Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • REAL-TIME E-TRANSMISSION IN NIGERIA WITHOUT E-VOTING: CLARIFYING THE LAW, THE TECHNOLOGY, & THE MISCONCEPTIONS

    REAL-TIME E-TRANSMISSION IN NIGERIA WITHOUT E-VOTING: CLARIFYING THE LAW, THE TECHNOLOGY, & THE MISCONCEPTIONS

     

    (A Response to Senator Adegbomire & P. D. Pius)

    By Sylvester Udemezue

    *INTRODUCTION*

    Two recent public commentaries have reignited debate on electoral reform in Nigeria. P.D. Pius, Esq., in his article titled, _“Electronic Transmission of Results is Not a Magic Wand”_ (and published on 10 February 2026), argues that electronic transmission is over-emphasised and is easily manipulable. He appears to regard electronic transmission as conterminous with electronic voting. On his part, distinguished Senator Niyi Adegbonmire, SAN, is reported to have argued that real-time transmission of results can only happen where e-voting exists, and since Nigeria does not practice electronic voting, e-transmission cannot apply to Nigeria (see _‘“Real-Time Transmission Can Only Happen With Electronic Voting, Nigeria Doesn’t Have E-Voting” – Senator Adegbonmire SAN On Electoral Act’_(12 February 2026). With utmost respect to both distinguished colleagues, these positions appear to arise from a fundamental misunderstanding of what “real-time electronic transmission” means within Nigeria’s electoral framework. This commentary therefore clarifies the concept, explains the relevant legal and technological realities, and addresses the issues for the benefit of stakeholders and Nigerians.

    *WHAT “REAL-TIME ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION” ACTUALLY MEANS*

    According to most standard English dictionaries, the expression “real-time” simply means happening immediately as something occurs, occurring without delay, taking place instantly and simultaneously. Accordingly, “real-time electronic transmission” means the instant electronic sending or receiving of information at the very moment it is produced, without delay.

    *THE CRUCIAL QUESTION: TRANSMISSION OF WHAT?*

    In the Nigerian context, considering distinguished Senator Adegbomire’s declaration, a crucial question may be asked as to exactly what is expected to be transmitted since Nigeria does not practice e-voting. This is where most confusion begins. To properly and accurately answer this question, it is important to state that, contrary to the impression the respected Senator tried to create, different electoral systems transmit different things. In countries practicing electronic voting, real-time e-transmission refers to e-transmission of votes themselves, and automatic computation of results. However, Nigeria does NOT practice electronic voting. Accordingly, real-time transmission in Nigeria cannot logically refer to transmitting of votes. But this does not mean that “real-time” transmission does not and cannot apply in the Nigerian context.

    *HOW REAL-TIME E-TRANSMISSION APPLIES IN NIGERIA*

    In Nigeria, what the law provides for is very specific: real-time electronic transmission of scanned copies of the duly completed and endorsed Polling Unit Result Sheet (known as Form EC8A). This means that immediately after voting ends at the polling unit, votes are counted and announced. Form EC8A is completed, signed and duly stamped, as required by law. The Form is then scanned electronically at the polling unit, and uploaded instantly to INEC’s IReV portal before officials leave the polling unit.

    *FOUR ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF REAL-TIME E-TRANSMISSION IN THE NIGERIAN CONTEXT*

    In my humble opinion, for e-transmission in the Nigerian context to truly qualify as “real-time,” four conditions must coexist:

    1. *There must be transmission:* this means there must be some form of uploading or sending, or transfer.

    2. *The subject of what is transmitted must be specific:* What must be transmitted is a scanned copy of the duly completed and signed Form EC8A.

    3. *Transmission must be electronic:* This means that the transmission must occur digitally, not manually.

    4. *Transmission must be “real-time”:* This means that the e-transmission of the scanned copy of the duly completed and signed Form EC8A must be done instantly, directly from the polling unit, immediately after signing, and before officials leave the polling unit for the collation centre.

