FEATURES
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is ramping up preparations to introduce its single currency, ECO, following a consensus reached during its 65th Ordinary Session.
This announcement was made in a communiqué released after the 66th ordinary session of the heads of state and government meeting, which was held in Abuja on Sunday.
Initially scheduled for launch in 2020, the rollout of the ECO was postponed due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The new target date for its introduction is now set for 2027.
The Authority confirmed that it has adopted selection criteria proposed by the High-Level Committee to identify member states that will initially adopt the ECO and those that may join later. In collaboration with the West African Monetary Agency (WAMA), it has tasked the Commission to integrate these criteria into the protocol for establishing the ECOWAS Monetary Union Agreement.
Additionally, the Authority endorsed the High-Level Committee’s recommendations regarding the financial aspects—costs, funding sources, and modalities—necessary for implementing the reforms and institutions required for the ECO’s launch.
Member states and central banks have been urged to take immediate action to fulfil their financial commitments to operationalise these institutions once the official launch date for the ECOWAS single currency is confirmed.
The heads of State also called on the High-Level Committee and the ECOWAS Commission to accelerate efforts to meet the established deadlines for creating and operationalising the institutions essential for the ECO’s launch.
Moreover, the Authority acknowledged the progress in executing the ECOWAS Agricultural Policy (ECOWAP) as part of efforts to enhance food security and nutrition in the region. Recognising the vital role of agriculture in the socio-economic development of member states, the Authority directed the Commission to implement regional strategies promptly focused on livestock farming, the Regional Rice Self-sufficiency Initiative, and the Comprehensive African Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) Action Plan for 2026-2035.
The Authority also welcomed the strengthening of partnerships with technical and financial stakeholders and urged member states to collaborate with community institutions to achieve these regional food security initiatives.
The introduction of the ECOWAS currency is expected to facilitate trade and stimulate economic growth within the region.
[Leadership]
The Joint Tax Board (JTB) has called for the taxation of High Net-Worth Individuals (HNWI) as part of drive to bridge unfair tax practices in the country.
The board made the call in a communique signed by M.L. Abubakar , Chairman, JTB and Olusegun Adesokan, Secretary, JTB at the end of of its 156th meeting held on 10th and 11th December 2024 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Part of the communique read: “The Joint Tax Board notes that taxation of high net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in Nigeria has increasingly come under focus given the perceived unfairness in the distribution of the tax burden among this category of taxpayers in relation to other taxpayers.
“Therefore the Joint Tax Board recognises the need for improved intelligence gathering to Identify, track, and profile (HNWIs) in Nigeria and encourages regular review and evaluation of the effectiveness of adopted strategies and initiatives, and support needful adjustments where and when necessary, to ensure taxation of HNWIs in Nigeria,”
The communique also called for broad based collaboration with relevant national and sub-national agencies to strengthen the data collection and analytics capabilities of sub-national revenue authorities and foster international cooperation to improve tax compliance and curtall cross-border tax evasion to ensure that HNWIs are taxed fairly and transparently.
The board also noted the urgent need to accurately classify Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) disbursements, stamp duties, withholding taxes and other revenue items as tax, adding that “Such items should be credited to the internally generated revenue (IGR) accounts of the respective sub-nationals, rather than to the respective Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) accounts, for purposes of assuring accuracy in reporting, and appropriate accounting,”
The JTB also advocated public enlightenment and sensitisation prior to any introduction of new rates for driver’s licence and vehicle number plates to afford members of the public the opportunity to be well informed in advance while educating them on the rationale behind the decision.
[DailyTrust]
Nollywood star, Daniel Etim Effiong’s wife, Toyosi Effiong, has revealed that she doesn’t have 100 per cent trust in her husband after several years of marriage.
She hosted the actor in the latest episode of her ‘The Toyosi’ podcast and the movie star asked if she has 100 per cent trust in him.
Responding, she said she trusts her husband to a large extent but not completely.
Etim Effiong: “Do you trust me 100 per cent after seven years of marriage?”
Toyosi: “Do I trust you a hundred per cent? No, but I trust that you will always keep me in the loop [laughs].
“Maybe not keep me in the loop. I’ve spent these years with you, I know you to a large extent and I’m getting to know you better.
“I think that you will do your absolute best to honour your vows and honour what we have. But I’m also aware that, I don’t want to say anything can happen, but things happen more or less.
