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Governor Soludo Backs President Tinubu’s Reforms, Urges Regional Co-operation

Bilkisu Halilu Pai
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Governor Soludo Backs President Tinubu’s Reforms, Urges Regional Co-operation

Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo has  praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as “cerebral, courageous and patriotic” efforts to rebuild Nigeria, urging greater regional cooperation with the federal government.

Soludo cited ongoing infrastructure projects such as the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway and the Second Niger Bridge corridor as evidence of progress, while calling for fuller inclusion of the South-East in national development plans, including gas, rail and port infrastructures.

The governor made these remarks during his second-term inauguration at Dr Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the state capital, framing engagement, not isolation as the pathway to relevance and development.

In a speech that blended reflection with forward-looking political messaging, Soludo, who was sworn in for a second term alongside his deputy, Onyekachukwu Ibezim, warned against what he termed the historic “waste” of electoral influence in the South-East, calling instead for strategic coalition-building across Nigeria.

He argued that in a democracy, political outcomes are shaped by organisation and bargaining power rather than sentiment, stressing the need for alliances that can advance equity, restructuring and inclusive growth.

Ex Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Olusegun Obasanjo at the inauguration of Governor Charles Soludo second term in office in Awka, Anambra State

According to him, the region must move beyond protest politics and reposition itself as an active participant in shaping national outcomes.

The governor painted a sobering picture of the South-East’s current trajectory, attributing its underperformance partly to internal divisions and prolonged instability.

He questioned the real impact of past political representation at the highest levels, arguing that elite access to power has not consistently translated into broad-based development.

While acknowledging the symbolic importance of national offices, he maintained that structural transformation, economic revitalisation and social stability are far more critical to improving everyday life.

He also rejected violent agitation as “self-annihilating,” calling instead for healing, unity and a new development-focused narrative for the region.

Read Also: Anambra Governor Hails President Tinubu’s Courage, Begins Second Term

Anambra Governor Takes Oath for Second Term

Anambra’s Transformation 

Soludo further outlined an ambitious vision for Anambra’s transformation into a globally competitive economic hub, driven by infrastructure renewal, human capital development and technology-led growth.

Reflecting on his first term, he noted that his administration prioritised urgent reforms from day one beginning with interventions in underserved communities and has since delivered the majority of its campaign promises.

He pledged to consolidate these gains in his second term, emphasising that governance must now take precedence over politics.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented the president at the ceremony, praised Soludo’s leadership style and intellectual contributions to national discourse, describing him as a courageous democrat committed to public good.

He noted that the governor’s willingness to offer practical solutions and constructive criticism has helped strengthen Nigeria’s political, economic and social institutions.

Shettima added that Soludo’s re-election reflects the confidence and trust of the people, stressing that his second term presents an opportunity to consolidate reforms and deepen development outcomes.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s readiness to partner with Anambra State, emphasizing that effective governance must prioritise citizens’ welfare above partisan considerations while advancing national unity and growth.

Highlights of the ceremony included the administration of the Oath of Office and Oath of Allegiance on the governor and his deputy by the Chief Judge of Anambra State, Onochie Anyachebelu, formally cementing their tenure until 2030.

The event also featured a ceremonial parade and its inspection by Governor Soludo.

‘Love and New Notes’ Emerges Top Year’s Grossing Movie

Felicia Koko
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‘Love and New Notes’ Emerges Top Year’s Grossing Movie

‘Love and New Notes’ has emerged as the highest grossing release of the year in West Africa, earning N293.1 million at the box office.

The movie which is distributed by FilmOne Entertainment, achieved the milestone within weeks of its release, attracting significant turnout across West Africa.

In a statement shared on its Instagram page, the distributors expressed appreciation for the support, describing the feat as another major moment for the industry.

”West Africa, thank you for showing this film so much love,” the company said.

It noted that the movie continued to enjoy steady patronage in cinemas.

READ ALSO: Nollywood’s ‘Behind The Scenes’ Tops UK, Ireland Charts

 Nollywood Movie To Premiere At Pan-African Film Festival

‘Love & Notes’ is a movie centered on the themes of love, relationships and emotional connection while resonating with a wide audience demographic.

With its current box office success and ongoing nationwide screenings, the film is expected to sustain momentum in the coming week.

