Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • BoI, RMRDC partner to address agric value chain challenges

     

    By Rukayat Moisemhe
    Lagos:  The Bank of Industry (BoI) and the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) have partnered to strengthen Nigeria’s agricultural value chain and boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product.

    The Managing Director, BoI, Dr Olasupo Olusi, said on Sunday that the partnership was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Lagos.

    Olusi said the collaboration was aimed at enhancing value addition across key agricultural commodities and raw materials.

    He added that the partnership would address challenges in value chain development, including post-harvest losses, storage, processing, packaging, logistics and market access.

    Olusi stated that the initiative aligns with BoI’s mission to boost the Nigerian economy, entrench national goals of reducing post-harvest losses, drive promotion of import substitution and improve the nation’s GDP.

    He added that it would enhance wealth sustainability through job creation, and foster entrepreneurship and industrial capacity in the country.

    “To ensure the sustainability of the MoU, BoI has established a joint steering committee to oversee the implementation of the objectives.

    “It includes the development of a comprehensive strategy for minerals value-chain, agricultural value-chain development, covering seed development, cultivation, post-harvest management, processing, packaging, and market access.

    “It also facilitates the adoption and scaling of RMRDC’s locally developed machinery for raw materials value-chain development,” he said.

    Olusi said to address the challenges of post-harvest losses, the agreement ensures the development of a framework that improves storage, processing, logistics, and undertakes joint feasibility studies.

    He added that it would pilot projects for key commodities such as onions, cassava, kenaf, leather, kaolin, and other industrial raw materials.

    “This partnership brings together two institutions with complementary strengths: RMRDC’s deep expertise in raw materials research and development, and BOI’s capacity to translate viable projects into financed, executable industrial investments.

    “Together, we can do what each institution cannot do as effectively on its own. We can convert research into bankable projects that add value, create jobs, and retain wealth within our economy,” he said.

    The Director-General, RMRDC, Prof. Martin Ike-Muonso, said the council was thrilled to initiate the formalisation process.

    Ike-Muonso said both parties would unite on key aspects, primarily focusing on value exchange development and promoting the advancement of process technologies.

    These elements, he noted, would serve as the foundation for industrialisation, the creation of prosperity, and the generation of employment, along with all the indicators that guarantee that people live the kind of lives that they deserve.

    “The future, prosperity, happiness of this country, partially lies in your hands (BoI) and by accepting to work with us to finance this, we are very grateful.

    “We are also grateful that you’re taking us in to work together in co-designing, in co-sharing, data sharing, co-service programmes, and joint implementation of these programmes, as well as joint efforts on advocacy.

    “So, by coming up strongly to say you are going to finance and work with us on this, it gives hope, and then it gives hope to the country and all the people who believe that this project will work,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

  • NDLEA intercepts cocaine, loud, arrests fashion designer, others

    NDLEA intercepts cocaine, loud, arrests fashion designer, others

     

     

    By Ibironke Ariyo

    Abuja:   The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted 12 large parcels of cocaine heading to the United Kingdom via a Virgin Atlantic Airline flight from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Ikeja, Lagos.

    A statement by the NDLEA spokesman, Mr Femi Babafemi on Sunday in Abuja, said that the drugs were concealed in the false bottom of food flasks.

    Babafemi said that the cocaine consignment with a gross weight of 2.80 kilograms was intercepted on Thursday, April 16, by NDLEA operatives attached to the export shed of the Lagos airport.

    He said that two cargo agents involved in the export bid were swiftly arrested.

    “Further investigation revealed a 52-year-old Freight and Forwarding agent as the sender of the consignment and he was arrested in a follow-up operation,” he said.

    In a similar operation, NDLEA officers at the import shed of the Lagos airport on April 8, intercepted a consignment of Loud, a strong strain of cannabis.
    Babafemi said that the drugs with a gross weight of 2.90 kilograms was concealed in snack food packs and arrived from the United States of America aboard a Delta Airlines flight.

