Tinubu’s financial inclusion key to economy growth – Adviser
Dr Nurudeen Abubakar Zauro, Technical Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Economic and Financial Inclusion, has expressed confidence in the Tinubu administration’s focus on financial inclusion as a key driver of Nigeria’s economic growth. Speaking at a global virtual town hall meeting, titled ‘Renewing the Hope of Nigerians through Economic and Financial Inclusion’, hosted by J.K. Adebola and monitored by The New Daily Prime, Zauro praised President Tinubu’s understanding of the financial system and the strategic steps being taken to address the country’s economic challenges. He explained that the Tinubu-led administration has made financial inclusion a central part of its ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda. The goal is to expand access to formal financial services for a broader segment of the population. Read Also: Tinubu calls for reforms in international financial architecture. Read Also: Nigeria’s foreign reserves up by $2.35bn in 7 months – Finance Minister. “With this administration, there are many issues at hand, but this is the first time we have a president who truly understands the economy and the financial system,” Zauro said. “He is determined to deliver real benefits to Nigerians.” Zauro emphasised that the administration’s efforts focus on boosting economic and financial inclusion through a range of initiatives. “We are working hard to restore Nigeria’s position as the leader of Africa and a key player in the global economy.” Since Nigeria’s first National Financial Inclusion Strategy was launched in 2012, the country has achieved 80% inclusion, but 20% of the population remains excluded. However, with new policy reforms, the government is now aiming for 95% financial inclusion by 2024. Zauro pointed out that financial inclusion goes beyond simply opening bank accounts. It also involves encouraging the use of services such as savings, credit, insurance, and pensions. Recent innovations like agency banking and mobile technology have helped make these services more accessible, especially in rural areas. The government’s focus, he added, is on making financial products affordable and sustainable, which will contribute to long-term economic growth. “The renewed hope agenda puts economic and financial inclusion at its core,” Zauro said. He highlighted that the administration has been able to provide access to formal financial services for the poor and vulnerable, ensuring that all Nigerians who are economically active can benefit from these services. While Nigeria has made progress since 2012, Zauro acknowledged that challenges remain. Efforts are ongoing, particularly in addressing regional disparities, with northern Nigeria still facing high levels of financial exclusion. In closing, Zauro stressed that non-interest financial services, tailored to respect cultural and religious sensitivities, are also being prioritised. The administration is focused on building a more inclusive financial system, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are vital for economic growth. Although full financial inclusion has not yet been achieved, Zauro remains confident that the steps taken by the Tinubu administration are positioning Nigeria as a leader in both Africa and the global economy By Dr. Vincent Ajayi & Friday Omosola
BBN: Kellyrae Wins BBNaija
The popular reality TV show, BBnaija has announced its winner for the season 9 “No Loose Guard” season. Kellyrae, a 34-year-old professional singer from Sapele, Delta State, has emerged as the winner of Big Brother Naija’s “No Loose Guard” season. The highly anticipated finale saw Kellyrae claim the grand prize of N100 million, capping off an electrifying and competitive journey that captivated millions across Nigeria and beyond. Kellyrae’s journey to victory was marked by his charisma, intelligence, and strategic gameplay, which quickly made him a fan favourite. However, throughout the season, his ability to connect with both housemates and viewers alike set him apart, and he displayed resilience in navigating the complex dynamics of the Big Brother house. His performance in the game was not just about entertainment; it showcased a strong understanding of human interaction and tactical decision-making, solidifying his place as a deserving champion. The ninth season of Big Brother Naija, which premiered on July 28, 2024, featured 28 housemates from diverse backgrounds, all competing for the coveted grand prize. The “No Loose Guard” season was particularly intense, with housemates pushing boundaries, forming alliances, and participating in various tasks designed to test their endurance, intelligence, and adaptability. The show garnered widespread attention, with fans discussing every twist and turn on social media, making it one of the most talked-about seasons in BBNaija history. In the gripping finale, Kellyrae edged out fellow housemate Wanni, who became the first runner-up. Wanni, another fan favourite, put up a strong fight, but Kellyrae’s consistent performance and widespread support ultimately led to his victory. As the newest member of the BBNaija winners’ circle, Kellyrae joins a distinguished list of past champions, further cementing his place in Nigerian entertainment history. Fans and celebrities alike took to social media to celebrate his win, with many expressing excitement for what lies ahead for the talented singer.
