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Nigeria Advances Aircraft Leasing Company Plans

Toyin Adebayo
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Nigeria Advances Aircraft Leasing Company Plans

LAGOS — Festus Keyamo, SAN, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, on Saturday unveiled a dry-lease Boeing 737-NG aircraft for Air Peace at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA1) apron in Lagos, marking the first such arrival in Nigeria in recent years.

The event also served as the platform for Keyamo to announce that the Federal Government is finalising arrangements to establish a Nigerian Aircraft Leasing Company (NALC), a long-stalled initiative intended to streamline aircraft acquisition for domestic carriers.

Accompanied by NCAA Director-General Capt. Chris Najomo, FAAN Managing Director Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, and other sector leaders, Keyamo praised Air Peace for its “patriotic commitment” to expanding Nigeria’s aviation footprint. The statement was issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood.

Air Peace Chairman Dr. Allen Onyema lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Keyamo for prioritising indigenous operators. “The Minister is not looking for personal gain but for Nigerian aviation to lead Africa,” Onyema said. “The Federal Government now guarantees the business of today.”

The aircraft was sourced from AerCap, the world’s largest lessor. Keyamo described the partnership as evidence of restored global confidence in Nigeria’s regulatory framework, citing the implementation of the Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorisation (IDERA) protocol and related court guidelines.

“We went straight to AerCap because we aimed high,” Keyamo told attendees, which included Irish Ambassador H.E. Peter Ryan, Fidelity Bank Managing Director Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, AerCap Vice-President Dr. Kenneth Okpara, and Boeing Africa Sales Director Gad Wavomba.

In a significant policy update, the minister revealed that late-night talks the previous day with Finance Minister Wale Edun and investors from Dubai and Dublin had produced a viable roadmap for NALC.

“This has been on the aviation agenda for 15 years,” Keyamo said. “Under the model, government and airlines will co-capitalise the entity. Nigeria will negotiate directly with global lessors, backed by sovereign guarantees and private investment, so individual carriers no longer face isolated financing hurdles.”

The dry-lease arrangement with Air Peace—under which the airline handles crew, maintenance, and insurance—exemplifies the operational flexibility the planned leasing company seeks to institutionalise nationwide.

Industry observers note that easier access to modern fleets could help Nigerian carriers compete with foreign operators on lucrative international routes while curbing capital flight associated with overseas leasing deals.

The unveiling aligns with the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda for aviation, which emphasises legislative reform, infrastructure upgrade, and private-sector confidence to position Nigeria as West Africa’s aviation hub.

Pst Adeboye to Tinubu: Wipe Out Terrorists , Sponsors in 90 Days or Sack Service Chiefs

Toyin Adebayo
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Pst Adeboye to Tinubu: Wipe Out Terrorists , Sponsors in 90 Days or Sack Service Chiefs

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action against terrorists and their sponsors, giving the nation’s service chiefs a 90-day ultimatum to end insecurity or resign.

Speaking during the monthly Holy Ghost Service at the Redemption City on Saturday, Adeboye said Nigerians can no longer afford to live in fear while innocent people continue to die at the hands of terrorists.

“The President must ensure that the terrorists and their sponsors are completely cleared out,” Pastor Adeboye declared. “Innocent people are dying daily; this is not the time for delay.”

The cleric also urged President Tinubu to explore diplomatic engagement with U.S. President Donald Trump, seeking 100 days to completely eliminate terrorist organisations operating within Nigeria.

Pastor Adeboye warned that if the United States were ever to attack Nigeria, global powers like China, Russia, and Britain would likely issue statements without taking any tangible action. He therefore advised the President to act swiftly, wisely, and diplomatically to secure the country.

Expressing concern over what he described as misinformation reaching the President, Adeboye said, “I almost spoke last week when I heard my in-law’s speech claiming that displaced people had returned to their villages. I almost said that the person who wrote that speech does not like him. Somebody wrote it, but the President read it. There are people around him who are not telling him the truth.”

While acknowledging that President Tinubu inherited Nigeria’s security challenges, Adeboye insisted that his administration must provide lasting solutions rather than excuses.

“This is not the time for apportioning blame,” he said. “The government should diplomatically appeal to President Trump to give Nigeria 100 days to solve the problem, while directing the service chiefs to clear the terrorists within three months.”

Pastor Adeboye expressed optimism that peace would soon return to Nigeria, urging citizens to remain prayerful and hopeful. “Let no one be afraid,” he said. “Nigeria will rise again.”

