Sunday Ehigiator

The Managing Director of Accion Microfinance Bank, Mr. Taiwo Joda, has warned that Nigeria’s Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprise (MSME) sector risks stagnation unless financial institutions urgently evolve from traditional lenders into full-scale enablers of business growth,

Joda sounded the warning during Accion Microfinance Bank’s 2025 Annual Financial Inclusion Seminar, with the theme ‘Unlocking MSME Value Chain to Drive Growth and Prosperity: The Evolving Role of Financial Institutions’, held in Lagos

According to Joda, Nigeria can no longer afford a financial system that discourages entrepreneurs before they even begin operations. 

He said, “complex documentation, rigid collateral requirements and slow onboarding processes are shutting millions of MSMEs out of formal finance, despite the sector contributing about 48 per cent of GDP and 84 per cent of national employment.

“Financial institutions must work with regulators to co-design rules that control risk without scaring MSMEs away with paperwork. Simpler documentation, clearer guidelines and digital-first onboarding systems are immediate wins.”

He stressed that unlocking MSME value chains requires deliberate regulatory and institutional reforms, identifying four urgent steps government and regulators must take. 

“These include simplifying Know-Your-Customer (KYC) requirements for low-risk MSMEs, relaxing collateral rules in favour of cash-flow–based lending, accelerating approvals for digital lending platforms, and enforcing faster, more transparent processes at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and land registries. These changes would immediately open up credit channels across the entire MSME value chain,” he noted.

Joda also argued that microfinance banks must move beyond the narrow role of credit providers to become ecosystem architects that actively integrate MSMEs into productive value chains. 

He explained that institutions like Accion can leverage their existing MSME networks to connect producers, distributors and service providers on shared digital platforms that combine payments, training, market access and partnerships alongside credit.

“By becoming the hub that links finance with supply chains, information and technology, financial institutions position themselves as enablers of MSME growth rather than just sources of loans,” he said.

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From last week continues the narrative on the emergence of Dr Moses Majekodunmi as administrator of Western Nigeria following the declaration of emergency rule. It also highlights the emergence and various roles played by Oba Akinyele, Oba Akenzua and Oba Aderele.

This came to a head when Alhaji Chief Dauda Soroye Adegbenro (1909-1975), the Balogun of Owu and the Ekerin of Egbaland, Chief Awolowo’s supporter, was appointed premier by Governor Sir Adesoji Aderemi, the Ooni of Ife. Disorder broke out in the House of Assembly as the new Premier was presenting his government for vote of confidence and following the subsequent outbreak of violence both among their supporters outside, the Region was placed under a state of emergency. The government was suspended and as sole Administrator of the West was appointed in the person of Dr. Moses A. Majekodunmi. 

Throughout the entire political crisis Oba Akinyele remained aloof, placing himself at the disposal of any peace initiative for which Ibadan was a venue on several occasions. He ruled for only ten years but left a big reputation behind when he died in May 1965. 

Oba Uku Akpolokpolo Omo n’Oba n’Edo (1889-1978) Akenzua II was born as Edokparhogbuyunmun at Benin in 1899; his father was Oba Eweka II who ruled Benin from 1914 until 1933, and his grandfather the great Oba Ovonramwen who was the last independent King of Benin. He studied at Benin Government School between 1907 and 1915 and later at King’s College, Lagos, from 1918 to 1921. On leaving school, he became employed as a transport clerk in the Benin Native Authority on a wage of N6 per month.

His training for the future office of Oba began when he became confidential Secretary to his father, Eweka II, whose death in 1933 introduced Akenzua II to the rigour of office. Before then, in 1925, he worked under the supervision of the late Alake of Egbaland, Oba Ladapo Ademola II (1872–1962). Following this, he was appointed to head the Ekaidolor District, the present Iyekuselu; he was in this office when his father died. In the same year Prince Okoro was installed Oba of Benin with the title of Akenzua II. 

Between 1946 and 1966, the formative years of the new political system in the country, the Oba was a member of the Legislative Council of Nigeria, member of the Western House of Assembly, a member of the Western House of Chiefs and a Cabinet Minister.

Oba Akenzua was instrumental in the creation of the Midwest Region; it was his view that the two provinces of Benin and Delta in the Western Region could constitute the Bendel State by which the Midwest later became known. In October 1953, he formed the Benin-Delta People’s Party to campaign for the Unification of the two provinces. With the creation of the region, he became the first President of the Midwest House of Chiefs in 1964. His contributions to the politics and policies that shaped the content of Nigerian formative politics were rewarded by awards and honours bestowed on him: he was decorated with the insignia of the Commander of the Republic of Nigeria and was made a Justice of Peace. From 1966 to 1972 he served as the Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. 

