Kwara organizes workshop to boost entrepreneurs’ access to credit
The Kwara State Ease of Doing Business Council (EODBC) has organized a workshop to boost entrepreneur and investor access to credit facilities within the state for developing businesses. The aim of the one-day training held on Friday was to strengthen their businesses, build a strong network for exports, and better manage their portfolios for growth. The training exercise is titled “Access to Credit for Investors in Kwara State.” Key areas covered by speakers include streamlining the export certification process for investors; unlocking credit opportunities to empower investors with the financial tools they need; and managing debt and ensuring long-term financial sustainability. During the training session, the Commissioner of Finance and Chairman of EODBC, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, stressed that the aim of the workshop is to help entrepreneurs gain access to grow, innovate, and compete effectively in their businesses. Babatunde Toyin Abdulrasheed, the Press Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, said Dr. Nuru noted that the state government has a focus on making business easier in the state via processes. Among others are reduction of bureaucratic bottlenecks and prioritising access to credit towards building a steady business ecosystem. Significant lecturers at the training ground are Dr. Ayinde Salihu Mosadi from the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, Kwara State Coordinating Unit; Oluremi Agboola; and Nnenna Jacob-Ogogo from First City Monument Bank (FCMB), among others. Dr. Nuru described the discussions as both timely and crucial for achieving a shared vision of transforming Kwara into an economic hub. She praised the state government and Council members for their relentless efforts in creating a business-friendly environment that enables enterprises to thrive and contribute significantly to the state’s development. In his presentation, Dr. Mosadi highlighted that the state government’s ease of doing business policy has the potential to enhance the volume of exported products from the state. He revealed that Kwara currently has 487 registered exporters but emphasised the need for increased activity among them to achieve better outcomes. He encouraged business owners to register with the NEPC for a fee of thirteen thousand naira (N13,000), noting that this step could boost product visibility and access to international markets. Financial experts Agboola, Jacob-Ogogo, and Oyebangbose outlined various opportunities their banks provide to support entrepreneurs in growing their businesses and promoting financial inclusion. Oyebangbose specifically advised business owners to only borrow amounts aligned with their business needs and to avoid misusing the funds for purposes other than their intended use. Key figures at the training workshop were the Commissioner of Finance and Chairman of EODBC, Dr. Hauwa Nuru; Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hon. Olohuntoyisi Thomas; Commissioner for Business Innovation and Technology, Hon. Damilola Yusuf Adelodun; and others. Participants at the event expressed gratitude to the government for organizing the workshop. They urged the Nigeria Export Promotion Council to intensify advocacy efforts to raise awareness about its operations and called on financial institutions to simplify the process of obtaining business loans to better support entrepreneurs.
Relocation: Wike queries inflated list
…Threatens to arrest fraudulent traders in Apo mechanic village The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has queried the inflated list and has threatened to arrest individuals involved in fraudulent activities during the relocation of traders from the Apo Mechanic Village to Wasa. Speaking at a meeting aimed at updating traders on the enumeration process, the minister condemned those collecting excessive fees from unsuspecting traders, stating, “Individuals collecting amounts ranging from N600,000 to N1 million under false pretences will be handed over to security agencies.” Represented by the Coordinator, Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), Felix Obih, the Minister clarified that the approved fee for land registration is N300,000, emphasizing that, “Many individuals are exploiting this situation for fraud, charging over N650,000 while the government only collects N300,000. People are desperate, which is why I’m here to clarify our actions. I will ensure transparency throughout the process, and the names of those allocated shops will be made public.” He also warned that those not trading along designated corridors would not be eligible for relocation. According to the minister, 11,000 individuals have so far registered for the relocation exercise of traders on the road corridor along APO mechanics village to Wasa District. Coordinator, who stood in for the minister acknowledged significant challenges in managing the relocation process. He revealed that over 45,000 names had initially been submitted by various unions, which he described as inflated. He said this discrepancy prompted the council to conduct physical enumerations of the affected traders. “The purpose of this meeting was to update stakeholders on our progress in relocating them to Wasa,” he explained. “We invited heads of associations to discuss how far we’ve come, the importance of the enumeration process, and the number of individuals who have paid.” He emphasized that the registration forms are strictly for those operating within designated road corridors and buffer zones, stating, “These forms are not intended for individuals not trading along the corridor.” The AMMC coordinator stated that the relocation exercise is expected to be completed by the end of the month. He stressed that the plan to relocate traders, who have faced various setbacks for the past 25 years, will be finalised under Wike’s administration, with the names of those allocated shops made available for public scrutiny.He referenced a recent report from the Brekete Family news, where traders expressed their relief and pleaded for permission to proceed with payments. Addressing concerns about nepotism, he reassured them that there are no allocations being made to government officials or their relatives, clarifying, “Not a single shop has been given out in that manner, and the Minister is not involved in this process.” The relocation plan aims to address long-standing issues faced by traders obstructing road corridors. “This has been a struggle for over 15 years,” Obih remarked. He affirmed that the administration is committed to concluding the relocation before the month’s end, ensuring it benefits genuine traders and artisans.
