The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Delineation: AIG Garba meets Warri stakeholders, warns against renewed ethnic tensions

    Delineation: AIG Garba meets Warri stakeholders, warns against renewed ethnic tensions

    To prevent a potential crisis following the Supreme Court’s directive for fresh delineation of electoral wards and polling units in Warri Federal Constituency, Delta State, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 5 Headquarters, Benin City, AIG Salman-Dogo Garba, has held a crucial security meeting with key stakeholders who pledged to maintain peace.

    The meeting, convened at the instance of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, was held on Thursday, June 19, at the AIG’s office in Benin City. It brought together the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, the Area Commander Warri, and chairmen of Warri South, Warri North, and Warri South-West LGAs, among others.

    Also in attendance were representatives of the Gbaramatu Kingdom, the Palace of the Olu of Warri, the Isaba Kingdom, Itsekiri representatives, the Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, the Pere of Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom, and the Agbarha Warri Kingdom.

    In a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tijani Momoh, AIG Garba cautioned against any action that might ignite a recurrence of the historical Warri crisis. He stressed that the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic groups are inseparable and must coexist peacefully.

    He urged leaders to rein in their youths and warned against inflammatory and inciting comments, particularly on social media. Garba specifically cautioned against the use of derogatory labels such as calling any ethnic group “customary tenants.”

    Read Also: Delineation: Ogbe-Ijoh leaders defend allocated wards in Warri South

    Noting that “when a life is lost, nobody can bring it back,” the AIG, warned that any further breakdown of law and order, as well as the trend of name-calling and social media protest will no longer be tolerated as culprits would be arrested and prosecuted accordingly. 

    In his remarks, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda disclosed that the essence of the meeting was to ensure that the controversy surrounding the wards delineation do not degenerate into a full blown conflict.

    Representatives of the stakeholders including the three council chairmen, in their respective speeches, sued for peace, just as they pointed out that the delineation exercise carried out by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was yet-to-be finalised. 

    They also promised to call their youths to order.

    It would be noted that since April 4, 2025, when the fieldwork report of the delineation exercise was released to the three ethnic nationalities, stakeholders had engaged in series of protests, and other actions capable of truncating the volatile peace in the oil city and across communities in the three Local Government Areas.

    It would be recalled that the National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, also invited the vested parties for a meeting in Abuja over the matter, on May 19.

  • FIRS weekend opening: A public office with a difference 

    FIRS weekend opening: A public office with a difference 

    By Arabinrin Aderonke 

    In Nigeria, it is believed and widely accepted that weekends belong to the people. They are for markets, family time, and catching up on everything the busy week couldn’t accommodate. That is why when a government agency announces that it will open its offices on weekends, it naturally draws attention. It is rare. 

    What the public is more used to are stories of agencies that barely function within the usual five working days. That is what makes the new step by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), under the leadership of Executive Chairman Dr. Zacch Adedeji, commendable. From June 14 to 29, FIRS offices nationwide will be open on Saturdays and Sundays to provide tax services to Nigerians.

    This is not a publicity stunt. It is a timely response to a pressing need. With the Companies Income Tax filing deadline approaching, many individuals and businesses are trying to meet their obligations before June 30, Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

    For those who cannot afford to leave work or close their shops during the week, this weekend window is a lifeline. It offers flexibility. It removes pressure. And most importantly, it reflects something we do not see often enough in public service: consideration.

    This new development is not limited to select branches. It covers all relevant FIRS offices under the Large Taxpayers Group, Government and Medium Taxpayers Group, and Emerging Taxpayers Group. From Lagos Island to Kwara, from city centers to smaller towns, offices will be open and ready to serve. What this means is that more Nigerians regardless of where they live or work can now walk in on a weekend and get things done. The success of this weekend’s policy shows a deliberate leadership style rooted in institutional reform. 