Yet another actor, Jerry Amilo loses daughter
Within a space of 24 hours, another death has been reported in the nation’s film industry, also called Nollywood. Veteran actor, Jerry Amilo has reportedly his daughter to the relentless grip of death. The Nollywood legend, recognized for his tenacity in his performances and personal life, expressed his profound sorrow on his Instagram account, revealing a loss that has irrevocably altered his existence. This devastating news came at a time when the Nollywood community is already reeling from the recent loss experienced by Saidi Balogun, who is mourning the death of his cherished daughter, Zeenat. In his emotional tribute, Jerry implored God to bestow eternal peace upon his “angel,” yet he refrained from disclosing specific details regarding the identity of the deceased or the circumstances surrounding her passing. This lack of information only intensified the sorrow enveloping his post, prompting his followers to inundate the comments with urgent inquiries. Many sought clarity on the nature of this tragedy, while others, seemingly aware of the heartbreaking news, confirmed that it was his eldest daughter, Princess, who had tragically died.
Verydarkman calls out woman who got pregnant for him
Controversial activist, Martin Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has called out a woman for getting pregnant despite his warnings to take precautionary measures. He shared his frustration on Instagram, revealing that they had been intimate and that he had provided her with money to purchase contraceptives to avoid pregnancy. Despite his efforts, the woman contacted him months later, informing him that she was pregnant with his child. Expressing his disappointment, Verydarkman stated that he was not mentally prepared to become a father and felt the situation was unfair to him. He further argued that the woman’s actions could be seen as deceptive, suggesting that, while they didn’t have a formal agreement, what she did was morally wrong. He lamented the situation, emphasizing how unprepared he is for the responsibility of fatherhood and the impact it has on his mental state. Verydarkman’s post has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some sympathizing with his situation, while others believe that both parties share responsibility for the outcome. The incident raises important discussions about consent, responsibility, and communication in relationships, highlighting the consequences of neglecting proper precautionary measures in sexual encounters. Ultimately, the activist continues to express his displeasure over the unexpected turn of events and its implications on his life.
Manchester United suffer worst start in history in Premier League season
The Red Devils played out a 0-0 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon, meaning they have picked up just eight points from their opening seven league matches this campaign. That is their worst-ever tally since the Premier League began in 1992, with Erik ten Hag breaking his own record after amassing just nine points in the first seven league games last year. They are now 14th in the Premier League table, five points clear of the relegation zone and six points behind Chelsea in fourth place. Furthermore, Man Utd have scored just five league goals so far in 2024-25, with only Southampton (four) scoring fewer. The Red Devils are also winless in their last five matches in all competitions, while they have only recorded 10 victories in 26 games since the start of March. Erik ten Hag is under immense pressure and could be sacked during the upcoming October international break.Ruud van Nistelrooy is the favourite to replace the current Man Utd boss and there are talks that he is set to take over by 2026 at the latest.
Pogba and Juventus set to part ways
Italian giants Juventus and French midfielder Paul Pogba are in the process of mutually terminating his contract, Fabrizio Romano reports. The Frenchman recently saw his four-year doping ban significantly reduced to 18 months, making him eligible to play as early as March 2025.The former Manchester United man tested positive for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a substance used to raise testosterone levels and is banned. He was tested in August 2023 following a victory by the Old Lady over Udinese and was handed a four-year ban after a second test was returned positive. However, Pogba has been cleared to make an early return after the Court of Arbitration for Sport made a ruling reducing his ban from four years to just 18 months. The World Cup winner will return to training in January before being match-eligible in March. Notwithstanding, he and Juve are set to terminate his contract, ending any possibility of him returning to action for the Bianconeri in March. Italian journalist and transfer expert Romano wrote on his X page, “Paul Pogba and Juventus, expected to agree on contract termination as he will become a free agent.“Talks to follow from tomorrow after CAS verdict, as Paul will be available from March.“Paul Pogba also feels a fresh start would be [the] best solution for him and his career.”Since the news of the CAS ruling broke, Pogba has reportedly become a target for MLS clubs. There are also interests from the Saudi Pro League existing before his drug test.
