Author: John Ojoagbene

Nigeria experienced a 3.46% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth in the fourth quarter of 2023, totalling N21.77 trillion in finished goods and services produced within the country. This growth was slightly lower than the previous year (3.52%) but higher than the third quarter of 2023 (2.54%). Despite this apparent economic growth, Nigerians have not yet felt the positive effects on their well-being, as they continue to face economic hardships caused by high inflation and living costs. In January, Nigeria recorded a record-high inflation rate of 29.90%, with food inflation at 35.42%, significantly reducing the purchasing power of its citizens. This…

Dr. Ifedayo Morayo Adetifa has officially handed over the leadership of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) to Dr. Olajide Idris after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s announcement. Dr. Adetifa’s tenure saw significant advancements in fulfilling the mandate of preventing, detecting, and responding to public health events, especially during challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Olajide Idris, with over 30 years of experience in medical practice, Healthcare Systems Management, Consulting, Pharmaceuticals, and Research, is set to lead as the new Director General. During his time as Permanent Secretary and Commissioner of Health in Lagos State, Dr. Idris oversaw…

The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) has achieved significant success in ongoing clearance operations within the Lake Chad basin against Boko Haram terrorists. Chief of Military Public Information, Lt-Col Abubakar Abdullahi, reported that the operations led to the killing of numerous Boko Haram members, with many surrendering. From February 10 to 20, all four MNJTF sectors recorded successful engagements. Notable victories included the seizure of 92 ammunition belts in Cameroon, the surrender of Boko Haram members in Chad and Nigeria, and the recovery of arms and ammunition from repentant insurgents. Additionally, MNJTF troops in Bagasola, Chad, inflicted casualties on Boko…

Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, praises Erling Haaland, stating he won’t criticize the striker as Haaland proves his critics wrong on the field. Haaland scored the only goal in City’s 1-0 win against Brentford after a goalless game against Chelsea. Guardiola points out Haaland’s return to scoring form after a tough period, including a challenging week and the loss of his grandmother. Guardiola emphasizes the importance of supporting and encouraging Haaland, highlighting his resilience and ability to deliver results when needed. Haaland has shown his strength and determination, scoring goals despite setbacks.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is aiming to combat illegal exportation of grains to other African countries to safeguard food security. The Zonal Coordinator, Ify Ogbudu, assured that 42,000 metric tons of grains approved by the government will be distributed as intended. The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, praised the NCS for upholding economic integrity despite challenges and emphasized the need for enlightenment and community engagement to prevent breaches. He encouraged customs officers to exhibit compassion towards local traders and supported legitimate trade facilitation, commending efforts to reduce disputes and assist local traders. This signifies a joint commitment…

Osita Okechukwu, a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), is calling for the removal of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma as chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) due to his handling of the Edo State Gubernatorial Primary. Okechukwu claims that Uzodimma’s mismanagement led to the emergence of three candidates, reflecting poorly on the party. He questions Uzodimma’s competence and argues that his actions jeopardize the integrity of the party. Okechukwu poses important questions, such as why Uzodimma, who failed in a similar role before, was entrusted with another important assignment. He criticizes Uzodimma for overstepping his authority…

Former CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, is threatening to sue Senate President Godswill Akpabio for defamation. Emefiele’s legal team is demanding an apology and ₦25 billion in damages for statements by Akpabio that were deemed false and disparaging. Akpabio’s comments suggested that Nigeria’s economic hardship was due to Emefiele’s policies, portraying him as a serial offender facing multiple charges. Emefiele’s lawyers accused Akpabio of undermining the court’s integrity by discussing a case that was in progress. They highlighted that Emefiele’s actions were authorized by the President and Federal Executive Council, of which Akpabio was a member. The letter emphasized the need…

The upcoming Premier League weekend features exciting matchups including Brentford vs Liverpool, Burnley vs Arsenal, Tottenham vs Wolves, and Luton vs Manchester United. Brentford, known for their resilience, will host title contenders Liverpool at the Brentford Community Stadium. Despite Liverpool being favoured, Brentford’s home record and tenacity could challenge Jurgen Klopp’s side. Arsenal faces a tough challenge at Turf Moor against Burnley, known for their physicality. Arsenal’s recent positive form under Mikel Arteta might be tested by Burnley’s defensive solidity, potentially leading to an upset for either team. Tottenham will face Wolves at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Tottenham aims to solidify…

Minister of Works, David Umahi has called a meeting with prominent cement manufacturers in Nigeria, including Dangote Plc, BUA Plc, and Lafarge, to discuss the soaring cost of cement. Despite high demand from road and housing contractors, Umahi expressed concern over the significant increase in the product’s price. The meeting is scheduled for February 19, 2024, at the Ministry’s Conference Hall in Abuja. The minister highlighted the wide gap between ex-factory and market prices, suggesting a need for closer examination. Umahi aims to address challenges faced by manufacturers and seek a unified resolution to the growing discrepancies. This initiative is…

The debate in Nigeria about the best form of democratic government has been ongoing since 1999, with arguments for both the American-style presidential system and a return to the parliamentary system inherited from Britain in 1960. Advocates of the parliamentary system argue that it would reduce wastage in governance and enhance accountability, proposing a unicameral legislature where the Prime Minister is selected from among legislators, reducing the cost of governance significantly. On the other hand, supporters of the presidential system, which was introduced in 1979, emphasize checks and balances to prevent the concentration of power in any one branch of…