    Read Also: FIRS adopts new model to drive voluntary tax compliance

    Since assuming office in 2023, the Tax Boss has focused not only on revenue performance but also on building internal capacity. Staff remuneration has been improved. Promotions are now based on clearly defined performance benchmarks. Employee welfare has received renewed attention. These reforms have promoted a more motivated workforce, a fact acknowledged by staff during this year’s Workers’ Day commemorations. This internal restructuring is quietly enhancing the quality of public service delivery across the agency.

    At the same time, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is pursuing a progressive national revenue target of ₦25.2 trillion for 2025, following a record ₦21.6 trillion in 2024. Rather than relying on pressure tactics or reactive measures, the agency is investing in scalable infrastructure and technology.

     Through initiatives such as the TaxPro Max platform and the establishment of more accessible satellite offices, FIRS is demonstrating its commitment to inclusion, efficiency, and voluntary compliance. The weekend extension is consistent with this broader agenda, offering a practical model of how public institutions can be both responsive and forward-thinking.

    Well done, Nigeria. Well done for expecting better. Well done for valuing service. Well done for holding systems to a higher standard. Well done to Dr. Zacch for proving that leadership can listen, act, and make a real difference. This is not just about convenience. It is about moving forward in ways that matter. Let’s build on this.

    –Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the technical assistant on broadcast media to the executive chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service

  • Chidomere Ndubuisi headlines sales masterclass Global CEO retreat in Qatar

    Chidomere Ndubuisi headlines sales masterclass Global CEO retreat in Qatar

    In a groundbreaking event that brought together Africa’s most visionary entrepreneurs, Chidomere Ndubuisi, Founder of Pamtech Group, delivered a masterclass that ignited minds and shifted perspectives at the highly anticipated Global CEO Business Retreat hosted by Dr. Stephen Akintayo and the Gtex Team.

    Held in the vibrant city of Doha, Qatar, this retreat was more than a luxury getaway. It became a transformational experience for every aspiring global business leader present.

    The opening session, led by Chidomere, set the tone with a profound theme: “Finding Your Voice and Becoming the Bridge Builder.”

    “To lead in sales, you must first lead in spirit.”

    He introduced an unconventional yet unforgettable concept: Every CEO must become a ritualist.

    * Have an altar where daily practices meet spiritual intention.

    * Make sacrifices in the form of consistent action.

    * Be guided by a chief priest — a mentor, a coach, or an inner compass.

    “When you find yourself and become, you don’t just show up online to make sales. You show up to give value — and give it for free. You get connected, and everything else falls into place.”

    This foundational teaching reminded every entrepreneur in the room: clarity of purpose precedes clarity in business.

    Read Also: A glimpse inside the trailblazing Journey of Engr. Chidomere Ndubuisi, Pamtech Oil

    Chidomere’s keynote, themed “From Data to Deal: How Storytelling Closes Sales”, was a standout moment of the retreat. Using a dynamic framework inspired by the transition from raw data to persuasive narrative, he taught participants how to convert scattered information into structured, emotion-driven sales strategies.

    “Data doesn’t close deals — clarity does. And clarity comes from turning your product into a powerful story,” he said, as he walked CEOs through a 5-step system: Data → Sorted → Arranged → Visualized → Story.

    From his signature analogy of sales being like “Lego bricks” to his passionate insights on selling fuel, real estate, and mechanics as experiences, not products, Chidomere left the audience inspired to rebuild their sales engines from the inside out.

    In his reflection, Chidomere emphasized the value of changing your environment to elevate your vision:

    “When you step outside Nigeria’s chaos and breathe the air of structure, silence, and scale — your thinking shifts. Qatar gave me that pause. And from that pause came clarity.”

    Learning in Doha wasn’t just about geography; it was about immersion, access, and shared ambition.

    Being surrounded by equally hungry entrepreneurs created a sense of accountability and forward motion rarely replicated in day-to-day business life.

