Rising demand for high-quality animal feed, expansion of livestock and aquaculture farming, and advancements in automated pelletizing technologies are driving the adoption of modern feed pellet machines worldwide.

https://www.theinsightpartners.com/reports/feed-pellet-machine-market

#feedpelletmachinemarket #agriculturetechnology #animalfeedindustry #marketresearch #agritech

Tinubu Returns to Abuja After Weeks Away, Seals Major Nigeria–UAE Trade Deal in Abu Dhabi

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja after weeks abroad, following his participation in the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. During the summit, Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates signed a landmark Economic Partnership Agreement aimed at boosting trade, investment, and technology transfer. The deal grants duty-free access for thousands of Nigerian products into the UAE market and covers key sectors such as energy, agriculture, infrastructure, mining, and renewables. Tinubu’s trip, which began with a stay in Paris, underscores his administration’s push to attract foreign investment, expand non-oil exports, and reposition Nigeria in the global economy.


#TinubuReturns #NigeriaUAEDeal #NaijaEconomy

PRESIDENT TINUBU RETURNS TO NIGERIA AFTER ABU DHABI TRIP……

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Nigeria after participating in the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW2026) alongside key ministers. According to a statement by his Special Adviser, Bayo Onanuga, Nigeria signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the United Arab Emirates to deepen economic cooperation. The deal targets increased trade, investment, technology transfer, and collaboration in energy, infrastructure, agriculture, mining, and renewables. Tinubu also announced a Nigeria–UAE INVESTOPIA in Lagos this February and said Nigeria plans to mobilise up to $30bn yearly for climate and green industrial finance.
#fintternews

Tinubu Hails Abubakar Kyari on Birthday, Praises Food Reforms

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Agriculture and Food Security Minister, Senator Abubakar Kyari, on his birthday, praising his leadership and reforms in Nigeria’s agriculture sector. Tinubu described Kyari as a seasoned statesman with years of service in the House of Representatives, Senate and APC leadership. He commended his push for mechanisation, stronger value chains and youth participation in farming. According to the president, these efforts have helped stabilise food prices, curb inflation and make agriculture more profitable. Tinubu prayed for Kyari’s strength to achieve food sufficiency.

#Tinubu #AbubakarKyari #FoodSecurity

Nigeria and UAE Sign CEPA to Boost Bilateral Trade

Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) aimed at strengthening trade, investment, and economic cooperation between the two countries.

The agreement is expected to increase market access, facilitate investment flows, and enhance economic collaboration, particularly in sectors such as energy, agriculture, technology, and infrastructure.

Officials from both nations hailed the pact as a milestone in bilateral relations, positioning Nigeria and the UAE for deeper economic integration and sustainable growth.

Another Tori oo! Nigeria, EU Ready to Tighten Relationship, Set Big 2026 Abuja Summit

Nigeria and the European Union don agree to strengthen their strategic partnership, with a major ministerial summit scheduled for Abuja in March 2026. According to a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimibie Ebienfa, the decision follow high-level talks between Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and EU Ambassador, Gautier Mignot. Both sides agree say future cooperation go focus more on non-oil sectors like agriculture, digital economy and green innovation, as Nigeria dey look for ways to reduce dependence on crude oil. The EU also pledge continued support for counter-terrorism, Gulf of Guinea maritime security and tackling root causes of instability such as youth unemployment. Nigeria, on her part, call for stronger EU backing on climate adaptation and green technology. Dem also agree on balanced migration approach through skills partnerships under the EU “Global Gateway” initiative, aimed at boosting infrastructure, clean energy and youth development. Both parties express confidence say 2026 go be turning point for deeper cooperation. Wahala oo, Nigeria foreign partnership don enter new level.

