparency. This turnaround has been driven by stronger accountability, improved operational efficiency, and a clear reform direction championed by the Tinubu government.

    Read Also: 2027: CAGrAM unveils plan to mobilise 10 million votes for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election

    President Tinubu has always spoken with the confidence of a man who understands both power and process. He once said he does not join certain caucuses because he knows them to be sneaky and untrustworthy, but that he would defeat them in every election. History records that he did exactly that, defeating Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Kwankwaso despite their combined efforts. “We will vote, we will win” was not just a slogan; it became a political reality that has become an immutable benchmark.

    Every major statement Tinubu has made in public has either become a trending topic, a political reality, or an economic direction. His words shape conversations; his policies shape outcomes. That is why some Nigerians, half-joking but half-serious, now ask: Does Tinubu, like Nostradamus, see the future?

    From the standpoint of the BAT Ideological Group, this is not prophecy; it is preparation. It is the product of experience, courage, clear vision, and an ideological belief in reform-driven governance. Tinubu understands that tough decisions today are the price for stability tomorrow. This is why we say Tinubu is not a politician; he’s an institution, he doesn’t just make a statement like others do without having a plan and methodology on how he would achieve his aims and objectives.

    As we look ahead to 2026, optimism is no longer blind faith; it is grounded in the evidence and reality of what has so far been achieved. The foundations are being laid, the numbers are tallying, and confidence is gradually building. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deserves his accolades, not because he speaks boldly, but because the country is beginning to move in the direction he promised.

    History will decide the final verdict, but for now, one thing is clear: when leadership is guided by ideology and competence, vision can begin to look like foresight.

    When I was asked at one event I attended in Kwara what to expect from President Tinubu after 2027, I told them to expect anti-terrorist battalions, improved salaries and welfare for our security men, upgraded weapon systems, more loans for farmers, farmers’ cooperative, rural infrastructure development, access to finance, more Renewed Hope homes for low-income earners, among others. When the reporter asked how I knew these, I told him Bamidele understands by Renewed Hope manifestos and political impartation the same way “Daniel understood by books and time.”

    –  Bamidele Atoyebi is the Convener of BAT Ideological Group,  publisher at Mining and Unfiltered reporting, and National Coordinator for Accountability and Policy Monitoring

  • Group seeks court order to halt extension of sachet alcohol moratorium

    Group seeks court order to halt extension of sachet alcohol moratorium

    The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has approached the Federal High Court in Lagos, seeking injunctive orders to restrain the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the Attorney-General of the Federation from further extending the moratorium on the ban of alcohol packaged in sachets.

    SERAP is also asking the court to bar the Federal Government, including the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), from interfering with the statutory powers of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to enforce the prohibition on the production, distribution, and sale of sachet alcohol.

    The organisation is seeking an order of injunction restraining the defendants, their agents, or any persons acting on their behalf from extending any moratorium on the sachet alcohol ban.

    The group is further requesting a perpetual injunction to restrain the defendants from directing, preventing, blocking, or stopping NAFDAC from enforcing the prohibition, in line with its statutory duties under Sections 5 and 30(c) of the NAFDAC Act, the Spirits Drink Regulation, and the Memorandum of Resolution executed on 19 December 2018.

    In the suit marked FHC/L/CS/2568/25, SERAP is also asking the court to compel the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in its supervisory capacity, to immediately ensure that NAFDAC fully enforces the existing nationwide ban on the production, distribution, and sale of alcohol in sachet format.

    The defendants in the suit are the Minister of Health and Social Welfare and the Attorney-General of the Federation.

    SERAP argued that the continued delay by relevant federal authorities in enforcing the ban amounts to a failure to implement established public health regulations aimed at curbing alcohol abuse, protecting public safety, and safeguarding citizens’ well-being.

    The suit was filed on SERAP’s behalf by Mofesomo Tayo-Oyetibo, SAN, alongside other lawyers from Tayo Oyetibo LP.

