Author: Dodo Elias Denen

The Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Nnaemeka Ignatius Ilo, has formally inaugurated Course 1/2026 of the Pre-Retirement/Pre-Discharge Programme, charging participants to embrace discipline, purposeful learning and adaptability as they prepare for life after active military service.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the NAFRC Buhari Hall, AVM Ilo described the Centre as a “citadel of courage and hope,” noting that its motto reflects the core values required for a successful transition from military to civil life. He congratulated the participants on their nomination for what he described as a highly competitive and prestigious course designed to equip personnel with relevant skills for post-service survival and prosperity.

According to him, the Centre’s mandate remains the provision of quality training, research and development, as well as consultancy services aimed at adequately preparing retiring personnel to face the realities and challenges of civil society. He explained that the six-month course features a robust blend of theoretical and practical training focused on entrepreneurship, self-reliance, job creation and sustainable living.

AVM Ilo disclosed that feedback from past participants showed that many graduates of the Centre had gone on to become successful entrepreneurs across diverse sectors of the economy, expressing confidence that the current participants would equally emerge competitive and productive in the open market.

He cautioned the participants against underestimating the realities of civil life, describing it as largely unstructured and fiercely competitive when compared to the regimented military environment. Stressing the importance of emotional intelligence and self-control, he advised them to prepare mentally for the differences in work culture, time management and interpersonal relations outside the Armed Forces.

The Commandant also emphasized the primacy of family, urging participants to see the course as an investment not only in themselves but also in their families, who depend on their successful transition. He underscored the importance of dedication, diligence and effective time management, noting that optimal use of the training period would largely determine individual success.

On discipline, AVM Ilo reiterated that high standards of comportment and regimentation would be maintained throughout the course. He further warned that the Defence Headquarters’ directive on the misuse of social media remains fully applicable within the Centre, stressing that violations would attract severe sanctions, including dismissal from the course and further disciplinary action.

He expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Minister of Defence and the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for their support and commitment to the resettlement and welfare of retiring personnel.

In an interaction with journalists, AVM Ilo said the Centre is intensifying efforts to modernise its training approach by leveraging technology, including the gradual introduction of Artificial Intelligence modules. He explained that while AI is currently being introduced in phases due to the age profile of participants, it would eventually become a full course for future intakes as part of efforts to align NAFRC with international best practices.

Earlier, the newly appointed Director of Training, Brigadier General Isang Akpaumontia, described the inauguration as the formal commencement of training activities for Course 1/2026. He revealed that a total of 823 participants were posted to the course, comprising 523 personnel from the Nigerian Army, 122 from the Nigerian Navy and 178 from the Nigerian Air Force.

Of this number, he said 718 participants had been duly received, documented, accommodated and medically screened, while 85 were declared medically unfit and returned to their units for further treatment. He assured that arrangements had been made to complete the documentation and biometric capture of the affected personnel ahead of graduation.

Brig. Gen. Akpaumontia reiterated that the Centre is a world-class institution dedicated to entrepreneurship and management training, aimed at ensuring a seamless reintegration of personnel into contemporary civil society after decades of meritorious service. He reminded participants that the course is fully residential and urged them to uphold discipline and conduct befitting their ranks as senior representatives of their respective services.

Smile Communications has unveiled a fully upgraded portfolio of data plans designed to give Nigerians significantly more value at considerably lower prices.

The newly introduced Smile MINI, Smile MIDI, Smile JUMBO, Smile MAXI, and Smile ANNUAL plans reflect the company’s commitment to delivering smarter, more customer-centric connectivity options for a market whose data needs continue to evolve rapidly.

This strategic refresh is the result of more than one year of extensive consumer research, during which Smile engaged users across multiple regions to understand what truly shapes data usage, satisfaction, and recommendation. The outcome is a simplified, value-driven plan architecture deliberately structured to make Smile’s brand name top-of-mind — with every plan family now beginning with the word Smile which is exactly what the brand wants consumers to do.

*More Data* . Lower Prices. Same Trusted Quality.
Across the board, every new plan bundle delivers higher data volumes at reduced price points, reaffirming Smile’s position as a provider that genuinely listens to consumer needs.