    With his team members — the iconic “Prodigal Sons” Akay and Jegolion and his fondly called Billionaire Daughter, Julie Ibekwe by his side, Chidomere brought community, culture, and authenticity to the retreat. Their presence highlighted a deeper message:

    “No one builds global alone. You grow faster when you grow together.”

    This reinforced one of the retreat’s core beliefs: growth in groups accelerates success.

    Chidomere extended heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Stephen Akintayo for curating such a timely, transformational event:

    “Thank you for giving us this stage, this space, and this spark. The Gtex Team’s excellence in execution was unmatched. I’m honored to have shared the floor and the future with this network.”

    As the dust settles on Doha, eyes now turn toward Singapore, November 2025 — the next Global CEO Retreat destination. If Doha changed lives, Singapore promises to change destinies.

  • Journalist petitions EFCC, CBN, PCC over alleged excess deductions by bank

    Journalist petitions EFCC, CBN, PCC over alleged excess deductions by bank

    A journalist, Mr. Musliudeen Atanda Adebayo, has appealed to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and the Public Complaints Commission (PCC) to intervene and stop Microfinance Bank from making further deductions from his account.

    Adebayo, who serves as the Oyo state correspondent for DAILY POST, made the appeal in a formal petition submitted to the three agencies. Copies of the petition were submitted to the EFCC’s Ibadan Zonal Office, the CBN Ibadan Branch, and the PCC’s Oyo State office.

    In the petition titled “Petition Against Microfinance Bank Over Sudden Increment of My Payable Loan”, Adebayo urged the regulatory bodies to halt what he described as unjustified deductions by the bank.

    He explained that in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he was promised a grant but was instead given ₦180,000, which turned out to be a loan. 

    According to him, he has since repaid both the principal and the 15% interest. However, he expressed dismay that the bank is now demanding an additional 15% payment.

    Adebayo said he visited the Microfinance Bank branch in Dugbe, Ibadan, to close his account but was told he would still have to pay the extra 15% before that could be done.

    He called on the EFCC, CBN, and PCC to step in and stop the bank from making any further deductions from his account.

    “I have exhausted all the necessary avenues to resolve this matter amicably but the manager and the staff of Microfinance Bank at Dugbe Ibadan are still insisting that they will still deduct money from my account after I have paid the principal loan and the 15 per cent interest and I do not have any other options than to write this petition to the three agencies and make it available to the journalists for all members of the public to know what is happening. 

    “I am using this medium to lodge a complain over sudden increment of my payable loan at Microfinance Bank from 15 to 25 per cent. I will like to state that I was not informed that it was loan that we were given instead of grant. A sum of one hundred and eighty thousand was given to me during the COVID-19 pandemic era in 2020. 

    Read Also: EFCC vows never to allow re-looting of recovered assets

    “An account with 0250571240 was opened for me by the bank. We thought that it was grant at that time. No message was sent to me untill August 2023. Sometimes in August 2023, I received a message that I was supposed to have paid the loan. I started the repayment in September 2023. I approached the Dugbe Ibadan branch and demanded for the total amount I was to pay. I was told by the cashier that I was to pay the sum of N180,000 and additional 15 per cent as interest which if added together is N207,000 

    “I paid a sum of 10,000 on 19th August 2023. 5,000 on 22nd August 2023. 5,000 on 29th August, 2023. 5,000 on 20th September, 2023. 5,000 on 23rd October, 2023. 10,000 on 29th December, 2023. A sum of N101, 277 was deduced from my account on 10th May 2024 through GIS, additional sum of N1,727 was deduced through GIS recovery on 2nd July 2024, while N35,525 was also deduced through GIS recovery on 4th March 2025. On Sunday, 4th May, 2025, I paid a sum of N28,471 from my Jaiz Bank account as the balance I was to pay. I have paid the principal amount (N180,000) and the interest of fifteen per cent (N27,000). I am am not owing the bank and I want the account to be closed. 

