So, you want to start an online business in Nigeria—but you don’t have a dime. Maybe you’re tired of job hunting or just looking for a way to build something real that earns while you sleep. The good news? You don’t need to be rich to launch a profitable business online. You just need the right strategy, tools, and hustle. This guide shows you step-by-step how to build an online business in Nigeria from scratch without spending a kobo upfront. It’s not about cutting corners. It’s about using what’s already available for free—then turning it into income. No gimmicks, no sugarcoating. Before we dive in, let’s clarify what this is not: This is real talk about real strategies that thousands of Nigerians are already using to earn online—without any startup capital. If you’re ready, here’s exactly how to make it happen. 1. Choose a Profitable Online Business Model (No Capital Required) You can’t succeed without the right foundation. Here are four online business models you can start in Nigeria with zero capital: a. Freelancing Offer skills like writing, graphic design, video editing, or digital marketing on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal. Even if you’re not an expert yet, you can learn a high-demand skill for free on YouTube or Coursera. Why it works: You’re exchanging your time and talent—not your money. Nigerian freelancers like Michael Oladipo earn six figures in dollars doing this. [Read our guide on how to become a successful freelancer in Nigeria.] b. Content Creation (YouTube, TikTok, Blogging) If you have something to say or show, you can start a channel or blog. Both platforms are free to launch. YouTube Tip: Use your smartphone. You don’t need fancy cameras. Consistency and valuable content win. Blogging Tip: Start a free blog on Medium or WordPress.com, and use SEO to rank. Monetization: AdSense, affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and brand partnerships. c. Affiliate Marketing You promote other people’s products and earn a commission on every sale. Join Nigerian affiliate programs like: You don’t need inventory or delivery logistics. Just traffic and trust. d. Social Media Management or Virtual Assistant Small businesses in Nigeria are desperate for digital help. You can offer to manage social media accounts, reply to DMs, or handle admin tasks. Tools like Canva, ChatGPT, and Buffer are free and make you look like a pro. 2. Learn the Skills You Need—for Free Lack of money is not your problem—lack of skill is. Here’s where to learn without spending a kobo: Focus on: Start learning one, not all at once. You don’t need 10 skills. You need one skill you master. 3. Use Free Tools to Run Like a Pro Here are powerful tools that won’t cost you anything: Pro Tip: Build your brand even if you’re broke. A decent logo from Canva, a bio, and a simple free site can make you look credible. 4. Build an Audience with Content (Not Ads) You can’t sell if no one knows you. Paid ads are great—but you don’t need them at the start. Instead, use organic growth: [Check our content marketing roadmap for beginners in Nigeria.] 5. Monetize Without Spending a Kobo Once you have attention or skill, here’s how to monetize it: You don’t need 100k followers. You need trust + consistency. 6. Register Your Online Business (Optional but Smart) You can operate informally at first. But to access bank payments, partnerships, and trust, it helps to register your business name. Visit: CAC Portal — ₦12,000 or less. You can do this later, once your side hustle starts bringing in steady income. Final Thoughts: Start Small. Stay Loud. Stay Consistent. The biggest lie in the game is “you need money to make money.” In Nigeria today, all you really need is a smartphone, internet connection, and resourcefulness. You won’t become a millionaire overnight. But if you start today and stick to it for six months, you’ll be way ahead of those waiting for the “perfect time.” Share this post with someone who needs to read it. Quick Recap:
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed (1 Corinthians 15:51). Many misinterpret Hebrews 9:27, which says, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” They conclude from this verse that every person must die once. But the actual rendering is that because it was appointed for men to die once, Christ died once for all humanity. His death was the fulfilment of that appointment, not a statement that every individual is doomed to die physically. The Gospel of Jesus Christ abolishes mortality. 2 Timothy 1:10 says, Christ Jesus abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. This is a present reality for those in Christ. You’ve been brought into immortality—deathlessness. Immortality means you don’t die. Some argue that men like Enoch and Elijah who were taken by God without dying must return to earth to experience physical death. This is also absurd, as it undermines the essence of the Gospel and the victory of Christ over death. The Lord Jesus declared, “…I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die…” (John 11:25-26). The revelation of eternal life is vital. John wrote, “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life…” (1 John 5:13). Eternal life is the nature of God imparted to the human spirit at the New Birth, and you must live daily with the consciousness that you have passed from death to life. Life works in you now that you’re born again. This knowledge and revelation is necessary for you to walk in the fullness of God’s plan for your life. Mortality has been defeated, and you’ve been called to walk in the realms and reality of immortality. The generation of the Church that hears and acts on this message is the generation of the Rapture, and we’re that generation. PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for the gift of eternal life, which I possess in Christ Jesus. I declare that death has no dominion over me, for I walk in the reality of immortality, as unveiled in the Gospel. I live in the consciousness of this life, upward and forward only, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY1 John 5:11-12And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He that hath the Son hath life; [and] he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. 