In a strategic move to bolster real-time surveillance of suspicious financial activities, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has unveiled a draft framework titled “Baseline Standards for Automated Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Solutions“. This initiative aims to support financial institutions in adopting cutting-edge technology that improves the identification and reporting of suspicious transactions. The draft was disclosed in a letter addressed to all financial institutions and signed by Dr. Olubukola Akinwunmi, Director of Banking Supervision at the CBN. The apex bank is currently seeking feedback and suggestions from industry stakeholders before finalizing the document. According to the letter, the CBN remains firmly dedicated to safeguarding the resilience and trustworthiness of Nigeria’s banking infrastructure. In response to the rapid digitization and the growing presence of innovative financial tools, the bank developed this new set of standards to promote compliance and operational efficiency in tackling money laundering, terrorism financing, and the financing of proliferation (AML/CFT/CPF). These standards were informed by an in-depth evaluation of existing anti-money laundering systems in the financial sector. The framework aligns with global standards, including recommendations from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)—a leading international body dedicated to combating financial crimes. Key objectives of the standards include: The draft, which has been circulated for industry input, proposes a system-wide adoption of AI-powered tools to monitor and analyze financial behaviors in real time. According to the CBN, these solutions are intended to establish consistency, reliability, and strict compliance throughout the Nigerian financial system. In section 4.1 of the draft, the document outlines mandatory features for AML systems, including risk profiling, screening for politically exposed persons (PEPs), identification and verification protocols, transaction monitoring, and automated regulatory reporting. Regarding the timeline for implementation, the CBN specified that all financial institutions are expected to align their AML solutions with the proposed standards within 12 months following official issuance. Additionally, the CBN will carry out periodic audits and industry assessments to ensure thorough compliance. Institutions must also offer ongoing training programs for their AML teams, with a focus on system operation and evolving risk factors.
The Dangote Refinery has implemented a fresh reduction in the cost of premium motor spirit (PMS), popularly referred to as petrol, lowering the pump price by ₦15 per litre across several regions in Nigeria. In an official announcement made yesterday, the company disclosed that, following this adjustment, petrol prices now stand at ₦875 per litre in Lagos, down from the previous ₦890. In the South West, the revised cost is ₦885 per litre, while in both the North West and North Central regions, the product now sells at ₦895 per litre. For consumers in the South East, South South, and North East, the price has been pegged at ₦905 per litre. This pricing update will be effective through the refinery’s distribution affiliates, which include MRS Oil Nigeria Plc, Ardova Plc (AP), Heyden Petroleum, Optima Energy, Techno Oil, and Hyde Energy. Dangote Refinery has also extended an invitation to other fuel marketers to join its growing network, aligning with the federal government’s “Nigeria First” initiative, which emphasizes the preference for domestically manufactured products and services. Since initiating operations, Dangote Refinery has pursued multiple cost-cutting measures designed to ease the economic burden on Nigerian citizens. Notably, in February 2025, the company executed two separate reductions, totaling ₦125 per litre. This was followed by an additional cut of approximately ₦45 per litre in April 2025, further contributing to consumer relief.
Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has publicly dismissed allegations suggesting he visited Rome to meet President Bola Tinubu regarding an alleged ₦225 billion debt connected to Fidelity Bank. Obi addressed the matter in a statement released on Thursday, labeling the story as part of an ongoing smear campaign orchestrated to tarnish his public image. “Clearly, blackmailing Peter Obi from every negative angle seems to have become a booming business for some,” Obi said. “Even my private spiritual journey to Rome has now been manipulated and weaponized into a fresh round of blackmail by hired agents intent on spinning false narratives.” A recent news publication had claimed that Obi met Tinubu secretly in Rome to request intervention in a supposed financial controversy surrounding Fidelity Bank, a financial institution where Obi once held a position on the board. However, Obi — who previously served as the Governor of Anambra State — strongly denied ever organizing or attending any closed-door discussions with the president concerning the bank. “Since President Tinubu assumed office, I have never sought a meeting with him, nor have I engaged in any private conversation,” he clarified. “The only interaction I’ve had with him was a brief one-minute encounter at the Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome during the inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV. I was seated behind him and extended a courteous greeting, as did other attendees.” Obi further responded to allegations concerning his association with Fidelity Bank, emphasizing that he does not own the institution. “The self-declared ‘blackmailer-in-chief’ and other purveyors of lies have gone on to claim that I own Fidelity Bank. Let it be known — I do not,” Obi declared. “Throughout my professional life, I have served as Chairman or Director for three financial institutions, Fidelity being one of them. The bank is jointly owned by more than 500,000 Nigerians — none of whom possess a majority stake. The goal of this blackmail seems to be to inflict distress on these hard-working citizens.”
Human rights advocate, Hamdiyya Sidi Sharif, who was declared missing earlier in the week, has now been discovered in a critical medical state at Bakura Hospital in Zamfara State. According to a post shared on Facebook by her legal representative, Barrister Abba Hikima, she is now in the custody of security operatives who are closely monitoring her condition. Barrister Hikima stressed that the physical and emotional state in which Hamdiyya was discovered suggests she was abducted, rather than missing voluntarily. Reports indicate that Hamdiyya was last seen when she stepped out to purchase food items within Sokoto town. After that, all attempts to locate her were unsuccessful until the recent discovery in Zamfara. In response to this alarming situation, her lawyer has urged the Zamfara State government and relevant security authorities to prioritize her protection and to launch an in-depth investigation into the incident. This unsettling event unfolds at a time when insecurity remains a major concern across Northwestern Nigeria, with rising cases of abductions and violence.