    *WHY THESE FOUR ELEMENTS ARE ESSENTIAL*

    The four elements set out above must co-exist in order to eliminate post-voting human interference. Once a scanned copy of the duly completed and signed Form EC8A (result sheet) is digitally uploaded and instantly from the polling unit, it becomes publicly verifiable, tampering (with the hard copy of Form EC8A submitted at the collation) becomes futile, and electoral fraud becomes extremely difficult to perpetuate anytime afterwards.

    *THREE DISTINCT MODELS OF E-TRANSMISSION EXIST WORLDWIDE*

    A major source of misunderstanding is failure to distinguish between different forms of electronic transmission. In my respectful opinion, there exist three principal global models of electronic transmission of election results.

    1. *MODEL ONE: Electronic Voting (e-Voting):* This is used in some countries (jurisdictions). Also, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has adopted it for its national officers’ elections. Basic features of this model include: (i) Votes are cast electronically; (ii) Results are generated automatically; and (iii) Transmission occurs simultaneously with voting. A major weakness of this model is that it is highly vulnerable/susceptible to hacking and coding manipulation. This is the system my learned friend, Mr. P. D. Pius mistook for to be the Nigerian model. Contrary to his supposition, Nigeria does NOT use this model.

    2. *MODEL TWO: Manual Voting Plus Direct Entry of Raw Figures:* Essential features: (i) Votes are counted manually; (ii) the figures are manually entered into a digital system (in the same way one composes an email or WhatsApp message); and (iii) the raw numbers are then transmitted (just as one sends an email or uploads a message to a WhatsApp platform). A major weakness is that manipulation may occur during manual data entry into the digital system, before upload. For example, actual results showing Party A = 540 and Party B = 670 could be altered during entry by a compromised polling official (unless closely monitored by independent observers) to Party A = 940 and Party B = 360. This model is used in some countries, such as Kenya.

    3. *Model Three: Upload of Scanned Result Sheets (Nigeria’s INEC Adopted Model):* This is Nigeria’s model. The process goes thus as provided in the Electoral Act, 2022: (i) Manual voting occurs at the polling unit; (ii) Votes are counted at the polling unit; (iii) Form EC8A is completed and signed at the polling unit; (iv) The form is scanned at the polling unit; and (v) The the scanned copy of Form EC8A is then digitally uploaded (e-transmitted) instantly to IReV (INEC’s online collation platform).

    *WHY THE NIGERIAN MODEL IS THE MOST SECURE*

    This model preserves physical evidence, ensures digital transparency, maintains multiple verification trails, and enhances public auditability. In sum, result manipulation becomes extremely difficult once polling officers leave the polling unit or at any time thereafter.

    *WHY VAGUE LEGAL WORDING CAN DEFEAT ELECTORAL INTEGRITY*

    I recently read a news report stating that a Senate Committee reportedly proposed that electronic transmission should occur “after Form EC8A has been signed and stamped.” The provision, as quoted in the report, reads: “The Presiding Officer shall electronically transmit the results from each polling unit to the IReV portal in real time, and such transmission shall be done after the prescribed Form EC8A has been signed and stamped by the Presiding Officer and/or countersigned by the candidates or polling agents available at the polling unit.” (See: _“How Three Southern Senators Blocked Real-Time Electronic Transmission of Election Results – Report,”_ published on 09 February 2026). With due respect, this wording is extremely and dangerously vague. Such a provision permits or envisages transmission (i) at the polling unit; or (ii) at collation centres; or (iii) outside the polling unit hours or days after the balloting. Thus, the law could be formally complied with and yet substantively abused. With due respect, real-time transmission will lose its meaning/essence if e-transmission can occur “after” results leave the polling unit. As I wrote earlier, the polling unit is the only stage in the electoral process where result sheet (Form EC8A) remains relatively protected from interference. Once Form EC8A leaves the polling unit, it becomes vulnerable to human discretion, logistical challenges, political pressure, and opacity. Therefore, if electronic transmission does not occur directly from the polling unit on election day and within the election time-frame, it loses its purpose. Transmission carried out after officials leave the polling unit, after manual collation has begun, or on a later date cannot prevent fraud; it merely digitizes a process that may already have been compromised.

