Category: Business

  • Terra Cube hosts BBNaija season 10 Housemates

    Terra Cube hosts BBNaija season 10 Housemates

    Big Brother Naija remains one of the biggest reality TV shows in Nigeria and across Africa, a cultural powerhouse with millions of viewers who tune in weekly to connect, compete, and celebrate authenticity. It is a show that captures the energy of young Nigerians, their resilience, and their love for shared moments.

    In the same way, Terra Seasoning Cube has become one of Nigeria’s favourite household brands, bringing people together through flavour, connection, and joy. Both Big Brother Naija and Terra celebrate everyday Nigerian life, the spirit of teamwork, the beauty of shared experiences, and the joy that comes from genuine connection. These shared values make the partnership between Terra and Big Brother Naija a perfect fusion, where entertainment meets everyday joy, and where the brand truly connects with consumers across the nation.

    Read Also: BBNaija’s Tuoyo alleges brutal treatment by NDLEA operatives during nightclub raid

    While most partnerships end when the show wraps up, Terra’s story goes beyond the screen. Recently, the brand hosted Team Unwrap Joy, winners of the Terra Task Night, including Season 10 winner Imisioluwa, at the Tropical General Investments (TGI) Group office in Lagos. The visit, part of a pre-planned post-show engagement, symbolized how the Terra, BBNaija partnership continues to live on. It was also the beginning of a broader CSR activity designed to inspire the housemates to identify social issues within their communities and create meaningful impact projects that align with Terra’s philosophy of spreading joy.

    The housemates were given an exclusive review of the brand’s operations and engaged with the TGI team in a lively atmosphere streamed live on Instagram, where fans shared their excitement and continued the conversation online.

  • Coalition calls for stronger accountability systems to drive inclusive economic growth

    Coalition calls for stronger accountability systems to drive inclusive economic growth

    A coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) has called for stronger accountability systems to drive inclusive economic growth at both federal and state levels.

     The coalition made the call during the third edition of the Nigeria Accountability Summit (NAS) in Abuja.

    The summit with the theme: “Strengthening Accountability for Inclusive Economic Growth,” NAS 2025 brought together over 400 participants from national and subnational governments, the private sector, academia, media, and civil society to assess Nigeria’s policy implementation progress, spotlight accountability gaps, and propose actionable reforms.

    The 2025 summit built on the momentum of the 2023 and 2024 editions by narrowing focus on two of the Federal Government’s 8-Point Agenda priorities where accountability can unlock outsized gains: Economic Growth and Job Creation, and the Fight Against Corruption.

    Read Also: Experts call for national care framework to unlock economic power

    It was organised by the Paradigm Leadership Support Initiative, in partnership with BudgIT Foundation, Connected Development, Dataphyte, Accountability Lab Nigeria, Agora Policy, Public and Private Development Centre, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, Step Up Nigeria, Centre for Journalism, Innovation and Development, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, Nigerian Institute for Social and Economic Research (NISER), and the INTOSAI Development Initiative.

    The summit underscored the urgent need for transparency, efficiency, and citizen-centered governance in Nigeria’s development trajectory.

    In his welcome remarks, Executive Director of PLSI, Olusegun Elemo emphasized the summit’s role in consolidating accountability reforms.

    He said: “Nigeria is at a crossroads. While reforms since 2023 have brought fiscal stabilization and policy shifts, accountability remains the missing link in translating revenues and borrowings into jobs, infrastructure, and improved welfare.

  • Facts behind Q3 2025 performance of Transcorp Hotels Plc

    Facts behind Q3 2025 performance of Transcorp Hotels Plc

    The success or otherwise of businesses within the hospitality ecosystem is a combination of factors, bordering on the complex to the superficial, such that it is trite to say that those who can make a success of their ventures are those who understand the fundamentals of the business itself.

    The above wisecrack becomes apposite in describing the situation with Transcorp Hotels Plc (“Transcorp Hotels” or “the Company”), the hospitality subsidiary of Africa’s leading, listed conglomerate, Transnational Corporation Plc. The recently released unaudited results for the 3rd quarter ended September 30, 2025, showed some positive performance measured across key metrics.