“And I feel like if anything ever happens, I would know.”
[DailyPost]
When Funke Akindele conceived the fictitious character Jenifa in 2006, little did she know that she had created one character that will outlive all the characters she has ever played in her almost three decades of acting.
Though the 47-year-old thespian, who hails from Ikorodu, Lagos State, has gone ahead to create other characters and released other productions but none has stood out like Jenifa, a native village girl, who was born Suliat but adopted the name Jenifa (Jennifer) to desperately get a new lease of life at any cost after which luck smiled on her and she navigates her own world.
Without doubts, Jenifa was an instant success that got its own life immediately after the release of the first franchise in 2008. Like many popular franchises, Akindele released the second instalment, ‘Return of Jenifa,’ in 2010 and this was not only an instant success but cemented Akindele’s status on the Nigerian film and music scene.
Unknown to many, the Return of Jenifa heralded Akindele’s romance with the world of cinema to which she has since not looked.
Akindele was smart enough to allow Jenifa to breathe her own life as brand endorsements rolled in while she focused on creating other characters and films for a mixed audience across the globe.
It is no news that between 2008 and 2024, Akindele’s luck changed for the better with the production of Jenifa, which starred her as the lead actress. The character portrayed by Akindele gained fame and earned several award nominations including but not limited to four nominations at the Africa Movie Academy Awards in 2008. Akindele was not oblivious of the fact that Jenifa was responsible for her increased fan base which grew immeasurably.
Following the massive success of the film, which grossed N35m at that time, Akindele understood she has created a character that will crest her name on the sands of time. She went on to thrive on the Nollywood scene with spin-off series – Jenifa’s Diary, Aiyetoro, and Jenifa on Lockdown – while leveraging the new media and network TV stations to push the Jenifa brand.
Unknown to many, while Jenifa’s Diary was being watched on the NTA network, AIT network and Africa Magic channels, ‘Aiyetoro’ and ‘Jenifa on Lockdown’ kept appealing to youngsters and consumers of new media contents.
In ensuring Jenifa was further taken care of, the actress cum director and producer also went ahead to launch the Jenifa Foundation as well as Jenifa mobile game. The Jenifa mobile game aims to help players improve and better their spelling ability and use of the English language as the Jenifa character battles with the use of English and spelling.
Jenifa also brought out the philanthropic side of Akindele with the creation of Jenifa Foundation.
Speaking on the achievements of the Jenifa Foundation, Akindele said, “I’m thrilled to share with you a glimpse into the impactful work I’ve been dedicated to over the years. My life’s purpose is centred around empowering others, unlocking their full potential, and spreading joy. This is just a small glimpse into the remarkable journey of ‘The Jenifa Foundation,’ and its transformative efforts. I’m grateful for your unwavering support, and I invite you to continue joining me on this mission to create a lasting difference in the lives of others.”
For 16 years after the release of the first franchise and 14 years after the release of the second franchise, Akindele has wet the ground for the release of the third franchise, ‘Everybody Loves Jenifa.’
It was no surprise when Akindele projected a N5 billion box office success for the third franchise. “We are making N5 billion this year,” she said ahead of the premiere, which took place last weekend.
Interestingly, Akindele wasn’t just making a project based on emotions, rather he projection is borne out of the strategy put in place to achieve the sum. The film will screen in cinemas across 33 different countries – including Nigeria, Ghana and the United Kingdom.
It is believed that if Akindele’s last effort, ‘A Tribe called Judah,’ could amass over one billion Naira screening in Nigeria and few other countries, ‘Everybody Loves Jenifa,’ which has a history, will do much more.
[TheNation]
•PDP, LP, NNPP link President’s reforms to worsening hardship, APC, govt defend policies
The Federal Government and opposition parties clashed on Tuesday following the criticism of the economic policies of the Bola Tinubu administration by the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori.
The Peoples Democratic Party and the New Nigeria Peoples Party agreed with the governor that Nigerians are being crushed under the weight of Tinubu’s economic reforms but the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, argued that the reforms had made more resources available to states.
Idris further assured that ‘’Nigerians will feel the benefits in 2025.’’
Baby with Spina Bifida Begins Treatment After Punch Report; Mother Thanks Supporters
Responding to questions from one of our correspondents, the minister stated, “2025 is a year that President Tinubu’s reforms will be consolidated for the benefit of all Nigerians
“Mr President has embarked on an ambitious reform agenda that is already freeing more resources to the subnationals, not just the Federal Government.”