Tinubu Vows to Defeat Terrorism, Strengthen Global Ties Amid U.S. Designation

Toyin Adebayo
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Tinubu Vows to Defeat Terrorism, Strengthen Global Ties Amid U.S. Designation

ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to eradicate terrorism and deepen diplomatic engagements with international partners, even as Nigeria grapples with a recent U.S. designation labeling the country a “Country of Particular Concern.”

Addressing the Federal Executive Council (FEC) ahead of its closed-door session at the Aso Rock Villa — the council’s first meeting since July — Tinubu declared: “We are engaging the world diplomatically, and we assure all of you that we will defeat terrorism.”

The president’s remarks marked his first public response to the designation by U.S. President Donald Trump, which the Nigerian government has dismissed as a misrepresentation of its security efforts.

Tinubu emphasized ongoing dialogue with the international community to advance security, stability, and economic growth. “Despite political headwinds and fears, we will continue to engage with our partners,” he said.

He cited the oversubscription of Nigeria’s $2.3 billion Eurobond as evidence of global confidence in the country’s economy, adding: “The task ahead is immense, but we are resolved to move forward with unity and purpose.”

Reassuring citizens of national cohesion, Tinubu commended his cabinet for their commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda and urged sustained focus on delivering reforms.

Nwobodo Appeals to Wike, PDP Leadership to Reunite and Rescue ‘Nigeria’s Mother Party’

Toyin Adebayo
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Nwobodo Appeals to Wike, PDP Leadership to Reunite and Rescue ‘Nigeria’s Mother Party’

One of the founding fathers of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chief Jim Nwobodo, has called on the party’s leadership and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to set aside their differences and spearhead the rebuilding of the once-dominant political organization.

Addressing an emergency party meeting in Abuja on Friday, the elder statesman described the PDP as “the mother party” of Nigerian democracy and urged its current custodians to act decisively to prevent the labors of its founders from being in vain.

“The PDP is a family, and a party where every member has a sense of belonging,” Nwobodo stated. “My appeal, therefore, to all of you, and in particular the leadership of our party, is to ensure that the PDP remains the beacon of democracy in Nigeria.”

Drawing a historical parallel, he likened the PDP’s potential role to that of the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa and issued a direct plea for reconciliation, emphasizing that most politicians in rival parties were once PDP members.

A Call for a “Strong Reconciliation Committee”

Nwobodo revealed that he has been approached by numerous former members eager to return to the party fold. He urged the acting national chairman, the national secretary, and the Board of Trustees (BoT) to be magnanimous and proactively welcome them back.

“Reach out to aggrieved members who are willing to abide by the party’s constitution and ideology to come back to the family, where they belong,” he said. “I once again appeal to you to constitute a strong reconciliation committee to reach out to members.”

Direct Appeal to Wike to Lend His “Energy”

In a notable segment of his address, Nwobodo turned his attention directly to Minister Wike, who has been at the center of a protracted feud within the party. He praised the Minister’s transformative impact on the nation’s capital, which he witnessed upon a recent visit.

“I entered Abuja after two years of being in Enugu and I could not recognise Abuja. Abuja had changed,” Nwobodo remarked. “If you put that same effort into this party, PDP will be the party to beat.”

His comments underscore the high-stakes political calculus within the PDP, as it seeks to harness the influence of powerful but aggrieved figures like Wike.

Striking a note of sober realism, the founding father acknowledged that the path to revival would be challenging. “It will not be easy, but no good thing comes easy. Don’t be deterred and don’t be discouraged,” he advised the leadership.

He concluded with a call to preserve the party’s legacy, urging current leaders to ensure “that the labours of the founding fathers, most of whom are no longer with us, will not be in vain.”

Toyin Adebayo
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PDP’s New Board of Trustees Elects Leaders, Calls for Convention Postponement

By Toyin Adebayo, Abuja

The newly reconstituted Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in an attempt to stabilize the party has called for an immediate postponement of its proposed National Convention, citing the need for judicial prudence amidst ongoing legal battles.

The resolution was part of several critical decisions reached during the board’s inaugural emergency meeting held in Abuja on Friday, where Senator Mao Ohuabunwa and Hon. Isah Dansidi were elected as the new Chairman and Secretary, respectively.

In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the BoT asserted that proceeding with the convention would be premature while an appeal against the October 31 Federal High Court judgment—which paved the way for the board’s own reconstitution—remains pending.