    “Two cargo clearing agents were initially arrested in connection with the seizure before the consignee, a 29-year-old fashion designer, was nabbed in a follow-up operation at 3  Oba Ogunji Road, Ogba, Lagos, on Monday.

    In the same vein, NDLEA operatives on patrol along Kaduna-Zaria highway by Gwargwaje Zaria on Monday intercepted a trailer conveying cement heading to Hadeja in Jigawa state.

    Babafemi said that a search of the truck led to the recovery of 760 blocks and 33 jumbo bags of skunk, a strain of cannabis, weighing 847 kilograms.

    He said that the truck driver was arrested in connection with the seizure.
    Meanwhile, a 53-year-old female suspect was arrested on Thursday when NDLEA officers supported by soldiers raided a forest in Uwet community, Akamkpa Local Government Area, in Cross River State.

    Babafemi said that 15,000 kilograms of skunk on six hectares of farmland were destroyed and 119kg of the same substance recovered.

    “Another cannabis farm was raided on Tuesday at Saboro camp, Ovia North East LGA, Edo, where NDLEA operatives destroyed 2,281.43kg of the same psychoactive substance.

    “Three suspects were arrested, with two others caught with 38.5kg cannabis and its seeds.

    “Another two suspects were nabbed with 87.838kg skunk and seeds at the Powerline area of Okwo, Delta state on Friday, April 17,” he said.

    In another development, two suspects were arrested on Wednesday at Mile 2, Lagos/Badagry expressway in Lagos for drug trafficking.

    Babafemi said that the suspects were conveying 11,900 capsules of tramadol and 400 ampoules of phenobarbital injection in a truck to Ghana.

    “The same day, NDLEA operatives raided a two-storey building at Petti, Lagos Island, where a total of 95.8kg skunk was recovered,” he said.
    With the same zeal, Commands and formations of the agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitisation activities in schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week.

    These include: WADA enlightenment lecture for students and staff of Alfurgan Islamic School, Paiko, Niger state. Edgerly Memorial Girls Secondary School, Calabar, Cross River; Heritage Model School, Ankpa, Kogi;
    Also, Government Day Junior and Senior Secondary School, Kankia, Katsina; Government Senior Secondary School, Rano, Kano, and De Ambassador Secondary School, Epe, Lagos state, among others.
    The NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig. -Gen. Buba Marwa, has commended the officers and men of MMIA, Edo, Delta, Cross River, Kaduna, and Lagos Commands of the Agency for the arrests and seizures.

    Marwa noted their drug supply reduction efforts balanced with WADA sensitisation activities while he charged them and their compatriots across the country to maintain the current tempo.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • BPP targets women, youths in new procurement policy

    BPP targets women, youths in new procurement policy

    The Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) has introduced an affirmative procurement system to promote inclusion and economic participation among women, youths and persons with disabilities.

    Under the initiative, priority consideration will be given to women-led businesses, youth organisations and persons living with disabilities in public procurement processes.

    The Director-General of BPP, Dr Adebowale Adedokun, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

    He said the initiative was designed to give marginalised groups a stronger sense of belonging in the nation’s economic space.

    Adedokun said the Federal Government was mandating quota allocations for these groups in the 2026 budget cycle.

    “In our bidding documents, we are directing government agencies to allocate a specific percentage of procurement opportunities to these groups,” he said.

    He added that BPP was collaborating with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and other relevant agencies to ensure effective implementation.

    Adedokun said the bureau was also restructuring the procurement system nationwide to improve efficiency and performance.

    According to him, the introduction of a Price Intelligence Unit has improved transparency and reduced arbitrary pricing by contractors.

    “For any price quoted, we can determine the appropriate market value through our team of seasoned professionals,” he said.

    He said BPP had decentralised procurement by introducing a sector-based system to enhance professionalism across industries.

    Adedokun said the approach would improve efficiency and ensure higher quality service delivery in procurement processes.

