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Court Orders Permanent forfeiture Of $49, 700 Recovered From Ex-INEC Commissioner

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Court Orders Permanent forfeiture Of $49, 700 Recovered From Ex-INEC Commissioner

The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, ordered the permanent forfeiture of 49, 700. dollars allegedly recovered from Dr Nura Ali, former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), for Sokoto State in the 2023 general elections.

Justice Emeka Nwite gave the order after Osuobeni Akponimisingha, counsel to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), moved a motion to the effect.

Akponimisingha, while moving the application told the court that th ICPC had complied with the earlier interim order made by the court for temporary forfeiture of the money.

The lawyer said a publication was made for interested person(s) to show cause why the recovered funds should not be forfeited permanently to the Federal Government as directed by the court.

He, however, said that no interested person had shown up since the day of the publication and neither was any interested person represented in court today.

“We, therefore, seek an order forfeiting the sum of $49, 700 US dollars to the Federal Government in view of the processes filed in respect of this matter from interim forfeiture to this stage my lord,” he said.

Delivering the ruling, Justice Nwite held that the application by the lawyer was meritorious.

“I have listened to the submission of the learner counsel to applicant and I have also gone through the affidavit evidence.

“I am of the view that the application is meritorious.

“Consequently, the application is granted,” the judge ruled.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Justice Nwite had, on Dec. 30, 2024, ordered the temporary forfeiture of the seized funds, after the lawyer moved the ex-parte motion.

While the Federal Republic of Nigeria (FRN) was the applicant, Ali was the sole respondent in the motion ex-parte marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1846/2024.

The motion, dated Dec. 20, 2024 and filed Dec. 24, 2024, was jointly filed by the ICPC and the Department of State Service (DSS).

Mr Usman Dauda, the Director of Legal, signed the application on DSS’ behalf, and Akponimisingha, Assistant Chief Legal Officer in ICPC, was part of the legal team that drafted the process.

The motion sought an order of the court temporarily forfeiting the sum of $49,700.00 (forty-nine thousand, seven hundred dollars), “recovered from one Dr. Nura Ali during a search operation by the Federal Government of Nigeria being property suspected to be proceed of an unlawful activity.”

It also sought an order directing the applicant i.e., the FRN, through the ICPC and the DSS, to jointly conduct a thorough preliminary investigation into the alleged unlawful activities of Ali, in respect of the moveable property sought to be forfeited and make a report to the court within 90 days.

It sought an order directing the applicant i.e., FRN, through the ICPC and the DSS, to deposit the 49,700.00 dollars in an escrow account with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The application equally sought an order directing the applicant to publish a notice in any national newspaper calling for persons whether, human, juristic or artificial, having Interest in the money to show cause why it should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

Giving nine grounds why the application should be granted, the applicant said the victim of the alleged crime was the Federal Government of Nigeria and innocent taxpayers which include judges of courts across the country.

It said the money was recovered during a search operation by operatives of the DSS at the residence of Ali.

“The alleged moveable property of $49,700.00 was bribe money received by Dr Nura Ali when he was the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Resident Electoral Commissioner for Sokoto State.

“The alleged moveable property is not the legitimate earning of Dr Ali as independent National Electoral Commission’s Resident Electoral Commissioner.

“The alleged moveable property is suspected to be proceed of crime,” it said.

The applicant argued that INEC does not pay its staff members with United States Dollar as salaries or allowances.

It said the essence of the application was not to compulsorily acquire the alleged moveable property from the alleged owner, but to preserve the property from dissipation.

It said if the court grants the reliefs sought, interested persons including the alleged owner will be given opportunity to offer an explanation as to the legitimacy of the alleged property.

“Where cogent and verifiable explanation exists as to how the property was acquired, devoid of crime, the alleged owner or any other person having proprietary interest in the property will be allowed unrestricted possession of the property.

“This application is not in conflict with the provisions of Sections 43 and 44 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) which guarantee the rights of citizens of Nigeria to acquire and own immoveable and moveable properties in any part of Nigeria,” it said.

It would be recalled that Akponimisingha, who appeared for the FRN, had told the court that the motion ex-parte prayed the court for four orders.

