Insight by Oppy

In a bold move to boost the local healthcare manufacturing sector and help lower production costs, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has begun implementing a two-year zero tariff policy on imported pharmaceutical inputs. This significant policy change comes on the heels of President Bola Tinubu’s approval of comprehensive guidelines designed to exempt import duty and value-added tax (VAT) on critical raw materials. What’s Changing? The new policy covers a wide range of essential items used in the production of life-saving medicines, including active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), excipients, and other raw materials. Additionally, the exemption extends to items such as long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs), rapid diagnostic kits, reagents, and even packaging materials. The aim is to create a more conducive environment for pharmaceutical manufacturing and to reduce the overall cost of medications—a pressing issue that has been impacting Nigerians for some time. The Backg...

By Insight by Oppy In a bold move to enhance humanitarian response efforts, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to integrate the National Social Register (NSR) with the National Identity Numbers (NIN). This initiative aims to streamline aid distribution, eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks, and ensure that relief reaches those in dire need without unnecessary delays. The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, disclosed this development during the National Humanitarian Roundtable in Abuja. According to him, the integration of data will revolutionize how the government anticipates and responds to crises, ultimately saving more lives. Addressing the Bureaucratic Crisis in Humanitarian Response Prof. Yilwatda highlighted that beyond natural disasters and security challenges, Nigeria faces a significant "bureaucratic crisis"—a systemic issue that slows down decision-making and relief efforts.  “Every delay in de...

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have dismantled a fraudulent Ponzi scheme academy in Abuja, arresting 133 suspects in the process. The operation took place on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the Compensation Layout in Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), following credible intelligence on the illegal activities of the organization. The academy, identified as Q University (also known as Q-Net), was allegedly involved in recruiting unsuspecting young Nigerians and training them to lure more individuals into the scheme with promises of unrealistic financial gains. Victims were enrolled in a program titled "Special Training for New Generation Billionaires," where they were reportedly indoctrinated with slogans such as "I’m a Champion," "I’m Unstoppable," and "I’m Infinity," to reinforce a false sense of financial empowerment. To join the scheme, recruits were required to purchase an “Independent Repres...

The Oyo State Government has officially withdrawn all criminal charges against Naomi Silekunola, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Agidigbo FM; and Abdullahi Fasasi, principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan. These charges were initially filed following a tragic stampede at a children's festive event in December 2024, which resulted in the deaths of at least 35 children.  Background of the Incident On December 18, 2024, a children's funfair was organized at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan. The event turned tragic when a stampede occurred, leading to the loss of 35 young lives. In the aftermath, the Oyo State Government took legal action against key organizers, including Silekunola, Hamzat, and Fasasi, charging them with conspiracy, criminal negligence, and manslaughter.  Legal Proceedings Following their arraignment, the defendants were remanded in custody but were later granted bail by the Oyo State High Court in January 2...

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued Public Alert No. 05/2025, warning the public about the circulation of falsified Cikatem (Artemether 180 mg/Lumefantrine 1080 mg) suspension bearing a fraudulent NAFDAC Registration Number NRN A11-100025.  Discovery of the Falsified Product The falsified Cikatem suspension was uncovered at the Coordinated Wholesale Centre (CWC) in Kano following a consumer complaint investigated by NAFDAC's post-marketing surveillance (PMS) officers. The investigation revealed that the product's packaging displayed NAFDAC Registration Number A11-100025, which is assigned to Cikatem Tablet 20/120 mg, not the suspension formulation. Consequently, 17,280 bottles of the falsified suspension were seized at the manufacturing facility and are slated for destruction.  Health Risks Associated with Falsified Medicines Counterfeit or falsified medicines pose significant health risks as they do not comply with ...

On March 19, 2025, the Federal High Court in Abuja vacated its previous order that had restrained the Senate from suspending Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central. Presiding over the case, Justice Obiora Egwuatu reversed the interim injunction after hearing arguments from both parties involved.  Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had initially sought an ex-parte motion to prevent the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct from investigating allegations of misconduct against her. This led to the court issuing an interim injunction on March 4, halting any disciplinary proceedings. Despite this, the Senate proceeded to suspend her for six months on March 6, citing misconduct during the February 20 plenary session.  In response to her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan filed a contempt charge, arguing that the Senate's action was a blatant disregard for the court's directive. The Senate's counsel, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), contested the initia...