Idris argued that Governor Oborevwori’s comments are a smokescreen to avoid accounting for the increased allocation Delta, an oil-producing state, has enjoyed under Tinubu.
“The Delta governor’s comments about the economic policies of the Tinubu administration are an attempt to distract from the challenge thrown to him to account for the resources of Delta State which have increased vastly in the last 18 months.
“A governor who has received close to a trillion naira since coming to office should focus on accounting for it, not casting aspersions on a Federal Government that is doing everything to empower the states,” the minister counselled.
Oborevwori had accused the Federal Government of unleashing unprecedented hunger, poverty and mass unemployment on Nigerians, turning Nigeria into the world’s poverty capital.
The governor said the probable gains of Tinubu’s policies on petroleum subsidy removal and floating of the naira had been eclipsed by naira devaluation and soaring inflation.
In a statement by his Executive Assistant on New Media, Mr Felix Ofou, the Delta governor said it was time Tinubu embraced policies that would stem poverty and suffering.
His comments came on the backdrop of an assertion by the former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, that the President’s economic policies “increased federal allocation to state and local governments, rising economic growth rates, declining imports, higher exports and higher incomes for farmers.”
However, Oborevwori faulted Omo-Agege’s claim saying, “the value of the increased funds amidst galloping inflation, naira devaluation, and widespread poverty.”
Upon assuming office 18 months ago, President Tinubu announced the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of exchange rates.
Though touted as necessary reforms, these moves triggered seismic economic disruptions, infusing immense pressure into daily Nigerian life.
The fuel subsidy, which had long shielded Nigerians from global oil price volatility, was scrapped, pushing fuel prices from approximately N185 to around N1,100 per litre.
The price of commodities followed suit as fuel costs underpinned transportation, food prices and general consumer goods.
By October 2023, the national inflation rate surged to 32.7 per cent, with food inflation peaking at an alarming 37.5 per cent.
Coupled with subsidy removal was the unification of the multiple exchange rates.
For years, Nigeria operated an artificially pegged naira rate to support imports and control inflation, a policy that led to currency speculation and a thriving black market.
Tinubu’s unification aimed to create a more transparent and equitable foreign exchange regime.
However, it also led to an immediate naira depreciation, severely eroding purchasing power and raising import duties.
This raised the prices of essentials like medicines, electronics and food products, further worsening inflation.
Also, about 104 million Nigerians sank into poverty by December 2023, the World Bank estimated.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH on Tuesday, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, and the NNPP National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, said the policies should be reviewed.
Osadolor said the country was suffering due to the policies of the current administration.
“So, unlike those in Aso Rock who are shielded from the reality of today, the Delta State governor, by virtue of being a community person, feels the pulse of his people firsthand, aside from being governor.
“The people cry to him, and he feels their pain firsthand. We don’t have to be a Governor or a community person to know that there’s hunger in the land. Even the cattle and birds in the country show signs of despair.
“This speaks volumes about what has gone wrong with the country. The country is sick from the policies of the current administration, and it needs healing and deliverance from the economic managers of this government,” he said.
Osadolor argued that the governor simply echoed “what others have been saying.”
He added, “But I want to salute his courage and the risk he faces, even though he has immunity for now, of being retorted or called names.
“He has stepped forward to be counted among those who genuinely mean well for Nigerians and who truly feel the pain and suffering of the people.
“I want all other men of goodwill and character to stand up and speak up and be counted, and say, enough is enough.”
The National Publicity Secretary of the NNPP said the Tinubu administration needed to review its policies before May 29, when Nigerians would finalise their assessment of the APC government.
Johnson stated “Our position has been clear: it doesn’t seem that the policies are working, and people are suffering.
“We have already stated that they should press the reset button and try to see if they can turn things around.
They shouldn’t remain obstinate and continue insisting that it will work.”
Continuing, he said, “All we can do now is wait, but the first test will be on May 29th next year, which will be the mid-term.
“At that point, we can assess the mid-term report card and see where we are and where we seem to be heading.
“By that stage, they will have no excuses. After the first test last year, they said the year was too short, but mid-term is the usual time for evaluation.”
Also speaking with The PUNCH, the National Youth Leader of the Labour Party, Kennedy Ahanotu, said despite having divergent philosophies from Oborevwori, his argument was valid.
