The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced the recall of one batch of Deekins Amoxycillin 500mg Capsules due to reports of serious adverse drug reactions. The affected batch, with lot number 4C639001, was manufactured by Eco-med Pharma Ltd and marketed by DevineKings Pharmaceutical Ltd.
According to NAFDAC, the recall follows reports of serious adverse drug reactions associated with this batch. A hospital reported three cases of severe reactions in patients who were administered capsules from this batch.
Product Name: Deekins Amoxycillin 500mg Capsules Manufacturer: Eco-med Pharma Ltd Marketer: DevineKings Pharmaceutical Ltd Lot Number: 4C639001 Manufacturing Date: March 2024 Expiry Date: February 2027
NAFDAC has advised healthcare professionals and consumers to immediately stop using the affected batch and to report any suspicious cases of substandard or falsified medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office.
Healthcare professionals and consumers are advised to report any suspicion of substandard and falsified medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office, call 0800-162-3322, or email to sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng. Adverse events or side effects related to the use of the medicinal product can also be reported through the NAFDAC website or the Med-safety application
The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has assured Nigerians that funds generated from Value Added Tax (VAT) under the proposed tax reform bills will be utilized responsibly and transparently.
Speaking at a one-day roundtable on tax reform bills hosted by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) in Abuja, Oyedele highlighted that the proposed bills include clear guidelines on how VAT proceeds should be allocated and spent.
“These reforms prioritize critical national needs such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation, avoiding wasteful spending on non-essential or impractical projects,” Oyedele stated.
He criticized past investments in projects such as underutilized airports, low-traffic flyovers, and unused malls while vital sectors like education and healthcare were overlooked. The new framework, he said, would ensure accountability and prevent governors or local authorities from mismanaging VAT funds.
The reforms also address other fiscal challenges, including borrowing and subsidy management. Oyedele questioned practices like borrowing foreign currency for domestic investments and subsidizing inefficient projects, which undermine fiscal sustainability.
Clarifying misconceptions, Oyedele noted that VAT is categorized as state revenue, not part of the federation’s general revenue. “VAT proceeds are shared among states and local governments through a special pool account, with the federal government retaining a small portion for administrative purposes,” he explained.
He also dismissed rumors that the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) would engage private tax consultants like Alpha Beta Company for VAT collection. The reforms, he emphasized, explicitly prohibit FIRS from outsourcing routine tax operations to consultants.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the tax reform bills as a vital step toward modernizing Nigeria’s tax system and promoting equitable distribution of tax burdens. While acknowledging some public concerns and political resistance, Akpabio affirmed that the reforms aim to create a robust fiscal framework to boost revenue and foster national prosperity.
“The National Assembly is committed to ensuring transparency and public trust in this process,” Akpabio said.
NILDS Director General, Professor Abubakar Suleiman, reiterated that the reforms seek to establish a fairer tax system, reduce the burden on ordinary citizens, and enhance accountability. “The ongoing debates reflect the public’s growing awareness of the need for a balanced and effective tax framework,” he added.
On October 3, 2024, President Bola Tinubu submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly, based on recommendations from the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms. These bills include:
Nigeria Tax Bill 2024: Establishing the fiscal framework for taxation.
Tax Administration Bill: Simplifying tax processes and minimizing disputes.
Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill: Replacing the Federal Inland Revenue Service Act.
Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill: Introducing a tax tribunal and ombudsman.
Despite initial calls by the National Economic Council (NEC) for more consultations, President Tinubu has urged the legislative process to proceed while ensuring that public hearings allow citizens to contribute their input.
When Ademola Lookman took center stage during the UEFA Champions League match between Atalanta and Real Madrid, his dazzling performance reminded the football world of his exceptional talent.
The Nigerian international displayed electrifying speed, pinpoint accuracy, and a tactical understanding that kept Real Madrid’s defenders on their toes. While Atalanta narrowly missed out on victory, Lookman’s contribution solidified his status as one of the finest attackers in European football. This moment, like many others, underscores the meteoric rise of Lookman from a promising youth to an internationally acclaimed football star.
