The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Spain remains key strategic partner for Africa–Europe relations, says Tuggar

    Spain remains key strategic partner for Africa–Europe relations, says Tuggar

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has reaffirmed Spain’s role as a strategic partner and a vital bridge between Africa and Europe.

    Tuggar disclosed this during an engagement with the leadership of CEOE, Spain’s foremost business confederation, where he assured Spanish investors that Nigeria’s economy is steadily stabilising through ongoing structural reforms, diversification efforts, and strengthened macroeconomic coordination.

    Currently in Spain to lead Nigeria’s delegation in talks with Spanish investors, the minister encouraged them to explore opportunities in the Nigerian market.

    A statement by the minister’s media aide, Alkasim Abdulkadir, outlined several priority sectors identified as promising investment targets for Spanish businesses.

    The statement read, “In energy and gas, Nigeria’s vast reserves underpin opportunities across LNG, power generation, petrochemicals, fertilisers, and the energy transition, including major cross-border initiatives such as the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline and the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline. In agriculture and agro-processing, opportunities span mechanisation, food processing, cold-chain logistics, and export-oriented agribusiness.

    “Infrastructure and industrial development were also identified as key areas, particularly through public–private partnerships in transport, logistics, and special economic zones. Nigeria further positioned itself as an emerging hub for Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), citing its young, English-speaking, digitally skilled workforce capable of supporting customer services, shared services, and IT outsourcing for European markets. Technology, fintech, digital infrastructure, creative industries, and professional services were also presented as high-growth sectors.

    Read Also: Yusuf Tuggar’s diplomatic prowess

    “Addressing Spanish business leaders, Nigeria underscored its appreciation of CEOE’s role as the institutional backbone of Spain’s productive economy, while highlighting the growing alignment between Nigeria’s reform-driven economic agenda and Spain’s outward-looking private sector.

    “Officials noted that Nigeria’s economy is steadily stabilising and repositioning through structural reforms, diversification, and stronger macroeconomic coordination. Growth is increasingly driven by non-oil sectors, including agriculture, services, manufacturing, technology, and global services. With a population exceeding 200 million, over 70 per cent making up a very young demography.

    “Nigeria stressed its relevance to Spanish business as Africa’s largest market and a natural gateway to West and Central Africa. Through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), investments anchored in Nigeria can serve a continental market of more than 1.3 billion people.

    “The country emphasised its preference for productive, long-term capital, technology transfer, and partnerships that deepen value chains, rather than short-term or speculative engagement.

    “On migration and labour mobility, Nigeria reiterated that it does not encourage irregular migration, favouring instead structured and legal mobility aligned with labour market needs. Spain’s circular migration framework was commended as consistent with long-standing West African labour practices. Properly managed labour mobility, Nigeria noted, can enhance business competitiveness, reduce irregular migration flows, and strengthen bilateral trust.

    “The Nigerian delegation also pointed to ongoing policy reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business, regulatory transparency, and investor protection. Investors were assured of incentives, sector-specific support, expanding infrastructure, and a strong emphasis on diaspora- and skills-based investment that connects global expertise with domestic opportunity.

    CEOE was invited to play a catalytic role by encouraging Spanish firms to view Nigeria not merely as an export destination, but as a production and services base; by supporting joint ventures and SME partnerships; and by helping shape a more balanced Europe–Africa economic narrative founded on mutual benefit.”

  • Funke Akindele’s ‘Behind The Scenes’ becomes West Africa’s highest-grossing film

    Funke Akindele’s ‘Behind The Scenes’ becomes West Africa’s highest-grossing film

    Actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele’s movie ‘Behind The Scenes’ has officially become the highest-grossing film of all time in West Africa, surpassing her own 2024 release ‘Everybody Loves Jenifa’, which made N1.8bn in cinemas.

    As of Monday, the film grossed over N1.77 billion in under four weeks, breaking multiple records, including the highest single-day gross on Boxing Day with N129.5 million.

