The Middle East crisis may cause Nigeria and other African countries to work from home— Aliko Dangote

By: Naija prime media on March 24, 2026 / comment : 0

Dangote made this known on Monday following a meeting with Bola Tinubu at his residence in Ikoyi, Lagos. He expressed concern over the potential economic fallout of the situation, particularly the impact of volatile global oil prices on African economies already burdened by significant debt.

According to him, any major disruption in the global oil market could trigger wider economic instability, prompting governments and businesses to consider remote working arrangements as part of broader contingency measures.

Abubakar Malami Alleges Intimidation as Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Moves to Enforce Maitama Property Forfeiture

By: Naija prime media on March 24, 2026 / comment : 0

According to reports by Channels Television, operatives of the anti-graft agency arrived at Malami’s home early Tuesday morning to enforce a court-ordered forfeiture and assume control of the property. The development follows recent actions by security agencies targeting several assets linked to the former minister across the Federal Capital Territory.

During earlier operations, EFCC officials reportedly visited multiple locations, including private residences and office spaces associated with Malami, marking them for seizure. Eyewitness accounts and video footage from those raids captured tense exchanges, with Malami confronting operatives and demanding to see valid court orders and proper authorization. He questioned the legality of the process, insisting that due process must be followed.

Meanwhile, the EFCC has maintained that its actions are lawful and backed by judicial authority. Sources within the Commission stated that the operation is being carried out in compliance with a valid court-issued forfeiture order, in line with Section 5 of the EFCC Act, which empowers the agency to investigate financial crimes and recover assets suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activity.

Speaking on Monday after the initial raid, Malami acknowledged the existence of a court order dated January 6, 2026, authorizing the interim forfeiture of his properties. However, he argued that the order granted him 14 days to respond, which he says he has already done.

He described the conduct of the operatives as intimidating, alleging that heavily armed personnel harassed members of his household under the pretext of serving invitation letters. According to him, multiple properties and business premises linked to him were also targeted on March 23, 2026.

Malami further stated that he has challenged the forfeiture order in court and filed an application seeking to have it set aside. He also alleged that the EFCC’s actions are politically motivated.

Davido to headline Curate first ever festival in London

By: Naija prime media on March 24, 2026 / comment : 0

The “5ive” hitmaker revealed that this will be his only outdoor performance in the city this summer, making it a highly anticipated occasion for fans. Sharing the news on social media, the Grammy-nominated star invited fans to register early for access, while also confirming ticket sale dates: pre-sale begins March 26 at 10 a.m. GMT, followed by general sales on March 27 at the same time.

More than just a standard concert, the festival will see Davido take on a curatorial role, personally selecting the lineup of performers. The “& Friends” concept has already generated buzz and speculation, with fans eager to see which artists might join him on stage—though no guest acts have been officially announced yet.

The event is part of the wider “Palace Bowl Presents” series, a lineup of shows scheduled to run from July 31 through August 16 at the historic London venue.

Nigeria Set to Join Global Palm Oil Council to Bridge 1.4 Million Tonne Supply Gap

By: Akindele Victoria on February 21, 2026 / comment : 0

The Federal Government has announced its intention to transition from observer status to full membership of the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC). The move, confirmed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, on Friday, aims to reposition Nigeria as a dominant player in the global $70 billion palm oil market.

The CPOPC, led by Indonesia and Malaysia, has offered Nigeria a two-year membership fee waiver to facilitate its integration. The council serves as a unified voice for producing nations on global trade, sustainability standards, and technical cooperation.

The Economic Challenge

Despite being Africa's largest producer, Nigeria currently faces a significant supply deficit:

• Annual Production: 1.57 million metric tonnes.

• Annual Consumption: Approximately 3 million metric tonnes.

• The Goal: The National Palm Produce Association (NPPAN) aims to scale production to 10 million tonnes by 2050 to achieve self-sufficiency and eliminate foreign exchange outflows for imports.

Diplomatic Significance

Minister Tuggar emphasized that palm oil is a "cornerstone of food security and rural livelihoods." Full membership in the council is expected to strengthen Nigeria's collective bargaining power and provide local smallholder farmers with access to international sustainability certifications and advanced agricultural technology.

A technical committee will validate the transition report in April 2026 to formalize Nigeria’s seat at the global table.

Reader Question:

Can Nigeria successfully reclaim its status as a global palm oil leader through international partnerships, or are domestic infrastructure challenges too significant to overcome?

 has announced its intention to transition from observer status to full membership of the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC). The move, confirmed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, on Friday, aims to reposition Nigeria as a dominant player in the global $70 billion palm oil market.

The CPOPC, led by Indonesia and Malaysia, has offered Nigeria a two-year membership fee waiver to facilitate its integration. The council serves as a unified voice for producing nations on global trade, sustainability standards, and technical cooperation.

The Economic Challenge

Despite being Africa's largest producer, Nigeria currently faces a significant supply deficit:

• Annual Production: 1.57 million metric tonnes.

• Annual Consumption: Approximately 3 million metric tonnes.

• The Goal: The National Palm Produce Association (NPPAN) aims to scale production to 10 million tonnes by 2050 to achieve self-sufficiency and eliminate foreign exchange outflows for imports.

Diplomatic Significance

Minister Tuggar emphasized that palm oil is a "cornerstone of food security and rural livelihoods." Full membership in the council is expected to strengthen Nigeria's collective bargaining power and provide local smallholder farmers with access to international sustainability certifications and advanced agricultural technology.

A technical committee will validate the transition report in April 2026 to formalize Nigeria’s seat at the global table.

Reader Question:

Can Nigeria successfully reclaim its status as a global palm oil leader through international partnerships, or are domestic infrastructure challenges too significant to overcome?