The lawyer said four exhibits were attached to the motion, including Exhibit DSS 1 to Exhibit DSS 4.

He urged the court to grant the application in the interest of justice.

He said a search was conducted in Ali’s residence in Kano and the sum of 49, 700, 000 US dollars was retrieved from the building.

He told the court that Ali allegedly said that the sum of $150, 000 US dollars was given to him by the former Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, and Sen. Aliyu Wamakko.

The ICPC lawyer, who alleged that Ali made this disclosure in his extra-judicial statement to the DSS, said the former REC also wrote a letter to the security outfit in the bid to reclaim the money.

He insisted that INEC does not pay his workers or RECs in dollars.

Also in the affidavit in support of the motion ex-parte deposed to by Iliya Markus, a litigation officer with ICPC, he said that Akponimisingha informed him that he read through the case file and comprehended facts forming the allegations leading to the execution of search warrant by operatives of the DSS at Ali’s residence.

Markus said the DSS received an intelligence report on Dr Ali on allegations of bribery received from stakeholders, i.e politicians in the course of his official duties as INEC REC in charge of Sokoto State.

He said the intelligence report was processed and residence of Ali in Kano was searched pursuant to a search warrant executed jointly by operatives of the ICPC and DSS.

“A copy of the search warrant is hereby attached and marked as exhibit DSS 1,” he said.

The officer said in the course of the execution of the search warrant, the sum of $47,000.00 was recovered from the house.

According to him, Dr Ali also made statement(s) with respect to the search on his residence and the subsequent recovery of the alleged $49,700.00.

“A copy of the said extra-judicial statement is hereby attached and marked as exhibit DSS 2,” he said.

He said invitation letters had been written to invite persons he claimed gifted him the alleged $49,700.00.

“I also know as a fact that Dr Nura Ali did not report the gift of the alleged $49,700.00 to any law enforcement agency as required by extant laws of the land.

“Dr Ali had in the past written letters to the State Security Services requesting for release of the alleged $49,700.00 bribe money to him.

“Copies of the said letters are hereby attached and marked as exhibits DSS 3 & 4 respectively,” he said.

Markus said the investigation was yet to be concluded, hence, the need for the 90 days’ application.

Justice Nwite, who said that the application was meritorious, granted the prayers then.

The judge adjourned the matter until Jan. 30, 2025 for report of compliance on the publication in the media and adjourned until March 31, 2025, for hearing of the matter.

Why Army Is Prioritising Transformational Leadership Training – COAS

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Why Army Is Prioritising Transformational Leadership Training – COAS

The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to continuous transformational leadership training for its junior and middle cadres, describing it as a vital component of combat effectiveness both on the battlefield and in other operations.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, stated this on Wednesday at the Army Seminar on Transformational Leadership organised by the Department of Transformation and Innovation, held at the 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Sokoto.

Oluyede was represented by Maj.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Operation Hadarin Daji.

According to the COAS, the Nigerian Army places strong emphasis on leadership development and effective followership at the tactical level — where battles and engagements are planned and executed to achieve operational objectives.

Oluyede added that the seminar targeted junior and middle cadre personnel, underscoring the importance of leadership as a key driver of combat power and overall military effectiveness.

