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Tag: Featured

  • IADI, Others Set to Protest Against Customs Boss Over Smuggling Allegations, Promotion Scandal

    IADI, Others Set to Protest Against Customs Boss Over Smuggling Allegations, Promotion Scandal

    • Calls on Tinubu to Reverse Tenure Extension

    • As Groups Decry Nepotism, Favoritism, and Disregard for Due Process

    Amid rising concerns over governance failures within the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), a coalition of civil society organizations led by the Integrity Advocacy for Development Initiative (IADI) has announced plans to stage a nationwide protest and press conference against the leadership of the agency, particularly the Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

    According to reports, the planned civic action stems from a series of unresolved allegations, including collusion with rice smugglers, promotion irregularities, nepotism, and a growing culture of impunity and administrative silence within the Service.

    In a statement released on Wednesday, signed by IADI’s Executive Director, Comrade Christopher Ofomhi, the group disclosed that the protest is officially scheduled for Friday, 15th August 2025. The procession will begin at Unity Fountain, Abuja, and proceed to the Customs Headquarters, where demonstrators will demand accountability and comprehensive reform.

    The group also revealed that a formal petition dated 6th August 2025 has been submitted to the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, requesting approval and security coverage for the protest. IADI emphasized that the protest will be peaceful, lawful, and focused on drawing national attention to deep-rooted issues in the Customs Service that have long been ignored.
    Of particular concern according to the group, are fresh allegations that officers collect ₦250,000 per boat to facilitate rice smuggling through the Badagry waterways. These illegal activities, reportedly carried out in full view of Customs patrol boats, raise grave concerns about complicity at the highest levels.

    The coalition also decried alleged favoritism in special promotions, opaque examination procedures, and violations of seniority protocols, all of which they say are eroding morale within the Service and undermining public trust.

    Comrade Ofomhi lamented that despite repeated petitions and public outcries, the Comptroller-General’s office has remained silent. “We can no longer be quiet while due process is consistently trampled upon. It is our constitutional responsibility to demand accountability where there is silence and to challenge abuse where negligence thrives,” he declared.

    Ofomhi also disclosed that the protest will be an avenue to call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider and reverse the recent tenure extension granted to CG Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, which he insists was not based on merit or transparency.

    “The extension appears to be a product of favoritism, not competence,” the group alleged, warning that such practices must not be tolerated under an administration committed to the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    They further stressed that bad leadership must be confronted, not rewarded, and vowed to escalate civic pressure if the authorities fail to act. While expressing openness to dialogue, the civil society groups made it clear that continued inaction would prompt a broader nationwide campaign to restore accountability and integrity across Nigeria’s security and revenue-generating institutions.

  • Access Bank: A Game-Changer in Africa’s Financial Future

    Access Bank: A Game-Changer in Africa’s Financial Future

    In today’s ever-evolving financial landscape, few institutions can claim to be true pioneers. But Access Bank, with its bold vision, cutting-edge innovation, and pan-African presence, has shattered the traditional image of a bank.

    It is no longer just a financial institution, it’s a movement, a catalyst for economic empowerment, and a force driving sustainable change across continents.

    From Nigeria to the World

    With headquarters in Lagos, Access Bank has become Africa’s largest bank by customer base, serving over 60 million customers across more than 20 countries in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. With bank’s total assets valued at a staggering N41.5 trillion (Access Holdings); N40.8trillion (Access Bank) as at FY December 31, 2024, it’s Nigeria’s largest bank by assets and a formidable multinational financial player.

    Global Footprint: Beyond Borders

    In Africa, it has recorded a domineering presence in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Gambia, Zambia, DRC, Tanzania, South Africa, Cameroon, Mozambique, and Angola. Excellently spreading its tentacles in European countries, its footprint is felt in the United Kingdom and France while it has penetrated the
    Middle East: United Arab Emirates (UAE).

    However, the bank also have representative Offices in India, China, and Lebanon.

    Innovation as a Growth Engine

    What sets Access Bank apart isn’t just its size, but its commitment to innovation and customer-centric technology.

    In partnership with Avaya, the bank deployed a hybrid cloud contact center solution, enhancing real-time customer engagement and scalability.

    Result? An impressive 10% increase in customer satisfaction score (from 54% to 64%) and a dramatic Net Promoter Score jump from -4 to +23.