*Smile MINI Plans*
These are the daily and weekly plans — redesigned for affordability, flexibility, and convenience. Perfect for consumers who recharge frequently or need fast, reliable access on the go.

*Smile MIDI Plans*
The monthly plans, now enhanced with more data for less. These are ideal for professionals, streamers, students, and everyday users who rely on stable connectivity to power their digital lives.

*Smile JUMBO Plans*
Long-validity plans that bridge monthly and annual cycles, offering extended usage periods without long-term commitment. Suitable for families, SMEs, smart homes, and power users looking for dependable data that lasts.

*Smile MAXI Plans*
Unlimited plans crafted for heavy data users — whether at home, in the office, or constantly on the move. These plans ensure uninterrupted high-speed connectivity for creators, gamers, remote teams, and anyone who needs consistent, worry-free access.

*Smile ANNUAL Plans*
The ultimate in long-term value, offering massive data allocations and cost savings for users who prefer the convenience of a full-year commitment.
Across all categories, one theme remains clear: More Value, Price Crash.
A Change Driven by the Voice of the Consumer
For over 12 months, Smile Communications has been immersed in consumer behaviour, habits, and expectations — analysing trends, studying usage patterns, and engaging directly with customers to understand what makes them stay, switch, or recommend a provider.

The answer was consistent:
Consumers want data that lasts, prices that make sense, plans that fit their lifestyles, and a service provider that evolves with them.
Smile listened. Then Smile acted.

According to Olagoke Olaleye, Head of Marketing Operations at Smile Communications,
“This transformation is not just a pricing shift — it is the direct outcome of listening to Nigerians. For over a year, we immersed ourselves in the real experiences of our users: how they work, stream, learn, secure their homes, run their businesses and stay connected. What we heard was clear — people want more value without compromise.

These new Smile plans deliver exactly that.”
To reinforce its commitment to customer satisfaction, Smile deliberately timed the launch of these improved plans to coincide with the Yuletide and New Year season — a period when families connect more, businesses wrap up critical activities, and consumers rely heavily on data. Described as a year-end gift to customers across all regions where Smile operates, the timing ensures users step into the festive period and the New Year with more value, more convenience, and dramatically reduced data costs.

*Reshaping the Market* *with Consumer-First* *Innovation.*
With this launch, Smile Communications signals a new era—one where Nigerians no longer have to choose between affordability and performance. The company’s renewed consumer-first approach is not only redefining value but also reinforcing Smile’s role as a trusted driver of innovation in the telecoms sector.

For millions of Nigerians who depend on data to work, create, learn, stream, bank, trade, and stay connected, this portfolio upgrade represents more than new plan names — it is a promise of more, delivered thoughtfully and at the perfect time.

The Secretary-General of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), Ian Saunders, has described Nigeria’s Time Release Study (TRS) as a practical and evidence-based reform capable of strengthening border efficiency, boosting trade competitiveness within trade corridors in Africa and enhancing national safety.

Saunders stated this on Monday, 26th January 2026, during the presentation of the TRS Report conducted at Tin Can Island Port, noting that the study offers Nigeria “specific and objective insights” into how its border clearance processes function and where targeted improvements can be made.

According to him, the TRS, implemented with the support of the WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, goes beyond policy formulation by translating reform goals into measurable operational outcomes.

“The findings of this study provide Nigeria with a clear opportunity to deliver equally clear improvements that will strengthen both the economy and the safety of the country,” Saunders said.

He stressed that the Time Release Study is one of the WCO’s core performance measurement tools, widely deployed by Customs administrations globally to improve transparency, predictability and efficiency without compromising security.

The WCO chief noted that while Customs plays a central role in trade facilitation, the successful implementation of TRS recommendations requires collective action involving government agencies, the private sector and the broader trading community.

“Trade facilitation is not achieved by policy alone. It is realised through consistent, efficient and sound practices. The Time Release Study shows what is working, what is not, and where leadership and investment are required.” He added.

While delivering a keynote address, the Special Guest of Honour, Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, said the Time Release Study aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to data-driven reforms to improve trade efficiency and reduce transaction costs across Nigeria’s ports and borders.