    A cursory review of the result showed that the Company delivered N72.31 billion in revenue, a 49% increase from N48.49 billion in Q3 2024, while Profit Before Tax (PBT) surged 36% to N22.4 billion.

    This strong performance reflects Transcorp Hotels’ sustained focus on operational excellence, cost efficiency, and customer-centric innovation, reinforcing its leadership in Nigeria’s hospitality sector. Its recently commissioned 5,000-seat Transcorp Centre is fast positioning Nigeria as Africa’s hub for world-class Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE).

    Expectedly, Chairman, Transcorp Hotels Plc, Emmanuel Nnorom said: “This impressive Q3 performance underscores our time-tested strategy focused on cost discipline, operational efficiency, and putting the customer at the heart of everything we do. We remain committed to delivering sustainable profitability and long-term value for our investors.”

    On her part, Transcorp Hotels Plc Managing Director, Uzoamaka Oshogwe, said that the Q3 2025 results reflected the company’s unwavering drive for excellence and our commitment to redefining hospitality in Africa.

    “With the success of our newly commissioned 5,000-seat event centre, we are proud to be positioning Nigeria as the preferred destination for global conferences and events, while scaling sustainable value for our shareholders.”

    With its iconic hospitality assets and dedicated team, Transcorp Hotels continues to strengthen its leadership in the sector, setting new standards for growth, innovation, and service excellence in the power, hospitality, and energy sectors. Transcorp Hotels is redefining hospitality standards in Africa through its businesses, including the iconic Transcorp Hilton Abuja, Nigeria’s flagship hospitality destination, and digital platform, Aura by Transcorp Hotels.

    Expatiating, Oshogwe said, “The impressive half-year result speaks to the hard work and resilience of our entire team. It reflects a strong, well-executed strategy focused on operational efficiency and a relentless pursuit of excellence across all our business units. Our high occupancy rates and the strong patronage of our diverse F&B (Food and Beverages) outlets, combined with the successful launch of the new Transcorp Centre, have all contributed to our performance. It is truly a collective achievement built on discipline and dedication.”

    As to how the management can sustain or surpass the result in the remaining half of the year, she assured that the team remains committed to building on this momentum.

    “Our focus for the rest of the year is on maximising the potential of all our assets. This includes ensuring our rooms and suites remain a benchmark for luxury and continuously innovating our F&B menus to offer new and exciting culinary experiences. We will also continue to optimise our operational costs, leverage data to enhance our marketing efforts, and, most importantly, invest in our people. We believe that by creating an empowered and motivated workforce, we can continue to deliver the exceptional service that our guests expect and deserve.”

    While acknowledging that Abuja is a hub for Meetings Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, as to how Transcorp Hotels Plc is positioning to reap from the boom in the industry, she said, “Our flagship hotel, Transcorp Hilton Abuja, has always been at the heart of the MICE industry in Nigeria. With the completion of the new Transcorp Centre, we are now in an unparalleled position to lead the boom. The new centre is a world-class facility with a 5,000-seat capacity, equipped with cutting-edge technology and flexible spaces. This allows us to host everything from major international conventions to corporate retreats simultaneously, all while offering the premium hospitality of Transcorp Hilton. The new centre also drives significant business to our hotel rooms and F&B outlets, as event attendees and organisers require our accommodation and dining services. We are not just positioning to reap from the boom; we are actively helping to create it.”

    Pressed further, she said, “We are prepared for the competition. Our strategy is not to react to new entrants but to continue to build on our unique strengths. Our competitive advantage lies in our brand heritage, our deep understanding of the Nigerian market, and the consistent quality of our rooms and the variety of our F&B options. We have a loyal customer base built on decades of trust, and we believe that in an environment with many options, this trust and consistency will be our greatest competitive advantage. We are not just selling a room or a meal; we are selling a legacy of excellence and a true home away from home.”

    Expatiating, she said, “The secret to our success is our people and our commitment to service. For decades, our team has gone above and beyond to make every guest feel valued. This isn’t just about a standard of service; it is a culture of hospitality that is embedded in every member of our staff, from the team that prepares our world-class meals to the staff who ensure our rooms are a perfect sanctuary. When you combine this with an unwavering focus on maintaining world-class facilities and a deep-seated pride in our Nigerian heritage, you get a timeless recipe for success.”

