Nigeria’s Non-Oil Exports Surge to $5.46bn in 2024 – NEPC

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January 31, 2025

The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has reported a significant 20.79% increase in Nigeria’s non-oil exports, which reached $5.456 billion in 2024, surpassing the $4.5 billion recorded in 2023.

Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja on the 2024 non-oil export sector performance, NEPC’s Executive Director, Nonye Ayeni, highlighted the sector’s resilience and diversification as key drivers of this growth. She emphasized that the shift away from oil dependency aligns with Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.

Ayeni attributed the surge to heightened economic activities in agriculture, manufacturing, and solid minerals. She noted that agricultural exports, including cocoa seeds, cocoa butter, sesame seeds, and cashew nuts, played a major role, alongside the increased export of urea and manufactured goods.

“Despite economic challenges and global uncertainties, the NEPC, through strategic partnerships with relevant agencies and institutions, has bolstered economic diversification, achieving an impressive non-oil export performance of $5.456 billion in 2024. This marks a substantial 20.79% increase from the $4.517 billion recorded in 2023,” she stated.

She further highlighted that this growth reflects the impact of the federal government’s policies aimed at enhancing trade through effective fiscal and financial strategies.

JAMB Postpones 2025 UTME Registration to February 3

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 31, 2025

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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has postponed the commencement of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration to Monday, February 3.

Initially scheduled to begin on Friday, January 31, the registration was delayed to allow JAMB to implement crucial adjustments to its registration system.

This announcement was made by the Board’s Public Communication Advisor, Fabian Benjamin, in a statement shared on JAMB’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday.

Benjamin explained that the postponement was prompted by several factors, including the recent suspension of law programmes in some Nigerian universities and the discovery of fraudulent Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres that obtained approval through deceptive means.

JAMB expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to prospective UTME candidates and stakeholders, assuring them that the delay is aimed at ensuring a smooth and transparent registration process.

“These changes are necessary following the suspension of certain law programmes at select universities, as communicated to the Board by the Council for Legal Education,” the statement read.

“Additionally, some CBT centres were found to have gained approval using misleading facilities. To maintain the integrity of the examination process, the Board is carrying out further verifications and disapproving such centres,” it added.

JAMB also reassured candidates that the additional time would help facilitate a seamless registration process.

JAMB advised prospective candidates to prepare in advance by obtaining their National Identification Number (NIN) and a dedicated phone number for registration.

“You can secure your NIN ahead of time and use a phone number that has not been previously registered on our platform to generate your profile code before registration begins,” JAMB tweeted via its official X handle.

Furthermore, the Board announced that The Lekki Headmaster by Kabir Alabi Garba has been selected as the recommended reading text for the 2025 UTME Use of English examination.

Inflation In Zimbabwe Rises By 10.5%

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 31, 2025

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Zimbabwe experienced a sharp rise in inflation this January, with rates increasing by 14.6% in U.S. dollar terms and 10.5% in local currency terms compared to the previous year.

Independent economist Prosper Chitambara attributes the inflation spike to higher taxes and last year’s regional drought, which drove up food prices. The Finance Ministry’s recent tax measures, including a 0.5% levy on fast food and a 10% tax on sports betting winnings, came into effect this month, further impacting prices.

Despite launching a gold-backed currency in April 2023, Zimbabwe saw a sharp devaluation in September, forcing most transactions to rely on the U.S. dollar. Since its devaluation, the Zimbabwe Gold currency has continued to lose value, trading at 26.3 per dollar as of Tuesday, according to the central bank’s website

AFCON 2025: How Far Can Nigeria Go In Group C?

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Austin King

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January 31, 2025

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The African Cup of Nations (AFCON) is back, and the Super Eagles of Nigeria are ready to soar. Drawn into Group C, Nigeria faces a mix of familiar foes and rising challengers. With Tunisia’s tactical discipline, Sudan’s resilience, and Tanzania’s hunger to prove themselves, this group promises to be a thrilling battleground. Let’s break down Nigeria’s opponents, their strengths, qualifying performances, and head-to-head records to give you a comprehensive preview of what to expect.

The Group: A Closer Look at Nigeria’s Opponents

Nigeria has been placed in Group C, alongside Tunisia, Sudan, and Tanzania. This group is a blend of tactical nous, grit, and unpredictability. Here’s a detailed look at each team:

1. Tunisia: The Carthage Eagles’ Tactical Mastery

FIFA Ranking: 3rd in Africa, 28th globally (as of latest rankings).
AFCON Titles: 1 (2004).
Key Player: Youssef Msakni (Al-Arabi) – The experienced forward is Tunisia’s creative engine and dead-ball specialist.
Recent Form: Tunisia reached the quarterfinals in the last AFCON (2021) and have been consistent in qualifiers, losing only once in their last 10 matches.
Qualifying Performance: Tunisia topped their qualifying group with 13 points (4 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss), scoring 11 goals and conceding just 1. Their defense was rock-solid, keeping 5 clean sheets in 6 games.
Head-to-Head vs Nigeria:
Total Matches: 20
Nigeria Wins: 7
Tunisia Wins: 8
Draws: 5
Last Meeting: Tunisia won 1-0 in the 2019 AFCON third-place playoff.

