Former Zamfara Central Senator, Kabiru Marafa, has officially announced his resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the ruling party of betrayal, neglect, and worsening division among its members. In a video message addressed to his supporters, Marafa stated that he had no choice but to withdraw his membership after what he described as continuous acts of disloyalty and disunity orchestrated within the APC. Speaking in Hausa, the outspoken politician explained that the party had failed to uphold unity in Zamfara State, adding that the level of betrayal was “severe and intolerable.” According to him, after thorough consultations with his political base over a period of days, he resolved that leaving the APC was the best decision. Marafa emphasized: “I want to use this medium to inform my loyal supporters in Zamfara State, the northern region, and Nigeria at large that after several meetings with my people for about two days regarding the direction of politics in Zamfara and beyond, we agreed that the APC has betrayed and cheated us. From the time of its government up till now, our people have suffered betrayal both in the state and at the national level.” He further alleged that the APC in Zamfara had been crippled by leadership tussles since Governor Mai Mala Buni assumed control of the party’s affairs from former governor Bello Matawalle. “The betrayal in Zamfara is at its highest point because, since Bala Buni took over from Matawalle, no official meeting has been convened up to this very moment. The party structure in Zamfara has been broken into two camps: one loyal to Bala Buni and the other loyal to Matawalle. It has been over two years and six months, yet despite appeals to resolve their conflict, nothing tangible has been achieved,” Marafa lamented. The development has heightened political tension in Zamfara, a state already facing challenges of insecurity and governance disputes. Political watchers believe Marafa’s exit from APC may further reshape the dynamics of Zamfara politics ahead of upcoming elections. For many party members, the lack of unity within APC remains a recurring issue across several states, fueling fears that internal wrangling may weaken its national dominance.
The residents of Akpabuyo Local Government Area in Cross River State are charting a fresh path centered on peace, security, and economic growth, as they marked the 34th anniversary of the council’s creation with cultural displays, community celebrations, and renewed commitment to progress. The event, held at the council headquarters, was filled with optimism as leaders and residents celebrated the return of peace to the area. Former PDP Deputy Governorship Candidate, Dr. Emana Duke Ambrose-Amawhe, expressed gratitude for the restoration of stability, emphasizing that insecurity in the past would have made such a large gathering impossible. She attributed the turnaround to the efforts of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, who she said had put measures in place to ensure calm. “Today, people can sleep peacefully in their homes. That is why you see people from far and near participating in this celebration,” she said. Akpabuyo’s Strategic Maritime Position Dr. Ambrose-Amawhe underscored the strategic location of Akpabuyo, describing it as a natural maritime gateway bordered by rivers, Bakassi, and the Atlantic Ocean. She revealed that ongoing projects such as dredging, deep-sea port development, and marine ecosystem preservation would transform the community into a hub for maritime trade and economic growth. She noted that farmers and fishermen are key beneficiaries of these government-backed initiatives. “With this pace of growth, Akpabuyo will play a vital role in advancing the economy of Cross River State and Nigeria. More jobs will bring more stability to our people,” she added. Revival of Historic Barter Trade Market One of the highlights of the celebration was the reopening of Akpabuyo’s unique barter trade market, the only one of its kind in West Africa, which had been shut down for years due to insecurity. The market revival, where locals traditionally exchange fish for garri and palm oil, was described as a symbol of cultural resilience and economic rebirth, while also showcasing the success of the APC-led government in promoting development. Dr. Emana emphasized the critical role of women, calling them the “backbone of agriculture and trade”, and praised empowerment programs aimed at supporting their involvement in farming and business. Council Chairman Celebrates Historic