As the Oba of Benin, Akenzua II was the custodian of the rich Bini tradition and culture whose study and promotion he personally encouraged; it was to this end he volunteered whatever bronze or ivory carvings under his jurisdiction for the success of the Black Arts and Culture Festival, FESTAC, that was held in the Nigeria capital in 1977. He died in the late 1978 and was succeeded by Solomon Igbinoghodua Aisiokuoba who became Oba Erediauwa I of Benin in 1979. 

Oba Rufus Adesokeji Aderele (Tewogboye II), son of Oba Tewogboye 1 ascended the throne as the Osemawe of Ondo, after the dethronement Oba Fidipote II. He was an educated Oba, adequately experienced in the system of governance and reigned from 1942-1974. He was the father Prince Ademola Olugbade Aderele; who served Nigeria as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on various missions, including representing the Nigerian Government as its first Nigerian High Commissioner to Thailand.

To be concluded 

•Teniola, a former director at the Presidency, wrote from Lagos.

The post Assessing the relevance of traditional rulers (3), by Eric Teniola    appeared first on Vanguard News.

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Nigeria has secured a $1 billion innovation fund aimed at supporting start-ups in the marine and blue economy sector.

Ronke Kosoko, the Chief Executive Officer of the Maritime Innovations Hub, announced this at a media event held in Abuja on Monday. The event was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

Notable attendees included Olusegun Dada, the Special Adviser to the President on Social Media, as well as representatives from the National Inland Waterways Authority, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, and other ministries and government agencies.

Mrs. Kosoko stated that the fund will be officially launched at the Blue Economy Investment Summit, scheduled to take place from March 9 to 11, 2026, in Lagos.

She also mentioned that international funders are expected to meet with President Bola Tinubu and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, during the summit.

Also, Mrs. Kosoko explained that the $1 billion fund is a follow-up to Nigeria’s earlier achievement of securing a $100 million training bid for capacity development in the maritime industry.

“When the $100Million offer came, I wasn’t looking for it because people trust me globally due to our track records, but we have rearranged another offer and it was in the process that the $1 billion offer came, so we had to go back to the Presidency again and that informed why you have been seeing me around the Ministry in the last six months.

“We’re now at the end, because they will now be coming back into the country to meet with the Hon. Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, the Central Bank Governor as well as the President in March 2026 and they also plan to support some start ups in the sector with funding and international training, so the stage is set,” she said.

She stressed that global investors are more interested in clear deliverables than politics.

“People and organisations have money in billions of Euros and Dollars but they are not interested in our dirty politicking and games, they are interested in the task to be achieved so when we are ready with that, they will flow in,” she added.

The development comes as Nigeria intensifies efforts to diversify its economy away from oil dependence by tapping into the blue economy, which covers maritime transport, fisheries, coastal tourism, shipbuilding and ocean-based renewable energy. Nigeria has one of the largest coastlines in West Africa and a strategic position along major global shipping routes,

However, inadequate port infrastructure, policy bottlenecks, and limited access to financing have constrained growth in the sector, forcing shipping lines and investors to favour neighbouring countries. The newly secured innovation fund is expected to address some of these gaps by supporting start-ups with capital, skills and international exposure.

Mrs Kosoko disclosed that no fewer than 370,000 youths across the country will participate in the summit alongside 28 governors and 37 serving senators.

“370,000 youths across 36 States of the Federation including the FCT will be connecting live to the President at the event from their State Capital and we will be working with the PBATMEDIACENTRE on this particular demographics.

“28 State Governors on the table and 10 of them are represented at this Media Parley.

37 Senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.

Reflecting on the country’s maritime performance, Mrs Kosoko lamented that Nigeria continues to lose billions of naira to neighbouring countries such as Lomé and Cote d I’voice, as vessels increasingly prefer to berth there rather than in Nigerian ports.

“It is also no longer news that Nigeria is losing billions to Lome, Togo, Cote d I’voire as vessels now prefer to berth in those countries rather than coming to Nigeria and those countries studied our weaknesses as a country and built a business around Nigeria’s failure,” she added.

She noted that reclaiming these lost opportunities is a priority of the Technical Assistant to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, who will lead a dedicated session on the issue at the March 2026 summit.

Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the President on Social Media, Olusegun Dada, called for simpler and more accessible policies, stressing that government initiatives should be communicated in ways that young people and the general public can easily understand, rather than through complex technical language.

