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Spain Deploys Troops To Ceuta After Mass Migrant Crossing From Morocco

By
Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Spain is sending military reinforcements to its North African enclave of Ceuta after thousands of migrants swam across the border from Morocco on Thursday, in one of the largest crossings the territory has seen in years.

At least 18 people died attempting the crossing. Local officials had already asked Madrid for extra support following a recent uptick in crossing attempts, but the situation deteriorated sharply on Thursday when border controls appeared to collapse entirely.

The surge followed a ruling by Spain’s Supreme Court earlier this month barring the summary return of migrants intercepted at sea near Ceuta or Melilla. Spain’s interior ministry blamed trafficking networks for exploiting that ruling to push more people toward the crossing, and said the armed forces would support the Civil Guard in restoring order. Officials added they were coordinating with Morocco to send back everyone who crossed as quickly as possible.

Ceuta, separated from mainland Spain by the Strait of Gibraltar, has long been a source of friction between Madrid and Rabat. Spain considers both Ceuta and its sister enclave Melilla to be full Spanish territory, equivalent to its mainland regions.

Crossings reportedly continued into Friday, with some clashes between migrants and police. Video circulating online showed rocks thrown near border gates and large numbers of young migrants sleeping rough in the streets. Between 300 and 400 people also crossed separately into Melilla.

Diplomatic fallout with Italy

The scale of the breach drew a sharp reaction from Rome. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said her government was weighing “extraordinary measures,” potentially including suspending the open-border Schengen arrangement with Spain — even though the two countries don’t share a land border, meaning Italy would need other EU states to cooperate to make that stick.

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares hit back, accusing his Italian counterpart of using immigration as a political tool and calling the remarks inappropriate for a supposed European partner. He summoned Italy’s ambassador to Madrid on Friday.

Scenes on the ground

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez was due to visit Ceuta on Friday and has promised a swift return to normality. Local leader Juan Jesús Vivas said the enclave’s reception centres were overwhelmed and accused the central government of responding too slowly.

Witnesses told Reuters that Moroccan authorities used water cannon in the border town of Fnideq to try to stop people crossing, while further clashes were reported near the Beni Ansar crossing point into Melilla. Spanish media put Thursday’s crossing figure at between 2,000 and 3,000, though the Guardia Civil has not confirmed exact numbers.

The episode has drawn comparisons to May 2021, when roughly 8,000 migrants entered Ceuta within a few days, triggering a major diplomatic rift between Spain and Morocco. Ceuta and Melilla remain the EU’s only land borders with the African continent, and despite years of increased Spanish surveillance and fencing, crossing attempts have continued.

DSS Charges Five Ansaru Commanders With Terrorism Over Oyo School Abduction

By
Favour Enyosa
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The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed fresh terrorism charges against five convicted members of the Ansaruterrorist group over their alleged involvement in the May 15 attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The suspects appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, where they pleaded not guilty to a six-count amended charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/438/2026. The amended charge was filed on July 29 by DSS counsel, M.E. Ernest.

The defendants listed in the charge are:

  • Mahmud Muhammad, also known as Abu Bara’a or Abbas Mukhtar, whom the DSS identified as the leader of Ansaru.
  • Abubakar Abbas, also known as Isah Adam, Mahmud al-Nigeri or Malam Mamuda, described as the group’s deputy leader and chief of staff.
  • Abdulrazak Umar, also known as Abu Khalifa or Abu Khalid.
  • Yunusa Musa, also known as Yunusa bin Musa.
  • Shamsu Adamu Sani, also known as Abu Itisar.

The latest charges come just days after the same defendants were convicted in separate cases arising from the same incident. On July 20, Justice Emeka Nwite sentenced Muhammad and Abbas to life imprisonment after they pleaded guilty to a 32-count charge. Three days later, Umar, Musa and Sani also received life sentences after admitting their roles in the school abductions.

During Wednesday’s proceedings, DSS counsel Calistus Eze informed Justice Salim Ibrahim that the charge had been amended to include all five defendants. The defence did not oppose the amendment, and the court proceeded with the arraignment. Each of the accused pleaded not guilty to the amended charges.

The prosecution requested that the defendants remain in DSS custody pending trial. Although the defence opposed the application, the court ruled in favour of the prosecution.

Justice Ibrahim ordered that the suspects remain in DSS custody but directed that they be granted unrestricted access to their legal counsel and two family members. He subsequently adjourned the matter until September 25, when the trial is expected to commence.