    “Unfortunately, I approached the same branch and I was told there is additional N18,000 I was to pay. I told the manager to provide the schedule of payment I was issued sometimes ago but he refused. As at today, I have paid all the total amount of money I supposed to pay based on the sheet issued to me when I demanded the total amount of money I was to pay. 

    “On Friday, 23rd May, 2025, I approached the same branch demanding for the closure of my account but they told me that I can only change the status of my credit which I initially disagreed with. They told me to write a letter with the headline “Request to update my credit status”. I was not comfortable with this arrangement as I am no longer interested in dealing with the bank anymore. 

    “My request: I have paid all the total amount of money I supposed to pay including the 15 per cent interest and on this premises I seek your intervention to prevail on the bank not to deduct any money from my account henceforth. I want to close the account totally and I do not want to be have anything to do with the Bank anymore. I am using this medium to appeal to you to use your good office to ensure that all these requests are granted.”

  • Pad-Up Creations empowers over 3,000 women as micro sales agents

    Pad-Up Creations empowers over 3,000 women as micro sales agents

    As part of efforts to empower young girls and women in Africa, Pad-Up Creations Limited, a Nigerian company manufacturing reusable sanitary pads, baby diapers, and undergarments, has empowered over 3,000 women and girls across local communities through its Micro Sales Agents Programme in three years.

    The initiative, which provides women with starter kits valued at N55,000 on credit, allows them to launch small-scale businesses selling Pad-Up’s hygiene products in their neighbourhoods without needing upfront capital.

    On the programme’s impact, Pad-Up Creations Limited CEO, Mrs. Olivia Onyemaobi, said it was designed to tackle economic hardship faced by women and girls who struggle to support their families.

    “We thought of what we can do to contribute to the economic empowerment of young girls and women,” she said.

    Explaining the sales model, she said agents receive products on credit, sell within their communities, remit payments, and keep the profit margin.

    Read Also: King of CMS Consulting empowers African youth through digital learning platforms

    “Successful agents gain access to more products, enabling them to expand their businesses and income streams over time,” she said.

    She said the initiative addresses limited access to affordable sanitary products, especially in remote and underserved areas.

    Mrs. Onyemaobi noted that the agents bridge this gap by bringing hygiene products closer to communities that need them the most.

    Women in the internally displaced persons (IDP) camps are not left out.

    The CEO said their demand for affordable reusable diapers and sanitary pads remains high as Pad-Up Creations is doing everything to ensure that they can participate as sales agents, earning income while supplying essential products to fellow camp residents.

    “Encouraged by our success in Nigeria, we expanded the programme to Ghana in February 2025, training women and girls on menstrual hygiene, reproductive health, and business skills at Prampram Technical Institute.

    “We also donated 1,500 sanitary pads to schoolgirls,” Mrs Onyemaobi said.

    Mrs. Onyemaobi acknowledged that while not every agent succeeds, the programme has produced success stories of women achieving huge turnovers.

    She said Pad-Up remains committed to empowering more women, promoting menstrual health, and ensuring affordable hygiene products reach every community.

  • Two die, two abducted, two rescued in Anambra cult shooting 

    Two die, two abducted, two rescued in Anambra cult shooting 

    Two persons died while two others were reportedly abducted in alleged cult related shooting in Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra state.

    Two victims, including a lady receiving treatment in a hospital, were said to have been rescued during the incidents which occured at the Total Junction and Tipper junction in the area.

    An eyewitness account revealed that the armed criminals operating with a motorcycle and a black Lexus 350 SUV without plate number, started shooting indiscriminately at the Total junction.

    “Four persons were allegedly wounded  including a lady that is currently receiving treatment at the hospital. 

    “The two others were allegedly abducted at the Tipper junction before they fled the scene,” the source said.

    Confirming the incident, Police Spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga said calmness has been restored to the area as police operatives have taken over the scene of the incident.