    *POST-VOTING PROCEDURES UNDER THE ELECTORAL ACT*

    Under the Electoral Act, 2022, the requirement is that after voting ends at the polling unit, votes must be counted at the polling unit, and results must be announced publicly. Thereafter, and still at the polling unit, Form EC8A must be completed, signed, and stamped, and copies of the duly signed copy must be given to candidates or their agents immediately, after which the Form must be scanned, and the scanned copy immediately (in real time) e-transmitted to the iReV. A poster copy must be displayed at the polling unit. This stage marks the beginning of post-voting procedures, where real-time transmission logically belongs.

    *SPECIFIC RESPONSE TO ARGUMENTS BY P.D. PIUS, ESQ.*

    Two main claims were made by my learned friend, P.D Pius, Esq.:

    1. First, he argued that electoral reform should start from party primaries. With due respect to my learned friend, both reforms are necessary, and there is nothing wrong with the two aspects of reform proceeding simultaneously. Electoral credibility and transparency must never be made to wait if the integrity of the process must be secured.

    2. Second, my learned friend claims that electronic transmission is easier to rig. According to him, it may be far easier and cheaper to manipulate results through computer coding than to mobilize people to alter figures at ward level, something any technically knowledgeable person can confirm. With due respect, this claim is founded on a wrong premise; it conflates and confuses Nigeria’s model with electronic voting systems which Nigeria does not operate. Nigeria’s system only entails the transmission of the duly completed, signed and scanned result sheets (Form EC8A), not digital vote data. With due respect, manipulating the Nigerian system would require altering physical signed forms, multiple copies, publicly accessible records. And, this is far more difficult than manipulating manual collation, contrary to my learned friend’s claim.

    *CONCLUSION*

    From the foregoing, it is clear that (contrary to the learned Senator Adegbonmire’s claim) “real-time” electronic transmission of election results can effectively operate without e-voting under the Nigerian system. In Nigeria, “real-time” electronic transmission does not mean electronic voting; it means the instant electronic upload of duly completed, signed, and scanned polling-unit result sheet (Form EC8A) directly from the polling units to the iReV immediately after voting, before the Form (result sheet) is taken out of the polling unit. It is respectfully submitted that if made indispensable, this system would enhance transparency, credibility, electoral integrity, and public trust. The issue, therefore, is not technological feasibility but political will. As Kofi Annan rightly observed, “Elections are not just about who wins, but about the process by which the will of the people is expressed and respected.”

    *Post Scriptum:*
    The demand for real-time transmission is not partisan; it is a call for transparency, accountability, credibility, and democratic legitimacy. Nigeria would benefit from making it a strictly mandatory and non-negotiable legal requirement, with clear consequences, such that any election result not electronically transmitted in accordance with the law would be invalid. For the Nigerian model of electronic transmission to become mandatory, two steps are required: (a) the National Assembly must enact it into law, and (b) the Executive must assent to it. Ultimately, the choice is ours: either to embrace a new path toward electoral integrity or remain with practices that undermine credible democracy. As John C. Maxwell observed, life is defined by the choices we make, and we must be prepared to live with their consequences.

    (Respectfully,
    *Sylvester Udemezue (Udems)*
    (Member, NBA’s Law Reform Committee)
    08109024556, udemsyl@gmail.com.
    (12 February 2026))

  • Gov. Inuwa Yahaya Visits NMDPRA Chief Executive, Urges him to Sustain High Integrity on the National Assignment

    Gov. Inuwa Yahaya Visits NMDPRA Chief Executive, Urges him to Sustain High Integrity on the National Assignment

     

    By Iyiola Olalere

    Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has visited the Chief Executive officer (CEO), of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Saidu Aliyu Mohammed, at the Authority’s headquarters in Abuja.