    Its digital banking platforms support millions of daily transactions, providing secure, accessible banking across mobile, internet, and agent networks.

    Expanding Digital Inclusion

    It’s investment in technology isn’t just about convenience—it’s about financial inclusion:

    * Over 50,000 Closa Agents across Nigeria, ensuring the unbanked and underserved have access to basic financial services.
    * Robust mobile banking platforms designed to work even in low-bandwidth areas.
    * Internet Banking offering seamless 24/7 account management, bill payment, and fund transfers.

    Banking on Sustainability: ESG in Action

    Access Bank is Africa’s most recognized ESG-focused bank, winning:

    * Best Bank in Nigeria
    * Best Bank in Ghana for ESG
    — both at the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2024 and 2025

    Through sustainable finance initiatives, the bank has:

    * Financed renewable energy projects across rural Africa

    * Promoted clean energy access

    * Cut carbon emissions through green operations and eco-loans

    Its SME Banking Programme empowers thousands of small businesses with tailored financial products, mentorship, and market access—crucial for Africa’s post-pandemic recovery.

    The 2027 Vision: 125 Million Customers

    With its determination to be a driver in the industry, Access Bank is targeting 22 African countries by 2027, signaling a strategic drive for dominance across emerging markets.

    However, doubling its customer base to 125 million by 2027 is a huge feet that is conquerable. In realisation of that, it’s anchoring on:

    * Aggressive digital expansion
    * Continental acquisition strategy
    * Inclusive financial products
    * Youth and women-focused entrepreneurship financing

    With its smart, people-first approach, Access Bank is not just participating in Africa’s growth story—it’s writing it.

    Conclusion

    As Africa eye a new economic dawn, Access Bank is proving that banking can be more than numbers, it can be purpose-driven, sustainable, and transformational.

    For the youth in Kano or Kigali, the entrepreneur in Accra or Addis Ababa, and the rural trader in Makurdi or Mombasa, Access Bank isn’t just a bank. It’s a partner for progress.

    According to the Nigeria Online Media Alliance (NOMA), this ambition is not only possible, it’s well underway.

    So, yes, Access Bank is more than banking. It’s the future. And the future is here.

    “Access Bank represents a bold new vision of what an African bank can and should be global, inclusive, digital, and sustainable. As Chairperson of NOMA, I can confidently say: This is not just Africa’s largest bank by numbers, it is Africa’s most impactful bank by purpose.”

  • IBD Impex Debunks Smuggling Allegations Against Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun

    • …Calls for Responsible Journalism 

    IBD Impex Ltd has firmly denied allegations linking its Chairman, Chief Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun (popularly known as IBD Dende), to the smuggling of foreign rice into Lagos markets, describing the claims as baseless, misleading, and a calculated smear campaign.

    In a public memorandum signed by Adekunle Bamidele, Head of Media and Public Communications at IBD Impex Ltd, the company described the viral social media video circulating the allegations as a “deliberate smear campaign” aimed at discrediting a man whose only offence is “succeeding through legitimate enterprise.”

    The video in question reportedly features a woman blindfolding herself while alleging that smuggled rice is being sold in local markets and falsely linking Chief Dende to the trade. However, the memorandum asserts that the clip is emotionally manipulative and lacks any factual or evidential basis.

    “Alhaji Ibrahim Dende is not involved in any form of rice smuggling or economic sabotage,” the statement read. “He is a reputable businessman known for lawful operations and compliance with regulatory standards.”

    The company also noted that several public figures and market stakeholders, including respected journalist Babajide Kolade Otitoju of TVC, Chief Ibiola Solaja (Iyalaje of Mushin), Alhaji Muftau Adisa (Babalojas), and prominent trader Stella Mide, have all debunked the allegations, describing them as mischievous and false.

    Despite the social media storm, IBD Impex emphasized that Chief Dende remains undeterred, committed to ethical practices, and focused on his business.

    “He remains a patriotic Nigerian and a law-abiding businessman, dedicated to national development and commercial integrity,” the statement concluded.

    The company urged the general public, media professionals, and stakeholders to disregard the false video and refrain from spreading unverified claims, emphasizing the importance of truth, clarity, and responsible journalism.