What to Expect: Tunisia is a well-drilled side with a strong defense and a knack for grinding out results. Nigeria will need to be clinical in attack and avoid mistakes in midfield to overcome their tactical discipline. The Carthage Eagles’ defensive record in qualifying suggests they’ll be tough to break down.

2. Sudan: The Underdogs with a Point to Prove

FIFA Ranking: 29th in Africa, 127th globally.
AFCON Titles: 1 (1970).
Key Player: Saif Terry (Al-Hilal Omdurman) – A versatile forward who can create and score.
Recent Form: Sudan surprised many by qualifying for AFCON, finishing second in their group ahead of South Africa. They’ve shown resilience, especially at home.
Qualifying Performance: Sudan finished second in their group with 12 points (4 wins, 0 draws, 2 losses), scoring 9 goals and conceding 8. They were particularly strong at home, winning all 3 matches.
Head-to-Head vs Nigeria:
Total Matches: 10
Nigeria Wins: 7
Sudan Wins: 1
Draws: 2
Last Meeting: Nigeria won 3-1 in a friendly in 2021.

What to Expect: Sudan may lack star power, but they are a disciplined side that thrives on counter-attacks. Nigeria cannot afford to underestimate them, as they’ve proven they can grind out results. Their home form in qualifying shows they can be a tough nut to crack.

3. Tanzania: The Rising Challengers

FIFA Ranking: 31st in Africa, 131st globally.
AFCON Titles: None.
Key Player: Mbwana Samatta (PAOK) – The former Genk striker is Tanzania’s talisman and main goal threat.
Recent Form: Tanzania qualified for AFCON by finishing second in their group, ahead of Uganda. They’ve shown improvement in recent years but remain inconsistent.
Qualifying Performance: Tanzania finished second in their group with 8 points (2 wins, 2 draws, 2 losses), scoring 6 goals and conceding 5. They struggled away from home but were solid in front of their fans.
Head-to-Head vs Nigeria:
Total Matches: 3
Nigeria Wins: 3
Tanzania Wins: 0
Draws: 0
Last Meeting: Nigeria won 1-0 in the 2019 AFCON group stage.

What to Expect: Tanzania is a physical, hardworking team that relies on Samatta for goals. Nigeria must be wary of their energy and set-piece threats. While they’ve never beaten Nigeria, their qualifying campaign showed they can be stubborn opponents.

Nigeria’s Chances: Strengths and Weaknesses

FIFA Ranking: 5th in Africa, 32nd globally.
AFCON Titles: 3 (1980, 1994, 2013).
Key Players: Victor Osimhen (Napoli), Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City), and Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan).
Qualifying Performance: Nigeria topped their group with 15 points (5 wins, 0 draws, 1 loss), scoring 22 goals and conceding just 4. They were dominant, with Osimhen scoring 10 goals in 6 games.
Recent Form: The Super Eagles have won 7 of their last 10 matches, with their only loss coming against Guinea-Bissau in the qualifiers.

Strengths:

A potent attack led by Osimhen, one of the most in-form strikers in Europe.
A midfield anchored by Ndidi and Alex Iwobi, offering balance and creativity.
Experience in big tournaments, with several players plying their trade in top European leagues.

Weaknesses:

Defensive vulnerabilities, especially in set-piece situations.
Over-reliance on Osimhen for goals.
Inconsistent performances against lower-ranked teams.

Tactical Keys for Nigeria

Exploit the Wings: With Chukwueze and Moses Simon, Nigeria has the pace to stretch defenses and create chances.
Midfield Control: Ndidi and Iwobi must dominate the midfield to nullify Tunisia’s creativity and break down Sudan and Tanzania’s compact setups.
Defensive Discipline: Cutting out errors and staying organized at the back will be crucial, especially against Tunisia’s tactical approach.

Prediction: Can Nigeria Advance?

Nigeria has the talent and experience to progress, but it won’t be easy. Tunisia is the biggest threat, and dropping points against Sudan or Tanzania could prove costly. If the Super Eagles can address their defensive issues and fire on all cylinders in attack, they should finish in the top two.

Likely Group Standings:

Nigeria
Tunisia
Sudan
Tanzania

The Super Eagles are poised for a thrilling AFCON campaign, but they must navigate a tricky group to keep their dreams alive. With a blend of youth and experience, Nigeria has the tools to succeed. However, complacency could be their downfall. Football fans, buckle up – this group promises drama, goals, and unforgettable moments. Will Nigeria rise to the occasion? Only time will tell.

