EFCC Summons 146 Christian Pilgrim Commission Officials Over Alleged Fraud

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January 20, 2025

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an investigation into the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) over alleged misappropriation of public funds.

A reliable source within the EFCC disclosed that 146 NCPC staff members, including both active and retired personnel, have been summoned for questioning at the anti-graft agency’s headquarters in Abuja.

The source stated, “We are currently investigating the NCPC. About 146 staff members have been invited for questioning and have been assigned specific dates to report at the EFCC headquarters from Monday through Friday.”

An internal memo dated January 16, confirmed the invitations. Signed by Assistant Director APD, Chukwura Frank, on behalf of the Executive Secretary, the memo, titled “Re: Invitation by EFCC on Investigation of Misappropriation of Public Funds,” directed the invited officials to attend the interviews with their international passports.

The memo partly read:
“I am directed to inform you that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has invited 146 officers of the Commission (both serving and retired) for an interview. The officers listed are to report to the EFCC on the dates indicated against their names for an interview with the Head of Special Duty Committee 3 at EFCC Headquarters, Jabi, Abuja, by 10:00 a.m. prompt. This is for your information and strict compliance, please.”

The schedule includes key personnel such as the Assistant Chief Accountant, Assistant Chief Executive (Statistician), and other senior officers from departments including Accounts, Administration, Planning, and Procurement.

An anonymous source from within the NCPC downplayed the investigation, calling it a routine check into the commission’s records. “This is a normal exercise to review our books. There’s nothing alarming about it,” the individual stated.

Efforts to reach the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, and the NCPC spokesperson, Celestine Ogugua, were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.

Keir Starmer Congratulates Donald Trump Ahead of Inauguration

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 20, 2025

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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has extended his congratulations to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump ahead of his inauguration, affirming that the “special relationship” between the two nations “will thrive for years to come.”

Trump is set to be sworn in for a second term as President of the United States on Monday, marking eight years since his initial inauguration.

In his statement, Starmer highlighted the “deep bond of friendship” between the United States and the United Kingdom and pledged to work closely with the U.S. to advance mutual interests and deliver positive outcomes for citizens on both sides of the Atlantic.

Addressing supporters on the eve of the inauguration, Trump declared that his movement had “built a new American majority that will ensure success for generations.”

Several UK politicians, including Nigel Farage, have traveled to Washington, D.C., for the ceremonies. However, there is growing speculation about the potential global economic impact of Trump’s second term, particularly if he moves forward with proposed tariffs.

Reflecting on the enduring UK-US partnership, Starmer said on Sunday, “For centuries, our two nations have shared a relationship rooted in collaboration, cooperation, and a steadfast commitment to mutual security and prosperity. Together, we have stood against tyranny and worked for global peace and stability.”

Starmer recalled his September meeting with Trump at Trump Tower in New York, describing it as a moment that underscored the importance of personal relationships in international diplomacy.

“Since our first meeting, President Trump and I have discussed the importance of strengthening and investing in the transatlantic relationship. We are committed to taking our historic alliance to greater heights by addressing shared global challenges and seizing new opportunities for growth,” Starmer said.

He concluded with optimism: “The special relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States will continue to flourish, ensuring peace, prosperity, and security for our nations in the years ahead.”

BVN Compulsory for RSA Holders From Feb – PenCom

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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January 20, 2025

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The National Pension Commission has mandated the provision of Bank Verification Numbers for all Retirement Savings Account registration and data recapture processes effective February 1.

A circular signed by the PenCom Head, Surveillance Department, A.M. Saleem, stated that the move would enhance the security and integrity of the pension industry database.

The circular reads, “The National Pension Commission hereby directs that all pension fund administrators must require the mandatory provision of the Bank Verification Number from individuals/RSA holders in processing their requests for RSA registration or data recapture, as applicable.