Uzoka-Anite described the TRS as a strategic policy instrument that enables governments to objectively measure performance, identify bottlenecks and strengthen transparency within the trade ecosystem.

“The Time Release Study is not merely a diagnostic exercise; it is a reform tool that supports smarter regulation, evidence-based decision-making and improved coordination across border agencies.” The Minister said.

She noted that efficient clearance processes are essential to investor confidence and economic growth, adding that competitiveness in global trade is increasingly defined by speed, certainty and compliance.

The Minister assured stakeholders of the Federal Government’s continued support for reforms that modernise border management, strengthen institutional capacity and promote collaboration among agencies involved in trade regulation.

While making her remarks, the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, applauded the Service for taking the lead in addressing systemic bottlenecks and strengthening trade facilitation processes, noting that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to improving efficiency across Nigeria’s trade ecosystem

In his remarks, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said the Service is institutionalising the Time Release Study as part of its broader reform agenda to improve cargo clearance efficiency and service delivery.

CGC Adeniyi explained that the study provides credible data on cargo dwell time, enabling Customs and partner agencies to identify procedural overlaps, eliminate delays and streamline clearance processes.

“The Time Release Study allows us to move from assumptions to facts. It tells us exactly where time is lost and where reforms must be focused to achieve measurable improvements.” He said.

He stressed that the Service remains committed to facilitating legitimate trade while maintaining strict compliance and security standards, noting that faster clearance must go hand in hand with adequate controls.

Similarly, the representative of the United Kingdom High Commission to Nigeria commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its proactive adoption of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) trade facilitation tools, notably the Time Release Study (TRS) scheme, which is supported by an initiative of His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

In the same vein, Deputy Comptroller General (DCG) in charge of Strategic Research and Policy (SR&P) Department, Dera Nnadi, who shared insights from the TRS report, asserted that the outcome of the study will guide operational adjustments, policy refinement and infrastructure planning, as the Service works with stakeholders to deliver a more predictable and efficient trade environment.

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has congratulated renowned actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele, on the exceptional box office performance of her latest film, Behind The Scene (BTS), which has reportedly grossed over ₦2.4 billion at the Nigerian box office and is still enjoying strong cinema exhibition across the country. The Board described the achievement as another landmark moment in the growth of Nigerian cinema, noting that the record further reinforces Ms. Akindele’s position as one of the most influential and commercially successful figures in the industry.

In a statement issued by the Executive Director/CEO of the NFVCB, Dr. Shaibu Husseini, the Board highlighted the significance of the filmmaker’s sustained box office dominance, observing that she has now recorded record-shattering cinema performances for four consecutive years.

“This level of consistency reflects not only creative excellence, but also a deep understanding of audience engagement and the evolving dynamics of film production, distribution, and exhibition in Nigeria,” the statement noted.

As the statutory body responsible for the regulation of film content, distribution, and exhibition in Nigeria, the NFVCB reaffirmed its commitment to recognizing and celebrating excellence that contributes meaningfully to the growth, visibility, and commercial sustainability of the Nigerian audiovisual industry.

In recognition of this exceptional run, the Board disclosed plans to formally honour Funke Akindele with a Box Office Queen Award for the years 2023, 2024, and 2025, with arrangements underway to present the award at a date and time that will be mutually convenient for her and her team. ‘We had planned to hand the awards for her ack to back performance during the last PAO Digital Conference but the filmmaker was busy and asked to receive the awards at a later day. With this feat, we will get the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa and a few top female executives to join us to make the presentation. The Minister is excited about the development’ the Executive Director said.

In a related development, the NFVCB has also commended actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham on the outstanding box office success of her directorial debut, Oversabi Auntie, which has grossed over ₦1 billion in cinema earnings nationwide. The Board described the feat as a historic achievement, noting that the film’s performance places it among the four highest-grossing Nollywood films of all time, while also marking a successful and impressive entry by Ms. Abraham into film directing.

According to the statement, the success of Oversabi Auntie underscores Ms. Abraham’s versatility and growing creative influence, as well as the expanding possibilities for filmmakers who are redefining storytelling and audience connection in contemporary Nollywood. ‘’We at the NFVCB congratulate both filmmakers on their respective milestones. We consider their achievements as strong indicators of the industry’s continued growth, resilience, and global promise’, the ED concluded.