Anniversary The Chairman of Akpabuyo Local Government, Hon. Effiom Bassey Effiong, expressed joy at presiding over the council’s first-ever official anniversary celebration. “This is the birthday of Akpabuyo, and I am glad it happened during my administration. The turnout reflects how happy our people are, and next year will be even bigger,” he said. He credited the peace achieved in the area to Governor Bassey Otu, noting that the event was successful with only minimal security presence. Hon. Effiong highlighted the presence of Marine Police, Navy, Army, Air Force, and local vigilantes, which had ensured safety. He disclosed that foreign investors, including Chinese partners, have already acquired land to establish a university and industries, boosting local development. Transformation of Akpabuyo into a Commercial Hub The chairman also revealed plans to upgrade the barter market into a modern commercial hub, attracting more investors and expanding trade. Cross-border traders from Cameroon and neighboring regions are already contributing to increased economic activity. At the event, he urged Akpabuyo youths to preserve their cultural identity by learning and speaking the Efik language, which he warned was at risk of extinction among younger generations. “Our culture and traditions are valuable. We encourage our youths, especially those in higher institutions, to learn our mother tongue so it is not lost,” he appealed. Agriculture and Food Security at the Forefront Agriculture took center stage during the celebration. Effiong explained that Akpabuyo, being an agrarian community, has already begun benefiting from Governor Otu’s mechanized farming programs, which are creating jobs, enhancing food security, and developing rural areas. Reflecting on Akpabuyo’s creation from Odukpani Local Government in 1991, speakers agreed that the 34th anniversary was not just a cultural festival but a testament to Akpabuyo’s resilience, economic importance, and potential role in Nigeria’s maritime and agricultural future.
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In an inspiring turn of events, 10-year-old chess sensation, Mohammed Mubarak, is set to become the youngest athlete representing Yobe State at the highly anticipated 2025 National Youth Games (NYG) in Asaba, Delta State. Mubarak, who first discovered his love for chess at the tender age of seven, has been steadily making waves in the competitive chess scene through state and zonal elimination tournaments. His remarkable talent and early dedication to the game have earned him the prestigious opportunity to compete on a national stage. Speaking ahead of his departure for Asaba, the young prodigy shared his excitement and determination to perform at his best. He expressed gratitude to his family and coaches for nurturing his passion and providing the support necessary to excel in such a competitive environment. Chuxphoenix, Mubarak’s coach, expressed immense confidence in his abilities, highlighting that the young chess player has consistently demonstrated focus, discipline, and strategic skill in various competitions. “With his dedication, unwavering passion, and commitment to excellence, Mohammed Mubarak is poised to leave an indelible mark at the 2025 National Youth Games,” Chuxphoenix remarked. This national event will mark Mubarak’s debut at a high-level competition, and he is eager to showcase his talent alongside other young athletes from across Nigeria. His participation reflects the increasing prominence of chess as a competitive sport in the country and underscores the potential of young Nigerian athletes on the global stage. The 9th National Youth Games are scheduled to take place in Asaba, Delta State, from August 29 to September 6, 2025. The event will see participation from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), competing across 37 sports disciplines, including athletics, football, basketball, and more. Designed to foster unity, discipline, and national pride, the NYG provides a platform for Nigeria’s youth to demonstrate their sporting talents and gain valuable exposure. Mohammed Mubarak’s journey is not just about personal achievement; it is a testament to the opportunities sports provide for young Nigerians. As the countdown to the 2025 NYG continues, Mubarak’s story will inspire countless children across the country to pursue their dreams, whether on the chessboard or in other sporting arenas. For more updates on Nigerian youth sports and upcoming events, check our National Sports Coverage and Yobe State Youth Talent sections.