“Key Requirements: PFAs must ensure that the BVN provided for RSA Registration and Data Recapture is 11 digits. BVN must be provided for all new RSA registrations. PFAs must indicate that the BVN field on their RSA registration forms is mandatory. PFAs must obtain the BVN of RSA holders at the point of their data recapture. Consequently, PFAs must indicate the BVN field on their Data Recapture Forms is mandatory.”

It added that on the Enhanced Contributor Registration System, PFAs will be allowed to update the BVN records of existing RSA holders already on the ECRS.

Also, PenCom has issued fresh guidelines to address PFA complaints regarding the challenges of obtaining letters of employment from new employees.

Amending Section 4.1.2 of the Revised Guideline on RSA Registration of 2024, the regulators now allow registration of formal sector employees with staff identity cards in the absence of their Letter of Employment, Letter of First Appointment, or Attestation Letter.

How Manchester United Fell To Brighton

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 20, 2025

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On January 19, 2025, Manchester United faced Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford, suffering a 3-1 defeat. The match began with a tribute to United legend Denis Law, who had recently passed away.

Key Moments From The Match:

Moments From Manchester United vs Brighton

5th Minute: Brighton took an early lead when Kaoru Mitoma delivered a pass across the goal, allowing Yankuba Minteh to score from close range.
23rd Minute: Manchester United equalized through a penalty. Joshua Zirkzee was fouled in the box by Carlos Baleba, and Bruno Fernandes converted the spot-kick, sending goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen the wrong way.
60th Minute: Brighton regained the lead. Yankuba Minteh’s in-swinging cross found Kaoru Mitoma at the far post, who stretched to score ahead of United defender Noussair Mazraoui.
76th Minute: A mistake by United goalkeeper André Onana proved costly. He failed to secure a low cross from Yasin Ayari, spilling the ball to Georginio Rutter, who capitalized to extend Brighton’s lead.

This defeat marked Manchester United’s third consecutive home loss to Brighton and their tenth league defeat of the season, leaving them 13th in the league with 26 points. Brighton moved up to 9th place with 34 points.

Other Premier League Matches on January 19, 2025:

Everton 3-2 Tottenham Hotspur: At Goodison Park, Everton secured a 3-2 victory over Tottenham. Everton dominated the first half with goals from Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Iliman Ndiaye, along with an own goal by Archi Gray, leading 3-0 at halftime. Tottenham attempted a comeback with goals from Dejan Kulusevski and Richarlison, but Everton held on for the win.

Nottingham Forest 3-2 Southampton: Nottingham Forest hosted Southampton and emerged with a 3-2 victory. Forest took a commanding 3-0 lead by halftime with goals from Elliot Anderson, Callum Hudson-Odoi, and Chris Wood. Southampton mounted a comeback in the second half, scoring twice through Jan Bednarek and Paul Onuachu, but Forest managed to secure all three points.

These results contributed to a dynamic day in the Premier League, impacting positions in both the upper and lower halves of the table.

Ceasefire: Israel Frees 90 Palestinian Prisoners

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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January 19, 2025

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Israel is set to release 90 Palestinian prisoners on Sunday, according to a list provided by the Palestinian Prisoners Society.

The group includes 69 women and nine minors, the youngest being 15 years old. An earlier statement from Israel’s Justice Ministry had indicated 95 individuals would be freed, but some were found to have already been released.

According to reports, currently, Israel holds over 10,000 Palestinian prisoners, including 3,376 under administrative detention—detained without formal charges or trial—among them 95 children and 22 women.

As a ceasefire took effect in Gaza on Sunday, many Palestinians returned to their devastated neighbourhoods, navigating the ruins of their homes.

In Rafah, a city in southern Gaza, residents expressed despair over widespread destruction. Mahmoud Abu Hilal lamented the loss of his four homes, while displaced resident Mohammad Al Qadi shared his grief, stating, “We are defeated. We have no lives; we will live in the streets.”

In northern Gaza, some celebrated the ceasefire with relief, while others described the moment as bittersweet.