The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas (Admiralty Medal), has approved the appointment of Captain Abiodun Abidemi Folorunsho as the new Director of Naval Information and Spokesperson of the Nigerian Navy.

Captain Folorunsho formally assumed duty on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, taking over from Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, who served in the position for over two years. Adams-Aliu has since been redeployed to a higher strategic appointment as the Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, the Navy’s premier operational base.

In a statement signed by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Rear Admiral A.O. Olodude, the Nigerian Navy noted that Captain Folorunsho brings to the office a wealth of operational, academic and strategic experience.

Born on December 27, 1979, in Benin City, Edo State, Captain Folorunsho began his education at Olua Primary School, Benin City, and Army Command Children School, Zaria, before proceeding to the Nigerian Military School, Zaria. He was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1998 as a member of the 50 Regular Course and was commissioned a Sub-Lieutenant in September 2003.

The new Naval Spokesperson holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Nigerian Defence Academy. He also possesses multiple postgraduate qualifications, including a Master’s degree in War Studies (Maritime) from the National Defence University, Islamabad; a Master’s degree in International Affairs and Defence Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy; a Master’s degree in Energy Management from the World Maritime University, Malmö, Sweden; and a Master of Arts degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the United States Naval War College, Rhode Island. He additionally holds a Graduate Certificate in Ethics and Emerging Military Technology from the same institution.

Captain Folorunsho has attended several local and international professional courses, including the Junior Staff Course at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji; the Senior Staff Course at the Pakistan Navy War College, Lahore; the United Nations Staff Officers Course in Sweden; the Naval Warfare Course at the Naval War College of Nigeria, Calabar; and the Higher Defence Management Course at the United States Naval War College in 2023.

Throughout his career, he has served onboard several Nigerian Navy ships and key shore establishments, held command and instructional appointments, participated in internal security operations, and served as a Military Liaison Officer with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. He has also contributed to the Navy’s indigenous shipbuilding programme at the Naval Dockyard Limited, Lagos, and was recently Assistant Director, Plans/CNS Directive at Naval Headquarters.

Widely regarded as a seasoned officer with strong communication credentials, Captain Folorunsho has extensive experience in editorial work, public speaking, protocol management and strategic communication across tri-service platforms.

He is a recipient of several awards and decorations, including multiple Chief of the Naval Staff Awards, the United Nations Medal and other service honours. He is married to Mrs. Olawunmi Folorunsho, and the marriage is blessed with two children.

The Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, on Monday, 26 January 2026, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ongoing reforms within the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), describing the Service as a critical institution at the intersection of revenue mobilisation, national security and trade facilitation.

The Minister spoke at the Ladi Kwali Hall in Abuja during the 2026 International Customs Day celebration, where she commended officers and men of the Service for sustaining professionalism under increasing public and economic expectations.

In her address, Uzoka-Anite said “Federal Government recognises Customs as a strategic partner in the implementation of fiscal, monetary and structural reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”, noting that efficient border management remains central to economic stability and growth.

According to her, “Nigeria Customs Service has demonstrated that revenue assurance, trade facilitation and border security can be pursued simultaneously when institutions are guided by integrity, data-driven decision-making and strong leadership”, she said.

She assured stakeholders that the Federal Ministry of Finance would continue to provide policy direction and institutional support to strengthen Customs capacity, improve transparency and modernise operations across the country’s ports and border formations.

In his remarks, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed that the NCS generated a total revenue of N7.281 trillion in 2025, exceeding its approved annual target of N6.584 trillion.

According to the CGC, “this performance represents a significant year-on-year growth and reflects the impact of disciplined enforcement, improved compliance, process automation and sustained engagement with the trading community”, he added.

He noted that, beyond revenue, the Service intensified efforts to protect society through intelligence-led operations, leading to thousands of seizures of prohibited and harmful goods, including narcotics, illicit pharmaceuticals, arms, ammunition, wildlife products, and substandard consumer items.

CGC Adeniyi pointed out that, “these interventions were aimed at safeguarding public health, protecting the environment and strengthening national security, while ensuring that legitimate trade was not hindered.”