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ABUJA – The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has officially declared an increase in fees for the Nigerian standard passport, with the revised rates set to take effect on September 1, 2025. This update comes as part of the Service’s effort to maintain the quality and reliability of passport services within the country. According to a statement published on its official X handle by the NIS Public Relations Officer, ACI Akinsola Akinlabi, the new charges will apply exclusively to passport applications submitted within Nigeria, while fees for Nigerians living abroad remain unaffected. New Passport Fee Structure in Nigeria Under the new fee structure: It is important to note that passport application fees for Nigerians in the diaspora remain unchanged. Applicants outside Nigeria will continue to pay $150 for a 32-page passport with five-year validity and $230 for a 64-page passport with ten-year validity. Purpose of the Fee Adjustment The Nigeria Immigration Service explained that the fee increase is intended to sustain the quality and integrity of the Nigerian passport while ensuring efficient service delivery for all applicants. The Service emphasized that it remains committed to striking a balance between accessibility and premium service standards. “The Service remains dedicated to maintaining high-quality passport services while ensuring that they are accessible to all Nigerians,” the NIS statement said. NIS Statement on Passport Fee Review In full, the statement reads: “In a bid to uphold the quality and integrity of the Nigerian Passport, the Nigeria Immigration Service hereby announces an upward review of Nigerian Standard Passport fees, set to take effect on 1st September 2025. The review, which only affects passport application fees made in Nigeria, now sets a new fee threshold for a 32-page passport with 5-year validity at ₦100,000 and a 64-page passport with 10-year validity at ₦200,000. Meanwhile, Nigerian passport application fees for Nigerians in the diaspora remain unchanged at $150 for a 32-page passport with 5-year validity and $230 for a 64-page passport with 10-year validity. The Service reiterates its commitment to balancing quality service delivery with the need to ensure passport services are accessible to all Nigerians.” The new fee structure is expected to enhance the efficiency and reliability of passport issuance in Nigeria, ensuring smoother processing and improved service for all applicants. What This Means for Nigerians Applicants planning to obtain a Nigerian passport within the country should prepare for the updated fees starting September 1, 2025. Those living abroad will not be affected, and they can continue to apply at the existing fee rates. For more details on how to apply for a Nigerian passport and other related immigration services, visit the official Nigeria Immigration Service website.
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The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Education, has celebrated the outstanding achievement of 17-year-old Nafisa Abdullah Aminu, who emerged as the World’s Best English Language Skills Student at the 2025 TeenEagle Global Finals held in London, United Kingdom. To honour this remarkable accomplishment, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, presented Nafisa with a cheque of ₦200,000 during a special recognition ceremony in Abuja. The event was graced by prominent dignitaries such as the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suiwaba Ahmed; the Yobe State Commissioner for Basic Education, Prof. Abba Adam; senior officials from the Federal Ministry of Education; as well as representatives from the Yobe State Ministry of Education. Additionally, five other winners from different categories of the global competition were also present at the event. Commending Nafisa’s brilliance, Dr. Alausa described her achievement as clear evidence of the intellectual capacity and resilience of Nigerian students. He stressed that such international recognition highlights the urgent need for sustained investment in Nigeria’s education sector and the creation of more platforms that allow young Nigerians to display their talents globally. He further assured that the Federal Government remains fully committed to encouraging academic excellence by offering scholarships, mentorship opportunities, and improved access to quality educational resources. According to him, Nafisa’s global victory should serve as an inspiration to other Nigerian students to pursue their dreams with commitment, discipline, and consistency. Similarly, the Yobe State Commissioner for Basic Education, Prof. Abba Adam, praised Nafisa and her fellow winners, describing them as “Amazons” and shining examples of resilience. He emphasized that their achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a symbol of the collective educational progress of Yobe State, which has been undergoing significant rebuilding after years of insurgency challenges. “Today is indeed a celebration of victory,” Prof. Adam said. “It is the victory of resilience, and also the victory of a governor who strongly believes in the transformative power of education as the key to the future of his people and the state.” He further highlighted recent achievements in Yobe State’s education system, including the successful graduation of 171 state-sponsored medical students from Indian universities, who are now actively serving in hospitals across the state. In addition, he mentioned the upgrades in the state’s colleges of education, agriculture, and business studies, aimed at strengthening teaching, research, and training capacity. In her acceptance speech, Nafisa expressed deep gratitude to her parents, teachers, mentors, and the Nigerian government for their unwavering support. She pledged to use her platform to inspire her peers across the country and urged Nigerian youths to embrace hard work, perseverance, and self-confidence, stressing that they can also achieve global recognition. Nafisa also unveiled her personal initiative titled “English Language for Peace and Development”, which is designed to promote literacy, dialogue, and social cohesion among young people, thereby using education as a tool for unity and positive change.
