APC Defends President Tinubu’s UK Visit as Catalyst for Economic Growth

By: Manoah Kikekon 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in UK

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has thrown its weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s current visit to the United Kingdom, describing the trip as a strategic masterstroke for Nigeria’s economic diplomacy. According to the party, the engagement is designed to foster high-level international partnerships and attract the foreign direct investment necessary to drive the administration's "Renewed Hope" agenda.

In a statement released on Wednesday in Lagos, the party’s state spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, emphasized that the visit serves as a critical platform for discussions with global investors and development partners. The talks are expected to span vital sectors, including infrastructure development, energy transition, and technology transfer, all aimed at modernizing the Nigerian economy and creating sustainable jobs for the youth.

A significant portion of the diplomatic agenda focuses on enhancing Nigeria’s trade efficiency. Oladejo highlighted that the visit aligns with goals to modernize port infrastructure, which is essential for positioning Nigeria as the preeminent maritime hub in West Africa. 

By engaging with the UK a longstanding economic ally the administration hopes to: Expand market access for Nigerian businesses in global arenas. Strengthen bilateral trade relations through formal agreements. Boost Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into critical local projects.

Addressing critics, the APC spokesperson pointed to President Tinubu’s history as the former Governor of Lagos State. He argued that the President has a proven track record of leveraging international partnerships to stimulate local development. 

The party maintains that in an increasingly globalized economy, constructive engagement with key partners like the United Kingdom is not a luxury but a necessity for national prosperity.

“Purposeful global engagement remains vital to achieving long-term national prosperity. This visit underscores Nigeria’s commitment to deepening international partnerships and advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Oladejo stated.

Beyond economics, the APC noted that the UK visit encompasses broader bilateral interests. Discussions are slated to cover security collaboration and education, areas where Nigeria and the United Kingdom have shared historical ties. 

The party urged Nigerians to view the trip through the lens of nation-building, expressing confidence that the outcomes will significantly enhance Nigeria’s standing on the global stage.

ISWAP Death Toll Climbs to 75 Following Crushing Defeat in Malam Fatori

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

MAIDUGURI, Nigeria — The number of Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists neutralized during a botched infiltration attempt in Malam Fatori has risen to 75. Security analysts are describing the encounter in the Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State as one of the most significant tactical victories against the insurgent group in recent months.

Initially, reports from the frontline suggested that 61 insurgents had been killed. However, following extensive mop-up operations and updated battlefield assessments by the Nigerian military, the death toll was revised upward. Several other terrorists are believed to have fled into the surrounding marshlands with life-threatening injuries.

The confrontation began in the early hours of Wednesday when ISWAP fighters launched a multi-pronged assault from the Duguri axis. Moving toward the Bravo Company frontage of the 68 Battalion, the insurgents reportedly attempted a sophisticated breach by deploying armed drones to overhead troop positions.

Despite the attempt to use technology to gain an advantage, the movement was swiftly detected by vigilant soldiers. The ground troops maintained their defensive lines, forcing the attackers into a kill zone where they were met with overwhelming firepower.

Military insiders credit the decisive win to the "superior coordination" between ground forces and the Nigerian Air Force (NAF). As the infiltration attempt was identified, air assets under Operation Hadin Kai were deployed to intercept the retreating fighters, preventing them from regrouping or recovering their dead.

This successful repelling of the Malam Fatori attack highlights an evolving trend in the North-East counter-insurgency: Enhanced Intelligence: Early detection of foot movements and drone launches. Air-Ground Integration: Real-time communication between 68 Battalion and NAF pilots. Aggressive Mop-up: Thorough post-battle searches to confirm neutralized threats and recover abandoned weaponry.

Malam Fatori, located near the volatile Lake Chad fringes, has long been a strategic flashpoint. Security experts suggest that the loss of 75 fighters in a single engagement serves as a massive blow to ISWAP’s operational capacity and morale in the region.

As of Thursday morning, Nigerian troops remain on high alert in Abadam LGA to preempt any retaliatory attempts. The military has reassured residents that the border town remains under firm control, with patrols intensified along the Duguri axis to flush out remnants of the fleeing terror cell.