    He added that sector-specific procurement guidelines would be developed to enable quicker and more responsive service delivery.

    Adedokun urged NAN to support the bureau in publicising ongoing reforms, emphasising the importance of transparency and public accountability.

    “We are open to criticism and willing to make corrections where necessary. We are not averse to being challenged,” he said.

    NAN

  • UNICAL VC Appoints Acting Provost, Deputy for College of Post Graduate School

    UNICAL VC Appoints Acting Provost, Deputy for College of Post Graduate School

     

     

    The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL) Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has approved the appointment of Prof. Anne E. Asuquo of the department of Medical Bacteriology, Virology and Mycology and Prof. Eyo Emmanuel Essien of the Department of marketing as acting Provost and acting deputy Provost for the College of Post Graduate Studies respectively.

    The appointments conveyed in separate letters and signed by the Vice Chancellor of the institution indicates that both appointments are for a period of six (6) months in the first instance, with effect from 13th April, 2026.

    According to their letter of appointment, they are expected to discharge their duties diligently by effectively administering the college for optimal productivity and ensuring compliance with the laid down rules and regulations of the University, a statement by the University’s Public Relations Unit
    disclosed.

    Th acting Deputy Provost, as conveyed by the letter, is expected to work directly under the acting Provost.

    Accordingly, As appointees of the Vice-Chancellor, they are required to align with the mission and vision of the current administration, while upholding the values and expectations of the University at all times.

    The Vice-Chancellor emphasizes that the acting Provost is to ensure that modalities are put in place for the election of a substantive Provost of the College on the floor of the Senate at the end of her six (6) months of office

    This is even as relevant sections of the University have been directed to accord them all courtesies associated with their new offices.

     

     

  • Group lauds 411.3% growth in monthly tax revenue under Tinubu as historic, reflective of a growing economy

    Group lauds 411.3% growth in monthly tax revenue under Tinubu as historic, reflective of a growing economy

     

    By Danladi Ahmed

    The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) has described the over 400% growth in Nigeria’s monthly tax revenue in the last two years as a true reflection of the success of the reformist agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman Emeka Nwankpa and Secretary Dapo Okubanjo, it said it was unimaginable that the national monthly tax returns could grow from N711 billion in May 2023 to N3.635 trillion by September 2025, by just improving efficiency in tax administration.

    The statement read in full: “As at May 2023 when President Bola Tinubu assumed office, it was a fact that Nigeria’s tax agency then known as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) had for two consecutive years exceeded its target.

    “But the country’s tax-to-GDP ratio remained among the lowest in Sub-Saharan Africa, meaning that a lot still needed to be done at a time when the highest monthly collection was not more than N700 billion.

    “Indeed, official records show that the tax revenue for May 2023 was N711 billion but by September 2025, it had hit N3.6 trillion in one single month and that was even four months before the new tax law introduced by the President Tinubu administration became operational in January 2026.

    “Data from the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) indicate that total tax revenue progressively increased from N12.3 trillion in 2023 to N21.6 trillion in 2024 and N28.79 trillion in 2025, with the agency exceeding targets every year.

    “This is, without doubt, a major feat achieved without the administration burdening Nigerians with new taxes.

    “All it did since Dr Zacch Adedeji assumed office in September 2023 as head of the tax agency, was to identify and block more leakages, improve efficiency in revenue collection and bring more people into the tax net, and today the results are there for everyone to see.

    “We are aware that the tax system has even expanded significantly, with over 19 million taxpayers now captured and about 814,000 new corporate taxpayers added.

    “It is also worth noting that while there is an uptick in Value Added Tax (VAT) and Company Income Tax (CIT) collection, non-oil taxes are increasing exponentially under the present administration. In the last three years, the sector has cumulatively contributed over 70% of the tax returns.

    “We dare say that this monumental increase in tax revenue in the last few years did not come by chance. It is the outcome of a deliberate approach to governance that has made the economy more resilient and attractive to investors.