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The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) in Ekiti State, through its Director, Engr. Simon Adeniran Adeniyi, has provided detailed explanations regarding the difficulties affecting the maintenance of federal roads across the state. According to Adeniyi, one of the biggest challenges confronting road maintenance in Ekiti State is the heavy rainfall during the rainy season, which makes it nearly impossible to carry out meaningful construction or rehabilitation work. The weather condition has slowed down several ongoing projects and limited the agency’s ability to deliver on its mandate. FERMA’s Role in Road Maintenance Engr. Adeniyi clarified that the core responsibility of FERMA is maintaining existing roads, while major reconstruction and rehabilitation works fall under the Federal Ministry of Works. This distinction, he said, often causes delays because some citizens expect FERMA to handle reconstruction, which is not within the agency’s jurisdiction. Government Commitment to Road Rehabilitation Despite the challenges, Adeniyi assured residents that the Federal Government remains committed to ensuring that roads in Ekiti State are fixed and properly maintained. He emphasized that although weather conditions have slowed progress, work will resume in full force immediately after the rainy season. Several critical federal roads in Ekiti State are currently undergoing construction or rehabilitation, including: These roads are essential for transportation, trade, and connectivity, and once completed, they are expected to boost economic activities in the state. Funding Constraints and Contractor Challenges The FERMA Director further explained that another major obstacle is funding. Contractors, according to him, often face difficulties accessing funds for road projects. He clarified that FERMA operates on a performance-based system where contractors are only paid after the successful completion of assigned projects. While this ensures accountability, it has also slowed down the pace of work in some cases. Citizens Urged to Remain Patient Adeniyi appealed to citizens to remain patient, noting that the agency is fully aware of the deplorable condition of some federal roads in Ekiti State. He assured them that once the rainy season ends and funding challenges are addressed, progress will become visible across different project sites. The FERMA Director’s remarks bring relief to many Ekiti residents who have long expressed dissatisfaction with the poor state of roads. With the Federal Government’s ongoing commitment, citizens can expect improved infrastructure, better road networks, and enhanced transportation across the state in the near future.
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The General Overseer and Senior Pastor of Omega Fire Ministries, Apostle Johnson Suleman, has sparked online debate after clarifying his position on oral sex within marriage. According to the cleric, oral sex is not a sin when practiced between legally married couples, provided it is free from fetish or ritualistic undertones. This statement came during a recent church program, where Apostle Suleman addressed questions from members of his congregation. A video clip of his response has since gone viral across several social media platforms, drawing diverse reactions from Christians and non-Christians alike. When asked directly whether oral sex is sinful, the cleric replied with a biblical perspective: “Anything done between a husband and wife in the privacy of their home is not a sin, so long as both parties are in agreement. When Scripture speaks of the wife of your youth, it emphasizes marital intimacy. If it is not fetish, ritualistic, or diabolical, then it is not wrong.” Apostle Suleman further addressed a common objection raised by Christians, where some argue that it is improper to use the same mouth for both worship and sexual intimacy. He countered this view by saying: “Many people gossip, tell lies, and still use the same mouth to worship God. So why condemn oral sex in marriage?” While acknowledging that his position might not sit well with everyone, the cleric stood firm in his conviction: “I know many will disagree, but oral sex is not a sin.” His response continues to stir widespread conversations across the Christian community, with some applauding his openness and others expressing reservations.