South Africa Reduces Interest Rate to 7.50%

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 30, 2025

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South Africa’s central bank has reduced its key lending rate by 25 basis points to 7.50%, aligning with market expectations. Prior to this reduction, the rate stood at 7.75%. This decision, announced on Thursday, reflects the bank’s assessment that while inflation remains controlled, the medium-term economic outlook is more uncertain than usual.

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) reached a split decision, with four members favoring the rate cut, while two preferred to keep rates unchanged.

In December, annual inflation edged up to 3.0%, the latest available data, yet it remains at the lower end of the central bank’s 3%-6% target range. Throughout 2024, inflation averaged 4.4%, slightly below the mid-point of this range. Additionally, inflation expectations among analysts, business leaders, and trade union officials—key indicators monitored by the central bank—have shown signs of improvement.

This rate cut follows a previous reduction in November 2024, when the central bank lowered the rate by 25 basis points to 7.75%.

JAMB Suspends Law Admissions in Eight Universities

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 30, 2025

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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has suspended admissions for the Law programme in eight universities across Nigeria.

JAMB’s spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, announced this decision in a statement on Wednesday, citing the suspension of the Bachelor of Laws programme by the Council of Legal Education for the 2025/2026 academic session in the affected institutions.

The universities impacted by this directive include:

Kwara State University, Malete, Ilorin, Kwara State
Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State
Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State
Western Delta University, Oghara, Delta State
Taraba State University, Jalingo, Taraba State
Arthur Jarvis University, Akpabuyo, Cross River State
Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State
Nigerian Police Academy, Wudil, Kano State

Notably, the suspension of the Law programme at the Nigerian Police Academy, Wudil, will last for two academic sessions—2025/2026 and 2026/2027.

“As a result, JAMB will not process admissions for candidates applying to study Law at these institutions for the 2025/2026 academic session,” the statement read.

Additionally, the Nigerian Police Academy will remain ineligible for Law programme registrations through the 2026/2027 academic session.

Tariff Hike: Labour Plans Nationwide Protest

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 30, 2025

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The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to stage a nationwide protest on February 4, 2025, against the proposed 50% hike in telecommunications tariffs approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

In a communiqué signed by its National President, Joe Ajaero, the NLC condemned the increase as insensitive and unjustifiable, warning that failure to reverse the decision could lead to a mass boycott of telecommunication services.

The resolution was reached during the NLC’s National Administrative Council (NAC) meeting on January 29, where the union reaffirmed its commitment to resisting policies that further burden Nigerians.

Civil Society Groups Join the Protest

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), including the Civil Society Legislative and Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN), and Take It Back Movement, have pledged their support for the protest. They condemned the tariff hike, arguing that it worsens economic hardship for Nigerians already grappling with rising inflation, high fuel costs, and increased electricity tariffs.

Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC, criticized the telecom tariff increase, stating that multinational corporations and their government collaborators are exploiting Nigerians. He assured that CISLAC would support any action that reduces the financial burden on citizens.

Similarly, Damilare Adenola, Director of Mobilization for the Take It Back Movement, confirmed the group’s participation, stressing that the hike should not just be reduced but completely reversed.

Labour Calls for Nationwide Mobilization

The NLC has directed all affiliates and state councils to begin full-scale mobilization for the protest. Ajaero emphasized that the demonstration would serve as a warning to the government, adding that Nigerian workers must resist policies that prioritize corporate profits over public welfare.

“The minimum wage is only N70,000, yet Nigerians are being forced to pay higher prices for fuel, food, electricity, and now telecom services. This is economic suffocation,” Ajaero stated.

He urged the Federal Government, NCC, and National Assembly to immediately suspend the tariff hike and engage stakeholders in discussions. Failure to do so, he warned, could escalate into a mass boycott of telecom services and additional nationwide actions.

Telecom Operators Push Back

Meanwhile, telecommunications companies have criticized the planned protest, arguing that they have absorbed financial pressures for years without passing the burden to consumers.

Tony Emoekpere, Chairman of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), questioned why NLC is targeting telecom operators while similar price hikes in transport, food, and energy sectors have gone unchallenged.

“When the prices of tomatoes, onions, or bread increased, did we see any protests? No one took to the streets when transport fares rose due to increasing fuel costs,” he remarked.

With tensions rising, the February 4 protest is set to be a defining moment in Nigeria’s economic landscape, as labour unions, civil society groups, and citizens push back against policies they deem oppressive.

Meta To Pay Trump $25m For Account Ban Settlement

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 30, 2025

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Meta has reached a $25 million settlement with former U.S. President Donald Trump over a lawsuit he filed in 2021, claiming wrongful censorship by Facebook and Instagram following the U.S. Capitol riot. The agreement, first reported by The Wall Street Journal, marks a significant legal victory for Trump.