According to the amended charge filed under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022, the defendants allegedly attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, abducting seven teachers and 39 pupils.

The DSS further alleged that while the victims were in captivity, the attackers killed teacher Michael Oyedokun and circulated a video showing his beheading. Another teacher, John Olaleye, also reportedly died while being held hostage.

The remaining five teachers and all 39 pupils were eventually rescued after spending 56 days in captivity.

Prosecutors also alleged that during negotiations, the abductors demanded the release of Muhammad and Abbas as a condition for the release of the kidnapped victims.

Nigeria, Canada Move Closer To Direct Flights As Air Services Talks Progress

By
Favour Enyosa
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Nigeria and Canada have taken another step toward launching direct flight operations as both countries intensify discussions on expanding bilateral aviation cooperation.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening aviation ties with Canada during a courtesy visit by the Chargé d’Affaires of the High Commission of Canada to Nigeria, David Sproule, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

Sproule was accompanied by the Deputy High Commissioner, Carlos Rojas-Arbulú, and the Trade Commissioner, Funmike Sojinuga.

According to a statement issued by the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, the meeting centred on expanding bilateral air services, with both countries exploring a framework that would facilitate the commencement of direct flights between Nigeria and Canada.

During the meeting, Ambassador Sproule revealed that a senior Canadian delegation is expected in Nigeria during the first week of August to continue diplomatic discussions on the proposed Air Services Agreement and other related matters.

The Canadian envoy also proposed incorporating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) into the broader cooperation framework between both countries to improve the processing and repatriation of Nigerian nationals who are not legally entitled to remain in Canada.

According to him, adopting the proposed SOP would strengthen collaboration on immigration matters and remove one of the remaining obstacles to securing approval for direct flight operations.

Sproule further noted that direct air connectivity could significantly increase passenger traffic, making it important to establish effective immigration enforcement and repatriation procedures in advance.

Responding, Keyamo welcomed the progress toward direct flights, describing the development as long overdue given the strong demand from Nigerian travellers.

He pointed out that thousands of Nigerians travelling to Canada every week currently have to transit through Europe or the United States because there are no direct air connections between the two countries.

The Minister said the Federal Government remains committed to expanding international air routes to improve connectivity, shorten travel time, enhance passenger convenience, and deepen economic and people-to-people relations.

While acknowledging Canada’s concerns about the proposed SOP, Keyamo explained that immigration and deportation matters fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Interior and other relevant government agencies, rather than the Ministry of Aviation.

“The aviation component is one aspect of the discussions, while the immigration-related issues require the involvement of other relevant ministries. We are prepared to facilitate those engagements because if reaching an understanding on the SOP is what is required to move the process forward, then we will ensure the appropriate government institutions are brought into the discussions,” the Minister stated.

Both countries agreed to continue negotiations during a bilateral meeting scheduled for August 6, 2026, where officials are expected to address the remaining issues and work toward a mutually beneficial agreement.

Although Keyamo said he would be unavailable due to prior official engagements, he assured the Canadian delegation that senior ministry officials would represent Nigeria and continue discussions on behalf of the Federal Government.

Police Arrest Osun SSG, Five Others Amid Political Intimidation Claims

By
Favour Enyosa
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The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Teslim Igbalaye, alongside five others during an operation carried out at a property linked to the state official in Osogbo.

According to the police, the operation followed intelligence reports that suspected members of a criminal gang were hiding in the Oroki Estate area of the state capital.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the command disclosed that one of those arrested was Oladele Abiodun, popularly known as “Ashipa,” a suspect reportedly on the police watchlist over alleged involvement in serious crimes, including murder.

The six individuals arrested were identified as Hon. Igbalaye Teslim, 47; Akande Taiwo, 60; Oladele Abiodun, 38; Adeyemo Lukman, 45; Olaoye Muftau, 50; and Aderemi Musliu, 40.

Ojelabi said officers recovered several items from the premises, including ₦4,810,500 in cash, a Dynabook laptop, a photocopy machine, a printer, two voter cards, and a voter register covering Wards 1 to 15.

The police said all recovered items have been secured for forensic analysis and further investigation.

“The operation also led to the arrest of the following suspects: Hon Igbalaye Teslim ‘m’ 47years, One Akande Taiwo ‘m’ 60years, Oladele Abiodun ‘m’ 38years, Adeyemo Lukman ‘m’ 45years, Olaoye Muftau ‘m’ 50years, Aderemi Musliu ‘m’ 40years.