Wahala oo! Niger Govt Give Kainji Lake Residents Two Months to Comot as Insecurity Don Turn Area to Hideout for Criminals

Niger State Government don give residents of small communities around Kainji Lake for Borgu LGA two months ultimatum make dem relocate, as part of effort to flush out criminals hiding inside the forests. Governor Umaru Bago drop the directive during condolence visit to the Emir of Borgu after recent terrorist attack wey claim many lives. According to the governor, unmonitored movement of people into the area don make security work difficult, as informants dey sabotage operations. He urge traditional rulers to join hands with security agencies to tackle insecurity. Minister of State for Agriculture, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, support the plan, say resettlement go allow government reclaim the forest and secure the communities. The Emir of Borgu also promise to help identify informants and protect lives and property. This directive come after deadly attacks, including the Kasuwan Daji market massacre and school abduction in Agwara. For many residents, the order raise fear and questions about where dem go go next. Wahala oo, insecurity don turn people to refugees for their own land.

Nigerian Research Institute to Spend N1.1B on Grinding & Welding Equipment to Empower Youths and Women in 2026

The National Cereals Research Institute has revealed plans to spend ₦1.1 billion on grinding machines, welding equipment, mobile carts, and vulcanising machines in 2026. The initiative aims to empower youths and women in the Niger Delta States to start small businesses.

In addition, the institute allocated ₦4.1 billion to supply grains to rural farmers in selected South-South communities, and another ₦4.9 billion to purchase grains for farmers nationwide. A further ₦350 million is earmarked for capacity building for grain producers in South-West Nigeria.

The announcement comes amid concerns raised by civic watchdog MonITng, which previously criticized empowerment projects in Aguata Federal Constituency, Anambra State, as mismanaged and outdated, arguing that providing wheelbarrows, hoes, and cutlasses does not adequately equip youths for today’s economy.

MonITng stressed that true empowerment should combine skills training (like welding, ICT, tailoring, or agro-processing) with meaningful tools, rather than handing out obsolete implements.

At a time when nations invest in technology-driven agriculture and digital empowerment, spending millions on cutlasses and wheelbarrows is a waste of public funds,” the group said.



The 2026 plan by the Cereals Research Institute reflects a shift towards more practical and business-oriented empowerment programs, aimed at giving Nigerians the tools to create sustainable livelihoods.

Why Did the Trump Administration Freeze $129 Million in USDA Funds to Minnesota and Minneapolis Over Fraud Allegations, and Who Is Accountable for the Feeding Our Future Scandal?

The Trump administration has taken decisive action against Minnesota and Minneapolis, suspending over $129 million in USDA federal funding amid allegations of “widespread and systemic fraud.” U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins cited repeated failures in federal program oversight, including mismanagement of programs like Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The decision follows revelations from the Feeding Our Future scandal, in which a Minneapolis nonprofit allegedly defrauded taxpayers of nearly $250 million intended to feed children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rollins described the fraud as “industrial-scale”, involving 78 defendants charged in what the Department of Justice calls the largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the U.S.

In her letter to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, Rollins highlighted additional alleged abuses in the Paycheck Protection Program, housing assistance schemes, and SNAP misreporting. Officials who resisted federal oversight and challenged USDA directives were also called out for enabling continued fraud.

As a result, all active and future USDA awards to Minnesota and Minneapolis—totaling $129.18 million—are suspended immediately. Authorities have 30 days to provide detailed payment justifications; failure to comply could extend the suspension. Rollins emphasized that this action represents the administration’s zero-tolerance policy on fraud, waste, and abuse, protecting American taxpayers and ensuring funds reach those who need them.

This unprecedented suspension raises urgent questions: How did fraud reach such scale in Minnesota’s federal programs? Who is responsible for oversight failures? Will federal authorities enforce accountability, and how will affected programs recover? The frozen funds underscore a growing national focus on transparency, stewardship, and integrity in public funding.

Trump Announces Venezuela Will Buy Only American-Made Products From New Oil Deal Funds

U.S. President Donald J. Trump announced that Venezuela will use proceeds from a newly agreed oil deal to purchase exclusively American-made products, strengthening economic ties between the two countries. The announcement was made via Trump’s Truth social media platform, where he outlined that the purchases will span several key U.S. industries, including agriculture, medicines, medical devices, and energy infrastructure equipment to improve Venezuela’s electric grid and energy facilities.

