Ademola Lookman, the renowned Nigerian footballer, officially presented his CAF Player of the Year trophy to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the president’s recent visit to Lagos. The special presentation took place at the Lagos State Government House on Friday, where Lookman was warmly welcomed by both Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and President Tinubu. President Tinubu’s visit to Lagos spanned two days, and this symbolic moment formed part of the engagements during his stay in the state. Lookman, who was honoured as Africa’s Best Footballer at a grand ceremony in Marrakech, Morocco in December, continues to enjoy widespread recognition for his outstanding achievements on and off the pitch. The 27-year-old forward took over the award from fellow Nigerian star Victor Osimhen, who clinched the prestigious title in 2023. His award is largely credited to his brilliant performance with the Super Eagles during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations held in Côte d’Ivoire, where he found the net three times and delivered one assist across seven competitive fixtures. Moreover, Lookman’s impact at the club level was just as significant. He was instrumental in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph, most notably by scoring a memorable hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen. This historic feat not only cemented his legacy as one of Nigeria’s most successful footballers in recent times but also strengthened his reputation across the global football scene.
Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly agreed to extend his contract with Al-Nassr until June 2026, securing his position as the highest-paid footballer globally. The new deal is said to offer him an annual salary exceeding €200 million, along with a 5% ownership stake in the club, highlighting his significant influence both on and off the pitch. Since joining Al-Nassr in January 2023, Ronaldo has made a substantial impact, scoring 93 goals and providing 19 assists in 105 appearances. Despite the club’s challenges in securing major titles, Ronaldo’s individual performance has been exceptional, leading the Saudi Pro League in goals for two consecutive seasons. The contract extension aligns with Ronaldo’s ambition to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as he continues to be a pivotal figure for the Portuguese national team. Additionally, his new role as a part-owner of Al-Nassr signifies a deeper commitment to the club’s long-term vision and the growth of football in Saudi Arabia.
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American rapper Offset has officially requested spousal support from his estranged wife, Cardi B, as their divorce process intensifies. According to LMSINT MEDIA, Cardi B initiated divorce proceedings against Offset back in August 2024, citing irreconcilable differences as the basis for their separation. Offset formally responded to the petition in February 2025, where he sought joint custody of their three children. He also proposed that the children primarily reside in Cardi B’s home. In a recent update to his response, Offset included a demand for spousal support as part of the divorce agreement. As reported by TMZ, Offset did not disclose a specific financial figure in his request. However, he did urge the court to ensure an equitable division of legal expenses between both parties. For context, Cardi B and Offset were married in a private ceremony back in 2017, marking the beginning of their high-profile union in the music industry.
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Nigerian entertainer Nasboi, widely recognized for his transition from comedy to music, has initiated a unique 36-day campaign journey across Nigeria’s 36 states in a bid to collaborate with Afrobeat superstar Davido. The campaign, which commenced recently, involves Nasboi kneeling in front of government establishments in each state, as a symbolic gesture of his earnest appeal for a musical feature from Davido. According to Nasboi, this unconventional tour is a heartfelt move following several unsuccessful attempts to get the singer’s attention. The talented artist revealed that he has spent the past five years impersonating Davido’s style and sound, hoping to capture his notice and earn a spot on a track with him. Despite his consistent efforts, a collaboration has not materialized—prompting this countrywide public plea. Nasboi made the announcement through an Instagram post that included a photograph of him kneeling while holding a placard in front of the Osun State Government Secretariat. The image marked the official start of the campaign. Continuing his effort, he was also seen on Thursday kneeling in front of the Kano State Government House, maintaining his pledge to traverse all 36 states on bent knees. In his Instagram caption, he expressed hope and urged fans to support him by tagging @davido in every post related to the campaign. He wrote: “I will be kneeling across the 36 states for 36 days. I pray this dream comes to pass. Please just tag @davido everyday when you see the post.” Nasboi’s campaign has begun gaining online traction as fans rally behind his determination and resilience. The story continues to unfold as he journeys across Nigeria, state by state, fueled by his passion for music and admiration for Davido.
