The Nigerian Cassava Growers Association (NCGA) has voiced serious concerns over the alleged illegal transfer of 6,000 hectares of farmland located in Ipao-Ekiti to a private firm, Agbeyewa Group of Companies. The group claims the Ekiti State Government unlawfully reassigned land that had already been officially allocated to them. During a press briefing in Abuja, NCGA’s National President, Mustapha Othman Bakano, revealed that the land in question had been acquired through a collective financial contribution by members of the association, with the explicit purpose of developing an ethanol plant project in partnership with Nosak Group. According to Bakano, the project plan encompassed the acquisition of 6,000 hectares in Ekiti State and an additional 12,000 hectares in Kogi State, all aimed at securing a steady cassava supply for industrial ethanol production. He further detailed that multiple federal bodies, including the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Office of the Surveyor General, and the National Environmental Protection Agency, were all involved at various phases of the initiative. Bakano lamented that although several consultations and site assessments had been conducted with Ekiti State officials and project collaborators, no objections were raised at any point—until the Agbeyewa Group reportedly took over the land during the waiting period for regulatory clearance. “We were in the process of obtaining essential environmental permits from the Federal Ministry of Environment when the Agbeyewa Group encroached on the land,” Bakano explained. “We finally secured the needed approval on April 12, 2022, but by that time, the company had already begun operations on the site illegally.” He warned both prospective investors and institutions to avoid engaging with the Agbeyewa Group, emphasizing that the property is currently the subject of an ongoing legal case: Suit No. HCL/16/22 in the Ekiti State High Court. Highlighting NCGA’s dedication to empowering local communities, Bakano said that 170 hectares out of the 400 hectares already cultivated had been distributed to local farmers and youths in Ipao-Ekiti through the Ekiti State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP). This was part of the broader vision to engage the local workforce in cassava farming for agro-industrial development. He expressed grave concerns that this unresolved conflict might jeopardize a transformative initiative capable of significantly improving the region’s rural economy. The cassava-to-ethanol project is projected to generate over 1,000 jobs and stimulate commercial growth across Ekiti and its surrounding areas. Bakano also noted that the ethanol processing plant, designed to produce 150,000 litres of ethanol daily, would rely heavily on cassava sourced from the disputed farmland. “To stabilize the cassava market, particularly during oversupply seasons, we opted to establish a dedicated processing facility,” he stated. “That’s why we acquired the farmland near the proposed ethanol plant—to streamline supply chain logistics.” He concluded by urging the Ekiti State Government to reverse the land reallocation and return the 6,000 hectares to the rightful owners. He also appealed to members of the association to remain calm, assuring them that NCGA’s leadership is making every effort to reach a just resolution.
Dr. Paul Enenche, the Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, has humbly declined a ₦30 million donation from Kebbi State’s Governor, Nasir Idris. Instead, he encouraged that the donation be directed toward orphanages or other impactful charitable organizations. This event took place during a recent evangelical outreach crusade organized by the church in Kebbi State, which drew a massive crowd. The generous contribution was publicly announced by the governor’s representative at the event as a token of appreciation for Pastor Enenche’s spiritual leadership and presence in the state. Governor Idris, who was unable to attend in person, was represented by Zayyanu Umar Aliero, the Commissioner for Social Duties in Kebbi State. Aliero stated that the ₦30 million donation was readily available in cash and could be presented to the church immediately. However, in an unexpected yet powerful response, Pastor Enenche graciously declined the monetary offer. Speaking directly to the audience, he expressed gratitude for the kind gesture but insisted that the church would not accept the money. “We deeply appreciate the kind-heartedness of the governor,” Pastor Enenche said, “but we cannot accept this money. Please, redirect it to orphanages or any other charitable initiative of your choosing.” The governor’s envoy acknowledged Pastor Enenche’s humble disposition and respected his decision with appreciation and admiration. Since the incident, the video of Pastor Enenche’s response has gone viral on social media, garnering widespread commendation from Nigerians and beyond. Many have hailed his integrity and unwavering spiritual principles, particularly his refusal to accept public funds during a religious gathering.
