Kayode Tokede  

The Nigerian stock market yesterday closed on a positive note, as renewed buying interest in financial institutions stocks, sustained gains from the previous trading activities.

The Nigerian Exchange Limited All-Share Index ((NGX ASI) rose by 383.71 basis points or 0.26 per cent, to close at 149,842.82 basis points  to  bring the Month-to-Date and Year-to-Date returns at +4.4per cent and +45.6per cent, respectively.

Similarly, the overall market capitalisation value gained N244 billion to close at N95.525 trillion.

Market sentiment was bullish, with 38 advancing stocks outweighing 23 declining counters. Prestige Assurance, Veritas Kapital Assurance, First HoldCo and Lasaco Assurance recorded the highest price gain of 10 per cent each to close at N1.65, N1.76, N39.60 and N2.75 respectively, per share.

MeCure Industries followed with a gain of 9.92 per cent to close at N50.40, while Linkage Assurance rose by 9.70 per cent to close at N1.81, per share.

On the other hand, LivingTrust Mortgage Bank led the losers’ chart by 10 per cent to close at N3.15, per share. International Energy Insurance followed with a decline of 9.92 per cent to close at N2.27, while McNichols declined by 6.90 per cent to close at N2.97, per share.

Omatek Ventures shed 6.84 per cent to close at N1.09, while Chams Holding Company lost 6.41 per cent to close at N2.92, per share.

The total volume of trade increased by 477.38 per cent to 5.925 billion units, valued at N216.194 billion, and exchanged in 25,205 deals. Transactions in the shares of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) topped the activity chart with 5.249 billion shares valued at N168.658 billion. First HoldCo followed with 108.145 million shares worth N4.214 billion, while Sterling Financial Holdings Company traded 87.311 million shares valued at N606.157 million.

FCMB Group traded 74.277 million shares valued at N783.564 million, while Access Holdings transacted 41.508 million shares worth N841.359 million.

On market outlook, Imperial Asset Managers Limited said, “at the equity market session today, Near-term sentiment is expected to remain cautiously optimistic, supported by robust year-to-date performance and sustained interest in fundamentally sound, liquid stocks. However, activity may stay range-bound in the short term, as investors remain selective while positioning ahead of year-end portfolio rebalancing.”

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• Lawyer gears up for nomination

A lawyer and the only female contender in the succession process for the revered Awujale of Ijebuland stool, Dr. Oluwakemi Onanuga, has formally notified the Fusengbuwa Ruling House of her intention to succeed the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, Ogbagba Agbotewole II.

Dr. Onanuga, a partner at Olisa Agbakoba Legal (OAL), submitted her Aspirant’s application to the Olori-Ebi Otunba Lateef Owoyemi (FCA) in Ijebu-Ode.

Her audacious candidacy marks one of the most anticipated declarations since the stool became vacant.

She aspires to follow the footsteps of at least three former female Awujales that history records since the first female, Oba Gadegun, ascended the throne in 1644.

In her letter of intent, the globally trained lawyer and technologist, a direct descendant of the 47th Awujale, His Royal Majesty Oba Adesimbo Tunwase I (Aboki), said her aspiration is rooted in heritage, duty, and a renewed call to service.

“I seek to build upon the firm foundations laid by my forefathers,” she wrote.

In her comments, she paid glowing tributes to the late Oba Adetona: “We give thanks for the long and distinguished reign of the late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, whose stewardship and achievements we remember with much love and respect.”

Dr. Onanuga said her leadership philosophy is anchored on the legacy of Oba Adesimbo Tunwase I, whom she described as a monarch of exceptional foresight.

”My vision is deeply rooted in the legacy of my forefather, Oba Adesimbo Tunwase I, who was a ruler of profound vision. It was he who championed an era of unprecedented religious tolerance and openness, ensuring that Ijebuland became a beacon of diversity, acceptance, and formidable trade,” she said.

She recalled that Ijebuland experienced “its most prosperous period of commerce” under Tunwase I, who opened the kingdom to global trade through engagement with the British monarchy.

“This is the heritage I humbly declare that I embody,” she added.

Dr. Onanuga explained that her aspiration rests on five guiding pillars: unity, cultural pride, education, economic empowerment, and the welfare of elders.

”It is this spirit of enlightened leadership, one that embraces progress while holding fast to our identity, that I seek to reignite.”