“During the operation, officers recovered exhibits comprising cash sum of four million eight hundred and ten thousand, five hundred naira (N4,810,500), one Dynabook laptop, one photocopy machine, one printer, two Voter’s Cards and a voter register for Wards 1-15.

“These exhibits have been secured and are currently in police custody for detailed forensic examination and further investigation,” the statement said.

The command stated that the discovery of the cash and voter register has raised concerns over possible electoral offences and other criminal activities.

According to the police, investigations are focusing on allegations that may include vote-buying under Section 121 of the Electoral Act, 2022, criminal conspiracy, harbouring or concealing a wanted suspect, as well as any additional offences that may emerge during the investigation.

“The recovery of the cash and the register containing voters’ details raises serious concerns regarding possible electoral offences and other criminal activities.

“While investigations are still ongoing, the facts presently available disclose reasonable grounds to investigate the commission of offences, which may include:

“Bribery of voters (vote-buying), contrary to Section 121 of the Electoral Act, 2022, arising from the alleged distribution of money or other inducements to registered voters for the purpose of influencing their voting decisions.

“Criminal conspiracy, where two or more persons are found to have agreed to commit an unlawful act.

“Harbouring or concealing a wanted criminal, where any individual is found to have knowingly sheltered or assisted a fugitive from justice.

“Any other offences that may be disclosed upon the conclusion of the ongoing investigation,” the police stated.

The command noted that the allegations carry significant implications for public safety, the justice system and the integrity of the electoral process.

Investigators are also working to determine the source and intended use of the recovered funds, identify everyone connected to the seized materials and establish the full scope of any criminal activities.

The police reiterated that no one is above the law, regardless of political office or affiliation, and assured the public that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Residents were urged to remain calm, obey the law and continue providing credible information that could support efforts to combat crime and protect the integrity of the electoral process in the state.

Accord Party Alleges Intimidation

Meanwhile, the Accord Party has condemned the arrests, describing them as acts of intimidation and unlawful detention ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja, the spokesperson for the Imole Campaign Council, Pelumi Olajengbesi, called for the immediate redeployment of the Osun State Commissioner of Police, accusing him of orchestrating what he described as unlawful arrests of Accord Party members.

Olajengbesi alleged that 86 people, including party candidates and government officials, had been arrested.

“In the last two, three days, over 86 members of the Accord Party have been arrested for no reason. These people were arrested and brought by road to Abuja and are being detained here unnecessarily,” he said.

“We have met with the leadership of the police and they cannot provide any explanation to us. There is no petition against them. These people have committed no offence. The Commissioner of Police in Osun State is completely compromised.”

He argued that the arrests could undermine confidence in the forthcoming governorship election and called for a level playing field for all political parties.

“There is a need for us to have a free, impartial election, an election where people can freely express their will. Just now I have been informed the SSG of Osun State has been arrested for no reason because he was sensitising his people about the election,” he added.

The police, however, maintained that the operation was intelligence-driven and conducted in line with their constitutional responsibility to investigate alleged criminal activities without fear or favour.

FIFA Set To Receive First Private Investment Funds By End Of October

By
Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Fifa expects to receive its first cash from a controversial privatisation plan by the end of October, as football’s global governing body pushes ahead despite mounting backlash from member associations and stakeholders.

President Gianni Infantino has proposed setting up a separate entity to manage Fifa’s tournaments, one that would bring in outside investors. All 211 member federations have been given until 19 September to vote on the proposal, which will pass with a simple majority.

A leaked timeline obtained by BBC Sport shows the plan moving fast: investors get access to financial terms in August, confirm investment amounts in September, and finalize agreements and transfer money to Fifa by late October.

Critics say the rushed rollout reflects a broader failure to consult member associations before going public. Uefa has been especially vocal, accusing Fifa of dangling a $20m upfront payment — part of an initial $40m package — as leverage to secure support ahead of the September deadline. The European body’s earlier statement claimed Fifa had “crossed a line.”

Uefa has called an emergency virtual meeting for Thursday afternoon to plot its response. The confederation isn’t alone in its unease — Asian, South American, and North and Central American football bodies have voiced similar concerns, and the FA’s own chair, Debbie Hewitt, says she wasn’t told about the plan in advance despite her role as a Fifa vice-president.

At the center of the deal is Thrive Eternal, an investment vehicle tied to Joshua Kushner — brother-in-law to Ivanka Trump — which would take a 20% stake in Fifa’s competitions.