“In view of the fact that the Federal High Court judgment has been appealed, prudence and respect for judicial processes demand that the proposed National Convention be postponed until the Court of Appeal delivers its decision,” the communiqué stated.

The board’s first major action signals its intent to position itself as the party’s moral and legal compass, directly intervening in a major calendar event to enforce constitutional order.

New Leadership Takes the Helm

The meeting also formalized a new leadership structure for the BoT. The communiqué clarified that the immediate past Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, and Secretary, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, were succeeded to preserve the board’s “neutrality, integrity, and moral authority,” having “publicly taken positions in the party’s internal crisis.”

In a move reflecting the party’s zoning tradition, Senator Ohuabunwa, from the South, and Hon. Dansidi, from the North, were unanimously elected to fill the vacant positions. The board expressed gratitude to the outgoing officers for their service.

A Firm Stance on Legal Supremacy

Reiterating its commitment to the rule of law, the BoT issued a stern warning to all party organs against acting in contempt of court. It emphatically declared that the Federal High Court judgment “remained superior and weightier in law” than any conflicting interim orders, a clear reference to a recent order from an Oyo State High Court.

“Any such action [in contempt of court] would render subsequent outcomes null and void,” the communiqué warned, directing full compliance with the Federal High Court’s ruling.

While supporting the goal of a “credible, transparent, and inclusive national convention,” the board conditioned it on strict adherence to the party’s constitution, electoral laws, and existing court pronouncements.

Pledging to Be the Party’s ‘Conscience’

Echoing the themes set forth by the Acting National Chairman last week, the newly inaugurated BoT pledged to act as the “conscience and stabilizing moral compass” of the PDP. It committed to actively mediating among stakeholders, promoting inclusivity, and preventing divisive tendencies.

“Genuine reconciliation and cooperation remain the bedrock of sustainable peace and collective advancement within the PDP,” the statement read, calling on all members to close ranks and uphold constitutionalism.

The communiqué was jointly signed by the new Chairman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, and Secretary, Hon. Isah Dansidi, formally marking the beginning of their tenure tasked with steering the party through its current crisis.

PDP Chairman Inaugurates New Board, Blames Predecessors for Party’s ‘Moral Decay’

Toyin Adebayo
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PDP Chairman Inaugurates New Board, Blames Predecessors for Party’s ‘Moral Decay’

The Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Abdulrahman Muhammad in an address marking a significant leadership overhaul, squarely blamed the party’s recent decline on the “compromised” moral authority and “unconstitutional” practices of its immediate past leadership.

Speaking on Friday at the inauguration of a newly reconstituted Board of Trustees (BoT) in Abuja, Muhammad described the event as the definitive start of “a new era of moral renewal and institutional discipline” for the opposition party.

The acting chairman detailed a period of deep internal crisis, citing the leadership of the former BoT led by Senator Adolphus Wabara, whose suspension by the Abia State chapter over alleged anti-party activities had, according to Muhammad, rendered the board “divided and ineffective.”

“The Board that was meant to be the moral compass of our party became divided and ineffective,” Muhammad stated, describing its loss of credibility as a “painful but necessary step” that forced the party to rebuild.

He extended his criticism to the then-suspended National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, accusing his leadership of choosing “convenience over the constitution and personal loyalty over the rule of law.” This approach, he alleged, involved ignoring court judgments and shielding members who violated party rules, which pushed the PDP to a “point of deep internal disillusionment.”

Muhammad framed a recent Federal High Court judgment—which facilitated the BoT’s reconstitution—not as an attack on the party, but as a judicial intervention to save it.

“The court judgment was not an assault on the PDP; it was a reminder that no institution is greater than the law,” he said. “It was a call to return to our roots.”

He praised party members who sought legal redress, characterizing their actions as driven by “conscience” and a desire to “redeem” and “heal” the party.

The newly inaugurated BoT was presented as the cornerstone of the PDP’s revival. Muhammad charged its members with a “sacred trust,” urging them to “speak truth to power” and act as the “conscience and compass of the party.”

Reflecting on the party’s historical missteps, the acting chairman traced the root of its current problems to the abandonment of its zoning principle ahead of the 2015 elections. “It began when we allowed ambition to override equity,” he stated, acknowledging that the “consequences of those decisions still haunt us today.”

Looking forward, Muhammad vowed that the new leadership is committed to transparency, discipline, and strict adherence to the party’s constitution.