”I aspire to extend this proud continuity, honouring the past while boldly addressing our future potential.”

She emphasised that her motivation is rooted not in personal ambition but in duty.

“I present myself not out of ambition alone, but of a sober duty to serve.

“I am fortified by the knowledge that the true strength of a ruler is measured by their service to the people.”

Dr. Onanuga outlined specific priorities she would pursue if chosen by the Afobajes.

These include upholding and advancing the legacy of Ijebu kingship, strengthening traditional institutions and their legal standing, reigniting prosperous commerce through modern infrastructure and economic reforms, championing unity in diversity, as established under Tunwase I; expanding educational opportunities so the populace are job ready, and ensuring the welfare of elders, whom she described as custodians of Ijebu history.

Speaking further in an interview, Dr. Onanuga said her royal heritage imposes a responsibility she can not ignore.

“My driving force is primarily inherent in my bloodline. When you are born a royal, it becomes about duty and nothing else! Imagine if Prince Charles of England or William refused to ascend the throne.”

She outlined a strategic development plan centred on attracting foreign and local investment into Ijebuland in areas such as infrastructure, mega real estate, agricultural modernisation, and renewable energy.

“We must determine what ‘Hub City’ ljebu must become!” she said.

This approach, she believes, will create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve livelihoods.

Dr. Onanuga described herself as a “global citizen,” saying her multinational exposure equips her to reposition Ijebuland.

”I am Nigerian by heritage, British by birth, and American by training and choice. I have amassed years of skills by virtue of this peculiar advantage, so I am a great solutions provider for Ijebuland through my network and skill set,” she declared.

Asked about the challenge of being a woman, she added that it gives her a unique leadership edge.

”My gender is my biggest advantage. I am the only female among the aspirants, and I believe being a woman is actually an advantage for me.”

Born on March 31, 1962, Dr. Onanuga embodies a lineage of service strengthened by a lifetime of global exposure and professional excellence.

From her early years of education at Ladi-Lak Institute and Methodist Girls High School, both in Yaba, Lagos, she has nurtured a passion for leadership that has matured into an extraordinary repertoire of achievements.

She is a US and UK-trained lawyer, an IT and systems professional with nearly 30 years’ experience, and a global advocate who has worked across continents with governments, private institutions, and multilateral bodies.

As a partner at Olisa Agbakoba Legal (OAL), her work combines law, project finance, and policy proposals.

Principal Partner at OAL, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, said: “Dr Onanuga possesses the rare substance required for sovereignty: a formidable intellect, a resilient spirit, and the dignified bearing of tradition while engaging the future. She is tried, tested, and profoundly capable.”

From contesting as a UK councillor in 2002 to being appointed and serving on Nigeria’s 2023 Presidential Campaign Committees, during which she played a key role in the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, she has demonstrated political savvy and top-level connections that will benefit Ijebuland.

With over 30 years in IT-related projects, she has worked with Deloitte Haskins & Sells and served as an intergovernmental liaison person in the UK and US.

She contributed to the then Tony Blair’s New Deal Project in the UK and Barack Obama’s mortgage relief campaign in the US.

 She holds the rare honour of being named a United Nations lifetime Goodwill Ambassador for her role in shaping reforms to the U.S.-Africa Trade Law (AGOA) and her community empowerment projects.

As she prepares for the next stage of the upcoming Obaship  nomination, her career continues to speak to her ability to bridge cultures, mobilise stakeholders, drive reforms, and make history.

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Gunmen disguised in military uniforms have killed a soldier and abducted 13 passengers during coordinated attacks on two commercial vehicles along the Okene–Auchi highway.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-terrorism publication, the incident occurred at about 5:35 pm on Tuesday when gunmen intercepted a green Toyota Sienna, conveying nine passengers from Abuja to Delta State.

The publication reported that six passengers were abducted from the vehicle, while three others were rescued.

Zagazola Makama added that the attackers also stopped a white Toyota Hiace bus, conveying 11 passengers from Delta to Abuja, during the same operation.

“Seven passengers were abducted from the Hiace bus while four were rescued,” Makama reported.

The publication noted that a serving non-commissioned officer of the Nigerian Army, who was among the passengers and had identified himself as a soldier, was shot by the attackers.

“He sustained gunshot injuries to his legs and thighs and was later confirmed dead,” Makama reported.
Both vehicles were recovered and towed to a police station for safe keeping, while five empty shells of 7.62mm ammunition suspected to be from an AK-47 rifle were recovered at the scene as exhibits.