Haiti gang massacre leaves 70 dead, 6,000 displaced
Recent gangland madness has turned Haiti streets into killing fields. Gang members carrying automatic rifles stormed through Pont-Sonde, in the agricultural region of Artibonite in western Haiti, killing at least 70 people and forcing over 6,000 to flee. The upheaval continued with more people severely injured in the attack in the early hours of Thursday, October 3. According to the U.N. migration agency, about 6,270 people had fled their homes due to the attacks. It said most of these are being sheltered by families living in nearby Saint-Marc and other towns, while others are staying in makeshift camps. Meanwhile, Gran Grif gang leader, Luckson Elan took responsibility for the massacre, saying it was in retaliation for civilians remaining passive while police and vigilante groups killed his soldiers. A video shared online shows pedestrians running for dear lives alongside bike riders who were also trying to escape. The gang members set fire to dozens of homes and vehicles, local authorities said. Reacting to the tragic incident, Prime Minister Garry Conille said on X, “This odious crime against defenceless women, men, and children is not only an attack against victims but against the entire Haitian nation,” adding that security forces were reinforcing the area. Also, a spokesperson for Haiti’s national police told Reuters on Friday evening, that the director of police in charge of the Artibonite department had been replaced. “For now, reinforcements are at the location to contain the situation, and security forces are in control,” the spokesperson said. “The gang did not meet any resistance,” Bertide Horace, a spokesperson from the Dialogue and Reconciliation Commission to Save the Artibonite Valley said, adding that police officers remained in their station, perhaps thinking they would be outgunned by the gang members. Many victims were shot in the head as gang members went house to house, Horace said. “They were left to shoot anybody, everybody was running everywhere. They were walking, shooting people, killing people, burning people, burning homes, burning cars,” he said. Rights organization, RNDDH said the death toll was likely higher as entire families had been wiped out. “At the time of writing, corpses are strewn on the ground as their loved ones have not yet been able to recover them,” it said in a report.
Hezbollah senior leader, Hashem Safieddine feared dead after Israeli air strike
Senior Hezbollah figure, Hashem Safieddine, who was seen as a possible successor to the slain leader, Hassan Nasrallah, has been missing since Friday after an Israeli air strike on Beirut’s Dahiyeh neighbourhood, a Lebanese security source told Al Jazeera. Hezbollah sources said an intense search for the senior leader has yielded nothing, raising fears he might be dead. As the chairman of the armed group’s Executive Council, Safieddine is a very high-ranking member of the organization. He is a cousin of the late Nasrallah, the former secretary-general, said Al Jazeera’s Dorsa Jabbari, reporting from Beirut. Jabbari said there was a “sense of urgency” from Lebanese and Hezbollah officials to allow rescue teams in the area to retrieve bodies from the attack on Friday morning. She added that most Hezbollah commanders are “shadowy”, with Safieddine’s name only coming to light after many believed that he would possibly succeed Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli air strike last month, as Hezbollah’s secretary-general. “Now, with the possibility of him also being assassinated, it leaves in question the issue of succession within the organization,” Jabbari explained. Meanwhile, Hezbollah’s media office has issued a statement saying reports citing sources within the group regarding “the fate of Hezbollah officials” are “worthless rumors.” The group stressed that only statements issued by their media office are valid. Hezbollah’s comments came after media organizations, including Al Jazeera, cited security sources within the group saying that it had lost contact with Safieddine. It was not clear whether the group was referring to this report. But the lack of contact with Safieddine also proves that there is an intelligence breach within the group, “allowing Israel to locate and attack one leader after another,” Al Jazeera political analyst Marwan Bishara said. Nader Hashemi, associate professor of Middle East and Islamic Politics at Georgetown University, says losing contact with Nasrallah’s successor is “another serious and significant setback for Hezbollah.” “The wording that they’ve lost contact with him is an attempt to prepare Hezbollah supporters with the coming announcement that he has been confirmed dead,” he told Al Jazeera from Ottawa, Canada. On Friday, the Reuters news agency reported that Israeli Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani said the military was still assessing the aftermath of the air strike, which he confirmed targeted Hezbollah’s intelligence headquarters. Hezbollah has not officially commented on the status of Safieddine since the attack. Israel launched an intense bombing campaign across Lebanon two weeks ago, as it turned focus to its northern border after a year of cross-border exchanges that forced thousands of civilians to flee from both sides of the border. Israel aims to secure the safe return of its nationals to their homes in northern Israel as it pounds Hezbollah positions. Last week, Israel launched a “limited ground operation” into southern Lebanon while intensifying air strikes in the area and Beirut’s southern suburbs. The Associated Press reported, citing the Israeli military, that nine soldiers have so far been killed in ground clashes with Hezbollah fighters. According to Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health, more than 2,000 people have been killed during Israel’s intense bombardment on the country and forced 1.2 million people to flee their homes.