Ghana to Launch First Fully Biometric SIM Registration to Combat MoMo Fraud

 By: Manoah Kikekon

SIM card and Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, Samuel Nartey George

In a decisive move to fortify the nation’s digital landscape, the Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, Samuel Nartey George, has announced that Ghana will soon undergo its first-ever fully biometric SIM registration exercise. The initiative is specifically designed to eliminate the loopholes used by cybercriminals and significantly raise the stakes for those engaging in Mobile Money (MoMo) fraud.

Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, the Minister emphasized that this is not a mere "re-registration" but a comprehensive "final registration" aimed at cleaning up the nation's telecommunications data.

One of the primary objectives of this new system is to make fraudulent activities "prohibitive." Minister Samuel Nartey George explained that by linking SIM cards directly to the National Identification Authority (NIA) database with high-level biometric triggers, the consequences for criminals will extend far beyond a simple network block.

“When his Ghana Card is blocked, he loses access to every government service. So the cost to MoMo fraud is being raised to the level that it will be prohibitive,” the Minister stated.

By integrating SIM data with essential public services, the government aims to create a deterrent where the loss of digital identity outweighs any potential gain from fraudulent activities.

The Minister was candid about the shortcomings of the previous registration cycle held between 2021 and 2023. He noted that the lack of real-time biometric verification during that period allowed flaws to persist within the system.

To ensure the integrity of the new database, the upcoming exercise will feature: Advanced Biometric Verification: Ensuring the person registering the SIM is the true owner of the Ghana Card. Liveliness Checks: Real-time facial or fingerprint matching against the NIA database to prevent identity theft. One-Time Passwords (OTPs): Multi-factor authentication for added security layers. eSIM Integration: Modernizing the registration process to include embedded SIM technology.

The Ministry clarified that migrating existing, flawed data into a new system would only transfer old problems. Therefore, this fresh start is essential for a "cleansing" of the national register. 

“Migrating into a new system without proper cleansing doesn’t solve the problem; it simply transfers the flaws,” Mr. George noted, reiterating that the goal is to create a definitive, secure system that will not require further overhauls in the future.

This biometric rollout underscores a broader commitment to national security. By ensuring that every active SIM card in Ghana is tied to a verified human identity, the Ministry of Communication and Digitalisation hopes to:

1.  Protect Public Funds: Securing the MoMo ecosystem which millions of Ghanaians rely on daily.

2.  Ensure Data Integrity: Providing a reliable database for law enforcement and government planning.

3.  Modernize Telecoms: Streamlining the adoption of 5G and eSIM technologies under a secure framework.

ADC Slams Federal Government Over Maiduguri Bombings, Decries Insecurity

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a scathing condemnation of the coordinated bomb blasts that rocked Maiduguri, Borno State, on Monday evening. The attacks, which resulted in the tragic death of at least 23 people and left over 100 others injured, have sparked renewed concerns over the stability of the North-East region and the efficacy of Nigeria’s current security architecture.

In a formal statement released on Tuesday by the National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the incident as a national tragedy. The ADC emphasized that terrorism in any part of the country constitutes an assault on all Nigerians, expressing deep sympathy for the victims and families in a city that has historically borne the brunt of insurgency.

A central theme of the ADC’s critique was the perceived "leadership vacuum" during this crisis. The party expressed disappointment that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is currently in the United Kingdom while the nation mourns. 

“Moments like this demand the full and undivided attention of the nation's leadership. It is therefore troubling that the President is currently outside the country at a time when such a serious security breach has occurred,” the statement read.

The party further alleged that the President has remained silent regarding the victims and the soldiers who lost their lives, choosing instead to focus on international engagements while "Nigerians mourn and soldiers are being buried."

The ADC did not hold back in its assessment of top security officials, accusing them of prioritizing political maneuvers over national safety. The statement highlighted several grievances: The National Security Adviser: Accused of targeting opposition figures and using conciliatory language toward bandits. The Minister of Defence: Criticized for appearing on television to discuss the APC national convention instead of focusing on counter-insurgency. Institutional Distraction: The party argued that these "dangerous distractions" are actively costing Nigerian lives.