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The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has reiterated the agency’s resolve to ensure that recovered assets from corrupt practices are returned for the benefit of Nigerian citizens. Olukoyede delivered this message on Wednesday while touring the Federal University of Applied Sciences located in Kachia, Southern Kaduna. This university, previously known as Nok University, was officially forfeited to the federal government by court ruling after it was linked to suspicious financial activities. Following a presidential directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the EFCC transferred the institution for public use, transforming it into an educational center. “This is now a property of the people,” Olukoyede affirmed. “There will be no more re-looting of recovered items. The old order has ended.” He attributed the initiative to President Tinubu’s leadership, acknowledging the critical roles played by Vice President Kashim Shettima and Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State in making the transition possible. The EFCC Chairman expressed admiration for the university’s existing infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of local community involvement in protecting the facility. “Many universities lack what has been established here. It’s now your responsibility to maintain it for coming generations,” he urged. Olukoyede also disclosed that the school is expected to welcome its first set of students by September 2025. He pledged to revisit the institution once academic activities begin. “This is the true purpose of anti-corruption efforts—restoring stolen wealth to its rightful owners: the Nigerian people,” he declared. Prof. Barnabas Qurix, the Vice Chancellor of the newly rebranded university, hailed the event as a monumental development for the region. Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, representing Kaduna South in the Senate, also lauded the transformation, describing it as a breakthrough for a region long overlooked in national development plans.
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Iran’s Supreme Leader Rejects U.S. Demands Amid Worsening Conflict Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, on Tuesday vowed that Iran would never bow to external pressure, warning the United States of severe consequences if it decides to intervene in the current conflict. This came shortly after Israel claimed it had demolished the Iranian Internal Security Headquarters in Tehran. This declaration arrived as the crisis entered its sixth day. U.S. President Donald Trump announced that his patience with Iran had run out, but held back from confirming any American military action. Meanwhile, Amnesty International called on both Iran and Israel to prioritize the safety of civilians as the violence intensifies and death tolls rise. Khamenei Condemns U.S. Demands, Slams Israel for Attacking During Nuclear Talks In a televised national address, Khamenei denounced Trump’s demand for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” as utterly unacceptable. He criticized Israel for initiating military strikes during sensitive nuclear negotiations between Iran and the U.S. “This country will never accept any form of imposition. America must understand that any military intrusion will result in damage it cannot recover from,” said Khamenei. In his role as Iran’s ultimate authority since 1989, Khamenei reaffirmed Iran’s uncompromising stance toward Israel. Iran’s UN Mission Reiterates Resistance In a strong statement via X (formerly Twitter), Iran’s delegation to the United Nations stressed the country’s refusal to negotiate or make peace under pressure. “No official in Iran has ever begged at the doors of the White House,” the statement read. “The only thing worse than Trump’s lies is his attempt to threaten Iran’s Supreme Leader. Iran will respond to any threats with equal or greater measures.” Israeli Air Raids Hit Iranian Security and Nuclear Facilities Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reported that Israeli fighter jets had targeted and obliterated the headquarters of Iran’s internal security forces, described as a key tool of suppression under the Iranian regime. “Our air force has demolished Iran’s internal security command— a major symbol of authoritarianism. We will strike Iran’s power centers wherever they exist,” Gallant stated. Earlier attacks by Israeli forces reportedly destroyed buildings manufacturing centrifuge parts for Iran’s nuclear facilities. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), these strikes took place near Tehran and in Karaj. Additionally, a third structure where advanced centrifuge rotors were developed was struck, escalating concerns over nuclear instability. Daily Life in Iran Disrupted as Conflict Intensifies The situation in Iran has resulted in fuel shortages and panic buying. Long queues for petrol are now common, according to eyewitnesses at the Bashmakh border crossing with Iraq. “There’s no rice, bread, sugar or tea,” reported a distressed Iranian, Fatah. Another source, a car dealer named Shwan, said: “People are confused and scared. They don’t know what step to take.” Iran Retaliates with Hypersonic Missiles In a major retaliatory move, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards launched Fattah-1 hypersonic missiles at Tel Aviv. These weapons are capable of traveling over five times the speed of sound, with the ability to maneuver mid-flight—making them difficult to intercept. Though none of the missiles reached Tel Aviv, AFP images showed Israel’s air defense systems activated in response. Amnesty International Urges Restraint from Both Nations Calling for the protection of non-combatants, Amnesty International pleaded with both nations to respect civilian safety. “As deaths and injuries climb, both sides must uphold their legal duties to avoid making civilians suffer,” said Agnes Callamard, Amnesty’s Secretary-General. She criticized the U.S. and other G7 nations for focusing on geopolitical gains rather than preventing human suffering. Countries Worldwide Rush to Evacuate Citizens With both Israeli and Iranian residential areas under fire, countries around the world have begun evacuating their nationals due to cancelled flights and closed airspaces. Key Evacuation Updates: Israel Begins Easing Internal Restrictions Despite the ongoing conflict, Israel is preparing to gradually reopen its economy. According to Defence Minister Katz, this is a symbolic victory against Iran. “While Iran tries to cripple us, we’re reopening in defiance,” he said. From Wednesday evening through Friday night, security guidelines were shifted from “essential” to “limited” in several areas, allowing businesses with shelters to reopen. However, schools, beaches, and large public gatherings remain suspended. Timeline of the Conflict After decades of tension, the war erupted Friday when Israel launched a full-scale bombing operation. Iran retaliated with drone and missile attacks. Casualty Figures (as of Monday):
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MAKURDI, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed to address the issue of land-grabbing, which is suspected to be at the root of the recurrent killings by suspected armed herdsmen in Benue State, head-on. During his visit to Benue State following the gruesome massacre of more than 200 individuals at Yelwata last Friday, Tinubu emphasized his administration’s readiness to bring peace to the region. He also announced the creation of a peace-seeking committee comprising former state governors and two influential traditional rulers. The violent attacks left several homes burnt and displaced hundreds of residents, many of whom have now found refuge in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps. While speaking at a town hall meeting in Makurdi, the President stressed that he came to listen to the people and help them find lasting peace, calling it essential for development. “We were not elected to conduct burials or raise orphans. We are here to foster peace,” Tinubu declared. “If this is about land-grabbing, we must confront it. Nigeria has enough land for everyone. We need to share, coexist, and foster joy and prosperity. That’s the path to lasting peace.” He referenced Nigeria’s national anthem to reinforce unity: “Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand.” Formation of Peace Committee Tinubu directed the establishment of a committee of elders to propose a sustainable solution to the conflict. This committee, he said, would include former state governors, non-indigenes, and the paramount rulers of the Tiv and Idoma communities — the Tor Tiv and the Och’Idoma. “Let us set up a strong council of elders. I will invest in peace. We will turn this challenge into progress,” Tinubu said, stating that the group would convene in Abuja. Before the town hall, Tinubu visited the survivors of the Yelwata massacre who are receiving treatment at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital. “Though I couldn’t reach Yelwata due to rain and poor roads, I reviewed the damage through video footage. We will rehabilitate and rebuild that area.” The President demanded answers from the Inspector General of Police on the failure to make arrests. “Why haven’t any of the killers been arrested? IGP, where are the arrests? These criminals must face justice,” Tinubu ordered. He also tasked the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) with intensifying surveillance and collecting actionable intelligence to apprehend the perpetrators. Local Leaders React Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue thanked President Tinubu for being the first sitting president to visit the state in response to insecurity. “Your visit, despite our tears and pain, gives us hope. We believe this is the beginning of true peace for our people,” he said. Governor Alia also advocated for the creation of state police, suggesting that the Federal Government should work out an implementation framework to alleviate concerns about the idea. Tor Tiv, HRM Orchivirigh Prof James Ayatse, made an emotional appeal to the President, urging him to address the real cause of the crisis. “This is not a farmer-herder clash. It is a deliberate, well-orchestrated genocide and land takeover by herder-terrorists,” the monarch said. He warned that politicizing the crisis had hindered effective response and accused some politicians of hoping the situation would worsen for political gains. “All we ask is for peace in Benue, so our people