Sultan Praises Ooni for Launching Ojaja University’s Ile-Ife Campus

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has commended the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, for establishing the Ile-Ife campus of Ojaja University, describing it as a legacy project that will uplift communities. Speaking during the sod-turning ceremony marking the Ooni’s 10th coronation anniversary, the Sultan urged Nigerians to pray for national and traditional leaders.
The Ooni highlighted the university’s rapid growth since its acquisition in 2022 and reaffirmed his commitment to youth development. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jeleel Ojuade, revealed that the new campus will serve as a cultural and creative hub, hosting programmes in arts, culture, media, and creative technologies.


#OjajaUniversity

#OoniOfIfe

#SultanOfSokoto

Photos from the ongoing rehabilitation of the Bauchi–Gombe Road under the Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks a significant step toward transforming one of the most neglected federal roads in the North-East.

For years, the Bauchi–Gombe corridor was widely regarded as one of the worst roads to travel on, causing hardship for motorists, traders, and communities that rely on it for daily movement and economic activities. Today, that narrative is changing, as extensive rehabilitation work is visibly underway.

This progress is a testament to the dedication of Engr. David Umahi, the Honourable Minister of Works, whose leadership reflects the Federal Government’s strong commitment to delivering quality infrastructure, enhancing regional connectivity, and driving national development.

With this project, the administration is not only easing transportation challenges but also boosting commerce, safety, and socioeconomic growth across the region.

FG says they attract $2 billion in CNG investments, aim for $5 billion by 2027.

The Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles (PiCNG) has successfully drawn over $2 billion from private investors into Nigeria's CNG sector, with ambitions to reach $5 billion by 2027.

This announcement came from PiCNG's Executive Chairman and CEO, Ismaeel Ahmed, during the launch of innovative CNG technologies by Alfa Design Nigeria Limited in Abuja on Friday. Ahmed's remarks were delivered by the initiative's Chief Compliance Officer, Zayyanu Tambari.

He highlighted the sector's rapid transformation: "As of 2023, when this programme started, the CNG sector was virtually non-existent. It was not really attracting any serious investment from any quarters. Today, as I speak, we have attracted over 1.8 billion dollars in investments. We have rounded up to two billion dollars of private sector investment in the CNG subsector in just two years."

Describing the $5 billion goal as "modest," Ahmed suggested that surging investor enthusiasm could push investments into "double-digit" billions by the target year.

The said initiative has already generated more than 80,000 direct jobs, with projections to expand to 300,000 by 2027. "We are already at 80,000 direct jobs," Ahmed noted. "Again, we are reasonably confident we will meet and exceed this target."

He added that Infrastructure growth has been equally impressive. Conversion centers for CNG vehicles have surged from just seven in 2023, following President Bola Tinubu's launch of the program, to 369 today, with plans for 3,000 by 2027.

He said refueling stations have also multiplied: from 20 in 2023 to over 68 licensed outlets, plus more than 150 in various stages of construction. The vision includes 2,000 to 2,500 retail stations nationwide by 2027.

Nigerian Lady Who Moved Back Home Relocates to US After 5 Years, Shares Culture Shocks and Lessons

A Nigerian lady, Nora, has returned to the United States five years after moving back to Nigeria following her graduation in the US. She shared on TikTok that she initially returned with no clear plan except to support her family business, but soon encountered major culture shocks such as power outages, economic instability, and social adjustments. Despite these challenges, Nora said she experienced beauty in Nigerian culture, food, community, and personal growth. Now back in the US, she questions where her heart truly belongs and is launching a series about real experiences of Nigerians in the diaspora who consider returning home. Her story has sparked mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians reflecting on the realities of “japa,” “japada,” and identity.

FG Sets N1,512/$ Exchange Rate Target for 2026 in New Fiscal Framework

The Federal Government has unveiled a new exchange rate projection of N1,512 per dollar for the 2026 budget under the 2026–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper (MTEF/FSP). The plan also includes a conservative oil price benchmark of $64.85 per barrel, and two production targets: 2.06mbpd (target) and 1.80mbpd (benchmark).
According to Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, Nigeria is projecting GDP growth of 4.68%, gross federation revenue of N50.74 trillion, and a federal budget deficit of N20.10 trillion. Major spending areas include debt servicing, statutory transfers, and recurrent expenditure.
The announcement comes as Nigeria’s external reserves rise to $42.2 billion, strengthening the country’s FX stability outlook.