According to reports from the Borno State Police Command, confirmed by ASP Nahum Daso, the coordinated attacks hit three separate locations across the city. The current casualty toll stands at: Confirmed Deaths 23, Injured Persons 108, Locations Hit 3.

While the ADC commended the bravery of first responders and security personnel on the ground, they warned that Maiduguri must not be allowed to slide back into an era of routine coordinated bombings.

The ADC concluded its statement by demanding an immediate and transparent security review of the North-East situation. They urged the Federal Government to provide a clear briefing to the public on the status of counter-insurgency operations and ensured that victims receive the necessary medical care and compensation.

US Tourists in Lagos: How Cultural Exchange is Rebranding Nigeria’s Global Image

By: Manoah Kikekon 

A prominent group of American tourists and members of the African diaspora recently concluded a transformative cultural immersion in Lagos, Nigeria. The visitors, who explored the city’s vibrant traditions, heritage sites, and culinary landscape, expressed that their firsthand experiences will play a pivotal role in reshaping the often-negative global perception of Nigeria.

The tour, facilitated by the Goge Africa Travel Club, culminated in a grand dinner hosted on Monday. Supported by Idris Aregbe, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, the event celebrated the bridge being built between Nigeria and its diaspora.

Over a two-day itinerary, the 19-member group comprising various nationalities residing in the United States delved into the heart of Lagos. Their journey included visits to: Local Markets: Experiencing the pulse of Nigerian commerce. Museums and Heritage Sites: Documenting the historical depth of the region. Traditional Engagements: Participating in naming ceremonies and cultural rites.

Isaac Moses, CEO of Goge Africa, highlighted that these trips are essential for countering "skepticism" and foreign narratives. He noted that while visitors often arrive with "fingers crossed" due to negative media, the reality of Nigerian hospitality usually exceeds their expectations.

A key objective of the visit was to showcase the indigenous identity of Lagos. Idris Aregbe addressed the common misconception that Lagos lacks a distinct native culture.

"People think that Lagos is no man’s land... but Lagos has a rich, documented culture spanning from Badagry to the mainland," Aregbe stated. 

He emphasized that cultural tourism is not just a branding tool but a significant economic driver. International visitors bring foreign exchange that directly impacts local hotels, transportation services, and the culinary industry, boosting the state's overall economic turnover.

While the experience was largely positive, the tourists and organizers were candid about the challenges facing Nigeria's tourism infrastructure. 

Key areas for growth identified during the tour included: Transportation: Visitors noted that standard rental buses were often cramped and uncomfortable for long-haul tourism. Specialized Vehicles: There is an urgent call for investors to provide "tour buses" similar to those found in major African hubs like Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt. Culinary Adaptation: Some visitors found the traditional spice levels ("heat") of Nigerian cuisine challenging, suggesting a need for more diverse palate options in tourist settings.

For many, the trip was more than a vacation it was a spiritual return. Karen Morris-Clarke, founder of Bella World of Travel and the group’s leader, shared her personal journey of discovery. After a DNA test revealed Nigerian ancestry, the Jamaican-born, U.S.-based traveler felt a profound need to "come home."

Despite the "stigma" often associated with Nigeria abroad, Morris-Clarke praised the safety and warmth she encountered. "I’m happy I came. I experienced it for myself," she remarked, echoing the sentiment that personal experience is the most effective cure for prejudice.

Food remains one of Nigeria’s most potent cultural exports. Chef Gbolabo Adebakin (Chef Gibbs), convener of the Nigeria Food Summit, argued that culinary tourism is the "oldest form of tourism." 

FGM Persistence in Nigeria: Wellspring Outreach Raises Alarm Over Continued Practice

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Despite strict legal prohibitions, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a significant health and human rights concern in various parts of Nigeria. The Wellspring Outreach and Support Foundation recently voiced its alarm, noting that the harmful tradition persists in several communities, including Oyo State, fueled by entrenched cultural myths and misinformation.