Ahanotu said, “Truly, most people are saying that there is a need for Mr President to review his economic policy, and it’s in order. This is because when you want to test run something and you see that people are reacting to it.
“Even if you go to hospital to take an injection, if they start giving you an injection and you are reacting to it, they will remove it and start putting another. So, economic policy is something that is being test run daily.”
He continued, “When you see that it’s too harsh on people, you withdraw and seek other ways to make it work on people without having so much harsh effect. It’s not about what the Delta governor said. I think it’s the position of the majority of Nigerians.
“Some of the economic policies of Mr President should truly be reviewed to align with the economic realities in the country.”
However, the All Progressives Congress disagreed.
The APC argued that it is too early for opposition leaders to play politics with reforms that could salvage the economy and reposition it better for the future.
In a phone interview with one of our correspondents, the National Publicity Director of the APC, Bala Ibrahim, emphasised that the ruling party has an economic and agricultural policy, which Tinubu’s government is implementing accordingly.
He said, “In these reforms or policies, the government of the Federation has introduced for the first time a new Ministry for Livestock Development.
“This is something that has not been done before and the intention is to pay attention to the agricultural sector, in particular, the area of animal and food security.
“The Delta governor is speaking out of tune. Maybe the opposition politics has blinded him by the fact that there is supposed to be a time within which certain things will mature, and then we see the effect.”
He added, “People are not getting impoverished. They are being stimulated and encouraged to go to the farm.
“They are there with the intention of producing more so that there will be food on the table. Very soon, we will start seeing the results.”
Meanwhile, Governor Oborevwori has distanced himself from comments made by his Assistant on Media, Felix Ofou.
Oborevwori, through his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, said the views expressed by Ofou “were entirely personal and did not reflect the position of the Governor or the Delta State Government.”
Ahon said, “The comments attributed to Mr Felix Ofou are his personal views and do not represent the Governor or the Delta State Government.
“Governor Sheriff Oborevwori enjoys a harmonious working relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and has never made any such statements regarding the President’s policies.
“It is, therefore, imperative to state categorically that, as Chief Press Secretary and official spokesman of the Governor of Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori did not, and has never, expressed such views on Mr President’s economic policies.
“The general public is, therefore, advised to jettison such misleading reports as they do not reflect the views of the Governor, who is working very hard to provide good governance for Deltans and other residents of the state despite the present economic challenges faced by the citizens.”
Speaking further, Ahon said the Governor had constantly urged Delta residents and Nigerians to continue to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The CPS said this was the view Oborevwori expressed at the Urhobo Progress Union on Saturday, when the governor stated, “I want to appeal to Urhobo nation today, I am saying it here, I am an Urhobo man and I’m Governor of Delta State.
“But I will tell you today whether you like it or not, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is supporting this administration. God has made him the President as God has made me the Governor of Delta State.
“So, as you are supporting me, support him because if he fails, I will fail, but by the grace of God, he will not fail and I will not fail, too.
“Mr President has appointed our sons and daughters into various positions. He did not appoint people from outside the State. God has given him victory and God has given me victory; you people should support us to succeed.”
The Edo State House of Assembly, on Tuesday, passed a resolution suspending the chairmen and vice chairmen of the 18 local government councils of the state for two months.
The House also mandated leaders of the legislative arms to take over leadership of their respective councils.
The suspension of the council chairmen and their deputies was sequel to a motion moved by the member representing Esan North East 1, Isibor Adeh and seconded by the member representing Akoko-Edo 2, Mr Donald Okogbe.
Governor Monday Okpebholo had earlier written a petition to the House over the refusal of the chairmen to submit financial records of their local government to the state government.
In the letter, the governor, who described the LG chairmen’s refusal as an act of insubordination and gross misconduct, requested the House to look into the matter.
When the matter came up for debate on Tuesday, 14 members supported the motion for the suspension of the LG chairmen, six lawmakers were opposed to the motion while three members maintained neutrality.
The Speaker of the House, Blessing Agbebaku, told the members that all of them must speak on the matter.
The Speaker said, “I will implore that all members of the House speak on this matter before a decision is taken.”
After they had all spoken, the Speaker directed the Clerk of the House, Yahaya Omogbai, to do a head count of the members who supported or opposed the suspension of the council’s chairmen and their deputies.