The corpse of the deceased soldier was deposited at the Okengwe general hospital mortuary for autopsy, while statements were obtained from the rescued victims to aid investigation.

Meanwhile, troops have launched joint rescue operations, including bush combing and intensive surveillance along the highway, in order to rescue the abducted passengers and arrest the perpetrators.

The publication said authorities assured motorists that measures were being intensified to secure the Okene–Auchi corridor and prevent further attacks.

Moses Yamu, the public relations officer of the Edo State police command, did not respond to calls and messages at press time.

The post Gunmen kill soldier, abduct 13 passengers on Okene–Auchi highway appeared first on Vanguard News.

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Tension runs high in some communities in Andoni Local Council of Rivers State following a resurgence of cult-related violence, leaving two persons dead and one critically injured.
 
According to sources, the violence erupted on Monday morning, December 15, 2025, at Ngo and Unyengala communities, as suspected members of ‘MEND’ and Iceland cult groups clashed over supremacy and territorial control.
  
The incident has raised concerns that the area may be heading back to the dark days of cult-related killings, unless security agencies and the government urgently intervene.
 
“It is a worrying trend, and we fear for our lives,” a community leader said.
 
Confirming the incident, Spokesperson for Rivers State Police Command, SP Grace Koko, stated that two persons were killed and another critically injured.
 
“The killing is linked to a supremacy battle between two rival cult groups in the area. Security has been beefed up, and investigations are ongoing to arrest members of the cult groups,” she said.

This latest incident follows a similar killing last week, where a person identified as Prince was reportedly shot dead in Andoni.

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Victoria Ojiako 

Stanley Olisa, a prominent voice in Nigeria’s communications sector, has won Corporate Communications Professional of the Year at the 2025 Lagos Public Relations Industry Gala and Awards(LaPRIGA), a leading industry platform recognising excellence in public relations and strategic communications in Nigeria.

The Corporate Communications Professional Award recognises in-house communications leaders who have demonstrated measurable impact in building and protecting organisational reputation while advancing strategic objectives. Olisa, who currently leads global PR at Helpster, was shortlisted alongside senior communications leaders from top organisations— Nestlé and Nigerian Bottling Company Plc.

With a decade of experience across aviation, oil & gas, tech, financial services, health and international development sectors, Olisa was honoured for managing complex, multi-stakeholder communications environments and delivering effective internal and external strategies that strengthened trust and organisational credibility.

Judges highlighted his leadership in reputation management during periods of organisational change, noting clear alignment between communications strategy, executive decision-making and business priorities. His work showed sustained impact on corporate reputation and stakeholder confidence.

Commenting on the recognition, Olisa said the award reflects the growing importance of communications as a leadership function. “Corporate communications is no longer peripheral. It shapes credibility, guides trust and determines how organisations earn their social licence to operate,” he stated.

The LaPRIGA is organised by the Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations to celebrate outstanding professional practice and promote global standards within the communications industry.

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… Assures Niger Delta of accelerated development through NDDC, 

… Backs Ogbia’s requests on infrastructure

… Pledges decisive victory over terrorism, banditry as economy turns the corner

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday charged leaders and people of the Niger Delta to look beyond the region’s years of neglect and work constructively with his administration to accelerate development, assuring them that his government is committed to delivering lasting progress and defeating terrorism and other security threats across the country.

The President spoke while hosting leaders of the Ogbia Kingdom in Bayelsa State at the State House, Abuja, where he acknowledged the historical marginalisation of the oil-producing region but stressed that dwelling on the past would do little to change its fortunes. 

Instead, he said, the focus must now be on collaboration, determination and measurable progress.

“We cannot excuse the neglect of the past, but living in the past will do us no good, except take it and run with it now, carefully,” Tinubu said, assuring the delegation that his administration would work closely with Niger Delta indigenes serving in government, particularly the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku, to deepen development efforts in the region.

Describing the Niger Delta as “the goose that lays the golden egg,” the President admitted that successive administrations had failed to adequately cater for the area, but said the opportunity now exists to correct those shortcomings. 

He praised Dr Ogbuku as “a transformative, committed and highly focused” public servant whose passion for national service has helped refocus attention on the development needs of the Niger Delta.

