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ECOWAS Opens Applications for 2027 Young Professionals Programme

By
Akeem Adebayo
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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has opened applications for its 2027 Young Professional Immersion Programme (YPIP), offering a fully funded one-year opportunity for young professionals across the region.

Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the call on Wednesday, urging qualified young Nigerians to apply for the programme, which provides hands-on experience within ECOWAS institutions while contributing to regional integration efforts.

According to the ministry, the initiative is designed to equip participants with practical knowledge and technical skills under the mentorship of experienced professionals.

“The programme is designed to provide dynamic young citizens of ECOWAS Member States with practical experience within regional institutions,” the ministry said.

Applicants must be 32 years of age or younger and hold a degree in a relevant field from a recognised institution.

The application window opened on July 31 and will close on August 31, 2026, with submissions to be made at the programme’s official portal. https://youngprofessional.ecowas.int/en/

The ministry encouraged eligible candidates to take advantage of the opportunity to enhance their career prospects while contributing to the development of the ECOWAS region.

The YPIP is part of ECOWAS’ broader strategy to build capacity among young professionals and strengthen institutional effectiveness across member states.

Abuja Open for Business, Wike Warns Land Speculators

By
Toyin Adebayo
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Abuja – Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has declared that Abuja is fully open for business, assuring genuine investors of a conducive environment while warning land grabbers, speculators and fraudulent developers that the administration will no longer tolerate activities capable of undermining the Abuja Master Plan.

Speaking at the opening of the Abuja Business and Investment Expo (ABIE) 3.0 in Abuja, Wike said the FCT Administration had embarked on sweeping reforms to make the nation’s capital Nigeria’s most attractive destination for investment.

Represented by the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, the minister said the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu had transformed Abuja into a thriving investment hub through massive investments in roads, transportation, water supply, healthcare, education and urban renewal.

According to him, the administration has completed abandoned projects, opened up new development corridors and extended critical infrastructure to satellite towns and Area Councils to stimulate economic growth.

Wike noted that the FCT’s fourth-place ranking in the 2025 Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) Subnational Ease of Doing Business assessment, with a 61 per cent score, reflects the administration’s commitment to improving governance and making business easier.

He disclosed that reforms in land administration, digital governance, revenue collection and institutional accountability were designed to eliminate bottlenecks, improve transparency and boost investors’ confidence.

The minister, however, warned that anyone involved in fraudulent land allocations, multiple ownership claims or illegal developments would face the full weight of the law.

“Ease of doing business does not mean the absence of regulation. We will support and protect genuine investors, but we will not protect land speculators, fraudulent developers or businesses that disregard the law,” he said.

He identified real estate, transportation, agriculture, tourism, healthcare, education, renewable energy, technology, waste management and the creative industry as sectors offering huge investment opportunities, urging investors to take advantage of emerging districts and satellite towns.

Earlier, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL), Amb. Maureen Tamuno, described the Expo as a strategic platform for attracting investments and forging partnerships that would unlock Abuja’s enormous economic potential.

She said the three-day event would feature exhibitions, investment forums, networking sessions and policy dialogues aimed at driving sustainable economic growth in the FCT and Nigeria.

 

Ooni Donates ₦100m, Hilux to Igboho’s Security Network

By
Gladys Phillip
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The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), has donated ₦100 million and a brand-new Toyota Hilux vehicle to the Iru Ekun Security Network, a community-based outfit founded by Yoruba Nation advocate, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho.

The donation was announced on August 4, 2026, during a courtesy visit by Igboho and members of the network to the Ooni’s Palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State, according to a statement issued by the palace.

The monarch pledged the sum in instalments, with an initial ₦10 million released immediately, while the Hilux vehicle is to support the group’s field operations.

Describing the initiative as timely, the Ooni said the security network would complement the efforts of formal security agencies in tackling kidnapping, banditry, and other crimes in the South-West.

“There is power in Yorubaland. Anyone who says there isn’t is deceiving himself or herself,” the monarch said. “We will all stand by and support you. I now want to pledge ₦100 million to your outfit.”

He called on traditional rulers, business leaders, and other stakeholders to support the initiative, stressing that security remains critical to peace, unity, and development.