The opposition Peoples Democratic Party in the state condemned the suspension of the 18 local government chairman.
In a statement by the Edo PDP Caretaker Chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, the party said that the chairmen and their vice were not given the opportunity to defend themselves describing the suspension as unconstitutional.
“The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party condemns in the strongest terms the illegal suspension of the Chairmen of the 18 Local Government Areas of Edo State by the Edo State House of Assembly, following the directive of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
“We want to clearly state that this action is unconstitutional, null, and void.
“The illegal suspension is a blatant disregard for the recent ruling of the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, and the Supreme Court’s decision, in a suit filed by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, which affirmed the autonomy and independence of local governments as guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The PDP contended that Governor Okpebholo lacked the power to demand the financial statements of the LGA in the light of the Supreme Court judgment granting LGs autonomy.
“How can a governor direct the state Assembly to suspend democratically elected chairmen of the 18 local councils for insubordination when these elected officials enjoy autonomy and independence as enshrined in the Constitution and are not subordinates of the governor, the State Assembly, or any other arm of government?
“We are also aware that the chairmen and their vices weren’t even given the opportunity to be heard in their defence and were suspended unheard on watery trumped-up charges, in total disregard to the Constitution.
“We want to restate that the Constitution remains supreme, and any attempt to undermine its provisions or disregard the judiciary and its rulings is not only illegal but also a direct attack on democracy and the rule of law.
“The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly and the entire Assembly have clearly overstepped their constitutional mandates with this illegal action and we urge them to immediately reverse its decision, with respect to the rule of law and democratic governance.”
In an interview with The PUNCH, one of the LG chairmen, who spoke anonymously because he was not been authorised to speak on the matter, said the Association of Local Government of Nigerian in the state would make his position known in the coming days.
He said, “We got the notice of the suspension but I cannot speak on the matter as I am not the ALGON Chairman of the state.
“However, we will make our position known in the coming days.”
[Punch]
The minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has likened Abia State governor Alex Otti’s time in the Labour Party to that of a prodigal son who will eventually find his way home.
Otti was a member of the All Progressives Congress in 2020 after leaving All Progressives Grand Alliance APGA, before joining the Labour Party where he contested in the governorship election and won in 2023.
Keyamo said this during his speech at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Abia International Airport.
“The President’s motivation was also the fact that he loves the governor of this state, he loves his spirit. I know the comments he has made about the governor of this state and how much people here love him so much.
“Today is not the day for politics, he strayed away, he was with us, he strayed away like the prodigal son.” He said
Speaking further Keyamo explained how it was upgraded to an international airport rather than the initially planned airstrip.
“When I called Dr Alex Otti and I broke the news to him, he said no, I will partner with you, I will also put in counterpart funding, let us upgrade it to an international airport. This was what happened. As minister of aviation, I’m just telling you the trajectory.”
[Vanguard]
Nigerian screen sensation Chioma Akpotha, celebrated for her magnetic performance in Femi Adebayo’s hit Netflix original, Seven Doors, recently veered into uncharted emotional territory, addressing a deeply personal and long-ignored topic—generational curses.
While basking in the glow of critical acclaim, Chioma seized the platform during a revealing interview on Channels Television to share an astonishing tale of her family’s dark and complex history.
In a moment of raw vulnerability, Chioma unveiled the chilling origins of her family’s struggles, tracing it back to their ancestral surname, Omuka, which sheb abandoned due to an ominous generational curse.
According to the actress, the curse stemmed from a grave injustice committed by her forefathers, who, in a moment of cruelty, buried slaves alive. She said these victims cursed their lineage, condemned future generations to a cycle of premature and mysterious deaths.
The curse, Chioma Akpotha explained, wasn’t just a myth passed down through whispers; it was a harsh reality her family lived with for decades. She recounted how the curse manifested as a relentless cycle of untimely deaths among the youth in her family.
Determined to shatter their family’s dark legacy, Chioma revealed how she and her father turned to relentless prayers, fueled by unshakable faith and their dream to live long enough to hold their great-grandchildren—a defiant testament to breaking the generational curse that loomed over their bloodline.
CATCH HER SHOCKING DISCLOSURE IN THE CLIP BELOW
Media
Amanda Amaeshi, an award-winning activist, campaigner, and writer, has been named My Life My Say’s ‘Changemaker of the Year’ for 2024.
Amaeshi’s work entails gender equality, anti-racism, and youth voices.