 

NAN

Nollywood’s ‘Behind The Scenes’ Tops UK, Ireland Charts

Felicia Koko
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Nollywood’s ‘Behind The Scenes’ Tops UK, Ireland Charts

Nollywood’s Behind the Scenes has recorded a major international milestone, emerging as the highest-grossing Nollywood release in Ireland and the UK, with earnings of £159,000.

The movie, distributed by FilmOne Entertainment also achieved significant commercial success at the domestic box office grossing N2.7 billion to become one of Nollywood’s biggest titles of all time.

In a post shared on its Instagram page, the distributor described the achievement as a record breaking run and a defining moment for African cinema.

”A record-breaking run. A defining moment for African cinema,” the company said, adding that the film continues to attract audiences across multiple regions.

READ ALSO: Women Filmakers Take Spotlight At Nollywood in Hollywood 2026

‘Behind The Scenes’ explores themes around fame, success and the hidden emotional realities behind public admiration.

The film’s success extends beyond West Africa with growing viewership reported across international markets, further reinforcing Nollywood’s expanding global footprint.

 

NAN

NYSC Seeks Stakeholders’ Mentorship for Corps Members 

Kamila Bello
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NYSC Seeks Stakeholders’ Mentorship for Corps Members 

The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has urged corps employers in the country to positively mentor corps members serving in their establishments, noting that this would help them become responsible leaders.

The Director-General gave this advice when he played host to the Director-General of the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and his team at his office in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

The SEC team was at the NYSC headquarters to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the scheme on financial literacy for corps members.

General Nafiu commended the initiatives and leadership style of the SEC Director-General since assuming office, noting that it has transformed the landscape of the Nigerian capital market and improved public trust.

He expressed the scheme’s readiness to partner with the SEC, adding that the collaboration between both agencies would benefit corps members, the NYSC, and the public at large.

In his words, “The way you relate with them, build, and mentor them will greatly impact their future and the nation.

“They are ready, resilient, and committed young Nigerians who require mentorship. When you take good care of them, they will reciprocate.”

Speaking earlier, the Director-General of the SEC, Dr Emomotimi Agama, lauded the immense role of the NYSC in national unity, integration, and socio-economic development.

He said the relevance of the scheme, through the deployment of corps members to the nooks and crannies of the country, has given it a nationwide spread that is unmatched by any agency.

The SEC boss added that there is a need to expose corps members to financial education and financial independence, which would benefit them as they grow and assume leadership roles in their endeavours.

He also said corps members are great assets who can effectively pass the message of financial literacy to grassroots residents.

“The essence of the NYSC cannot be overemphasised in terms of culture, association, networking, and future relations,” he added.

Emomotimi, who reminisced about his youth service year, expressed delight at the collaboration between both agencies.

 

Kano Suspends Key Festivities, Tightens Security Ahead of Sallah

Felicia Koko
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Kano Suspends Key Festivities, Tightens Security Ahead of Sallah

The Kano State Government has announced strict guidelines for the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr Durbar celebrations, citing security concerns and intelligence reports of planned disruptions during the festive period.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the government said the measures were taken following credible reports received by the State Security Council about attempts by some individuals to instigate unrest.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Kano’s rich cultural heritage but stressed that maintaining peace, law, and order remains its top priority.

Waiya noted that, as part of the new directives, the traditional Hawan Idi (Eid Durbar) will proceed under the leadership of His Highness, Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II.

“The procession will commence from Kofar Mata Eid Praying Ground and pass through designated routes to Gidan Shettima, ending at Kofar Fatalwa within the Emir’s Palace.”

However, several key Durbar activities have been either modified or suspended.

READ ALSO: Nigerian Army, Community Leaders Strengthen Collaboration in Kano

Waiya announced that, the Hawan Nasarawa will be held in a modified format without horse riding, while Hawan Daushe, Hawan Fanisau, and Hawan Dorayi have been suspended entirely in the interest of public safety.

The government said the decisions were reached after consultations with the Kano Emirate Council and other stakeholders.

Waiya explained that security agencies have been directed to intensify surveillance and ensure strict compliance with the new guidelines.

“Authorities also warned that necessary legal action would be taken against anyone found attempting to disrupt the peace,” he said.

Residents have been urged to remain calm, law-abiding, and cooperative with security operatives, while avoiding the spread of unverified information.