1 Corinthians 15:53-57For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal [must] put on immortality. 54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where [is] thy sting? O grave, where [is] thy victory? 56 The sting of death [is] sin; and the strength of sin [is] the law. 57 But thanks [be] to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. || Romans 8:10-11And if Christ [be] in you, the body [is] dead because of sin; but the Spirit [is] life because of righteousness. 11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 10:1-21 & 2 Kings 6-7 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 12:1-12 & Numbers 24 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I live above the limitations of the human body and the physical realm through the ability of God’s Spirit. Health, peace, joy, and the glorious life are my present-hour inheritance. I am a king and a priest unto God and my words are full of power and authority; therefore I live a life of victory, success, divine health, abundance, excellence, and glory. I can never be small, the Spirit of God is magnifying my voice and influence around the nations of the world. The anointing of God’s Spirit has set me apart for greatness, causing me to spread and make progress on every side. In my business, job, career, finances, academics, family, and in all that concerns me. Christ lives in me! I’m the expression of His reality, His grace, glory, kingdom, power and personality! I’m the expression of His fullness; He is my completeness. It makes no difference what challenges I face in life; there’s a force – an empowerment – at work in me to blaze through the barriers. I live in health, prosperity, and excellence. I have no lack in this life because all my needs are met in Christ Jesus. I’m strong in Him and in the power of His might! I am not moved by the prevalent circumstances anywhere in the world. Every day of my life is full of God’s glory, beauty, excellence, and grace. My life is for the glory of God and I experience His goodness and mercies today. My life is a life of honour, excellence, praise, glory and thanksgiving to the Lord at all times. I live my days in health and prosperity. I do not suffer from headaches, colds, fevers, diabetes, stomach pain, or any such thing. I refuse arthritis, diabetes, cancer, tumors, paralysis, kidney failure, heart failure, and lung failure in any place in my body. I have received an overflowing of God’s grace. I enjoy promotions, unending success, and an extraordinary life of excellence, victory, and dominion. I am loaded with good things. I am exalted with Christ in glory; I know who I am. I am chosen, royal, and peculiar! I have the supernatural grace to
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President Donald Trump has unveiled the conceptual framework for the “Golden Dome,” a proposed $175 billion missile defense initiative that, for the first time, would deploy U.S. weapons in space. Announced from the Oval Office, Trump expressed confidence that the system would be “fully operational before the end of my term,” concluding in 2029, with capabilities to intercept missiles “even if they are launched from space.” A U.S. official familiar with the program indicated that while full operational capability by that date is ambitious, initial functionalities might be achievable. Seated beside a poster depicting the continental U.S. in gold with artistic missile interception illustrations, Trump also named Gen. Michael Guetlein, current vice chief of space operations, to oversee the Golden Dome’s development. The envisioned system comprises both ground and space-based components designed to detect and neutralize missiles across all four primary stages of a potential attack: pre-launch detection and destruction, early flight interception, midcourse engagement, and terminal phase neutralization as missiles approach their targets. Pentagon planners have been evaluating options categorized as medium, high, and “extra high” based on cost, all incorporating space-based interceptors. The primary distinction among these versions lies in the quantity of satellites, sensors, and, notably, space-based interceptors to be procured. The Congressional Budget Office recently estimated that the space-based elements alone could incur costs up to $542 billion over the next two decades. Trump has proposed an initial $25 billion allocation for the program within his tax break bill currently progressing through Congress. The Pentagon has long cautioned about the advanced missile capabilities developed by China and Russia, necessitating updated countermeasures. Golden Dome’s additional satellites and interceptors, which constitute the bulk of the program’s expenses, aim to intercept these sophisticated missiles during their early or mid-flight phases. Gen. Chance Saltzman, head of the U.S. Space Force, informed lawmakers that the space-based weapons proposed for Golden Dome represent unprecedented missions for military space organizations. China and Russia have deployed offensive space weapons, including satellites capable of disabling critical U.S. satellites, increasing U.S. vulnerability. Last year, the U.S. reported that Russia was developing a space-based nuclear weapon capable of lingering in orbit and emitting bursts to destroy nearby satellites. Trump mentioned that he had not yet discussed the Golden Dome program with Russian President Vladimir Putin but intends to do so at an appropriate time.
