Author: Ifetayo Adeniyi

File: Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume. Elegbede Abiodun … praised the church’s network of schools, hospitals, and humanitarian institutions, noting its contributions to education. The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Catholic Church to advance national development, peace, and social cohesion. The pledge was made by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, in a goodwill message delivered to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria during its First Plenary Meeting of 2026 in Abuja on Sunday. This was contained in a statement issued via X by the…

Manny Ita  – The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has raised concerns over a significant increase in fibre-optic cable damage across the country. Reports indicate that incidents rose sharply from just four in December 2025 to 40 in January 2026, with a total of 58 disruptions recorded in the first seven weeks of the year. According to the commission, the majority of these incidents have occurred in Abuja, where ongoing road construction by contractors has been identified as the primary cause. The damage has led to widespread disruptions in banking and internet services, affecting both commercial and residential users. A spokesperson…

Manny Ita  – The Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have formalized a partnership to launch a $50 million Impact Innovation Fund, aimed at fostering innovation and supporting early-stage tech start-ups in Nigeria. Under the agreement signed today, the fund will provide critical equity financing, mentorship, and strategic guidance to promising tech ventures, helping them scale operations, develop innovative solutions, and attract further investment. The initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s technology ecosystem and create high-impact jobs in the country. NSIA officials highlighted that the fund targets start-ups with high growth…

Manny Ita  – The Saudi Arabian government has officially rolled back previous restrictions that barred international companies without regional headquarters in the Kingdom from participating in government-funded projects. The policy shift, confirmed on Saturday, February 21, 2026, is intended to “maintain spending efficiency while ensuring timely execution of strategic projects,” particularly those requiring specialized global expertise. Under the new framework, the Local Content and Government Procurement Authority has begun allowing government entities to submit exception requests via the digital Etimad Platform for firms that have not yet relocated their regional hubs to Saudi territory. ​The decision marks a significant adjustment…

Manny Ita  – The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) and opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have criticized the National Assembly for what they describe as a watering down of the proposed electoral reform bill. The lawmakers, critics say, failed to make real-time electronic transmission of election results fully mandatory, a provision widely viewed as essential for transparency and credibility in the electoral process. CBCN officials stated that the partial adoption of electronic transmission undermines public trust and leaves room for manipulation. “Elections must be conducted in a manner that citizens can see and verify results in…

Manny Ita  – Nigerian Army forces attached to Operation Hadin Kai neutralized five insurgents and rescued three abducted children during a series of intense weekend encounters across Borno State, military sources confirmed on Monday. The operations, which targeted known extremist strongholds, also resulted in the death of one soldier during a separate attempt by militants to breach a military outpost. ​The primary engagement occurred during a clearance operation in the rugged terrain of the Mandara Mountains near Gwoza. Troops intercepted a group of fighters suspected to be remnants of Boko Haram, leading to a heavy exchange of fire. “Five terrorists…

Manny Ita  – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has indicated that it will challenge the outcome of the recent electoral sweep by the ruling party in court, alleging widespread irregularities during the polls. Party officials said preparations are underway to file a formal petition seeking judicial review of the results. In a related development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) confirmed the arrest of 20 individuals in connection with alleged vote-buying and other electoral offences. According to the anti-graft agency, the suspects were apprehended during coordinated operations aimed at curbing financial inducement of voters and manipulation of the electoral…

Manny Ita  – Nigeria has won a $6.2 million arbitration case against UK-based technology company European Dynamics UK Ltd, a decision that has saved the country an estimated ₦9.3 billion in potential liabilities. Officials said the ruling followed a protracted dispute between the federal government and the firm over contractual obligations linked to a technology project. The arbitration panel dismissed the claims brought against Nigeria, effectively shielding public funds from payment. Government representatives described the outcome as a significant legal success, noting that it underscores the country’s resolve to defend its interests in international commercial disputes. The victory also prevents…

Manny Ita  – Nigeria’s digital economy stands at a troubling crossroads. On one hand, it is powered by one of Africa’s most vibrant youth populations, a booming fintech sector, and global cultural influence. On the other, it is persistently shadowed by cybercrime, online fraud, and a growing reputation problem that increasingly affects legitimate citizens and businesses. The daily reality on Nigerian internet spaces is stark: scammers operate with alarming boldness, hijacking social media accounts, cloning business profiles, and deceiving unsuspecting victims at home and abroad — often with little immediate consequence. A particularly disturbing tactic involves impersonation and reputational laundering.…

Manny Ita  – Eberechi Eze scored twice as Arsenal defeated Tottenham Hotspur in the north London derby, equalling the scoring records in the fixture set by former Gunners strikers Thierry Henry and Robin van Persie. The England international, who netted a hat-trick in the reverse meeting earlier this season, now has five goals in two league appearances against Spurs in an Arsenal shirt, matching the tallies of both club legends. Only Robert Pires, with seven goals, and Emmanuel Adebayor have scored more for Arsenal in the derby. Eze’s latest performance helped Mikel Arteta’s side restore a five-point lead at the…