Early Life and Beginnings
Born on October 20, 1997, in Wandsworth, London, Ademola Lookman’s love for football was evident from an early age. He grew up playing street football, honing his skills in the competitive local leagues. His natural ability caught the attention of Charlton Athletic, where he joined the club’s youth academy in 2014. It didn’t take long for Lookman to rise through the ranks, making his senior debut for Charlton in November 2015 at just 18 years old.
During his time at Charlton, Lookman became a beacon of hope for the team. His pace, dribbling ability, and knack for scoring saw him net 10 goals in 45 appearances, earning him the Football League Championship Apprentice of the Year award in 2016.
Move to Everton and Premier League Stint
Lookman’s impressive performances at Charlton led to a January 2017 transfer to Everton for £7.5 million. His Premier League debut was nothing short of sensational, scoring within minutes of coming on as a substitute in a 4-0 victory over Manchester City.
Despite his bright start, Lookman’s time at Everton was marked by inconsistency, with limited playing opportunities hampering his progress. He managed 48 appearances and 4 goals for the Toffees before seeking more regular football elsewhere.
Breakthrough in Germany: RB Leipzig
In search of greener pastures, Lookman joined RB Leipzig on loan in January 2018. The Bundesliga proved to be a perfect fit for his style of play. In just 11 appearances during the second half of the season, Lookman scored 5 goals and provided 4 assists, becoming a fan favorite. Leipzig made his move permanent in July 2019 for €25 million. However, his second spell at the club was less impactful, leading to further loans to Fulham and Leicester City.
Leicester City and Consistency in England
During the 2021/2022 season, Lookman found stability on loan at Leicester City, contributing 8 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions. He played a pivotal role in Leicester’s domestic campaigns and European outings, reigniting his career and showcasing his adaptability.
Resurgence at Atalanta
In 2022, Lookman signed with Italian Serie A side Atalanta, a move that has arguably been the highlight of his career. Atalanta’s attacking system provided Lookman with the freedom to express his creativity and exploit defenses with his explosive pace.
In his debut Serie A season, Lookman recorded double figures in goals and assists, cementing his reputation as a key player. His performances in both domestic and European competitions have drawn widespread acclaim, including from Nigerian fans who proudly support his exploits for the national team.
Achievements and Nominations
Ademola Lookman’s career is adorned with several individual accolades and team contributions:
Football League Championship Apprentice of the Year (2016): Recognized for his outstanding performances at Charlton Athletic.
RB Leipzig Player of the Month (May 2018): Acknowledged for his impactful loan stint in the Bundesliga.
Leicester City Goal of the Month (2022): Awarded for a stunning solo goal in the Premier League.
International Career
Although born in England and representing the Three Lions at youth levels, Lookman switched allegiance to Nigeria in 2021. He made his senior debut for the Super Eagles in 2022 and has since become an integral part of the team, known for his creativity and goal-scoring prowess.
Teams Played For
1. Charlton Athletic (2015-2017)
2. Everton (2017-2019)
3. RB Leipzig (2018 – Loan, 2019-2021)
4. Fulham (2020-2021 – Loan)
5. Leicester City (2021-2022 – Loan)
6. Atalanta (2022 – Present)
Ademola Lookman’s journey is a testament to resilience and talent. From the streets of London to the grand stages of European football, Lookman has proven that dedication and hard work can lead to greatness.
His performances continue to inspire fans worldwide, particularly in Nigeria, where he is celebrated as a football icon. With his best years still ahead, the world eagerly awaits the next chapter of Ademola Lookman’s illustrious career.
In a landmark decision, Zambia’s Constitutional Court has ruled that former President Edgar Lungu is ineligible to seek a third term in office. This verdict comes after Lungu announced his return to active politics last year, sparking controversy over his potential candidacy.
The court’s decision hinges on Lungu’s first term, served from 2015 to 2016 following the death of President Michael Sata. The court determined that this term counts as a full presidential term, effectively blocking his bid for a new mandate.
Lungu has denounced the verdict, claiming it was “steered by the hands of political manipulation”. The 68-year-old former president faces allegations of corruption during his time in office, and his wife and other family members are currently facing graft charges in court. Lungu alleges that these charges are a ploy to prevent him from seeking a third term.
Despite the court’s decision, the vice president of Lungu’s party has stated that the former leader is “not concerned” and will continue to campaign and serve as the party’s presidential candidate in 2026. This development has significant implications for Zambia’s political landscape, as Lungu’s candidacy has been a topic of intense debate.