    The visit was to identify with the NMDPRA helmsman following his recent appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and to reaffirm the Governor’s strong confidence in his capacity to provide effective leadership in one of the most strategic sectors of the nation’s economy.

    Governor Inuwa Yahaya described Engr. Mohammed as a worthy ambassador of Gombe State, whose remarkable rise in the oil and gas industry reflects years of exceptional technical competence and uncommon professionalism.

    He urged him to sustain the excellence, integrity and discipline for which he is widely respected, while delivering on the critical national mandate entrusted to him.

    “As an illustrious son of Gombe State, I encourage you to continue to project the values of diligence, integrity and service that define our people. I am confident that your depth of experience, industry insight and managerial acumen will translate into impactful reforms that will strengthen the midstream and downstream petroleum sectors, enhance energy security and contribute significantly to national economic growth,” the Governor stated.

    He also stressed the strategic importance of effective regulation in ensuring stability in petroleum supply, improving investor confidence and promoting sustainable development. He expressed optimism that NMDPRA, under Engr. Mohammed’s leadership, would record remarkable progress.

    In his response, Engr. Saidu Aliyu Mohammed thanked the Governor for the visit, describing it as a profound source of encouragement and motivation.

    He expressed deep appreciation for the Governor’s consistent support, fatherly counsel since his appointment as ACE as well as his exemplary leadership, which he said continue to inspire his commitment to public service.

    The NMDPRA Chief Executive assured the Governor of his commitment to professionalism, transparency and results-driven leadership, pledging to justify the confidence reposed in him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the people of Gombe State.

  • Prof. Ugwu heralds Gov. Mbah’s Healthcare, Other Developmental Programmes on International Forum

    Prof. Ugwu heralds Gov. Mbah’s Healthcare, Other Developmental Programmes on International Forum

    Prof. Ugwu heralds Gov. Mbah’s Healthcare, Other Developmental Programmes on International Forum
    Upon the invitation of  the Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds and supported by CHORUS Research on Urban Health, UK, and Health Policy Research Group, UNN, Enugu State Ministry of Health participated in an International Policy/Research Event held in Accra, Ghana recently.
    The Enugu State Ministry of Health team was led by Prof. George Ugwu, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Enugu State.
    It was a comprehensive review of existing knowledge, research evidence, and policy priorities on urban health, focusing on global practices and challenges.
    Prof. Ugwu informed the global audience of Gov. Peter Mbah’s remarkable achievements in healthcare and urban development, showcasing his visionary leadership in building robust healthcare infrastructure and transforming urban and rural health systems.
    “Gov. Mbah is constructing 260 new Type-2 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) across the 260 political wards in Enugu State, Nigeria, and upgrading existing facilities to provide quality healthcare services.
    “The modern Type-2 and Type-3 PHCs all over the state are standard facilities, offering comprehensive care, including Antenatal services, immunization of our children and handling basic illnesses and surgical care.
    “In addition to healthcare, Gov. Mbah is also addressing urban slums with global-standard infrastructure and modern urban planning, relocating residents to modern dwellings with amenities like paved roads, electricity, water and sports facilities.
    “The Agu-Owa and Ugbo-Lawrence slums are the pilot schemes, with 43 luxury housing units planned,” the Commissioner noted.
    He also informed the global audience that the initiatives were aimed at improving healthcare accessibility and living conditions for Enugu State residents.
    Ugwu, an erudite and popular Professor of Medicine, emphasised on how the establishment of 260 new Type-2 PHCs in Enugu State had generated employment opportunities for over 450 health workers, including nurses, midwives, Medical Laboratory Scientists, and pharmacists.
    “The recruitment drive aims to strengthen healthcare delivery across our state, and improving access to quality medical services for residents.
    “The efforts by the government of Enugu State is to enhance healthcare infrastructure and workforce capacity and are expected to boost healthcare outcomes, particularly in rural areas,” he said.
    He noted that the state had made significant steps to address the shortage of healthcare personnel by approving 2,200 Primary Healthcare Community Workers (PHCWs) to fill the 61.2 per cent shortage in the required 7,573 PHCWs.
    Several research works from Enugu State, Nigeria, were presented and discussed at the policy event to share experiences and learn from the insights of other participating countries.
    In one of the panel discussions, the Executive Secretary, Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ENSPHCDA), Dr. Ifeyinwa Ani-Osheku, explained how the application of electronic medical records and research is helping to improve PHC in Enugu State.
    Ani-Osheku also highlighted the launch of the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII), noting that research efforts have contributed to reducing maternal and child mortality and immunization myths in Enugu State.
    She further stressed the state’s progress in healthcare digitalisation and human resource development, among other key areas.
    The event brought together researchers, policy makers and medical professionals from United Kingdom, Nepal, Bangladesh, Ghana and Nigeria among others.