“The NCS remains committed to striking the right balance between facilitation and control, ensuring that lawful trade flows seamlessly without compromising security or revenue.” CGC Adeniyi said.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Customs, Honourable Leke Abejide, stressed the need for greater recognition of the NCS within the country’s security architecture.

The lawmaker pledged continued legislative backing for reforms that strengthen the Service, saying, “Anything that improves the welfare, capacity and operational efficiency of the Nigeria Customs Service has my full support.”

In her remarks, the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, commended the NCS for its role in facilitating trade and securing Nigeria’s borders, describing the Service as a key partner in the country’s economic transformation drive.

She noted that “efficient Customs operations are essential to improving Nigeria’s competitiveness, attracting investment and supporting industrial growth, particularly at a time when the government is focused on expanding non-oil revenue”, she added.

Oduwole aligned with calls for deeper inter-agency collaboration, stressing that trade facilitation and national security must move in tandem to deliver meaningful economic outcomes.

The Comptroller-General of Customs(CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has charged younger officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to aspire toward global expertise in Post Clearance Audit (PCA), describing the tool as a cornerstone for modern customs careers and the future of Nigerian trade facilitation.

Speaking at the conclusion of the 5-day WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme on January 23, 2026, at NCS Headquarters in Abuja, Adeniyi emphasised that mastering these emerging audit techniques is the most effective way for new recruits to align their professional growth with international best practices.

“For the younger officers who are here. For you, this might be the first time you’re experiencing this kind of thing. But our respected WCO experts started from somewhere. Post Clearance Audit is one of those emerging tools developed by WCO, and this is the best way in which you can start your career”, he advised.

He continues, “I want you to begin to look to your aspiration. Let it be shaped towards that dream that, one day, you can also become a PCA expert”.

The CGC further described the 5-day engagement as insightful and transformative. He noted that the discussions and practical sessions exposed officers to advanced Post Clearance Audit tools and techniques that would significantly enhance their analytical capacity and operational effectiveness.

According to the CGC, the workshop provided officers with clearer perspectives on modern audit practices, risk management and compliance monitoring, stressing that the knowledge gained would directly support trade facilitation while safeguarding revenue and national economic interests.

He reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to continuous reform, effective collaboration with international partners and the deployment of modern tools to align Nigeria’s customs administration with global best practices.

While speaking, WCO Trade Facilitation Expert, James Clark, commended the NCS for its demonstrated willingness to embrace reform and modern customs practices. He noted that the Service has made commendable progress within a relatively short period.

Clark highlighted the importance of institutional commitment, capacity building and consistent application of Post Clearance Audit tools in achieving long-term success, adding that Nigeria is well-positioned to deepen its gains if the momentum is maintained.

“We are always looking for that time when you will reach what we call the impact level. Impact level means you have created a more effective, more facilitative trading environment. I have the utmost confidence in your ability to do this”, he remarks

He added, “I want to thank you all for your commitment this week and for engaging with the experts and with me for the past 5 days. Do not hesitate to reach out to us going forward”.

The 5-day WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, funded by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs of the United Kingdom, ran from 19 to 23 January 2026 and focused on strengthening customs reforms, with particular emphasis on Post Clearance Audit (PCA) and risk-based compliance management.

The conclusion of the WCO Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme marks another milestone in the Nigeria Customs Service’s ongoing efforts to promote ease of doing business, strengthen compliance, and position the country as a competitive and reliable trading partner on the global stage.

Sterling One Foundation, in collaboration with the Office of the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the United Nations System, and partners of the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS) will convene the ASIS 2026 High-Level Policy Engagement on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

The session will bring together senior government leaders, chief executives, development partners, investors, and civil society leaders to advance results-driven partnerships for inclusive growth, foundational learning, women and youth empowerment, and national development
delivery.

The engagement, co-hosted by the Office of the Vice President, and Sterling One Foundation, will serve as a national platform to translate continental commitments into country-level action aligning policy reform, private sector mobilisation, and development finance around
Nigeria’s most urgent priorities, including education, jobs, skills, financial inclusion, health, entrepreneurship, and institutional strengthening.