He noted that the seminar comes at a critical time, given the diverse security challenges comprising terrorism, insurgency, banditry and others confronting the nation.
The COAS highlighted the need for junior and middle cadre leaders with strong character, unwavering commitment, and the capacity to think quickly and make sound decisions.
“It is at this level that we have you participants, as frontline commanders, who have it as a duty to lead men, sustain their moral, continually motivate them and maintain their fighting spirit in the most lethal and demanding environment of any battlefield.
” Nigerian Army continue to review its tactics, techniques and procedures to develop both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies aimed at defeating its adversaries.
“The seminar is therefore, premised on the need to improve the Nigerian Army’s capacity in advancing its transformational leadership drive, ” he said.
He explained that operational outcomes served as the foundation upon which officials broader strategic objectives were achieved.
According to him, military formations and units are positioned at the forefront of the ongoing efforts to restore peace and security in respective areas of operations, adding that good leadership capabilities was uttermost important.
“As young leaders, in our army, it is crucial that you are not only skilled in carrying out your duties but also possess the right attitude and leadership qualities to guide our troops on the frontiers to achieve our goals in line with our constitutional responsibilities.
“As you are all aware, leadership is the most essential component of combat power on the battlefield and the military cannot function without it.
“Therefore, every opportunity must be seized to learn and improve in
this area, ” he said.
Oluyede implored the participants to take the seminar seriously, share knowledge, expectations, experiences and remarkable resilience, while applauding their loyalty and performance within Area of Responsibility.
He urged them to uphold professionalism and excellent leadership skills for effective discharge of duties.
He assured them that the Army headquarters would continue to provide the resources, and direction required to perform their roles.
The COAS reiterated the Army’s unwavering commitment to President Bola Tinubu for his invaluable support in enhancing the success of its various operations.
“We must do well on our part, to justify these resources and goodwill by consistently executing all assigned tasks swifty and in the most efficient and professional manner.
The COAS appreciated the seasoned resource persons, “who have sacrificed their time to be here with us, to rub minds and share their knowledge and experiences during the deliberations.
“I am confident that your presence at this seminar will be of immense benefit to the participants and Nigerian Arny at large,” Oluyede said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chief of Transformation and Innovation Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Olusegun Abai, said the seminar was designed to enhance leadership for improved regimentation, discipline and combat efficiency.
Abai, represented by Director Innovation, Brig.-Gen. Muhammad Usman, said the seminar was aimed at improving efficiency and addressing negative impact of substance abuse along with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) on operational efficiency.
He noted that the initiative aligned with the command philosophy of the COAS, focusing on transformation through effective leadership, sound administration, professionalism and combat readiness.
He urged the participants to be open minded and contribute positively to make the seminar worthwhile.
The theme of the one-day seminar is ” Building the Leadership Capacity of Junior and Mid-Cadre Commanders; Effects of PTSD on Operational Effectiveness and Effect of Drug and Substance Abuse on Combat Readiness in Nigerian Army.”

Import Licence Dispute: Court Adjourns Dangote Refinery’s N100bn Suit Against NNPCL, Others To Nov. 5

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Import Licence Dispute: Court Adjourns Dangote Refinery’s N100bn Suit Against NNPCL, Others To Nov. 5

The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, adjourned a suit filed by Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE against Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and others over oil import licence dispute until Nov. 5 for hearing.

The matter, which was earlier fixed for today for hearing, could not proceed due to the absence of Justice Mohammed Umar in court.

Justice Umar, the presiding judge, was said to be sitting at Enugu division of the court.

The court subsequently fixed Nov. 5 for the hearing of the suit.

The Atlantic Bell reports that the judge had, on July 10, ordered parties in the case to regularise their processes ahead of the hearing of the suit.

Justice Umar also ordered that hearing notices be issued and served on the defendants that were not in court.

The suit, which was formerly before Justice Inyang Ekwo, began denovo (afresh) following its reassignment to Justice Umar.

Dangote Refinery had sued the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) as 1st and 2nd defendants.

Also joined in the suit are AYM Shafa Limited, A. A. Rano Limited, T. Time Petroleum Limited, 2015 Petroleum Limited, and Matrix Petroleum Services Limited as 3rd to 7th defendants respectively.

The oil company, through its lawyer, Ogwu Onoja, SAN, prayed the court to nullify import licences issued by NMDPRA to the NNPCL and the five other companies for the purpose of importing refined petroleum products.

NAN reports that Dangote Refinery (plaintiff) also prayed the court to declare that NMDPRA was in violation of Sections 317(8) and (9) of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) by issuing licenses for the importation of petroleum products.

It stated that such licenses should only be issued in circumstances where there is a petroleum product shortfall.

It equally sought a N100 billion in damages against NMDPRA for allegedly continuing to issue import licences to NNPCL and the five companies for importing petroleum products, among other reliefs.

The NNPCL, in its preliminary objection, prayed the court to strike out the case for being incompetent.

The NNPCL argued that the suit was premature and it disclosed no cause of action against it.

“This honourable court lacks the jurisdiction to hear this suit,” the NNPCL said.