The award, decided by public vote, was announced at My Life My Say’s ‘Next Generation conference,’ held on November 22 at the Barbican Centre in London.
The conference—an annual highlight of the youth-led, nonpartisan charity’s activities—brought hundreds of young people alongside renowned speakers, activists, and politicians together to explore innovative solutions to some of society’s biggest challenges.
Amaeshi was announced the winner from a shortlist of inspiring changemakers across youth leadership, social enterprise, climate activism, media, and culture.
A final-year law student at University College London (UCL), Amaeshi has consistently used her voice to influence policy and advocate for social justice.
In 2017, she won the ‘Young reporters for the environment’ competition for her writing on food waste solutions in Scotland.
Her advocacy journey gained momentum when she became a Year of Young People 2018 ambassador, advocating for youth rights and participation in politics—important issues in Scotland.
In 2020, she was featured on the Young Women’s Movement’s 30 Under 30 list and was honoured as the Glasgow Times ‘Young Scotswoman of the year’.
In 2022, she was listed in the WOW Foundation’s young leaders’ directory.
As a member of Girlguiding’s national advocate panel, Amaeshi has spoken out on issues affecting girls and young women in the UK and has engaged audiences of chief executive officers (CEOs), politicians, and decision-makers.
“Winning is an honour, as I’ve said, but it’s even more of an honour to have a platform to share what I’ve done with others, perhaps with those who otherwise wouldn’t have known because, really, this award’s not about me: it’s about the work that I’ve done, the work that I do together with other people, and its positive impact for society at large,” she said while accepting the 2024 award.
Amaeshi serves on Scotland’s first minister’s national advisory council on women and girls (NACWG), engaging in collaborative intersectional policy scrutiny.
[TheCable]
Nigerian actress Bukunmi Oluwashina has taken a bold and unapologetic stance against the lingering envy, rivalry, and toxic competition she’s observed festering like a silent plague among her female colleagues in the entertainment industry.
Taking to her Instagram page on Monday, December 16, the actress did not mince words as she poured out her thoughts, offering a sharp and sobering comparison between the uplifting camaraderie she admires among her male counterparts and the cutthroat atmosphere she perceives among female stars.
Bukunmi expressed deep admiration for the brotherhood she sees among male actors. She highlighted how these men, despite often sharing the same ambitions, manage to cheer each other on, grow together, celebrate each other’s wins, and hold space for one another without allowing jealousy to creep in.
She wrote;
“I envy these men. Just take a look at them. The way they contain each other, support each other, grow together…
“Their collective growth is evident in how they acknowledge and cheer each other on, despite sharing the same goals. The joy I feel when I run into one of my fav actor’s movies on my fav director’s page. And how the actor sings the Director’s praise in his absence, even though he is also a director..”
In stark contrast, Bukunmi lamented the toxic culture that often poisons the bond between female stars, an ugly mix of competition, rivalry, and resentment that creates an unbridgeable divide.
She recounted instances where she’s been explicitly warned not to extend a hand of kindness or support to one female colleague for fear of “offending” another.
Bukunmi continued;
“I pray I Withness this someday with my gender in this field. You people make loving genuinely like a very difficult thing. It cost nothing. Someone asked me “How do you think this person would feel for posting that person? You are supposed to post this Person first and then post that. This person won’t like or drop a comment if you post that person” How did we get here??
“And some fans from the pit of hell would be asking you too choose a side. Are we on a battlefield? Okay, if we are, what are we fighting for? Crown? Money? Post? Nice one, which of them are we taking with us when we die? I am not even going to blame some bitter followers who act like they are not loved ay home. The energy they see is what they give.”
Drawing the line firmly in the sand, Bukunmi made her position abundantly clear: she will not, under any circumstances, be coerced into picking sides or harboring hatred to satisfy anyone’s insecurities or grudges.
With an unshakable resolve, she sent a warning to those who live for the toxicity, that she wants no part in their petty games, their envy-fueled rivalries, or their silent wars.
She added;
“Let it be known that i am at peace with everyone and this heart has no limitation in love. I am not going to war with anyone for anyone unless they PERSONALLY give me a reason.
“Joy is no joy to me if its purpose is to make other people feel sad. And love is not love if it’s not shared with those who don’t deserve it.”
SEE HER POST BELOW
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The President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu, says the continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, is a moral burden on the federal government.