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A significant dispute has emerged between Nigeria’s National Assembly and the civic organization BudgIT regarding the 2025 federal budget. BudgIT alleges that lawmakers have inserted 11,122 projects totaling N6.93 trillion into the budget, projects which purportedly do not align with the Medium-Term National Development Plan (2021–2025) or other national priorities. In response, both chambers of the National Assembly—the Senate and the House of Representatives—have denied these allegations, asserting their constitutional authority to amend the budget. BudgIT, an organization dedicated to promoting transparency in public finance, contends that these insertions represent a deepening culture of exploitation within the budget process. They highlight that 238 projects, each valued above N5 billion and totaling N2.29 trillion, were added without sufficient justification. Additionally, 984 projects worth N1.71 trillion and 1,119 projects ranging from N500 million to N1 billion, totaling N641.38 billion, were indiscriminately included, raising concerns about their relevance to national priorities. Further analysis by BudgIT reveals that 3,573 projects worth N653.19 billion are designated for federal constituencies, while 1,972 projects worth N444.04 billion are allocated to senatorial districts. Notable anomalies include 1,477 street light projects valued at N393.29 billion, 538 boreholes totaling N114.53 billion, 2,122 ICT projects worth N505.79 billion, and N6.74 billion earmarked for the empowerment of traditional rulers. A particularly concerning aspect is that 39% of all insertions, amounting to 4,371 projects worth N1.72 trillion, were added to the Ministry of Agriculture’s budget, inflating its capital allocation from N242.5 billion to N1.95 trillion. Similarly, the Ministries of Science and Technology, and Budget and Economic Planning saw their allocations increase by N994.98 billion and N1.1 trillion, respectively, due to these insertions. BudgIT also points to the misuse of agencies like the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (Lagos) and the Federal Cooperative College, Oji River, which have been assigned projects beyond their technical capacities. For instance, the Federal Cooperative College, primarily a training institution, has been allocated N3 billion for utility vehicles to support farmers and distribution agents, N1.5 billion for rural electrification in Rivers State, and N1 billion for solar street lights in Enugu State. Despite these findings, the Presidency has remained silent. BudgIT had previously launched the “The Budget is a Mess” campaign in late 2024 to highlight such issues and submitted formal letters to the Presidency, the Budget Office, and the National Assembly. However, no responses have been received, and no institution has taken responsibility for the anomalies. Gabriel Okeowo, BudgIT’s Country Director, emphasizes the urgent need to restore integrity to Nigeria’s budgeting process. He criticizes the unchecked project insertions by the National Assembly, stating that they derail national planning, weaken public trust, and divert resources from critical development priorities. Okeowo calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to exercise stronger executive leadership and reform the budgeting process to ensure alignment with national development plans. He also urges the Attorney-General to seek a constitutional interpretation from the Supreme Court regarding the National Assembly’s appropriation powers and calls on anti-corruption agencies like the EFCC and ICPC to track these projects to ensure value for money. In defense, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, asserts that the 2025 Appropriation Bill was presented by the executive, thoroughly reviewed, and passed based on the exact amount presented. He dismisses the allegations as falsehoods aimed at stirring public disaffection against the National Assembly. Similarly, Clement Jimbo, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on National Planning and Economic Development, refutes the claims of budget padding, describing them as completely false and rooted in ignorance of the legislature’s constitutional responsibilities. He emphasizes that the National Assembly has the authority to review, amend, and approve the national budget, ensuring it reflects the aspirations of Nigerians. Jimbo explains that the budget undergoes scrutiny by nearly 200 specialized committees in the House of Representatives, each interfacing with corresponding government ministries, departments, and agencies. He clarifies that individual lawmakers cannot unilaterally divert funds to favored regions or interests, and any such claims are misleading and factually incorrect. The lawmaker concludes by reiterating that the recent reports alleging budget padding by the National Assembly are false and calls for greater public understanding of the legislative process.