The Kano State Government expressed appreciation to security agencies for their continued efforts in maintaining stability and assured citizens of a peaceful and hitch-free Sallah celebration.

It also extended warm wishes to Muslims across the state for a joyous Eid-el-Fitr.

Anambra Opens Drug Rehabilitation Centre to Tackle Addiction

Chidimma Anikwenze
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Anambra Opens Drug Rehabilitation Centre to Tackle Addiction

The Anambra State Government in south-eastern Nigeria has inaugurated a new rehabilitation facility for recovering drug users at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH) in Awka, marking a notable step in efforts to address substance misuse and its associated health risks.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, urged healthcare workers to uphold high standards of professionalism in the care of patients undergoing treatment.

He emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring that individuals battling addiction receive comprehensive care and are supported in reintegrating into society.

According to him, drug dependency often exposes users to serious health complications, including infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis, largely due to high-risk behaviours such as needle sharing and unsafe sexual practices. He noted that the new centre is designed to address both the medical and social dimensions of addiction recovery.

The facility will implement Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT), a globally recognised treatment approach that uses controlled medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce dependence on illicit substances.

The State HIV Coordinator, Dr Tonia Mbagwu, explained that patients will be treated with regulated opioid substitutes such as methadone, alongside counselling and other support services, to help them gradually overcome addiction.

The initiative is supported by the Global Fund, with implementation assistance from the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria. It forms part of a broader intervention being rolled out across several Nigerian states, including Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe and Kwara.

Officials say the new centre complements existing rehabilitation services in the state, such as the Solution Rehabilitation Centre in Nibo, and reflects a growing recognition of addiction as a public health issue requiring structured treatment and long-term support.

Senior health officials, including Permanent Secretary Dr Obiageli Uchebo and Director of Public Health Dr Afam Aneme, attended the inauguration.

Stakeholders Urge Holistic Inclusion in 2026 Tax Reform

Kamila Bello
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Stakeholders Urge Holistic Inclusion in 2026 Tax Reform

Panelists at the Purple Book unveiling by the Policy Innovation Centre in Abuja have called for the deliberate inclusion of women, youth, and informal workers in Nigeria’s 2026 tax reform.

Focusing on the theme: “Who Gains, Who Pays? Centering Women, Youth, and Informal Workers in Nigeria’s 2026 Tax Reform” Patricia Chinwe Ofili-Ikpeazu of the Nigeria Revenue Service said, “Young entrepreneurs stand to benefit from reforms such as VAT credits, but raised the challenge of low awareness.

“Do they really even know what the VAT credit is? the answer is no,” she said.

She noted that without proper invoicing and documentation, many in the informal and youth-driven sectors risk exclusion from these benefits and spotlighted the advocacy effort of the Nigeria Revenue Service.

“We go out to plazas, a majority of them are in the informal sector, we educate them to keep proper documentation… without proper invoicing, there will be no VAT credit.

“We are no longer doing tax by enforcement, we are doing tax by partnership,” Ofili-Ikpeazu affirmed.

On whether the reforms are truly inclusive, Iniobong Usen of the International Budget Partnership stressed the need for systems that track who benefits, who bears the burden and the need to fund the Ombuds office.

“And so the Office of the Tax Ombuds, for it to be able to maintain that level of autonomy, independence, needs to be properly funded and this should translate into the number of cases that has been resolved, whether in favour of the taxpayer or not,” he said.

He warned that without disaggregated data, women’s contributions and burdens may remain invisible.

“Sometimes the data is gender-blind… and so when tax policy is being formulated… it doesn’t take into account the specific contribution on the needs of women.”

Addressing the burden side, Esther Ogugua of the Society of Women in Taxation highlighted how informal women workers disproportionately bear multiple levies.

“We have to understand that it’s basically bringing all the multiple taxes, levies, into a more single defined framework that can easily ensure that gender pattern enforcement is well coordinated as far as the informal sector is concerned, the women in the market, they face a lot of these multiple charges, multiple levies,” she said.

She explained that harmonisation and digitalisation would reduce arbitrary enforcement and ensure fairness in tax administration.

“When we are talking about this harmonisation, we’re not just only talking about making sure that this tax works, but also ensuring that everyone, especially the women, that is the major contributor, as far as these multiple levels are concerned, also benefit from what they are contributing, as far as the task budget is concerned.”