Herdsmen kill three Enugu farmers in fresh attacks
Tension has gripped the Mgbuji community in Eha-Amufu, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State, following a violent attack by armed herdsmen on Friday, News360 Nigeria reports. The assault claimed the lives of three farmers, left several others injured, and caused extensive damage to rice farms awaiting harvest. Shocking photo from the scene showed one victim slaughtered in his rice field, a basket of freshly harvested cassava nearby. The attack is part of a recurring crisis in Eha-Amufu, where between 2017 and 2022, suspected Fulani militias reportedly destroyed over 20 farm settlements and killed at least 123 residents. Ogenyi Odoh, a community leader, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence. Speaking with SaharaReporters, he decried the killing of the farmers and the destruction of farmlands, emphasizing that attacks on rice farms have been ongoing for two weeks. Further complicating the crisis, injured victims seeking medical help have been turned away by the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUT Parklane) due to an ongoing workers’ strike. Odoh also revealed that soldiers previously deployed to strategic locations in Eha-Amufu had been withdrawn without explanation, leaving the community vulnerable to renewed attacks. He has called on both the federal and state governments to urgently address the situation and restore security to the area. He said, “Today three people who went to their farms were killed in a most savagery brutality. What is their offence? They went to their farms and while they were in their farms, herdsmen entered the farms and start eating it. They were asked to leave and the next thing was to kill them. As you can see in one of the video clips, the man was killed in his rice farm. “You can also see in the video the large rice farm that Fulani herdsmen maliciously destroyed after four months hard work. “Is there a conspiracy, otherwise, how come after the Nigerian Army withdrew soldiers deployed to Eha-Amufu prior to the election and attacks and killings resumed?” He added, “Only about six soldiers are in entire Eha-Amufu with 100s of kilometers border with Benue State. Our vigilantes are working but there is not much they can do. The herders are armed with AK-47 rifles with several loaded magazines. “The man they (herders) butchered that was brought to Parklane hospital was rejected. As we speak doctors are battling to save him at a private hospital where a whooping N3 million was demanded before even commencing treatment. So, you can see the severity.” Meanwhile, efforts to speak with the Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, Daniel Ndukwe were unsuccessful as he did not take his calls.
Canada, Italy, Netherlands to enforce ICC arrest warrant against Netanyahu
Italy, the Netherlands, and Canada have announced that they would comply with the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. The ICC issued the warrants on Thursday, accusing Netanyahu and Gallant of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the war in Gaza. A warrant was also issued for Mohammed Deif, the military chief of the Palestinian resistance group, Hamas. According to Turkish Newspaper, Daily Sabah, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto stated that Italy would be obliged to arrest Netanyahu if he visited. Speaking on RAI’s Porta a Porta program, Crosetto said he disagreed with equating Netanyahu and Gallant with Hamas but acknowledged Italy’s obligation as an ICC member to act on the warrants. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani echoed support for the ICC while emphasizing that its role must remain legal, not political. Tajani added that Italy would consult with allies on how to proceed. This marks the first time a sitting leader from a major Western country has been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity by an international tribunal. The ICC panel alleged Netanyahu and Gallant are responsible for war crimes, including starvation, and crimes against humanity such as murder, persecution, and inhumane acts. The war in Gaza has caused widespread devastation, displacing nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents and leaving most reliant on aid. Over 44,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, have been killed during the conflict, according to local health authorities. The war began after Hamas launched a cross-border attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, killing approximately 1,200 people. Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp confirmed that the Netherlands would arrest Netanyahu if he entered Dutch territory. He emphasized that the government would fully comply with the ICC, as mandated by the Rome Statute. The EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell described the arrest warrants as legal, not political, and binding for all EU member states. Speaking in Jordan, Borrell urged an end to the tragedy in Gaza, stressing that the ICC’s decision must be respected and implemented. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also affirmed Canada’s support for the ICC warrants, stating that Canada, as a founding member of the ICC, would uphold international law. Addressing reporters near Toronto, Trudeau confirmed that Canada would comply with the ICC rulings and reiterated the need for a ceasefire and a two-state solution. He also called for the release of hostages and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) praised Trudeau’s statement, calling it a significant step toward justice for Gaza and Palestine. “This means, in theory, that Netanyahu and Gallant could be arrested if they entered Canada,” the NCCM said, emphasizing the importance of upholding international law and human rights.