In the affidavit in support of the application deposed to by Isiaka Popoola, a clerk in the law firm of Afe Babalola & Co, counsel to the NNPCL, he said one of their lawyers, Esther Longe who perused Dangote’s originating summons, affidavit and written address told him that an examination of the processes showed that NNPC as sued by the refinery was non-existent entity.

Popoola averred that the court lacked jurisdiction over the 2nd defendant sued as Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).

“A simple search on the CAC website shows that there is no entity called “Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC).”

According to Popoola, the 2nd defendant/objector is not one and the same with the 2nd defendant sued by the plaintiff.

He urged the court to strike out the suit.

Also, the NMDPRA, in its counter affidavit deposed to by Idris Musa, a Senior Regulatory Officer in the office, prayed the court to dismiss the suit as it was misconceived, unmeritorious and incompetent.

Musa argued that Dangote Refinery is not entitled to any of the reliefs sought.

The official, in the application dated and filed Dec. 13, 2024, said the current production of Dangote Refinery is yet to meet the national daily petroleum products sufficiency requirement.

He said based on this and in compliance with Section 317 [9] of the PIA (Petroleum Industry Act), NMDPRA issued licences to import petroleum products to bridge product shortfalls to companies with good track records of international products trading.

Besides, he said the agency is also mandated to promote competition and prevent abuse of dominant market positions and unhealthy monopoly in the oil and gas sector.

He denied the allegation that NMDPRA is partaking in any purported “grand conspiracy and concerted efforts” against the refinery, describing it as “an allegation for which the plaintiff has provided no facts or evidence in support.”

The oil marketers, in a joint counter affidavit filed in November 5, 2024, told the court that granting Dangote’s application would spell doom for the country’s oil sector.

According to them, the plan to monopolise the oil sector is a recipe for disaster in the country.

The three marketers are AYM Shafa Limited, A. A. Rano Limited and Matrix Petroleum Services Limited, in their response, said the plaintiff did not produce adequate petroleum products for the daily consumption of Nigerians.

They argued that there was nothing placed before the court to prove the contrary

Justice Ekwo had, on March 18, dismissed the NNPCL’s objection against Dangote’s suit

The judge, in the ruling, dismissed the objection on the grounds that the application was incompetent.

Justice Ekwo held that the NNPCL ought to have filed a defence in the form of a counter affidavit to the Dangote Refinery’s originating process before raising an objection.

The judge, who also dismissed the NNPCL preliminary objection, challenging the jurisdiction of the court, granted Dangote’s motion to amend its originating motion by correcting the name of the NNPCL.

Besides, Justice Ekwo equally dismissed the motion for joinder filed by Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) for being an unnecessary party and as a “meddlesome interloper.”

Over 800 Gain Admission Into Federal University of Environment And Technology, Ogoni … Academic Work To Commence With Six Faculties

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Over 800 Gain Admission Into Federal University of Environment And Technology, Ogoni … Academic Work To Commence With Six Faculties

The Federal University of Environment and Technology, Ogoni, Rivers State, is set to commence academic work for the 2025/2026 session with the approval for the admission of about 800 pioneer students.

Vice Chancellor of the Institution, Professor Chinedu Mmom, disclosed this on Tuesday, when Executive Council members of County Grammar School, Ikwerre-Etche, Old Boys Association, paid him a visit at the school’s liason office in Port Harcourt.

Professor Mmom also disclosed that the university would commence with six faculties that have been approved following the successful verification and accreditation exercise carried out by the National University Commission (NUC).

The Vice Chancellor hinted that the faculties approved include Agriculture, Allied Health Sciences, and Engineering Technology. Others are Natural and Applied Sciences, Environmental Sciences, and Management Technology.

He listed some of the courses on offer to include Cyber Security, Public Health, Occupational Health and Safety, Software Engineering, Architecture, and Environmental Management. Others are Surveying, Accounting, Management Technology, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Logistics and Supply. He stated that the Faculty of Agriculture will run two different programmes- a four-year degree course on Fishing and Acquaculture – and a five-year programme for the award of Bachelor of Agriculture degree.