can return to farming and feed the nation.” He referenced Tinubu’s past success in resolving similar crises in Kwara’s Kaiama and expressed confidence in his ability to replicate such resolution in Benue. Humanitarian Crisis in Nasarawa Following the Yelwata massacre, over 3,000 displaced persons have sought refuge in Nasarawa State. They are now scattered across four IDP camps: Kadarko, Agyaragu, Idadu, and Kpata. Mr. Benjamin Akwash, Director-General of the Nasarawa State Emergency Management Agency (NASEMA), confirmed the development, revealing the agency had already distributed relief materials to some of the victims prior to the attack. According to him, the IDP population includes: Akwash added that the agency was still compiling accurate headcounts to finalize plans for further distribution of aid. An assessment of the camps revealed dire conditions, particularly in Agyaragu, where women and children sleep on bare floors and lack access to food and medical care. “We left everything behind because of this brutal attack,” lamented Mary Iyorhe, an IDP at Agyaragu. Other displaced women shared their plight, complaining about hunger, poor sanitation, and mosquito infestations, which have prevented them from sleeping.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated the inclusion of all former governors of Benue State, as well as the sitting Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule, in the newly formed Benue Committee of Elders. This development was made known on Wednesday through a post shared by Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle. Providing details from President Tinubu’s directive, Sunday Dare—who was part of the presidential team that visited communities affected by the most recent tragic attacks—disclosed that the President had instructed Governor Hyacinth Alia to embrace all key players in the state. Tinubu advised Alia to adopt a non-partisan and inclusive approach, acting as a father figure to every citizen of the state, regardless of political affiliations or ethnic backgrounds. Additionally, President Tinubu encouraged the Benue populace to unite and support government efforts to achieve enduring peace in the region. The directive follows a devastating attack in Yelewata village, where over 200 individuals lost their lives, with many others suffering injuries and forced displacement. The President stressed the critical role that traditional rulers must play in restoring peace. He emphasized their collaboration with the Benue State Government in sustaining law and order. Furthermore, he urged Governor Alia to allocate land specifically for ranching, identifying it as a solution to one of the main factors fueling the prolonged conflict. According to Tinubu, the restructured Benue Elders Committee, now expanded to include all previous state governors and Governor Sule of Nasarawa, will serve as a vital advisory and mediatory body to strengthen the peacebuilding process in the state.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu visited Benue State on Wednesday in a show of solidarity with the grieving communities affected by the recent killings in Yelwata, located in Guma Local Government Area. The violent incident, which claimed hundreds of lives, drew nationwide condemnation and concern over the region’s security. During his visit, President Tinubu engaged with major stakeholders in the state to discuss actionable responses and to offer federal support in addressing the escalating conflict. Presidential Orders and Appeals During the Benue Visit In a decisive response to the security crisis, President Tinubu issued several directives during a town hall meeting with the Benue State Governor and high-ranking security officials: The visit by the President has been viewed as a significant gesture of empathy and responsibility, with citizens hoping that the directives will translate into practical steps towards ending the cycle of violence in the state.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a visit to the victims who survived last Friday’s tragic attack in the Yelwata community, located in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the president landed in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, on Wednesday. Upon arrival at the Tactical Air Command of the Nigerian Air Force Base in Makurdi around 12:58 pm, he proceeded directly to the hospital. Following the hospital visit, President Tinubu departed for the new Banquet Hall at the Benue State Government House. There, he was scheduled to meet with key stakeholders across the state in response to the series of violent incidents that have claimed many lives. In anticipation of the president’s arrival, the Benue State Government declared a public holiday to honor his visit. The president’s visit came after the violent assault on the Yelwata community, which reportedly resulted in the death of over 200 people, leaving many others with injuries. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers arrived early in the morning and split into three separate groups. This strategy allowed them to attack the community from various entry points. Locals at the scene stated that the assailants began shooting in different directions, creating confusion and overwhelming the efforts of community security personnel.
