The atmosphere was heavy with grief at the Ibadan residence of Mr. Odunayo Alade. The once lively home, filled with children’s laughter, now echoed with sorrow as friends, neighbors, and sympathizers gathered to mourn the untimely death of 13-year-old Kehinde. Kehinde, a student at Jislord High School, was en route to his elder brother Emmanuel’s West African Senior School Certificate Examination, accompanied by his twin brother Taiwo and their father. During their journey, a police officer fired at their vehicle, resulting in Kehinde’s death. Mr. Alade recounted the incident, explaining that officers from the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), alongside police personnel, attempted to stop his vehicle on Old Ife Road, Alakia. In a bid to avoid delay, he tried to bypass them, unaware of the armed officers. Suddenly, a gunshot rang out, and Kehinde cried out, “Daddy!” The grieving father, who has five children, including the three sons in the car during the incident, expressed his anguish and called for justice. In the aftermath, enraged youths transported Kehinde’s body to the state secretariat at Agodi, demanding accountability and urging Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene. The body was subsequently taken to the Adeoyo Hospital morgue. The Oyo State Government, through the Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, stated that Mr. Alade was driving against traffic in a tinted black Honda Accord when the police officer fired the fatal shot. However, Mr. Alade refuted these claims, asserting that only the rear glass was tinted and that the officers could see the occupants of the car. Observations at the scene revealed that the junction where the incident occurred is often used by motorists to cut into the opposite lane, despite the official turning point being further down the road. A local vulcanizer, Saheed, noted that drivers frequently take this shortcut when the road is clear. Taiwo, Kehinde’s twin, expressed his deep sorrow, stating, “I loved my brother so much. I miss him. How I wish he were still here with me.” Family members described the twins as inseparable. Mrs. Peter Funmilayo, a neighbor who was in the car during the incident, recalled that one of the traffic officers opened the car door, saw the children, and closed it again. She emphasized that they were unaware of the armed policemen until the gunshot was fired. Kehinde’s maternal aunt, Olabisi Animashaun, shared her shock upon learning of his death through a call from his mother. A family friend and church member, Fajobi Olumide, remembered Kehinde as a humble and talented drummer who had recently performed at a church service. Dr. Segun Olaniyi of Welfare Hospital stated that Kehinde was brought in with a gunshot wound that had penetrated his abdomen, likely severing a major blood vessel. Despite efforts to stabilize him and transfer him to the University College Hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival. Chief Onaolapo Adegbayi, the Baale of Adegbayi and a retired military officer, condemned the police officer’s actions, emphasizing that the appropriate response would have been to arrest Mr. Alade without resorting to shooting. Human rights groups have called for justice. Debo Adeniran, National President of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, criticized the practice of ambushing motorists, labeling it a tactic for extortion. Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Clement Onwuenwunor, stated that traffic offenses are not capital crimes and that the officer should be tried for manslaughter. Tiamiyu Ademola, Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students, Oyo State, issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the police to disclose the identity of the officer responsible for Kehinde’s death.
The Nigerian Federal Government has issued a stern warning to international airlines, cautioning them against transporting travelers into the country without valid entry visas. The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, emphasized that any airline violating Nigeria’s immigration regulations will face immediate sanctions. Speaking during a Stakeholders’ Sensitisation Meeting on the implementation of the e-Visa system, as well as the Landing and Exit Card, held in Lagos, Tunji-Ojo made it clear that from now on, all airlines must comply strictly with immigration requirements. He stated, “The directive regarding visas is now in effect. Passengers must have a valid visa before boarding flights to Nigeria. Any airline that allows a traveler without a visa to board is engaging in illegal activity.” The Interior Minister criticized the act of flying individuals from Europe, Asia, or other regions into Nigeria without proper documentation. He urged airline representatives to uphold national security and sovereignty, emphasizing their duty as stakeholders in the nation’s security infrastructure. He further explained that airlines operating in Nigeria must verify the entry visa status of each passenger before check-in. “Do not allow anyone to board a plane to Nigeria without confirming they hold a valid visa,” he warned. New Enforcement Date: August 1 The Minister announced that enforcement of the Landing and Exit Card system will officially begin on August 1. This system is part of a broader strategy to streamline entry and exit tracking at Nigerian borders. Rise in e-Visa Adoption Tunji-Ojo highlighted the encouraging response to Nigeria’s new e-Visa system, noting that nearly 6,000 applications have been received since the initiative was introduced. Over 5,000 e-Visas have already been issued. He added, “Although Nigeria is somewhat late in adopting this digital visa model, it’s better late than never. Many countries implemented e-visas years ago, and we are catching up.” The minister emphasized that obtaining a Nigerian visa should not require knowing a top official. Instead, visa issuance must become a streamlined, transparent process. “Visas aren’t merely tools for managing migration,” he noted. “They serve as instruments for economic empowerment and national development. Tourists and business visitors contribute to the economy by staying in hotels, shopping, using local transport, and investing in local ventures.” Tunji-Ojo pointed to countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Singapore, and Morocco as examples of nations that have experienced economic growth through efficient migration and visa management systems. He added that under Nigeria’s e-Visa policy, applicants from 13 eligible categories can now obtain their visas within 48 hours, significantly reducing bureaucratic delays.