“Your son, Dr Ogbuku, the MD of the NDDC, is a transformative, committed, highly focused MD. His commitment to duty and love for the nation are noticed by all, including myself,” Tinubu said.

He assured the delegation that infrastructure projects across the region, including roads, street lighting and other community-level interventions, would be sustained. 

“You mentioned the street lights, the roads, the infrastructure development. We will continue with that, and we won’t let you down,” he said, commending the people of the Niger Delta for their contributions to Nigeria’s development in both human and material resources, as well as their commitment to peace.

The President said his administration is already witnessing tangible impacts of ongoing Niger Delta programmes, particularly in expanding economic activities through solar lighting and other initiatives that have extended business hours and improved livelihoods in previously underserved communities.

“When we watch Niger Delta programmes, I see market women and traders enjoying solar light at night in places where before, communities went to sleep by 6:30 or 7pm. That has changed,” he said, adding that such interventions align with his broader goal of ensuring that ordinary Nigerians feel the benefits of economic recovery.

Tinubu noted that the national economy, which he said was in a dire state when his administration took office, has now “turned the corner for good,” stressing that the priority is to translate macroeconomic improvements into real gains for people at the grassroots.

Responding to specific requests from the Ogbia leaders, the President assured them that issues such as erosion control, bridge construction and other infrastructure critical to economic growth would be addressed. 

He also pledged support for educational and historical initiatives, including plans to immortalise Oloibiri as the site of Nigeria’s first oil discovery through the establishment of a dedicated institute.

“We will look into the erosion and tame it. On the bridge, that is infrastructure that promotes economy and progress. We’ll see to that and other areas of collaboration,” he said, adding that he would continue to work closely with Dr Ogbuku and relevant legislators to advance the region’s development agenda.

Tinubu also paid tribute to former President Goodluck Jonathan, describing him as “a good leader and a good son of Nigeria,” and pledged to continue honouring his commitment to democratic values, justice and fairness.

On national security, the President assured the delegation that his administration remains resolute in confronting terrorism, banditry and other forms of insecurity threatening parts of the country. 

He said security forces are making steady progress despite the challenges.

“No matter how long, success is being achieved. We are prosecuting them, arresting them and neutralising some of them, and we will continue to do that. Men and women of the armed forces are fighting very hard to bring peace and stability to the country, and I can guarantee you we will win over terrorism”, Tinubu said.

He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the concerns raised by the Ogbia leaders and expressed confidence that sustained cooperation would help unlock the Niger Delta’s full potential and strengthen national stability.

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By Gift ChapiOdekina

Abuja -The House of Representatives, yesterday, moved closer to overhauling Nigeria’s electoral framework, by approving and amending key clauses of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill aimed at strengthening the powers of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, tightening electoral procedures and addressing gaps exposed during recent elections.

The bill was considered clause-by-clause at plenary, with lawmakers adopting several provisions designed to enhance transparency, improve the conduct of elections and reduce post-election disputes.

Clauses 3, 5 and 6, which deal with preliminary provisions and key interpretations under the Act, were approved to align existing definitions with current electoral practices.

The House also adopted Clauses 10 and 12, reinforcing INEC’s authority over the organisation, supervision and management of elections, including logistics and deployment of electoral personnel.

The lawmakers approved Clauses 18 and 22 on voter registration and the compilation, maintenance and display of the voters’ register, with amendments intended to curb manipulation and ensure greater inclusion of eligible voters.

Significant amendments were made to Clauses 23 and 29, which relate to the nomination of candidates by political parties and the submission of candidates’ lists to INEC. The changes seek to clarify timelines, strengthen compliance and enhance INEC’s oversight of political parties.

Clauses 31, 32 and 34, bordering on party primaries, publication of candidates’ particulars and qualifications for elective offices, were also approved, as part of efforts to address pre-election irregularities.

Further approvals were recorded for Clauses 47, 50 and 54, which touch on voting procedures, voter accreditation and the use of technology in elections, reaffirming the legal backing for INEC’s deployment of electronic systems.

Clause 60, as amended, addresses the declaration of results, while Clause 62 strengthens provisions on the collation, transmission and custody of results to reduce disputes arising from election outcomes.

The House also adopted Clauses 64 and 65 on electoral offences and penalties, signaling a tougher stance against malpractice, including vote-buying and other violations of the law.