Kanu is being detained in the custody of the DSS over alleged tourism.
According to Nze Chukwu, “there is no sufficient reason for the prolonged detention of Kanu by the security agency of the state.
Nze Chukwu said he would collaborate with some Igbo leaders in government for a collective effort towards the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Nze Chukwu made the remarks in his inaugural meeting with the NEC held in Enugu.
On the forthcoming election of Ohanaeze executives, Nze Chukwu called for the election of credible leaders into the executive of pan-Igbo executive. He expressed delight that the Imeobi Ohanaeze has resolved that there should be a screening committee to ensure that the incoming NEC comprised men and women with integrity.
He regretted the disunity among the Igbo, recalling the enviable Igbo unity during the Dr M. I. Okpara regime that propelled the Igbo to become one of the most educated ethnic groups in Africa.
According to him, “During the Okpara regime, almost all the schools, churches, markets, hospitals, and other social facilities were through the organized town unions. There were farm settlements that provided the required agricultural techniques for improved farming activities. There was food sufficiency in Igbo land, but most regrettably, the subsequent Igbo leaders appeared to have abandoned their responsibilities.”
He said it was the combination of Igbo internal peace, unity and food security that registered Eastern Nigeria as one of the fastest growing economies in the world under Okpara.
Nze Chukwu lamented that, at present, all forms of agricultural produce ranging from yam, beans, tomatoes, cows, goats, ram, carrot and garden egg come from the North.
He condemned the extortions on various road networks in Igboland, stating that a trip from Enugu to Onitsha, “a distance of 100km, would take about four hours because of numerous money extorting checkpoints mounted by the army, police,Road Safety, Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO), and community vigilantes.”
He decried the lack of vision of the contemporary Igbo leaders, explaining that, “While Harvard in the USA is curious about the Igbo successes through the Igba Apprenticeship Scheme, the present crop of Igbo are losing grip of that fascinating Igbo heritage.”
He attributed the restiveness among Igbo youths to “the dereliction of Igbo vital values”, and made a case for the prioritisation of the empowerment of Igbo youths.
Charles Osazuwa, the senior pastor and president of Osazuwa World Outreach (OWO), has shared a testimony with his congregation, recounting his extraordinary experience at the recently concluded Shiloh 2024.
Shiloh is the Annual Convocation of the Winners’ church worldwide led by Bishop David Oyedepo.
The 2024 edition of the convocation took place from December 10th to 15th, 2024.
Addressing his church members, Pastor Osazuwa revealed that he received “seeds” in dollars at the convention, attributing this blessing to his unwavering commitment to following God’s plan for his life.
The cleric, who pastors one of the largest churches in Benin City, emphasized the significance of adhering to divine guidance, rather than being swayed by personal desires or inclinations.
Pastor Osazuwa also graciously acknowledged the instrumental role Bishop David Oyedepo has played in his life and ministry, expressing his deep gratitude for the tutelage and mentorship he received from the renowned bishop.
He recounted his transformative experience in 1999 when he attended a teaching on divine direction, which profoundly impacted his life and ministry.
The cleric said: “If I have not met my father, David Oyedepo in 1999, there is no force that would have brought me to Benin. Even if you carry me, I won’t move.
“I was in this same class in 1999 when there was a teaching on divine direction, the benefit of following God, not your heart, not your mind. I was restless, then I said, God, I am ready. That’s why today I am grateful to God that I was in that class.”
Sharing his testimony from Shiloh, Pastor Osazuwa recounted: “I was in Shiloh this week and before I left Shiloh, pastors, people were given me seed in dollars.
“Before I left Shiloh, one guy saw me from Port Harcourt. He said I am a real estate man, I follow you, sir, can I have privilege.
“Another man followed me. Dollars everywhere. Why? Because I followed His plan.”
In conclusion, Pastor Osazuwa charged his congregation to recommit themselves to God, regardless of how far they may have strayed.
He said: “No matter how far you have gone, If God is not in, back out before you get stranded.”
Meanwhile, the message has elicited diverse reactions on social media, with some individuals condemning the pastor for sharing a testimony about receiving money, while others expressed their gratitude for the inspiring message.
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Musa Aliyu, chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), says the anti-graft agency “recovered and remitted the sum of N10.986 billion in value-added tax (VAT)” to the Federal Inland Revenue (FIRS) within one year.