Trump framed the agreement as a strategic move that positions the United States as Venezuela’s principal commercial partner, describing it as a “wise choice” benefiting both nations. The oil deal allows Venezuela to export $2 billion worth of crude oil to the U.S., diverting supplies away from China and helping Caracas avoid production cuts caused by export restrictions and storage bottlenecks.

The agreement comes amid heightened U.S. pressure on Venezuela, which previously included sanctions and a blockade on oil exports starting in mid-December 2025. The deal also reflects compliance by Venezuelan authorities with U.S. demands to open the oil sector to American companies, signaling a potential shift in U.S.–Venezuela relations after months of tension.

This arrangement is expected to boost U.S. exports, support key domestic industries, and expand U.S. influence in the South American energy market, while providing Venezuela access to critical products and technology to modernize its energy infrastructure.

Minister Sympathises with Borgu Victims After Deadly New Year Terror Attack

In a heartfelt statement, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security Dr Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi expressed deep sorrow over a brutal terrorist attack on Kasuwan Daji rural communities in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, which claimed 42 lives just three days into the New Year.

The assault, which occurred on January 3, left scores injured, homes destroyed, and an unknown number of residents abducted, including women, children, and the elderly.

Dr Abdullahi described the violence as "senseless, deliberate, and murderous," highlighting the "depravity of the terrorists and bandits" who disrupted the peaceful livelihoods of the affected communities.

"My heart goes out to the families who have lost their loved ones, just as I wish a quick recovery to the many who were injured during the rage of atrocities," the minister said in his statement released on Tuesday.

He extended support to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, acknowledging the "challenging times" and praising the governor's efforts to enhance security for residents, particularly in vulnerable areas.

Urging resilience among Borgu residents, the minister called for unity against the perpetrators.

"Let us grieve, because we have lost our loved ones and our possessions. But I call on the Borgu communities to invoke their age-old spirit of resilience, wipe away their tears, and firmly resolve to never allow the lawless terrorists and bandits dictate their rhythm of life," he stated.

Dr Abdullahi emphasised the indiscriminate nature of the violence, noting that the attackers target individuals regardless of religion or ethnicity whether Bussawa, Hausa, Kambari, or Fulani.

He encouraged communities to collaborate with security forces to eliminate the threats, asserting that Borgu must not become a "haven nor a theatre for their atrocities."

The minister reassured residents of President Tinubu's commitment to pursuing and prosecuting those responsible for the "heinous crimes." Security agencies have yet to provide further details on the ongoing investigation or rescue efforts for the abducted.

FG Reopens YEIDEP Batch B Portal: How Young Nigerians Can Apply for ₦50,000–₦500,000 Youth Entrepreneurship Grants

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reopened applications for Batch B of the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalisation Programme (YEIDEP), offering grants between ₦50,000 and ₦500,000 to support youth entrepreneurship. The initiative targets Nigerians aged 18–35 with viable business ideas, providing funding, training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to empower young entrepreneurs and tackle unemployment.

Applicants must possess a valid NIN and BVN and be willing to participate in training and mentorship programs. Sectors supported include agriculture, technology, creative industries, renewable energy, sports, entertainment, and small retail services.

The programme aims to foster economic inclusion, strengthen local communities, and encourage productive livelihoods. Early application is advised, and registration is free through the official YEIDEP portal.

University of The Gambia Renames Agriculture Faculty After Influential Nigerian Dr. Akinwumi Adesina for Transforming African Agriculture

The University of The Gambia has renamed its School of Agriculture and Environmental Services after Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, former President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), in recognition of his transformative impact on agriculture, food security, and development across Africa. President Adama Barrow unveiled a plaque honoring Adesina’s visionary leadership, particularly his work through AfDB’s High 5s agenda, including the Feed Africa Strategy, which improved food security for over 104 million people.

The university highlighted Adesina’s earlier reforms as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and stated that renaming the faculty aims to inspire students to emulate his dedication to Africa’s development. In a letter of appreciation, Adesina expressed deep gratitude, calling the honor “a rare recognition that immortalizes his contributions to African agriculture.”