Former FA and Manchester City chairman David Bernstein has gone furthest, suggesting England should pull out of the World Cup altogether if the plan proceeds. That scenario remains extreme, though it carries weight given that three of this year’s World Cup semi-finalists come from Uefa’s 55 member nations — a mass withdrawal could badly damage the plan’s financial footing. Not every Uefa member is opposed, however; Czech FA president David Trunda said he sees practical upside for his country’s football setup.

Fifa has pushed back with an eight-page defense of the plan, arguing too little of the game’s commercial growth reaches grassroots levels. Infantino says the funding would support pitches, national team development, youth pathways, and women’s football, and in a video statement this week described the proposal as an offer rather than an obligation, insisting investors would have no say over how the World Cup itself is run. Fifa has pointed to first-time qualifiers Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan as evidence its approach is working, while also citing Formula 1 and Europe’s top leagues as models for commercial operations run by dedicated bodies.

The response so far has been largely critical. The European Leagues organization called the plan reckless and divisive, insisting the World Cup isn’t Infantino’s asset to sell. Global players’ union Fifpro urged Fifa to scrap the proposal, warning it would permanently alter the incentives underpinning its competitions. La Liga president Javier Tebas went further, accusing Infantino of using the funding push to buy support ahead of March’s Fifa congress, while Borussia Dortmund president and DFB vice-president Hans-Joachim Watzke called it a direct assault on the sport.

Tinubu, Obasanjo, Otti Call For Unity At Aguiyi-Ironsi’s 60th Memorial

By
Favour Enyosa
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President Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, and other prominent Nigerians have called for renewed commitment to national unity, patriotism and peaceful coexistence as Abia State commemorated the 60th memorial anniversary of Nigeria’s first Military Head of State, Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi.

The appeal was made in Umuahia, Abia State, during a memorial ceremony held in honour of the late military leader, who was assassinated on July 29, 1966. The leaders urged Nigerians to reflect on the lessons of the nation’s history and work together to build a more united, peaceful and prosperous country.

Representing President Tinubu at the event, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), described Aguiyi-Ironsi as a courageous and disciplined military officer who assumed leadership during one of Nigeria’s most difficult periods.

He noted that although the late Head of State’s time in office was short, his commitment to preserving national unity, restoring stability and protecting the country’s territorial integrity remains an example for future generations.

The President said the ideals of patriotism, discipline, integrity and selfless service demonstrated by Aguiyi-Ironsi continue to be relevant to Nigeria’s development and encouraged Nigerians to see the country’s diversity as a source of strength.

He also praised Governor Alex Otti for what he described as visionary leadership and effective governance in Abia State.

Governor Otti said the memorial was not only an opportunity to honour a fallen national leader but also a reminder of the importance of unity, sacrifice and merit in nation-building.

According to him, Aguiyi-Ironsi’s willingness to give his life for the country should inspire both leaders and citizens to prioritise national interest above ethnic or personal considerations.

He added that appointments in his administration are based on competence and integrity rather than state of origin, insisting that Nigeria would benefit more by embracing unity.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Chief of Army Staff General Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd) and former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan described Aguiyi-Ironsi as a patriotic Nigerian whose sacrifice deserves lasting recognition.

They commended the Abia State Government for preserving the nation’s history and encouraged Nigerians to continue promoting peace, unity and selfless service.

Presenting the citation of the late military leader, his daughter, Mrs. Louisa Aguiyi-Ironsi, said the memorial was organised to preserve the legacy of a leader who made the ultimate sacrifice for Nigeria’s unity, rather than reopen old divisions.

She urged present and future leaders to uphold justice, accountability, discipline and the collective good in governance and nation-building.

The event featured prayers and the consecration of Aguiyi-Ironsi’s tomb by the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Umuahia, Most Rev. Michael Kalu Ukpong, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony led by the President’s representative, Governor Alex Otti, representatives of other state governments, Dame Patience Jonathan and other dignitaries.

The ceremony attracted serving and former public office holders, military officers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, members of the diplomatic community and the Aguiyi-Ironsi family, who all paid tribute to the late Head of State’s contributions to national unity and Nigeria’s development.

Eddie Howe Set To Leave Newcastle, Jaissle Lined Up As Replacement

By
Ayomitunde Adeyemi
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Eddie Howe is leaving Newcastle United with immediate effect, bringing an end to his near five-year spell at St James’ Park.