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Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has expressed strong disapproval of the Benue State Government for organizing a student parade under poor weather conditions to welcome President Bola Tinubu. President Tinubu recently visited Makurdi, the Benue State capital, in response to the tragic incidents involving armed herders in Yelwata, a community within Guma Local Government Area, as well as other affected regions across the state. Ahead of his arrival, a group of students was seen lined up along the roadside in Makurdi, under rainfall and unfavorable weather, to receive the President. Reacting to this, Ezekwesili voiced her concern about the welfare of these children, particularly noting that some of them could belong to families that have been victims of the herdsmen violence. Through a post on her official X (formerly Twitter) account, she stated: “The most painful part is that among these children could be some from families who are currently grieving their loved ones—yet they are made to stand under the rain to give a warm welcome to those who have shown absolutely no concern for them.” She continued by highlighting a deeper issue in Nigeria’s leadership system: “These acts reflect why Nigeria’s self-centered political class feels no pressure to correct their harmful behaviors and the poor governance that follows. They act like citizens are broken and subdued. But will this always be the case?” Ezekwesili concluded by affirming hope for change: “No. Because there remains one factor that these politicians constantly fail to consider—especially when they are intoxicated by the influence and privileges of public office.”
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent trip to Benue State on Tuesday has stirred widespread backlash after reports claimed that schoolchildren were allegedly made to stand in the rain to welcome him. Tinubu’s visit was initially scheduled as a sympathy mission to console victims of the brutal attack in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area, where suspected herdsmen had reportedly killed over 300 people. However, rather than being a solemn condolence mission, the President’s presence seemingly transformed into a political showcase, as crowds lined major routes in Makurdi carrying banners adorned with images of President Tinubu and Governor Hyacinth Alia. These signs were said to display messages that hinted at support for a second-term campaign. Although the Benue State Government declared a public holiday across the state to mark the visit, reports emerged that students from public schools were mobilized to participate in the reception. Many were reportedly soaked under heavy rainfall while standing for hours to welcome the President. Footage from the event swiftly circulated on social media, drawing massive criticism from Nigerians. “This is nonsense. If my child were there, I would go pick them up,” commented Ogwuche Anderson Paul. “Why should parents even let their children go to school today when a public holiday was declared?” questioned Felix Shaibu. “What a country,” lamented Anthony Q Da Singer. “No be child abuse be this?” wrote Boaz Jachin in outrage. The criticisms intensified when a previously shared directive from Francis U. Ngutswen, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Groups Mobilization, resurfaced online. The memo had encouraged political support groups to attend the welcome parade in large numbers. The message stated: “At the instance of our dear Governor, His Excellency Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Leader of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State, kindly mobilize massively to give a rousing welcome to our President… A colourful shoulder-to-shoulder procession from the Airport to Wurukum Roundabout and down to Government House, Makurdi, is expected.”
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A Nigerian civil advocacy group, the Centre for Reform and Public Advocacy, has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu lacks the constitutional authority to appoint officials for the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) tasked with overseeing local government elections. In light of this, the group has urged the Nigerian Senate to withhold confirmation of the President’s nominees for the role of Chairman and members of the Rivers electoral body. According to the group, the 1999 Nigerian Constitution exclusively empowers state governors to make such appointments, and allowing the President’s nominees to be confirmed would represent a serious constitutional violation. Furthermore, the group threatened to pursue legal action against the Senate if it proceeds with the approval of the President’s choices. In a formal letter sent to the Senate President and acknowledged by his office on June 17, the organization maintained that there is no vacancy at RSIEC. It emphasized that the current members were duly appointed and their tenure remains valid. The letter, which was signed by Barrister Kalu Agu Kalu, the Head of the Legal Unit of the Centre, emphasized that President Tinubu does not possess any constitutional or statutory mandate to appoint officials for any State Independent Electoral Commission, including Rivers State. The letter further reads: “We are a non-profit, pro-democracy, human rights, anti-corruption and public interest advocacy organization in Nigeria.In line with our mandate, we wish to bring to your attention that there is no vacancy in the RSIEC.This correspondence is in response to President Tinubu’s recent letter seeking Senate approval for the appointment of a Chairman and six members to RSIEC.It is important to highlight that Sections 197 and 198 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) clearly place the power to appoint RSIEC officials in the hands of the Governor of Rivers State, subject to confirmation by the Rivers State House of Assembly.The RSIEC is currently active and fulfilled its last constitutional responsibility during the October 5, 2024 Local Government Elections, although the results were later nullified by the Supreme Court.Furthermore, Section 201(1)(2) outlines the procedure for removing any RSIEC official. At present, no resignation or removal has been confirmed.” The group questioned the basis of President Tinubu’s move, highlighting that the existing RSIEC officials’ tenure is still active, and there has been no formal resignation or official notice of dismissal. It concluded by urging the Senate to stop any action aimed at confirming the President’s appointees, stating: “Should the Senate proceed with the confirmation process despite this warning, we will initiate a legal injunction within two days to prevent this constitutional breach.We trust that sound judgment will prevail to avoid unnecessary litigation and misuse of public funds.”
