Mohammed Shosanya

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has  inducted the second cohort of its Non-Resident Fellowship Programme (NRFP), designed to champion evidence-based policy-making in Nigeria.

The induction of non-resident fellows, underscored its commitment to bridging the gap between socio-economic research and public policy in Nigeria,NESG said in a statement.

According to the group,”The NRFP is designed to foster collaboration among leading experts to produce actionable insights that influence evidence-based policymaking.

“This 18-month edition leverages the expertise of distinguished fellows to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges.

“By strengthening the connection between research and governance reforms, the programme contributes to sustainable development in a complex and dynamic global environment.”

Speaking Dr. Tayo Aduloju,Chief Executive Officer of the NESG,described the NRFP as a “beacon of knowledge” and a transformative platform for driving impactful governance reform.

He highlighted the first cohort’s achievements,including impactful cluster reports and positive feedback from stakeholders.

“The NRFP is a testament to our dedication to shaping Nigeria’s development agenda through high-quality research and evidence-based policies,” Dr. Aduloju noted.

He also emphasised the NESG’s vision of building a Pan-African network of economists and researchers to foster transformative, cross-border conversations that drive Africa toward global competitiveness.

Dr. Olusegun Omisakin, Director of Research at the NESG, welcomed the new cohort by emphasising the importance of collaboration in addressing Nigeria’s developmental challenges.

He noted that members of the first cohort have become integral to the NESG’s research ecosystem, contributing to broader projects and strengthening the research department’s capabilities.

He also emphasized the need to focus on governance, inclusive growth, and critical sectors such as trade and the economy.

During the inauguration,Mr. Olaniyi Yusuf, Chairman of the NESG, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to translating high-quality research into actionable policies.

He spoke on the NESG’s extensive contributions, including research in telecommunications, oil and gas, and maritime sectors, alongside hosting impactful conferences and facilitating public dialogue.

“Despite recent reforms like fuel subsidy removal and FX policy changes, economic growth must translate into improved livelihoods for Nigeria’s vulnerable population.

“The NRFP provides a platform to harness research to tackle these pressing challenges,” Yusuf stated.

He encouraged the new fellows to work diligently and contribute meaningfully to transforming Nigeria into a modern and globally competitive economy.

The second cohort featured distinguished researchers and policymakers selected for their expertise in addressing critical areas of Nigeria’s development.

In economy and trade thematic Area: Adesoji Farayibi, a doctoral researcher in Economics at the University of Ibadan, Head of Economic Development and Research at DAWN Commission, and Co-leader of FirstFord Africa, was selected along side Dr. Mustapha Hussaini,a Senior Lecturer and Dean at Sule Lamido University, who has been  recognised for his contributions to economic research and policy development as well as Dr. Oluwanbepelumi Esther Olanubi, an economist,who specialises in macroeconomic modeling and international development, and Co-founder of Kingsgate Advisors Institute.

In governance and social inclusion thematic Area: Dr. Augustine Okere, an expert in development policy analysis and international political economy, with a focus on socio-economic inclusion and global development agendas and Dr. Aminat Olohunlana,a multi-disciplinary researcher with 17 years of experience in gender development, financial inclusion, and climate change as well as Dr. Zayyad Tsiga,a Senior Policy Manager at J-PAL Africa and former CEO of the Kaduna State Residents Identity Management Agency, specialising in digital public infrastructure and e-governance, were all selected.

The NESG said it:”remains unwavering in its mission to create a sustainable, inclusive,and competitive economy by fostering collaboration among industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers.

“This second cohort of Non-Resident Fellows embodies the knowledge, expertise, and dedication necessary to drive meaningful change and shape Nigeria’s future.”

Mohammed Shosanya

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo says  South-East region has sustained losses exceeding N34 trillion in investment opportunities across its 95 Local Government Areas on account of alleged reign of terror propagated by Mr Simon Ekpa’s group.

The group said that the colossal tragedy affects every Igbo household, as they endure the personal toll of violence, brutalities,and abductions perpetrated under the guise of seeking autonomy.

Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro,Secretary General Ohaneze Ndigbo,disclosed this in a press statement at the weekend.

He said:”The truth that begs acknowledgment is:what tangible achievements have been realized from this campaign of destruction? Has any of their actions succeeded in threatening federal economic interests or eliciting any substantive governmental response?”.

He explained that it is compelling to address the alarming declarations allegedly made by Simon Ekpa and his associates regarding the unmandated declaration of a Sovereign Biafran Nation on December 2, 2024.

“This urgent press release serves to clarify the consequences of these actions, which will not only fail to impact Nigeria but will significantly exacerbate the ongoing destruction of the Southeastern region”.

“Following a thorough examination of the destructive activities pursued by Simon Ekpa and his dissident faction over the past three years, it has become abundantly clear that their actions have created a maelstrom of violence and suffering. The region—once celebrated for its educational excellence, cultural richness, and economic prosperity—has been reduced to a shell of its former self. As businesses flee from instability and fear grips our communities, we find ourselves in mourning not just for lost investments, but for the very essence of Igbo identity itself.

“We must be candid.The answer is a resounding no.They only succeeded in further marginalizing our people, undermining our communities, and driving investment away from our beloved Southeast. In contrast, the Federal Government has remained unyielding, dispatching military assets to suppress the criminalities that have stunted our growth, resulting in a more heavily policed region that has lost its appeal for both local and foreign investors.

“Ohaneze Ndigbo vehemently calls upon all individuals involved in the gatherings in Finland to understand that they do not have the legitimate authority to speak or act on behalf of the Igbo populace at home and in the diaspora. Their forthcoming declaration of independence is not only audacious but entirely unfounded. It is a reckless endeavor that could elevate tensions and provoke further military action against our region during a season that should be characterized by unity and celebration”.

“We implore those aligned with Simon Ekpa’s faction—social media content creators, in particular—to reconsider their misguided path, as their actions pose a tangible threat not only to our social fabric but also to their own families and communities. The fallout of such reckless defiance could incite a military presence that exacerbates the humanitarian crisis during the holiday season, further entrenching suffering among the very people these dissidents claim to represent.

“Moreover, we wish to make it abundantly clear: any escalation resulting from these declarations will only serve to complicate Simon Ekpa’s legal challenges in Finland. The Finnish government will likely utilize any counteractions as critical evidence that could accelerate his prosecution by May 2025, thus magnifying his woes and displaying a complete disregard for the safety and dignity of our people”.

Mohammed Shosanya

The National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta FORUM (PANDEF),Ambassador Godknows Igali has called on the Federal Government to urgently reverse the  neglect of the Itu-Calabar Road connecting Akwa Ibom and Cross River states.

Speaking to newsmen on arrival at the UJ Usuene Airport,Calabar for the funeral of the Second Republic Senate President and leader of the National Assembly,he decried  the situation of the road under succeeding administrations as a criminal neglect.

The leader of the apex South-South’s socio-political body,stated that the road is presently one of the worst in  Nigeria, describing it as ‘a road where very little work is being done and as such, has become a death trap in which helpless Nigerian commuters struggle their way along with thousands of heavy duty trucks on the route’.

He urged President Bola Tinubu to prioritise the completion of the Itu-Calabar road by funding competent contractors as a fitting tribute to the memory of Senator Wayas.

He described Senator Wayas as a Nigerian patriot of a special class and appealed that his immediate area; i.e Akwa Ibom and Cross River states must not be allowed to continue to suffer.

He thanked President Tinubu,the President of the Senate, Chief Godswill Akpabio and the Governor of Cross River state, Senator Prince Bassey Otu for taking steps to accord the  late Senator Wayas a befitting interment.

Mohammed Shosanya

The Lagos State Taskforce has dismissed two of its personnel following their involvement in theft during a recent raid.

The operation, conducted at a hotel in Gowon Estate known for harboring drug users and traffickers, resulted in numerous arrests,a statement said on Friday.