    “And contrary to suggestions that the government was out to tax the poor, it is obvious that no new taxes have been introduced. Rather, what we have seen are tax exemptions and reliefs for low-income earners and small businesses.

    “So it is easy to affirm that the consistent increase in tax collection is a reflection of a productive economy. This is more so as individuals and companies can only pay taxes as due in a booming economy.

    “And now that the new tax law has placed Nigeria’s revenue under one umbrella with petroleum revenues and mineral royalties transferred to the NRS, we are not surprised that the government has set an ambitious N40.7 trillion revenue target for 2026.

    “This is significantly higher than the 2025 target of N25.2 trillion which it exceeded by N3.1 trillion and already there are indications that 2026 would be better.”

    The group is convinced that the NRS leadership is up to the task of ensuring that the tax reforms continue to be people-centred and investment-friendly in line with President Tinubu’s vision of taxing prosperity.

    Expressing confidence that federal tax receipts will continue to surge in the coming months, the TMSG urged Nigerians to continue to keep faith in the resilience of the federal administration in navigating the labyrinth of the unforeseeable future.

    End.

  • 31 Artillery Brigade wins army fitness competition

    31 Artillery Brigade wins army fitness competition

    By Yahaya Isa
    The 31 Artillery Brigade, Minna, on Friday emerged overall winner of the 1 Division Nigerian Army Corporal and Below Combat Fitness Competition.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the competition began on Monday at the brigade obstacle course and ended on Friday.
    Participants were drawn from four formations: 3 Brigade Kano, 18 Brigade Bida, 1 Division Garrison Kaduna, and 31 Artillery Brigade, Minna.
    Events included drill, weapon handling, swimming, map reading, a 10-kilometre half cross-country race, and obstacle crossing.
    At the end, 31 Artillery Brigade, Minna, placed first, 3 Brigade Kano second, 1 Division Garrison Kaduna third, and 18 Brigade Bida fourth.
    The Special Guest of Honour, Maj.-Gen. Peter Malla, commended participants, saying the exercise was not only about trophies but strengthening combat readiness.
    The Commandant, Training and Doctrine Nigerian Army (TRADOC-NA), represented by Maj.-Gen. Muhammed Abdullahi, said such drills were necessary, especially given the country’s security situation.
    He urged personnel to apply the skills gained in carrying out their responsibilities.
    Malla said the competition aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s philosophy of building a more professional, adaptable, and combat-ready force.
    He added that persistent security challenges required stronger cohesion and camaraderie among security agencies.
    Highlights included presentation of trophies to winners and souvenirs to dignitaries present at the event.
    NAN
  • Enugu CP monitors security at UTME-CBT centres, hails orderly, peaceful conduct

    Enugu CP monitors security at UTME-CBT centres, hails orderly, peaceful conduct

    Enugu CP monitors security at UTME-CBT centres, hails orderly, peaceful conduct

    The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mr Mamman Giwa, has monitored security arrangements at various centres for the ongoing 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) Computer-Based Test (CBT) across the state.

    After the monitoring on Saturday, the Commissioner commended police personnel, other security agencies, and JAMB officials for the peaceful and orderly conduct observed at all centres.

    The state police boss noted that centres covered included those in Nsukka, Agbani and Enugu metropolis axis of the state.

    The centres are: the University of Nigeria, Nsukka; Maduka University; Zeetech CBT Centre; Renaissance University; St. Augustine CBT Centre; Institute of Management and Technology; Enugu State College of Education Technical; Union Secondary School, and Holy Rosary College.

    The commissioner, however, charged security personnel to sustain the momentum to ensure a seamless and hitch-free examination process.

    He reaffirmed the command’s commitment in collaboration with other security agencies, to maintaining law and order throughout the examination period and beyond.

    He urged members of the public, particularly candidates, parents, and guardians, to report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or via the command’s emergency lines: 08032003702, 08086671202, 112, 09134666668, and 09134448093.