    In the originating summons dated 15 December 2025, SERAP contended that the continued circulation of sachet alcohol violates the National Health Act 2014, the NAFDAC Act, the Spirits Drink Regulation 2021 and the Memorandum of Resolution of 19 December 2018, all of which mandate a nationwide ban on sachet alcohol.

    SERAP is asking the court to determine whether the Minister of Health can lawfully refuse or fail to enforce the prohibition, and whether any federal authority has the power to interfere with or delay NAFDAC’s statutory duty to enforce the ban.

    The organisation also wants the court to decide whether, given the acknowledged dangers of alcohol abuse, judicial intervention is required in the interest of public health, public safety, and public order.

    According to SERAP, sachet alcohol, often cheap, highly potent, and widely accessible, has been linked to rising cases of alcohol abuse, particularly among young people and low-income communities. It argues that the 2018 Memorandum of Resolution and subsequent regulations were adopted precisely to address these risks.

    Among the reliefs sought are declarations that the sachet alcohol ban is a valid regulation under the NAFDAC Act; that the Minister of Health has no legal authority to grant or extend any moratorium on its enforcement; and that it is unlawful for any federal authority to interfere with NAFDAC’s enforcement responsibilities.

    SERAP is also asking the court to affirm that the defendants have a duty to ensure the full implementation of the ban nationwide.

    The legal action follows recent unverified social media news suggesting that there is an attempt to further postpone the long-overdue enforcement of the ban championed by a few operators bent on continued violation of the regulation, despite earlier regulatory directives and broad industry commitments.

    The issue has gained renewed attention after the Senate, in a full plenary session, passed a unanimous resolution setting a December 2025 deadline for full enforcement of the ban, citing public health concerns.

    SERAP insists that continued delays undermine Nigeria’s health laws and expose citizens to preventable harm, urging the relevant authorities to prioritise public interest over selfish profit objectives of a few non-compliant businessmen.

  • Imose: Blend of lifestyle, women’s empowerment

    Imose: Blend of lifestyle, women’s empowerment

    Barely six months after its maiden edition, Imose exhibition is making a return today and tomorrow with a much better and promising blend of fashion, beauty, wellness, business, and culture. Venue of the exhibition tagged Imose 1.1 is La Madison Place, Oniru, Lagos.

    The event, which is designed as a luxury fashion and lifestyle trade fair, is an ecosystem of top designers, emerging brands, and creative entrepreneurs in what organisers describe as a vibrant marketplace and community space.

    Speaking at a briefing in Lagos, seasoned banker and Convener of Imose Exhibition, Mrs Angela Jide-Jones, reassured that Imose 1.1 will expand its vendors to 100 while strengthening partnerships and curating a richer marketplace. 

    She said that the mission of the initiative is to empower, celebrate, and support young women in Nigeria.

    She explained that her journey with widows revealed a deeper challenge. While supporting mothers, she realised that their children also needed opportunities, especially as many young people graduate from school without jobs.

    The exhibition is an offshoot of the long-standing humanitarian work of the Sewa Foundation, through which its founder, Mrs. Angela Jide-Jones, has supported widows for over two decades.

    “We started training the youths, brought in artisans, and gave them seed capital to start businesses. But we soon realised that many of them were extremely talented and skilled, yet lacked a platform to be seen,” she said. “That was how the idea of Imose was born.”

    She disclosed that the decision to hold a second edition in December was intentional, adding that part of the vision of Imose is not to be a one-off event in a year. 

    According to her, December was chosen to align with Nigeria’s festive season, often referred to as “Detty December,” when Nigerians in the diaspora return home from the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, and other parts of the world.

    “Everybody meets in Nigeria in December. We decided to do it at this time so our vendors can get more clients,” she explained. “People will buy during the exhibition and even after January, February, and March. They will ship clothes abroad or ask family members to pick up items from Nigeria.” Expectedly, the goal, she said, was to give exhibitors the best chance to sell, grow their businesses, and expand their footprint.

    This December edition will feature an expanded marketplace of fashion, beauty, wellness, art, and handmade brands, alongside masterclasses and conversations aimed at equipping entrepreneurs with practical business skills.