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The United States has introduced a transformative commercial diplomacy approach in Sub-Saharan Africa, signaling a strategic departure from traditional aid-focused models to one centered on sustainable investment. Ambassador Michael Fitrell, the lead figure behind the strategy, emphasized that this new model aims to ignite Africa’s economic growth by building mutually beneficial partnerships rather than one-sided aid programs. “Our priority is to advance American national interests, open up global markets for US businesses, and champion essential market reforms,” Fitrell stated. He further revealed that this shift in strategy has already begun to bear fruit, with over 33 new commercial agreements totaling $6 billion secured within the first 100 days of implementation. The Lobito Corridor: A Landmark Infrastructure Project One standout initiative under the strategy is the Lobito Corridor project, an ambitious infrastructure plan linking Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This project highlights the United States’ intent to attract private sector capital through its deep capital markets and to encourage multilateral stakeholders to support African development ventures. Strategic Engagement in West Africa Ambassador Davis Ba, who participated in a recent diplomatic mission to Côte d’Ivoire, reported the signing of agreements valued at over $700 million. These deals cover key sectors such as digital innovation and energy infrastructure—two critical pillars for the region’s long-term economic stability. He also pointed out that this strategy introduces a reciprocal trade framework, including discussions on improved trade conditions and the possibility of developing free trade areas with African nations. AGOA Revision and Upcoming African Leaders Summit The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is currently under review to better align with modern trade expectations and to ensure reciprocal benefits for both the US and participating African countries. Additionally, the United States plans to host an African Leaders Summit later this year. The summit aims to broaden economic collaboration and reinforce regional peace and security. Ambassador Ba emphasized the importance of inclusive engagement from every corner of the continent. “We foresee a promising future for Africa, driven by formal economies and a dynamic private sector,” said Ba. “This is not just a change in approach—it’s a new chapter in US-Africa relations, built on investment, commerce, and equal partnership.” A New Era of US-Africa Relations This strategic realignment represents a new era in diplomatic relations between the United States and Sub-Saharan Africa. With a firm commitment to investment-led development and sustainable trade, the approach highlights the shared objectives of economic prosperity and long-term stability.
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As President Bola Tinubu approaches the midpoint of his tenure, a critical evaluation of his administration’s performance reveals a nation grappling with unmet expectations. Despite the ambitious promises outlined in the “Renewed Hope” agenda, many Nigerians find themselves facing economic hardships, security challenges, and a sense of disillusionment. Public Sentiment and Perception A nationwide survey conducted by a consultancy firm posed two questions to Nigerians across various demographics: The responses were overwhelmingly negative, with only 3% affirming improvement and a mere 1% expressing optimism for the future. This indicates a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction and eroded trust in political leadership. Economic Performance Gross Domestic Product (GDP) The “Renewed Hope” document projected a 10% annual GDP growth. However, actual figures tell a different story: These numbers fall significantly short of the ambitious targets, highlighting a disconnect between projections and reality. Housing The administration aimed to double the housing stock annually, reaching six times the 2023 levels by 2028. However, the lack of clear metrics and the demolition of existing structures have resulted in negligible progress. Employment The National Bureau of Statistics reported a 4.3% unemployment rate, suggesting near full employment. Yet, this figure is contested, with estimates indicating approximately 47 million Nigerians unemployed. The redefinition of employment metrics has further muddied the waters, casting doubt on the authenticity of official statistics. Power Supply Despite some improvements in power generation, distribution remains stagnant. Nigeria’s electricity generation stands at 11TWh, with less than 5TWh distributed, undermining economic growth and development. Crude Oil Production The goal to increase crude oil production to 2.6 million barrels per day (mbpd) by 2027 appears unattainable. As of early 2025, production hovers around 1.4 mbpd, falling short of OPEC quotas and national targets. Challenges such as underinvestment, infrastructure decay, and oil theft persist. Security Challenges The administration pledged to enhance national security. However, recent events paint a grim picture: Beneficiaries of Government Policies While the majority of Nigerians face economic hardships, certain sectors have benefited: This disparity raises questions about the inclusivity and fairness of economic reforms. Recommendations for the Way Forward Conclusion The midterm assessment of President Tinubu’s administration reveals significant gaps between aspirations and achievements. Addressing these issues requires transparent communication, strategic planning, and inclusive policies that prioritize the well-being of all Nigerians.
