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FG economic reforms yielding good results —Edun

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Nigeria’s inflation rate in June 2024 surged from 33.95% in May 2024 to 34.19% in June according to the latest report from the

Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, yesterday said that the economic reforms embarked upon by the present administration are yielding positive results as the country recorded a net inflow of $16.45 billion into its foreign reserve in the first seven months of the year.

The Minister disclosed this at the 2024 edition of the Access Bank Annual Corporate Forum themed: “Nigeria’s Economic Rebirth: Hopes and Implications”, in Lagos, saying that the federal government plans to fund 360,000 farmers as part of efforts to curtail the ravaging food inflation while giving the economy a rebirth.

Edun, among other things, stated: “Seventeen months or so, we rethink the reforms from the evidence, from the data, from the details that we have in our hands , the reforms are yielding fruits.

“The economy is beginning to turn a corner and I think we all are witnesses to the improved macroeconomic stability, stable exchange rates, increasing government revenue, positive and increasing trade balances, current account balances and the total reconfiguration and the revamping of government revenues as well as the greater emphasis on expenditure.

“We have relative currency stability, and of course, the all important margin of the rates. We’ve seen a gradual elimination of multiple exchange rates.

“We also have foreign exchange liquidity. The gross reserves are up. There has been a net inflow in the first seven months of this year of about $2.35 billion every month.

“On the fiscal side as well, government revenues are growing. And the key to government revenue is not so much that the government has revenue to compete with the private sector. It is the fundamentals, the social and the key infrastructure spending, the social safety net spending.

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“And, historically, our figures are low. Our tax to GDP ratio is as low as 10 percent. Our revenue to GDP is also around 15 percent.”

Highlighting the various steps the government is taking to rebirth the country’s economy, he said that the government is working to ramp up crude oil production as a buffer for the fiscal revenues, adding that the country is on track to produce the targeted 2 million crude oil barrels per day (bpd) before the end of 2024.

On food security, Edun noted that the FG plans to fund 360,000 farmers with resources to cultivate on 360,000 hectares of land by January 2025.

“Apart from quickly ramping up oil production, one of the key areas is that in the agricultural sector, not just for raw output, but for putting us on the path to industrialisation, just as the way as put in as a step taken to have local refining of petroleum products what’s come back after so many decades is an important step in the road to industrialization in agriculture.

“The plan and the key target is for this dry season after a very successful dry season harvest earlier this year, there was disappointment in the wet season harvest and that’s the reason we have not completed and the result is a continued elevated level of food prices.

“So the plan this time around, and we must be determined in its succeeding, 360,000 farmers will be funded, assisted, mobilized and resourced to farm 360,000 hectares and from that we are estimating 1.4 million metric tons by next January, February when the harvest comes of maize, wheat, cassava and tubers.

“And that is a key success factor, a key indicator that we must hit as a target. And everybody has a role to play in producing food.”

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On his part, Chief Executive Officer, Financial Derivative Company, Bismack Rewane, projected among other things, the country to move from the third position to the second largest economy in Sub-saharan Africa by 2026 at $400 billion from its present $368 billion.

He added: “Electricity tariff in our government will remain above $200 billion in bands A and B. Telecom tariffs will increase significantly to maintain that investment.

“There will be an efficient forex option system by 2026 and air-combact reserves will be at $20 billion.

“Inflation will continue to decline to anywhere between 19 percent and 22 percent and MPR, I think, will decline to 20 percent rather. I’m talking about June 2026.

“The Naira will appreciate from its current levels to anywhere between $1,450 and $1,500 at that time.

“‘Exchange rate will be aligned on the proper Forex system that is functioning in place due to one, integration funds, direct foreign investments and exchange rate adjustments. The trade balance will go up from $8 billion to $9 billion.

“The price of petrol will be stippled and this is at N900 per liter, the quality will be higher”.

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Also speaking, Uche uwaleke, Professor of Finance and Capital Market at Nasarawa State University, said that deepening the capital requires raising the right mix of instruments.