    At the maiden edition in June 2025, it attracted over 800 attendees and 70 emerging businesses across beauty, fashion, wellness, handmade products, and lifestyle brands.

    “Beyond the numbers, what touched us most were the stories,” she said. “Young entrepreneurs who made their first major sales, brands that secured new partnerships, women who rediscovered their confidence. That was when we realised that Imose was more than an event. It was becoming a movement.”

     “At the heart of Imose is a simple conviction. That beauty is more than appearance, wellness is more than routine, fashion is more than fabric, and enterprise, when supported, becomes a pathway to dignity, confidence, and economic transformation.”

    Also speaking at the briefing, renowned Nigerian fashion designer, Mrs. Ejiro Amos-Tafiri, praised the initiative, describing it as a much-needed platform for women and young business owners.

    “Having a platform that is dedicated to uplifting beginners in the fashion, beauty, and wellness industry is very laudable,” she said. “She first supported my brand at an exhibition, and that relationship grew from there. What Imose represents is very important for the industry.”

    One of the exhibitors from the June edition, Jumoke Alaka, CEO of Imani Kids, recalled her experience, describing Imose as a turning point for her business.

    “During the exhibition, she went round every store and even sponsored sales. There were thoughtful gifts, cupcakes, pictures, and constant encouragement. After Imose, I became an ambassador because I kept telling everyone about it.”

    Alaka said that her Adire clothing line for children was first showcased and sold at Imose. “Since then, we have sold about 900 pieces. Imose made me feel seen again. I started my business in 2017, but Imose stood out for me,” she said, adding that she was also a beneficiary of an Air Peace business class ticket.

  • Concerned northern elders reject NEF position on FIRS

    Concerned northern elders reject NEF position on FIRS

    The Concerned Northern Elders Forum has disowned and criticised recent statements credited to the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) over the activities of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), describing the position as a misrepresentation of the true aspirations of the north.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by Dr Nasir Manguno, the group said it was compelled to address Nigerians in the interest of truth, responsibility, and historical accountability, warning that silence in the face of what it described as calculated distortion would amount to complicity.

    The elders stated that the so-called position of the NEF against the FIRS, its Executive Chairman, and the economic reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu neither reflects the collective conscience of Northern elders nor aligns with the progressive expectations of the region.

    According to the group, the NEF has lost its moral authority and has gradually transformed from a forum of wisdom into what it described as a platform for political grievances and sponsored opposition narratives.

    The elders insisted that leadership and elder statesmanship must be rooted in integrity, foresight, and national interest, not nostalgia for failed systems or entitlement to privilege.

    The statement praised the performance of the current Executive Chairman of the FIRS, noting that under his leadership, the agency has recorded consistent over-performance of revenue targets, strengthened non-oil revenue mobilisation, and deployed technology and data-driven strategies to block historic leakages.

    It added that the renewed emphasis on fairness and accountability has ensured that influence no longer guarantees exemption from taxation.

    The Concerned Northern Elders stressed that these achievements are verifiable and represent what Nigeria can accomplish when competence replaces complacency, arguing that opposition to such reforms is driven by those unsettled by efficiency and transparency.

    On the economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu, the group said the administration inherited an economy weakened by subsidy dependency, secrecy, and selective compliance. It commended the President for choosing courage over convenience by pursuing reforms it described as difficult but necessary for national recovery.

    The elders maintained that revenue reform is not punitive but central to nation-building, insisting that no country develops by shielding elites from responsibility or placing the burden of governance solely on the poor.

    The group also expressed full support for the Memorandum of Understanding entered into by the FIRS leadership to strengthen inter-agency collaboration, harmonise data systems, and eliminate duplication.

    It argued that any policy framework that promotes transparency, strengthens institutions, and enhances revenue efficiency is in the best interest of the North and Nigeria at large.

    Addressing what it termed the politics of sabotage, the elders said the renewed criticism of FIRS coincided with political recalibration by opposition interests seeking to weaponise the North against reform. They warned that the region would not allow itself to be used for partisan objectives.