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Popular Nigerian music star David Adeleke, widely known by his stage name Davido, recently made a courtesy call to Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, in Abuja. Accompanying him was influential nightlife promoter and socialite Pascal Okechukwu, better known as Cubana Chief Priest. The high-profile visit took place at Akpabio’s official residence in the Federal Capital Territory. A video clip of the interaction was posted by Cubana Chief Priest on his verified Instagram account on Thursday. In the footage, Senate President Akpabio is seen addressing Davido and his delegation while referencing a document in his hand. In the caption accompanying the video, Cubana Chief Priest offered words of inspiration to his followers, saying, “Surround yourself with individuals who mirror your envisioned future.” He further captioned it with phrases like “Abuja nights with Naija 003” and “A person close to OBO holds great influence.” His message urged fans to align themselves with individuals who reflect their ambitions and desired destiny, hinting at the power of association and influence in one’s journey to success.
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Liverpool’s forward, Mohamed Salah, has declared that this year offers him the greatest possibility yet to secure the prestigious Ballon d’Or title. The Egyptian international has been instrumental in Liverpool’s successful season, culminating in the Premier League championship victory. Currently, the 32-year-old has amassed an impressive 28 goals alongside 18 assists across all competitions. Salah is also the frontrunner in the Golden Boot race for the league’s top scorer. The announcement of the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner is scheduled for September 22, and Salah is widely considered one of the leading candidates. “I don’t think I’ve ever experienced a season quite like this, especially with major titles to show for it,” Salah said during an interview with Sky Sports. “This is probably the best shot I’ve had at winning it, considering the kind of season we’ve had—it’s been wild and filled with achievements.” Despite his dominant performance, Salah will contend with formidable opponents including Ousmane Dembélé from Paris Saint-Germain and Lamine Yamal of Barcelona, both of whom are also in contention for this year’s honor.
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Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has announced his intention to depart from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing internal challenges and a desire to openly support President Bola Tinubu’s administration without facing accusations of anti-party activities. In a recent address to a congregation, Governor Eno expressed his admiration for President Tinubu’s efforts and highlighted the difficulties within the PDP that have influenced his decision. He emphasized that his departure is not due to a lack of commitment to the PDP but rather a pragmatic move to ensure effective governance and alignment with the federal government’s initiatives. Governor Eno acknowledged the leadership crisis within the PDP and expressed concerns about the party’s ability to provide a clear roadmap for future elections. He stated that despite his administration’s achievements in Akwa Ibom State, the national disunity within the PDP poses risks that he is unwilling to take. He also addressed the ideological similarities among Nigerian political parties, noting the absence of distinct differences that would justify remaining in a party that hinders his ability to support beneficial federal policies. Governor Eno emphasized his commitment to the “Arise Agenda” and his desire to continue supporting President Tinubu’s administration in a manner that aligns with his principles and governance goals.
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Umar Damagum, the acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has firmly dismissed allegations questioning his leadership capabilities and rumored collusion with the All Progressives Congress (APC). In an exclusive discussion with BBC Hausa, Damagum addressed rising criticism within the party, particularly regarding his affiliation with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, a notable figure currently serving under the APC-led administration. According to Damagum, rumors branding him as an APC stooge are entirely unfounded. He reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to the PDP and strongly denied ever compromising the party’s principles. “May God stand as a judge between myself and those who have slandered me. If I am secretly working for the APC, may God reveal it,” he stated, referencing alleged reports of a clandestine meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the UK. Damagum emphasized his deep-rooted ties to the PDP, noting that he has been a committed member since 1999 and has never switched party allegiance. He believes that some critics aim to distort facts simply to serve their own agendas, whether through praise or condemnation. When asked about his association with Wike, Damagum admitted their acquaintance but denied any actions that would compromise his responsibilities or violate party ethics. “I know Wike, and others in the party know him too. The only issue here is that I didn’t let certain people manipulate the situation to their favor,” Damagum explained. He also expressed regret over recent defections from the PDP to the APC, calling them unfortunate losses. However, he rejected suggestions that internal mistreatment caused these exits. On the topic of party unity, Damagum acknowledged that internal disagreements are natural in any democratic setting but stressed that the PDP remains solid and focused on its collective mission.