  • CSOs Demand Governor’s Urgent Action As Ibusa Youth Crisis Escalates

    Civil society organizations identified as African Leadership Strategy & Transparency Development Initiative,
    have called on Delta State Governor, Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, to urgently intervene in the growing leadership crisis rocking the Igbuzo Youth Council (IYC) in Ibusa, Oshimili North LGA, warning that the situation is fast deteriorating and could lead to violent cult clashes if left unaddressed.

    In an open letter signed by Amb. Nelson Ossaieze and Comrade Victor Itsede, the CSOs accused the local government chairman, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, of defying a valid court injunction by imposing an illegal interim executive on the youth council. They further alleged that Hon. Esewezie formed a group called Ibusa Youth Ambassadors, which he uses to enforce control over the council in violation of its constitution and the rule of law.

    The letter revealed that a peace meeting held on July 21, 2025, at the state secretariat following a previous petition dated May 28, ended in a stalemate.

    According to the CSOs, Chief Edwin Uzor, the governor’s Special Adviser on Peace Building and Conflict Management, openly sided with the LG Chairman, asking the aggrieved youths to withdraw their case from court before being heard, despite ongoing violations of the same court order.

    They alleged that the chairman of the imposed interim body, Hon. Patrick Nwankwor, is a serving councillor and acting secretary to the Obuzor of Ibusa, both roles which violate the provisions of the IYC constitution. The CSOs warned that political interests are fueling the crisis and creating hostility on the ground, with community tension rising daily.

    Despite the issuance of Form 48 contempt proceedings by the court against those violating its order, the illegal interim body continues to operate freely, instilling fear and undermining the legitimacy of the existing council led by Chief Victor Ifeanyi Asiodu. The CSOs insist that the interference is politically motivated and against the values of justice and peace that Governor Oborevwori upholds.

    The organizations urged the governor to dissolve the interim executive, enforce the court’s order, and initiate a neutral, transparent process to restore legitimate leadership in the IYC. They also called for a fact-finding mission to assess the situation firsthand and prevent further escalation.

  • Wema Bank’s Digital Bank, ALAT, Emerges Nigeria’s Best Digital Bank at Euromoney Awards 2025

    In recognition of its position as a digital pioneer in the African banking landscape, Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, a trailblazing digital platform pioneered by Nigeria’s oldest indigenous and most innovative bank, Wema Bank, has been awarded Nigeria’s Best Digital Bank at the Euromoney Awards 2025.

    Euromoney is a leading provider of competitive intelligence and benchmarking insight for the global banking and finance industry, trusted for over 50 years to deliver data-led analysis that informs strategy, validates performance, and supports decision-making at the executive level. The Euromoney Awards, pioneered by Euromoney, are regarded as the ultimate accolade in banking; the industry-leading stamp of approval that banks across the globe work yearlong to achieve. Recognised as Nigeria’s leading financial institution in digital innovation, Wema Bank’s revolutionary digital bank, ALAT, was awarded Nigeria’s Best Digital Bank at the Euromoney Awards 2025 held at The Peninsula London Hotel in London on Thursday, 17th July, 2025.

    Since its launch on May 2nd 2017, ALAT has bridged the gaps in delivery of financial services to Nigerians within Nigeria and globally, evolving remarkably into a holistic hub of lifestyle and financial solutions for Nigerian adults of all ages and from all walks of life. From simply being the first fully digital bank in Africa, ALAT has evolved remarkably into a digital platform with an ecosystem of dynamic financial solutions tailored to provide seamless, reliable, and convenient service for all. With ALAT, basic financial services like transfers, airtime & data purchases, bill payments and loans are placed at the fingertips of users, in addition to a wide range of advanced financial services and solutions that merge banking with lifestyle.

    From in-app local and international flight bookings to tailored personal and group savings options, investments and stocks, movie and event tickets, deals and discounts on a limitless pool of products and services, 24/7 health consultation, and a suite of customised loan options for salary earners and non-salary earners; ALAT changed the game, redefining banking and financial services in a world where digital has become the future. In view of ALAT’s groundbreaking role in blazing the trail for FinTechs in Africa and its intentionally-curated wealth of features and offerings designed to meet the needs of Nigerians in Nigeria and the diaspora, it is evident that the Bank is undeniably deserving of the recognition and accolade.