    Read Also: Politicians blamed for cult clashes, killings in Ondo as police declare war on drug peddlers

    He said they were acting on necessary information from eyewitnesses for possible arrest of the suspects.

    According to him: “Police Operatives led by the Area Commander Aguata, complemented by Joint Security Force comprising the Army, Navy, Civil Defence and Vigilante Operatives have taken over the scene of an alleged cult related shooting by 8.40pm on 19th June, 2025 at the Total Junction and Tipper junction all in Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area. 

    “Two victims including a lady who is currently receiving treatment in a hospital were rescued. Sadly, the incident recorded the death of two persons and the alleged abduction of two others.

    “Meanwhile, the Command has sued for calm as the Operatives are already acting on some clues from the scene and leveraging on necessary information from some eyewitnesses for the possible arrest of the hoodlums.”

  • Bariga LG partners Morroco to empower over 1,800 youths, artisans, others

    Bariga LG partners Morroco to empower over 1,800 youths, artisans, others

    No fewer than 1,820 beneficiaries have received financial incentives from the Bariga Local Council in partnership with the Provincial Council of Tiznit, Morocco.

    The intervention tagged: “Promoting Sustainable Solidarity” was aimed at boosting the local economy and community development.

    The initiative, according to the organisers, was also targeted at practically demonstrating the council’s determination to ensure inclusivity in programmes designed to drive economic growth from the grassroots. 

    The progamme featured various skills training sessions in bead making, leather work, adire/batik, soap making, and hair crafting, baking. 

    The Chairman, Bariga Local Council, Hon. Kolade Alabi David explained that the grant from the Provincial Council of Tiznit, which required counterpart funding from Bariga Local Council made the empowerment programme possible. 

    Alabi noted that the initiative had not only provided financial incentives for artisans in micro-enterprises, but had also equipped them with latest skills to thrive in their crafts.

    He urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the opportunity to make positive changes in their lives.

    Alabi in his remarks said: “When we came on board in 2017, we aimed to bridge the gap between dreams and reality… We have delivered modestly, and we’re still working.” 

    Read Also: Bariga LG 2025: Support group picks APC chairmanship nomination form for Adesanya

    He further assured that all ongoing projects would be commissioned before the end of his tenure.

    The Chairman’s Chief Press Secretary, Tunde Balogun in a statement noted that a cumulative sum of N250 million was invested in the program.

    The beneficiaries include: youths, market women, cooperative societies, religious groups, CDC, CDAs, and artisans from various wards in Bariga.

    One of the beneficiaries, Ms. Christiana Awoyemi expressed her gratitude to the council for the financial support, noting that it would go a long way to boost her business. 

  • Benue killings: NSCDC boss calls for upscaling of intelligence gathering

    Benue killings: NSCDC boss calls for upscaling of intelligence gathering

    The Commandant General (CG) of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr Ahmed Audi, has called for the upscaling of intelligence gathering and sharing among security agencies and operatives.

    The NSCDC boss condemned the gruesome murder of unarmed civilians during the attack in Yelwata village in Guma local government area of Benue state and urged security operatives to ensure the arrest of the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

    Dr Audi made remarks during a scheduled visit to the state for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation alongside other security chiefs.

    He commiserated with the Governor and people of Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area who lost their loved ones in the attack and assured that the Corps is working closely with other security agencies to put a stop to the killings.

    According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Corps, Babawale Afolabi, the CG decried the mindless killing of unarmed women and children in the unfortunate incident.

    Dr Audi said there was no justification whatsoever for the gruesome murder of innocent citizens.

    The NSCDC boss, therefore, ordered the Zonal Commander and the State Commandant to effectively deploy covert operatives, Special Forces and all tactical units to every nook and cranny of the state while at the same time collaborating with other stakeholders to enhance well-coordinated operations for a renewed onslaught against the perpetrators.

    Read Also: Synergy is our strength, says NSCDC mining commander after silent heroes award recognition

    “These killings must stop, and we must be very strategic, decisive, and resilient in our approach to the restoration of peace and order in the State.