    The statement emphasised that the true priorities of the North include job creation, infrastructure development, education, and accountability, rather than recycled rhetoric and inherited excuses. According to the elders, these aspirations require strong institutions, fair taxation, and fearless leadership.

    The group concluded by reaffirming its support for the Executive Chairman of the FIRS, President Tinubu’s economic reform agenda, and public servants committed to national interest over elite comfort, stressing that history favours reformers and not obstructionists.

    “The North is not against reform. The North is against failure, and it will not be dragged backward by voices sponsored to fear progress,” the statement said.

  • UNILAG medical, dental graduates unveil ₦30m intervention, mark 20 years after graduation

    UNILAG medical, dental graduates unveil ₦30m intervention, mark 20 years after graduation

    Medical and dental graduates of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), Class of 2004, have unveiled a week-long programme to mark 20 years of graduation, alongside a multi-million-naira intervention aimed at strengthening medical education and mentoring future healthcare professionals.

    Speaking at a press briefing to kick-start the anniversary activities, the chairman of the reunion and a consultant physician, Dr Dipo Ayedun, said the celebration, though coming 21 years after graduation, was an opportunity to reflect on the class’ professional journey and renew its commitment to service.

    He explained that the anniversary, themed “20 Years Strong: Reflecting on Our Journey, Inspiring the Future,” goes beyond a social reunion and represents a deliberate effort to give back to the institution that laid the foundation for their careers.

    “We are proud products of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos. Beyond celebrating how far we have come, we recognise our responsibility to inspire and support the next generation of doctors and dentists,” Ayedun said.

    Ayedun welcomed classmates who returned from across Nigeria and the diaspora, including Africa, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, noting that for many, it was the first physical reunion in nearly two decades.

    As part of the anniversary activities, the class renovated the 200-Level Lecture Hall, popularly known as the Platform Class, investing over ₦30 million to upgrade the facility.

    The lecture hall, regarded as pivotal to medical training at CMUL, has been refurbished with smart televisions, improved lighting, enhanced power supply, and a modern learning ambience aligned with international standards.

    Ayedun added that the intervention is anchored on three key pillars: infrastructure development, teaching and training, and mentorship.

    He explained that several members of the class currently serve as lecturers at CMUL, while others are committed to mentoring students and young doctors through structured engagements.

    “Through our symposium, we are exposing students to diverse career paths, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, showing that excellence is possible in multiple contexts,” he said.

    The programme of events includes courtesy visits to the Provost of CMUL and the Chief Medical Director of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), a scientific conference and symposium featuring keynote speakers drawn largely from the Class of 2004, informal bonding activities, and a grand finale dinner and awards night to celebrate excellence among members.

    Responding to questions on the ongoing brain drain in the health sector, Ayedun said the phenomenon was not unique to medicine, attributing it to structural issues such as poor funding, welfare, remuneration and gaps in residency training.

    He urged the government to address these challenges through improved budgetary allocation and sustained engagement with healthcare professionals.

    “Migration is not entirely negative. There is also brain gain when professionals in the diaspora contribute skills, knowledge and resources back home,” he said.

    On the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine, Ayedun noted that while AI should not replace clinical expertise, it could enhance access to care, especially in underserved areas.

    He disclosed that CMUL had developed an AI usage policy and deployed tools to detect unethical use by students, stressing the need for strong ethical standards and regulation.

    He also addressed concerns about strikes and disruptions in medical training, saying industrial actions affect morale and timelines but do not compromise the quality of graduates, as students are required to complete all mandatory clinical training.

    “Healthcare workers want to work. Strikes are always a last resort and often reflect deeper issues of welfare and working conditions,” he added.

    Earlier in his address, the Chairperson of the reunion, Dr Olayemi Dawodu, described the anniversary as a celebration of purpose, resilience, and recommitment to the ideals of medicine.

    She said the class’ greatest legacy would not be titles or personal achievements, but its willingness to mentor and uplift those coming behind.

    “Mentorship stands at the heart of this anniversary. We are committed to building intentional and sustained platforms that connect alumni with students and young doctors for career guidance, research support, wellness, and leadership development,” Dawodu said.