    Underscoring Wema Bank’s commitment in shaping the future of banking through impactful innovations like ALAT, Wema Bank’s MD/CEO, Moruf Oseni, expressed appreciation to the Euromoney Awards for recognising the Bank’s impact on the proliferation of digital innovation in Africa, reiterating the Bank’s commitment to its sustainability vision of developing digital solutions for societal impact. Receiving the award, Oseni commented, “The world is moving fast and so is the permeation of ‘digital’ into the most critical aspects of our lives. 80 years ago when Wema Bank was established, typewriters were the extent of banking technology. Today, we have pioneered a fully digital bank, and possess technology advanced enough to power over 150 FinTechs. In ten years, one can only imagine what this fast-paced digital economy will bring. One thing is clear, any business, venture or institution that will remain relevant by the end of the next decade, must leverage digital technology today. This is why Wema Bank is so driven when it comes to digital. Innovation and empowerment”.

    “As a Bank, our stance is clear. Wema Bank will never relent in empowering lives through innovation and developing digital solutions for societal impact. We will continue to pioneer innovation, empower innovators and bridge the gap between traditional and digital, leveraging the opportunities of the digital world to generate meaningful impact on lives and businesses in Nigeria, Africa and across the world. We have remained resilient in this commitment since 1945 and this award tells us that the world is feeling our impact. We are honoured by this recognition, and I take this opportunity to extend our sincerest gratitude to the Euromoney Awards. We take this as a challenge to keep up the good work, go harder, and continue going above and beyond in shaping the future of banking through digital innovation. Here’s to 80 years of impact and a future of limitless possibilities with Wema Bank”. Oseni concluded.

    Wema Bank continues to raise the bar in financial services, placing Nigeria on the global map for banking and digital innovation. Since 1945, the Bank has spearheaded a positive transformation in Africa’s banking and financial landscape, proving that Nigerian-owned businesses have the capacity to last and stand the test of time. As the Bank celebrated its 80th anniversary on May 2nd 2025, its futuristic digital platform, ALAT simultaneously clocked 8, marking 8 years of digital transformation.

    The world continues to watch in anticipation as Wema Bank leads the movement in digital innovation, shaping the future of banking in Africa.

    ABOUT WEMA BANK

    Established on May 2nd, 1945, Wema Bank is Nigeria’s oldest indigenous bank, most innovative, and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT. Commemorating a remarkable 80 years of impact and a future of possibilities, Wema Bank celebrated its 80th anniversary on May 2nd 2025 alongside the 8th anniversary of ALAT by Wema.

    The publicly quoted Nigerian company has successfully built a legacy of trust, resilience and banking excellence that has won it the loyalty of its customers for 8 decades and counting. The Bank has remained innovative in delivering value to its stakeholders, constantly introducing products and services tailored to the needs of its customers at every stage of their lives.

    Wema Bank is a proud partner to more than one million individuals, families, and businesses across Nigeria, helping them achieve their personal and financial goals.

    Since its establishment in 1945, Wema Bank has built a legacy of pioneering innovation and empowering innovation to thrive, connecting traditional with digital and introducing several digital gamechangers and industry-firsts that have redefined standards across various industries and verticals.

    From launching Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, in 2017, Wema Bank went on to launch the ALAT For Business App, a business-focused version of ALAT; CoopHub App, a-first-of-its-kind digital solution designed to empower cooperatives for optimal productivity; Wema Phygital, a self-service implementation adding a digital touch to the physical experience in Wema Bank’s branches; ALATPay, an end-to-end payment gateway that provides instant settlement for business transactions; and the ALAT Xplore App, Nigeria’s first fully licensed banking app for teenagers, among others.

  • PAP Chief Dr. Otuaro Hails Buhari’s Legacy, Calls for Unity Amid National Loss

    PAP Chief Dr. Otuaro Hails Buhari’s Legacy, Calls for Unity Amid National Loss

    ‎The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Chief Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro, Ph.D., has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing it as a national tragedy and the end of a defining era in Nigeria’s political and moral journey.

    In a personal condolence message, Dr. Otuaro extended heartfelt sympathies to the Buhari family, the Federal Government, and all Nigerians. He emphasized that the former President’s passing is not just a family bereavement, but a moment for deep national reflection.

    “President Muhammadu Buhari was more than a leader; he was a national institution,” Dr. Otuaro stated. “He embodied the values of integrity, discipline, and selfless service. His leadership, marked by personal sacrifice and a steadfast commitment to national unity, will remain a guiding light for generations to come.”