Themed “Scaling Action Driving Inclusive Growth through Policy and Innovation,” the highlevel engagement will bring together over 200 senior leaders from government, private enterprise, development institutions, civil society, and the diplomatic community. With only five years left to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the convening is designed to drive policy reforms, unlock innovative and blended financing, and accelerate implementation across Nigeria’s most critical development priorities.

Now in its fifth year, the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS) has become a leading private sector-led continental platform for mobilizing public-private collaboration to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals. Co-convened by Sterling One Foundation and the United Nations, ASIS has consistently elevated the role of policy innovation, partnerships, and impact financing in addressing Africa’s most pressing social and economic challenges.

Building on this foundation, the ASIS 2026 High-Level Policy Engagement will focus on
translating the insights and recommendations from past ASIS communiqués into actionable
national policies and financing frameworks.

The engagement aims to embed ASIS commitments into Nigeria’s policy ecosystem, elevate priority sectors as national imperatives, and mobilise capital toward measurable SDG outcomes.

Key highlights of the engagement include the launch of flagship, policy-backed initiatives, notably the Business Coalition for Education (BCE) and the Nigeria Foundational Learning Fund designed to accelerate foundational literacy and numeracy addressing the country’s out-of-school children challenge.

Also, the Women and Youth Financial and Economic Inclusion (WYFEI) Nigeria, the country’s flagship platform for advancing women and youth economic empowerment through compact-based delivery, co-investment frameworks, and performance accountability, will also be launched. It will be the country implementation platform of the African Union WYFEI programme.

Speaking ahead of the engagement, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
said: “Nigeria’s future prosperity depends on how effectively we mobilise the private
sector, development partners, and public institutions around shared national priorities. This engagement marks a critical step toward delivery-driven partnerships that unlock the full potential of our women and youth, strengthen human capital, and accelerate inclusive growth.”

According to Mrs. Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, “ASIS 2026 High Level Policy Engagement represents a pivotal shift from conversation to national execution. By deliberately aligning policy, innovation, and financing, we are catalysing a framework that enables solutions to scale,
delivering real impact for millions of Nigerians while positioning Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s sustainable growth agenda.”

The event will also feature the adoption of the WYFEI Nigeria Declaration, a national statement of intent to be endorsed by government leaders, CEOs, and development partners, committing to coordinated action to unlock Nigeria’s women and youth dividend.

Anchored within the UN SDG Stimulus Framework and aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, the ASIS 2026 High-Level Policy Engagement reinforces Nigeria’s leadership in translating continental and global commitments into national action, focused on inclusive growth, shared prosperity, and long-term resilience.

The convening forms part of the post–Africa Social Impact Summit national action series
designed to move beyond dialogue to systems reform, capital mobilisation, and measurable impact across Africa’s largest economy.

The Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS), co-convened by the Sterling One Foundation and the United Nations, is a premier platform for accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovation, financing, and partnerships. Since 2022, ASIS has convened leaders across sectors to co-create actionable solutions that advance
sustainable development in Africa. For more informationvisithttps://theimpactsummit.org

Sterling One Foundation (SOF) is a registered non-profit focused on tackling the root causes of poverty in Nigeria, and Africa through interventions and social impact programmes across three critical sectors namely: health, education and climate action & food security. Gender Equality and women empowerment are integrated as a cross-cutting priority across all our programming areas. The Foundation’s programmes adopt a central theme of prioritizing partnerships for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As the National Assembly resumes legislative duties for the 2026 session, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called on the 10th National Assembly to refocus on governance, accountability, and critical reforms, warning against the dangers of early electioneering ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), described 2026 as a defining year for both the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration and the current legislature, stressing that Nigerians now expect tangible outcomes from policies and programmes introduced since 2023.

“While citizens have shown patience in the early phase of this administration, often attributing prevailing socio-economic and democratic challenges to teething problems of a new government, 2026 naturally marks a period of maturity,” Rafsanjani said. “This is the stage at which policies must begin to deliver visible and measurable benefits to Nigerians, and the role of the National Assembly in achieving this cannot be overstated.”

CISLAC expressed concern that 2026 precedes the 2027 General Elections, a period historically associated with declining legislative productivity due to heightened political activities.