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Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) is often talked about like it’s some kind of digital gold mine. But here’s the honest truth—you can make money with KDP as a Nigerian, but it’s not automatic, and it’s definitely not easy money. Let’s break down the truth—what works, what doesn’t, what you need, and how Nigerians are actually earning from it in 2025. This post is based on real insights, practical strategies, and verified experiences. Whether you’re completely new to digital publishing or you’ve tried and failed before, you’ll find clear answers here. What is Amazon KDP? Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing is a free platform that allows you to self-publish digital books and sell them on Amazon’s global store. You can publish: You keep up to 70% royalties on every sale, depending on your book price and region. Amazon does not charge upfront, making it perfect for beginners with limited capital. But success on KDP isn’t about uploading random content—it’s about strategy. ? Reference: Amazon’s Official KDP Help Page Can Nigerians Really Make Money from Amazon KDP? Yes, but you need: Real Talk: Many Nigerians are earning between $50 to $2,000/month from Amazon KDP. Some outliers hit $5,000+, but that’s rare without a full content pipeline and proper SEO. Learn how to start an online business with zero capital in Nigeria to pair with your publishing side hustle. 1. The Big Players: What Kinds of Books Are Making Money? There are 3 main categories where Nigerians are seeing success: a. Low-Content Books These include: You don’t need to write much—just design and format. Tools like Canva, Book Bolt, and Creative Fabrica help with design templates. Creative Fabrica – Digital design marketplace b. Nonfiction Books Nigerians with specific knowledge (tech, self-help, business, cooking) are writing short nonfiction books (8,000 to 25,000 words) that rank well. c. Children’s Books A fast-growing niche if you can afford illustrations or use AI tools responsibly. Nigerians are succeeding here using AI-generated art with storytelling structure. 2. What You Need to Get Started a. Tools Note: Amazon won’t pay into most Nigerian bank accounts directly. Use Payoneer, then transfer to your local bank. ? Reference: Payoneer for Amazon KDP b. Skills 3. How to Make Your Books Discoverable on Amazon Publishing isn’t enough—you need visibility. This is where SEO for Amazon comes in. Step-by-step KDP SEO: 4. Marketing Your KDP Books for Free Here’s how to promote your books with zero budget: Bonus Tip: Create a free landing page using Carrd or Mailchimp to collect emails and build an audience over time. 5. Mistakes to Avoid Final Word: Is Amazon KDP Worth It in Nigeria? Yes, it’s worth it—but only if you treat it like a real business. Consistency, niche selection, and quality matter more than quantity. If you’re in it to make real money, not just publish for vanity, KDP is one of the most accessible income opportunities available to Nigerians today. It won’t replace your job overnight. But if you publish strategically, it can become a real side hustle—or a full-time passive income stream. Recap Internal Resources to Boost Your KDP Journey:
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Why Digital Skills Matter More Than Ever in 2025 You don’t need to attend a physical university or break the bank to build a valuable, money-making skill set. Right now, in 2025, digital skills are the new currency. From Lagos to London, businesses are looking for people who can design, code, analyze, market, and manage—all online. Whether you’re unemployed, underpaid, or just starting out, the internet gives you access to world-class training for free—and yes, many of them come with certificates that are recognized globally. If you’re serious about building a future-proof career, here’s your step-by-step map. These are the best platforms offering free, certified digital courses you can take today. 1. Google Digital Garage – Digital Marketing Certification What You’ll Learn: Why It’s Powerful:The course is provided by Google, and the certificate is highly respected. It’s a fantastic way to kickstart a career in marketing or build visibility for your own business. Get Started:Google Digital Garage – Fundamentals of Digital Marketing Bonus Tip: This course is accepted by employers and integrates well with your LinkedIn profile. Related Post: How to Start an Online Business with Zero Capital in Nigeria 2. LinkedIn Learning – Tech & Creative Skills (1-Month Free) What You’ll Learn: Why It’s Worth It:LinkedIn Learning offers a free month where you can earn as many certificates as you want. These courses are crafted by industry pros, and the certificates are easily shared on LinkedIn for recruiters to see. Start Here:LinkedIn Learning – Free Trial Access 3. Coursera – Data Science, Business, and AI (Audit Option) What You’ll Learn: Why It’s Smart:You can audit courses for free from top universities like Yale, Stanford, and IBM. Pay only if you want a certificate—or apply for financial aid and get it free. Trusted Resource:Coursera Courses – Audit for Free Pro Insight: Combine a data science certificate from IBM with a portfolio on GitHub to land remote jobs abroad. 