    Now updating fans, the distribution company, FilmOne, on Thursday, wrote, “All hail the box office queen. Behind the Scenes has officially become the highest-grossing film of all time in West Africa.

    Read Also: Bod Olaibi, Don Jazzy, Funke Akindele ranked among Africa’s top 50 visibility leaders

    “We are beyond proud. To every single person who bought a ticket, showed up, told a friend, and believed in this story …this win is because of YOU. Thank you for making cinema history with us.”

    This achievement marks Akindele’s third film to cross the N1 billion threshold.

    The movie’s success is attributed to its strong audience turnout and strategic advanced screenings ahead of its December 12 nationwide release.

    The film features a star-studded cast, including Scarlet Gomez, Iyabo Ojo, and Tobi Bakre.

  • Rivers: Wike hails Tinubu over construction of Bonny road

    Rivers: Wike hails Tinubu over construction of Bonny road

    • …says decades of suffering has ended

    Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, on Thursday, praised President Bola Tinubu for ending decades of suffering crossing the Bonny Island in Rivers State.

    Wike gave the commendation during his “thank you” visit to the Bonny Local Government Area of the state.

    The 37.8 km Bodo-Bonny Road project, now open to vehicular movements, provides the first-ever land connection to Bonny Island, a major oil and gas hub in Rivers State.

    The minister pointed out that the road has been a political road for decades, with many failed promises by previous administrations, until the Tinubu administration took the bold step to complete it.

    He applauded the Minister of Works, David Umahi, for ensuring that Tinubu’s dream becomes a reality.

    “Before, each time we wanted to come to Bonny for a campaign, we would look at ourselves and say, ‘How is the tide?’ Even in a helicopter, I will see the ocean and say God, let me come back today.

    “But today, as we are coming here, I say God, may you be glorified, and with this, tell me why Bonny people will not support Mr President?

    “Bonny people, God’s time is the best, and God’s time has come. You will continue to benefit from Tinubu’s administration,” he said.

    Wike advised the people not to be distracted by the current political crisis in the state, stressing that, “In politics, there is always disagreement. What is important is to disagree and agree.

    “When a place is united, you will see the benefits that would accrue to the people. As leaders, continue to work together so you will continue to bring more things for the people of Bonny.”

    Read Also: 2027: Rainbow Coalition will fill all elective positions in Rivers, says Wike

    Earlier, Mr Cyril Heart, representing Degema-Bonny Federal Constituency, commended Wike for championing women’s inclusion in governance in Rivers State and the country at large.

    Describing the move as an “unspoken legacy” of the minister, the lawmaker recalled how Wike insisted that women must be vice chairmen of local government councils in Rivers State.

    He said the National Assembly was making efforts to replicate what the minister did in Rivers State, through a bill that would institutionalise women’s inclusion in governance across the country.

    Also, Chairman of Bonny Local Government Council, Abinye Pepple, described Wike as the most “dependable, reliable and cheerful leader” of Rivers politics.

    Pepple commended the minister for the numerous projects he executed in the area during his tenure as the governor.

    He equally commended the minister for being the first to give the Ijaw people the opportunity to be governor in Rivers State.

    Pepple said, “Also, for the first time in history, our people can drive from Bonny to Port Harcourt. This is an overwhelming experience.

    “My father and mother didn’t experience that, but through you, Mr President has completed that project, and now you can come to Bonny through land, through water, and through air.

    “For this and many others, we will deliver Bonny to Tinubu in 2027.”

    The people of Bonny were happy and vowed to re-elect Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

  • NUPRC to determine 2025 licensing round bid winners procedures January 14

    NUPRC to determine 2025 licensing round bid winners procedures January 14

    The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) will, on January 14, 2026, determine its procedures for the assessment of the 2025 Licensing Round.

    This was contained in the announcement of the Lagos pre-bid conference the commission issued yesterday.

    NUPRC said, “The focus areas of the upcoming pre-bid conference include the implementation timetable, the bid package preparation, eligibility terms, and the assessment and winners determination procedure.”