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Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has assured the management of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, of his administration’s commitment to addressing accumulated unpaid salaries, gratuities and other critical challenges inherited from past administrations.

The governor gave the assurance when he received the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor (Mrs.) Eunice Eboserehimen Omonzejie, and members of her management team on a courtesy visit to Government House, Benin City.

Governor Okpebholo, while congratulating the Vice-Chancellor and her team on their appointments, noted that their presentation underscored the depth of challenges confronting the institution.

The governor in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Dr Patrick Ebojele said.

“From what you have outlined today, it is clear that Ambrose Alli University was on life support. I must commend the progress you have recorded so far since assuming the office,” the governor said.

“I am impressed by your efforts, and I want to assure you that in any way possible, this administration will support the university to reposition it and restore its lost glory.”

Addressing the issue of accumulated salary arrears, the governor described the non-payment of staff salaries over several years as unfair and unacceptable.

“It is not right for people to work and not be paid. The issue of unpaid salaries, pensions and gratuities running into billions of naira is something I will take as a project,” he said.

“These are issues inherited from the past government, and we will address them.”

Governor Okpebholo also acknowledged other concerns raised by the University management, including hostel infrastructure, accreditation-related challenges and facilities required for programmes such as Medical Laboratory Science.

“This year’s budget is already at an advanced stage, but I expect that these critical needs will be properly captured in your budget proposals. Once that is done, we will see how best to move the institution forward,” he added.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Omonzejie, explained that the delay in paying a courtesy visit to the governor was due to a recently concluded accreditation exercise and the need to carry out a comprehensive assessment of the state of the university.

She noted that the university she inherited was in a moribund state, plagued by infrastructural decay, unpaid salaries and accreditation challenges, among others.

Professor Omonzejie expressed profound appreciation to Governor Okpebholo for what she described as “life-saving interventions” since his assumption of office.

According to her, the governor’s approval of an increased monthly subvention, restoration of affected staff to the payroll, support for graduating backlog medical students, improved security logistics, and the facilitation of road construction through the Niger Delta Development Commission have significantly revived the institution.

She also formally presented pressing needs requiring urgent attention, including accumulated unpaid salaries, pensions, gratuities and union deductions, as well as the construction of lecture theatres and hostels to enhance accreditation and expand student intake, particularly in the College of Medicine.

The meeting was attended by top government functionaries, including the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilo, Esq.; the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu among others.

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Senator representing Abia South Senatorial District, Enyinnaya Abaribe, has said he will consider defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC) if President Bola Tinubu can fulfil all his conditions.

Naija News reports that Abaribe, speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, stated that the first condition would be a reversal of policies that penalise Nigerians.

The lawmaker stressed that President Tinubu must reduce the size of his government and rein in all those around him.

According to Abaribe, Nigeria is a democracy, not a monarchy, and governance must be carried out in line with democratic principles.

When asked if he would defect to the APC if President Tinubu called him, Abaribe said: “I will give him all the conditions and he can fulfil it. First of all, you must see all your policies, all the policies that punish Nigerians, you reverse them. That is number one.

“Number two, you cut down your government. Number three, you reign in all the people around you. Number four, there are so many things we will tell him.

“It’s up to him what he’s going to do. If you don’t run a government the way it is run… This is not a monarchy. This is a democracy.

“If there’s anybody that’s going to defect to APC, I think I should be the very, very last one. By the time I will defect, that means that there will be no parties in Nigeria.”

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A Nigerian lady shared how a popular church almost ruined her life after she joined. She shared the deep encounter that rescued her from the church.



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Yusuf Magaji Bichi, former Director General of the Department of State Services, DSS,, on Monday stated that the late former President Muhammadu Buhari lacked any tendency to rig elections.

Bichi made the remark during the launch of Buhari’s biography, From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, authored by Dr Charles Omole.

The former DSS chief commended President Bola Tinubu for continuing the legacies of commitment, purposeful leadership, democratic governance, and free and fair elections established by Buhari, saying, “President Buhari will never rig an election.”

Tinubu, for his part, urged Nigerians to carry forward Buhari’s work and legacy.

“A legacy is given greater meaning when those who follow choose to continue what has been started. That is my duty.

“President Buhari loved this country consistently, morning after morning, decision after decision, staying true to the oath he took.

“That is why even those who disagreed with him often acknowledged his honesty.”

Former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Isiaka Amao, also lauded Buhari’s dedication to national service, both as a soldier and as a civilian President.