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The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his intervention and prompt visit to Benue State, aimed at fostering peace and stability in the troubled region. In an official statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, the association’s National President, Alhaji Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, praised the President’s decisive move and extended gratitude to federal authorities and security forces for their swift actions in quelling tensions in the affected communities. “We sincerely appreciate President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for his immediate intervention and personal visit to Benue,” the statement read. “We also acknowledge his bold stance in encouraging both political and traditional leadership in Benue to embrace peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding.” Othman-Ngelzarma emphasized that this gesture is expected to contribute significantly to restoring enduring peace not only in Benue but across the country. He offered heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian government, the people of Benue, and all affected citizens nationwide for the tragic loss of lives and destruction of properties in the wake of recent conflicts. Speaking on behalf of MACBAN, Othman-Ngelzarma reaffirmed the group’s dedication to national unity and peaceful living among Nigeria’s diverse ethnicities. “As the national body representing Fulani cattle breeders, MACBAN stands firmly for peace and harmonious relationships among the over 300 ethnic groups in Nigeria,” he stated. He also reiterated that as a key contributor to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the cattle-rearing sector has a vested interest in national unity and stability. Furthermore, the MACBAN president urged political, religious, and community leaders to encourage reconciliation and collaboration between farming communities and pastoralist groups in the state. He stressed the need to put an end to rhetoric that fuels division and undermines national cohesion. “We call on all stakeholders—traditional, political, and religious—to stop propagating narratives that trigger disunity and instead promote mutual tolerance,” he concluded.
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The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has raised concerns that persistent insecurity and escalating global tensions may further aggravate food price inflation across Nigeria. Speaking in Lagos on Tuesday, the Director-General of LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, highlighted these risks in reaction to the recently published May inflation report, which shows a slight decrease in the country’s headline inflation rate. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria’s inflation rate declined slightly to 22.97% in May 2025, down from 23.71% recorded in April. Dr. Almona interpreted this as a marginal but welcome improvement, noting that it breaks the pattern of continuous inflation growth over past months. She credited the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) efforts—such as interest rate hikes and liquidity tightening—as contributing factors to the modest decline. However, she cautioned that these improvements might not last if deeper structural threats are not addressed. She emphasized that the escalating farmer-herder conflicts in the Middle Belt, as well as recent flooding events, are likely to negatively impact food production and harvesting throughout the year. In addition, she pointed out that global conflicts, including the prolonged war between Russia and Ukraine and ongoing unrest in the Middle East, have disrupted international logistics and food supply chains. “These factors can severely impact harvest output and cause further disruptions in supply chains,” Almona warned. “Rising oil prices, caused by geopolitical instability and trade disputes, may also increase the cost of importing fuel and other critical products.” She emphasized that these combined shocks could significantly threaten food security and trigger heightened food inflation, especially in Q3 and Q4 of 2025, which are pivotal in Nigeria’s economic cycle. Dr. Almona urged the Nigerian government to intensify its efforts to tackle security challenges, strengthen agricultural infrastructure, and enhance policy collaboration between key economic sectors. She called for a coherent mix of fiscal and monetary reforms, particularly in the oil and gas sector, which has in the past helped slow fuel price surges.