Clauses 71 and 73, dealing with election petitions and timelines for the resolution of disputes, were approved, while Clause 74 was adopted with amendments to further streamline post-election legal processes.

The post Reps amend Electoral Act, strengthen INEC powers, defer contentious clause appeared first on Vanguard News.

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The Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA) has once again demonstrated its leadership in advancing Nigeria’s circular economy with the successful completion of the 2025 Christmas Buyback Program in Somolu Local Government.

The event recorded strong community participation, significant recovery of post-consumer packaging waste, and heightened public awareness of responsible disposal.

The exercise, which was held at 20 Anifowoshe Street, Somolu, brought together over 240 residents, including youth groups, women, artisans, and local business owners.

Dignitaries and institutional stakeholders were also present, including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, representatives of the Federal Ministry of Environment, NESREA, LAWMA, the Department of Environment, Somolu Local Government and Community Development Council, FBRA member companies, and volunteers.

Following the formal welcome and stakeholder remarks, FBRA led attendees on a one-hour environmental awareness walk, engaging members of the community and sensitising households on the economic and environmental value of recycling.

By the close of the buyback session, FBRA had collected an impressive 1.8 metric tons of recyclable waste, including PET bottles, glass bottles, aluminium cans, used beverage cartons, and other post-consumer packaging materials.

These materials will be processed through Trashusers, FBRA’s collection partner for the exercise, ensuring they are channelled back into productive use within the circular economy rather than ending up in landfills or drainage systems.

The Somolu Christmas Buyback underscores FBRA’s commitment to supporting member companies in fulfilling their Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mandate, as highlighted by the Executive Director, Agharese Lucia Onaghise.

Through sustained grassroots engagement and community-driven initiatives, FBRA continues to champion responsible waste management practices and strengthen national recycling systems.

FBRA expressed appreciation to Somolu Local Government, community leaders, partners, and residents for their cooperation and enthusiasm, affirming its commitment to expanding environmental impact across more communities in Lagos and beyond.

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Burkina Faso has released 11 personnel of the Nigerian Air Force nine days after their detention, following what Nigerian officials described as intensive diplomatic engagements between Abuja and Ouagadougou.

The airmen, comprising pilots and crew members of the Nigerian Air Force, were freed shortly after a high-level Nigerian delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, concluded talks with Burkinabè authorities in the capital.

The development was confirmed by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, as the release followed “sustained diplomatic engagement and dialogue at the highest levels.”

According to a statement sighted on X, the engagements included a meeting with Burkina Faso’s leader, Ibrahim Traoré, during which Nigeria pressed for the immediate release of its detained personnel.

Speaking after the breakthrough, Tuggar said the outcome underscored the importance Nigeria places on diplomacy and regional cooperation. “We engaged our brothers in Burkina Faso frankly and constructively, and we are pleased that our personnel have now been released,” he said, noting that Nigeria remained committed to resolving misunderstandings through dialogue.

The statement also clearly explained the circumstances surrounding the flight and assured the Burkinabè authorities of Nigeria’s respect for their sovereignty,” adding that the matter was handled “in a spirit of African solidarity.

Burkinabè officials, in turn, acknowledged the discussions and agreed that continued cooperation between Nigeria and Burkina Faso was essential, particularly as both countries confront shared security challenges in the Sahel.

The released air force personnel are expected to return to Nigeria after routine administrative procedures, while diplomatic sources said both sides agreed to strengthen communication channels to prevent similar incidents in the future.

ALSO READ: Reps probe detained military personnel, aircraft in Burkina Faso

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will on Friday present the 2026 Appropriation Bill before a joint session of the National Assembly.

Naija News reports that this was disclosed in a statement on Wednesday by the Secretary, Human Resources and Staff Development, Essien Eyo Essien, for the Clerk to the National Assembly, CNA, Kamoru Ogunlana.

The statement read, “I am directed to inform you that the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is presenting the 2026 proposed Budget to the Joint Session of the National Assembly at 2:00 pm, on Friday, 19th December, 2025.

“Consequently, all accredited persons must endeavour to be at their duty posts by 11:00 am, otherwise they would not be allowed access into the Complex for security reasons. Non-accredited persons should stay away from the National Assembly on that day.

“Except for the CNA, DCNA, CS, CHR and their Deputies, every other Member of Staff is required to park his/her vehicle at available spaces at the Annex or the new car park by NASS Gate.

“Please, ensure compliance by all those concerned.”

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