    ‎Dr. Otuaro reflected on the legacy of the late former President, praising his bold stance against corruption, unwavering commitment to national security, and drive for governance reform. He noted that Buhari’s contributions to public sector discipline, regional stability, and democratic consolidation have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s development.

    ‎“As we mourn this monumental loss,” he added, “we must also draw strength from the principles he stood for. His vision of a united, peaceful, and accountable Nigeria must not die with him. It is our collective duty to uphold those ideals.”

    ‎Dr. Otuaro called on Nigerians across all ethnic, political, and religious divides to use this period of mourning to recommit themselves to nation-building, reconciliation, and a renewed sense of patriotic responsibility.

    He concluded by offering prayers for divine strength for the Buhari family and peaceful repose for the soul of the late statesman.

    “May the Almighty grant his family comfort and fortitude in this trying time, and may the soul of our former President rest in perfect peace. Let us honour his memory not just in words, but in deeds, by working to make Nigeria a stronger and more united nation.”

  • Fuji Star Lagunja 1 Mourns Late Awujale, Calls July 13 a Day Ijebu and Nigeria Will Never Forget

    Fuji music sensation, Wasiu Haruna-Ishola, popularly known as Lagunja 1, has paid a heartfelt tribute to Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, the late Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, who passed away on Sunday, July 13, at the age of 91.

    In a statement issued from Europe, where he is currently on a musical tour, the Ijebu-born artiste and protégé of Fuji legend King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate), described the monarch’s death as a monumental loss to Ijebuland, Yoruba land, and Nigeria as a whole.

    “July 13, 2025, is a date that can never be forgotten in the history of Ijebu and indeed the entire nation,” Lagunja said. “Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona was more than a king—he was a pillar of wisdom, culture, and progress who defined what it meant to serve one’s people selflessly.”

    Lagunja 1, an alumnus of Abusi Edumare Academy, Ijebu-Igbo, hailed the monarch’s 64-year reign as a transformative period that saw significant strides in education, healthcare, cultural identity, and economic development in Ogun State and across Nigeria.

    “Kabiyesi was a unifier, a man of foresight, and a royal father whose leadership inspired generations. His dedication to peace, progress, and people’s welfare will remain a blueprint for traditional leadership,” Lagunja stated.

    He also reflected on the coincidence of Oba Adetona’s passing on the same day as former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing the moment as a “double national tragedy.”

    “To lose two prominent national figures in one day is heartbreaking. But the memory of their service will live on.”

    Oba Adetona, installed in 1960, was Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarch. Widely regarded as a beacon of modern monarchy, his leadership helped position Ijebu as a model of cultural pride, political influence, and socio-economic development.

    “May Kabiyesi’s soul rest in perfect peace, and may we continue to honour the values he stood for—dignity, wisdom, and devotion to the people,” Lagunja concluded.

  • Commotion In The House of Fuji Is Unnecessary In The 21st Century 

    Commotion In The House of Fuji Is Unnecessary In The 21st Century 

    By Adebayo Faleke( Bayoo), Broadcast Journalist,Author & Filmmaker.

    Once upon a sound, Fuji music was a roaring lion. Born from the soul of Yoruba oral tradition, forged in the fire of “were” music during Ramadan nights, and matured in the belly of Lagos street culture. It was the soundtrack of celebration, of struggle, of spirit. It was loud, it was local, it was ours.

    But today? The once glorious House of Fuji has become a noisy beer parlour where egos sing louder than talent and bitter rivalry replaces harmony. In fact, it’s no longer Fuji music; it’s Fuji warfare.

    In most other global music cultures, veterans become mentors, legends, pillars. In Fuji? Veterans become permanent enemies. No handshakes. No collaborations. No mentorship. Just shade, showoff, subtle insults, and Facebook live fights. One veteran sneezes, another replies with a facebook live show. One is crowned at a birthday party, the other organizes a “coronation” concert same day just to prove he’s bigger. Titles like “Mr. Music,” “King of Fuji,” “Fuji Lord,” “Oluaye,” “Paramount King,” “Alhaji Generalissimo” are tossed around like sachet water, while unity is thrown in the gutter. Meanwhile, the young Fuji musicians; the supposed future are caught in the crossfire, reduced to errand boys for aged kings still dragging microphones like it’s 1985.