    The UTME examination, which was scheduled by JAMB for 10 days, started on April 16 and would terminate on April 25.

  • NCoS appreciates Monsignor Ike, CIDJAP contributions to inmates’ reformation, custodial centres uplift

    NCoS appreciates Monsignor Ike, CIDJAP contributions to inmates’ reformation, custodial centres uplift

    NCoS appreciates Monsignor Ike, CIDJAP contributions to inmates’ reformation, custodial centres uplift

    The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has appreciated Monsignor Obiora Ike, Founder, Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP) for his contributions to inmates’ reformation and uplift of custodial centres.

    It would be recalled, that Ike, who is also a Professor of Ethics and Religion, celebrated his 70 birthday, 45 years of priesthood and 40 years of founding CIDJAP, on April 7.

    Speaking after a novelty match in honour of Ike at the Maximum Custodial Centre, Enugu on Saturday, Assistant Controller-General of Corrections (ACG) Prisca Oku, the Zonal Coordinator of NCoS, Zone M, Enugu. commended Ike for dedication to reformation of inmates.

    Oku noted that Ike through his CIDJAP institute had been instrumental to most of the charity and humanitarian works done in custodial centres in Enugu State and beyond.

    She said, “On behalf of the Controller-General of NCoS, C-G Sylvester Nwakuche, we appreciate you for 40 years of impact to inmates in the state through personal and CIDJAP projects and interventions. You are indeed a pillar of support.

    “We, NCoS, are here to celebrate your uncommon and impactful life as well as touch on inmates’ reformation in our facilities.

    “We continue to pray that God keep blessing and strengthen you with good health. God will bless all those working in CIDJAP that have helped to carry out your positive  dreams and aspirations concerning inmates to reality.”

    Corroborating, the Enugu State Controller of Corrections, Mr Valins Obizue, noted that Ike had become the voice of the voiceless and represented inmates interest in all levels of governance and engagements.

    “Your life, Monsignor, is a great inspiration to all and your philanthropy to the downtrodden and those behind bars remains exemplary for over 40 years.

    “We know that the centres always have pressing needs; but we must pulse and thank you immensely for the dedicated years of service to humanity especially to the course and reformation of inmates. We are grateful,” Obizue said.

    Speaking, the Deputy Controller of Corrections in-charge of Maximum Custodial Centre, Enugu, Dr Sunday Igwe, said that NCoS brought out the programmes to appreciate and celebrate a priest and brother to inmates, “who holds nothing back to show his love to inmates”.

    According to Igwe, the novelty football match won by Monsignor Ike’s team, the guided tour and inmates’ products’ exhibition are all meant for the inmates and NCoS to join in celebrating Ike’s impact to the custodial community in Enugu State.

    “We appeal for assistance in differs ways especially in reduction of number of inmates, vehicles to take them to court, vehicles for official duties, revitalisation of machines and equipment in various workshops and a functional water tanker among others,” he said.

    One of the inmates, who spoke on condition of anonymity on behalf of others, said that CIDJAP had given virtually all inmate educational scholarship to all levels of education, sponsored vocational training and paid health expenses among other philanthropic gestures.

    “However, daddy, we are no longer asking for double ration of food; but double ration of freedom and release from here; so that we can be integrated into the society and use our discovered talents and higher educational attainment to assist the society better,” he said.

    Responding, Ike said that he had taken copious note of lacks in the facility during the guided tour, listened to demands of inmates and “noted an abnormal as well”.

    He noted that CIDJAP would donate 10 sewing machines and bring technicians that would fix obsolete machines in vocational workshops, adding: “We will meet and pressurise the governor to donate vehicles for conveying inmates to courts and for officials.”

    Ike said, “Since I am a member of the State Committee on Prerogative of Mercy; the governor will be granting amnesty to some inmates on May 29, which is Democracy Day; Oct. 1 Independence Day and on New Year Day.