    “All hands must be on deck. There must be maximum deployment of all Special Forces, counter terrorism units, and intelligence operatives for both covert and overt operations.

    “Just as Mr. President has directed, the perpetrators of this heinous crime must be brought to book, and we need to be on top of our game to make this happen,” the CG asserted.

    Dr Audi further assured that the High Command of the NSCDC would deploy more tactical operatives and logistics to support the Benue Command in boosting their operation for a more effective security coverage.

    He promised to work closely with the Military, DSS, the Nigerian Police, the Indigenous Security apparatus and other critical stakeholders within the Communities to gather credible information that would lead to the arrests of those who carried out the acts of criminality.

    The NSCDC boss thanked the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr Hyacinth Lornem Alia for the support to the State Command and reaffirmed his commitment to the restoration of peace, order and the safeguarding of all Critical National Assets and Infrastructures in the state.

  • No evidence found in viral allegations of officer misconduct in Surulere, says LASTMA

    No evidence found in viral allegations of officer misconduct in Surulere, says LASTMA

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) says it has found no evidence to support claims of misconduct by its officers following a viral social media post alleging harassment near the Iponri area of Surulere.

    The allegation, posted on X (formerly Twitter) by one Mr. Chiemelie Kyrian Offor, accused unidentified LASTMA officers of wrongfully arresting and harassing him on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, before taking him to an undisclosed office allegedly near “Faithview Hospital.”

    In a statement issued Thursday, LASTMA said it immediately launched an internal investigation after the post gained attention.

    The agency said it debriefed all officers deployed to the Iponri corridor on the date in question and reviewed duty rosters and operational logs.

    However, the authority reported that no findings matched Mr. Offor’s account.

    It added that attempts to contact him for additional information, such as vehicle registration, officer description, or any other supporting evidence, have so far been unsuccessful.

    LASTMA reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and urged members of the public to provide verifiable details when reporting alleged misconduct.

    Read Also: LASTMA launches statewide clean-up operation to restore traffic order in Lagos

    “Physical verification further confirmed that there is no facility named ‘Faithview Hospital’ within the Surulere axis,” the agency noted in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment, Adebayo Taofiq.

    The agency concluded that, in the absence of verifiable evidence or actionable information, there was no basis to substantiate the claims made in the viral post.

    Despite its findings, LASTMA reiterated its commitment to transparency, professionalism, and citizen-focused service delivery.

    “LASTMA will continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity in its operations and will not hesitate to investigate any credible reports brought to its attention,” the statement said.

  • Centre, NBA-SBL sign MoU to drive legislative, economic reforms in Nigeria

    Centre, NBA-SBL sign MoU to drive legislative, economic reforms in Nigeria

    The Ernest Shonekan Centre for Legislative Reforms and Economic Development (ESC) and the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Business Law (NBA-SBL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen Nigeria’s legislative, judicial, and regulatory frameworks in support of economic transformation.

    The partnership aims to reshape Nigeria’s business and economic landscape through targeted legislative and policy reforms, formalising nearly a decade of collaboration between the two organisations.

    Speaking at the signing ceremony, ESC Chairman, Mr. Kyari Bukar, recalled that the journey began in 2016 with the release of a comprehensive report on institutional, regulatory, and legislative frameworks affecting businesses in Nigeria. 

    The report, produced under the UK-DFID’s ENABLE2 and GEMS3 projects and led by Professor Paul Idornigie, was extensively reviewed by experts from NBA-SBL and the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG).

    Bukar noted that the report formed the foundation for major legislative proposals aimed at improving the country’s business environment. 

    He added that both ESC and NBA-SBL have consistently worked together to share expertise, promote informed dialogue, and support initiatives that enhance Nigeria’s economic and legal systems.

    He said, “However, this relationship has largely remained informal until now. 