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Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has provided new details regarding the tragic death of his sister, Atsi Kefas, who was initially believed to have been killed by bandits along the Wukari-Chinkai Road in 2024. In a recent press briefing in Jalingo, the state capital, Governor Kefas revealed that investigations have determined that Atsi was fatally shot by a police escort assigned to his mother. The incident occurred while Atsi and their mother were traveling from Jalingo to Abuja. Governor Kefas expressed his deep sorrow, stating, “Life is very precious to me. You can’t just end someone’s life and think God will be happy with you. My younger sister was shot and killed by a police escort who was inside the same bus with her.” Further investigations revealed that Atsi was shot at close range, and pellets from the firearm were found in her body during surgery before she succumbed to her injuries. The police officer involved is currently under investigation to ensure that justice is served. This revelation contradicts earlier reports that suggested the vehicle transporting the governor’s mother and sister had been attacked by bandits attempting to kidnap them. Governor Kefas emphasized the importance of justice and accountability in this matter. In addition to addressing his sister’s death, Governor Kefas spoke about the recent violent attack in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area, where over 50 people were reportedly killed. He observed a minute of silence in memory of his sister and the victims of the Karim-Lamido incident. The governor condemned the escalating violence in parts of the state and urged residents to choose peace and unity over conflict. Governor Kefas announced plans to establish a commission of inquiry to investigate the causes of the Karim-Lamido crisis and propose measures for lasting peace in the region. As of now, the Taraba State Police Command has not issued an official statement regarding the governor’s claims.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:8). There’s a difference between the Holy Spirit coming upon you and the Holy Spirit dwelling in you. From the day of Pentecost in Acts chapter 2, the reason for the Holy Spirit coming upon anyone was to take up residence within them. And that’s what has happened with us. In the Old Testament, He came upon people to enable them to fulfil a specific purpose for a particular time. Various individuals experienced this, including Elizabeth, upon whom the Holy Spirit came and she was filled with the Holy Ghost: “And it came to pass, that when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost” (Luke 1:41). The Holy Spirit also came upon Samson, empowering him to accomplish mighty feats, but he was not filled with the Holy Ghost: “And the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and he rent him as he would have rent a kid, and he had nothing in his hand…” (Judges 14:6). Now, as one who has received the Holy Spirit, you have been endowed with power to accomplish extraordinary things. The Bible declares, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…” (Acts 1:8). The word “power” here is from the Greek “dunamis,” meaning the dynamic ability to cause changes. Consider the significance of this: God says you have received the ability to effect changes. Why then should you remain in an undesirable situation, crying and pleading with God to intervene about things you can change? So, go ahead and effect a change. After receiving the Holy Spirit, the apostles lived in the reality of His indwelling presence. Each one of them operated in the supernatural. That’s the same life He’s given you. Being filled with the Holy Spirit, you’ve been endued and equipped with divine ability to effect changes and walk in the supernatural every day PRAYERDear Father, thank you for filling me with the Holy Spirit and empowering me with divine ability to effect changes in my world. I walk in the consciousness of your indwelling presence, manifesting your wisdom, power and glory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYLuke 24:49And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. Acts 2:8 AMPCThen how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own (particular) dialect to which we were born Ephesians 3:14-16 AMPCFor this reason [seeing the greatness of this plan by which you are built together in Christ], I bow my knees before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 For Whom every family in heaven and on earth is named [that Father from Whom all fatherhood takes its title and derives its name]. 16 May He grant you out of the rich treasury of His glory to be strengthened and reinforced with mighty power in the inner man by the [Holy] Spirit [Himself indwelling your innermost being and personality]. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 15:1-17 & 1 Chronicles 3-4 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 14:12-21 & Numbers 33 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: Great power for prosperity and control are put in my hands. I’m exalted to a position of authority. Much more is committed to me spiritually, materially, and financially. In every aspect of my life, I am exalted and magnified. My greatness is increased because I am an heir of God; therefore, the silver is mine, and the gold is mine; the world belongs to me. God’s wisdom is operative in me. This wisdom beautifies my life and causes me to inherit substance. The angels of wealth attend to me. The angel of money responds to me. The grace of God is working in me mightily and evidently. I experience a quantum leap in grace. I walk in exponential grace, and I take advantage of the grace of God. I’ve been graced to reign in this life through righteousness. I make decrees, and they’re established because I function in, and with, the authority of Christ. I refuse sickness, failure, defeat, and death. I reject anything that’s not of God, and I endorse only that which is consistent with His perfect will for me. I recognize and affirm who the Lord has made me to be. I am one spirit with the Lord; therefore, Satan and his minions have no right to run rampage or perpetrate evil in my life or my environment. I refuse every symptom of sickness or disease from my body. I rejoice because the Lord Jesus has overcome this world for me. Divine life is working in my body! From the crown of my head to the soles of my feet, my entire being is energized by the Holy Spirit who lives in me and invigorates me through and through. Everything connected to me is infused with eternal life and divine energy. I have the Spirit of life living in me, guiding me, energizing me, and strengthening me. That joy produces laughter deep in my spirit, causing my health to bloom and flourish. Nothing can weigh me down. I know no depression or oppression because I am buoyed by joy unspeakable overflowing in my heart. I walk in health, divine wisdom, and in the joy and peace of the Spirit today and always, in Jesus’ name. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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As Nigeria reflects on two years of leadership under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is crucial to assess this journey through the lens of business, economic growth, and industry development. Speaking as the Chairman of BUA Group—one of Africa’s most diversified conglomerates—and as someone deeply involved in Nigeria’s evolving economic reforms, I have witnessed both the costs of inefficiency and the rewards of bold governance. Eliminating the Fuel Subsidy The removal of fuel subsidy stands as one of the defining economic decisions of this administration. Previously, petrol was sold in Nigeria for as low as ₦200–₦250 per litre—equivalent to around 25–30 cents—an amount unsustainable by global standards. During a trip to Saudi Arabia for lesser Hajj earlier this year, I observed that fuel prices there, converted to naira, were nearly ₦1,500 per litre. Nigeria was essentially funding cheaper petrol for neighboring countries. I recall being told by former President Bazoum of Niger Republic that nearly 100% of their PMS consumption came from Nigeria. With the removal of the subsidy, fuel consumption in Nigeria has dropped by 40–50%. This is not due to decreased local demand but because foreign siphoning has significantly reduced. Subsidy removal ensured that only Nigerians benefit from imported fuel. The financial resources previously allocated for subsidy are now being redirected into critical infrastructure, state funding, and developmental programs. The states are now receiving increased allocations, enabling them to make tangible impacts. President Tinubu made this necessary, though controversial, decision on his first day in office—a move that arguably saved the country from financial collapse. Foreign Exchange Market Reform Another key reform is the unification of the foreign exchange regime. Before this, businesses like mine had to constantly seek foreign currency allocations from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), which was exhausting and unsustainable. The official FX rate from the CBN stood at around ₦500, while the parallel market soared to ₦800–₦900. Now, under the reformed FX market, business operations are smoother and less dependent on government bureaucracy. I no longer need to make frequent visits to Abuja to secure foreign exchange. With a transparent and accessible FX system in place, businesses can focus on growth rather than administrative hurdles. Stability, Transparency, and Confidence in Business There is a noticeable improvement in the business climate under President Tinubu. Arbitrary decisions and politically influenced business shutdowns have declined. For instance, BUA Foods once faced an abrupt shutdown at its Port Harcourt facility due to personal biases within the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). That kind of abuse of power has drastically reduced. The Port Harcourt plant, which saw over $500 million in investment and employed over 4,000 Nigerians, now operates with stability and confidence. The environment today no longer demands presidential access for fair treatment. Businesses are judged on merit, and government agencies are held accountable. Infrastructure Investment as an Economic Catalyst The reallocation of funds from subsidy savings and FX reform is evident in large-scale infrastructure projects. Roads such as the Lagos-Calabar highway, Sokoto-Badagry route, Kwara tax credit projects, and the Kano-Kongolam road are progressing. These projects are reducing logistics bottlenecks and stimulating business growth by lowering transportation costs. Continued Investment and National Confidence Since Tinubu took office, BUA Group has invested over $1 billion in expanding operations, including doubling flour and pasta plants in Port Harcourt and Lagos. The group also commissioned Nigeria’s first POP plaster plant and is launching a 30MW solar power project in Sokoto State. Furthermore, the BUA LNG project in Ajaokuta is nearing completion. A stable exchange rate and open FX access have fueled this wave of investment. Investors can now access up to $200 million weekly for trade without lobbying. Tackling Food Insecurity with Practical Solutions President Tinubu also addressed food price inflation. His six-month tariff waiver disrupted the harmful practice of rice hoarding. Typically, post-harvest scarcity would push rice prices up to ₦110,000 per bag due to artificial shortages. The waiver enabled immediate milling of imported rice, effectively sidelining hoarders and stabilizing prices—a clear demonstration of policy foresight. The “Nigeria First” Policy and Local Production The President’s “Nigeria First” initiative aligns with BUA’s commitment to backward integration. BUA’s cement production relies almost entirely on local inputs—limestone from Nigerian mines and locally sourced gas. Without this domestic capability, cement prices could have surpassed ₦15,000 per bag, given port and import limitations. This policy supports local industries, stimulates employment, and protects the economy from global price shocks. With its natural resources, population, and renewed leadership, Nigeria is primed for sustainable growth. Final Thoughts President Tinubu’s administration has made three game-changing decisions: fuel subsidy removal, FX market unification, and the establishment of fairness and transparency in the economy. These actions have laid a solid foundation for national development. With bold leadership and pro-business reforms, Nigeria’s potential is finally being unlocked.