    It also said, “The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has officially announced a pre-bid conference for the ongoing 2025 licensing round. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM at the Grand Ballroom, Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos.

    Besides a statement signed by the Commission Chief Executive, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, and dated 8th January, 2026, said the conference serves as a follow-up to earlier notices published in local and international newspapers, in line with the requirements of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

    She added, “This announcement is sequel to a notice already published by the NUPRC in foreign and local newspapers in line with the Petroleum Industry Act. The focus areas of the upcoming pre-bid conference include: The implementation timetable, the bid package preparation, eligibility terms, the assessment, and the winners’ determination procedure.

    Recall that last year, the NUPRC announced the commencement of the bid process, which had a six-month timeline on December 1.

    One of the highlights of the expectations was that it was designed to attract $10 billion in investments in the next 10 years.

    Read Also: Wike hails Tinubu overnomination of Abe, Kobani as NUPRC, NMDPRA chairmen

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

    On December 8, 2025, NUPRC announced that the minimum financial requirement for an entity to participate in the 2025 licensing round is an average of $100 million for deep offshore blocks, while an average of $40 million is required for onshore and shallow water blocks.

    This was contained in the “FAQ’s on the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC’s) 2025 Licensing Round.”

    The document, which was released virtually, said, “Average annual turnover of USD$100,000,000.00 for deep offshore blocks and USD$40, 000,000 for onshore and shallow water blocks or

     “Minimum Cash in bank of USD$100,000,000.00 for deep offshore blocks and USD$40,000,000.00 for onshore and shallow water blocks, or Bank Guarantee to the tune of USD$100,000,000.00 for deep offshore, USD$40,000,000.00 for onshore, and shallow water blocks, or

    “For newly incorporated companies, a parent company guarantee to the tune of USD$100,000,000.00 in deep offshore, USD$40,000,000.00 in onshore and shallow water.”

    NUPRC also said that from the $10 million per block charge in the 2024 oil block bid round, the Federal Government has reduced the signature bonus to between a minimum of $3 million and a maximum of $7 million in the 2025 bid round.

    This is an indication of a 70 percent and 30 percent crash, according to the document.

    According to NUPRC, “The Nigerian government has graciously reduced the signature bonus to between $3 million and $7 million.”

    The document noted that the Minister of Petroleum Resources has approved the new signature bonus to reduce entry barriers.

    “All Bidders shall be required to submit a bid within a range of $3 million and $7 million as approved by the Minister of Petroleum for the reduction of entry barriers,” said NUPRC.

    The document explicitly stated that the designated signature bonus account is United States dollar- denominated, an indication that it is not denominated in local currency (Naira).

    NUPRC said the exercise is a score-based approach, taking into consideration the following parameters: Signature bonus (provided it is within the prescribed limit), and Work programme.

    It also said the score-based approach considers unit cost per barrel with reference to the work programme, professionalism, human and technical capacity.

    It also looked into the percentage of bank guarantees made available, the balance sheet, Turnover, Green story, decarbonisation programme, and corporate governance structure.

    NUPRC said no bidder, whether participating individually or as a member of any consortium, shall submit applications for more than two assets in total across all applications.

    It stressed, “Participation in more than one consortium shall count towards this limit. For the avoidance of doubt, where a company has equity, direct or indirect ownership, or management involvement in multiple consortium vehicles, all such applications shall be aggregated and treated as a single bidder’s application.”

    The document said the applicant’s Technical Competence will be evaluated using work experience across the under-listed work areas: Geological and geophysical capabilities; drilling and well engineering, reservoir evaluation and management; production engineering and technology;   Development planning and facilities engineering and management.

  • Police kill notorious bandit in Benue, foil kidnap attempt, arrest eight in cult clash

    Police kill notorious bandit in Benue, foil kidnap attempt, arrest eight in cult clash

    The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the killing of a notorious bandit during a gun battle with operatives in Ukum Local Government Area after an attempted kidnapping incident.