Aliyu spoke on Tuesday at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja while marking his one year in office.
He said the commission also recovered N29.700 billion in cash and N10 billion meant for the production of COVID-19 vaccines.
He said the agency secured final forfeiture of assets to the tune of N2.5 billion and “foreign currency recoveries of $966,900.83”.
“The commission just completed the tracking of 1,500 projects, valued at N610 billion, nationwide under CEPTI Phase 7,” he said.
“The ICPC, under my stewardship, continues to adapt to evolving trends in fulfilling its mandates, including equipping its workforce with digital strategies to combat corruption. The current administration’s anti-corruption agenda and my policy thrust encapsulated in the acronym ‘CARE’ for impact, have further motivated the commission to enhance its tools, approaches, and engagements.”
The ICPC boss said 851 petitions were processed under the year in review, with 342 assigned for investigation, 95 fully investigated, 72 cases filed in court, and 16 convictions secured.
“In this regard, we are streamlining our processes to ensure faster and more effective prosecution of cases, leading to the resuscitation of 10-15-year-old cases in courts,” he said.
“As part of its commitment to institutional accountability, the commission assessed 323 ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) through its ethics and integrity compliance scorecard (EICS). It also established 80 anti-corruption and transparency units (ACTUs) across MDAs to reinforce its anti-corruption efforts.
“While doing these, the commission stopped the diversion of public funds to the tune of N5.882 billion. The report of the EICS exercise conducted middle of this year is ready and will also be released to the media to the public.
“In the year under my leadership, the ICPC brought together the 36 states’ attorneys-general under one roof to brainstorm and had robust conversations on developing effective strategies that would enhance the commission’s capacity in the fight against corruption at the sub-national level and within the current justice system.
“This initiative is yielding results as the regional editions of this engagement, aimed at establishing a community of practice and strengthening capacity for corruption prevention, have since started with the north-west conference of attorneys-general.”
Aliyu said while the commission has made significant progress, there is still much work to be done.
He noted that in the coming year, the anti-graft agency will focus on improving efficiency, enhancing public engagement, strengthening institutional frameworks and leveraging technology.
Bolaji Owasanoye, former ICPC chairman, urged Aliyu to reflect on his first year in office, pinpoint areas for growth, cultivate resilience, and develop a forward-thinking approach to tackle future challenges.
The ICPC chair was commended by the anti-corruption agencies of Zambia, Uganda and Sierra Leone for his efforts in tackling corruption in Nigeria.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has set a daily withdrawal limit on point-of-sale (PoS) terminals to N100,000 per customer.
In a circular to all deposit money banks (DMBs), microfinance Banks, mobile money operators and super-agents, titled ‘Cash-out limits for agent banking transactions,’ CBN said the restriction is in line with the apex bank’s ongoing efforts to advance a cash-less economy.
According to the circular, the interventions aim to address identified challenges, combat fraud and establish uniform operational standards across the industry.
“In view of the above, ALL principals of agents are to comply with the following directives immediately:
i. Issuers shall set a cash withdrawal limit (cash-out) per customer (regardless of channel) to N500,000.00 per week,” the circular reads.
“ii. Ensure that all agent banking terminals are set to a daily maximum transaction cash-out limit of N100,000.00 per customer.
“iii. Ensure that each agent’s daily cumulative cash-out limit shall not exceed N1,200,000.00.
“iv. Ensure that agent banking services are clearly demarcated from merchant activities and that agents apply the approved Agent Code 6010 for agent banking activities.
“v. Ensure that agency banking activities are consummated exclusively through agent float accounts maintained with the principals.
“vi. Monitor accounts associated with the agents’ BVN(S) with a view to identifying agent banking activities which may be conducted outside the designated float account(s).
“vii. Ensure that all agent terminals are connected to a PTSA
“viii. Ensure that all daily transactions per agent, including withdrawals, limits of transactions and balances in the float accounts of each agent, are sent electronically to NIBSS as a repot to the CBN. The template of this report will be sent to principals.”
CBN said as stated in the guidelines for the regulation of agent banking and agent banking relationships in Nigeria, principals would be held fully responsible and liable for all actions and omissions of their agents related to agent banking services.
The apex bank also warned that it would conduct oversight activities, including impromptu back-end configuration checks to ensure compliance.
CBN said breach of the directives contained in the circular will attract appropriate penalties including monetary and/or administrative sanctions.