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Mr. Lere Olayinka, the Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, has issued a strong rebuttal to Senator Ireti Kingibe regarding her criticisms of the ongoing enforcement of ground rent collection by the FCT Administration. According to a report by LMSINT MEDIA, Senator Kingibe, who serves as the Labour Party representative for the FCT in the Senate, had voiced concerns over the recent sealing of properties in the capital, labeling the move unconstitutional. In her statement, Senator Kingibe emphasized that although citizens must fulfill their tax responsibilities, the default on ground rent alone does not legally justify the forceful confiscation or sealing of private properties. Reacting to her remarks, Olayinka clarified in a Thursday press release in Abuja that the senator appeared unfamiliar with the Land Use Act. He argued that the Act clearly outlines the conditions that accompany land allocation, including the mandatory annual payment of ground rent, even in the absence of a formal demand notice. He further described Kingibe’s position as unfounded and politically motivated. “Land comes with obligations,” Olayinka stated, “and one of those is consistent payment of ground rent.” Olayinka urged Senator Kingibe not to exploit the enforcement campaign as a political tactic. He criticized her understanding of the legal framework, stating, “It is alarming that a serving senator appears unaware of Section 28, Subsections (a) and (b) of the Land Use Act.” He explained that the law empowers the government to revoke statutory rights of occupancy based on any breach outlined in the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), including failure to meet financial obligations like ground rent. Quoting the law, he added, “‘The Government may revoke a Statutory Right of Occupancy on the ground of; (a) a breach of any of the provisions which a certificate of occupancy is by Section 10 deemed to contain; and (b) a breach of any term contained in the Certificate of Occupancy.’” Olayinka questioned if the senator would tolerate a scenario where individuals fail to pay ground rent for periods ranging from 10 to 43 years, particularly if she were the one in charge of the FCT Ministry. It should be noted that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) initiated a widespread recovery campaign on Monday, targeting over 4,794 properties revoked due to non-payment of ground rent. The cumulative debt has exceeded ₦6 billion. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has since extended a 14-day grace period for property owners to clear their outstanding rent and related penalties.
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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has praised President Bola Tinubu’s performance in Abuja over the past two years, describing it as unmatched in the history of the capital city. Wike made these remarks in Abuja on Thursday after a series of project inspections ahead of the upcoming celebrations to mark Tinubu’s second year in office. He expressed immense satisfaction with the progress and results achieved under Tinubu’s leadership, particularly within the FCT. According to the minister, “this level of accomplishment has never been witnessed before.” Wike emphasized that President Tinubu’s influence could be felt across all regions in the country, and based on what citizens are experiencing, many are already advocating for a second term. “The strides Tinubu has made in the FCT are truly unprecedented. Over the next two and four years, Nigerians will witness even greater transformation,” Wike stated. He noted that previous criticisms about the poor state of Abuja had now shifted, as even the skeptics now acknowledge that the city is functioning effectively. “Let’s be honest, we all once criticized Abuja for not progressing. But today, those same voices admit that things are now working. Who made this possible? It is the President,” he declared. Wike reaffirmed his commitment to the task entrusted to him by President Tinubu—to reshape Abuja into a modern, respectable capital city that all Nigerians can take pride in. During his site visits, Wike explained that the aim was to monitor project delivery timelines and ensure contractors meet expectations. He shared his satisfaction with the completion of the Apo to Wassa Junction Road, the left service lane of the Outer Southern Expressway, which he confirmed is now fully completed. “We also inspected the N20 Interchange, which connects Wole Soyinka Way to Murtala Mohammed Expressway—commonly known as Kubwa Expressway. This project is on track for completion and commissioning,” Wike reported. He further inspected the link road from Obafemi Awolowo Way to the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal in Dakibiyu District, another vital project approaching finalization. “Honestly, the people of Abuja deserve the highest standards, and the contractors are truly delivering. I assure you that I will not settle for anything less,” Wike maintained. He added that President Tinubu insists on top-quality infrastructure for Nigerians and that the administration will strive to meet this expectation. “The level of infrastructure, especially road networks, is extraordinary. And we will not stop. The progress continues,” he said. Wike also urged FCT residents to fulfill their civic duties and cooperate with the government for the advancement of the city and the nation as a whole.