Moniepoint Management visits Shettima
The Vice President, Kashim Shettima on Friday received the leadership team of @moniepointng, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Tosin Eniolorunda, on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa. The meeting highlighted @moniepointng’s remarkable achievements in the financial technology sector, its commitment to advancing financial inclusion, and its ongoing collaborations with law enforcement agencies to combat financial fraud. In his remarks, the Vice President congratulated the @moniepointng team on achieving unicorn status, lauding their innovative approach to leveraging technology to solve financial challenges. He acknowledged the company’s impressive growth trajectory, its workforce of over 3,000 employees, and its contribution to the country’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy. Other members of the delegation include, Babatunde Olofin, MD, Moniepoint MFB; @DidiUwem, VP, Corporate Affairs; Abdulmumin Tijjani, Regional Manager, North West; Efemena Ogie, Head of Partnerships; @RossStrike, SVP, InvInvestor Relationship and M&A and Ravi Sharma, Partner, @LightrockGlobal (Investors in Moniepoint).
Islamic militants kill 5 Wagner mercenaries in Mali ambush
At least five Russian Wagner mercenaries were killed on November 21 when a patrol was ambushed by militants from the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) near Djiguibombo, between Bandiagara and Bankass in the Mopti region. Zagazola understand that the ambush occurred along the strategic “Snake Road” and resulted in the loss of two light armoured vehicles, which were seized by the attackers. The JNIM has claimed responsibility for the assault, releasing graphic images and videos of the aftermath, further underscoring their operational presence in the area. Islamic militants kill 5 Wagner mercenaries in Mali ambush At least five Russian Wagner mercenaries were killed on November 21 when a patrol was ambushed by militants from the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) near Djiguibombo, between Bandiagara and Bankass in the Mopti region. Zagazola understand that the ambush occurred along the strategic “Snake Road” and resulted in the loss of two light armoured vehicles, which were seized by the attackers. The JNIM has claimed responsibility for the assault, releasing graphic images and videos of the aftermath, further underscoring their operational presence in the area.