Prof. Mmom told the visiting Old Boys of his alma mater that the management of the university is working assiduously to justify the confidence reposed in them by President Bola Tinubu who directed while inaugurating them in August to ensure that academic work commenced this session.

He stated that though the university was grappling with funding challenges, the management has adopted ingenious ways of overcoming teething problems associated with the establishment of new institutions.

He disclosed that staff recruitment will commence as soon as they scale the next stage of authorisation, noting that they are working to rightfully position the school and give it a firm foundation.

The Vice Chancellor also said that he is leveraging his old contacts and connections to secure partnerships and goodwill from relevant schools and organisations, such as the Louisiana State University, Centre For Environmental Justice and Governance, amongst many others, to enhance the status of the new university.

“By the time this university clocks two years, the world will hear about us,” he assured the association.

Earlier, the leader of the team and National President of the County Grammar School, Ikwerre-Etche Old Boys Association, Venerable Bekwele Wabara (Rtd), had on behalf of the association congratulated the Vice Chancellor on his, “well deserved appointment,”.

He said the association remained proud of his achievements in the past and confident that he would eminently justify the confidence reposed in him by the federal government.

Also speaking, Prof. Emenike Wami, a former president of the assocition, commended the new Vice Chancellor for the steps taken so far in giving the school a firm foundation.

The visit, which ended with prayers for a successful tenure for the Vice Chancellor, also had in attendance the Vice President of the association, Chief Vincent Erinwo, National Secretary, Dr. Dawariye Johnson, Chairman, National Congress Planning Committee, Dr. Edwin Ojirika, and a member of the national planning committee, Senibo Celestine Ogolo.

NUPRC Seeks Bank of America Funding For Nigeria’s Upstream Oil Sector

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NUPRC Seeks Bank of America Funding For Nigeria’s Upstream Oil Sector

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has urged the Bank of America to prioritise Nigeria’s upstream oil and gas sector in its investment portfolio to attract funding and boost oil production.

The Commission Chief Executive, Mr Gbenga Komolafe, made the call during a meeting with Mr Chuba Ezenwa, Managing Director and Head of Investment Banking, Sub-Saharan Africa, Bank of America in Abuja.

Mr Eniola Akinkuotu, Head of Media and Strategic Communications, NUPRC, communicated this in a statement on Tuesday.

Komolafe said the engagement was in line with Section 6(h) of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

According to Komolafe, it mandates the commission to promote an enabling environment for investments in upstream petroleum operations and the development of Nigerian content.

He said that although Nigeria’s oil production had increased in the past year, funding remained a major challenge for companies seeking to expand production capacity.

“Nigeria is richly endowed with hydrocarbons and we seek to optimise production; but funding is critical to our success.

“So, we are looking for areas of alignment with the Bank of America,” Komolafe said.

In his response, Ezenwa commended Komolafe’s leadership, describing the recent rise in production as a reflection of the commission’s reforms and strategic focus.

“I am encouraged by the results under the leadership of the CCE, particularly in the area of production, which has sparked renewed interest in Nigeria’s upstream sector.

“We will continue to provide support,” he said.

Peter Obi, Others Advocate National Policy Shift Towards Apprenticeships, Entrepreneurship

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Peter Obi, Others Advocate National Policy Shift Towards Apprenticeships, Entrepreneurship

A Former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, has advocated for a shift in national focus toward celebrating practical on-the-ground knowledge apprenticeship and successful non-formally educated entrepreneurs.

He made the call in Lagos at the launch of a book titled, “Just Go Further: Become the Total Entrepreneur”, a debut edition authored by Mrs Ebele Obi, a renowned Entrepreneur, Mentor, and Business Leader

Obi, a 2023 Labour Party Presidential Aspirant, said that the publication was a call to action for innovators, dreamers and builders who refuse to stop at the starting line.

He noted that lack of support for practical successes such as apprenticeships was hindering the nation’s economic growth.

The former governor said that the reason the country was not thriving was because of the limited support for apprenticeships and informal form of entrepreneurship.

Obi underscored the need for national policies that formally recognised, encouraged and leveraged the wisdom of successful, non-formally educated business figures to drive mentorship and economic expansion.