    “I will be meeting the Chief Judge of the state and work out possibility of having jail delivery twice yearly and send CIDJAP lawyers to take up some cases, where the accused and incarcerated are innocent or have no one to speak for them.”

    Ike assured that on compassionate grounds, he would take up the case of nursing mothers or pregnant women in custody.

    “We must stop the courts and law enforcement agencies sending mentally challenged persons to custodial facilities, there are medically helpful places they should go to.” he added.

  • MR. ONIKEDE KAMIL EMERGES BURSAR OF FEDERAL SCHOOL OF SURVEYING, OYO

    MR. ONIKEDE KAMIL EMERGES BURSAR OF FEDERAL SCHOOL OF SURVEYING, OYO

    The Federal School of Surveying, Oyo, Oyo State, has announced the appointment of Mr. Onikede Kamil as its new Bursar, marking the beginning of a new phase of financial discipline, accountability, and institutional advancement.

    The appointment, approved by the Governing Council, underscores the institution’s commitment to competence, credibility, and sustainable growth. Mr. Kamil is scheduled to formally assume office on May 17, 2026, following the completion of tenure by the outgoing Bursar.

    A seasoned accountant and tested administrator, Mr. Kamil brings over two decades of professional experience spanning public sector finance, institutional administration, banking, and financial management.

    Academic and Professional Background

    Mr. Kamil holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance and Management (2012) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (2007). He earlier obtained a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Accounting (2001) and a National Diploma (ND) in Accounting (1997).

    He is an Associate Member of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN) and the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants (ICMA), in addition to holding a Postgraduate Professional Diploma in Accounting. His professional growth has been strengthened through continuous participation in Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) programmes and specialized trainings in ethics, public service values, ICT, and financial accountability.

    Wealth of Administrative Experience

    Before his appointment, Mr. Kamil served as Chief Accountant at Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa, where he played a central role in planning, organizing, and coordinating the institution’s financial systems. He also previously served as Acting Bursar for 14 months (June 2019 – August 2020), earning a Letter of Commendation from the Governing Council Chairman for exemplary service.

    His experience includes active participation in annual budget defense sessions at the Oyo State Secretariat, engagement with top government officials, representation before the Oyo State House Committee on Education, and participation in tripartite audit meetings under the supervision of the Oyo State Auditor-General.

    Mr. Kamil was instrumental in coordinating the merging of institutional accounts into a Single Treasury Account (TSA) in compliance with state government financial reforms. He also maintained productive engagements with staff unions, promoting transparency, accountability, and industrial harmony.

    His professional career further includes service at The Polytechnic, Ibadan; Skye Bank Plc; Cornerstone Insurance Plc; and the Pipeline and Petroleum Marketing Company (PPMC), a subsidiary of NNPC, during his National Youth Service.

    Scholarly Contributions and Recognitions

    Beyond administration, Mr. Kamil has contributed to academic research in areas such as financial management in banking institutions, value-added tax administration, marketing in the Nigerian banking industry, and occupational stress among academic staff.

    His dedication and professionalism have earned him several commendations, including a Letter of Commendation as Acting Bursar, an Honourary Award from a Students’ Union Government, and an Award of Excellence from the Federation of Ibadan Students’ Union (FIBSU).

    A Strategic Choice for Institutional Growth

    According to the Governing Council, Mr. Kamil was selected after a competitive process in recognition of his outstanding experience, proven financial expertise, and strong administrative capacity.

    With more than 20 years of progressive professional experience, the new Bursar is expected to strengthen fiscal discipline, enhance accountability frameworks, and reinforce financial transparency at the Federal School of Surveying, Oyo.

    His appointment signals a strategic investment in institutional stability and financial excellence, as the school continues its mission of academic and professional leadership in surveying and geospatial education.

    Stakeholders have expressed confidence that under Mr. Onikede Kamil’s stewardship, the institution’s financial management system will witness renewed vigor, efficiency, and sustainable growth.