By Insight by Oppy President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially sworn in Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the sole administrator of Rivers State, following the declaration of a state of emergency in the state. The swearing-in ceremony took place today, Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at the State House in Abuja, with key government officials, including the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, and Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, in attendance. Why the State of Emergency? President Tinubu declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, citing the prolonged political crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Despite a Supreme Court ruling on the matter, tensions in the state have persisted, raising security concerns. According to the President, the decision was necessary to prevent a total breakdown of law and order and ensure stability in the oil-...

In an unprecedented move, President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the State House of Assembly for six months. This decision, announced on March 18, 2025, aims to restore political stability following a deepening crisis in the state. Why the Emergency Rule? President Tinubu cited Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, emphasizing the need to protect democratic institutions amid escalating political tensions. Reports indicate that the crisis worsened following allegations that Governor Fubara ordered the demolition of the State House of Assembly building, a move that further divided political factions in the state. Who’s in Charge Now? To ensure continued governance, the President has appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the new Administrator of Rivers State. Meanwhile, the judiciary remains unaffected by the emergency rule and will continue to perfo...

By Insight by Oppy The Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) has reported a decline in the landing cost of imported Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to N797.66 per litre as of Monday, reflecting a N20.16 drop from the N817.82 per litre recorded on March 14. According to MEMAN's daily Energy Bulletin, the on-the-spot rate at the NPSC-NOJ terminal also decreased to N797.73 per litre, compared to N817.9 per litre recorded the previous week. Additionally, the 30-day average landing cost saw a marginal drop from N854.15 per litre to N851.76 per litre. Meanwhile, the price of Brent crude oil rose slightly, reaching $70.58 per barrel, up from $69.88 per barrel on March 14. The exchange rate stood at N1,517.93 per dollar, while marketers calculated the product quantity at 38,000 metric tonnes. MEMAN highlighted that global petroleum pricing remains highly volatile, influenced by a range of geopolitical and economic factors. These include ongoing tensions in the Midd...

March 13, 2025 – Abuja In a decisive move that has captured the nation’s attention, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has revoked the land allocated to the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) national secretariat. The property, located at Plot No. 243 within the Central Area of Cadastral Zone A00, Abuja, has been reclaimed by the FCT Administration following 20 years of unpaid ground rents. What Happened? The revocation comes after the PDP’s failure to settle annual ground rents spanning from January 1, 2006, to January 1, 2025. Despite several notifications from the FCT Administration dating back to 2023, the party did not clear its outstanding dues. The official revocation letter, signed by Chijioke Nwankwoeze—Director of Land Administration—underscored that non-payment was a clear breach of the conditions attached to the Right of Occupancy. Implications and Reactions This bold decision by Minister Wike underscores the administration's commitment to enforcin...

In a major shift, Nigeria’s food inflation rate slowed to 23.51% in February 2025, a significant drop from the 37.92% recorded in February 2024, according to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). This decline marks a notable reduction in food price increases over the past year, offering some relief to consumers. However, despite this improvement, food prices are still rising—just at a slower pace than before. Why the Drop? The NBS attributes this sharp decline partly to a change in the base year for measurement—a technical adjustment that affects how inflation is calculated. On a month-on-month basis, food inflation stood at 1.67% in February, indicating that while prices are still climbing, the rate of increase is slowing compared to January 2025. Which Food Items Became Cheaper? The report highlights that several staple food items recorded lower price increases in February, including: ✅ Yam tubers ✅ Potatoes ✅ Soybeans ...

…Six to be Fully Operational by May 2025 In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to providing affordable, clean, and sustainable energy, the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF), in partnership with Femadec Energy, is set to establish Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion centres and refuelling stations in 20 federal tertiary institutions across Nigeria. The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Morufu Olatunji Alausa, recently met with Vice-Chancellors, officials from Femadec Energy, MDGIF, and the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) to finalize project details and ensure timely execution. Dr. Alausa highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, “This project is a major step towards reducing transportation costs for students and lecturers while also integrating clean energy solutions into our academic institutions.” A representative from Femadec Energy echoed this vision, emphasizing that the collaboration ...