He averred that the federal government has not been deploying the right instrument in its borrowings from the domestic capital market, saying more infrastructure bonds should be issued .

He also made a case for crypto assets adoption, arguing that youths who comprise over 70 percent of the population would find crypto assets more attractive and acceptable and hence would propel their participation in the capital market.

In his welcome remarks, Mr Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director/CEO, Access Bank, said: “This is the kind of forum that we have been having since this current administration came into service in May 2023. I think in many respects it signifies the challenges that we are having as a nation and the need for us to combat the rising economic headwinds that we are facing. At least Nigeria is not isolated in this term. Many emerging markets and local markets are facing significant challenges”.

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Naira Crushes Dollar Again As New Rate Emerges

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'Naira appreciation may force food, other price reduction'

Excitement has erupted among many Nigerians as President Tinubu’s economic policies begin to deliver promising results.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has implemented stricter controls while maintaining a lower exchange rate at official windows.

However, the limited access and stringent allocation restrictions have compelled numerous importers, businesses, and students seeking to study abroad to resort to the parallel market.

Data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) showed that the naira rose to N1,506.08 to a dollar on Wednesday at the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM). The last time it was that strong was on the 5th of March, 2025, when it closed at N1,500.80/$.

The naira has continued to enjoy rare stability, driven by the various policies of the apex Bank, including maintaining a high interest rate, a move that has lured in foreign capital and made the currency firmer.

Nigeria’s naira has witnessed some turbulence years after the authorities relaxed currency controls, effectively floating the currency to be more determined by market forces. That saw the unit fall by over 70 percent and disrupted business plans of many firms in Africa’s most populous nation.

Read also: Naira records another six-month high of N1,506.84 as FX supply stabilises

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But those eras of sharp swings are phasing out as the local currency is expected to continue its rally until the end of the year, with global investment bank JP Morgan forecasting the naira to close 2025 at N1,450 per dollar.

A potential rate cut by the United States Federal Reserve also bodes well for the naira’s long-term stability as global capital finds its way into emerging markets like Nigeria, further bolstering the calmness of the currency.

“A lower US interest rate would diminish the relative attractiveness of US assets, prompting global investors to seek higher returns in emerging markets like Nigeria. Consequently, Nigeria will likely experience increased portfolio inflows, particularly into the fixed-income market,” analysts at FBNQuest Merchant Bank wrote in a note recently.

“Renewed interest by offshore investors could potentially bolster foreign exchange reserves and support the stability of the Naira.”

FX reserves seen rising further on likely US rate cut

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National Grid Collapses Again, Breakdown of 11 Affected States Emerges

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Ikeja electric blames load restrictions of transmission centers for power outage

The Nigeria’s national grid has again collapsed with the total of 50 Mega Watts drop, according to the report that emerged after the incident.

A breakdown of the affected states indicted that the collapse, which happened around 12:25 pm on Wednesday, September 10, affected 11 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). ...click link for full list here

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Below is the states and the affected areas according to The Cable:

1. Abuja DisCo: 20 MW

2. Benin DisCo: 10 MW

3. Eko DisCo: 0 MW

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4. Enugu DisCo: 0 MW

5. Ibadan DisCo: 20 MW

6. Ikeja DisCo: 0 MW

7. Jos DisCo: 0 MW

8. Kaduna DisCo: 0 MW

9. Kano DisCo: 0 MW

10. PHarcourt DisCo: 0 MW

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11. Yola DisCo: 0 MW

Total: 50 MW

EXPOSED: Jonathan/Bala Mohammed campaign posters flood internet ahead 2027

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Oborevwori hails role of South-South in Nigeria project, seeks stronger FG partnership

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Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has commended the South-South states for their immense contributions to Nigeria’s growth and stability, describing the region as a critical pillar of the nation’s economic and social development.

Speaking on Sunday at the 2025 Passover Conference and dedication of the children of Apostle Charles Osazuwa, Founder of Rock of Ages Christian Assembly International, in Benin City, Edo State, the Governor stressed that the South-South remained central to Nigeria’s prosperity, given its oil and gas wealth, agricultural resources, and human capital.