    In a statement on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, said the confrontation occurred at about 11:43 a.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, following credible intelligence that armed bandits had been sighted around Channel Two, Zaki-Biam, plotting to abduct a hotelier.

    Operatives from the Ukum Division were deployed to the area, but the bandits opened fire upon sighting the patrol team, triggering a shootout. According to the police, one of the suspects was fatally injured after officers responded with superior firepower.

    Read Also: Police rescue man abducted by bandits in Ondo

    A locally fabricated Beretta pistol, two rounds of live 9mm ammunition, and a bag of charms were recovered from the scene.

    The injured suspect was taken to the General Hospital in Zaki-Biam, where he was confirmed dead. He was later identified as Terkaa Samuel, a notorious bandit from Jandekyula in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.

    The police said additional patrol and tactical units have been deployed to track fleeing members of the gang, some of whom may have sustained gunshot wounds.

    In a separate operation earlier that day, operatives of the Jato-Aka Division responded to a violent clash between rival cult groups, Red and Black, which resulted in two deaths and several injuries.

    Eight suspects were arrested, while recovered items included a locally fabricated pistol, an expended cartridge, two axes, and two machetes. Injured victims were taken for medical treatment, and efforts to apprehend other fleeing suspects are ongoing.

    The Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, reassured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property and urged the public to continue providing timely and credible information to aid policing efforts.

  • Tinubu applauds NGX N100 trillion milestone, urges Nigerians to invest more at home

    Tinubu applauds NGX N100 trillion milestone, urges Nigerians to invest more at home

    • …says NGX outperformed global markets as reforms boost investor confidence
    • …projects lower inflation, stronger naira, and higher returns in 2026
    • …urges deeper local investment as market cap signals economic rejuvenation

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised corporate Nigeria, investors, and other stakeholders in the capital market for pushing the Nigerian Exchange past the historic N100 trillion market capitalization mark, describing the achievement as a powerful signal of renewed confidence in the Nigerian economy.

    In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president said the milestone marked an inspiration for the investing public in the money and capital markets and urged Nigerians to deepen their investments in the domestic economy, assuring that 2026 would deliver even stronger returns as his administration’s economic reforms mature.

    “With the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) crossing the historic N100 trillion market capitalisation mark, the country is witnessing the birth of a new economic reality and rejuvenation,” Tinubu said.

    He noted that the performance of the Exchange in 2025 stood out globally despite difficult conditions in many economies.

    “In 2025, while many of the world’s markets struggled with stagnation or tepid recovery, the NGX All-Share Index was on the ascent. It closed 2025 with a 51.19% return, higher than the 37.65% recorded in 2024. This performance ranks among the highest in the world. Year-to-date returns have significantly outpaced the S&P 500, the FTSE 100, and even many of our emerging-market peers in the BRICS+ group,” President Tinubu said.

    According to him, the rally underscores a fundamental shift in how Nigeria is perceived by global investors.

    “Nigeria is no longer a frontier market to be ignored—it is now a compelling destination where value is being discovered. As the stock market reflects the entire economy, its stellar performance is a significant indicator of the country’s economic health and the confidence investors have in our economy,” he said.

    Tinubu said the gains were broad-based across sectors, pointing to resilience and innovation among listed firms, saying, “On the NGX, we have witnessed remarkable performances from listed companies across all sectors.

    “From blue-chip industrial giants that have localised their supply chains, to a banking sector that has demonstrated resilience and technological innovation, Nigerian companies are proving that the country can deliver strong returns on investment,” he said.

    He added that the outlook for new listings remained strong, with major implications for market depth and ownership, adding, “And we are just getting started.

    “The pipeline for new and upcoming listings looks robust. More indigenous energy firms, tech unicorns, telecoms, and infrastructure-heavy entities are seeking to access the public market to fund their expansion. As these firms are listed, they will boost market capitalisation and deepen democratic ownership of the Nigerian economy,” he said.

    Beyond equities, the President linked the market rally to wider macroeconomic improvements flowing from his reform agenda.