    How Uzoamaka Oshogwe became a factor in Transcorp Hotels

    For many who have followed the growth trajectory of Transcorp Hotels PLC, especially under the leadership of Uzoamaka Oshogwe, since assuming office on January 1, 2025, the received wisdom out there is that she has brought fresh breath to the foremost hospitality company.

    Interestingly, Oshogwe, who joined at an exciting time in the company’s growth and expansion, shares her excitement, service and facility offerings that distinguish the company, commitment to boost the growth trajectory, among other efforts being put in place to redefine hospitality across Nigeria and beyond.

    Many economic pundits hold the view, and very strongly too, that she brought a lot of zest to her new role, and of course, complemented by a team of passionate and talented professionals who have made the transition seamless by helping her to hit the ground running.

     Accolades for Transcorp Hotels Plc

    As part of the reinforcement of its leadership within the continent’s luxury hospitality segment, Transcorp Hotels Plc regularly receives recognition for its ongoing commitment to redefining hospitality in Africa. The hotel recently achieved a triple win at the globally renowned Seven Star Luxury Awards. At the grand celebration of luxury recently in Tróia, Portugal, Transcorp Hotels earned three distinguished awards.

    The three awards are: Best Luxury Business Hotel (Nigeria & Africa); Best Luxury Event and Conference Centre (Nigeria & Africa), and Best CEO of the Year – Uzoamaka Oshogwe, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, for her transformative leadership and visionary growth strategy.

    The recognitions affirm Transcorp Hotels Plc’s unmatched capacity to deliver premium, end-to-end hospitality experiences for business, diplomatic, and lifestyle clientele across the continent. The recognition of the company’s CEO alongside its flagship properties reflects the strength of an organisation where bold vision meets operational excellence.

    Speaking on the awards, Oshogwe said: “These awards are more than symbols of success. They represent a shared commitment to redefining African hospitality. At Transcorp Hotels, we continue to push boundaries, invest in innovation, and position Nigeria as a global destination for world-class business and leisure experiences.”

    The Seven Star Luxury Awards celebrate the pinnacle of achievement in the global luxury and lifestyle industries, honouring brands that exemplify excellence, innovation, and sustained impact.

    Read Also: Okowa lauds Urhobos’ contribution to Nigeria’s devt. 

    With the wins, Transcorp Hotels Plc continues to set the pace for luxury hospitality in Africa, strengthening its reputation as the home of excellence through its flagship assets — Transcorp Hilton Abuja, Aura by Transcorp Hotels, and the newly launched Transcorp Centre.

    The Awards, which set the standard for excellence in the industry, are consistent with Transcorp Hotels Plc’s capacity to deliver premium, end-to-end hospitality experiences for business, diplomatic, and lifestyle clientele across the continent.

     Expansionist drive

    Already, plans are in top gear to expand Transcorp Hilton to Ikoyi and Port Harcourt, and with the Ikoyi project scheduled to start next year, the hotel arm of the Transcorp Group Plc, according to keen observers, has all it takes to effectively lead the hospitality ecosystem both in the country and across sub-Saharan Africa.

    “Expansion is a key part of our strategic roadmap. We are actively exploring opportunities to grow our footprint not just in Abuja, but also in other key cities like Lagos and beyond. The plan is to continue to develop and manage a portfolio of premium hospitality assets across the country. Any new properties will also focus on delivering the same high standard of rooms, impeccable service, and diverse F&B offerings that Transcorp Hilton Abuja is known for,” she stressed.

    Giving more insights on the company’s hopes to reinforce its top-tier status in the hospitality subsector, Oshogwe, who boasts over three decades across different verticals of business, said it is not a time to be complacent but to keep pushing beyond the boundaries.

    “Our leadership position is something we do not take for granted. We know that leadership is not just about being the biggest, but about being the best, constantly innovating and exceeding expectations. Our strategy is built on three pillars: enhancing the guest experience through continuous improvements to our hotel rooms and our diverse F&B offerings, expanding our capacity with world-class facilities like the new Transcorp Centre, and deepening our commitment to sustainability and local communities. For us, leadership is a journey of continuous improvement, not a destination.”