The Author, Mrs Ebele Obi, said that the book was not just another business manual but an urgent call to action for innovators who are ready to move beyond the start-up phase and build lasting legacies.

Ebele said that the book would empower readers to embrace the courage, creativity, and consistency needed to navigate and thrive in an ever changing economic landscape.

She said that the journey of building a business required deep personal commitment, adding that entrepreneurship was about mindset, courage, and consistency.

“This book encourages people not just to start, but to go further, to become total entrepreneurs who can thrive anywhere and build enduring businesses.

“Apprenticeship gives aspiring entrepreneurs a solid foundation, it is through guided experience and mentorship that we gain the confidence, wisdom, and grit to truly go further,’’ she said.

The author stressed that the core theme of the book was the power of guided experience and mentorship, reminding readers that foundational growth often began with learning from those who had successfully paved the way.

She urged the Education Sector to inculcate money matters in school curriculum and to encourage apprenticeships, which helped to grow economies, adding that, unfortunately, the practice was dying in Nigeria.

The author noted that apprenticeships had helped countries like the UK and Germany to thrive and had also empowered people.

According to her, apprenticeship is a win-win case.

The Book Reviewer, Mr Oseloka Obaze, former UN Senior diplomat, said that the book was a motivational book to motivate others to be successful.

Obaze said that the book was written by an entrepreneur for budding entrepreneurs.

According to him, the book is not the first on entrepreneurship, neither will it be the last in Nigeria.

He stressed that what made the book unique was the knowledge being disseminated by someone who grew up in the commercial city of Onitsha.

Obaze said that the co-mingling of the author’s experience in business and apprenticeship were brought to bear in the book.

He noted that the book was a fit-for-all-purpose book with three vital strands – why, how to and the gateways to entrepreneurship.

“This book targets dreamers, those who think they can become viable and trailblazing entrepreneurs but are hobbled by self doubt as well as aspiring entrepreneurs.

“Seasoned professionals and entrepreneurs who have long transcended the rudiments of what it means to start a company, will also benefit from the book,” he said.

Obaze said that Part Two of the book was about sustaining the growth of entrepreneurs, while Part Three emphasised succession planning (transcending generations).

He said the book also spoke to entrepreneurs on the pivotal role they must play in the economy.

According to him, the book speaks to the utility of free enterprise, how to do it yourself, think progressively, especially in a stifling environment.

Obaze said that it prompted young people not to think of themselves as prospective employees but as prospective employers, adding that this was the era of startups which are fiercely driven by innovation and destructive technology.

Also the Chief launcher, Chief Emmanuel Okonkwo, lauded the author’s feat while encouraging women to go further and challenging men to be up and about.

BudgIT Carpets 29 States Over Poor Implementation Of Health Budgets

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BudgIT Carpets 29 States Over Poor Implementation Of Health Budgets

BudgIT, a civic tech non-profit organisation, says only seven states implemented more than 80 per cent of their health budgets in 2024.

This was highlighted at the BudgIT 2025 State of States Report launch, with theme “A Decade of Subnational Fiscal Analysis:” released on Tuesday in Abuja.

BudgIT named the states as Yobe, Gombe, Ekiti, Lagos, Edo, Delta, and Bauchi.

The organisation said that in 2024, Nigerian states collectively budgeted N1.32 trillion for health.

However, actual spending fell significantly short, reaching only N816.64 billion, representing a 61.9 per cent budget performance.

It said that Yobe led with a 98.2 per cent implementation rate, though its total expenditure was N13.24 billion, ranking 24th among all states.

On a per capita basis, the report the figures were concerning.

The report states that states spent an average of N3,483 per person on health, with no state exceeding N10,000 per person.

It stated that only Lagos, Bayelsa, Edo, Abia, Kwara, Niger, and Delta spent more than N5,000 per capita.

Responding to the report, Mr Oluseun Onigbinde, Global Director of BudgIT. warned that while states have seen increased revenue inflows from federation allocations, much of this additional income has not been channelled effectively into critical social services like healthcare.

Onigbinde, said there is an urgent need for states to prioritise health funding and ensure allocations translate into tangible improvements for citizens.

He highlighted the broader implications of subnational fiscal management.