Kogi State Gov Signs 2026 Budget Into Law

While signing the 2026 budget tagged, budget of shared prosperity, driving Sustainable growth, governor Ahmed Usman Ododo appreciates members of the state house of assembly for their due deligence and prompt passage of the appropriation bill saying that, it is for the interest of growth and development of the state.

Governor ododo says his administration remains committed to fiscal discipline, transparent and prudent management of state resources.

The appropriation law, governor Ododo says will be implemented in accordance with the law with every naira deployed to advance the progress of the citizens.

From education, health care, agriculture, road infrastructure, human and youth employment, governor Ahmed ododo mentioned that his administration has recorded modest but impactful achievements.

The Governor further unveils plans for an airport and other infrastructural development in the state.

On security he calls on citizens to adhere to the laid down security protocol saying that it is a shared responsibility with a view of keeping the state safe.

Tinubu Vows Stronger International Security Cooperation in 2026 to Eliminate Terrorists, Boost Peace, and Safeguard Nigeria’s Sovereignty

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eliminating terrorism and criminal threats in Nigeria through stronger collaboration with regional and global partners in 2026. In his New Year message to Nigerians, the President stressed that economic reforms and national development cannot succeed without peace, security, and stability.

Tinubu acknowledged the persistent security challenges facing the country, noting that criminal and terrorist groups continue to threaten lives and national unity. He disclosed that Nigeria has already carried out joint counter-terrorism operations with international partners, including the United States, citing the December 24 airstrikes against terrorist targets in parts of the Northwest. According to him, military operations have continued across the Northwest and Northeast to dismantle terror networks and criminal strongholds.

Looking ahead, the President said Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies will deepen international cooperation in 2026 to eliminate all threats to national security. He reiterated the government’s resolve to protect citizens, property, and Nigeria’s territorial integrity, while also restating his support for security sector reforms such as decentralised policing and the deployment of properly regulated forest guards to combat terrorism and banditry effectively.

Beyond security, Tinubu said 2026 would mark a more robust phase of economic growth, with tangible improvements in citizens’ lives. He announced plans to accelerate the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, aimed at empowering at least 10 million Nigerians through grassroots economic activities across the country’s 8,809 wards. The President added that investments in agriculture, trade, mining, and critical infrastructure—including roads, power, ports, railways, healthcare, and education—will continue without interruption.

Calling for unity and shared responsibility, Tinubu urged Nigerians to support nation-building efforts with patriotism and integrity. He concluded by wishing citizens a peaceful, productive, and prosperous New Year, while praying for the safety of Nigeria’s troops and the defeat of forces threatening the nation’s peace and stability.

2026 Begins New Era of Economic Growth, Stability and Reform as President Tinubu Projects Lower Inflation, Strong GDP Growth and Improved Security in New Year Address

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that 2026 marks the beginning of a more robust phase of economic growth for Nigeria, citing steady gains recorded in 2025 despite global economic challenges. In his New Year address, the President said the government sustained major reforms, achieved a fiscal reset and recorded measurable progress in GDP growth, trade surpluses, exchange rate stability and declining inflation.

According to Tinubu, Nigeria closed 2025 with quarterly GDP growth projected to exceed 4 percent annually, while inflation dropped below 15 percent in line with government targets. He noted that the Nigerian Stock Exchange recorded a strong 48.12 percent gain, foreign reserves rose to $45.4 billion, and foreign direct investment surged to $720 million in the third quarter of 2025, reflecting renewed investor confidence backed by positive assessments from global rating agencies.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline and tax reform, stressing that harmonising taxes across all levels of government will reduce the burden on citizens, boost revenue sustainably and expand fiscal space for infrastructure and human capital development. He added that the 2026 budget is designed to consolidate reforms and position Nigeria for long-term stability and prosperity.

On security, Tinubu acknowledged ongoing threats from terrorism and criminal networks but said decisive actions, including coordinated operations with international partners, have weakened terror groups in the Northwest and Northeast. He pledged deeper cooperation with global and regional partners in 2026, while reiterating support for decentralised policing and regulated forest guards to tackle insecurity.