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Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Church, Paul Adefarasin, has expressed strong views about the foundation of Nigeria, stating that he does not believe the country was created by God. During his Sunday sermon, Pastor Adefarasin emphasized that Nigeria’s formation was not the result of divine purpose but rather a product of British colonial ambitions. He explained that the geographical and political structuring of Nigeria was largely influenced by foreign powers who prioritized financial gain and empire expansion over the destiny of its people. The respected cleric openly challenged the popular notion that Nigeria was divinely ordained, stressing that historical evidence points instead to colonial negotiations and power struggles. According to Adefarasin: “Nigeria, I do not believe it was created by God. I believe that Queen Elizabeth entered into an arrangement with the Ottoman Empire concerning Sudan. Those who want more details can read the book The Martyrdom of Man. It clearly shows how two empires divided territories, assigning this land to the sons of Ishmael. This is not merely political; it’s a historical reality.” He went on to explain that while this discussion is not primarily political, it is essential for the church to acknowledge its role in correcting what human systems and colonial manipulations distorted. Pastor Adefarasin stressed that the church is the light of the world and the salt of the earth, with a responsibility to influence society positively. Furthermore, the preacher declared that Nigeria’s constitution lacks legitimacy. He argued that it was written and imposed by military rulers rather than developed through the genuine will and participation of the people. Citing Psalm 11:3, Adefarasin compared Nigeria to a house built on shaky foundations, stressing that any nation without a solid base cannot stand firmly. He further criticised the deep-seated corruption and inefficiency within the Nigerian leadership system. According to him, the state of poor road construction across the nation is not just an infrastructure problem but also a reflection of a broken system and failed leadership structure. Adefarasin’s message resonated strongly with many Nigerians who often question the authenticity of the country’s foundation and the failures that continue to affect its governance. His bold statement has sparked widespread debate about the historical and political roots of Nigeria’s creation and its current struggles.
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The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos State branch, has warned that it may embark on a solidarity strike in support of the Medical Guild, following unresolved disputes over salary deductions and unpaid wages. According to the NMA, the Lagos State Government implemented controversial salary deductions in July 2025, leaving many doctors without full pay. The association is demanding the immediate refund of the deducted wages and the complete payment of August salaries no later than August 25, 2025. This resolution was passed during an Emergency General Meeting (EGM), where members critically reviewed the Medical Guild’s 21-day ultimatum issued to the Lagos State Government. Long-Standing Issues Resurface Beyond the immediate crisis, doctors highlighted unresolved welfare concerns that have persisted for years. These include: The association emphasized that doctors are entitled to their rightful wages, regardless of when arrears were accumulated. In a communiqué signed by Dr. Saheed Kehinde, Chairman of NMA Lagos, the body warned that it would commence its strike two weeks after the Medical Guild begins its own industrial action, should the government fail to resolve the crisis. Salary Deduction Timeline The controversy surrounding salary cuts has been ongoing since April 23, 2025, when the Lagos State Government first introduced deductions. Following widespread protests, the policy was briefly reversed. However, on July 23, 2025, the deductions resurfaced, prompting the Medical Guild to embark on a three-day warning strike between July 28 and 30, 2025. Despite the action, salaries were not refunded, pushing the Guild to issue a firm ultimatum that expires on August 25, 2025. Welfare Concerns at LUTH Another key point of contention is the lack of call duty meals for doctors at LUTH, which has persisted for more than five years. At a February 2025 meeting with Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, Chief Medical Director of LUTH, hospital management suggested introducing a paid canteen system instead of reinstating free call duty meals. The NMA rejected this proposal outright, insisting that meals must be provided free of charge for doctors on duty, as is the standard in other federal institutions. On skipping arrears, the NMA noted that while several teaching hospitals across Nigeria had already settled these payments, LUTH doctors remain excluded. The association declared it will continue to push until these entitlements are fulfilled. Call for Government Intervention In its communiqué, the NMA called on the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, to collaborate with relevant ministries and agencies to: The association described the deductions as “obnoxious and crisis-prone,” stressing that failure to act would worsen the already fragile health system in Lagos State.