“Serving under him as Chief of Air Staff during a period of existential security challenges, I observed that he was not merely a Commander-in-Chief issuing orders but a statesman who understood that military powers must always serve democratic governance,” he said.

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A member representing Ijebu North State Constituency and former Minority Whip of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Rasheed Kashamu, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing irreconcilable differences and deep divisions within the party at both state and national levels.

The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide announced Kashamu’s defection on the floor of the Assembly on Tuesday while reading a letter formally notifying the House of his resignation from the PDP and his decision to join the APC.

According to the Speaker, the lawmaker attributed his decision to persistent factional disputes at the national level and leadership tussles within the party in Ogun State.

In his letter, Kashamu said his defection was in line with the decision of his leaders and supporters in Ijebu North to align with progressive forces in the state and to support the policies and programmes of Governor Dapo Abiodun under the ISEYA Agenda, as well as the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He explained that after reviewing the unresolved crises rocking the PDP nationally and considering the mandate and support of his constituents in Ijebu North I, he resolved to move en masse with his supporters into the APC to strengthen the party and contribute to its success in the constituency.

Kashamu informed the House that he had officially joined the APC at his Oke-Sopen Ward in Ijebu-Igbo, Ijebu North Local Government Area, alongside numerous supporters drawn from across the constituency.

His defection was formally acknowledged at the Assembly Complex in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, where his colleagues, led by the Speaker, welcomed him into the APC fold. His wife, uncle and other well-wishers were also present.

Meanwhile, the House also acknowledged a letter from Governor Dapo Abiodun requesting the confirmation of Mr. Abdul Najeem Olayinka as the new Auditor-General for Local Governments, following the retirement of the former Auditor-General, Mr. Lamidi Mulero.

The Speaker directed the nominee to appear before the House on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 12 noon, and to submit 30 copies each of his curriculum vitae and other relevant credentials.

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.Eulogises late predecessor, recalls his integrity, humility, service
.
.There can’t be a better successor to Buhari than Tinubu, says Katsina gov