The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of a police inspector, Ajele Oloyede, while on special duty at Goodwill Ceramic Company in Igbesa, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of the state. The incident occurred on March 14, 2025, at approximately 1:20 PM, under circumstances that have prompted an ongoing investigation. Incident Details According to a statement released by the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Omolola Odutola, the distressing event was first discovered by Tolorunloju Stephen, a fellow police officer attached to the Force Headquarters Annex, Lagos, who was also deployed on special duty at the company. Stephen reported that he had just returned from Ikeja, Lagos, when he entered the security office at the company’s premises and saw Inspector Oloyede resting his head on a table. Upon exchanging pleasantries and asking about his well-being, the deceased officer responded positively, indicating no immediate signs of distress. S...

A Chief Magistrate Court in Wuse Zone 6, Abuja, has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of popular social media commentator, Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), over allegations of criminal defamation against renowned gospel artist, Mercy Chinwo. The court directed the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies to apprehend VDM and present him before the court to face the charges. Chief Magistrate Emmanuel Iyanna issued the warrant on Thursday, March 13, 2025, following VDM’s failure to appear in court after being summoned on March 5, 2025. The case stems from alleged defamatory statements made by VDM on social media, accusing Mercy Chinwo of financial misconduct involving $345,000 linked to her former record label boss, Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu, also known as Eezee Tee. Chinwo provided the court with documentary evidence, including emails and payment receipts, to counter the claims, asserting that VDM’s allegations were false and damaging to her ...

Abuja, Nigeria – March 11, 2025 – The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has uncovered and exposed 58 companies operating fraudulent investment schemes, commonly known as Ponzi schemes, across Nigeria. These schemes have swindled unsuspecting Nigerians out of billions of naira by promising unrealistic returns on investment. The EFCC, in a statement released today, warned the public to exercise caution and conduct due diligence before investing in any financial venture. According to the anti-graft agency, the affected companies have been flagged for various forms of fraudulent activities, ranging from illegal fund solicitation to failing to deliver on promised returns. Full List of Identified Ponzi Schemes Among the 58 entities identified by the EFCC, notable names include: Wales Kingdom Capital Bethseida Group of Companies AQM Capital Limited Titan Multibusiness Investment Limited Brickwall Global Investment Limited Farmforte Limited & Agro Partnership Tech...

By Insight by Oppy In a significant security development, armed bandits previously operating in Bukuyum Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara State have reportedly relocated to Bani town in Kwara State. This move comes after sustained military operations and intensified efforts by local vigilantes, leading to heavy casualties among the criminal group. According to intelligence sources, a captured insurgent, apprehended in Kyaram community, revealed crucial details about the current status and movements of the fleeing bandits. The informant disclosed that many fighters had been neutralized or forced to abandon their strongholds due to relentless security operations. However, key leaders and surviving members have now regrouped in Kwara State, posing a fresh security challenge. “Their ranks have been significantly weakened, but they still possess dangerous weapons and ammunition. Their relocation to Bani town should be a cause for concern,” the source disclosed. Security exp...

By Insight by Oppy The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in the investigation of the gruesome murder of retired Brigadier General Uwen Harold Udokwere. The former senior military officer was assassinated in his Lokogoma residence on June 22, 2024. Acting on intelligence, the police's elite Scorpion Squad apprehended two prime suspects—18-year-old Alkasim Mohammed and 22-year-old Suleiman Abdullahi—during a tactical operation in Durumi Phase 2, Abuja. Authorities recovered a Beretta pistol (Breach No. 58866) along with 11 rounds of live 9mm ammunition. The suspects have since confessed to being part of a notorious criminal syndicate responsible for a series of violent crimes across the FCT. Shocking Revelations from Police Interrogation During interrogation, the suspects reportedly admitted to: ✅ The murder of Brig. Gen. Udokwere, whom they ambushed inside his home after scaling his fence. ✅ The March 7, 2024 killing of Al...