  • WMC Customs donates sports complex to Coconut-Apapa community

    The Zonal Coordinator Zone ‘A’, Of the Nigeria Customs Service, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Muhammed Babadede, a stakeholder the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi during inauguration of Wale Adeniyi Sport Arena (WASA) held on Wednesday in Lagos

     

    CSR: Customs Western Marine Command donates sporting facility to Lagos community

    CSR

     

     

    Lagos, February 11, 2026 Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Mr Bashir Adeniyi has inaugurated a sports complex donated by the Western Marine Command (WMC) of the Nigeria Customs Service to the Coconut-Apapa community in Lagos as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

    Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi and the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, during inauguration of Wale Adeniyi Sport Arena (WASA) held on Wednesday in Lagos

    The facility, named the Wale Adeniyi Sports Arena (WASA), is aimed at promoting youth development, discovering sporting talents and steering young people away from crime and social vices.

     

     

    Speaking at the inauguration, on Wednesday, Adeniyi said the project reflected Customs’ commitment to community engagement and youth empowerment.

     

    “It is my pleasure to be here to commission this sports arena constructed for our officers and men, as well as members of the host community.

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, playing table tennis with community member during inauguration of Wale Adeniyi Sport Arena (WASA) held on Wednesday in Lagos

    “Also, because of the nature of our job, we need to keep fit at all times. Our duties are demanding, and it is necessary that we strike a balance. I encourage all officers to take physical fitness seriously,” he said.

     

    Adeniyi urged officers and residents, including personnel within Zone ‘A’, to make maximum use of the facility to remain physically and mentally fit.

     

    Earlier, the Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, said the sports arena was dedicated in honour of the Comptroller-General in recognition of his diligence, professionalism and dedication to service.

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, playing basketball with professional team during inauguration of Wale Adeniyi Sport Arena (WASA) held on Wednesday in Lagos

    Ntadi described the project as more than just a recreational centre.

     

    “WASA is a practical expression of our belief that security is not only about enforcement, patrols and interceptions. It is also about prevention.

     

    “It is about giving our youths alternatives to crime, restiveness, drug abuse and other social vices.

     

    “When we provide safe and positive spaces for recreation, mentorship and healthy competition, we are investing in peace, stability and the future of our communities,” he added.

     

    According to him, the presence of the CGC at the inauguration underscores the importance the Nigeria Customs Service places on community development, youth empowerment and sustainable peace.

     

    “WASA is aimed at taking youths off the streets and into constructive engagement. It is built to become a centre of unity, growth and positive transformation, to nurture talents, inspire dreams and keep young people away from negative influences,” Ntadi stressed.

     

    He maintained that Customs’ CSR initiatives had created opportunities to positively impact lives in host communities.