“Under this new leadership, the PDP will never again be held hostage by impunity, manipulation, or disregard for its own constitution,” he declared. “We must reform or risk irrelevance.”

In closing Muhammad appealed for unity, he called on members to rise above personal ambitions, framing the moment as a critical juncture to pull the party back from the brink and restore its foundational values.

Protesting Contractors Gridlock National Assembly as Reps Hold Closed-Door Session

Toyin Adebayo
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Protesting Contractors Gridlock National Assembly as Reps Hold Closed-Door Session

ABUJA – For the second consecutive day, contractors claiming unpaid dues for work done for the National Assembly barricaded the complex’s main entrance on Wednesday, causing significant disruption and prompting the House of Representatives to convene an extended closed-door session to address the escalating situation.

The protest prevented lawmakers, staff, and visitors from accessing the building for hours, creating a major gridlock in the Three Arms Zone and stranding many outside the gates.

The House, which resumed plenary amidst the chaos, immediately moved into a private executive session to deliberate on the matter. The session, which began in the main chamber, lasted approximately two hours before lawmakers relocated to continue their discussions behind closed doors in Room 028, underscoring the sensitivity of the talks.

While the specific details of the deliberations were not disclosed, it is widely believed that resolving the standoff with the aggrieved contractors was a primary focus. The contractors had on Tuesday staged an initial protest, barricading the entrance and demanding payment for projects they had executed for the legislative body.

The continued demonstration highlights mounting tensions over public sector debt and its impact on government operations. Despite earlier assurances from the National Assembly that their grievances would be addressed, the contractors returned Wednesday, signaling a breakdown in negotiations and intensifying pressure on the legislature.

The House is expected to resume its public legislative agenda following the conclusion of the executive session. However, the protest has cast a spotlight on the administration of the National Assembly and its financial obligations to service providers.

Nigeria’s Non-Interest Capital Market Hits N1.6 Trillion, Says SEC Chief

Ola Akinola
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Nigeria’s Non-Interest Capital Market Hits N1.6 Trillion, Says SEC Chief

ABUJA – Nigeria’s non-interest capital market has grown to a valuation of over N1.6 trillion, the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, announced on Tuesday.

The disclosure was made at the 7th African International Conference on Islamic Finance (AICIF 2025) in Lagos, where Dr. Agama highlighted the sector’s critical role in advancing financial inclusion and funding national infrastructure.

He attributed the market’s “remarkable growth” to a supportive regulatory environment, specifically citing the reforms ushered in by the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025.

“This is clear evidence that when there is an enabling regulatory environment, the market responds with vigour,” Dr. Agama stated.

A significant driver of this growth has been the federal government’s sovereign Sukuk programme. The SEC DG revealed that the programme has raised over N1.4 trillion through seven issuances since its inception in 2017. These funds have been directly channeled into the construction and rehabilitation of 124 critical roads, spanning more than 5,820 kilometres across the nation.

In a move to attract international ethical capital, Dr. Agama also confirmed the recent approval of a $500 million international Sukuk, marking the next phase in Nigeria’s infrastructure financing strategy.

Continental Growth and Challenges

The conference also served as a platform to discuss the broader African landscape. While Dr. Agama pointed to rapid growth in countries like Egypt, Kenya, and Ghana as signs of a continental shift, other speakers cautioned that barriers remain.

The Conference Chair, Ms. Ummahani Ahmad Amin, noted that despite global Islamic financial assets reaching $3.88 trillion in 2024, Africa’s share is still marginal.

“To enable Sukuk and other Islamic financial instruments serve as effective drivers of financial intermediation, we must first address the barriers that continue to constrain their growth,” Amin said, citing underdeveloped market infrastructure and limited liquidity.

She also highlighted the dual role of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which can automate compliance but must be guided by strong ethical guardrails.

Looking Ahead

Dr. Agama confirmed that resolutions from AICIF 2025 will directly inform the development of the Second Nigerian Capital Market Masterplan (2026–2035), as the current plan concludes this year.

In line with the conference’s theme of inclusive prosperity, a startup pitch competition was held. ZannyTecture Recycling Company Limited won the Social Impact category for its work creating eco-friendly products from waste, while BetaLife Health topped the Technology category with an AI-driven blood supply platform.

The conference also saw the launch of The Metropolitan Waqf, a new initiative aimed at funding education for marginalized communities in conflict-affected areas of Nigeria.