According to sources familiar with the deal, $22 million of the settlement will go toward funding Trump’s future presidential library, while the remaining amount will cover legal fees and payments to other plaintiffs involved in the case. Despite the payout, Meta has not admitted any wrongdoing regarding the suspension of Trump’s accounts.

A Meta spokesperson confirmed the settlement to AFP.

Trump had previously criticized social media platforms for banning his accounts in the aftermath of the January 6, 2021, insurrection, arguing that they silenced his voice. However, he has recently sought to mend ties with key tech figures, including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and X owner Elon Musk, both of whom attended his recent presidential inauguration in Washington.

Zuckerberg has expressed support for Trump and made policy adjustments at Meta to ease content restrictions across its platforms, which include Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and WhatsApp. Earlier this month, he announced a rollback of fact-checking operations, stating that Meta was committed to “restoring free expression on our platforms.” Reports also suggest Zuckerberg and Trump dined together at Trump’s Florida estate in November.

This settlement is part of a broader trend of media corporations preparing for a potential second Trump presidency. In December, ABC News paid a $15 million settlement to resolve a defamation lawsuit brought by Trump over comments made by a top anchor.

Meanwhile, Meta reported a strong financial performance on Wednesday, revealing a 59% surge in net income to $62.36 billion for the full year.

Moments From The Thrilling UEFA Champions League Showdowns

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Tosin Onisuuru

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January 30, 2025

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The UEFA Champions League delivered a series of captivating matches on January 29, 2025, as teams vied for progression in Europe’s premier club competition. Here’s a comprehensive review of the key fixtures and their standout moments.

Aston Villa vs. Celtic FC

Aston Villa secured a thrilling 4-2 victory over Celtic. Morgan Rogers was the star of the match, netting a hat-trick that propelled Villa to victory. Despite Celtic’s efforts, including two goals from Adam Idah, Villa’s offensive prowess proved decisive.

Girona FC vs. Arsenal

Arsenal edged past Girona with a 2-1 win. The Gunners showcased resilience and tactical discipline to secure the victory, bolstering their position in the competition.

PSV vs. Liverpool

In a high-scoring encounter, PSV triumphed over Liverpool with a 3-2 scoreline. Despite the loss, Liverpool maintained their top spot in the group. Cody Gakpo and Harvey Elliott found the net for Liverpool, but PSV’s persistent attack secured them the win.

Bayern München vs. ŠK Slovan Bratislava

Bayern Munich continued their strong form with a 3-1 victory over Slovan Bratislava. Goals from Thomas Müller and Harry Kane, both from headers, highlighted Bayern’s aerial dominance. This win ensured Bayern’s progression to the knockout phase playoffs.

Manchester City vs. Club Brugge KV

Manchester City secured a 3-1 win against Club Brugge, ensuring their place in the play-offs. Goals from Mateo Kovacic and Savinho, along with an own goal from Joel Ordonez, sealed the victory. City now faces the prospect of a challenging tie against either Bayern Munich or Real Madrid in the next round.

Stade Brestois 29 vs. Real Madrid

Real Madrid delivered a commanding performance with a 3-0 victory over Stade Brestois 29. Rodrygo’s brace and a goal from Jude Bellingham secured the win, confirming Madrid’s progression to the knockout phase playoffs.

These fixtures highlighted the intensity and unpredictability of the Champions League, setting the stage for an exciting knockout phase.

Why PDP Key Members Clashed At Board Of Trustees Meeting

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Yemisi Lanre-Idowu

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January 29, 2025

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Tension erupted on Wednesday, 29th of January at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Secretariat in the capital, Abuja leading to clashes, following the arrival of Sunday Ude-Okoye, the second claimant to the National Secretary position.

The Board of Trustees (BOT) meeting was ongoing with Ambassador Iliya Damagum, Acting National Chairman, and Anyanwu seated before the arrival of Ude-Okoye at exactly 12:02pm.

The moment Udu-Okoye got into the hall, Senator Adolphus Wabara, BoT Chairman, was delivering a speech.

Despite the apparent tension his sudden presence caused, Ude-Okoye remained calm as he took a seat at the far end of the high table.

Udu-Okoye waited for the BoT Chairman to finish his speech before going round to greet those on the high table, excluding his rival, Anyanwu.

Udu-Okoye was eventually forced out of the meeting by suspected thugs, which led to an altercation.

Around this time, journalists were asked to leave for a closed-door session.

As he was being removed, Udu-Okoye was seen shouting, urging his supporters to prevent his ejection.

He later made his way to the gate, protesting the injustice, as Anyanwu’s supporters were allowed into the Secretariat while his own were denied access.

It remains unclear whether Ude-Okoye was invited by the BOT Chairman, who appeared dissatisfied with the ongoing situation.

LN247 will continue to bring you details as it unfolds.