In closing, the moderator Femi Obidare steered consensus around shared responsibility across all levels of government.

The panel concluded that answering who gains and who pays requires not just policy reform, but inclusive implementation that visibly benefits women, youth and informal sector participants.

NDDC Debuts at CSW70, Targets Women Empowerment Gaps

Oluwasola Akintonde
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NDDC Debuts at CSW70, Targets Women Empowerment Gaps

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) making its first appearance at the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women, has positioned itself to identify and close critical gaps in women’s empowerment across Nigeria’s oil-rich region through strategic partnerships, funding, and leadership inclusion.

NDDC Director of Culture and Women Affairs, Mrs. Ahunna Imoni, speaking at a side event organised by the Commission, described the outing as historic.

“It may interest you to know that we only knew about this programme two days to the close of registration. This is to present a historic milestone for NDDC,” she said.

She added: “We are here to learn. We are here to interact. We are here to network… Let us know the gaps there is. Let us see where we can intervene to bridge the gap.”

On interventions, Imoni stated: “More than 600 women across nine states… were trained. The Commission has also supported agricultural empowerment programs and introduced programs encouraging women’s participation in technical and industrial skills” she said. “The Commission approved release of N5 billion aimed at strengthening women and youth-led enterprises. About 18 women NGOs have received their export licenses.”

Nigeria’s UN Chargé d’Affaires, Syndoph Endoni, underscored the collaboration saying “Partnership is the order of the day. When you build a woman, you build a community.”

Abia State First Lady, Priscilla Otti, noted that: “We also benefit from NDDC Niger Delta Project… so many women have appointments there.”

Former Permanent Secretary, Timiebi Koripamo-Agary, highlighted progress: “For the first time in over 25 years, women lead key directorates in NDDC… This is historic progress for sustainable development.”

Also, Awwal Musa Rafsanjani from Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre added: “Sustainable opportunities mean gender equality as integral to development.”

Global partners also echoed support. Olamide Davis Talabi said: “Sister City Relationships is an open doors to investment… for mutual growth and resilience,” while Ambassador Nesencia Walker noted: “Nigeria has the potential to become one of the top three countries in the economy by 2050.”

Health and diaspora voices, including Dr. Zainab Kwaru and Mrs. Fatima Jidda, stressed targeted healthcare and global linkages for women.

The dialogue reinforced a unified call for inclusive policies, partnerships, and sustained investment to advance women’s leadership and economic participation in the Niger Delta.

Foreign Investors Laud Nigeria’s Financial Sector Reforms

Oluwasola Akintonde
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Foreign Investors Laud Nigeria’s Financial Sector Reforms

Global investors and development partners have commended Nigeria’s ongoing financial sector reforms, describing them as credible and impactful in restoring confidence in the country’s economy.

The commendation came at the Africa Capital Forum themed “From Stabilisation to Capital Mobilisation,” jointly hosted by Nigeria and the UK in London. The event was held on the sidelines of the state visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the United Kingdom.

Speaking at the high-level forum, which brought together global investors, development financiers, and fintech innovators for a strategic dialogue to deepen Nigeria’s financial resilience and investor confidence, the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Jonny Baxter, said the United Kingdom remained one of Nigeria’s partners with links in banking and capital markets.

“The next phase of the reforms should be converting renewed investor interest into long-term sustainable investments,” Baxter said, adding that the UK will also support economic transformation to enhance the economic relationship between the two countries.

Nigeria’s Economic Stabilisation

In her remarks, the President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Madame Odile Renaud-Basso, praised the potential of the Nigerian economy, noting that “we see all the potential in the economic stabilisation in Nigeria, the growth of the population, the appetite, the investment of new technologies, and the ability of the people to embrace the new technologies.”

The Head of West and Central Africa, UKEF, Steve Gray, in his contribution, noted that “Confidence is built through full fiscal transparency. But the reforms in Nigeria are providing transparency and building confidence.

“I want to see more reflection of the reality of Nigeria’s strengths so that more can be done to support Nigeria’s priorities,” Gray added.

Also speaking, the Managing Director (Policy Strategy and Delivery) of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Melis Ekmen Tabojer, said: “The recent reforms that Nigeria has had have had a huge impact in attracting investors and how policies are made.”