Hala Shehada noted, “Surviving death is a joyful thing. Even though we face an uncertain future, the thought of no longer losing loved ones is a relief.”

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the release of three female hostages held by Hamas.

Two Israeli military helicopters landed in southern Israel near the Gaza border to transport the women to a hospital after their release.

The hostages include Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, and dual UK-Israeli citizen Emily Damari.

The Israeli military has also begun a partial withdrawal from Gaza under the terms of the ceasefire.

This initial phase, lasting 42 days, mandates Israel’s withdrawal from population centres while maintaining a presence along Gaza’s borders.

The truce marks the beginning of a prisoner exchange, with 33 Israeli hostages and nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees expected to be freed during this six-week period.

However, delays in implementing the ceasefire led to continued Israeli airstrikes, resulting in 13 Palestinian fatalities and dozens of injuries.

As the ceasefire stabilises, humanitarian aid has started flowing into Gaza. Trucks carrying food and supplies from the World Food Programme entered the enclave for the first time since the truce began.

The UN reported having 4,000 aid trucks ready, with half containing essential food items, to address the dire needs of the affected population.

Price Hike: Dangote Refinery Blames Global Oil Prices

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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January 19, 2025

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Dangote Refinery has explained why it recently adjusted the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol from N899 to N955 per litre.

Dangote Refinery announced the increase in price of petrol on 17 January.

Explaining the reason for the hike, Anthony Echiejina, Head of Corporate Communications, Dangote Industries, in a statement on Sunday in Lagos attributed it to the increase in global crude oil prices.

The Dangote group spokesperson added that the fluctuation in global crude prices impacted the cost of producing PMS, as crude oil remained the primary input in petrol production.

“Any change in international crude prices inevitably affects the cost of the finished product,” Echiejina said.

He added that the five per cent increase ex-depot price by Dangote Refinery is still significantly lower than the 15 per cent spike in global crude oil prices, which has seen Brent Crude rise from 70 dollars to 82 dollars per barrel.

Echiejina emphasised that Dangote Refinery had absorbed roughly 50 per cent of the cost increases, resulting from the rise in global crude prices.

He added that the refinery had also maintained the Single-Point Mooring (SPM) ex-vessel price at N895 per litre.

“As a result, all Dangote Refinery partners, including Ardova, Heyden, and MRS Holdings, will offer petrol at a retail price of N970 per litre across the nation.

“Despite the rise in global crude prices, Dangote Refinery has worked to ensure minimal impact on Nigerian consumers.

“This is by absorbing increased logistics costs, aiming for uniform pricing across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“If we were to pass on the full increase in crude oil prices, the retail price of PMS could have risen to as much as N1,150 to N1,200 per litre in some areas, compared to the current N970 per litre,” Echiejina added.

He said that Dangote Refinery remained committed to providing high-quality petrol at competitive prices, despite the challenges posed by global oil market volatility.

Echiejina noted the company’s priority is to shield Nigerians from the full impact of these fluctuations while continuing to support the nation’s economic growth and self-sufficiency.

He said that in an effort to maintain transparency, Dangote Refinery had announced it would publish its ex-depot price, ex-vessel price and pump price on a weekly basis.

This, he maintained, was to ensure consumers were informed and protected from price exploitation.

According to him, the refinery appreciates the President Bola Tinubu’s Naira for Crude Initiative, which has helped ensure consistent access to quality PMS for Nigerians while mitigating the impact of global market shifts.

Echiejina thanked Nigerians for their continued support, as Dangote Refinery works to provide the best value for money and contribute to the growth of a more resilient Nigerian economy.

Diezani Denies Link with Repatriated $52.8m Loot

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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January 19, 2025

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Former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke has distanced herself from the $52. 8m recently repatriated to Nigeria from the United States of America (USA).

Contrary to reports, the ex-minister, who has been in the United Kingdom (UK) since she left Nigeria, said the money does not belong to her.