Incredible story of Nigerian with 97 wives, 180 children
A Nigerian man has left many people in shock after marrying about 97 wives who have now given him over 180 children. He insists that he is healthy and can satisfy his wives. Bello Abubakar Masaba is an exceptional Nigerian man from Niger State. Masaba is popular because he has 97 wives and about 185 children. In an interview with a foreign newspaper, Masaba disclosed how he continues to write his name into the Guinness Book of Records, as Nigeria’s most prolific man, by marrying even more wives. How does Masaba satisfy his women sexually?The octogenarian ascribed his sexual power to the Unseen God, saying, ”In his wisdom, God has given me the power and strength to give them the sexual portion they need, he says. If I didn’t satisfy them, they would leave.” So far, Masaba’s record is unmatched by men in Nigeria. But his prowess in attracting women pales into a distant second to the polygamous record of King Lukengu of the Bakuba tribe in Congo. Meanwhile, Masaba has condemned reports making the rounds in some media that he is dead, saying “it is the work of my detractors.” The media had rumoured that Masaba, who had worked as a teacher and Imam, died after a brief sickness in Bida, Niger State but, the octogenarian, said the rumour was baseless, adding that “I’m neither sick nor dead.” He added, “My dear, I am very much alive, hale and hearty. The rumour is baseless. It is the work of my detractors because they are envious of what God is using me to do in the lives of the people. I am talking with you live and direct from my house in Bida. “What I am doing is divine. It is an assignment and I will keep doing it till the end of time. I just want to advise those fighting against me to stop because such people are waging war against God, their Creator.” Masaba had earlier married 107 women but later divorced 10 of them. Out of his 185 children, only 133 are still alive. Here is how The Los Angeles Times detailed Masaba’s story: “He fell in love with his first wife because she was sincere and eager to please. His second wife, a cousin, was irresistible because she did everything he wished and nothing he didn’t.” That alone made me love her. His third wife won him because she submitted to his every request. ”I saw her, I liked her. I went to her parents and asked for her hand in marriage,” he said. Wife No. 4 was very obedient. So was wife No. 5. Wife No. 6, the same. As were wives 7 and 8 and 9. Well, by then ”it was the late 1980s” things had taken off for Bello Masaba, an Islamic faith healer in this city (Bida) in Niger State. He went from a wedding every few months to one every few weeks. He begins with his family history, almost singing the story of his roots. After school, he led an ordinary life for 21 years, involved in the clothing business and later working for a sugar company, keeping just two wives. Life was normal until a religious vision in the 1970s, which he says involved a visit from the archangel Gabriel. He fell deeply ill, unable to eat or sleep for days, and all the medicine the doctors gave him only made him worse. He gave up work and became a traditional faith healer who eschewed medicine. The angel also instructed him to take wife after wife after wife. I get a revelation from God telling me any woman I’m going to marry. If it wasn’t from God, I wouldn’t have gone beyond two, he explains in a wispy, singsong voice. Masaba has to pause to remember the number of children he has: an ever-growing figure, with the youngest just 1 month old. He has fathered 185, and 133 are still living. He has acquired an extended family of some 5,000 people, many of whom live in the sprawling compound in the block surrounding his house. It takes three enormous sacks of rice a day and prodigious quantities of meat and vegetables to feed his enormous clan. He’s rich because of the handsome fees paid by those who come to be healed. Masaba’s many marriages underscore the gulf between modern urban Nigeria and traditional rural towns, where women often have few choices. Masaba is unyielding in his refusal to seek medical care, even if his wives or children are dying. When any died, I didn’t feel annoyed or upset, he says. I didn’t feel anything because it’s God who gave them to me and it’s God who takes them away. But when a child becomes ill, that can try a mother’s obedience. I told them not to go to hospital, Masaba says. They must report to me and pray. Some of my wives don’t have that confidence. They would take them to hospital behind my back. If anyone goes behind my back, the child will develop a swelling in the body and will eventually die. Some of the wives, wearing bright costumes of pink and blue, gold and yellow, meet visitors to the house in a white-tiled entry room, chorusing hellos. Others, surrounded by a clutch of children, cascade down a wooden staircase and peer curiously around a door. As Masaba talks, they are hidden within, listening to the squawking speakers, as the delicate question is finally posed. With so many wives, how does he meet their romantic needs? He smiles. Everyone asks him that. In his wisdom, God has given me the power and strength to give them the sexual portion they need, he says. If I didn’t satisfy them, they would leave. Then he stands up, and his aides rush to him, putting his white shoes on his feet and arranging his white costume.”
CAPPA: smoking-focused law could spike tobacco-related deaths in Nigeria
Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has warned House of Representatives that smoking-focused law could spike tobacco-related deaths in Nigeria. Presenting a memorandum on Friday to the Hon. Bassey Akiba-led House Committee on Healthcare Services in Abuja, CAPPA’s Zikorah Ibeh criticized the proposed National Tobacco Smoking Bill (HB 1151) as fundamentally flawed. The Guardian report noted that CAPPA pointed out that the Bill incorrectly refers to a non-existent “National Tobacco Smoking Act of 2015,” raising concerns about its credibility and understanding of tobacco control laws. If the intended reference is the National Tobacco Control Act (NTCA) 2015, CAPPA argued that the Bill’s narrow focus on “smoking” ignores other harmful tobacco products, including vapes, heated tobacco products, and other devices. Such an omission creates regulatory loopholes that could be exploited by the tobacco and vaping industries, leaving Nigerians vulnerable to emerging health threats. Conversely, CAPPA commended the lawmakers for HB 47, another proposed amendment to the NTCA, which seeks to address funding gaps and regulatory weaknesses. The amendment introduces new funding streams for the Tobacco Control Fund, including 40% of taxes and levies on tobacco products, fines for violations, and proceeds from forfeited assets. Additionally, HB 47 proposes mechanisms to ensure the Fund is effectively managed, with clear guidelines on allocation, regular audits, and public reporting to prevent mismanagement and advance public health goals. CAPPA emphasized that robust oversight and a comprehensive approach to all forms of tobacco use are essential to protect Nigerians from the health hazards associated with tobacco products.