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Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, witnessed a wave of protests after the tragic death of Emmanuella Ahenjir, a 23-year-old student in her final year at the Federal University, Wukari. The young woman was reportedly gunned down by unknown police officers last Friday morning. The shooting occurred near the Wurukum roundabout as Emmanuella was traveling in a vehicle coming from the Gyado Villa area. The identity of the officers involved remains unknown, and the incident has generated widespread public anger and condemnation. In reaction, large crowds, predominantly composed of young people, took to the streets in protest. Gender rights advocate Ukan Kurugh led the demonstration, drawing significant attention to the incident. Protesters assembled in huge numbers at the Wurukum roundabout, holding placards with messages like “Justice for Emmanuella” and “End Police Brutality.” Their central demands include a transparent investigation and swift action from the appropriate authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.
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The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally brought charges against two employees of Premium Trust Bank—Kehinde Odeyemi and Matthew Adeniyi Damilola—before Justice Alexander Owoeye at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Tuesday. The two bankers were arraigned alongside Samson Latshin Dakup, Bolaji Omotosho Yinka, and Sunday Badeniyi Okunola, making up a group of five defendants now facing a seven-count charge related to conspiracy and attempted cyber theft. According to details provided by the EFCC, the accused allegedly collaborated to infiltrate the bank’s IT framework by unlawfully manipulating its server and domain login credentials. The plot aimed to penetrate the internal systems of Premium Trust Bank in order to unlawfully extract customers’ deposits. Fortunately, the EFCC was able to detect and neutralize the cyber breach attempt before any financial damage was inflicted. Specific Charges Filed One of the major counts in the charge sheet reads: “That you, Kehinde Odeyemi, Samson Latshin Dakup, Bolaji Omotosho Yinka, Sunday Badeniyi Okunola, and Matthew Adeniyi Damilola, along with individuals identified as Humble (still at large), Wasiu (still at large), Isa Ismaila (still at large), and another known as Victor Joshua Ilemona a.k.a. Oracle (still at large), unlawfully conspired between April and May 2025 in Lagos to manipulate the access codes—including server IP and domain credentials—of Premium Trust Bank. The goal was to gain unauthorized entry into the entire digital infrastructure of the bank with the intent of stealing funds. This act violates Sections 27 and 28 (1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015 (as amended in 2024), and is punishable under Section 28 (2) of the same Act.” All five accused persons pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them. Court Proceedings and Bail Request After the defendants entered their pleas, the prosecution counsel, Zeenat B. Atiku, requested that the court fix a trial date and order that the accused be remanded at a correctional facility until proceedings begin. Defense counsel Adeleke Adepoju, representing the first defendant, made an oral request for bail, urging the court to grant liberal terms due to limited time to submit a formal bail application. Other defense lawyers echoed the same request for their respective clients. However, Justice Alexander Owoeye rejected the oral applications, emphasizing that all bail requests must follow proper legal procedures and be submitted in writing. Subsequently, the court ordered the remand of Kehinde Odeyemi at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre, while the remaining four defendants—Dakup, Omotosho, Okunola, and Damilola—were sent to Ikoyi Correctional Centre. Cybercrime Law of Nigeria – Full Details