Global Green Economy Hits $5 Trillion, Set to Grow to $7 Trillion by 2030 — WEF Report

The World Economic Forum (WEF) reports that the global green economy has surpassed $5 trillion and is projected to exceed $7 trillion annually by 2030, driven by rapid growth in clean technologies such as solar, wind, batteries, and electric vehicles. According to the WEF–BCG report, green revenues are expanding twice as fast as conventional revenues, with companies in green markets enjoying cheaper capital and valuation premiums. However, technologies like low-carbon hydrogen and carbon capture still require major policy and financial support to achieve cost competitiveness.
The report highlights China’s dominant role in global clean-energy investment and innovation, while the International Energy Agency (IEA) warns that billions still lack access to electricity and clean cooking, requiring sustained global financing. Despite economic headwinds, green investments continue to break records, positioning the sector as one of the world’s fastest-growing economic engines.

SAMKLEF Continues to seek Tinubu's face and favor by adding HE Mr. Peter Obi on his to do list

I have contributed more to Nigeria’s growth than Peter Obi — and that’s a fact.
Peter Obi is a public servant. I am a creator, a builder, and an employer.

I have created more job opportunities for Nigerian youths than he ever has.
I pioneered the new Afrobeats sound that has generated trillions for young Nigerians worldwide.

I produced one of the greatest artists, Wizkid, co-directed Holla at Your Boy, discovered talents like Simi, and even helped push people like Tunde Ednut into the music scene.

I’m one of the reasons many Nigerians are seeing food to chop in London today — platforms and careers were built on the wave we created.

The music industry is a trillion-dollar global force, and I am one of its foundations.

Gov. Buni Approves Scholarships for 28,346 Yobe Students, Doubles All Allowances

Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni , has approved the disbursement of scholarships and bursaries to 28,346 Yobe State indigenes currently studying in tertiary institutions across Nigeria, in what has been described as one of the most far-reaching educational interventions by any state government in recent times.

The approval underscores the Governor’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, access to education, and human capital development as critical pillars for sustainable growth.

According to the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Scholarship Board (YSSB), Dr. Kagu Abubakar, Yobe State University recorded the highest number of beneficiaries with 7,636 successful applicants, reflecting the steady growth of the institution and the increasing enrolment of Yobe indigenes in higher education. Students of other universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and specialized institutions across the country are also captured in the comprehensive beneficiary list.

Dr. Kagu disclosed that Governor Buni has further approved a 100 percent increment in all categories of scholarship payments, effectively doubling what students previously received.
Under the new payment regime, PGDE, Master’s and PhD students will now receive ₦110,000, up from the former ₦55,000.

While undergraduate students will receive ₦46,000, as against ₦23,000 previously paid. HND, NCE and National Diploma students will now receive ₦34,000, instead of the former ₦17,000, while students pursuing other Diploma, Certificate and Consultancy programmes will now receive ₦26,000, up from ₦13,000.

The increment, he noted, is in recognition of the prevailing economic realities and the rising cost of education across the country.

To ensure transparency, efficiency and smooth implementation of the exercise, the Scholarship Board recently convened a joint stakeholders’ meeting involving representatives of the House Committee on Higher Education, officials of the Ministry of Higher Education, Youth and Sports, education Focal Persons, as well as student leaders from various tertiary institutions.

The meeting reviewed the operational framework, harmonized schedules and addressed logistical issues to guarantee the successful execution of the exercise nationwide.

In line with established procedures, Dr. Kagu stated that the names, admission details and academic records of all successful beneficiaries will be forwarded to their respective institutions and recognized student bodies, while a comprehensive timetable for the disbursement exercise will be officially released to guide students and institutions accordingly. This, he emphasized, is to prevent congestion, ensure orderliness and eliminate sharp practices.

The Executive Secretary conveyed the gratitude and appreciation of students, parents and guardians across Yobe State to Governor Mai Mala Buni for his continued and consistent investment in education.