President Tinubu also outlined plans to accelerate inclusive growth through the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, targeting the empowerment of at least 10 million Nigerians across the country’s 8,809 wards. He said the government will continue investing in infrastructure, agriculture, mining, healthcare, education and food security to improve living standards nationwide.

Calling for unity, patriotism and shared responsibility, the President urged Nigerians to support ongoing reforms, expressing confidence that 2026 will deliver tangible improvements in the lives of citizens and strengthen national stability.

Overpriced’ ₦355 Million ICT Centre in Akwa-Ibom Facilitated by Senate President Akpabio Remains Poorly Equipped, Raises Anti-Corruption Concerns

A civic technology platform, MonITNG, has flagged an “overpriced” ₦355 million ICT centre in Etim Ekpo, Akwa-Ibom North West Senatorial District, facilitated by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The project, executed through the Federal Cooperative College, Ibadan under the Ministry of Agriculture, is largely incomplete and poorly equipped, providing only 25 desktop computers, basic tables, and stools. Key facilities such as UPS systems, printers, backup power, and a perimeter fence are missing, rendering the centre largely unusable. MonITNG highlighted concerns over political branding and misuse of public funds, calling for contractors to complete the project and anti-corruption agencies to investigate, emphasizing that public resources must benefit communities rather than serve political interests.

NNPP Kano Chairman Urges Members Not to Defect to APC Amid Rising Political Tensions

Suleiman Hashim Dungurawa, NNPP Kano State Chairman, has urged party members to resist plans to defect to the APC. Speaking on behalf of both state and national leadership, he emphasized that the NNPP’s national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, opposes any defections. Dungurawa stressed that staying in the party is crucial for fulfilling NNPP’s vision of improving governance, education, agriculture, commerce, and other key sectors in Kano State. He also appealed on moral and religious grounds for members to remain committed.

Fauziya Auwal: 10 Key Facts About Nigeria’s First Astronaut Candidate Breaking Barriers in Global Space Science

Fauziya Muhammad Auwal, a postgraduate Physics student at Kaduna State University, has made history as Nigeria’s first astronaut candidate at Titan Space Industries. From nurturing a childhood fascination with astronomy to gaining international exposure through global conferences and competitions, Auwal’s journey reflects resilience, academic excellence, and determination. Specialising in Astrophysics and Space Science Education, she aims to use space technology to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges, including climate change, agriculture, flood control, and security. Beyond personal achievement, Auwal is committed to returning home to build local capacity, inspire young Nigerians—especially women—and pioneer astronomy education in Nigeria, proving that dedication and vision can truly go beyond the stars.

Pat Utomi Slams Nigeria’s Crumbling Roads After 15-Hour Lagos–Asaba Trip, Cites Congestion, Extortion, and Infrastructure Decay

Political economist and public affairs analyst Prof. Pat Utomi has raised alarm over Nigeria’s deteriorating road infrastructure after a Lagos-to-Asaba trip stretched into a grueling 15-hour ordeal, despite no vehicle breakdowns. Utomi detailed the journey on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting that the delay was caused by crumbling roads, severe traffic congestion, and alleged extortion by security operatives along major economic corridors such as the Lagos–Benin–Asaba route.
The journey, which historically took three hours to reach Benin, now took six hours to cover the same stretch. Utomi’s account has reignited public outrage over the state of federal highways, with road users and transport operators noting the economic impact, including higher transport costs, vehicle damage, and delayed goods delivery. Critics argue that while the government pours funds into new mega-projects, critical arteries of the economy are collapsing, undermining commerce, agriculture, and interregional mobility.
Analysts also noted that Nigeria’s near-collapse of the railway system exacerbates the pressure on roads, as frequent breakdowns and limited rail coverage leave roads to bear unsustainable traffic volumes. The consequences are severe: rising transport-driven inflation, reduced productivity, increased road accidents, and widespread frustration. Experts emphasize that functioning road infrastructure is not merely a convenience but a vital component of economic survival.