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In defiance of a clear directive from the Cross River State government, staff at the College of Health Technology, Calabar, are allegedly continuing to impose unauthorized financial demands on students. Roughly two weeks earlier, the Cross River State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, took a firm stance against illegal charges reported at the Ogoja College of Nursing Sciences, categorizing the practice as a severe breach of ethical and governmental trust. This response followed the widespread circulation of a viral video on social media platforms, which appeared to expose blatant student extortion, with no formal receipts or proof of payment being issued. Public reaction was swift and widespread, with numerous parents, students, and members of the public expressing serious concern and demanding prompt intervention. Responding to the uproar, Dr. Ayuk issued a strict directive demanding the immediate suspension of all unapproved levies in all health institutions within the state. He also called for full refunds to be made to students who had already paid such illicit fees. The Commissioner, visibly angered by the discovery, further announced the formation of a panel of inquiry to investigate the extent of the malpractice and ensure accountability among the offenders. He strongly advised that any academic institution involved in these unethical practices should cease all such actions and promptly refund affected students. However, investigations conducted at the College of Health Technology, Calabar, reveal a concerning disregard for the Commissioner’s directive. Reports from students participating in ongoing National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) examinations claim that lecturers are coercing them into paying between ₦10,000 and ₦15,000 per course to secure passing grades. Non-compliance allegedly results in failing the course. Further information indicates that students are being forced to purchase handouts or textbooks authored by specific lecturers — materials many say they had already acquired in previous sessions. Some of the students, speaking to LMSINT MEDIA, disclosed that despite multiple complaints lodged with the institution’s leadership and departmental heads, the situation remains unresolved. One student recounted a recent encounter where a lecturer demanded ₦15,000 per student, threatening them with academic failure if the fee was not paid. “This is outright exploitation. We’ve paid our tuition and other official fees, including departmental charges, yet we’re being compelled to make extra illegal payments that we simply cannot afford,” one student lamented. “We are over 50 in our class. Multiply that by ₦15,000 and you realize the sum going into a private pocket—much more than a lecturer’s monthly salary. Some of us are taking a stand. We will not pay. We refuse to be intimidated.” Another student, a female, alleged that many lecturers rarely attend scheduled lectures but still demand bribes to secure favorable grades. “The level of corruption here is just unbearable,” she said. Reacting to these allegations, Dr. John, a senior staff member from the Office of the Provost, denied that the institution officially sanctioned such practices. “The school is not aware of these allegations, nor has it endorsed any such illegal acts,” he stated. “Our policy has always been against all forms of extortion. I believe the institution will launch an inquiry into these claims.”
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Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola was visibly emotional and brought to tears as Kevin De Bruyne officially said goodbye to the Etihad Stadium crowd in what was his final appearance before the club’s supporters. After a decade of loyalty and brilliance, Manchester City has opted not to extend De Bruyne’s contract, which is set to expire at the end of the summer. The decision means the 33-year-old midfield maestro will leave as a free agent after ten historic years, where he contributed to six Premier League titles and one UEFA Champions League victory. During City’s 3-1 triumph over Bournemouth on Tuesday night, De Bruyne missed a goal-scoring opportunity but helped his team rise to third in the Premier League standings. As the lights dimmed inside the Etihad Stadium, Kevin De Bruyne, joined by his wife Michele Lacroix and their three children – Mason, Rome, and Suri – walked onto the pitch for one final farewell. The fans echoed chants of his name in tribute. In a moving send-off, Manchester City players and staff honored De Bruyne with a guard of honour. He made his way to the center of the pitch, surrounded by fireworks and ambient lights. When asked about the experience, the Belgian international responded simply: “Very emotional.” At that poignant moment, Pep Guardiola was seen wiping away tears as De Bruyne paused to reflect, clearly touched by the atmosphere and the end of an era.