    Perhaps for proper context, those who are still in doubt as to what the Transcorp Hotels boss brings to the table as far as turning around the fortunes of the luxury brand need to listen to her ideas and ideals articulated in her vision statement.

    “My vision is to leave a legacy of a truly resilient and innovative organisation. I want to enhance a future-proof company. This means prioritising investments in technology, sustainability, and talent development. I want my time here to be remembered as the era when we took an iconic brand and not only maximised a world-class event centre but also further solidified our reputation for having the best rooms and a premium culinary destination, equipping it to thrive in a new, dynamic world.”

  • Nigeria marks 100 years of civil aviation

    Nigeria marks 100 years of civil aviation

    Nigeria yesterday marked 100 years of civil aviation, commemorating the historic November 1, 1925 flight of three British Royal Air Force De Havilland DH.9A aircraft that landed in Maiduguri en route to Kano from Helwan, Egypt.

    The flight, commanded by Air Marshal Sir Arthur Coningham, is widely regarded as the event that heralded the dawn of civil aviation in Nigeria.

    To mark the centenary milestone, the Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI), an aviation safety watchdog and think tank, has congratulated the Federal Government, describing the occasion as a remarkable moment deserving national celebration.

    In a statement signed by its President, Air Commodore (rtd) Ademola Onitiju, ASRTI noted that Nigeria’s aviation industry has evolved through a century of mixed experiences of progress, setbacks, and immense prospects. The group said the journey has spanned multiple dimensions: from leadership, airline growth, and regulatory reforms to airport expansion, safety oversight, training, and consumer protection.

    The aviation sector’s 100-year journey reflects the country’s technological and infrastructural evolution and also its resilience in the face of challenges, Onitiju stated.

    READ ALSO: Femi Kuti reveals secret of longevity in music industry

    ASRTI disclosed that it is working closely with the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to organise a year-long calendar of commemorative activities culminating in a major national event on December 1, 2025, as directed by the Minister, Festus Keyamo (SAN).

    The centenary celebration, themed “100 Years of Aviation in Nigeria: The Gains, The Pains, and The Prospects,” will feature seminars, panel discussions, and presentations by aviation veterans, regulators, and practitioners.

    The group also revealed that state governments that have made significant investments in aviation infrastructure in recent years have been invited to host localised centenary activities. These include aviation opportunity showcases, Aviation Career Days, and partnerships with Chambers of Commerce aimed at inspiring young Nigerians to explore professional careers in the sector. ASRTI and the Federal Ministry will attend such events to show institutional support.

    According to ASRTI, the centenary moment offers Nigeria a chance for sober reflection, to review achievements, acknowledge past mistakes, and chart a course for a stronger, safer, and more prosperous aviation future.

    The group also commended the Nigerian Air Force for its enduring contributions to civil aviation development and air safety.

    Highlighting its own role in the sector, ASRTI recalled that it has issued over 30 communiqués and 50 industry press statements since its establishment in 2003, championing reforms, advising policymakers, and facilitating stakeholder engagement. It also noted the impact of its quarterly Business Breakfast Meetings and webinars, which have produced 24 communiqués addressing critical challenges facing the industry since 2015.

  • Obi Cubana blames solo-ownership culture for African business failures

    Obi Cubana blames solo-ownership culture for African business failures

    Billionaire businessman Obi Iyiegbu popularly known as Obi Cubana, has argued African businesses rarely scale globally because owners refuse to share equity or partner with others.

    In a video that went viral on Saturday, the tycoon highlighted a stark mindset gap between Western firms routinely pool capital from dozens of unrelated investors to fund complex ventures, while Africans insist on total control.

    This lone-wolf approach, he argued, caps growth and dooms companies to die with their founders.

    He said: “Why we Africans don’t go far in business is because we want to own it ourselves. Nobody wants to share. You see, But oyibo people, I bet you there might be 20 owners who don’t even know themselves and they come together to make complex project look very simple

    “But our problem is that I want to have Obi Cubana and Sons Limited. whether your sons are interested in the business you do or not and that’s why the moment they die, the business dies.