    “We are not celebrating the superlative stock market performance in isolation. We are also celebrating the microeconomic effects of our reforms. After the initial headwinds that followed our reforms, we are finally seeing a bend in the inflation curve. Crucial monetary tightening and the removal of distortionary ‘Ways and Means’ financing have restored stability to the Naira,” he said.

    He said policy actions and sectoral investments were already yielding results, adding, “Furthermore, investments in the agriculture sector have contributed to a consistent decline in inflation over the past eight months. From a 24-month high of 34.8% in December 2024, inflation decelerated to 14.45% as of November 2025, with projections indicating it will reach 12% in 2026.

    “Indeed, inflation is likely to fall below 10 per cent before the end of this year, leading to improved living standards and accelerated GDP growth. The year 2026 promises to be an epochal year for delivering prosperity to all Nigerians,” he said.

    Tinubu also highlighted improvements in Nigeria’s external position, citing current account and trade data.

    “Also noteworthy is the status of our nation’s current account, a valid measure of our overall economic health. In 2024, Nigeria posted a surplus of $16 billion. According to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), our current account balance is projected to rise to $18.81 billion in 2026, up from $16.94 billion in 2025,” he pointed out.

    On exports and reserves, the President said Nigeria was increasingly producing and trading more competitively, saying, “under our administration, Nigeria is exporting more and importing less of what we can produce locally. Non-oil exports surged by 48% by the third quarter of 2025, totalling N9.2 trillion. Exports to Africa alone rose by 97% to N4.9 trillion. Manufacturing exports increased by 67% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2025, suggesting a strong close to the year.

    “Nigeria’s foreign reserves have crossed the $45 billion mark, giving the Central Bank the firepower to maintain stability. The Naira has stabilised, moving away from the volatility that once fuelled speculation. The Central Bank of Nigeria, in its latest outlook, projects foreign reserves will cross the $50 billion threshold in the first quarter of 2026,” he added.

    The president also drew attention to infrastructure and social sector improvements underway, saying, “We are also seeing an expansion of the rail networks, the completion of major arterial roads, and the revitalisation of our ports. With the transformative Lagos-Calabar and Sokoto-Badgry superhighways, the nation’s infrastructure is growing.”

    He said progress was also being recorded in healthcare and education.

    “Our medicare facilities are improving, and medical tourism costs are declining. Our students benefit from the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), and universities are receiving increased research grants,” he said.

    Framing the NGX milestone within a broader national journey, Tinubu said, “Nation-building is a process, not a destination. Hard work, sacrifices, and the focus of its citizens build a nation. The N100 trillion market capitalisation is a signal to the world that the Nigerian economy is robust and productive.

    “As your leader, I pledge to continue working unrelentingly to build an egalitarian, transparent, and high-growth economy that will be further catalysed by the historic tax and fiscal reforms that came into full implementation from January 1″, the President said in reaffirming his commitment.

  • ‘It’s tough for me, tougher for their parents’ – Anthony Joshua mourns friends

    ‘It’s tough for me, tougher for their parents’ – Anthony Joshua mourns friends

    Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has paid an emotional tribute to his friends Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, who lost their lives in a car crash in Nigeria on December 29.

    Joshua, a passenger in the vehicle, survived the accident and expressed his grief on social media.

    In a post on X, Joshua expressed his shock and sorrow, stating that it’s tough for him, but even tougher for their parents.

    He thanked those who supported the families, reflecting on the special bond he shared with his friends.

    He wrote, “Thank you for all the love and care you have shown my brothers. I didn’t even realise how special they are. I’ll just be walking with them and cracking jokes with them, not even knowing God kept me in the presence of great men.

    “100% it’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents. I have a strong mind, and I believe God knows their hearts. May God have mercy on my brothers.”

    Joshua recently opened up about the tragedy, revealing the loss still hasn’t sunk in.

    Before their deaths, Ghami was his strength and conditioning coach, while Ayodele was his personal trainer.