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Real People, Real Hustle Thousands of Nigerians dream of earning in dollars, especially in a country where inflation and unemployment make the naira less predictable. But for many, it feels far-fetched. The truth? It’s absolutely doable. This is not a motivational story padded with fluff. It’s a real-world case study of Suhaib Mohammed, a Nigerian freelancer who earns a consistent $500+ per month on Upwork—one of the world’s top freelance platforms. We’ll break down the exact steps he took, the mistakes he avoided, how he built credibility from scratch, and the tools he uses today. No gimmicks. Just a working system. Who Is Suhaib Mohammed? Suhaib is a freelance writer and strategist based in Nigeria. Like many young graduates, he struggled to find stable employment locally. Rather than wait, he turned to the global freelance market. Using Upwork, he set out to earn ₦1 million (around $1,300). Within months, he hit and surpassed his goal. His strategy wasn’t based on luck. It was all about consistency, positioning, and knowing how to sell his skills on Upwork. (Source: BellaNaija) 1. Building a Strong, Clean Profile Most freelancers fail before they even begin—because their profiles look lazy or vague. Suhaib created a professional, simple profile with: Tip: Avoid saying “I’m passionate about writing.” Say: “I help SaaS companies grow through SEO-driven blog content.” How to Craft a Winning Upwork Profile That Attracts Clients 2. Starting With Low Budget Jobs (Strategically) Suhaib didn’t chase $500 jobs on day one. Instead, he accepted small gigs—$30 here, $50 there—but delivered exceptional quality. He used these to: Pro Move: He never said yes to everything. He focused on niches he could write well in: tech, finance, and business blogs. 3. Crafting Killer Proposals That Win Jobs A common mistake? Copy-pasting proposals. Suhaib made each proposal feel custom. He always: Key Tip: He didn’t ask for work. He offered value up front. 4. Learning How to Rank on Upwork Search Upwork has an algorithm. Freelancers who understand it show up more often in client searches. Suhaib: 5. Communication Is Everything Clients love communication that is: Suhaib always confirmed deadlines, responded quickly, and clarified details before starting. Even when issues came up, his transparency won clients over. “Clients don’t care where you’re from if you make their lives easier.” – Suhaib 6. Scaling Up From $100 to $500+ Per Month Once he had 4–5 reviews and some completed jobs, Suhaib increased his rates. Slowly but consistently. Today, he works with 3–5 regular clients monthly, making at least $500—often more. Tools He Uses How You Can Start If you’re reading this from Nigeria—or anywhere in Africa—and want to start earning in dollars, here’s a game plan: Final Thoughts Suhaib’s story isn’t just inspiring—it’s a blueprint. There’s no shortcut to freelance success, but there is a path. And Nigerians, with the right skills and grit, can walk it.