    “The moment they are incapacitated, the business dies because there’s no second or third generation to carry on.”

  • Six innovative business ideas you can start with less than N100,000

    Six innovative business ideas you can start with less than N100,000

    Weekends are the perfect time to plan for your future, and starting a business doesn’t always have to break the bank. If you’ve been thinking about making extra income or turning a passion into profit, these six ideas can get you started with less than a hundred thousand naira

    1.Mobile phone accessories business-

    With smartphones being a necessity, phone cases, chargers, and earphones are always in demand. You can source affordable accessories and sell online or within your local community.

    2.Homemade snacks and small catering- 

    Everyone loves convenient, tasty treats. From puff-puffs to small party platters, you can start from your kitchen and expand as demand grows.

    3.Social media management for small business- 

    Many small businesses in Nigeria lack the time or knowledge to handle social media. Offer to manage their pages, create content, and engage customers.

    4.Dropshipping or e-commerce store – 

    Sell products online without holding inventory. Partner with suppliers and focus on marketing to make sales.

    5.Laundry and ironing services – 

    In a busy like Lagos, people are willing to pay for convenience. Start small with a few clients and grow as word spreads.

    5.Event planning and decoration services- 

    From birthdays to small weddings, people love a good setup. Start with small events, use your creativity, and reinvest your earnings.

  • C’River flags off stakeholder engagement on trade policy

    C’River flags off stakeholder engagement on trade policy

    The Cross River State Government has inaugurated a robust consultative process aimed at repositioning the economy for competitiveness, inclusivity, and sustainable growth through the formulation of its first-ever State Trade Policy.

    The stakeholder engagement, held on Thursday at Pristine Villa Events Centre, Calabar, marked a decisive step in shaping a coherent trade framework that aligns with both national and continental development aspirations.

    Declaring the engagement open, Commissioner for Commerce, Dr. (Mrs.) Abigail Orok Duke, described the initiative as “a bold step toward unlocking the full trade potential of Cross River State and positioning it competitively within national, regional and global markets.”

    She noted that trade remains a vital lever for prosperity and inclusive growth, underscoring Governor Bassey Otu’s People First economic vision.

    “Trade is the foundation of prosperity,” Dr. Duke affirmed. “Our goal is to strengthen value chains, promote inclusivity, and create jobs by linking our State’s productive sectors—agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, services, and the creative industries, to expanding market opportunities.”

    The high-level engagement, jointly organised by the Ministry of Commerce and the State Trade Policy Development Committee, brought together senior government officials, private sector leaders, academia, and development partners. Discussions revolved around the theme:

    “Building an Inclusive and Competitive Trade Policy for Sustainable Growth and Job Creation in Cross River State.”

    The session served as a rallying point for developing a trade framework that will anchor the State’s economic diversification agenda.

    Delivering the keynote address titled: “The role of trade policy in driving state competitiveness and job creation,” Professor Susana Ohen, Chairman of the Trade Policy Development Committee, emphasized the importance of aligning Cross River’s trade ambitions with key continental and regional frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), and the National Trade Policy (2023–2027).

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    “A coherent Trade Policy will serve as an anchor for inclusive development,” Prof. Ohen stated. “It will connect our smallholder farmers, MSMEs, and industrial actors to markets, stimulate private investment, and drive job creation across the value chain.”

    Other presentations added intellectual depth to the session. Professor Lionel Effiom of the University of Calabar’s Department of Economics presented an “Overview of the State Trade Landscape and Policy Development Process,” while Mr. Kelly Ayamba, FCA, President of CALCCIMA, delivered insights on “Sectoral Perspectives: Trade Opportunities and Challenges.” Both speakers underscored the urgency of institutionalizing a trade policy that will foster innovation, expand market access, and strengthen industrial linkages across key sectors.