The Iru Ekun Security Network, launched in late July 2026, is designed to work alongside the police, military, and other agencies to strengthen community-level security across affected areas.

Responding, Igboho thanked the Ooni for the support, describing him as a unifying figure for the Yoruba people and pledging that the network would collaborate with relevant authorities to improve security.

He also disclosed plans to convene a security summit of traditional rulers across Yorubaland, potentially to be hosted at the Ooni’s Palace.

The development signals growing traditional and community-based efforts to address security challenges in parts of the South-West.

Osun APC Accuses Adeleke of Desperation, Defends Tinubu

By
Akeem Adebayo
-

The Osun State All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship Campaign Council has accused Governor Ademola Adeleke of making “inflammatory and unfounded allegations” against President Bola Tinubu, describing the remarks as a sign of desperation ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the Director-General of the Campaign Council, Hon. Oluwole Oke, condemned comments allegedly made by the governor during a campaign event, where he warned of a possible repeat of the 1983 political crisis if he loses the election.

The council described the remarks as “reckless and irresponsible,” insisting that President Tinubu remains committed to constitutional governance and the rule of law.

“The claims are clearly intended to mislead the public and tarnish the image of the President,” the statement said.

The APC also rejected allegations that the Federal Government was withholding allocations meant for Osun’s 30 local government areas, maintaining that the legally recognised local government administration continues to receive statutory allocations.

According to the council, the Adeleke administration is attempting to divert attention from its record in office by portraying itself as a victim of political intimidation.

The statement further alleged that more than 30 APC members and supporters had been killed since 2022 in attacks linked to political violence, though it did not provide evidence to substantiate the claim.

It also accused the state government of releasing suspected criminals who were allegedly used to target opposition members.

On financial management, the APC alleged that the Adeleke administration diverted a ₦2 billion Federal Government grant released in 2023 for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, mismanaged ₦17 billion in ecological funds received in 2024 and 2025, and failed to account for over ₦1 trillion in state revenue. I’ll l

The council said the governor would be required to account for the management of public funds in line with the law.

It urged Adeleke to avoid statements capable of heightening political tension and to accept the outcome of the election peacefully if defeated.

The APC expressed confidence that its governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), would emerge victorious, stating that voters in Osun are ready to support what it described as responsible and transparent leadership.

 

Court Dismisses NDC Suit Challenging 2026 Electoral Act

By
Akeem Adebayo
-

A Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday dismissed a suit filed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) challenging key provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, ruling that the law does not conflict with the 1999 Constitution.

Delivering judgment, Justice Muhammed Umar held that the suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/635/2025, lacked merit and affirmed that the disputed provisions “complement, rather than conflict with” constitutional requirements on qualification and disqualification of candidates.

The NDC had instituted the case against the Attorney General of the Federation, the Clerk of the National Assembly, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), seeking declarations that Sections 138 and 77(5) of the Electoral Act were unconstitutional.

The party also urged the court to rule that issues concerning the qualification of candidates could still be raised after elections.

However, Justice Umar upheld preliminary objections challenging the competence of the suit, stating that the plaintiff was merely asking the court to interpret existing laws.

“The plaintiff is invoking the interpretative jurisdiction of this honourable court in respect of the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 on the one hand and the 1999 Constitution on the other hand,” the judge said.

He further ruled that attaching INEC’s election timetable to the suit did not make it a pre-election matter.

“The fact that the defendant’s timetable is attached cannot make the case within the contemplation of Section 285… there is no deposition… that raises questions as to the timetable,” he held.

On procedural grounds, the court found that the NDC failed to serve a mandatory pre-action notice on the Clerk of the National Assembly, rendering that aspect of the suit incompetent and leading to it being struck out against the second defendant.

On the substantive issues, Justice Umar rejected the NDC’s argument that Section 138 of the Electoral Act conflicts with constitutional provisions.

“The provision of Section 138 of the Electoral Act 2026 complements the provision of the Constitution, but is not in conflict with it. The contention of the plaintiff… is of no merit,” he ruled.

He clarified that while the Constitution outlines qualifications and disqualifications for elective offices, the Electoral Act provides procedures and timelines for challenging outcomes of party primaries.