MultiChoice Revamps SuperSport Channels
MultiChoice Nigeria, the leading pay-TV service provider, has announced a significant revamp of its SuperSport variety channels on its GOtv platform. This major upgrade, set to take effect on October 9, aims to deliver an enhanced sports viewing experience to customers, offering broader access to a wider range of sporting events. As part of the changes, the SuperSport Select Channels will be rebranded to SuperSport Africa, and an entirely new channel, SuperSport Action, will be introduced. This new channel lineup is designed to enrich customers’ sports experience by featuring diverse live events, including UFC matches and more UEFA Champions League games, among others. The revamp is expected to breathe new life into the sports content available on GOtv, creating a more dynamic and enjoyable experience for sports enthusiasts. According to PM News Nigeria. The executive Head of Marketing at MultiChoice West Africa, Tope Oshunkeye brought out the motive behind the revamp, defining it as a step forward in the company’s commitment to improving the value offered to its customers. In his statement, Oshunkeye emphasized that the new channels will deliver a vibrant mix of sports action, including highlights, replays of important games, and live coverage of events like local boxing and UFC matches. These offerings are tailored to meet the tastes and preferences of African viewers, while still offering high-quality international sports content. “The channel revamp is part of our ongoing efforts to enhance our sports offering and provide our customers with more unbeatable sports content that resonates with them. The new channels will feature the latest sports action from across the globe, but with a focus on content specifically tailored for the African viewer,” Oshunkeye explained. He furthermore, noted that the revamp was designed to give viewers access to a broader variety of content, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, from football lovers to fans of combat sports and beyond. As part of this upgrade, specific changes will be rolled out across various GOtv packages. The SuperSport Africa channel will replace SuperSport Select 2 (Channel 64) on the GOtv Jinja and GOtv Jolli packages, ensuring that viewers on these more affordable tiers also benefit from the enhanced sports offering. On the GOtv Max package, SuperSport Africa and SuperSport Africa 2 will replace Select 1 and Select 2 (Channels 63 and 64), bringing more content and variety to customers on this plan. The GOtv Supa and SupaPlus packages will also experience changes, with SuperSport Africa, SuperSport Africa 2, and SuperSport Action replacing Select 1, Select 2, and Select 3 (Channel 69), respectively. These premium-tier packages will offer customers even more access to top-tier sports content, ensuring that GOtv remains a top choice for sports fans across Nigeria. The revamp is part of MultiChoice’s broader strategy to continually innovate and improve its product offerings. The company remains committed to delivering world-class entertainment experiences to its customers, ensuring that they receive excellent value for money. By adding more sports content and refining the viewing experience, MultiChoice is taking steps to maintain its leadership in the pay-TV market and meet the evolving demands of its audience. With the revamped SuperSport channels, viewers can look forward to more comprehensive sports coverage, ranging from live events to in-depth analysis, ensuring that they never miss out on the excitement of their favourite games.
UPDATED: Fubara swears in new Rivers council chairmen
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has sworn in the newly-elected chairmen of the 23 local government areas, following their victories in Saturday’s Local Government Council elections. The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Port Harcourt on Sunday, saw 22 chairmen from the Action Peoples Party (APP) and one from the Action Alliance officially inaugurated into office. After the electoral process, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) declared the APP victorious in 22 local government areas, while the Action Alliance secured one chairmanship seat. Governor Fubara, while addressing the new chairmen, congratulated them on their electoral victories. Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed was among notable dignitaries who graced the event.