In a statement titled “There is no such thing as Diezani Loot, Alison-Madueke claimed the money that was reportedly linked to her belongs to a Nigeria’s oil magnate, Kola Aluko.

In the statement released through her counsel, Prof. Mike Ozekhome (SAN), the ex-minister insisted there was nothing like “Diezani Loot.”

Explaining how the looted money came by, Alison-Madueke said the $52. 8m dollars came from a vessel seized by the American government from Aluko.

According to her, the vessel was later sold and its proceeds was returned to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Describing reports that linked her to the repatriated money as false, the ex-minister the purveyors of the information were hellbent on tarnishing her image, adding that she has nothing to do with the purchase, use and sale of the seize vessel.

The statement reads in part: “We note with concern the recent deliberate attempt to link her with what has been described as a civil forfeiture of a yacht Galactica, the sale of which was said to have yielded $52.8m to the US government; which sum has since been repatriated to Nigeria.

‘This is a clear example of the mischievous and cruel sport of tarnishing the image of the lady through a bouquet of consistent, persistent and unrelenting cocktail of falsehoods and misinformation.

“The purveyors of this line of misinformation term it “name-and-shame”. To sell the storyline, the architects ensured they attached Diezani’s name to a recovered yacht which is not in any way linked to her.

“They now falsely termed it “Diezani loot”. Nothing of the sort ever happened. She was never involved in the purchase, use and sale of the said yacht.

“The yacht Galactica, from information readily available in the public domain and in open sources, was purchased by Mr Kola Aluko who had used the vessel until he agreed to its forfeiture to the United States of America.”

She, therefore, advised those peddling unfounded, defamatory information and indefensible narratives about her to find better use of their time and leave her alone.

Nigeria Targets Export Market Of $79bn Under AfCFTA

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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January 19, 2025

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Nigeria targets an export market of up to $79bn through the expansion of her export capacity with the African Continental Free Trade Area framework’s.

Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, said this at a high-level roundtable on the country’s implementation of the AfCFTA protocols in Abuja, featuring AfCFTA Secretariat’s Secretary General Wamkele Mene.

Oduwole praised Nigeria’s participation in the development of AfCFTA and leadership in the implementation of the trade agreement.

Addressing the SG of the AfCFTA Secretariat, Mene, the minister noted Nigeria’s chairing of the Negotiating Forum that delivered the AfCFTA and its active engagement in aligning regulatory frameworks with AfCFTA protocols on investment, digital trade, intellectual property rights, and competition policy.

The minister listed anticipated benefits of AfCFTA to the country’s economy, including “an estimated 15-17 per cent increased growth in gross domestic product, creation of 11 million new jobs across sectors, and expansion of export capacity by at least 15 per cent, amounting to $79bn in increased exports.”

The conversation between the AfCFTA Secretariat and the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment centred on potentials and achievements in digital trade and trade in goods and services.

According to Oduwole, “Nigeria is a leader in digital trade within AfCFTA, (having achieved) the launch of the Technology Export and Digital Trade

Desk developed a digital economy and e-governance bill to address electronic communications and signatures and ran initiatives like the National Talent Export Programme and Outsource to Nigeria Initiative.

She also mentioned the government digital tech and creative entrepreneurship programme, known as the ‘Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises’ and the ‘3 Million Tech Talent Programme,’ and more as efforts to close knowledge gaps in the digital ecosystem.”

“There is compelling data on Nigeria’s digital economy,” Oduwole added. “Information Communication Technology sector contributing 20 per cent to GDP (Q2 2024), e-commerce spending projected to reach $75bn by 2025 and digital trade revenue growth from $5.09bn in 2019 to a projected $18.3bn in 2026.”

Further, Oduwole emphasised that the country has been updating its trade policy to align with AfCFTA objectives.

She highlighted that Nigeria has submitted its Schedule of Tariffs and Services, enhanced private sector engagement to foster readiness for intra-African trade opportunities, and assumed a positive approach to trade facilitation and ease of doing business.