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has announced a significant change in its immigration visa processes, effective January 1, 2025. Applicants with scheduled interviews will now be required to visit the Consulate General in Lagos at least twice during the process.
The new process is designed to facilitate smoother visa interviews and prevent delays in processing immigrant visas. Here’s a breakdown of the new requirements:
In-Person Document Review: Applicants will first visit the US Consulate in Lagos for an in-person document review with a consular staff member. This review ensures applicants are prepared for their visa interviews and allows them to retrieve any missing documents ahead of time.
Second Interview with a Consular Officer: The second visit will be for an interview with a Consular Officer, scheduled by the National Visa Center (NVC). Rescheduling Requirement: Failure to complete the In-Person Document Review before the visa interview will require applicants to reschedule their appointment.
This development comes after the embassy announced in July 2024 that its operations in Abuja and Lagos consulates would be handled by a new visa services provider, effective August 26, 2024.
The new process may impact Nigerian applicants seeking immigrant visas to the United States. It is essential for applicants to carefully review the requirements and timelines to ensure a smooth application process.
Folake Ani-Mumuney, the former Global Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank Ltd, one of Nigeria’s leading banks, has resigned.
Ani-Mumuney, a highly respected figure in Nigeria’s marketing industry, played a key role in shaping the bank’s communication and marketing strategies.
However, sources from TheCable reports that her resignation was prompted by the bank’s chairman, Femi Otedola. According to the report, Mr. Otedola was “seriously irked” by a lavish send-off party organized by the bank for Adesola Adeduntan, its former Managing Director.
The event, held on November 2, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, was in honor of Adeduntan, who served as GMD and CEO for nine years until April 2024.
Despite Otedola’s absence, the party had in attendance many dignitaries and top management of the bank.
Adeduntan himself resigned earlier this year under controversial circumstances as Otedola seeks to reposition the bank for improved competitiveness.
The TheCable report highlights sparked criticism from Mr. Otedola’s with the lavish send-off party, who described it as “insensitive and wasteful,” during a time when First Bank is focused on recapitalization and repositioning the institution from excesses of the past management
Reports show FirstBank’s Holdings operating expenses of N421.3 billion in the first nine months of 2024, a sharp increase from N212.1 billion recorded in the same period last year. Advertising and promotional expenses also saw a sharp increase, rising from N20 billion to N44.5 billion year-on-year.
The bank’s share price has risen 11% year-to-date, currently priced at N26 per share. FirstBank is also undergoing a rights issue aimed at strengthening its capital base.
Sources stated that he is committed to streamlining the bank’s operations and has consistently cautioned against “extravagant” spending.
According to TheCable, Otedola, who has in recent times developed a reputation for being a “no-nonsense activist investor”, is planning to take more “drastic” decisions and actions to keep First Bank on the track of impeccable banking “devoid of extravagance and waste of shareholders’ resources”
Despite these challenges, FirstBank’s share price has risen 11% year-to-date, now standing at N26 per share, and the bank is currently undergoing a rights issue to strengthen its capital base.
Otedola’s focus on cost reduction and curbing extravagant spending is believed to be at the heart of these changes, and he is reportedly planning to implement further measures to ensure the bank operates more efficiently.
Ani-Mumuney a highly regarded figure in the branding and communications industry, with several stakeholders has garnered praises for her contributions via social media. She had also been planning her exit from the bank for years to pursue personal ambitions.
What to know
The reported resignation has stirred discussions among First Bank’s senior leadership, raising questions about the future direction under Otedola’s guidance.
The development reflects the chairman’s commitment to holding leadership accountable for decisions that may not align with the bank’s strategic goals.
Adeduntan, praised for guiding the bank through difficult times, has remained silent on the matter.
Despite the farewell event being attended by numerous dignitaries, including state governors, the controversy over the event’s costs continues to linger as the bank looks toward a future beyond Mrs. Ani-Mumuney’s tenure.
First Bank has yet to issue an official statement regarding Ani-Mumuney’s position or the concerns reportedly raised by Otedola.
However, this situation highlights broader efforts to foster a culture of transparency and financial responsibility within the institution.