Pressure had been building on the 48-year-old after Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League last season, losing 17 of their 38 matches. His last game in charge was a heavy 4-1 pre-season friendly defeat to Bristol City on Wednesday.

Al-Ahli boss Matthias Jaissle is the frontrunner to take over. Howe arrived at Newcastle in November 2021, just a month after the Saudi Public Investment Fund took control of the club.

Sources suggest Howe was somewhat taken aback by the club’s transfer dealings this summer, even though he understood player sales were necessary. He had initially committed to staying on despite the expected departures, but his stance shifted as the transfer window progressed. As recently as March, chief executive David Hopkinson had said there were no discussions underway about changing manager.

Newcastle spent around £240m on new signings last year, but Howe was reportedly frustrated by Alexander Isak’s move to Liverpool, calling the loss “ever-challenging” back in January and repeatedly pressing for fresh recruitment in press conferences since. This summer has brought further blows, with Sandro Tonali joining Tottenham and Anthony Gordon moving to Barcelona, while Arsenal continue to pursue captain Bruno Guimarães.

Howe took over from Steve Bruce and delivered Newcastle’s first major trophy in 70 years, lifting the 2025 Carabao Cup. He also guided the club to Champions League qualification in both 2023 and 2025, though last season ended in an 8-3 aggregate defeat by Barcelona in the last 16. Their League Cup title defense fell at the semi-final stage, and their league form dropped off sharply after a fifth-place finish the year before.

Across his tenure, Howe won 84 of 179 Premier League games, drawing 38 and losing 57 — more league wins than any other Newcastle manager, and a win rate of 46.9% second only to Kevin Keegan’s club record.

His likely successor, 38-year-old Jaissle, has led Al-Ahli to back-to-back AFC Champions League titles since joining in 2023. A German former defender, he came through Stuttgart’s academy and played for Hoffenheim before a knee injury ended his career at 25, having earned caps at Under-21 level for Germany. He began coaching as an assistant at Danish club Brøndby, then took his first head coaching role at Austrian second-tier side Liefering, before succeeding Jesse Marsch at RB Salzburg in 2021 and winning two Austrian league titles and a domestic cup there.

Joint Security Team Rescues Nine Kidnap Victims, Kills Three Bandits In Kwara Operation

By
Favour Enyosa
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A joint security team has rescued nine kidnapped victims and neutralised three suspected bandits during a coordinated operation in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.

According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman of Ekiti Local Government Council, Prince Dada Sunday, the operation was carried out in the Obbo-Aiyegunle, Ejiu-Ora and Osi axis of Ekiti LGA, which borders Ekiti State and Niger State.

The operation involved Kwara State Forest Guards, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters and vigilantes.

Security sources disclosed that the victims were abducted from Eju community, located beyond the local market, and were being taken through the forest toward Niger State before security operatives intercepted the kidnappers.

One of the rescued victims, Umaru Muazu from Obbo Aiyegunle, said the attack happened at about 4:57 p.m.

“Men came from nowhere and put a gun to my head. Four of them took me and my son. Fear gripped me, and I fell to the ground. They also took my friend’s motorcycle and kidnapped us,” Muazu told reporters.

Another rescued victim, Ibrahim Danga, also from Obbo Aiyegunle, confirmed that they had been held captive for a short period before the security team launched the rescue operation.

A member of the Kwara Forest Guards, Owolabi Adebayo, explained that the operation was intelligence-led and formed part of an ongoing bush-combing exercise.

“We neutralised three of them and rescued nine people. One of the victims is receiving treatment for injuries,” Adebayo said.

He, however, noted that the bandits possessed superior firepower and appealed for additional operational equipment.

“There is no type of firearm that is not in their hand. We need more equipment such as body armor, binoculars, night goggles, walkie-talkies and more ammunition to confront them.”

The Chief Security Officer of Ekiti Local Government Area, Agbemuko Gabriel, praised the forest guards for their swift response and dedication to protecting communities.

“What they did for us two days ago, they are the ones that helped us rescue those people that were kidnapped along Ora-Yetoro axis. They have been doing enough security and intelligence work for us, and we are happy for that,” Gabriel said.

Footage from the operation showed security operatives displaying several motorcycles reportedly recovered from the suspected bandits, while the rescued victims were also presented.

The successful operation comes as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to tackle banditry and kidnapping across the country.

Authorities also disclosed that approval has been granted for the establishment of a new Army battalion in Umaro, Kwara South, to strengthen security operations in the area.