     

    “The Comptroller-General is a shining example to us in the Service. Every controller now strives to contribute meaningfully through CSR initiatives that impact society,” he said.

     

    The inauguration attracted community members, traders and other stakeholders. Sporting activities including football, basketball and table tennis were staged to mark the event.

     

    Many traders and residents temporarily left their businesses to participate in or watch the games, turning the inauguration into a community celebration

  • Sachet alcohol has worsened binge drinking among youths — Group

    Sachet alcohol has worsened binge drinking among youths — Group

     

    (NAFDAC DIRECTOR GENERAL PROF MOJISOLA ADEYEYE)

     

    (Danger looming,  NAFDAC DIRECTOR GENERAL Warns as – Underaged children take to liquors)

     

     

     

    By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

    Ilorin:      The The Standard Bearers (SB) Islamic Organisation, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), on Thursday, warned that sachet alcohol has contributed to binge drinking among youths in the country.

    The warning followed the move by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to enforce the ban on alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and bottles below 200ml.

     

    A statement jointly signed by SB’s National Coordinator, Dr Nurudeen AbdulRaheem and the National Secretary, Malam Qaasim Adegbuyi, declared support for NAFDAC to ban sachet alcoholic drinks.

    AbdulRaheem observed that sachet alcohol, often sold for as little as ₦100, worsened binge drinking, youth addiction and community insecurity.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that binge drinking is the act of consuming multiple alcoholic drinks within two hours, which can cause physical and mental health problems, as well as legal issues.

    The coordinator, therefore, described the NAFDAC move as “a necessary public health intervention.”

    According to him, cheap, small-volume alcohol has made harmful drinking easy and common among young people and even minors.

    He added that “global health data shows that alcohol causes more than three million deaths annually and it is a major driver of road accidents, violence, liver disease and mental health disorders.”

    AbdulRaheem, who is also a Physician at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), acknowledged concerns from industry players, but stressed that “public health and the protection of young lives must come first.

    “The Islamic ethical values, like many shared societal values, emphasise the protection of life, intellect and family stability.

    “We urge NAFDAC and the Federal Government to remain firm while supporting affected businesses with transition plans.

    “This is a step toward a safer and healthier Nigeria.”

  • NAFDAC Lagos Office is Fully Open and Operating, as Agency Debunks Alleged Shutdown by Protesters

    NAFDAC Lagos Office is Fully Open and Operating, as Agency Debunks Alleged Shutdown by Protesters

     

    (NAFDAC Director General, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye)

     

    – Vows that enforcement of Ban on Sachet Alcohol would not be comprised by external intimidations or misinformation

    .

    (NAFDAC Lagos office, open and functioning)

    – NAFDAC remains fully committed to its mandate of safeguarding public health and will continue to enforce all regulatory measures, including the ban on sachet alcohol.

     

    By Biola Lawal
    Lagos (FLOWERBUDNEWS): The Lagos office of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) remains open and is operating with all staff performing their without interruptions.

     

    (NAFDAC DG, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye in action)

    NAFDAC made the declaration in a statement on in Lagos Thursday, describing a Vanguard publication claiming closure of its Lagos office as ”false and misleading.”

    ”We categorically state that this report is false and misleading,” NAFDAC stated, explaining;”
    protest, which occurred outside the NAFDAC premises, did not disrupt operations in any way.”

    (NAFDAC Headquarters in Abuja)

     

    ”Our offices remain fully open, and all staff are carrying out their duties without interruption. Normal activities are ongoing, and there has been no shutdown of any kind,” the Agency said further in the statement, a copy of which was made available to FLOWERBUDNEWS.

    NAFDAC remains fully committed to its mandate of safeguarding public health and will continue to enforce all regulatory measures, including the ban on sachet alcohol.

    ”Our offices remain fully open, and all staff are carrying out their duties without interruption. Normal activities are ongoing, and there has been no shutdown of any kind,” the Agency assured.