Police Dismantle Illegal Gun Factory, Sea Pirates’ Hideout in Akwa Ibom

Ola Akinola
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Police Dismantle Illegal Gun Factory, Sea Pirates’ Hideout in Akwa Ibom

UYO – The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has announced a major breakthrough in its fight against crime, uncovering an illegal gun manufacturing facility and disrupting a sea piracy network in simultaneous operations.

The successes were disclosed by the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Baba Mohammed Azare, during a press briefing at the Command Headquarters in Uyo on Tuesday.

In a targeted raid on Ekit Itam Village in Itu Local Government Area, police operatives busted a clandestine workshop fabricating firearms. Two suspects, Aniekan Aniedi, 39, and Ubong Udofia, 35, were arrested at the scene.

Exhibits recovered from the factory included three finished locally made pistols, five metal pipes, two iron rods, copper wire, flat metal plates intended for gun butts, a welding machine, and various electric tools. CP Azare assured the public that an investigation is underway to “identify and apprehend their criminal network of armed robbers and cultists.”

In a separate marine operation on November 3rd, conducted in collaboration with a local security group, Marine Hunters, police intercepted and arrested a 27-year-old suspected militant, Samuel Geofrey from Bayelsa State.

“Geofrey confessed to being an active militant involved in sea piracy and kidnapping,” CP Azare stated. “He disclosed that his rifle was in the custody of one Kingdom Bane, the Village Head of Ine Eyoabasi Fishing Village.”

A subsequent raid on the village head’s residence led to his flight, but a search yielded a trove of items believed to be stolen from sea travelers. Recovered goods included multiple marine engines, powerheads, gearboxes, generators, and a deep freezer. The suspect remains in custody as manhunts for the fugitive village head and the rifle continue.

The police also paraded suspects involved in other criminal activities. Umar Bello was arrested with 31 stolen mobile phones, while others, including Maxwell Asuquo and Etin Akpan, were apprehended for handling stolen tricycles and vehicle parts.

In a crackdown on crimes disguised as cultural practices, one Solomon Edem from Abak was arrested for using a masquerade costume to rob victims. Two cult leaders from Ekpenyong Ikot Isang were also charged for illegal assembly and extortion.

“The era of hiding criminality behind cultural practices is over,” CP Azare declared, signaling a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of crime in the state.

Nigeria, EU, and UNICEF Forge €6.3 Million Pact to Boost Local Drug Production

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Nigeria, EU, and UNICEF Forge €6.3 Million Pact to Boost Local Drug Production

ABUJA – In a significant move to bolster Nigeria’s healthcare self-sufficiency, the Federal Government has entered a €6.3 million partnership with the European Union and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to stimulate the local manufacturing of essential medicines, vaccines, and nutrition products.

The 24-month initiative, signed Tuesday at the Nigeria-EU Health Investment Forum, aims to strengthen the nation’s pharmaceutical sector, secure supply chains, and reduce a longstanding dependency on imported health commodities. The agreement signals a strategic shift from traditional aid toward long-term investment in Nigeria’s industrial capacity.

The project, titled “Enabling Local Manufacturing of Health, Immunisation and Nutrition Commodities in Nigeria” (ELM-N), is funded by a €5.5 million contribution from the EU and an additional €800,000 from Spain.

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, hailed the partnership as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s evolving relationship with the EU. “This partnership is expanding opportunities for technology transfer, facility financing, and local production,” Bagudu stated, adding that it aligns with the government’s goal to position Nigeria as a regional hub for health innovation and research.

The EU’s Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Gautier Mignot, representing Team Europe, emphasized the program’s strategic nature. “More than anything, we want to support the paradigm shift taking place in Nigeria and West Africa, moving from aid to peer-to-peer collaboration,” Mignot explained. The initiative falls under the EU’s broader Global Gateway strategy, which provides support to local manufacturers and governments to build sustainable production capacity.

Stakeholders highlighted the project’s potential impact on public health outcomes. The United Nations Resident Coordinator, represented by UNICEF’s Wafaa Abdelate, connected the initiative to urgent national needs, citing over two million “zero-dose” children and high maternal mortality rates.

“This partnership must translate into access to affordable, timely, and safe vaccines, medicines, and nutrition products,” Abdelate said.

The Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Félix Costales Artieda, noted the agreement would also advance regional health security and equitable access to essential products across West Africa.

By strengthening local production and regulatory frameworks, the ELM-N project is seen as a critical step toward a more resilient health system for Nigeria and a reduction of its vulnerability to global supply chain disruptions.

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