As Nigeria’s oldest bank, First Bank is navigating a pivotal period of transformation, with Otedola’s leadership signaling a strong focus on aligning the bank’s operations with the expectations of shareholders and the market.
Democracy in Africa is a subject of growing global interest, with Ghana and Nigeria often at the center of discussions due to their political history and influence in West Africa. One notable point of comparison is the duration it takes to announce election results. In Ghana, results are typically announced within 48 hours as seen in the just concluded 2024 general election. Conversely, Nigeria often takes days to declare a winner in an election. While both nations are celebrated for their transitions to democracy, the question arises: is Ghana’s democracy more mature than Nigeria’s?
Examining theirElectoral Systems and Frameworks
Ghana Ghana’s democratic journey is often hailed as a model in Africa, largely due to the efficiency of its Electoral Commission (EC). The commission has maintained a consistent record of organizing elections as scheduled, ensuring that the constitutional timeline for electoral transitions is respected. The Electoral Commission has been pivotal in introducing reforms like biometric voter registration, which have enhanced the credibility of elections.
Nigeria Nigeria’s electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has made significant strides in improving electoral processes, including the adoption of the Electoral Act 2022. However, challenges persist, such as logistical issues that lead to election postponements and difficulties in delivering election materials to remote areas. These challenges have raised concerns about the institutional capacity of INEC to handle the complexities of Nigeria’s large and diverse electorate.
Voters Turnout and Electoral Participation
Ghana Voter turnout in Ghana has remained relatively stable over the past three election cycles, often exceeding 70%. This is attributed to robust voter education campaigns and a higher level of public trust in the electoral process. Political parties actively mobilize voters, fostering a sense of civic responsibility among the electorate.
Nigeria Nigeria, by contrast, has seen a decline in voter turnout, with the 2023 elections recording one of the lowest turnouts in the country’s democratic history at approximately 29%. Factors contributing to this decline include insecurity, logistical challenges, and voter apathy, with many citizens expressing doubts about the integrity of the electoral process.
Electoral Transparency and Fairness
Ghana Ghana has made significant advancements in ensuring electoral transparency, with the successful implementation of biometric systems to prevent voter fraud. International observers have frequently lauded Ghana’s elections as free, fair, and credible. Disputes, when they arise, are resolved through legal channels with minimal public unrest.
Nigeria Nigeria introduced technologies such as BVAS (Biometric Voter Accreditation System) to enhance transparency. However, reports of vote-buying, ballot box snatching, and allegations of election rigging continue to undermine confidence in the system. While progress has been made, public skepticism remains a hurdle.
Post-Election Peace and Stability
Ghana A hallmark of Ghana’s democracy is its peaceful transitions of power, even in tightly contested elections. For example, the 2012 presidential election dispute was resolved in court without resorting to violence. This culture of legal resolution has bolstered Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy.
Nigeria Nigeria has witnessed significant post-election violence, notably after the 2011 presidential elections. While the country has improved in managing post-election disputes, the 2023 elections still saw tensions in various regions, fueled by accusations of electoral malpractice.
Civil Society and Media Involvement
Ghana Civil society organizations in Ghana play an active role in monitoring elections and educating voters. The media, both traditional and digital, is relatively free and contributes to accountability by exposing electoral malpractices and educating the electorate.
Nigeria
In Nigeria, civil society is increasingly active in election monitoring and advocacy for transparency. However, challenges such as media censorship, misinformation, and the influence of fake news on social media have complicated the electoral process.
While both Ghana and Nigeria have made strides in their democratic journeys, Ghana’s consistent voter engagement, transparent elections, and peaceful power transitions suggest a more mature democracy. Nigeria, despite its challenges, continues to make progress, but addressing issues of transparency, voter apathy, and post-election conflicts is crucial for its democratic evolution. As both nations navigate their unique political landscapes, their experiences provide valuable lessons for the advancement of democracy across Africa.
A Federal Capital Territory High Court on Tuesday rejected the bail application of Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, citing procedural errors in the filing. Justice Maryanne Anenih, in her ruling, explained that the application was premature as it was submitted before Bello was present in court or in custody.
The judge stated, “Since the application was filed before the defendant was either in custody or before the court, it is deemed incompetent. Therefore, the application is refused.”