Oborevwori maintained that a stronger collaboration with the Federal Government was essential to closing the development gaps and ensure that the region fully benefits from its natural endowments.

He also underscored the need for unity among South-South states in engaging the Federal Government on key issues of infrastructure, environmental protection, and economic diversification.

“A united South-South voice will not only fast-track development but also strengthen security and promote inclusive growth across our region,” the Governor said.

On the occasion, which he described as both spiritual and instructive, Oborevwori emphasized the value of thanksgiving and faith.

“Whenever God does something, it is only right that we appreciate Him. Today, we have not only witnessed the dedication, but we have also received a powerful message, one that has truly blessed us. I took notes myself because there was so much to take home,” he added.

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The Governor highlighted the cultural, spiritual, and historical bond between Delta, Edo, and Bayelsa states, describing them as “one people with the same roots and destiny.”

He noted that the unity of the three states was reflected in their collective achievements, citing their strong outings at recent national sporting events as evidence of shared progress.

“At the National Youth Games, Delta came second and Edo came third. In Ogun State, Delta took first while Bayelsa came second. Whenever one of us shines, we all shine. That is the strength of our brotherhood,” he remarked.

Oborevwori also commended Apostle Osazuwa and his ministry for their integrity and commitment to the gospel, praying that the church would continue to grow in strength and impact.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, assured that his administration remained committed to promoting Christianity through good governance.

Similarly, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, represented by his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, congratulated Apostle Osazuwa on the dedication of his triplets, describing him as a genuine man of God who preaches with ease and conviction.

In his remarks, Apostle Osazuwa urged Governors Monday Okpebholo and Sheriff Oborevwori to leverage their offices to press the Federal Government for the urgent rehabilitation of the dilapidated Benin–Sapele Road, lamenting the severe hardships it continues to inflict on motorists.

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Earlier, in a sermon titled “Understanding the Power of Effective Prayer,” Apostle Osazuwa stressed the potency of prayer as a vital tool for believers to effect change, overcome afflictions, and engage in spiritual warfare.

He described prayer as a two-way communication between man and God, noting its mystery and transformative power.

The event attracted dignitaries, including immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; the Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu; Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu; alongside worshippers and well-wishers who joined the Osazuwa family in thanksgiving.

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$325,000 fraud: EFCC declares Sujimoto boss, Olasijibomi Ogundele wanted

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared Olasijibomi Suji Ogundele, founder of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, wanted for allegedly diverting funds and engaging in money laundering.

The declaration was contained in a notice issued by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, and circulated to the public via its official X account.

According to the Commission, Ogundele is wanted in connection with an alleged case of diversion of funds and money laundering being investigated by its Lagos Command

“The public is hereby notified that OLASIJIBOMI SUJI OGUNDELE of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, whose photograph appears above, is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in an alleged case of Diversion of Funds and Money Laundering,” the commission stated.

Public appeal for information
The EFCC urged members of the public with useful information on his whereabouts to contact its offices across the country.

The notice described him as a 44-year-old indigene of Ori-Ade Local Government Area of Osun State. His last known address was listed as G29, Banana Island, Ikoyi, Lagos State.

“Anybody with useful information as to his whereabouts should please contact the Commission in its Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Lagos, Gombe, Port Harcourt or Abuja offices or through 08093322644; its e-mail address: info@efcc.gov.ng or the nearest Police Station and other security agencies,” the notice read.

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The controversies surrounding Olasijibomi Suji Ogundele, the founder of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, did not just begin.

In October 2024, he was under police investigation following allegations of a $325,000 real estate fraud. According to reports, a client had paid the sum for a three-bedroom apartment in the Leonardo project in Banana Island, Lagos, but neither received the property nor a refund.

The Police Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) invited Ogundele for questioning, but he initially failed to respond, opting instead to file a fundamental rights suit to restrain the investigation.
He later appeared at the FCID headquarters in Abuja after further pressure from investigators and was interrogated before being released on bail.