4. HubSpot Academy – CRM, Inbound Marketing, and Sales Skills What You’ll Learn: Why You Shouldn’t Skip This:HubSpot is one of the most used CRM platforms globally. If you want to work in sales, marketing, or customer support, these certifications give you instant credibility. Check It Out:HubSpot Academy – Free Certification Courses 5. Alison – Free Diploma and Certificate Courses What You’ll Learn: Why It Stands Out:Alison is free forever, and their courses cover practical job-ready topics. Most courses come with a downloadable certificate. Start Learning:Alison – Free Online Courses with Certificates Note: Their premium certificate (hard copy) is paid, but the digital version is free. 6. Microsoft Learn – Azure, Power BI, and Office Tools What You’ll Learn: Why Tech Employers Love It:Microsoft Learn is directly connected with Microsoft certifications. Great for those aiming for roles in IT, data science, and cloud. Jump In:Microsoft Learn – Free Learning Paths 7. FutureLearn – Business, Tech, and Psychology What You’ll Learn: Why It’s Unique:Courses from universities like University of Leeds and Open University. You can access content for free, and only pay if you want a cert (or apply for aid). Explore Courses:FutureLearn Free Courses 8. Skillshare – Creative and Freelance Skills (Free Access via Trials) What You’ll Learn: Why It’s Valuable:Skillshare is perfect if you’re heading into the creative economy—YouTube, TikTok, or freelance platforms like Fiverr or Upwork. Use the Free Trial:Skillshare Free Trial Courses 9. Meta Blueprint – Social Media and Ads Mastery What You’ll Learn: Why It Pays Off:If you’re running a business or want to become a social media manager, this course teaches you from the source—Meta itself. Start Learning:Meta Blueprint – Free Training Tips to Maximize Your Free Learning Journey Final Thoughts Nigeria has no shortage of problems, but digital skills give you a way out—no capital, no connections needed. These platforms don’t just teach you—they open doors to remote jobs, freelance gigs, and entrepreneurship. Whether you want to become a digital marketer, data analyst, graphic designer, or tech founder, your journey starts with learning. And now, thanks to these free courses, there’s no excuse not to level up. Related Post:
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Many desire a quiet and peaceable life; yet, they neglect the action the Lord says would cause it to happen. The Word of God is clear on what we must do to make our nations the haven of peace and prosperity that God ordained them to be: we are to pray for all men, including leaders at every level or position of authority. Therefore, make it a culture, every day, to pray for your president and all those who work with him; pray for the governors. In your state, city, or community, pray for the leaders at every level and for those who work with them. Pray for the community heads, the judges, the leaders of the police and the armed forces, the heads of the different institutions and parastatals in your nation. When you pray for them like this, the prosperity in your nation will blossom and the people will profit from the good that’s in the land. The Bible tells us in Isaiah 1:19, “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land.” There’s more wealth in your nation than you can imagine, but the onus is on God’s people to do the needful; act on the Word. Pray for your nation and its leaders as God has instructed. The solution is not in protesting or bringing down the government. Even if you removed a leader and replaced him or her with another, it wouldn’t change the root issue. The real solution is in prayer—praying according to this pattern, which Paul outlined by the Spirit: supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks for all men, and for all in authority or positions of leadership. Even now, take the next few minutes to pray for those in authority in the nation where you live, work, or do business. Create the conditions for a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty in your nation through your heartfelt prayers as directed by the Spirit. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the privilege and responsibility of prayer. I pray for all the categories of leaders in my nation and around the world, that their hearts are mantled by your wisdom and influenced by your righteousness. Those that work with them, including the systems and structures they put in place, all align with your perfect will for the Gospel to prevail in every nation, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY1 Timothy 2:1-4 NIVI urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. Jeremiah 29:7And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace. Proverbs 11:11 MSGWhen right-living people bless the city, it flourishes; evil talk turns it into a ghost town in no time. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 11:1-16 & 2 Kings 10-12 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 12:18-27 & Numbers 26 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I am a new creation, born with the life and nature of God. I am not subject to sickness, disease, failure, or death. I am an associate of the God-kind, in vital, inseparable oneness and union with divinity. I’m superior to Satan, and I’m above the forces of darkness because I’ve been brought into the God-kind, a divine pantheon. I affirm that divinity is at work in me. The knowledge of God’s Word in my heart, causes me to walk in faith, dominion, glory and power. Through the revelation knowledge of God’s Word, I live above the deception, trickery, manipulation and lies of the adversary. I function in absolute victory. I am an associate