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that his predecessor, late Muhammadu Buhari taught Nigerians, particularly the politicians, that public office is a sacred trust and not a personal windfall.
This is just as he also paid glowing tribute to the life and legacy of his late predecessor.
Tinubu, who spoke at the official launch of the 606-page biography, “From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari,” held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, described Buhari as a leader whose reputation for integrity, discipline and modest living endured long after leaving office
He stressed that the true measure of Buhari’s leadership was not the offices he occupied or the privileges that came with power, but “what persists when the sirens fall silent,” noting that the late former President left behind a legacy defined by honesty, restraint and a firm belief that leadership is anchored in service.
Tinubu, who described himself as Buhari’s brother, friend and political partner, recalled the political journey they shared together and the coalition-building efforts that culminated in the historic 2015 election victory which unseated an incumbent government and reshaped Nigeria’s political landscape.
According to him, the alliance forged during that period had since evolved into the fastest-growing political party in Africa.
His words: “I stand here not just as President, but as a brother, friend, and political partner who shared a journey with President Buhari through challenging times. Together, we built a broad coalition, campaigned across the country, and proved that Nigeria could chart a new course. Our movement united diverse interests and achieved a historic victory in 2015 by unseating an incumbent president, thus reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape.
The coalition we built in 2014 is now the fastest-growing political party in Africa today. Its growth continues.”
The President said the biography serves as an honest account of Buhari’s life and leadership, outlining both achievements and shortcomings, and urged future leaders to draw lessons from history rather than rely on empty slogans.
He identified humility, security, vision and social justice as the enduring pillars of Buhari’s legacy, noting that the late leader preferred simplicity over extravagance, believed in self-discipline as the foundation of governance, and prioritised national security as the bedrock of prosperity.
Tinubu also highlighted Buhari’s long-term vision for infrastructure development, including roads, railways, bridges and airports, as well as his commitment to targeted social investments aimed at protecting the poor and vulnerable.
He said Buhari’s consistent love for Nigeria and faithfulness to his oath of office earned him respect, even among critics, adding that their political experience together reinforced the importance of cooperation across differences in the task of nation-building.
Tinubu enumerated lasting legacies of his predecessor in areas of security, building social infrastructures and entrenching social justice and restated his commitment to building on it.
“This book reinforces the public’s memory. It outlines achievements and flaws, as all honest histories should. It should motivate future leaders to learn lessons rather than repeat slogans.
“In that spirit, let us reflect on the enduring pillars of President Buhari’s legacy:
“First, humility. President Buhari preferred simplicity over ornamentation. He believed that a leader must first discipline himself before he can discipline a system. He lived modestly, and he carried the dignity of that modesty into power.
“Second, security. President Buhari recognised that security is the foundation of citizenship and prosperity. He invested in platforms and personnel, improved capacities across our armed services, and pushed for reforms that endured beyond the headlines. He understood that safety requires protecting both the state and its citizens.
“Third, vision. He understood the importance of long-term thinking — constructing bridges, restoring railways, building roads, modernising our airports, and renewing critical infrastructure —while prioritising maintenance and sustainability.
“Fourth, social justice. He believed in targeted social investments to ensure that the state did not ignore the poor and vulnerable.
“These are the pillars of his legacy. But a legacy is given greater meaning when those who follow choose to continue what has been started. That is my duty. “
“President Buhari loved this country consistently, morning after morning, decision after decision, staying true to the oath he took. That is why even those who disagreed with him often acknowledged his honesty.
“Our political journey together taught me that cooperation across differences is not weakness; it is wisdom. Nation-building demands that we compete passionately and govern responsibly. President Buhari understood that the contest ends when the oath begins. In his memory, let us keep our politics honourable and our governance focused on results.”
Tinubu vowed that his administration would honour and build upon Buhari’s legacy, stressing that remembrance must go beyond rhetoric to the delivery of tangible results with discipline, compassion and resolve.
“To my dear brother, President Muhammadu Buhari: though you are no longer with us, your impact endures. We will honour and build upon your legacy, not just by invoking your name, but by delivering results with discipline, compassion, and resolve”.
The President commended the author of the book for enriching Nigeria’s collective memory and expressed hope that the biography would inspire young Nigerians as they reflect on leadership and public service.
Earlier in his welcome address, Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Radda, portrayed the late former President as an incorruptible strategist whose leadership was defined by integrity and a deep understanding of national security.
Radda said Buhari’s foresight in security matters and his personal discipline set him apart as a leader committed to the protection of the state and the welfare of its citizens.
He also lauded the collaboration and camaraderie that existed between the later President and his successor, President Tinubu, which culminated in the victory that installed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2015, adding that there could not have been a better successor than Tinubu.
Earlier, author of the biography, Dr. Charles Omole, described the book as the most comprehensive account of the life and legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, explaining that the 600-page work addresses complex questions surrounding his journey, character and leadership.
According to Omole, the book focuses not just on Buhari the public figure, but on the man himself—his guiding principles, values and personal convictions.
He noted that one of Buhari’s enduring legacies is his family, particularly his children, whom he said were raised with forthrightness, balance and strong emotional intelligence.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Buhari’s daughter, Hadiza Nana Buhari, said the biography transcends a mere historical record, capturing instead the rhythm of a life lived with restraint, steadiness and an abiding belief that public office is a sacred trust.
She noted that while the story is not presented as flawless, “as no human story ever is”, it challenges the next generation to build institutions strong enough to translate good intentions into lasting outcomes.
Nana Buhari urged young Nigerians to draw lessons from her father’s life by embracing integrity, moderation and patience in their pursuit of success and service to the nation.
The event was graced by dignitaries from all walks of life including President of The Gambia, Adama Barrow; members of the Buhari family, led by former First Lady, Hajiya Aisha Buhari; traditional rulers, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III; the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III and others.
Also at the event were the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen Buba Marwa (rtd); former Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Isiaka Amoo (rtd); former Director-General of the Department of State Service (DSS), Alhaji Yusuf Bichi; former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo (rtd); and former Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Asamu, who all spoke on their experience with the late former President.

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Manchester United blew the lead three times to miss out on moving up to fifth in the Premier League as Bournemouth would not be beaten in a thrilling 4-4 draw at Old Trafford.

United have lost just once in their last 10 games but Ruben Amorim will be frustrated as more points at home were frittered away despite arguably the best attacking display of his reign in charge.

Amad Diallo and Casemiro gave the hosts a half-time lead either side of Antoine Semenyo’s equaliser.

Two Bournemouth goals from Evanilson and Marcus Tavernier in seven minutes at the start of the second period turned the game around.

The Red Devils roared back through a brilliant Bruno Fernandes free-kick and Matheus Cunha’s second goal for the club.

However, after failing to beat 10-man Everton and struggling West Ham at home in recent weeks, United let another two points slip away.

Eli Junior Kroupi’s fine finish secured a point for Bournemouth, who should have even snatched victory in stoppage time as David Brooks was twice denied by Senne Lammens.

The Cherries’ winless run stretches to seven games but a point edges them up to 13th.

United move ahead of Liverpool on goal difference into sixth.

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