In light of escalating terrorist activities in Nigeria’s Northeast, both the Senate and Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, have called upon President Bola Tinubu to implement urgent measures to counter the resurgence of Boko Haram insurgents. Governor Zulum Advocates for Military Expertise Over Political Influence During an appearance on News Central’s “Breakfast Central” program, Governor Zulum emphasized the necessity of prioritizing military intelligence over political considerations in the fight against insurgency. He highlighted the detrimental impact of political interference and the presence of informants within the military and political spheres, which compromise counterinsurgency efforts. “The President should heed the counsel of military professionals,” Zulum stated, underscoring the importance of depoliticizing security matters. He further revealed that some politicians and military personnel are allegedly collaborating with insurgents, exacerbating the security challenges. Call for Enhanced Military Intelligence and Equipment Governor Zulum pointed out the technological advancements of insurgents, including the use of drones, which surpass the current capabilities of the Nigerian military. He criticized the existing “contractocracy” and bureaucratic delays in security procurement, suggesting that with focused efforts and proper equipment, the insurgency could be quelled within six months. Despite these challenges, Zulum acknowledged the positive outcomes of non-kinetic strategies, such as deradicalization and reintegration programs, noting that over 99% of surrendered insurgents have successfully reintegrated into society. Senate Recommends Establishment of Military Base in Adamawa In response to the increasing attacks in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe States, the Senate has passed a resolution advocating for the creation of a military base in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State. This motion, sponsored by Senator Aminu Abbas and supported by all North-East senators, aims to bolster the presence of security forces and deter further insurgent activities. The Senate also directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide relief materials to affected communities to alleviate the humanitarian crisis resulting from these attacks. Mixed Reactions from Other Northern States Reactions to Governor Zulum’s assertions have varied among northern state governments. While Zamfara State acknowledged the possibility of insurgents using advanced technology in Borno, it noted that such tactics have not been observed within its jurisdiction. Kebbi State called for verification of Zulum’s claims and emphasized the need to identify and address potential informants within the military and political class. Other states, including Sokoto, Nasarawa, Plateau, Benue, and Kogi, have expressed either neutrality or disagreement with Zulum’s statements, highlighting the importance of collaboration with security agencies and the adoption of technological measures to combat insurgency effectively.
A total of over 1,300 civil servants who were retrenched in Zamfara State have reportedly failed to present themselves before the state’s verification committee, which was recently set up by Governor Dauda Lawal. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the committee recorded appearances from fewer than 800 public servants during the verification process. Governor Lawal initiated the formation of the committee following pressure from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), who raised concerns over alleged wrongful terminations linked to the implementation of the new ₦70,000 minimum wage policy. During a media briefing, the State Head of Service, Yakubu Sani Haidara, acknowledged the low turnout and revealed that the Governor had extended the deadline by ten days, ending on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. Despite the extension, the number of attendees remained unsatisfactory. Haidara emphasized that the civil service operates under strict guidelines, and any affected employees who failed to attend the reverification exercise would be labeled as ghost workers. He also disclosed that 209 civil servants from the State Ministry of Education deserted their workstations without obtaining any official clearance. “When an employee deserts their workplace for several weeks or months without authorization, it implies that they have effectively dismissed themselves,” Haidara said. However, after appeals from key stakeholders, Governor Lawal gave the directive for the 209 absentees to submit formal apology letters for documentation, which led to their reengagement. Despite being reinstated, these individuals will not receive salaries or allowances for the months during which they were absent. Additionally, 51 staff members from the State Ministry of Finance were reported to have abandoned their duties. Out of these, 39 have been reinstated, while 11 are still in the process of pleading for reconsideration. Haidara assured that the current administration has no intention of laying off workers unjustly. Instead, the primary objective is to restructure and enhance the efficiency of the Zamfara State civil service. He concluded by affirming that every government worker must be able to account for their monthly earnings through active service.
Canadian pop icon Justin Bieber recently opened up about a past conflict he had with his wife, Hailey Bieber, involving her aspirations to grace the cover of Vogue Magazine. The globally renowned couple, who now share the spotlight on the cover of the latest Vogue Magazine issue, are celebrating their appearance with heartfelt posts on social media. In a touching Instagram caption, Justin Bieber reflected on a moment of emotional tension during their relationship when he doubted Hailey’s potential to appear in the prestigious fashion publication. Recounting the incident, the singer shared that during a particularly intense argument, he told Hailey she would never be featured on Vogue Magazine’s cover. However, now faced with the reality of their joint Vogue appearance, Justin humbly acknowledged his mistake. In his post, he stated: “This reminds me when [we] got into a huge fight, I told [her] that she would never be on the cover of Vogue. Yikes, I know. […] Baby u already know but forgive me for saying u wouldn’t cuz clearly I was sadly mistaken.” This candid confession offers a glimpse into the personal growth and deeper understanding between the couple. It also underscores the importance of support, humility, and reflection in relationships, especially under the pressures of global fame.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria, has emphasized the importance of leveraging the nation’s ethnic and cultural diversity as a unifying force for collective growth and national development. Speaking on World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development 2025, Mrs. Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s multicultural landscape, which includes more than 250 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own language. She believes this cultural mosaic should serve as a catalyst for mutual respect, meaningful dialogue, and national unity. In her statement commemorating the global observance, the First Lady underscored that the day reflects the inherent strength within diversity and the universal values that bind humanity together. “There is strength and unity in our diversity. Nigeria, for instance, boasts over 250 ethnic groups, each speaking a unique language. However, it is through genuine dialogue, respectful interactions, and shared understanding that our national identity is truly forged,” she remarked. Mrs. Tinubu called on all Nigerians to reflect on the significance of cultural dialogue and inclusivity. “I urge every Nigerian to celebrate our rich cultural heritage, to listen with compassion, and to lead with empathy. Together, by embracing our differences, we can build a brighter and more united future for Nigeria and the global community,” she added.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.