of the God-kind, recreated into the image and likeness of the Son of God! I function from the place of advantage, victory, dominion and power. I am guided and propelled by God’s divine wisdom to do His will and fulfill my destiny in Christ. I fix my gaze on the eternal realities of God’s Kingdom. Despite challenges, my faith grows, prevails, and triumphs through the Word. I’m blessed with faithful Abraham; graced for excellence. I have the inherent ability to prosper. Christ in me is my power to condition my environment to produce the results that I want. I’m the symbol, and epitome of God’s grace; His blessings are evident and manifest in my life. God has predestined me for financial significance in this world. He has given me access to all the resources in this world for me to fulfill my calling. I am a son of consolation in the Kingdom. There is an unremitting flow of money making ideas from the Spirit of God into my spirit. My heart is open to receive God’s Word and live by it everyday in my finances. I am not moved by the natural circumstances that exist in the world. I am aware of God’s bountiful provisions for me, and I am enjoying them because I see by the greater light of His Word. I continuously function in the realities of the kingdom of God concerning my wealth, fortunes and financial prosperity, in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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In a strategic move to bolster real-time surveillance of suspicious financial activities, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has unveiled a draft framework titled “Baseline Standards for Automated Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Solutions“. This initiative aims to support financial institutions in adopting cutting-edge technology that improves the identification and reporting of suspicious transactions. The draft was disclosed in a letter addressed to all financial institutions and signed by Dr. Olubukola Akinwunmi, Director of Banking Supervision at the CBN. The apex bank is currently seeking feedback and suggestions from industry stakeholders before finalizing the document. According to the letter, the CBN remains firmly dedicated to safeguarding the resilience and trustworthiness of Nigeria’s banking infrastructure. In response to the rapid digitization and the growing presence of innovative financial tools, the bank developed this new set of standards to promote compliance and operational efficiency in tackling money laundering, terrorism financing, and the financing of proliferation (AML/CFT/CPF). These standards were informed by an in-depth evaluation of existing anti-money laundering systems in the financial sector. The framework aligns with global standards, including recommendations from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)—a leading international body dedicated to combating financial crimes. Key objectives of the standards include: The draft, which has been circulated for industry input, proposes a system-wide adoption of AI-powered tools to monitor and analyze financial behaviors in real time. According to the CBN, these solutions are intended to establish consistency, reliability, and strict compliance throughout the Nigerian financial system. In section 4.1 of the draft, the document outlines mandatory features for AML systems, including risk profiling, screening for politically exposed persons (PEPs), identification and verification protocols, transaction monitoring, and automated regulatory reporting. Regarding the timeline for implementation, the CBN specified that all financial institutions are expected to align their AML solutions with the proposed standards within 12 months following official issuance. Additionally, the CBN will carry out periodic audits and industry assessments to ensure thorough compliance. Institutions must also offer ongoing training programs for their AML teams, with a focus on system operation and evolving risk factors.
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The Dangote Refinery has implemented a fresh reduction in the cost of premium motor spirit (PMS), popularly referred to as petrol, lowering the pump price by ₦15 per litre across several regions in Nigeria. In an official announcement made yesterday, the company disclosed that, following this adjustment, petrol prices now stand at ₦875 per litre in Lagos, down from the previous ₦890. In the South West, the revised cost is ₦885 per litre, while in both the North West and North Central regions, the product now sells at ₦895 per litre. For consumers in the South East, South South, and North East, the price has been pegged at ₦905 per litre. This pricing update will be effective through the refinery’s distribution affiliates, which include MRS Oil Nigeria Plc, Ardova Plc (AP), Heyden Petroleum, Optima Energy, Techno Oil, and Hyde Energy. Dangote Refinery has also extended an invitation to other fuel marketers to join its growing network, aligning with the federal government’s “Nigeria First” initiative, which emphasizes the preference for domestically manufactured products and services. Since initiating operations, Dangote Refinery has pursued multiple cost-cutting measures designed to ease the economic burden on Nigerian citizens. Notably, in February 2025, the company executed two separate reductions, totaling ₦125 per litre. This was followed by an additional cut of approximately ₦45 per litre in April 2025, further contributing to consumer relief.