Following his release, Ogundele issued a response, denying any fraudulent activity. He explained that the delays in delivering the project were caused by external economic factors, specifically inflation, rising construction material costs, and the volatility of foreign exchange.

He stated that he had arrived at the FCID with a trove of evidence, including title documents of the Leonardo project, approvals from Lagos State, and other paperwork, which he claimed demonstrated transparency and a genuine commitment to fulfilling obligations to clients.

 

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FG to borrow fresh $1.75bn from World Bank, reasons emerge

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FG to borrow fresh $1.75bn from World Bank, reasons emerge

The Federal Government of Nigeria is in the process of obtaining new financing from the World Bank amounting to $1.75 billion, despite recent announcements of a significant increase in national revenues.

President Bola Tinubu stated on Tuesday that Nigeria has already exceeded its revenue targets for 2025.

In a follow-up clarification, the Presidency revealed that Nigeria collected N20.59 trillion between January and August 2025, reflecting a 40.5% increase compared to the N14.6 trillion accrued in the same period the previous year.

According to Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, this revenue surge has been largely driven by non-oil sources, which now represent 75% of the government’s total revenue.

Nevertheless, officials indicated that borrowing would persist to address funding gaps in essential sectors.

Documentation from the World Bank suggests that approval for the $1.75 billion in new loans for Nigeria is anticipated before the end of the year. These funds will be allocated to projects in agriculture, health, digital infrastructure, and financing for small businesses.

Key initiatives earmarked for support include a $500 million project aimed at enhancing agricultural value chains to improve farm productivity and promote rural development.

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Additionally, there is a $500 million digital infrastructure program intended to expand connectivity and foster technology-led growth, a $250 million health security project, and a $500 million initiative focused on providing inclusive financing for micro, small, and medium enterprises.

The loans are currently undergoing various stages of review and negotiation, indicating that Nigeria continues to rely on external borrowing to meet its financial needs. According to World Bank data, the country has secured a total of $8.4 billion in new credit lines over the past two years.

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Tinubu replies critics, lists projects in each region (Full List)

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UNTOLD STORY: Why FG workers can't access housing loan, details emerge

President Bola Tinubu has asserted that the policies and initiatives of his administration are fundamentally anchored in the solemn oath of office he took, which obligates him to serve the interests of all Nigerians.

In a statement shared on his X handle on Monday, he emphasized that this oath serves as a guiding principle for the various infrastructural projects his government is undertaking, including the construction of bridges, roads, railways, and advancements in the power and healthcare sectors.

His remarks came in response to mounting criticisms regarding perceived imbalances in the distribution of projects and allegations of regional neglect.

Tinubu contended that his administration is committed to implementing policies and delivering projects that are intended to benefit all citizens, irrespective of their region, religion, or ethnic background.

“I took an oath to serve all Nigerians, not a section. That oath guides every bridge, road, rail, power, and health project we deliver,” the post reads.

“From the Lagos–Calabar Highway in the South to the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway in the North; from Port Harcourt–Maiduguri rail in the East to Abuja–Kaduna–Kano expressway in the Centre, and the Trans-Saharan highway connecting African countries, these are not local trophies. They are our national assets.”

Tinubu said health centres are being rehabilitated nationwide, and light rail projects in Kano, Kaduna, Lagos, and Ogun have been given the green light.

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“250,000 jobs are being created, power is returning to Kaduna through the revived 255MW power plant, bridges in Onitsha and Bonny reconnect our people, oil exploration is expanding in Bauchi and Gombe, and the AKK pipeline has crossed the Niger,” he said.

“Every farmer who needs a road, every trader who needs power, every child who needs a school, every patient who needs care… this is who we are building for.”

The president noted that the “equity of renewed hope” ensures no Nigerian is second class and no region is left behind.

“Together we will rise as one nation, one people, and one destiny. Bet on Nigeria,” he added.

 

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