The statement quoted that the integrity of the raid was compromised by the actions of two officials whose misconduct was captured on CCTV.

The culprits, Fatai Yusuf (42) and Hammed Garuba (38), were found guilty of stealing mobile phones from the scene.

It added:”Both individuals, serving as paramilitary officers within the agency, were subjected to a meticulous investigation by the agency’s Disciplinary Committee. Upon confirmation of their guilt, they were summarily dismissed from service and will face immediate prosecution for theft”.

CSP Adetayo Akerele, Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, faulted the actions of the dismissed personnel, reaffirming the agency’s unwavering commitment to integrity and accountability. He issued a stern admonition to all personnel, emphasizing that any breach of ethical conduct would attract severe consequences.

“The Lagos State Taskforce is guided by principles of discipline, equity, and justice. Any act that compromises the agency’s credibility or erodes public trust will be addressed decisively and without hesitation,” he declared.

Besides,the first group of 53 drug peddlers and users apprehended during earlier operations have been remanded at the Badagry Correctional Centre after being charged in court.

This week, in a subsequent raid targeting drug hotspots and illicit structures within Gowon Estate, Ipaja, Lagos, the Taskforce arrested 43 additional suspects.

The operation led to the demolition of identified drug hideouts and shanties to deter recurring criminal activities in the area.

All apprehended individuals have been promptly arraigned, underscoring the agency’s relentless commitment to eradicating drug-related crimes and ensuring public safety,the statement added.

Mohammed Shosanya

The House of Representatives has confirmed the appointment of Gen. Olufemi Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff of the Nigerian Army.

The confirmation came after a thorough screening conducted on Wednesday by the House Joint Committee on Defence and Army.

The process,chaired by key lawmakers, involved assessing the qualifications, experience, and strategic vision of the nominee for the leadership of the Nigerian Army.

His confirmation followed the submission of a report by the Joint Committee on the Screening and Confirmation of the Acting Chief of Army Staff.

The report was presented during Thursday’s plenary by the committee chairman, Hon. Babajimi Benson, who represents the Ikorodu Federal Constituency.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu,who presided over the session,granted the prayer for General Oluyede’s confirmation.

Providing a summary of the committee’s findings, Hon. Benson said: “On November 26, 2024, this parliament graciously mandated us to screen the Acting Army Chief. The screening exercise took place on Wednesday, during which we reviewed his credentials and engaged him on critical issues, including inter-agency collaboration and civilian-military relations.

“Based on our assessment, General Olufemi Oluyede demonstrated that he is both fit and capable for this role. He gave an impressive account of himself, and we concluded that this House should approve his appointment.”

Following the presentation,the House unanimously approved the committee’s recommendation, confirming General Oluyede’s appointment as Chief of Army Staff

Prior to his question before his colleagues, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu,said:“There is only one recommendation in this report. That recommendation says that the ad-hoc committee carefully and thoroughly engaged with the nominee for the position of the Chief of Army Staff and was satisfied with his academic and professional qualifications, exposure, character, conduct, experience and general performance.

“The ad-hoc committee also observed that the nominee displayed wide and in-depth knowledge of strategies and tactics during his acting capacity. The committee hereby recommend that General Oluyede be confirmed as Chief of Army Staff,” he said.

Kalu then asked, “Carried?,” to which lawmakers present responded: carried.

The report noted that: “The nominee (Gen Oluyede) reiterated his vast experience in war and negotiation skills having served in critical war zones. He informed the ad-hoc committee that he was exposed to war situation similar to what exists in Nigeria today and pledged to bring all these experiences to bear in the performance of his duties when confirmed as the Chief of Army Staff.

“Other areas covered during the screening include his strategic security knowledge and vision; funding; war on terror, insurgency and banditry; health and welfare of soldiers; military equipment and upgrade of security architecture.

The report stated key priorities, including accountability and transparency in the management of public resources, internal security, recruitment, training and retraining of personnel, media relations, and discipline within the Army.

General Oluyede was earlier appointed as the Acting Chief of Army Staff following the death of General Taoreed Lagbaja.