    She added that the give-back project was a practical expression of gratitude to the institution, pledging continued support for improved learning facilities, clinical training, and research capacity at CMUL.

    “As alumni of this great citadel of excellence, we remember where we started, and we are committed to paying it forward,” she said.

  • JUST IN: Ebonyi ACP slumps, dies during police management meeting

    JUST IN: Ebonyi ACP slumps, dies during police management meeting

    A senior police officer, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Ogbon-Inu Taiwo Popoola, has died while in active service in Ebonyi State.

    The incident occurred at about 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday during a management meeting at the office of the Commissioner of Police in Abakaliki, the state capital.

    Until his sudden death, ACP Popoola was the officer in charge of the State Intelligence Department (SID).

    Sources said he suddenly developed breathing difficulties and began gasping for breath during the meeting.

    He was immediately rushed to the Police Medical Centre at the Police Headquarters in Abakaliki, where he was promptly attended to by medical personnel.

    Despite efforts to resuscitate him, he was confirmed dead by doctors.

    Preliminary medical findings indicated that the cause of death was cardiac arrest, secondary to hypertensive heart disease.

    His remains have been deposited at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital (AE-FUTHA 1) mortuary in Abakaliki.

    The Ebonyi State Police Public Relations Officer, Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the death on Thursday.

    He said, “Yes, one of them had a crisis during a meeting and was rushed to the hospital. Unfortunately, he didn’t survive.

    Read Also: Police kill two kidnappers, rescue victim in Rivers

    “He was not sick before the incident. If he were sick, he wouldn’t have attended the meeting,” he added.

    Ukandu described the late ACP Popoola as a dedicated officer who served the Force with commitment and professionalism.

    He conveyed the condolences of the Police Commissioner and the entire Police Command in the state to the late Police Officer’s family.

  • Simba TVS partners Credicorp to empower 10,000 women as mobility entrepreneurs

    Simba TVS partners Credicorp to empower 10,000 women as mobility entrepreneurs

    Simba TVS, the pioneer of the Queen Riders programme, Nigeria’s largest women-focused automobile empowerment initiative, has strengthened its partnership with the Consumer Credit Corporation of Nigeria (CREDICORP) and Gamma Mobility in support of the Federal Government-led Mobility Programme aimed at economically empowering 10,000 women nationwide.

    The collaboration was officially launched in the Federal Capital Territory, where CREDICORP, in partnership with Gamma Mobility, Sub-city, handed over a fleet of “TVS King Deluxe Plus” Tricycles (popularly known as Keke), alongside certificates of proficiency, to women trained by Simba TVS as professional riders under the Queen Riders initiative.

    The Programme is designed to expand access to consumer credit while accelerating women’s participation in Nigeria’s commercial transport sector.

    Speaking on the Programme, Simba TVS management emphasised that the company intentionally prioritises women due to their critical role as drivers of economic growth.

    The Queen Riders Programme was described as a transformative initiative that empowers women through comprehensive tricycle riding training, technical capacity building, and entrepreneurship support.

    “At Simba TVS, women’s empowerment means access to skills, reliable tools, and real opportunities, a platform to express independence, confidence, and dignity. These TVS Tricycles are not just vehicles; they are income-generating assets that will enable women to build sustainable businesses, earn steady livelihoods, and support their families. We are proud to lead the Queen Riders Programme alongside partners who share our commitment to inclusive growth.”

    The management further reaffirmed that the Queen Riders initiative represents a broader societal movement that challenges long-standing barriers limiting women’s participation in the transportation sector.

    Simba TVS reiterated its long-term commitment to ensuring the Programme continues to open pathways for women in traditionally male-dominated industries, noting that inclusive economic participation is critical to national development.

    Speaking at the event, CREDICORP Managing Director Uzoma Nwagba highlighted the long-standing relationship between CREDICORP and Simba TVS, noting that the partnership has been built on trust, shared values, and a commitment to delivering practical mobility solutions.