He said the report serves as “a mirror reflecting the choices our state governments make, the paths they follow, and the opportunities they seize or leave behind.”

He noted that while transparency has improved over the past decade, many states still struggle to mobilise resources and manage them efficiently, leaving a gap between potential and actual service delivery.

“The State of States is not BudgIT’s report alone, it is a call to action, a roadmap for reform,” he said.

He urged states to prioritise fiscal accountability, innovation, and investment in sectors that directly impact citizens.

Also speaking, Dr Uche Amaonwu, Nigeria Country Director of the Gates Foundation, congratulated BudgIT for ten years of promoting fiscal transparency and accountability, highlighting how the report tracks Nigeria’s 36 states’ fiscal performance and encourages better governance.

Amaonwu said that fiscal transparency is not an end in itself but a tool to ensure public resources reach citizens effectively.

He noted that sound fiscal systems and governance improve service delivery, empower citizens, and enable states to invest strategically for shared prosperity.

He highlighted the role of data tools, like BudgIT’s Primary Health Care Accountability Tracker, in improving budget execution and accountability.

He called on state governments to take ownership of performance, adopt strong financial management practices, and ensure that every naira allocated to sectors like health, education, and human capital delivers real impact.

Amaonwu reaffirmed the Gates Foundation’s commitment to supporting BudgIT and reform-minded states to strengthen governance, noting that “fiscal health is human health, and governance, when transparent and accountable, is the bridge that connects both.”

Also speaking, Mr Taiwo Oyedele, highlighted a decade of subnational fiscal analysis in Nigeria, showing both progress and persistent challenges.

Oyedele noted that while FAAC allocations and state revenues have increased, doubling from ₦5.4 trillion in 2023 to ₦11.4 trillion in 2024, many states still rely heavily on federal allocations, with 21 states depending on FAAC for at least 70 per cent of revenue.

He pointed out disparities in budget execution, with only two-thirds of education budgets and 62 per cent of health budgets implemented, and emphasised the need to shift from recurrent expenditure to capital and human development spending.

He praised states like Anambra, Lagos, and Enugu for good fiscal management, while urging others to improve, stressing that governance is reflected in prioritising infrastructure, productivity, and human development.

Looking forward, he called for deeper fiscal reforms, responsible debt management, harmonised taxation, and greater investment in education and health.

He urged states to rise above mere survival, convert fiscal gains into tangible prosperity, and ensure inclusive development, categorising them into growth, middling, or declining states.

The 2025 BudgIT State of States Report ranks Anambra as the top-performing state in fiscal management, with Lagos, Kwara, Abia, and Edo completing the top five.

Cross River, previously a top performer, dropped significantly, while Yobe replaced Jigawa at the bottom.

The report evaluates 35 states across revenue generation, expenditure patterns, debt sustainability, and sectoral investments in education and health.

Key findings include strong growth in total state revenue, particularly from FAAC transfers and internally generated revenue (IGR), though 28 states remain heavily reliant on federal allocations.

Capital expenditure is rising, with 24 states spending at least half their budgets on development projects, while recurrent costs and personnel spending continue to dominate in others.

Debt management shows progress, with 31 states reducing domestic debt, though some states remain highly leveraged.

Over the decade, Lagos, Ogun, Delta, Kaduna, and Enugu consistently led in IGR, while states like Borno and Ogun achieved the highest IGR growth rates.

BudgIT said that fiscal sustainability requires improved revenue systems, reduced waste, and prioritisation of infrastructure and human development, calling on states to turn revenue gains into tangible benefits for citizens.

Masters Sports Int’l Hails SWAN @60

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Masters Sports Int’l Hails SWAN @60

Masters Sports International, a frontline sports management company has congratulated the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) on the occasion of its 60 years anniversary.

Ejiro Omonode, Co-founder of Masters Sports International made the commendation at the just concluded Tiger 5-Aside Football Championship in Awka on Tuesday.

Omonode said SWAN has come a long way with 60 years of promoting sports in Nigeria, adding that the association has executed its duty to sports and the society creditably.

Omonode commended those who were nominated for various awards, saying that their selection was an indication that they had done well for sports development in Nigeria.