The Special Adviser to the President on Finance and the Economy, who represented the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, at the event, said the Nigerian government seeks to drive the right quality of growth, but noted that the government alone cannot fund this growth. “We need to work with partners who will bring the sticky, equity capital,” she noted.

Key sessions of the forum featuring the CBN Deputy Governors Dr. Muhammad Sani Abdullahi (Economic Policy) and Mr. Philip Ikeazor (Financial System Stability) among other subject matter experts, examined repricing risk and the reopening of capital markets, Nigerian banks presence on the global stage, Fintech and the future of remittances, highlighting the rise of digital platforms, as well as regulation, risk, and resilience.

Falling Inflation 

The Central Bank Deputy Governor (Economic Policy), Dr Muhammad Sani Abdullahi, emphasised the level of stability achieved by the CBN, noting that net and gross reserves are high, foreign reserves are over $50bn, the foreign exchange market has stabilised, and inflation is falling, but we are cautious.

Also speaking, the Bank’s Deputy Governor in charge of Financial System Stability, Mr Philip Ikeazor, said that all the reforms that have been put in place are such that they cut across stakeholders, ensuring that even at the end of this particular administration, people will see the need not to reverse these reforms.

In their respective interventions, Segun Alebiosu (MD/CEO of First Bank); Oliver Alawuba (MD/CEO of the United Bank for Africa (UBA); Miriam Olusanya (MD/CEO of GTCO); Yemisi Edun (MD/CEO of First City Monument Bank); Roosevelt Ogbonna (MD/CEO of Access Bank); and Akin Oguranti, the Executive Director of Zenith Bank, who represented the bank’s Managing Director, all commended the banking reforms in Nigeria, noting that the reforms have increased confidence in the economy and allowed the banks to fund more projects locally.

Over the past two years, Nigeria has undertaken significant monetary and structural reforms aimed at stabilising its macroeconomic environment.

Under the leadership of CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso, inflation has dropped sharply from 34 per cent to 15 per cent, exchange rate volatility has eased, and foreign reserves have risen above US $50 billion.

Banking recapitalisation and foreign exchange market unification have further strengthened trust in policy consistency.

The Forum assessed the impact of these reforms and highlighted new opportunities for long-term capital mobilisation and diaspora investment.

Framed around three pillars (Nigeria’s macroeconomic reset, strengthening the financial system, and mobilising global and diaspora capital), the Africa Capital Forum seeks to build stronger bridges among Abuja, London, and the global financial community.

Nigerian Air Force Decimates Terrorists Hideouts in Borno 

Kamila Bello
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0
Nigerian Air Force Decimates Terrorists Hideouts in Borno 

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Air Component, operating under joint task force of Operation HADIN KAI, has recorded another operational success following a precision air interdiction mission conducted against terrorist hideouts at Abirma, a confirmed insurgent enclave in the southern axis of the Lake Chad region of Borno State, on 17 March 2026.

In a statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodome disclosed that the operation was executed based on credible Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), which confirmed the active presence of terrorist fighters within the settlement.

Subsequent aerial observation revealed insurgent movements around concealed structures deliberately hidden under dense vegetation, a tactic frequently employed to evade detection.

Following positive target identification and rigorous verification in line with established operational procedures, NAF air assets executed precision strikes on the identified locations.

The targets were engaged with precision munitions, resulting in the destruction of multiple terrorist structures and the disruption of their activities in the area.

Preliminary Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) indicates that the strikes significantly degraded the terrorists’ capacity to utilise the location as a staging ground for attacks across the Lake Chad Basin.

In a related development, NAF air assets, in close coordination with Nigerian Army troops, neutralised several terrorists during a foiled infiltration attempt at Malam Fatori in Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State in the early hours of 18 March 2026.

The joint response successfully prevented the insurgents from breaching defensive positions, thereby reinforcing ongoing efforts to stabilise the border communities.

These operations underscore the Nigerian Air Force’s sustained reliance on intelligence-driven precision air power as part of broader joint force efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and support ground operations aimed at restoring lasting peace and normalcy in the North East.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, reassured Nigerians that sustained air operations across multiple theatres remain focused on protecting innocent lives, safeguarding communities, and denying terrorist and criminal elements the freedom to operate anywhere within the country.

He emphasised that the Service remains committed to executing its missions professionally, with strict adherence to rules of engagement and internationally recognised standards in civilian harm mitigation.

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