  • Rivers speaker threatens resignation as Assembly moves to impeach Fubara

    Rivers speaker threatens resignation as Assembly moves to impeach Fubara

    Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, has declared that he and 25 other lawmakers will resign if the Assembly fails to remove Governor Siminialayi Fubara in the current impeachment move.

    Amaewhule made the statement during Thursday’s plenary in Port Harcourt, insisting that both the Governor and his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Ordu, are included in the impeachment plan.

    He maintained that it would be preferable for lawmakers to step aside rather than allow what he described as attempts by Fubara to short-change the people of Rivers State.

    Read Also: APC group demands halt to impeachment move against Fubara

    He stated that the political turmoil in the state is not a confrontation between Minister Nyesom Wike and the Governor, but a conflict between Fubara and the constitution.

    The lawmakers have now formally initiated impeachment proceedings against the Governor and his Deputy, accusing them of gross constitutional violations and describing the Governor as a threat to democratic principles. All 26 lawmakers have reportedly signed the impeachment notice.

    Rivers State has remained unsettled since Fubara’s reinstatement after serving a six-month suspension. Wike, in a recent public address, said he would not interfere with lawmakers should they choose to proceed with the impeachment.

  • Tinubu hails NRS chairman, Zacch Adedeji, on birthday

    Tinubu hails NRS chairman, Zacch Adedeji, on birthday

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Zacch Adedeji, on his birthday, commending his leadership and reforms at the country’s foremost revenue institution.

    In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised Adedeji’s stewardship of the 83-year-old agency, citing the introduction of fresh ideas, adoption of global best practices, automation of systems, and sustained upskilling of staff as key drivers of improved performance.

    “I salute the NRS Chairman for his visionary and charismatic dedication in restructuring, aligning, and managing the revenue profile of the country,” the President said.

    According to Tinubu, Adedeji recorded a historic milestone by meeting national revenue targets in the third quarter of 2025, an outcome he said contributed to economic stimulation and broader prospects for prosperity.

    Read Also: 2025: A good year for FIRS, Zacch Adedeji

    The President also highlighted Adedeji’s role in advancing the National Single Window, a federal digital platform designed to streamline import and export processes, enhance transparency, and reduce cargo clearance timelines from about 21 days to one week.

    Tinubu noted that the initiative has been pivotal to trade facilitation and efficiency at Nigeria’s ports, aligning the country with international standards in customs and border administration.

    Adedeji’s professional background spans the public and private sectors.

    He previously served as a senior management executive at Procter & Gamble, Commissioner of Finance in Oyo State, and Executive Secretary of the National Sugar Development Council, where he established the National Sugar Institute.

    Before he was appointed chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service in September 2023, Adedeji also served as Special Adviser to the President on Revenue.

    President Tinubu prayed for continued good health, wisdom, and strength for the revenue chief, urging him to sustain his service to the nation in pursuit of fiscal stability and growth.

  • Adeyanju commends Tinubu over Oyedepo’s appointment as director of public prosecutions

    Adeyanju commends Tinubu over Oyedepo’s appointment as director of public prosecutions

    Human rights activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has commended President Bola Tinubu over the appointment of Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, as the new Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

    In a statement on Thursday, Adeyanju described the appointment as a positive step toward strengthening the rule of law and reforming Nigeria’s justice sector.

    He said Oyedepo’s “demonstrated independence of mind” makes him well-suited for a position that plays a central role in the administration of justice.

    Read Also: Niger youths solidly behind Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda — Limateef

    “By entrusting such a sensitive office to a seasoned professional, the President has shown that reform of the justice sector can be driven by capacity and respect for due process,” Adeyanju said.

    According to him, the decision signals a commitment to professionalism and could help rebuild public confidence in the prosecution system.

    “It is a step in the right direction and one that, if sustained, can help restore faith in public prosecutions as a tool for justice,” he added.

    Adeyanju concluded that the appointment “deserves to be applauded,” urging that merit-based decisions continue to guide key appointments in the justice sector.