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The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has stressed the urgent need for every Nigerian citizen to acquire combat skills for self-defence in order to protect themselves during moments of danger and uncertainty. General Musa gave this strong recommendation on Thursday while appearing as a guest on Politics Today, a popular programme aired on Channels Television. According to him, acquiring basic combat knowledge is not just about military training but should be seen as a vital survival instinct similar to essential skills like driving and swimming. Combat Skills as Essential Survival Knowledge When asked if Nigerians should deliberately pursue combat training for self-defence, General Musa responded emphatically, stating that such training must be regarded as compulsory. He explained: “That one should be taken just like learning how to drive or learning how to swim. Whether the nation faces war or not, self-defence remains a fundamental survival skill.” Drawing comparisons with Europe, he highlighted how swimming is made compulsory in schools. In the same way, he suggested that security awareness and unarmed combat should be introduced into Nigeria’s basic education and training structures. NYSC Should Incorporate Combat Training General Musa also recommended that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) integrate unarmed combat skills into the program for Nigerian graduates. According to him, such knowledge would empower young Nigerians to defend themselves in everyday situations, especially against individuals with criminal or violent tendencies. He emphasized that the NYSC scheme could play a strategic role in ensuring that Nigerian youths graduate with both academic knowledge and practical defence training for real-life survival. Security Is Everyone’s Responsibility The Defence Chief further reminded citizens that national security is a collective responsibility. He urged Nigerians to be vigilant, to remain aware of their environment, and to quickly recognize strange or suspicious individuals. He concluded by stressing that awareness and preparedness are crucial, not only for personal protection but also for national safety and resilience in the face of insecurity.
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The Nigerian maritime industry is facing stronger regulatory oversight as the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) takes firm steps to enforce international environmental standards. This latest move focuses on the implementation of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), especially Annex VI, which deals directly with air pollution caused by vessels. Annex VI was developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to address harmful emissions and reduce environmental risks linked to shipping operations. Dr. Dayo Mobereola, the Director General of NIMASA, emphasized that full compliance with MARPOL Annex VI provisions is not optional but a mandatory obligation for all vessels navigating Nigerian territorial waters. According to him, this directive forms part of Nigeria’s broader strategic objective to ensure maritime safety, environmental protection, and alignment with globally recognized best practices in the shipping industry. Reiterating the agency’s commitment, Dr. Mobereola explained that NIMASA has issued a Marine Notice to guide stakeholders including shipowners, charterers, and shipping companies on how to comply with these regulations. He further highlighted that while NIMASA continues to encourage the growth of shipping businesses in Nigeria, the agency remains resolute in ensuring that international standards are strictly upheld without compromise. This development reflects Nigeria’s increasing determination to minimize the environmental impact of its shipping sector and contribute to global efforts aimed at reducing maritime emissions. By enforcing MARPOL Annex VI, NIMASA seeks to protect not only Nigeria’s territorial waters but also strengthen the country’s reputation as a responsible player in the global maritime community.