    He revealed that the CREDICORP leadership has undertaken several visits to the Simba TVS assembly plant in Lagos, which, according to him, reinforced confidence in the company’s manufacturing standards, local capacity, and long-term commitment to Nigeria’s mobility and industrial development.

    Engr. Nwagba explained that the initiative deliberately integrates consumer credit, asset provision, professional training, and structured business support, adding that Gamma Mobility plays a critical role in programme execution and operational support, ensuring that beneficiaries are well-positioned for long-term success.

    Beneficiaries of the programme expressed appreciation to Simba TVS, CREDICORP, and Gamma Mobility, with one participant stating that the initiative gave her the confidence to pursue a livelihood she once believed was unattainable.

    She noted that the training and support she received equipped her with essential riding and basic maintenance skills, enabling her to contribute meaningfully to her household income.

    The Queen Riders Programme is a women-focused empowerment initiative by Simba TVS that provides training, certification, and access to tricycles for women from underrepresented backgrounds, unlocking pathways to financial independence and economic resilience.

    Simba TVS Queen Riders, empowering women, enriching lives, and strengthening the nation.

  • Fidson launches N21bn rights issue to boost capacity, expand across Africa

    Fidson launches N21bn rights issue to boost capacity, expand across Africa

    Fidson Healthcare Plc, Nigeria’s leading pharmaceutical manufacturer, has formally launched its highly anticipated Rights Issue, following the receipt of final regulatory approvals from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).

    The signing ceremony, held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the company’s head office in Lagos, marks a major milestone in Fidson’s growth strategy.

    The Rights Issue is expected to raise N21 billion in gross proceeds, providing fresh capital to strengthen production capacity, drive product innovation, and accelerate the company’s pan-African expansion plans.

    Under the offer, Fidson is issuing 600 million new ordinary shares of 50 kobo each at N35 per share. The shares are being offered to existing shareholders based on one new ordinary share for every four ordinary shares held as of the close of business on November 12, 2025, which serves as the qualification date.

    The capital raise came on the back of a strong financial performance that underscores Fidson’s growing dominance in the Nigerian and West African pharmaceutical markets.

    For the nine months ended September 30, 2025, the company recorded a 132 percent year-on-year increase in profit after tax to N7.97 billion. Revenue rose by 56 per cent to N93.08 billion, driven by robust demand and wider market reach, while operating profit surged 92 per cent to N16.95 billion, reflecting improved efficiency and cost discipline.

    Speaking at the event, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Biola Adebayo, described the Rights Issue as a pivotal step in Fidson’s long-term growth journey.

    “The successful formalisation of this N21 billion Rights Issue marks a critical milestone for Fidson. This capital will cement our position as the foremost healthcare company in Nigeria and a dominant player across Africa,” he said, adding that the company’s recent performance demonstrates its capacity to innovate and deliver sustainable value.

    Finance Director, Mr. Imokha Ayebae, said the offer was deliberately structured to be attractive and accessible to existing investors. He noted that proceeds would be deployed judiciously to optimise operations, upgrade technology, and expand product lines, urging eligible shareholders to exercise their rights within the offer period.

    Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of CardinalStone Partners Limited, the lead issuing house, Mr. Michael Nzewi, highlighted Fidson’s equity market journey. He pointed out that the company’s last capital raise in 2019 was priced at N4.50 per share, compared with the current offer price of N35, which still represents a discount to the prevailing market price.

    According to him, this reflects the strong growth trajectory of Fidson’s stock and its appeal to long-term investors. Shareholders listed on the register as of the qualification date are advised to complete the official participation form and submit it, along with full payment, to their stockbrokers or designated receiving agents before the closing date. With the Rights Issue, Fidson reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening pharmaceutical manufacturing in Nigeria, creating value for shareholders, and advancing innovation across the healthcare value chain.

  • Police kill two kidnappers, rescue victim in Rivers

    Police kill two kidnappers, rescue victim in Rivers

    The Rivers State Police Command has rescued a female kidnapped victim and killed two of the assailants in the state during a fierce battle.

    A statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said the victim, who hails from Omademe community, was abducted on December 5 along Ozuaha Road in Emohua Local Government Area of the state.