    The engagement also featured interactive breakout sessions facilitated by Mr. Kenneth Ittah, Mr. William Itorok, and Dr. Osas Omorogbe, during which participants examined sectoral priorities, challenges, and actionable strategies for trade facilitation. Discussions covered a broad range of areas including agriculture and agro-processing, manufacturing and industrialization, tourism, entertainment and cuisine, solid minerals, services, energy, transportation, forestry, and fisheries. The plenary session that followed harmonized the outcomes into a shared roadmap for policy drafting.

    In her closing remarks, Mrs. Philomena Nyiam, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, expressed appreciation to participants for their commitment to a shared vision of economic transformation. “This process is consultative by design,” she remarked. “The Ministry will continue to engage all stakeholders as we move toward drafting, validating, and adopting a Trade Policy that reflects our State’s aspirations for inclusive and sustainable growth.”

    Goodwill messages from the Cross River Planning Commission, CALCCIMA, and development partners reaffirmed support for the process, with many describing the initiative as a milestone in creating a trade-enabling environment capable of attracting investment, boosting production, and generating employment.

    With this bold start, Cross River State has signaled its readiness to chart a new economic course anchored on competitiveness, partnership and shared prosperity.

  • NERC urges FG to utilise REA $2b to industrial hubs

    NERC urges FG to utilise REA $2b to industrial hubs

    The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has urged the Federal Government to spend the significant part of the $ 2 billion available to the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to proffer solutions to the power supply challenges of the country’s industrial hubs.

    Vice Chairman, Dr. Musiliu Oseni, gave the charge at the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) 20th anniversary in Abuja. 

    The theme of the event was “Strengthening Power Sector Governance For A Sustainable Future”

    “The government should deliberate make policy to power industry for economic prosperity since mini-grids of the REA can only provide energy access but would not be able to energize the economy to prosperity.

    “There must be a deliberate policy by the FGN to power our industry for economic prosperity.  You can power access through Mini-Grids but you can’t power your economy to prosperity. 

    “Thus, there is a need for policy rethink on the utilisation of the USD2bn currently available to the Rural Electrification Agency (“REA”). 
    “A substantial portion of the fund should be dedicated to providing end-to-end solution to the power supply challenges facing our industrial hubs,” he said.

    Oseni recalled that NERC oversaw the privatisation and unbundling of the hitherto state owned vertically integrated monopoly.

    Read Also: NERC marks 20 years of operations

    He stressed that the commission has developed standard regulatory instruments to strengthen the electricity market, improve reliability of supply and enhance consumer protection.

    He said  relative to 20 years ago, not less than 30 per cent of the electricity consumers have experienced significant improvement in their electricity services. 

    But through effective regulation, the Commission has saved the Federal Government several trillion of naira in subsidies thereby contributing to improved fiscal position of the Federal Government, according to him. 
    The Vice Chairman revealed that the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) transmission 
     transmission networks require significant investments.

    The fiscal realities, however, according to him, have shown that the government alone cannot fund it.

    He insisted that necessary regulatory framework will go a long way in attracting private investments. 

    He disclosed that NERC has begun the process for the establishment of Transmission Infrastructure Fund (TIF)), which is expected to get policymakers support.

    Oseni further noted that NERC shall sustain the regulatory process for transition to bilateral trading, handholding of state regulatory commissions for capacity development.

     He said the Electricity Act of 2023 provides for regulatory oversights at the subnational level.

    According to him, 15 states have got their transfer order from the Commission while 11 of them have crossed the six months transitional period but only eight out of the 11 are currently operational.

    He added that there is a vacuum in Edo, Ogun and Oyo States. 

  • Lawmakers launch probe into tax deductions, multiple bank charges

    Lawmakers launch probe into tax deductions, multiple bank charges

    The House of Representatives yesterday inaugurated an Ad-hoc Committee to investigate the deduction of taxes and sundry charges from the earnings of civil and public servants, as well as multiple bank charges imposed on customers’ accounts across the country.

    Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Kelechi Nwogu, said the committee was established in response to mounting concerns from civil servants and ordinary Nigerians over the growing complexities and inconsistencies in tax deductions and banking fees.

    Nwogu described the inauguration as a pivotal step in the National Assembly’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and accountability, noting that the House could no longer ignore the frustrations of citizens who suffer unexplained deductions from their salaries and bank accounts.