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A devastating overnight flood has claimed at least 21 lives and left many others missing after a powerful rainfall triggered severe flooding in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State. The flood, which occurred late Tuesday night, followed several hours of heavy downpour, catching both residents and travelers by surprise. Local reports indicate that over 50 homes were completely submerged, particularly in the communities of Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa, the worst-hit areas within Mokwa town. Witnesses described scenes of panic and destruction as the flood swept through the neighborhoods, dragging away buildings and vehicles in its path. Several cars, including private vehicles, trucks, and commercial transport buses, were either submerged or rendered immobile due to rising waters. In the chaos, drivers and passengers were seen attempting to maneuver through the intense floodwaters, with no immediate signs of organized rescue efforts at the time. By the time authorities responded, 21 bodies had been recovered, among them a woman and her two children. Several people were still unaccounted for, and search operations continued throughout the day. Victims rescued from the disaster, including the aforementioned woman and her children, are currently receiving emergency care at Mokwa General Hospital, according to hospital sources. The Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed the tragic incident in an official statement, saying: “There was a torrential downpour of very high intensity that lasted several hours, and the surging floodwaters submerged and washed away over 50 residential houses with their occupants.” He added that rescue teams comprising NSEMA officials, local government authorities, experienced divers, and community volunteers were mobilized for ongoing search and recovery operations. “As of now, 21 corpses have been retrieved, and efforts are underway to find more survivors. The three currently rescued— a woman and her two children — are receiving medical care for injuries and trauma at Mokwa General Hospital.” The flooding disaster has sparked calls for immediate environmental and infrastructural intervention in flood-prone regions of Niger State.
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Popular American model and media icon, Hailey Bieber, has reportedly sold her skincare and cosmetics brand, Rhode, in a high-profile acquisition deal worth $1 billion to beauty giant E.l.f Beauty. Hailey disclosed the milestone acquisition via a post shared on her official Instagram Story on Wednesday night. The update on her Instagram story read: “E.I.f acquired Hailey Bieber’s Rhode in a $1 billion deal.” According to details surrounding the agreement, E.l.f Beauty is purchasing Rhode for $800 million in cash and stock, with an extra $200 million dependent on the brand’s future sales targets and overall performance. Although the finalization of the transaction is projected to conclude later in 2025, Hailey Bieber is expected to retain her leadership role as CEO and Head of Innovation at Rhode. Additionally, she will also serve as a strategic advisor within the E.l.f Beauty corporation. As previously reported by LMSINT MEDIA, Hailey Bieber co-founded Rhode in the year 2022, quickly establishing the brand as a disruptive force within the beauty and skincare industry.
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Nigeria’s Minister of State for Industry, John Enoh, has affirmed that decisive interventions by the federal government have effectively resolved several key issues that previously compelled industries to shut down or exit the country. Speaking during the second anniversary celebration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the minister highlighted how government initiatives have targeted critical obstacles that once hindered industrial operations in Nigeria. According to Enoh, challenges related to electricity supply, infrastructure development, access to affordable short-term financing, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and the overall ease of doing business have been systematically addressed under the current administration. These targeted efforts, he noted, have sparked renewed confidence among investors and business owners in the industrial sector. “These very challenges were the main drivers behind the exodus and closure of industries in the past. We have focused our efforts on thematic areas such as power supply, infrastructure, affordable financing, and eliminating red tape. These interventions are ongoing,” the minister explained. He added that the Tinubu-led government has fostered an atmosphere of trust and predictability for industry stakeholders, significantly reducing the trend of factory closures and positioning the country for broader industrial expansion. “The confidence this administration has restored in the system has halted the wave of industrial closures. We are witnessing renewed interest and commitment to growing local industries and creating sustainable environments for investment,” Enoh said. Enoh further emphasized that President Tinubu recognizes the strategic role of the industrial sector in Nigeria’s economic transformation. Reflecting this priority, Tinubu appointed Enoh specifically to focus on industrial development rather than merging the portfolio with trade and investment, which had previously been the case. Reassuring the public, the minister noted that since the administration assumed office, no significant reports of industrial closures have been recorded. Instead, industry owners have expressed increased confidence in the direction of the economy, supported by proactive government policies that safeguard business continuity.