“Any aggrieved party… must do so at the pre-election level,” the judge added.

Justice Umar also declined to invalidate Section 77(5), noting that the Court of Appeal had already settled the matter, and lower courts are bound by such precedents.

The ruling is expected to shape legal interpretations ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly on the timing and scope of disputes over candidate eligibility.

Nigeria’s Envoy Meets Ivorian Parliament Chief to Deepen Ties

By
Akeem Adebayo
-

Nigeria’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Ezenwa Nwaobiala, on August 3, 2026, met with the President of the Ivorian National Assembly, Patrick Achi, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between both countries.

The meeting, held in Abidjan, forms part of Ambassador Nwaobiala’s ongoing familiarisation visits to key institutions and senior officials of the host government following his assumption of office.

According to the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the engagement is aimed at deepening cooperation with strategic Ivorian institutions and identifying new areas of collaboration.

The ministry noted that such high-level interactions are critical to consolidating the longstanding cordial relations between Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, particularly in trade, security, and regional stability within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Ambassador Nwaobiala, who presented his Letters of Credence to President Alassane Ouattara on June 18, 2026, had reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ties with Côte d’Ivoire in areas of economic development and regional integration.

Patrick Achi, a former Prime Minister and a seasoned statesman, has served as President of the National Assembly since January 17, 2026, bringing decades of governance experience to the role.

Diplomatic sources say the meeting highlights the growing importance of parliamentary diplomacy in advancing bilateral engagement and fostering mutual economic interests between both nations.

The Nigerian government also underscored the significance of the visit as part of broader efforts to reinforce cooperation and build stronger institutional partnerships with Côte d’Ivoire.

Nigeria High Commissioner Leads Push for Trade Ties at Freetown Fair

By
Akeem Adebayo
-

Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, Ambassador Ayo Luther-Ogbomode, led efforts to strengthen bilateral trade relations as she attended the opening of the maiden Nigeria Chamber of Commerce Trade Fair in Freetown on July 30, 2026.

The event, declared open by Sierra Leone’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Hon. Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, brought together policymakers, investors, and business leaders to advance commercial cooperation between both countries.

Ambassador Luther-Ogbomode’s participation highlights Nigeria’s commitment to economic diplomacy and expanding trade partnerships within the West African sub-region.

The trade fair is designed to showcase Nigerian products and services, while providing a platform for businesses from Nigeria and Sierra Leone to explore partnerships and investment opportunities.

Officials at the event emphasised that strengthening private sector collaboration remains critical to driving sustainable economic growth and enhancing regional integration.

Diplomatic sources noted that the Nigerian High Commission in Freetown continues to support initiatives that promote trade, investment, and closer economic ties between the two nations.

The maiden fair is expected to boost cross-border commerce, create new business linkages, and reinforce the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Sierra Leone.

Delta 2027: Group Urges Voters to Reject Omo-Agege Over Flyover Criticism

By
Gladys Phillip
-

A political support group in Delta State has called on voters in Delta Central Senatorial District to reject former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, in the 2027 elections, following his reported criticism of the Otovwodo and Uvwie flyovers.

Chairman of the Global Initiative Support Group for Sheriff 2027, Chief Josiah Ntekume, made the call while reacting to a statement issued by Omo-Agege’s media team, describing the former lawmaker’s position as “disappointing” and out of touch with the developmental needs of the district.

Ntekume said the condemnation of the flyover projects suggests that Omo-Agege does not appreciate or align with the aspirations of the people he seeks to represent in the Senate.

“It is astonishing that Senator Omo-Agege wants the votes of the people of Delta Central while at the same time ridiculing some of the biggest and very important infrastructure projects located in their homeland,” Ntekume said.

He argued that the Otovwodo and Uvwie flyovers were designed to address long-standing traffic congestion, improve road safety, and boost economic activities in Effurun, Ughelli, and surrounding areas.

According to him, the projects form part of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s broader infrastructure drive under the MORE Agenda, which includes investments in roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare facilities across Delta State.

Ntekume further alleged that Omo-Agege’s comments misrepresented recent remarks by President Bola Tinubu on infrastructure priorities, insisting that the President neither singled out Delta State nor criticised the flyover projects.