    (NAFDAC Operatives in action)

     

    The Agency assured Nigerians that it ”remains fully committed to its mandate of safeguarding public health and will continue to enforce all regulatory measures, including the ban on sachet alcohol.”

    NAFDAC warned that the ”enforcement of this (alcohol ) ban remains active, and will not be compromised by any external actions or misinformation.’:

    The Agency urged the public and media outlets to verify information before publication and to disregard any reports suggesting otherwise. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

     

  • Tinubu’s state visit to the UK shows Nigeria bouncing back to global reckoning, 37 years after last royal invitation – TMV

    Tinubu’s state visit to the UK shows Nigeria bouncing back to global reckoning, 37 years after last royal invitation – TMV

     

    A group, the Tinubu Media Volunteers (TMV) has applauded the invitation extended to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by the British Monarch, King Charles for a state visit as a turning point in Nigeria’s global acceptance and reckoning.

    It said in a statement signed by its Chairman Chukwudi Enekwechi and Secretary Segun Ogedengbe that coming after a thirty-seven-year lull, the royal invitation is a major boost.

    The statement reads in part: “We recall that the last time a Nigerian president was hosted by the British royals was in the last lap of the General Ibrahim Babangida’s transition to civil rule programme.

    “We believe that the latest invitation to President Tinubu is well merited considering the bold economic reforms and policies being implemented under the current administration.

    “There is also no doubt that the state visit coming on the heels of a similar state visit to Turkiye by President Tinubu is a clear demonstration that Nigeria is now gaining favourable global attention, especially as the President has through various policies made the world know that Nigeria is now open and ready for business.

    “Apart from the economic policies introduced by the present administration which are now attracting foreign investors in their numbers, the massive road infrastructural development stretching from Lagos-Calabar (coastal highway) and Badagry-Sokoto highway is meant to reposition Nigeria for economic development and foreign direct investments.

    “We are confident that the state visit will allow the United Kingdom and Nigeria to harness their bilateral relations for the benefit of the citizens of both countries.

    “There is also no doubt that the state visit will enhance trade and commerce, technology and many other areas of common interest, especially in opening up opportunities for more exports from Nigeria to the United Kingdom.

    “We also note that the visit will help boost Nigeria’s balance of trade with the United Kingdom which stood at Euro 8.1 billion in 2024-2025 with a trade surplus favouring the United Kingdom and help position Nigeria as an investment destination.”
    The group added that the state visit would provide an opportunity for Nigeria to seek more favourable trade deals with the United Kingdom, as well as canvass for more investments by British companies in the country.

     

    End

  • CSR: NCS intensifies community-based initiatives in Lagos, renovate another school in Ibeshe

    Pic 2.The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, cutting the ribbon during the inauguration the renovation of the whole premises of Methodist Primary School Ibeshe, Ikorodu, on Wednesday in Lagos

     

    CSR: NCS intensifies community-based initiatives in Lagos, renovates school in Ibeshe

     

     

    Lagos, February, 11, 2026, The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it is intensifying community-based Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in Lagos State’s schools.

     

    Pic 1.The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, at the back rejoicing with the pupils of Methodist Primary School Ibeshe Ikorodu, during inauguration of school facilities on Wednesday in Lagos

    The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Mr Bashir Adeniyi, made this known during the inauguration of the renovated Methodist Primary School, Ibeshe, Ikorodu area in Lagos on Wednesday.

     

    Adeniyi explained that the service’s CRS usually targeted life-changing interventions such as education, healthcare, waters sports and creative industry.

     

     

    Some of the facilities provided in the renovated school included over 15 different blocks of classrooms, toilets for teachers and pupils, clinic,food vendors’ spot, multipurpose hall, playing ground and class rooms for kindergarten, refuse incinerator and a clinic.