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“Too Much Politics, Not Enough Economic Strategy,” Economist Warns According to renowned economist and columnist Dr. Dele Sobowale, President Bola Tinubu inherited a severely mismanaged economy from the very administration he played a pivotal role in installing. While Nigerians continue to express frustrations over economic hardships, Dr. Sobowale argues that Tinubu’s government has not only failed to resolve inherited issues but has potentially made them worse. At Vanguard Newspaper’s Conference Hall, Sobowale clarified that the Tinubu administration began its tenure on shaky economic ground. However, despite this starting point, the current government has yet to effectively address the financial instability or improve conditions for businesses and citizens alike. Examining the Renewed Hope Agenda Dr. Sobowale critiqued the administration’s policy document, the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” labeling it unfit for establishing a robust economic program. “He inherited a chaotic system—one he helped to create,” Sobowale explained. After carefully reviewing the document, he described it as filled with unachievable political promises, rather than actionable economic stratehttps://lmsint.com.ng/wike-vows-tax-reforms-in-fct-promises-action-on-ground-rent-arrears/gies. He further criticized Tinubu’s plan to build upon the policies of the Buhari administration, a strategy Sobowale equates to constructing on a crumbled foundation. “The government leaned too heavily into politics and made economic commitments that were never realistic,” he said. For example, Tinubu promised 2.06 million barrels of crude oil per day by 2025, despite the country averaging only 1.5 mbpd so far—far below target. Another critical mistake, according to Sobowale, was the inclusion of too many of Tinubu’s former allies from Lagos in federal roles. “Lagos is not Nigeria. Effective governance at a national level demands broader, long-term experience,” he stated. Deepening Security Crisis On the topic of national security, Dr. Sobowale recounted personal experiences during his time in northern Nigeria. With firsthand knowledge of the region, he emphasized that widespread security lapses date back decades, citing over 800 illegal border entries as early as the 1990s. He pointed to ongoing ethnic and religious violence in states like Borno, Taraba, and Benue as evidence of a multifaceted crisis that extends beyond insurgencies like Boko Haram and ISWAP. The local populations in areas like Gboko and Plateau State are now taking justice into their own hands due to diminishing trust in the government’s ability to protect them. Sobowale warned that such developments signify the emergence of uncontrolled ethnic conflicts alongside terrorism. He criticized decisions such as Borno State Governor Zulum’s unilateral pardon of former Boko Haram members, calling it a grave mistake. “This action has released dangerous individuals back into society and overwhelmed security agencies already struggling with too many threats,” he lamented. Economic Direction and Budget Concerns Sobowale, who has been analyzing Nigerian federal budgets since 1988, compared current financial planning to that of a mismanaged company. “Budgets should be promises made to the shareholders—in this case, the citizens,” he said. Referring to Tinubu’s projected N54 trillion budget, he questioned its feasibility based on historical performance and current realities. He argued that Nigeria’s repeated projection of producing 2 million barrels of oil per day has proven consistently unattainable for over a decade. “Why do we continue to base our economic planning on targets we’ve never achieved?” he questioned. Sobowale advocated for realistic budgeting, which would likely require reducing government size and expenditures, such as scaling down from 48 ministers to a more sustainable number. Looking Ahead Sobowale concluded by stressing that fiscal realism would instill discipline across all sectors. Unrealistic economic projections, he warned, set families and the nation up for financial strain, debt, and potential corruption. “When expectations are based on inflated figures, disappointment becomes inevitable,” he noted. Using a corporate analogy, he emphasized how failing to meet projected revenues in the private sector would lead to leadership changes—an accountability standard sorely missing in public governance. He doubted whether Nigeria’s GDP goals are realistic and likened them to promising shareholders $600 billion and delivering only $170 billion. “In a corporate boardroom, you’d be removed instantly for such failure,” Sobowale concluded.