He noted that the scholarship scheme has remained a major source of relief for thousands of families, improved school retention rates, and strengthened access to tertiary education for indigent but brilliant students across the state.

Dr. Kagu assured that the Office of the Public Relations Officer of the Yobe State Scholarship Board will continue to provide regular updates to all schools, beneficiaries and the general public on developments relating to the exercise, stressing that the Board remains committed to accountability, transparency and timely service delivery in the execution of its mandate.

The Federal Executive Council has rolled out a new wave of financial support aimed at strengthening education, boosting entrepreneurship, and accelerating national development. At Wednesday’s meeting, the Council approved a $50 million Islamic Development Bank facility for UBESTATE, targeted at expanding educational infrastructure and improving learning outcomes across the state.

In addition, FEC endorsed a $1 million African Development Bank investment loan designed to empower young entrepreneurs, stimulate SME growth, and unlock innovation among youth-led businesses. These approvals form part of President Bola Tinubu’s broader economic reform strategy

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, on Monday declared that Nigeria’s ambition to evolve into a trillion-dollar economy hinges significantly on the growth and empowerment of small and medium-sized enterprises.

Job Title: Area Customer Manager (ACM)
Job Purpose:
The Area Customer Manager is responsible for driving customer acquisition, retention, and growth within a defined territory. The role emphasizes expanding customer base, increasing sales volume, and deepening relationships by promoting solutions such as BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) and Customer Membership programs that enhance loyalty and market share.

Location: Amuwo Odofin
Key Responsibilities:

1. Customer Growth & Acquisition
• Identify, prospect, and onboard new retail customers in the assigned territory.
• Drive adoption of the BNPL(Buy Now Pay Later) feature to increase purchasing power and sales turnover.
• Promote and enroll customers into the Membership program to strengthen loyalty.

2. Sales & Revenue Delivery
• Achieve monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets.
• Increase sales volume through BNPL utilization and membership-driven repeat purchases.
• Monitor competitor activity and adjust strategies to stay ahead.
3. Customer Relationship Management
• Build and maintain long-term customer relationships.
• Ensure customer satisfaction by resolving issues quickly and effectively.
• Conduct regular customer visits and promote added-value services like BNPL and Membership.
4. Team & Territory Management
• Responsible for growing team members a minimum of 10 Active Account managers, Supervise, coach, and support account managers within the territory.
• Ensure route planning, market coverage, and daily execution excellence.
• Track performance, motivate the team, and enforce discipline in execution.
• Reporting & Insights
• Submit daily/weekly/monthly reports on sales, Customer acquisiton, BNPL adoption, and membership sign-ups.
• Provide actionable insights on customer behavior and growth opportunities.
• Work with cross-functional teams (Marketing, Finance, Logistics) to drive customer loyalty and financial inclusion.
Key Requirements (Skills & Qualifications):
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or related field.
• Minimum 3–5 years in Sales/Account/Area Management (FMCG, Retail, or Distribution preferred).
• Experience in driving customer programs (loyalty, membership, or BNPL adoption).
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.
• Analytical mindset with proven track record of growing customer base and sales.
Interested and qualified persons should send cv to careers@omniretail.africa using the subject head and location as job title

Black Friday 2025: Shopper Trends Shift as Inflation, Tariffs, and Early Deals Reshape Holiday Spending

Black Friday no longer sparks midnight mall crowds and in-store chaos, but it remains the busiest in-store shopping day of the year and marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season. This year’s kickoff comes amid weakened consumer confidence tied to inflation, slow hiring, and economic uncertainty following a government shutdown. Shoppers are increasingly price-sensitive but still willing to spend on key occasions.

Retailers have faced pressure from Trump-era tariffs, prompting many to accelerate shipments or absorb extra import costs. Prices rose sharply in categories like toys, baby products, and housewares, with 83% of toys seeing at least a 5% price increase in September. Despite these challenges, foot traffic at major malls — including the Mall of America — has surpassed pre-pandemic levels, signaling strong momentum.