    Operatives of the command attached to the Anti-Cultism Unit (ACU) Emohua Annex were said to have carried out the operation acting on a tip-off.

    The statement said, “According to reports from the victim’s brother on December 9, 2025, seeking assistance in securing his sister’s release. That the abductors had demanded a ransom of N1.2m, threatening to kill the victim if the payment was not made promptly.

    “The Police Operatives, determined to bring the perpetrators to justice, swiftly mobilized and executed a carefully planned operation to rescue the victim. At about 1130hrs, the police team, led by seasoned Operatives, utilizing intelligence-led operations, covertly stormed the kidnapper’s hideout located in a forested area, off Ozuaha Road, and met the suspected kidnappers sharing the ransom.

    “Upon sighting the Police Operatives, the kidnappers, who were heavily armed, opened gunfire, leading to a fierce exchange of gun battles. The police, displaying exemplary bravery and professionalism, neutralized two of the kidnappers, while others fled into the forest with varying degrees of gunshot wounds. The victim was rescued unhurt, and part of the ransom was recovered.”

    The statement said one pump-action rifle, five live cartridges, two expended cartridges, and one locally-made pistol.

    The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, commended the bravery and dedication of the operatives involved in the operation, saying they put their lives on the line to ensure the safe rescue of the victim.

    He reassured the public of the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order in the state and urged anyone with credible information about the fleeing suspects to come forward and assist the police.

    The CP further directed that the investigation be expedited, and the fleeing suspects be apprehended, recover the remaining ransom, and be brought to justice. 

  • FG, state govts chart strategies to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss at 18th NCE meeting

    FG, state govts chart strategies to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss at 18th NCE meeting

    The Federal and state governments on Thursday outlined strategies to address the challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution at the 18th National Council on Environment (NCE) meeting, hosted by the Federal Ministry of Environment in Katsina State.

    The three-day meeting, held at the Katsina State Secretariat, brought together commissioners, environmental experts, policymakers, and development partners from across the country.

    With the theme “Tackling the Triple Planetary Crises of Climate Change, Biodiversity Loss, and Pollution for Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” the council meeting served as a high-level platform for discussions on strengthening environmental governance and promoting sustainable development nationwide.

    Participants deliberated extensively on measures to mitigate climate change impacts, conserve biodiversity, and curb environmental pollution, while stressing the need for coordinated and sustained action by federal, state, and local governments.

    The Director-General of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke, who participated in the meeting, described the engagement as timely and impactful.

    He commended the Federal Ministry of Environment for convening the council, noting that the resolutions reached would enhance inter-agency collaboration and strengthen responses to environmental challenges, particularly in oil spill management and pollution control.

    Also speaking, the Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, thanked participants and praised Katsina State for its improved environmental performance, noting its rise from 24th position in 2024 to second place in 2025 among Nigeria’s 36 states.

    He described the development as a demonstration of leadership in climate governance and environmental management.

    Lawal stressed that climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution are interconnected crises posing serious threats to Nigeria’s environment, economy, and citizens.

    He highlighted federal initiatives such as the Nigerian Energy Transition Plan, the Great Green Wall Programme, the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management, and the National Adaptation Plans, all of which emphasise clean cooking solutions to reduce deforestation and protect the health of women and children in rural communities.

    The minister noted that Nigeria faces diverse environmental challenges, including desertification in the north, gully erosion in the Middle Belt, and coastal erosion and rising sea levels in the south, with some communities already submerged.

    He further emphasised that government funding alone is insufficient, calling for innovative financing options such as public-private partnerships, green bonds, climate funds, and voluntary carbon markets.

    He urged states to explore green bonds and deepen private-sector engagement to support practical environmental projects.

    Lawal called on stakeholders to ensure that council deliberations translate into practical, measurable, and actionable outcomes, stressing that environmental protection is central to public health, economic growth, and sustainable development.

    The 18th NCE meeting ended with renewed commitments by stakeholders to implement policies and strategies aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s environment and promoting sustainable development.