“The attempt to portray these projects as wasteful is unfortunate and disconnected from the daily realities of motorists, traders and residents who now enjoy smoother movement through previously congested routes,” he said.

He maintained that the state government has not neglected other critical sectors, noting that investments have also been made in healthcare, education, agriculture, security, and youth empowerment.

Ntekume described criticisms of the projects as “politically motivated distortions,” adding that the benefits of the flyovers are evident in reduced travel time and improved commercial activity.

“If Senator Omo-Agege truly believes that the Otovwodo and Uvwie flyovers are misplaced priorities, then he has no moral justification to seek the mandate of the same people who are daily beneficiaries of those projects,” he said.

He urged voters in Delta Central to take note of Omo-Agege’s stance ahead of the 2027 elections, stressing that the district needs representation that supports and attracts development.

Atiku Questions ₦1.08tn Budget Allocation to Enugu College

By
Gladys Phillip
-

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has raised concerns over alleged irregularities in the 2026 Appropriation Act, questioning the reported ₦1.08 trillion allocation to the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River, Enugu State.

Atiku’s concerns follow an independent analysis of the 2026 budget by civic technology platform Tracka, which reportedly revealed that the college was assigned 2,791 capital projects spread across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

In a statement issued Tuesday in Abuja by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the findings as troubling and indicative of deeper transparency and accountability issues in the implementation of the national budget under the President Bola Tinubu administration.

He commended Tracka for what he called exposing “a major distortion” in the budget framework, arguing that the reported allocation contradicts government claims of fiscal prudence.

According to Atiku, it is difficult to justify assigning thousands of nationwide capital projects to an institution primarily established for cooperative education.

The projects, he noted, reportedly include roads, drainage systems, solar streetlights, markets, football pitches, dialysis centres, ambulances, water schemes, recycling plants and empowerment programmes—functions that appear to fall outside the college’s statutory mandate.

Atiku questioned the legal and administrative basis for the arrangement, asking: “Who authorised the college to serve as an implementing agency for such a vast number of projects? Who nominated and approved these projects, and which institutions are responsible for monitoring and accountability?”

He argued that the development undermines the administration’s repeated assurances of fiscal discipline, particularly at a time when Nigerians are grappling with higher taxes, the removal of fuel subsidies and rising public debt.

“A government that says there is no money, removes fuel subsidy, raises taxes, accumulates unprecedented debt and demands endless sacrifices from Nigerians cannot simultaneously operate a budget that appears designed to hide public spending behind institutions with neither the statutory mandate nor the institutional capacity to execute projects of this magnitude,” Atiku said.

The former vice president maintained that if the reported figures are accurate, the allocation raises fundamental questions about accountability in public financial management and warrants urgent public scrutiny.

The Federal Government has yet to respond to the claims at the time of filing this report.

Young Professionals Must Lead Energy Innovation — NNPC EVP

By
Akeem Adebayo
-

The Executive Vice President, Business Services, NNPC Limited, Sophia Mbakwe, has charged young professionals to take the lead in driving innovation and competitiveness in Nigeria’s energy sector amid rapid global transformation.

Mbakwe made the call on Monday in Lagos while delivering the keynote address at the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Young Professionals Workshop during the Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE) 2026.

Speaking on the theme, “Collaborative Growth in the Energy Sector: How Young Professionals Can Drive Innovation and Competitiveness,” she defined innovation as “the courage to see a problem clearly, the discipline to think through solutions, and the humility to collaborate in developing solutions that become useful.”

She noted that evolving conversations around energy transition, gas development, clean energy, greenhouse gas emissions, financing, artificial intelligence and digital technologies are reshaping the global energy landscape.

According to her, young professionals must remain adaptive and forward-thinking to remain relevant in the industry.

Mbakwe urged participants to leverage technology, strengthen local capacity and support initiatives that attract investment into the sector.

She also highlighted the need to optimise Nigeria’s gas resources, boost oil production, reduce emissions and expand energy access and security across Africa.

The NNPC executive emphasised that collaboration and enterprise-driven thinking will be critical in addressing the complex challenges facing the energy industry.

The SPE NAICE conference remains one of the leading platforms for industry stakeholders to discuss trends, share knowledge and explore solutions for sustainable energy development.

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