In a major step toward improving maternal healthcare, the Federal Government of Nigeria has designated 154 health facilities nationwide to provide free treatment for women experiencing obstetric complications. This initiative aims to address health challenges during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum periods, ensuring better health outcomes for both mothers and babies. The announcement was made by Professor Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, who emphasized the government's commitment to reducing maternal and infant mortality rates. The selected hospitals are equipped with skilled healthcare professionals and essential medical resources to offer comprehensive emergency obstetric care (CEmOC). In addition to the 154 hospitals, the government has also established 18 centers across the country to provide free treatment for Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF), a severe childbirth-related injury that leaves many women incontinent and socially is...

By Insight by Oppy In a major move to improve healthcare accessibility in Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved an 80% subsidy on kidney dialysis treatment across several federal medical institutions. This initiative significantly reduces the cost of dialysis sessions from ₦50,000 to ₦12,000, making life-saving treatment more affordable for patients battling kidney disease. The announcement, made by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, highlights the government's commitment to addressing the rising burden of kidney-related ailments in the country. Expanding Access to Life-Saving Treatment The subsidy will be implemented in over ten federal medical centers, including: University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Lagos Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abuja University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), Maiduguri Thes...

Date: March 4, 2025 Source: FCT Police Command, Abuja The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has dismissed reports suggesting that retired Comptroller General of the Nigerian Immigration Service, David Shikfu Parradang, was kidnapped and killed. Instead, the Police confirmed that he was found dead in his hotel room under circumstances that are currently under investigation. According to the Police, Mr. Parradang checked into Joy House Hotel, Area 3 Junction, at about 12:00 PM on March 3, 2025, driving a black Mercedes Benz. He paid ₦22,000 for a one-night stay and later invited a female guest to his room. The lady left the hotel at 4:00 PM, and Mr. Parradang was not seen leaving his room afterward. Concerned for his well-being, a military officer friend traced him to the hotel in the early hours of March 4, 2025. Upon arrival, the officer and hotel staff entered his room, where they discovered him dead, seated in a chair. The Durumi Police Station was immediatel...

Lagos, Nigeria – The Lagos State House of Assembly has officially sworn in Rt. Hon. Mudasiru Obasa as the Speaker of the 10th Assembly, reaffirming his leadership in the legislative arm of the state government. Alongside him, Hon. Mojisola Miranda has been inaugurated as the Deputy Speaker, solidifying the assembly’s leadership structure as they take on the responsibilities of lawmaking and governance in Nigeria’s economic capital. The swearing-in ceremony took place today, with both lawmakers taking their oath of office amidst the presence of their colleagues, government officials, and other dignitaries. Rt. Hon. Mudasiru Obasa, who has served as Speaker since 2015, continues to lead the House, bringing years of legislative experience and political influence. His reappointment signals continuity in the assembly’s operations and policymaking direction. Hon. Mojisola Miranda’s emergence as Deputy Speaker marks another significant development in the assembly’s leadership. A s...

China has reportedly discovered an extensive thorium deposit capable of supplying energy for up to 60,000 years, according to a recently declassified national geological survey. The discovery was made at the Bayan Obo mining complex in Inner Mongolia, where scientists estimate the site could yield approximately one million tonnes of thorium if fully developed. The survey, which identified 233 thorium-rich zones across China, highlights that significant thorium reserves remain untapped within mining waste. Researchers suggest that just five years' worth of mining byproducts from Bayan Obo contain enough thorium to meet the United States’ energy demands for over 1,000 years. Thorium, a naturally occurring and slightly radioactive element, has long been considered a viable alternative to uranium for nuclear energy production. While not directly fissile, thorium can be converted into uranium-233, which sustains nuclear fission. In a molten-salt reactor (MSR), thorium is mix...

By Adio Odunjo Obbo-Ile Unarguably, effective governance thrives on inclusivity and public participation. When political leaders consult their constituents before initiating projects or policies, they ensure that development efforts align with the real needs and priorities of the people they serve. It also inspires the public to take ownership of such projects or policies. Engaging citizens fosters trust, enhances transparency, and promotes accountability, ultimately leading to more impactful and sustainable projects. The above stated reality seems to be lost on Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, who's fond of initiating projects and policies without consulting, engaging with or seeking the inputs of stakeholders and the general public. If Governor Abdulrazaq truly understands the people he governs, he wouldn't make policies without first engaging them. Time and again, his administration has made decisions that directly affect the grassroots, yet withou...