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The Abia State government has announced a firm commitment to clamp down on individuals or groups engaged in spreading misleading information and deliberate falsehood against the state. Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, made this disclosure on Monday during a media briefing after the weekly executive council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti. According to him, while the present administration will not resort to the repressive tactics used by past governments to silence critics, it will also not allow malicious actors to destabilize the state with fake reports. “This government will not operate like previous administrations that used a gestapo-style approach to arrest and intimidate citizens, thereby trampling on their rights. However, we will not sit idly by while a few individuals intentionally mislead the public with outright falsehoods about the Abia government,” Kanu stressed. Rising Concerns Over Spread of Falsehood The Commissioner raised concerns about the alarming trend of fabricated reports circulating across media platforms, noting that such activities not only misinform the public but also threaten peace and unity in the state. He emphasized that the administration is fully transparent and not withholding information from citizens. Kanu reiterated that those responsible for creating and distributing harmful narratives against the state would face the law, as the government intends to protect the integrity of governance and shield the public from deliberate misinformation. Strengthening Governance and Economic Management During the briefing, Kanu also announced that Friday Kalu Ohuche had officially been sworn in as the Chief Economic Adviser of Abia State. In addition, Governor Otti inaugurated the State’s Economic Management Team, which will provide guidance on financial and developmental matters. He clarified that the establishment of the new economic management team does not dissolve or replace the Abia Global Economic Advisory Council. The council remains intact with respected members including: This dual framework, according to the Commissioner, will ensure Abia benefits from both localized economic strategies and global expertise, thereby strengthening governance and economic progress. The Commissioner concluded by reaffirming the Otti administration’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and the rule of law, stressing that while citizens are free to express their views, they must not abuse this freedom by spreading unfounded allegations.
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Despite Nigeria recording its fourth consecutive inflation rate decline, ordinary citizens and business owners continue to feel little to no relief from the country’s harsh economic conditions. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the latest data shows that Nigeria’s inflation rate dropped to 21.88 percent in July, compared to 22.22 percent in June. This downward trend has been in place since April 2025, when inflation stood at 23.7 percent on a month-to-month basis. The presidency has welcomed this development, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration highlighting it as evidence of progress under his two-year leadership. The government has also pointed to growth in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which climbed to ₦372.8 trillion in 2024 after being rebased in July 2025. Similarly, Nigeria’s inflation rate was rebased in January 2025, pushing year-on-year inflation down sharply to 24.48 percent from 34.80 percent. During her recent visit to President Tinubu, former Finance Minister and current World Trade Organization Director-General, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, acknowledged that the economy appeared to be stabilizing. Rising Prices Despite Positive Reports However, while these statistical figures present a positive picture, Nigerians on the ground argue that the cost of living continues to worsen. Key expenses such as food, fuel, transportation, and energy remain alarmingly high: These realities create a sharp contrast between the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports and the daily struggles of Nigerian households and businesses. Experts Split on Inflation Data Economic experts remain divided on the interpretation of the inflation figures. Mazi Okechukwu Unegbu, former President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), expressed doubts over the accuracy of the inflation data released by NBS. “There is a huge gap between the figures presented by NBS and the reality Nigerians face daily. These statistics look impressive on paper, but in real life, hunger and hardship remain widespread,” Unegbu said in an interview with LMSINT MEDIA. He further urged the government to prioritize reducing hunger, reviewing interest rates, and improving agricultural policies, rather than celebrating statistics that do not reflect lived realities. Gbolade Idakolo, Chief Executive Officer of SD & D Capital Management, echoed similar concerns, stressing that food inflation continues to rise due to insecurity in farming regions, the unstable exchange rate, and high costs of agricultural inputs. “Imported food items remain expensive, while logistics, especially energy and transportation of farm produce, are major contributors to rising food inflation. The government must take stronger action to address these factors,” Idakolo noted. Meanwhile, renowned economist and former CIBN President, Prof. Segun Ajibola, offered an explanation for the contrasting statistics. He explained that inflation rates are calculated based on a basket of consumable items within the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Since not all goods and services are included, the decline reported may not reflect the realities of all households across Nigeria. “The data depends on the selection of items surveyed. While the prices of some items in the CPI basket may decline, many others outside the basket remain expensive. Therefore, NBS reports are estimates that may differ from actual market realities,” Prof. Ajibola explained. Conclusion While Nigeria celebrates a fourth consecutive inflation decline, the economic burden on citizens remains severe. The gap between statistical improvements and real-life hardships highlights the urgent need for government action on food security, energy pricing, and agricultural reforms to ensure that inflation control truly translates into relief for Nigerians.