Security agencies said joint patrols and bush-combing operations will continue across Kwara South and neighbouring border communities to curb further attacks on residents and farming communities.

Okonjo-Iweala Urges Nigeria To Deepen Reforms To Unlock Global Trade Opportunities

By
Favour Enyosa
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Nigeria must sustain its ongoing macroeconomic reforms and ensure they translate into job creation and improved living standards if it hopes to take advantage of changing global trade patterns, according to the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

Speaking at the opening of the 7th Africa Emerging Markets Forum in Abuja on Wednesday, Okonjo-Iweala said countries that improve their business environment, maintain macroeconomic stability and attract investment will be better positioned to benefit from the ongoing diversification of global supply chains.

She urged Nigeria to continue implementing broad-based economic reforms while maintaining a balanced approach to fiscal policy, debt management and employment generation, stressing that citizens must begin to experience the practical benefits of the reforms.

“Nigerians have to feel the impact of reforms,” she said, adding that government policies should ultimately improve livelihoods and strengthen the country’s competitiveness.

The WTO Director-General noted that the global economy is gradually reducing its dependence on a few major markets as businesses diversify production locations following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions and supply chain challenges.

She observed that despite growing protectionist rhetoric, about 72 per cent of global trade still operates under WTO rules, highlighting the resilience of the multilateral trading system. She added that many countries are also expanding bilateral and regional trade agreements that go beyond tariff reductions to include broader economic cooperation.

Okonjo-Iweala encouraged African countries to maximise opportunities in green industries and critical minerals, noting that the continent possesses an estimated 30 per cent of the world’s mineral reserves. She urged governments to move beyond exporting raw materials by investing in value addition and greater participation in global value chains.

She also advocated comprehensive reforms of global institutions, including the WTO, warning that increasing fragmentation of global trade could weaken economic growth. Instead, she called for an open, predictable and rules-based trading system capable of supporting export-led growth and protecting economies from domestic shocks.

To attract higher levels of investment, she advised developing countries to strengthen their business climate, improve physical and digital infrastructure, and maintain stable macroeconomic policies.

Okonjo-Iweala further noted that Africa has a unique opportunity to become a major contributor to the future global workforce while expanding South-South trade. However, she stressed that this would require stronger regional cooperation, improved competitiveness and sustained economic reforms.

Also speaking at the forum, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, called on African countries and other emerging economies to take a leading role in shaping the evolving global economic order rather than simply responding to it.

Cardoso said the world economy is undergoing significant transformation and argued that the key challenge for emerging markets is no longer whether to adapt to change but whether they can actively influence the future global system.

He highlighted Africa’s growing workforce, expanding consumer market and vibrant innovation ecosystem as important drivers of long-term growth, while emphasising the need for prudent macroeconomic policies, stronger institutions and deeper regional integration.

Speaking on Nigeria’s economic reforms, the CBN governor said the apex bank has prioritised greater transparency, policy consistency and stronger institutional accountability to rebuild investor confidence and reinforce macroeconomic stability.

According to him, the increasing level of investor interest indicates that the government’s reform agenda is gradually strengthening confidence in Nigeria’s economic outlook.

Cardoso also underscored the importance of international cooperation, noting that no country can effectively tackle today’s interconnected global economic challenges in isolation.

2027 Election: ADC Vows To Protect Its Votes, Says It Won’t Rely Solely On INEC

By
Favour Enyosa
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0

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared that it will not depend solely on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to safeguard votes cast for its candidates in the 2027 general election, revealing that it has developed its own strategy to protect its electoral mandate.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, made this known on Wednesday while speaking to journalists during a sensitisation walk in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital. The event was organised to mobilise residents ahead of the 2027 elections.

Abdullahi said the party’s position was influenced by its experience during the 2023 general election, explaining that although some INEC officials remain committed to conducting credible elections, safeguarding votes should not be based on trust alone.

“We know what INEC is capable of. We trusted the commission during the 2023 general election, but the outcome left us disappointed. We will not make the same mistake again by relying solely on trust,” he said.

The ADC spokesperson stated that the party is determined to ensure that every vote cast in its favour is protected across the country but declined to reveal the specific measures it plans to adopt.

“We are not going to tell you, but that is what we are going to do if we must win this election,” Abdullahi stated.

He also expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu would be defeated in the 2027 presidential election, arguing that the ADC’s commitment to defending its votes would significantly improve its chances at the polls.

According to him, the party has already intensified mobilisation efforts nationwide as part of its preparations for the next general election.

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