    Today is not just a ceremonial exercise; it is the formalisation of a strategic partnership rooted in a shared vision to strengthen Nigeria’s legislative, judicial, and regulatory frameworks that support its economic transformation.

    “The Ernest Shonekan Centre stands at the intersection of legal reform and economic progress, serving as a collaborative platform to drive evidence-based policy, institutional capacity building, and regulatory modernisation. 

    “This partnership with the NBA-SBL reflects our mutual understanding that a strong legal framework is essential for a thriving, competitive economy.

    We are grateful to the leadership of the NBA-SBL for their openness and commitment to this journey. This partnership is a strong statement that both the legal and economic communities recognise the value of dialogue, reform, and strategic alignment.

    “Through this collaboration with the NBA-SBL, we will leverage legal expertise, policy insight, and stakeholder engagement to address pressing challenges and close the gaps that inhibit economic growth and legal efficiency.

    “While calling for cooperation between the organisations, he said the MoU will not only serve as a symbol of our cooperation but also as a call to action and a guide for bold, evidence-based reform. 

    Read Also: BOI to empower artisans for economic growth

    “The work we initiate today will demand courage, collaboration, and consistency. Given the exceptional minds and institutions represented here, I am confident that we will meet this challenge head-on.”

    In her remarks, Chairman of the NBA – SBL, Mrs Ozofu ‘Latunde Ogiemudia described the pact as a significant milestone in the collective journey towards fostering a more conducive business environment and driving sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.

    She said for too long, the advancement of the country has been hampered by various challenges within the legislative, regulatory, and judicial systems. However, with this partnership, she said the country is taking a decisive step towards addressing the critical issues head-on.

    As the specialist section of the Nigerian Bar Association, the group, Mrs Ogiemudia has consistently championed the advancement of business law practice and the professional development of commercial lawyers. 

    She said, “Our commitment to a robust legal framework that supports business is unwavering. The ESC, on the other hand, as a non-partisan, non-profit think tank, has dedicated itself to driving legislative reforms and promoting economic development. 

    “Their focus on strengthening legislative frameworks, enhancing the business environment, and promoting good governance through research, and capacity building is truly commendable.

    The NBA-SBL and the predecessor to the ESC, the National Assembly Business Environment Roundtable (NASSBER) through an effective partnership with the 8th and 9th National Assembly, she said championed some of the most impactful legislation of recent administrations such as the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020 and the Arbitration and Mediation Act 2023. 

    “Furthermore, the groundwork for the recently passed Investments and Securities Act 2025 was laid by NASSBER. This is our pedigree and will forever exemplify what can happen when the public and private sectors collaborate for good.

    “The NBA-SBL and the ESC have expressed mutual concerns for the development of the Nigerian economy. We recognise the indispensable role that a strong legal, regulatory, and legislative system plays in attracting investment, fostering innovation, and ensuring fair play.

    “We also understand the power of networks and coalitions in achieving optimal results in today’s interconnected world. This MoU is a testament to our shared vision and our agreement to leverage each other’s goodwill and expertise.

    This MoU formalises our commitment to jointly work towards contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth and development. It sets out a clear framework for collaboration, enabling us to: “Jointly drive legislative, regulatory, and judicial reforms through research, impactful policy recommendations, workshops, and advocacy campaigns.

    Develop and deliver effective capacity-building programs by deploying relevant experts and leveraging diverse talent pools to provide invaluable insights on legal frameworks. Maintain transparency and accountability across all initiatives, fostering a collaborative environment to achieve our mutual goals.

    “This partnership is not merely about signing a document; it is about forging a strong alliance that will actively work to improve the ease of doing business in Nigeria. It involves creating platforms for dialogue with regulators, conducting meticulous research on legislative gaps, and providing timely insights into parliamentary decisions.

    “We are confident that through our combined efforts, we will be able to foster an environment where businesses can thrive, where justice is accessible, and where economic prosperity becomes a tangible reality.”