Bello, along with two other individuals, faces charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in connection with an alleged N110 billion money laundering scheme. The court noted that the bail application, dated November 22, was submitted prior to Bello’s formal arraignment, which occurred on November 27, following his arrest on November 26.
Bello’s legal counsel, Jacob Daudu (SAN), urged the court to consider the application, arguing that his client, a former two-term governor, would not interfere with witnesses or flee. “The defendant became aware of the charges through public summons and is a responsible individual who will comply with the court’s conditions,” Daudu said.
However, EFCC lawyer Kemi Pinheiro (SAN) argued that the application was flawed, having been filed before the arraignment, which violated the Administration of Criminal Justice Act. Pinheiro urged the court to dismiss the application based on its invalid timing.
Meanwhile, the second defendant in the case, Umar Oricha, was granted bail in the amount of N300 million with two sureties. The court stipulated that the sureties must own properties in the Maitama area of Abuja worth at least the bail amount and submit original title documents to the court. Oricha was also required to deposit his travel documents with the court and remain in custody until the bail conditions were fully met.
Nigeria has emerged as the fourth-highest-ranking country for military naturalization in the United States between 2020 and 2024.
During this period, over 52,000 military personnel from various nations became U.S. citizens through naturalization. Data from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reveals that 3,270 Nigerian-born service members were granted citizenship, trailing behind the Philippines (5,630), Jamaica (5,420), and Mexico (3,670).
According to the report, these top five countries—Philippines, Jamaica, Mexico, Nigeria, and Ghana—accounted for over 38% of military naturalizations during the reviewed timeframe. The next five countries—Haiti, China, Cameroon, Vietnam, and South Korea—contributed an additional 16%.
The number of Nigerians gaining U.S. citizenship through military service has shown consistent growth over the five years. Starting with 340 naturalizations in 2020, the figure climbed to 630 in 2021, 680 in 2022, 690 in 2023, and 930 in 2024.
The U.S. Army accounted for the majority (60%) of military naturalizations, followed by the Navy (20.4%), Air Force (10.6%), and Marine Corps (6.6%). The Coast Guard represented less than 1% of these naturalizations.
Demographically, half of all service members who naturalized were between the ages of 22 and 30, with a median age of 27. Approximately 17% were 21 years old or younger, and nearly 5% were over 40 years old.
In terms of gender, men dominated the figures, representing 73% of all naturalized service members. However, the report noted a gradual increase in the proportion of female service members gaining citizenship over the years.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has inaugurated the Abiola-Onijemo Link Road with a bridge in Ifako Ijaiye Local Government Area, alongside the newly constructed Alapere Pedestrian Bridge. These infrastructure projects aim to improve connectivity and quality of life for Lagos residents.
The Abiola-Onijemo Link Road features a 135-meter reinforced concrete bridge that spans a 25-meter swamp belt, linking the Abiola/Ajayi/Ogba and Obawole/Iju-Ishaga communities. The 643-meter-long project includes a 7.3-meter-wide carriageway, slip roads, pedestrian walkways, and solar-powered streetlights to cater to the area’s growing population.
The bridge replaces a precarious wooden structure previously used by pedestrians, addressing long-standing safety and environmental concerns. Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized his administration’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises of tackling inadequate infrastructure and flooding in the area.
“Today, we celebrate a significant milestone in improving connectivity and fostering economic growth for Lagosians,” Sanwo-Olu stated. “This project transforms lives by connecting Abiola and Onijemo Streets, previously divided by a canal for decades. Residents can now enjoy safer and faster movement, reduced travel times, and increased opportunities for trade and commerce.”
The governor urged the community to maintain and protect the new infrastructure while highlighting the broader impact of the project on local businesses and daily commutes.
Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Olufemi Daramola, lauded the initiative, noting its strategic importance. “This road and bridge provide a critical connection through swampy terrain, linking College Road via Ajayi Street in Ogba to Aruna, Obawole, and Iju-Ishaga. It significantly enhances vehicular movement and stimulates local commerce,” Daramola said.
Desmond Elliot, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Works and Infrastructure, commended the administration’s dedication to transformative projects across the state, emphasizing their value in improving residents’ lives.
These developments are part of the Sanwo-Olu administration’s broader agenda to unveil 36 new roads and bridges across Lagos, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable urban development.
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