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has affirmed that the role of lawmakers is not to confront the Executive arm of government but to support initiatives that drive national progress. This message was conveyed in a forthcoming documentary commemorating President Bola Tinubu’s two-year administration. Reflecting on the need for collaboration between the National Assembly and the Presidency, Akpabio noted, “When you are elected into the National Assembly — either the Senate or House of Representatives — your constituents do not hand you boxing gloves. It’s not a combative match. You’re expected to function in a bipartisan manner for Nigeria’s advancement.” According to the Senate President, the relationship between the legislature and the Executive has been harmonious over the past two years, driven by a mutual commitment to national development. He questioned the logic behind legislative conflict with the Executive, stating, “If all your strength is spent opposing the Executive, who then does the work for Nigeria?” Akpabio also highlighted the uniqueness of the current administration, pointing out that the President, First Lady, and Vice President are all former senators — a rare occurrence in Nigeria’s history. Legislative Agenda and Economic Self-Reliance Addressing economic policy, Akpabio revealed that the National Assembly is drafting legislation to compel Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to prioritize the purchase of locally assembled vehicles before considering foreign imports. “We have commenced efforts to establish a law that ensures automobiles are first sourced from Nigerian manufacturers before looking outside,” he stated. He lamented the significant financial losses Nigeria incurs from vehicle imports, stating that billions of dollars are drained annually on items that could be produced domestically. The Senate President stressed the urgency of revitalizing Nigeria’s industrial sector, noting the decline of once-thriving industries such as textiles, cotton, groundnut, and palm oil. “More than 50 textile firms have exited Nigeria. The cotton, groundnut, and palm oil sectors have crumbled. Countries like Malaysia have strategically used palm oil to strengthen their economies,” Akpabio observed. Support for the “Nigeria First” Policy Applauding the Tinubu administration’s “Nigeria First” policy, Akpabio described it as an excellent initiative that should be firmly backed by legislative action. He disclosed ongoing consultations with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council to draft legislation ensuring that the majority of Nigeria’s consumables are produced locally. “We’re working on legal frameworks to ensure nearly everything we consume, that can be made in Nigeria, is indeed manufactured here. Prioritising Nigeria means bringing industries back to serve our population of over 200 million,” he said. He encouraged the empowerment of small business owners, stressing that products like vinegar and bread can thrive in Nigeria’s large market. “Even if you produce something like vinegar and package it properly, it will succeed. If you bake bread, you can become a millionaire considering the sheer size of our market,” he explained. Akpabio emphasized that the National Assembly is committed to enacting laws that support industrial revival and reduce the country’s reliance on imports. Checks and Balances Still Intact Responding to claims that the legislature simply rubber-stamps the Executive’s decisions, Akpabio dismissed the notion. He pointed out instances where the Assembly rejected certain presidential nominees, emphasizing that due diligence and scrutiny are consistently applied. “People forget that we’ve made enemies by turning down some of the President’s nominations. Not everything the President proposes gets approved without careful examination,” he clarified. He reiterated the legislature’s function to review, modify, and support Executive policies that align with national interests. “Our responsibility is to refine and improve policies that aim to benefit the Nigerian people,” he said. Commitment to Pro-People Legislation Akpabio assured Nigerians that the 10th National Assembly remains focused on legislation that enhances citizens’ welfare and complements the Executive’s reform-driven agenda. “This administration is action-oriented. Therefore, in the National Assembly, we’re concentrated on passing people-centered laws,” he stated. He cited impactful bills such as the Student Loan Act (NELFUND), Tax Reform Bills, and the Minimum Wage Bill as examples of reforms already supported by the legislature. “We’ve achieved a lot in just two years. I want Nigerians to know that more laws are on the way — laws that will reduce economic pressure, unlock new opportunities, and empower the youth,” he concluded. Akpabio emphasized that the National Assembly has carefully assessed nearly every policy submitted by the President, ensuring alignment with the real needs of Nigerians and fast-tracking the passage of laws that can uplift their standard of living.
