Author: Friday Omosola

The Federal Government (FG) has taken decisive steps to accelerate the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria. The steps led to the establishing a committee to interface with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and improve access to financing for small businesses. This was a key resolution from the first meeting of the National Council on MSMEs for 2025, held yesterday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chaired the meeting, eemphasised he government’s commitment to supporting MSMEs, recognising their critical role in job creation and economic development. He highlighted the administration’s responsibility,…

The Senate has revised portions of the 2025 Appropriations Bill after detecting discrepancies in allocations following its passage by both chambers of the National Assembly last Thursday. The inconsistencies were identified during the final review conducted by the Joint Committee on Appropriations, prompting necessary adjustments in recurrent spending, pensions, and capital projects. The allocation for the Ministry of Defence was reduced from ₦2.51 trillion to ₦2.49 trillion, while the budget for the Ministry of Police Affairs was adjusted slightly from ₦1.225 trillion to ₦1.224 trillion. In the pensions sector, significant increases were made to accommodate additional financial commitments. READ ALSO:…

Elder statesman and leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Edwin Clark is dead.  Prof. C. C. Clark, a family representative, announced this on Tuesday in an official statement. Clark passed away at the age of 97. The former Federal Commissioner for Information was a prominent advocate for the South-South region and a key figure in Nigeria’s political landscape. The statement read, “The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON on Monday, 17th February 2025. “The family appreciates your prayers at this time. Other…

The Nigeria Police has condemned the recent outbreak of violence in Osun State, which has led to the destruction of property and the tragic loss of innocent lives.  In response, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun ordered the deployment of additional tactical squads to restore order and security in the state. In a statement released yesterday by police spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the IGP emphasised that the police would not tolerate any acts of lawlessness, hooliganism, or anarchy.  Egbetokun reaffirmed the commitment of police to identifying and prosecuting all those responsible for the unrest, ensuring they face the full…

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) have reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating in the fight against corruption. This commitment made during a visit by EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, to the CAC Registrar-General and CEO, Ishaq Magaji aimed to foster economic growth and create a more transparent business environment. Olukoyede expressed appreciation to the CAC management and staff for their prompt responses and support in assisting the EFCC’s operations. READ ALSO: NCYP urges EFCC to monitor local govt funds He emphasised that both agencies are working towards their mandates in the interest of the…

Since January 13, 2025, the Lagos State House of Assembly has been embroiled in intense drama, beginning with the abrupt removal of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. Political analysts speculated that the removal was linked to Obasa’s ambition to succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, though this remains unconfirmed. Despite the uncertainties surrounding the reasons for his ouster, Obasa’s removal while he was away has dramatically reshaped Lagos’ political landscape, sparking widespread debates on governance, accountability, and security. As each new development unfolds, the situation continues to captivate the attention of both the public and political analysts, shedding light on the evolving power dynamics…

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has directed residents, including politicians across political divides, to stay away from the local government secretariats to protect public properties and avoid further bloodshed. On Monday, The New Daily Prime gathered that Remi Abass, the allegedly reinstated Chairman of Irewole Local Government in Osun State, was reportedly murdered by armed thugs believed to be loyal to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after they took control of the council’s secretariat in Ikire. This follows a dispute between the two major political parties over control of the local government, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) asserting…

The United States (US) has finalized plans to repatriate 201 Nigerians, including individuals with criminal records and those residing in the country without proper documentation.   This move is part of a broader immigration enforcement effort under President Donald Trump’s administration. The US government cited violations of immigration laws and criminal records as reasons for the deportation. During a meeting with US Ambassador Richard Mills at Tafawa Balewa House in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, addressed concerns over the impending deportation. READ ALSO: Three Nigerians win election in US, Australia The minister stated that those being…

A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted former Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke permission to amend her legal challenge against the final forfeiture of her assets. The New Daily Prime reported that Alison-Madueke was previously ordered by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Justice Inyang Ekwo approved the request on Monday after Alison-Madueke’s lawyer, Godwin Inyinbor, moved the motion, which was unopposed by EFCC’s counsel, Divine Oguru. During the hearing, Inyinbor informed the court that they had already submitted the amendment request and duly served the defendant. With no objection from the EFCC, Justice Ekwo ruled in favor of…

Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a prominent leader of Afenifere. The New Daily Prime earlier that Adebanjo died on Friday at the age of 96.  The Vice President in his tribute described Adebanjo as a steadfast advocate for a more equitable and progressive Nigeria. Reflecting on Adebanjo’s immense contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, he highlighted his role as Organizing Secretary of the Action Group and his leadership in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) during the military era. The Vice President emphasised that Adebanjo’s life was marked by his unwavering commitment…