    Now enter the 21st-century stage of podcasting, where microphones have become truth serum and public court, all in one. Podcasts are the new confessionals, and our Fuji stars are the new talk-happy guests who mistake public platforms for private parlours. It used to be that Fuji beefs were whispered in motorcade convoys, or subtly coded in lyrics. But now? All it takes is a free bottle of Hennessy, one wireless mic, and a camera, and suddenly, these grown men start talking like teenagers in a hostel bunk.

    Grievances that were once dead and buried resurface. Old slaps are remembered with detail. Disputes from 1992 are revived with painful precision. In the name of “just being real,” Fuji musicians now expose ancient wounds on global platforms, unable to differentiate between podcast gist and bedroom talk. They confuse microphones with mouth organs and throw maturity, decorum, and discretion into the winds.

    They forget that the internet never forgets. They forget that millions are watching, not just their fans but their future sponsors, event organizers, and even their own children. And worst of all, they forget that their words carry bullets because in Fuji, talk is never cheap. So, what happens next? The insulted party sees the clip. Pride kicks in. A “reply podcast” is rushed. Supporters pick sides. Social media catches fire. And commotion is back in the House of Fuji. All because someone couldn’t keep his mouth zipped in a podcast meant for public consumption.

    Let’s face the hard truth: when last did Nigeria produce a new Fuji star that commanded and still commanding national attention? Not local bar attention o. National. The kind of energy Fuji creator himself -Late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister,General Kolington Ayinla, K1 de Ultimate, Obesere, Pasuma, Saheed Osupa, Merenge,sefiu Alao, Ayuba once commanded. Where is the new blood? Where is the innovation? Where is the digital transition? Answer: Nowhere. Because instead of building an industry, the House of Fuji is busy fighting over thrones in a palace with no roof.

    Afrobeats artistes; many of whom are sons of the same Yoruba soil, have taken the shine. Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, Asake, Olamide; these boys united and turned their genre into an international currency. They collaborated. They supported one another. They modernized their sound. And guess what? They didn’t need to fight over who is the “Oluaye of YouTube.”or “Balogun of spotify”. Fuji artistes, on the other hand, are still arguing over who owns the title of “Musical Taliban.” At this rate, even highlife may resurrect and overtake Fuji on the popularity charts.

    In the House of Fuji today, K1 is a god but faces constant online jabs from those who feel he’s blocking others. Obesere is forever “back like he never left” but is still more famous for his “Asakasa” sound. Osupa and Pasuma could win awards for longest beef in African music history. And the “younger generation”? They are either trying to sound like their fathers or fighting to inherit their fathers’ enemies. Nobody is building. Nobody is investing in branding. Nobody is packaging Fuji for Gen Z or global stages. No proper management. No streaming strategy. Just Instagram live rants, podcast tantrums, and recycled beats.

    It’s 2025. The world is hungry for authentic African music. Traditional, percussive, powerful. Fuji should be leading that charge; exporting Yoruba drum patterns, proverbs, call-and-response rhythms. It should be streaming globally, taught in music schools, sampled by global producers. But what are Fuji artists doing? They are too busy fighting over who started what, who stole which style, who didn’t greet who at the last Owambe. Instead of forming a Fuji Academy, they are forming cliques of quarrels. Instead of organizing Fuji talent hunt, they are organizing insult sessions on streaming platforms. And so Afrobeat, which has no king, no official title holder, and no 1-hour oriki intro, continues to rise while Fuji remains a Lagos/Ibadan traffic jam music.

    The commotion in the House of Fuji is unnecessary, embarrassing, and destructive. It is holding back a genre with soul, culture, depth, and international potential. The elders must bury their egos, the younger ones must carve their identity, and the entire house must be renovated from chaos to culture.

    And please, to all Fuji musicians: a podcast is not your bedroom. Your mouth is not a weapon. And your legacy is bigger than your beef. Let’s save Fuji. Or let’s admit we failed it.

  • National Youth Council Retreat: Senate, FG Commit to Youth-Driven Development

    National Youth Council Retreat: Senate, FG Commit to Youth-Driven Development

    The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has flagged off its National Leadership Retreat, themed “Repositioning NYCN for National Impact and Youth-Driven Development,” with a clarion call for purposeful, visionary youth leadership across the country. The highly anticipated event officially began on Monday, July 14, 2025, following the arrival of delegates on Sunday, July 13, and is scheduled to run through Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

    ‎Held under the leadership of Comrade Solomon Adodo, President of the NYCN, the retreat brought together members of the National Executive Council (NEC), state and zonal coordinators, youth stakeholders, and key representatives from government and civil society. The retreat is aimed at retooling the structure and focus of NYCN in alignment with national development priorities and the aspirations of young Nigerians.