Oduwole stressed the need to partner and collaborate with the AfCFTA Secretariat and other relevant stakeholders, noting, “I would like to emphasise the importance of partnerships with stakeholders such as Afreximbank and the launch of the $1bn Automobile Industry Facility Fund to support industrialisation efforts.

“I call for continued dialogue and capacity building to ensure inclusivity and the successful implementation of the AfCFTA.”

She urged stakeholders, including private sector leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, to collaborate on removing barriers to trade and boosting competitiveness and invest in digital and physical infrastructure to support trade and expand opportunities for women, youth, and small and medium enterprises to participate in regional markets.

Oduwole hailed the leadership of the AFCFTA Secretariat SG under Mene-led for advancing the AfCFTA framework and commended his efforts in implementing critical protocols, particularly on digital trade.

Explosion: Niger Bans Heavy-duty Trucks on Dikko Bridge

By

Rhoda Onuzulike

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January 19, 2025

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The Niger State Government has issued a directive prohibiting vehicles from the Maje axis from using the Dikko Bridge one-way.

This decision follows a tragic tanker explosion that occurred on Thursday, January 18, 2025, at Dikko Junction in Gurara Local Government Area.

Governor Mohammed Bago gave the directive during a visit to the explosion site. Expressing deep concern over the recklessness of some drivers, the Governor stated that “vehicles coming from Maje must use the designated route under the bridge and make appropriate U-turns to prevent future accidents.”

He called on the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, to establish a detachment in the area to enforce the new traffic rule.

The Governor also urged all relevant transport unions to cooperate with the FRSC to ensure compliance.

Describing the tanker explosion, which claimed 86 lives, as “pathetic,” Governor Bago thanked God that the tragedy did not extend to nearby communities.

He reiterated the need for the Nigerian Government to expedite the completion of the Minna-Suleja road, highlighting that delays in the project contribute to repeated accidents and unnecessary loss of lives.

The Governor commended the efforts of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), Fire Service, FRSC, and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in managing the aftermath of the tragedy.

He revealed that medical Doctors from Minna hospitals would be deployed to assist in treating the 55 injured victims, who are currently receiving care at Suleja General Hospital.

On the update on the incident, NSEMA’s Director General said 80 bodies were buried in a mass grave at the Dikko Primary Health Centre (PHC) premises, while five were released to relatives for private burial. One additional victim succumbed to injuries at the PHC. The mass burial, conducted by NSEMA in collaboration with Gurara LGA and local volunteers, took place between 5 PM and midnight on the day of the incident.

Governor Bago’s administration has vowed to ensure stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to prevent future tragedies and safeguard lives in Nigeria.

IMF Approve 2nd Review of Ethiopia’s $3.4B Programme

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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January 18, 2025

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) executive board has approved the second review of Ethiopia’s financing program, unlocking a disbursement of approximately $250 million.

This decision follows Ethiopia’s ambitious four-year, $3.4 billion reform program, agreed upon last July, which included significant measures such as floating its currency, the birr, to address its debt restructuring challenges.

In a statement, the IMF noted, “The authorities continue their efforts to restore debt sustainability and are taking steps to secure a debt treatment. The progress made on debt restructuring negotiations under the Common Framework is welcome. The financing assurances received and adjustment efforts made are consistent with IMF policy requirements and program parameters.”

The IMF staff and Ethiopian government reached an agreement on the review in late November.

According to the IMF, Ethiopia’s economy has performed better than anticipated under the reform program.

Inflationary pressures have been less severe than expected, and foreign currency reserves have grown at a faster pace than projected.

After conducting an accelerated series of reviews to monitor the impact of Ethiopia’s reforms, the IMF announced in November that it would transition to a standard six-month review schedule.

Despite the positive assessment, the IMF’s involvement in Ethiopia’s debt restructuring has faced criticism.

Some, including World Bank staff, have questioned the conclusions of the IMF’s debt sustainability assessment, citing concerns raised in an internal document last year.