Speaking in Ibadan during a month-long social media advocacy campaign, Adelayo Ojo-Nkom, a director at the foundation, highlighted the brutal reality of the practice. FGM takes various forms ranging from the partial or total removal of the clitoris to the severe stitching of the vaginal opening. 

The consequences are often lifelong. Mrs. Ojo-Nkom emphasized that survivors frequently face: Obstetric Complications: Increased risk of painful and dangerous childbirth.

Physical Trauma: Chronic pain and sexual dysfunction. Mental Health Struggles: Long-term psychological disorders, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Marital Strain: The practice often strips women of the ability to experience intimacy, turning marriage into a source of trauma rather than joy.

One of the primary drivers of FGM in Nigeria is the false belief that it controls a woman’s libido or prevents promiscuity. Mrs. Ojo-Nkom was firm in debunking these claims, stating they have no medical or moral basis. She noted that societal moral decline is entirely unrelated to whether a girl has undergone the procedure.

A troubling finding from the foundation’s advocacy is that even some young women continue to support the practice. Having been socialized to view it as a cultural "norm," they perpetuate the cycle, indicating that changing deep-seated social attitudes remains a formidable challenge for the country.

Nigeria’s Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act of 2015 explicitly criminalizes FGM. Under this law, anyone who performs, aids, or abets the procedure faces stiff penalties, including heavy fines and imprisonment. 

"FGM is a criminal offense... anyone who performs, aids, or abets the act risks fines or imprisonment," Mrs. Ojo-Nkom warned.

2027: Why Sesi and Bonu Continuity is the Key to Badagry’s Developmental Future

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS STATE – Hon. Apata Samson Nunayon, a prominent stakeholder and concerned indigene, has issued a strategic "Call to the Good People of Badagry," advocating for the re-election of two key legislative figures: Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan and Hon. Solomon Bonu.

Central to this advocacy is the launch of the Bonu–Sesi Again Movement 2027 (BSAM 2027), a grassroots initiative designed to challenge the long-standing "single-term mindset" that Apata argues has historically hampered the region's progress.

For decades, Badagry has often cycled through representatives every four years, regardless of their performance. According to Hon. Apata, this pattern creates a "newcomer syndrome" where Badagry’s voice in the chambers both at the Federal House of Representatives and the State House of Assembly is constantly reset to zero.

Legislative efficacy is built on seniority, committee influence, and established networks within ministries. When a representative is replaced after only one term, the constituency loses the momentum and the political capital that the incumbent spent years cultivating. BSAM 2027 posits that for Badagry to transition from a "land of potential" to a "land of prosperity," it must embrace leadership stability.

Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan (Federal), Representing the Badagry Federal Constituency in Abuja, Whingan has gained recognition for his focus on human capital. His initiatives in digital literacy and youth entrepreneurship are viewed as essential for integrating Badagry’s youth into the modern global economy.

Hon. Solomon Bonu (State), At the Lagos State House of Assembly, Bonu has leveraged his background in governance and tourism to advocate for the preservation of Badagry’s heritage while pushing for infrastructural expansion.

Together, Apata argues, these two leaders provide a balanced approach to development that covers both national policy and local grassroots needs.

Badagry stands at a crossroads of immense economic opportunity. From its status as a gateway for cross-border trade to its untapped maritime and cultural tourism potential, the region requires "marathon leadership" rather than a "sprint."

The Bonu–Sesi Again Movement asserts that a second term will allow these representatives to:

1. Complete ongoing projects that often stall during leadership transitions.

2. Strengthen legislative influence to attract larger federal and state budgetary allocations.

3. Solidify partnerships with private investors interested in the Badagry tourism and tech sectors.

"A second term is therefore not merely a political reward; it is a strategic investment in the future of Badagry," Apata stated during his address.

The movement is calling on youth organizations, traditional institutions, and professional stakeholders to look beyond short-term sentiments. The goal of BSAM 2027 is to foster a political culture where performance is the primary metric for continuity.