    ‎In a significant show of support, the President of the Senate, ably represented at the retreat, assured the gathering of the Federal Government’s full commitment to youth inclusion and development. The representative conveyed the Senate President’s message, pledging to walk alongside the youth to actualize their goals and dreams.

    ‎‎”The Nigerian Senate stands firmly with the youth. We are ready to walk with you to actualize your goals. Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this administration is committed to inclusivity and ensuring that Nigerian youths are not just heard, but fully involved in governance and nation-building,” the representative stated.

    ‎The Senate’s pledge echoed the core message of the retreat, the urgent need to strengthen youth structures for meaningful engagement in governance, policy development, entrepreneurship, and social innovation. According to participants, this year’s retreat marks a turning point in repositioning the NYCN as a more effective and unified body.

    ‎Delivering his keynote address, Comrade Solomon Adodo thanked all participants, facilitators, and government stakeholders for their active involvement and solidarity. He emphasized that his leadership remains deeply committed to steering NYCN with integrity, vision, and a sense of national responsibility.

    ‎”This retreat is not just another gathering; it is a movement for realignment, reawakening, and reinvention of youth leadership in Nigeria. We must lead with purpose, unity, and a renewed sense of direction. The NYCN under my leadership will remain committed to purposeful leadership and to building an institution that reflects the best of Nigerian youth,” Adodo said.

    ‎The retreat features strategy workshops, leadership training, policy review sessions, and collaborative dialogues focused on youth participation in governance, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. It also offers a platform to review NYCN’s past achievements and reposition the Council to play a stronger role in national discourse.

    ‎Under Adodo’s administration, NYCN has seen a revival in national engagement, from grassroots mobilization to policy advocacy, digital literacy drives, peace missions, and climate action campaigns. The current leadership has also led efforts to bridge the gap between government and youth voices, ensuring the NYCN serves as a bridge for inclusive growth.

    ‎Participants at the retreat expressed optimism that the resolutions and outcomes will help strengthen internal cohesion, promote leadership accountability, and advance youth-led initiatives that align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.

    ‎As the retreat continues, expectations remain high that the NYCN will emerge more united, impactful, and strategic in delivering on its mandate to represent the interests of over 70 million Nigerian youths.

  • Ambode Mourns Buhari, Hails Ex-President’s Contributions to National Unity ‎

    Ambode Mourns Buhari, Hails Ex-President’s Contributions to National Unity ‎

    • ..Says Buhari’s support for Lagos marked him as a true nationalist and visionary leader

    ‎Former Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has joined millions of Nigerians in mourning the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a statesman whose leadership embodied integrity, patriotism, and an unwavering commitment to the ideals of national unity and progress.
    ‎
    ‎In a solemn tribute, Ambode recounted the personal and institutional support Buhari extended to Lagos State during his administration, emphasizing that the former president’s actions reflected his deep appreciation for the state’s strategic importance.
    ‎
    ‎“President Buhari was a strong and ardent supporter of Lagos State,” Ambode stated. “During my tenure as Governor, he granted us significant concessions, including the permission to upgrade the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Road to a multi-carriage highway and the handover of several federal properties like the Presidential Lodge in Marina.”
    ‎
    ‎He noted that Buhari’s decisions were not merely political gestures but signs of visionary leadership anchored in fairness, equity, and a desire to see every part of Nigeria thrive.
    ‎
    ‎“President Buhari led with dignity, calm resolve, and a fear of God. His belief in the promise of our nation and his deep sense of responsibility to the people defined his time in office,” Ambode said.
    ‎
    ‎While extending condolences to the Buhari family and the nation, Ambode prayed for peace for the departed and comfort for those left behind. “On behalf of my family and myself, I offer our deepest condolences. May Almighty Allah accept his good deeds and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.”

    ‎Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, is widely remembered for his firm stance on anti-corruption, discipline in governance, and national cohesion.

    ‎As tributes continue to pour in, Ambode’s message highlights the enduring legacy Buhari leaves behind, a legacy of service, principle, and commitment to Nigeria’s unity.