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Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, alongside Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, officially inaugurated newly appointed members of the Lagos State Civil Service Commission on Tuesday at the State House, located in Ikeja. As disclosed in a press release from the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, the new commission members were selected based on representation from each of the five traditional divisions in Lagos State. Boladele Dapo-Thomas, a retired Permanent Secretary, has been named as the new Chairperson of the commission. Her role is regarded as pivotal to preserving high standards and professionalism in the state’s civil service. Additional members sworn in include Fatai Lasisi, Lateef Olawale, Afolabi Sobowale, and Rufus Adedapo. Upholding Merit and Integrity Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that this swearing-in ceremony reaffirms the administration’s unwavering dedication to integrity, equity, and operational efficiency. These core values, he noted, are crucial for the effective functioning of the civil service and play a significant role in the broader development strategy for Lagos State. The Governor highlighted that the selection of the new commission members reflects his administration’s confidence in their abilities to uplift and steer the civil service toward greater achievements. He encouraged them to uphold their responsibilities with commitment and wise decision-making. “As the leadership of the Civil Service Commission, it is your duty to ensure the Lagos State civil service operates with discipline and merit-based principles,” Sanwo-Olu stated. He noted that the choices and actions of the commission will directly impact public services essential to the daily lives of millions of Lagos residents—including education, healthcare, infrastructure, and public safety. The Governor urged the appointees to lead with openness, foster innovation, and continuously create avenues for professional advancement within the public service system. He also stressed that the new members must be people-centric and act with full accountability. “You carry a solemn duty. While challenges will arise, you must remember that the trust placed in you comes with the responsibility to serve with excellence,” Sanwo-Olu added. A Push for Innovation in Public Service In his closing remarks, the Governor congratulated the newly sworn-in members, reiterating his trust in their capabilities to maintain and advance Lagos State’s reputation as a benchmark in civil service operations. He charged them with promoting innovation, transparency, and effectiveness. The Head of Service, Bose Agoro, applauded the Governor’s track record in selecting competent individuals, attributing the vibrancy of the Lagos civil service to such strategic appointments. She also voiced confidence in the new commission’s potential to improve policy-making processes and workforce productivity. Speaking on behalf of the appointees, Dapo-Thomas pledged the commission’s support for the administration’s development goals and reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening the efficiency and skillsets of the state workforce.
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A spokesperson for former U.S. President Joe Biden clarified that he had never received a diagnosis of prostate cancer before last week. The update follows the discovery of a nodule and the subsequent announcement revealing Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of the disease. According to the spokesperson, the last recorded prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test for Biden took place over a decade ago, in 2014, when he was between the ages of 71 and 72. The clarification came after remarks from Biden’s successor, former President Donald Trump, who expressed surprise that the public had not been informed of the cancer diagnosis sooner. Trump suggested a potential cover-up and questioned the timing of the information release. The White House announcement on Sunday confirmed the recent detection of the cancerous growth and its aggressive nature. Despite undergoing high-level medical evaluations as a former president, Biden had not been diagnosed with prostate cancer prior to the discovery last week. “President Biden’s last known PSA test was in 2014,” the spokesperson told AFP. “There was no previous diagnosis of prostate cancer before Friday.” Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men. It can often be identified early through PSA blood tests, which detect the presence of a protein known as prostate-specific antigen. Elevated levels may signal a need for further testing. Former President Trump has often criticized Biden’s health and mental capabilities, intensifying public scrutiny. Following the cancer diagnosis, Trump and his political allies have voiced suspicions regarding when Biden and his medical team became aware of the condition, especially given its late-stage nature. However, routine PSA testing for men over 70 remains a topic of debate. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force advises against standard annual screenings at this age, citing potential risks such as false positives, invasive biopsies, and unnecessary treatments that may outweigh the benefits. Medical professionals interviewed by Agence France-Presse (AFP) stated that late detection of prostate cancer can occur, even in individuals receiving elite medical care, such as a former president. It is still unclear whether Biden underwent physical prostate exams separately from PSA testing. The announcement has reignited concerns about Biden’s overall health, particularly amid renewed attention brought by an upcoming publication that discusses his reported physical decline. Despite these developments, Biden expressed gratitude on Monday for the widespread support and messages of goodwill he received after the diagnosis was made public.
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A sudden explosion caused widespread panic on Tuesday at the Alake Sports Complex, located in the Ijeja area of Abeokuta, Ogun State, one of the official venues for the 2024 National Sports Festival. According to eyewitness accounts, the explosion resulted from a fire that ignited while a gas truck was delivering fuel to the complex’s power generator. The incident triggered alarm among both athletes and spectators who were nearby, prompting a frantic dash for safety. Emergency management officials responded promptly, arriving at the scene to contain the fire and restore order to the facility. As of the time of reporting, no casualties had been officially confirmed. Despite the scare, the sporting events at the complex—including handball, squash, and badminton—resumed later in the day, as the situation was successfully brought under control. For further nationwide updates and safety coverage, visit Channels TV – Nigeria’s Trusted News Source