He paid tribute to the heroes of SWAN, including the dead for their positive impacts to SWAN, sports journalism and sports promotion.

According to him, SWAN has a statutory responsibility and mandate of the society to project and promote sports development in Nigeria.

“Just as you cannot have a party without music, you cannot have a successful sports sector without SWAN, we take sports to the people.

“On behalf of Masters Sports International, I want to congratulate SWAN for the responsible and indispensable role they have been playing in the country.

“It is good that SWAN has moved from Lagos and Abuja to the states, I like the vibrancy at that level which means that sports promotion is going on across the country,” he said.

The SWAN Diamond Jubilee and Award Ceremony is scheduled for Abuja between Oct. 29 and 31.

Super Falcons qualifies for 2026 WAFCON in Morocco

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Super Falcons qualifies for 2026 WAFCON in Morocco

The Super Falcons of Nigeria on Tuesday qualified for the Women African Cup Of Nations (WAFCON) coming up in Morocco next year.

The Super Falcons played 1:1 draw with their Benin Republic counterpart in the second leg of the qualifier at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta
Nigerian defender Ashleigh Plumptre scored in the 11th minute, heading the ball home from a corner kick.

The goal compounded the woes for the Amazon, who had previously lost the first leg by two goals to nil in Lome.

During the second half, the Beninoise came out more impressive and were rewarded in the 61st minutes through a direct free kick from Yasminath Djibril , beating Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie.
The duo of Deborah Abiodun and Esther Okoronkwo sustained injuries and were substituted during the match.

Speaking at the post match press conference, Super Falcon’s Coach , Justine Madugu, said that though the team played below expectations, he was, however, happy for the qualification.

“In terms of results, sometimes there can be off days, there can be bad days and we want to consider today’s match from this perspective.
“The performance is not what we need, but we expected it.

“It didn’t come so much as a surprise because even, at the press conference yesterday, we knew it was going to be a tough game,” he said.

The 10th time African champion will be hoping to make it 11th time at the 2026 tournament in Morocco.

Blue Economy: Ngo-Atlantic- Oyorokoto Road Will Unlock Rivers Coastal Prosperity -Fubara

The Atlantic Bell
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Blue Economy: Ngo-Atlantic- Oyorokoto Road Will Unlock Rivers Coastal Prosperity -Fubara

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has described the ongoing construction of the brand new 13.52-kilometre Ngo-Atlantic-Oyorokoto Road as a bold and visionary effort by his administration to open up the coastal region for economic growth and harness the full potential of the state’s blue economy.

The Governor made this remark on Tuesday during an inspection visit to the project site in Andoni Local Government Area. The road, being constructed by Monier Construction Company (MCC), cuts through challenging coastal terrain and leads to a newly identified beachfront facing the Atlantic Ocean.

Governor Fubara explained that while the original plan was to construct a road leading to Oyorokoto Town and its popular beach, his administration decided to expand the project to create an entirely new route that would open access to another pristine beachfront.

“We are doing another inspection today. This particular one is a virgin road, 13.52 kilometres of a new pathway to the blue economy,” Governor Fubara stated.

“Initially, we were constructing a road to Oyorokoto Beach, one of the finest tourist centres in this area. But as we progressed, we discovered another beach directly facing the Atlantic Ocean. It became clear that we shouldn’t limit development to just one site. We want to harness this new beach front as part of our broader plan to develop the blue economy.”

The Governor emphasised that the project, once completed, will not only improve access to coastal communities but also stimulate tourism and economic activities, boosting revenue for Rivers State.

Describing the area’s difficult terrain as challenging, he commended the contractor for its dedication, and expressed confidence that the road would be completed and commissioned by March next year.

“You can see for yourself, it’s a brand-new road in a very difficult terrain, just like the one we saw yesterday. But I strongly believe we will overcome it. From what we’ve seen today, the contractor, MCC, is doing their best, and by next year, hopefully by March, we’ll have the cause to commission this project and give God all the glory,” the Governor affirmed.

Governor Fubara also visited Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area to assess the progress of work on the Epellema axis of the ongoing 5.2km Kalaibiama-Epellema road project featuring a 450-meter bridge.

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