Nigerian govt monitoring Simon Ekpa’s trial in Finland
The Nigerian Government has spoken on the arrest and trial of Simon Ekpa, the self styled Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile. Recall that Ekpa was arrested and remanded in prison on Thursday in Finland on suspicion of inciting terrorism and promoting violence. Reacting, FG said it is closely monitoring legal proceedings. Ekpa was taken into custody by Finnish authorities on Thursday, November 21, 2024. The Finnish District Court of Päijät-Häme decided to keep Ekpa detained on probable cause, citing his alleged role in inciting violence in southeastern Nigeria through the social media. In a statement issued on Friday by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Nigerian Government expressed its commitment to tracking the progress of Ekpa’s legal case. The government emphasized the significance of the proceedings in addressing the influence of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, and transnational actors on Nigeria’s national security. Previously, Nigerian authorities had applied diplomatic pressure on Finland to take action against Ekpa’s activities, which have been associated with violent incidents in Nigeria’s South-East region. According to the statement, the Nigerian Government will continue to provide further updates on the legal process as the case unfolds, and also ensure that Ekpa’s actions, which have contributed to unrest in Nigeria, are properly addressed under Finnish law. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to confirm the arrest of Mr Simon Njoku Ekpa, a Nigerian-Finnish citizen and prominent leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), by Finnish authorities on Thursday, November 21, 2024. “He was charged with inciting terrorism and promoting violence. The Finnish District Court of Päijät-Häme ruled to detain him on probable cause for publicly inciting crimes with terrorist intent. “The Ministry wishes to affirm that the arrest of Mr Simon Ekpa is a significant development in addressing the activities of IPOB, and also neutralising the influence of transnational actors and their impact on our national security. “The Ministry will continue to monitor the legal proceedings and provide further updates as the case progresses,” the statement read.
MSF urges govt-stakeholder collaboration to combat NOMA spread
The Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has called for collaborative efforts from government stakeholders to fight against the spread of NOMA disease in Sokoto State. Samuel Joseph, a health expert with MSF, said NOMA is a preventable condition. He urged the government and community leaders to prioritise hygiene awareness and improve living conditions to protect citizens from the disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NOMA is a severe gangrenous disease of the mouth and face. Children at age 2 to 6-year-old are majorly affected, and NOMA health conditions are predominantly found among those living in poor communities. Research has it that the African continent suffers most, although cases have also been reported in Asia, the Americas, and other regions. Speaking during the 10th Anniversary and 2024 NOMA Day commemoration at Sokoto, Guest Inn, Mr. Joseph underscored the importance of prevention as a more effective and cost-efficient approach compared to treatment. At the same event, Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, appealed to MSF to upgrade the NOMA hospital in Sokoto to international standards. Represented by Dr. Namadina Ibrahim, Special Adviser on Malaria Elimination, the governor described the hospital as the busiest of its kind in Nigeria, serving patients from Sokoto and neighbouring countries, including Niger, Mali, and Ghana. The governor highlighted the urgent need for expansion, stating that an upgraded facility would not only accommodate more patients but also provide specialised training for doctors treating NOMA. The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, also praised MSF’s contributions to fighting NOMA in the state. Represented by the District Head of Bodinga, Muhammad Bello, the Sultan pledged his support for efforts to make Sokoto a NOMA-free state and encouraged continued collaboration between MSF and the local government. During the programme, MSF showcased its impact in Sokoto, revealing that 1,467 major surgeries had been performed since the project’s inception.