    He said: “It is with great honour and a profound sense of duty that I stand before you today as the Chairman of the Ad-Hoc Committee to Investigate the Deduction of Taxes and Sundry Charges from the Earnings of Civil and Public Servants, as well as the multiple bank charges on customers’ accounts in Nigeria,”.

    READ ALSO: Nigerians revive ‘Justice For Ochanya’ seven years after teen’s death

      According to him, the committee was set up to respond to citizens’ concerns and ensure that financial practices across both government and banking institutions align with principles of justice and equity.

      “These issues have contributed to confusion and a lack of trust among our populace,” Nwogu stated. “As their representatives, it is our responsibility to address these concerns directly and ensure that financial practices promote justice and equity.”

      He outlined the committee’s mandate to include investigating the nature and application of taxes, levies, and salary deductions affecting civil and public servants, as well as probing possible cases of non-remittance of deducted funds. The committee will also examine the range of bank charges, including Value Added Tax (VAT) applied to existing fees, with the aim of ensuring transparency and fairness.

      “We aim to identify any irregularities, recommend essential reforms, and advocate for the rights of all Nigerians,” the lawmaker said. “We will evaluate the impact of these deductions and charges to ensure they are just and transparent. As we progress, we are prepared to make far-reaching and decisive recommendations, not minding whose ox is gored, and will not hesitate to utilize the full authority of the Legislature when necessary.”

     Hon. Nwogu called for full cooperation and participation from all stakeholders, including government agencies, banks, regulatory bodies, and civil society organisations. He urged members of the committee and invited experts to work collaboratively and objectively to deliver a report that would result in real change.

      “I encourage each of you, Honourable Members, industry experts, and stakeholders, to engage in this investigation with open minds and a collaborative spirit. Your contributions are essential as we seek effective solutions,” he said.

      Nwogu stressed that the committee’s work would not end with identifying problems but would focus on proposing actionable reforms that strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s financial systems.

       “We encourage participation from a diverse range of stakeholders throughout this process,” he said. “Together, we can facilitate the establishment of a more equitable financial environment for all Nigerians.”

     He commended the Speaker of the House of Representatives and members of the 10th Assembly for their foresight in constituting the committee, describing the assignment as one of national importance.

      “In conclusion, I extend my gratitude to the Honourable Speaker and the House of Representatives for entrusting us with this significant assignment, as well as to all stakeholders in attendance today. Your commitment will play a crucial role in advancing our nation’s progress,” Nwogu said.

     He expressed optimism that the investigation would lead to meaningful policy and institutional changes that would improve financial fairness and accountability in the country.

      “Let us collaborate to ensure that this investigation culminates in meaningful changes that enhance the well-being of every Nigerian citizen,” he concluded.

      The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, reiterated the commitment of the 10th National Assembly to promoting fairness, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria’s financial system, particularly as it concerns tax deductions and multiple bank charges burdening citizens.

      The Speaker, who was represented by the Chief Whip of the House, Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, said the establishment of the committee reflected the legislature’s responsiveness to the cries of Nigerians who have continued to experience arbitrary deductions from their salaries and accounts, both by government agencies and financial institutions.

        “It is a privilege to stand before you today to inaugurate the House Ad-hoc Committee dedicated to investigating tax deductions and various charges affecting the earnings of our civil and public servants, as well as the excessive bank fees impacting everyday Nigerians,” he said.

      He stressed that the House owed it to the people to ensure financial justice, especially for civil and public servants whose incomes are already overstretched.

      “As representatives of the people, we are entrusted with the duty to uphold transparency, accountability, and fairness in our financial systems,” Abbas said. “The deductions faced by our public servants raise serious concerns. These dedicated individuals, who work tirelessly for our nation, should not bear the burden of unjust financial practices that diminish their earnings.”

     The Speaker also decried the growing problem of multiple and unclear bank charges, noting that such practices undermine public confidence and worsen the economic hardship faced by citizens.

        “Moreover, the issue of multiple bank charges erodes public trust and places an undue strain on citizens’ finances. The demands for transparency and fairness in banking cannot be ignored; they require our immediate attention,” he stated.