     

     

    Other facilities were 15 number of solar security lights, reconstruction of children, gingle overwing, renovation of entrance gate and a security house as well as furnishing, among others.

     

    Also, the renovated schools were equipped with computer rooms, school library and classrooms, among others.

     

     

    The comptroller-general said the service would not only be known for revenue generation but also for improving the lives of the Nigerian people as part of its CSR.

     

     

    He promised to enhance communities’ well-being and foster sustainable development, ultimately making a positive impact on the lives of those it served.

     

    “Our CSR, which commenced in 2025 targeted to directly reach out to more than 50,000 students across the country with writing tools, bags, school uniforms, pencils, pens, erasers, sharpeners, shoes and raincoats, among others.

     

     

    “We have donated writing materials to over 20,000 children, and we will still reach out to school pupils in other parts of the country.

     

     

    “We have budgeted healthcare delivery for Nigerians, what we are doing is in line with our CSR, all the communities where we serve remain strong pillars which is why we will continue supporting them.

     

     

    ” As we commission this project today, I urge the school and the benefiting community to see it not only as a gift but as a shared responsibility.

     

     

    “Let us maintain it, put it to good use, and keep the spirit of partnership alive,” Adeniyi said.

     

     

    Speaking earlier, the retired Customs Area Controller, Lilypond Export Customs Command, Mr Ajibola Odusanya, appreciated Adeniyi for giving the command the opportunity to participate in the CSR.

     

     

    He also thanked comptroller-general, stakeholders and the officers for making the command’s dream a reality for the use of humanity.

     

     

    Odusanya said education was a light, adding that giving children basic education in a conducive environment would encourage more students within the Ikorodu community to be educated.

     

     

    He said that the NCS would also take total responsibility of proper maintenance of the renovated buildings.

     

     

    In his goodwill message, the Customs Area Controller, Lilypond Export Command, Comptroller Samuel Ariyibi, commended the former and retired Comptroller of the command, Ajibola Odusanya, for the laudable initiative.

     

     

    Ariyibi also commended the support of the CGC for giving them the opportunity to touch lives and give back to their society.

     

     

    Ariyibi urged the school’s authority to create a maintenance section for the renovated buildings, adding that customs had adopted the school for continuous maintenance till eternity.

     

     

    He urged other agencies to emulate the Nigeria Customs Service’s kind gesture.

     

    The Executive Chairman, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), Dr Hekeem Shittu, represented by its Secretary, Mr Lamidi Hakeem, commended customs for taking a step towards enhancing better learning outcomes.

     

     

    Shittu acknowledged the NCS’ initiative, opining that education remained the bedrock of sustainable development.

     

     

    The Headmistress of Methodist Primary School, Ibeshe, Ikorodu , Mrs Felicia Oyatoye, appreciated the NCS for the school’s renovation.

    The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, receiving appreciate plaque from the Head Methodist Primary School Ibeshe, Mrs Felicia Oyatoye and the Secretary, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), Mr Lamidi Hakeem in Lagos on Tuesday

     

    Oyatoye said that the renovation would enable them to teach the children in a more conducive environment, adding that the project was an example of CGC’s impactful leadership.

    The inauguration was witnessed by the traditional ruler of Ibeshe kingdom, stakeholders, well-wishers, Lagos State and customs officials, among others.

  • Breaking:  Judge withdraws from EFCC’s cases against Malami

    Breaking:  Judge withdraws from EFCC’s cases against Malami

     

    Justice Obiora Egwuatu, on Thursday, recused (withdrew) himself from the two cases filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against Mr Abubakar Malami, former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

    Justice Egwuatu, who was recently re-assigned the case by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, said he decided to withdraw from the two cases for personal reasons and for better interest of justice.

    The development occured shortly after the civil suit for forfeiture of 57 property allegedly linked to Malami was called for mention.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the cases were formerly before Justice Emeka Nwite, who sat as vacation judge during the Christmas break.