The organisation warned that public anxiety could be further deepened if the proposal to conduct general elections as early as November 2026 is pursued.

“Nigerians are worried and rightly so that governance may once again be sacrificed on the altar of politicking and electioneering,” Rafsanjani noted. “At a time when the country is grappling with economic hardship, worsening insecurity, rising public debt, governance deficits, and declining public trust in institutions, Nigeria cannot afford a distracted or compromised legislature.”

According to CISLAC, the current national challenges demand a fully functional, responsive, and accountable National Assembly, rather than one perceived as absentee, politically distracted, or a rubber stamp for the executive.

As part of its expectations for the 2026 legislative year, CISLAC outlined key priority areas for lawmakers.

First, CISLAC urged lawmakers to remain committed to plenary sessions, committee engagements, and oversight responsibilities, cautioning against frequent absences and unnecessary recesses driven by political ambitions.

Second, the organisation called for the fast tracking of critical legislative reforms, particularly electoral, economic, security, and governance related bills. Drawing lessons from the 2023 general elections, CISLAC stressed that electoral reform remains a core demand of Nigerian citizens and must not be delayed.

Third, CISLAC emphasised the need for strengthened legislative oversight to promote transparency and accountability, especially in budget implementation, public procurement, and the management of public funds.

Rafsanjani warned that failure to exercise robust oversight would further entrench public perception of the Assembly as a rubber stamp institution.

Finally, CISLAC cautioned the National Assembly against becoming an early casualty of the 2027 election cycle.

“Nigerians elected lawmakers to legislate and provide oversight, not to abandon governance long before the official campaign period,” Rafsanjani said. “The legislature is the backbone of any democratic system, and in 2026, the National Assembly must rise to this responsibility with integrity, discipline, and a clear commitment to the public interest.”

CISLAC reaffirmed its readiness to engage constructively with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to advance reforms that strengthen democracy, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.

Golden Morn, Nigeria’s beloved cereal brand, is thrilled to announce the launch of a nationwide consumer promotion running from January 10 to April 15, 2026. This exciting initiative offers over ₦80 million in cash and fantastic prizes, designed to reward our loyal consumers for their continued support.

According to a statement signed by the Corporate Affairs Manager Nestlé Nigeria PLC, Toju Egbebi, participants can look forward to winning exciting prizes, including cash rewards of up to ₦5 million, laptops, televisions, mobile phones, washing machines, and airtime. All you need to do is purchase any Golden Morn 30g or 45g special promo pack from your favorite store. Inside each pack, you will find a unique code. Simply dial *8011*1# and follow the prompts to enter your code for a chance to win!

Winners will be selected in bi-weekly draws, providing multiple opportunities to win throughout the promotion period.

Omofasa Orhiunu, Category Manager for Healthy Cereals at Nestlé Nigeria, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “This promotion reflects Golden Morn’s commitment to nourishing families and rewarding our consumers for choosing our brand as part of their daily routines. We understand the importance of daily nourishment in Nigerian households, and this is our way of giving back to families who trust Golden Morn.”

Golden Morn is not just a delicious breakfast choice; it is also a source of essential nutrients made from locally sourced grains. By supporting local farmers, Golden Morn contributes to the livelihoods of communities across Nigeria, ensuring that families can enjoy nutritious meals while also uplifting the agricultural sector. This promotion is an opportunity to celebrate the everyday choices Nigerians make to care for themselves and their families.
The impressive ₦80 million prize pool reflects Golden Morn’s dedication to creating meaningful value for consumers. The rewards have been thoughtfully selected to meet everyday needs, from essential airtime to valuable household items, and significant cash prizes that can truly transform lives.

The Golden Morn promo runs till April 15, 2026. Consumers are encouraged to look out for the special promo packs in stores and take advantage of the opportunity to win while enjoying their favourite cereal.

Nestlé Nigeria is a leading food and beverage company committed to unlocking the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone today and for future generations. With a wide range of products, including popular brands such as NESTLÉ PURELIFE, GOLDEN MORN, MILO, MAGGI and NESCAFÉ, Nestlé Nigeria is dedicated to providing nutritious and delicious food and beverages to consumers across Nigeria.