     Abbas urged the newly inaugurated committee to conduct its assignment with integrity, objectivity, and commitment to the people, engaging all relevant stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive investigation that will lead to practical reforms.

        “This committee will work diligently and with integrity, engaging stakeholders across various sectors to uncover the truth and provide actionable recommendations for reform that protect the rights of our citizens,” he said.

      He also encouraged members of the committee to maintain an open mind and spirit of cooperation, saying the success of their work could help restore Nigerians’ confidence in the financial system.

        “I encourage each member to approach this task with collaboration and an open mind,” he said. “Together, we have the opportunity to enact meaningful change and restore confidence in our financial institutions.”

        Abbas emphasised that the assignment was part of a broader legislative effort to ensure that Nigerians are not unfairly treated by the institutions meant to serve them, warning that the House would not tolerate exploitative practices in either the public or private sectors.

        “Let us remember that our efforts aim to ensure that every Nigerian has a voice and that our actions will shape a just financial landscape for future generations,” he said.

        The Speaker concluded by calling for unity and dedication in the pursuit of fairness and equity, expressing confidence that the committee’s work would produce lasting reforms that strengthen Nigeria’s financial integrity.

        “In closing, I stress the importance of our unity and dedication as we embark on this vital mission,” Abbas said. “May our work yield lasting benefits and strengthen the principles of justice and equity in our great nation.”

  • Oando’s net profit rises to N210b

    Oando’s net profit rises to N210b

    Oando Plc strengthened its earnings outlook with 164 per cent growth in net profit to N210.31 billion in the third quarter, underlining increasing attractiveness of the leading indigenous energy group.

    Oando recorded the highest gain at the Nigerian stock market yesterday as the nine-month report was released at the Nigerian Exchange (NGX).

    Oando’s share price rose by 9.99 per cent, a notch below the 10 per cent maximum daily allowable change at the NGX.

    Oando closed on bid at N46.80 per share, with market analysts expecting the rally to continue on the momentum of the third-quarter report.

    Key extracts of the interim report and accounts for the nine months ended September 30, 2025 showed that net profit after tax rose from N76.3 billion in third quarter 2024 to N201.31 billion in third quarter 2025.

    Earnings per share thus leapt to N16 by third quarter 2025 as against N6 recorded in comparable period of 2024.

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    Total assets also expanded from N6.43 trillion by December 31, 2024 to N6.77 trillion by September 2025.

    Commenting on the results, Group Chief Executive, Oando Plc, Mr Wale Tinubu, said the group has further consolidated the gains achieved following its acquisition of NAOC’s assets last year.

    According to him, the group’s assumption of operatorship has been transformational, granting it the agility to act decisively and execute with precision in driving production growth and operational efficiency.

    He said: “Production uptime currently stands at 82 per cent, translating to a 59 per cent year-on-year increase in crude oil and gas production, which now averages 38,121boepd, clear evidence of the beginning of the dawn of unlocking the tremendous value our reserves possess.

    “During the period, we made meaningful progress in integrating operations, strengthening security and community relations, as well as resolving legacy issues inherited at the point of operatorship. Most notably, we achieved a partial recovery of substantial receivables that had remained outstanding for several years and made significant headway in renegotiating long-standing legal matters that had previously been fully provisioned for. These milestones underscore the depth of our leadership and our unwavering commitment to unlocking value”.

    He noted that across the group’s trading business, refined products volumes remained under pressure, largely due to the well-deserved and expected success of the Dangote refinery in meeting Nigeria’s import needs.

    “Consequently, our focus had shifted to expanding global crude exports and leveraging structured pre-export transactions, an area in which we have continued to record robust success.

    “In addition, we also executed the first tranche of our share distribution programme, delivering a 5.33 per cent dividend yield, with the second tranche scheduled for early next year. This is yet another tangible demonstration of our focus on creating and returning value to our shareholders.

    “As we enter the final quarter of 2025, we remain focused on further strengthening our balance sheet, accelerating production growth, expanding our trading footprint, optimizing our cash flows, and sustaining long-term value creation,” Tinubu said.