Lagos State Police Command Arrests Officers Involved in Fatal Shooting of Passersby

By: Akindele Victoria on February 21, 2026 / comment : 0

The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed the arrest and detention of two officers following a fatal shooting incident that resulted in the deaths of two unidentified passersby. The incident, which occurred during a late-night patrol operation on Friday, has sparked renewed calls for stricter adherence to the rules of engagement within the force.

According to a preliminary report from the Command, the officers were involved in a pursuit of suspected hoodlums in the Alimosho area when they discharged their firearms. While the officers claimed the discharge was "accidental" and triggered by the difficult terrain, the rounds struck two civilians who were reportedly returning from work.

Accountability and Orderly Room Trial

The State Commissioner of Police has ordered an immediate Orderly Room Trial for the affected officers. In a statement released through the Command's spokesperson, the police emphasized that there is no justification for the loss of innocent lives during routine security operations.

"The Lagos State Police Command deeply regrets this tragic occurrence. We have already reached out to the families of the victims to offer our condolences and ensure they are kept informed throughout the investigation," the statement read. The officers involved have been disarmed and remain in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti.

Public and Civil Society Reaction

Human rights advocates in Lagos have characterized the arrests as a "necessary first step" but are demanding more transparent reforms. "While we commend the swift arrest, the frequent recurrence of 'accidental discharge' suggests a systemic need for better tactical training and psychological evaluation for officers on night duty," stated a representative from a prominent Lagos-based legal aid group.

The Command has assured the public that the outcome of the trial will be made public and that any officer found guilty of professional misconduct or criminal negligence will be dismissed and prosecuted in a court of competent jurisdiction.

Reader Question:

Does the immediate arrest of the officers involved show a positive shift toward police accountability in Lagos, or are more fundamental reforms needed to prevent these tragedies?

President Tinubu Congratulates NIPR as Institute Emerges 2025 Global Public Relations Association of the Year

By: Akindele Victoria on February 21, 2026 / comment : 0

ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his congratulations to the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) following its emergence as the "Global Public Relations Association of the Year" at the 2025 World Public Relations and Communication Awards. The prestigious honor was announced during a ceremony held in Lisbon, Portugal, on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

The NIPR was adjudged the best in the world following a rigorous and highly competitive selection process involving 89 entries from 19 countries. The institute edged out top contenders, including the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), to clinch the top prize.

A Landmark Achievement for Nigeria

In a statement issued on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the recognition as a "resounding endorsement of Nigeria’s growing influence and professionalism within the global strategic communications ecosystem."

The President commended the leadership of the NIPR, particularly its President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Ike Neliaku, and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris. He noted that the award reflects the transformative reforms and international engagement initiatives championed by the institute over the past year.

Setting Global Benchmarks

The award recognizes the NIPR's excellence in several key areas, including:

• Combating Quackery: Innovative stakeholder engagement strategies to sanitize the PR profession in Nigeria.

• Institutional Growth: The induction of over 2,000 new members, including high-ranking military officers and legal professionals, to mainstream professional communication.

• National Reputation Management: Setting global benchmarks in ethical communication and public trust-building.

Looking Ahead: WPRF 2026

This global victory arrives as Nigeria prepares to host the World Public Relations Forum (WPRF) 2026 in Abuja this coming November. The event is expected to attract thousands of communication professionals from across the globe, further cementing Nigeria’s role as a hub for strategic dialogue and professional excellence.

President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting institutions that elevate Nigeria’s global image and urged the NIPR to maintain its drive for innovation and integrity.

Reader Question:

How significant is this global recognition for Nigeria’s international diplomacy efforts and the overall perception of the country's professional landscape?

Casualties Mount as Bandits Raid Dutse Dan Ajiya Village in Zamfara State; 50 Residents Feared Dead

By: Akindele Victoria on February 21, 2026 / comment : 0

GUSAU — A coordinated assault by armed bandits on the remote village of Dutse Dan Ajiya in the Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State has left at least 50 people dead and several others missing. The attack, which began late Thursday night and stretched into the early hours of Friday, is being described by local authorities as one of the deadliest raids in the region this year.

Survivors reported that the attackers, numbering in their hundreds and riding on motorcycles, emerged from the Gando forest. The bandits reportedly blocked all major exit routes from the community before opening indiscriminate fire on residents as they attempted to flee their homes.

Details of the Assault

Hamisu Faru, a member of the State House of Assembly representing the area, confirmed the casualty figures on Saturday. "The bandits laid siege to Dutse Dan Ajiya and opened fire on anyone in sight. We have already prepared dozens of bodies for mass burial," Faru stated.

In addition to the loss of life, several houses and granaries were set ablaze, and an unconfirmed number of women and children were reportedly abducted into the surrounding forests. The village, known for its difficult terrain and limited access routes, faced significant delays in receiving security reinforcement during the peak of the attack.

Police and Military Response

The spokesperson for the Zamfara State Police Command, ASP Yazid Abubakar, confirmed the incident but placed the initial official death toll at 38, noting that search-and-rescue operations are ongoing to account for missing persons. "Normalcy has been restored to the area as of Saturday morning following the deployment of tactical units to the community," Abubakar added.

The incident occurred just 48 hours after the Minister of Defence launched a new fleet of sophisticated armored personnel carriers and surveillance drones in the state capital, intended to bolster the military's "kinetic operations" against bandit hideouts.

International Attention

The escalating violence in Nigeria’s Northwest has drawn renewed international scrutiny. Security analysts suggest that the "Lakurawa" and other bandit groups are increasingly coordinating their efforts, exploiting the porous borders between Zamfara, Kebbi, and Sokoto states to evade military pursuit.

Reader Question:

Given the scale of this latest assault in Zamfara despite recent military hardware deployments, what specific measures should the Federal Government prioritize to secure remote rural communities?