Online spending is also surging, with consumers spending $79.7 billion from Nov. 1–23, a 7.5% increase over last year. Forecasts predict moderate overall holiday sales growth, and analysts say shoppers—though uneasy—are still showing up. According to Adobe Analytics, Black Friday offers the deepest discounts on TVs, toys, and appliances, while Cyber Monday will be the best time to buy apparel and computers.
#black_friday #U.S. retail economy
#Mall of America foot traffic

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of the National Tax Policy Implementation Committee (NTPIC).

The committee, which Mr Joseph Tegbe chairs, will ensure the implementation of the administration's landmark tax reforms in line with the economic aspirations of the government and the people of Nigeria.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, will oversee the committee's work.

The Committee will undertake extensive consultations across the public and private sectors to ensure broad-based input into the implementation process.

Its chairman, Tegbe, is a Fellow of both the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA) and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (FCIT).

He has over 35 years of professional experience across the public and private sectors, having previously served as a Senior Partner and Head of Advisory Services at KPMG Africa.

Mrs Sanyade Okoli, Special Adviser to the President on Finance and Economy, will serve as the Committee's Secretary. Members also include Ismaeel Ahmed, Rukaiya El Rufai, and others.

In establishing the Committee, President Tinubu emphasised that effective implementation of the Tax Acts is central to the nation's economic transformation agenda and critical to strengthening public finance management while safeguarding the legitimate expectations of investors and the productive sectors.

"These new Tax Acts reflect our administration's commitment to building a fair, transparent, and technology-driven tax system that supports economic growth while protecting the interests of citizens and businesses.

"The National Tax Policy Implementation Committee will ensure coherent, effective, and well-aligned implementation across all levels of government," the President stated.

The NTPIC's mandate emphasises broad stakeholder consultation through nationwide engagements with the private sector, professional bodies, and subnational governments, alongside public awareness campaigns to support effective implementation of the new tax laws.

It also prioritises strong inter-agency coordination by aligning the work of key revenue and regulatory institutions, harmonising existing frameworks with new statutes, and ensuring unified oversight and reporting throughout the transition process.

The Committee comprises experts drawn from tax administration, finance, law, the private sector, and civil society, ensuring a balanced and inclusive approach to policy execution.

The chairman expressed the team's readiness to work diligently in support of national development.

"We understand the strategic importance of these Tax Acts. Our committee will work closely with all stakeholders to support the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy in ensuring seamless implementation and building public trust in the tax system," he said.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, added:
"With the establishment of this Committee, Mr President has not only set the direction but also provided the authority and support required to reset not just the tax system but the entire fiscal policy framework of Government, to deliver significant economic growth for the benefit of all Nigerians."

The NTPIC is expected to enhance revenue mobilisation, minimise leakages, and reinforce accountability, thereby strengthening the government's fiscal sustainability and national development objectives.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
November 28, 2025

BREAKING NEWS: What’s happening in Enugu right now could redefine Nigeria’s tech future.

Across six campuses, 35 exceptional teams have entered a one-week, government-funded bootcamp where young innovators are turning raw ideas into real products — AI tools, AgriTech systems, HealthTech platforms, EdTech engines, fintech rails and more.

This isn’t a regular hackathon.

It’s a core pillar of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s (
@pnmbah
) Digital Economy Transformation Plan, engineered to build a $30B digital economy by placing youth-led innovation at the heart of growth.

Led by the Enugu MSME & Startup Agency (
@enugusmeagency
), with support from
@genesystechhub
,
@thegarageng_
and Capitis Global Ventures, the program is building a structured innovation pipeline:

Classroom → Bootcamp → Accelerator → Market → Jobs.

Enugu is no longer waiting for the future.

Enugu is building it — founder by founder, campus by campus.

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"Our Goal Is To Use Education To End Poverty", President Tinubu Tells Duke of Edinburgh.

President Bola Tinubu emphasized that his administration’s economic and institutional reforms aim to equip Nigerian youths with globally competitive skills to secure their future. Speaking during a meeting with the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, at the State House, Abuja, on Monday, Tinubu stated, “Our goal is to use education to drive down poverty.”

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealed that discussions also covered plans for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award events in Lagos.

Tinubu highlighted that Nigeria’s participation in the G-20 this week will focus on youth empowerment and economic growth, stressing that reforms prioritize demography, skills development, and opportunities for young people.

He noted the introduction of a special education loan fund to ensure university students receive support to complete their studies, alongside broader reforms to enhance infrastructure, including fibre optics, security, and crime reduction initiatives. Tinubu also acknowledged humanitarian agencies for their role in supporting terrorism victims.

Finance Minister Wale Edun briefed attendees on the country’s median age of 17 and explained that policies are designed to expand youth participation, skill acquisition, and growth prospects. Prince Edward praised Nigeria’s reforms and highlighted the Lagos events, where 320 youths will be recognized for pursuing their passions, developing skills, and contributing to national development.

Also present were the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Montgomery; the Duke’s Private Secretary, Alex Potts; the Award’s Secretary-General, Martin Houghton-Brown; and International Trustee Muhoho Kenyatta.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global program promoting non-formal education through schools, youth organizations, and community groups to develop skills, resilience, and service among young people.

Technological Advancements Transforming the Collation Shrink Films Market

The packaging industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by e-commerce growth, supply chain optimization, and the increasing need for product protection and presentation. Collation shrink films have emerged as a critical solution for bundling multiple items, safeguarding them during transit, and creating visually appealing retail displays. Their use spans industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and consumer electronics, highlighting their versatility and indispensability in modern packaging.

The Collation Shrink Films Market
is growing steadily as companies focus on improving packaging efficiency, reducing waste, and enhancing product visibility. Businesses rely on comprehensive insights into Collation Shrink Films Demand
to understand consumption patterns, forecast growth, and develop strategic production plans. Such insights allow stakeholders to identify high-growth regions, prioritize investment, and adopt suitable materials and technologies.

Polyethylene remains the leading material due to its affordability, durability, and ease of application, while polypropylene and PVC are increasingly chosen for high-clarity, premium packaging. Advanced multilayer films offer superior puncture resistance, shrink properties, and optical quality, making them ideal for large-scale industrial applications. These innovations allow manufacturers to enhance packaging performance while maintaining operational efficiency.

Automation is a key driver of market expansion. Modern shrink-wrapping machines integrated with robotics and smart conveyor systems increase throughput, minimize labor costs, and ensure uniform film application. IoT-enabled solutions further optimize production by monitoring film usage, detecting defects, and supporting predictive maintenance.

Environmental concerns are shaping material selection and adoption. The trend toward recyclable, biodegradable, and energy-efficient films aligns with global sustainability initiatives and growing consumer awareness. Regions with stringent regulations and high eco-consciousness, such as Europe and North America, are leading in sustainable film adoption, while emerging markets are gradually following suit.

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/collation-shrink-films-market-two-11582

NRA is a non-partisan movement — created by citizens, for citizens. We are not influenced by any political party. Our mission is simple: to promote good governance, and to ensure both leaders and citizens are accountable for Nigeria’s growth and development

"Ponmo consumption costs Nigeria’s leather industry $5bn" — FG cries out, warns citizens against consumption.

The Federal Government has raised fresh concerns over the widespread consumption of hides and skins, popularly known as ponmo, warning that the practice is harming Nigeria’s multi-billion-dollar leather industry.

Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council, Prof. Nnanyelugo Ikemounso, issued the warning on Thursday during the National Campaign Against the Consumption of Ponmo in Abuja.

He explained that diverting hides and skins for food deprives local manufacturers of essential raw materials needed to sustain and grow the leather sector. 

According to him, the Nigerian leather goods market was valued at $2.79 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $4.96 billion by 2033, but this growth could be derailed if ponmo consumption continues unchecked.

“From an economic and industrial standpoint, cowhides are one of Nigeria’s most valuable raw materials.

Our nation possesses a vibrant leather industry with enormous potential for job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and contributions to GDP,” he said.

Prof. Ikemounso added: “Sadly, the continuous diversion of hides for ponmo consumption denies our industries access to quality raw materials, weakens our tanning and leather manufacturing sector, and diminishes Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global leather market.”

He noted that the global leather value chain is valued between $420 billion and $1 trillion, stressing that with the right policies, infrastructure, and access to raw materials, Nigeria can significantly expand its share.

Ikemounso clarified that the campaign is not targeted at cultural or dietary practices but aims to ensure hides and skins are channelled into more productive industrial use for national economic benefit.