Author: Dodo Elias Denen

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on Friday 14 November, 2025, engaged journalists at the State House Press Pool, Abuja, where he outlined Nigeria’s renewed commitment to deepening continental trade integration and strengthening Customs-led reforms ahead of the maiden Customs Partnership for African Cooperation in Trade (C-PACT) Conference scheduled for 17–19 November 2025 in Abuja.

The CGC, who spoke under the State House “Meet the Press” platform, said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent approval of an extension of his mandate came with clear performance targets focused on trade facilitation, port decongestion, and modernisation of Nigeria’s cross-border systems.

He noted that the President’s policy directives reflect a deliberate shift towards using trade as a major engine of economic expansion, saying the administration is determined to reposition Nigeria as a central hub for intra-African commerce.

“Mr President has made it very clear that he intends to use trade to promote economic development and alleviate poverty. So I was not surprised that the implementation of the continental free trade agreement was specifically mentioned in my renewed mandate.” He said.

The Customs CG further explained that since receiving the directive, he has intensified engagements with his counterparts across Africa, including a recent strategic meeting in Ghana with the Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He said the NCS is pushing for greater involvement of Customs administrations in implementing the free trade regime, insisting that sustainable integration cannot happen without Customs at the centre.

He added, “For many years, regional trade arrangements struggled because Customs was not brought in early enough. I have made this point repeatedly: if we must achieve the objectives of AfCFTA, Customs must play its role in enforcing rules of origin, applying preferences, and ensuring that goods genuinely enjoy the benefits of the agreement.”

CGC Adeniyi said the forthcoming C-PACT Summit, which Nigeria will host in Abuja from 17th to 19th November, represents a major step in correcting past gaps and opening direct engagement between African Customs administrations, policymakers and private-sector operators.

He confirmed that more than 30 Customs administrations have registered for the summit, with 22 of them led by Directors-General, adding that the surge in private-sector interest is the most encouraging indicator so far.

The CGC disclosed that Nigeria will, for the first time, host the Secretary-General of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), Ian Sanders, during the conference.

He described the development as a significant recognition of Nigeria’s increasing leadership role in continental trade diplomacy.

He also highlighted the growing momentum in Nigeria’s export performance, saying volumes have increased by more than 30 per cent in the past two years, emphasising, “the current challenge is to redirect more of this trade towards African markets.”

He acknowledged strong support from the Federal, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Industry Trade and Investment, the AFREXIMBANK Bank, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, port authorities and other agencies involved in cross-border trade, noting that their alignment has created “a historic window” for Nigeria to take command of its role in Africa’s economic transformation.

CGC Adeniyi urged the State House Press to help raise public awareness ahead of the Abuja summit, saying the first day of the programme will feature direct conversations with private-sector operators from across Africa to uncover the persistent barriers they face in moving goods across the continent.

Residents of Ogombo, Lekki, Ajah and it’s environs have been enjoying an unrivalled level of spiritual revival since the Grace Nation Church International ignited a fire of apostolic explosion in Lagos early this week.

The conference tagged, ‘Ogombo Apostolic Visitation’ began on Wednesday with thousands of attendees testifying to the wonders of God’s intervention in their lives.

The five-day event meant to herald a new experience in christian warfare, prophecy, healing and deliverance for individuals who seek liberation from demonic oppression appears to have exceeded expectations with the growing numbers of congregants who have thronged the venue since Wednesday.

Expected to close with a bumper thanksgiving service on Sunday, November 16, the conference holds a promise for more Holy Spirit-inspired encounters in the lives of all visitors to the church located at the Fourth Main Event Centre, 85 Oko Eleme Ogombo Road, Ogombo, Lekki-Ajah, Lagos.

The conference which has as it’s theme, “5 Days Of Glory,” has not only witnessed diverse moves of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the people, it has also seen several well known gospel artistes including, Eben, Bidemi Olaoba, Dare Justified and Peterson Okopi enlivening the proceedings with inspired renditions of their popular songs.

The church’s founder and senior pastor, Dr Chris Okafor has since directed proceedings, deploying his famed prophetic prowess to good effect.

His uncanny prophetic gift has been deployed severally in exposing hidden, long-term battles that have plagued many in their different spheres of endeavour.

“I thank God that He has helped us to achieve all that we set out to do from day one of this conference,” Dr Okafor said while responding to questions on how successful the last three days of the event has been.

“The Holy Spirit has helped greatly in lifting burdens, breaking yokes, setting captives of demonic strangulation free, healing the sick and impaired, while releasing breakthroughs of diverse dimensions to many.

“God still has much more in stock for those who will be attending the programme on Saturday and Sunday. I am confident that He will calm the storms of troubled marriages, careers, businesses, academics and finances, while also ensuring that they receive salvation,” he said.

The church has since ensured that visitors on the mainland to the programme are conveyed to the event venue daily courtesy of BRT buses stationed in strategic places in the Lagos metropolis.

Saturday’s programme will hold from 5pm.

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) will as part of the 2025 edition of the Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Nigeria Digital Content Regulatory Conference host a special honour initiative celebrating 22 distinguished Nollywood stars and legends who clocked the milestone ages of 50 and 60 in 2025. The conference holds on the 18 and 19 November 2025 at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.

Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the NFVCB, Dr. Shaibu Husseini hinted that the celebration aims to recognize outstanding practitioners whose careers have significantly shaped the Nigerian film industry. According to Dr. Husseini, the initiative reflects the Boards commitment to acknowledging the creative professionals whose work has enriched national culture, elevated Nollywoods global profile, and contributed to the industrys rapid growth. Nollywoods strength lies in the people who give life to its stories, he said. Honouring those who have invested decades of excellence in the industry is both a responsibility and a privilege.

For the maiden edition, the NFVCB deliberately selected 22 practitioners who reached these milestone ages within the year, ensuring the celebration remains focused, personal, and meaningful. The honourees include Rita Dominic, Ngozi Ezeonu, Segun Aina Padonu, Desmond Olusola Elliot, Atoyota Akpobeme aka Ali Baba, Ahmed Sarari, Afeez Bello, Adebayo Tijani, Achibi Sam Dede, Liliam Amah, Eucharia Anunobi, Taiwo Adeleye, Seyi Siwoku, Jude Chukwuka, Kingsley Ogoro and former President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) Sir Bond Emeruwa. The ED said that the honourees represent a broad cross-section of Nollywoods most influential actors, filmmakers, and creative contributorsindividuals whose artistry, resilience, and career trajectories continue to inspire audiences and emerging talents.

Dr. Husseini also noted that this tribute signals the beginning of a sustained culture of institutional recognition for Nollywood practitioners. We are starting with this select group, but this is only the first step. From next year, the honour roll will expand to include industry veterans turning 70 and abovethose whose pioneering efforts created the foundations on which todays Nollywood stands.

This years edition of the conference will be held under the theme: “From Volume to Value: The Future of Nollywood in the Digital Age. The keynote speech will be delivered by the queen of the stage and screen Bolanle Austen-Peters.

Troops of 25 Task Force Brigade, on routine patrol to secure communities around Wajiroko in Azir Multe, Damboa LGA of Borno State, came under a sudden and heavy insurgents fire while returning from a successful patrol within the fringes of Sambisa Forest.

According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, “the patrol team which was led by the Commander 25 Brigade Brigadier General M Uba and comprised troops of 25 Task Force Brigade and members of Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) courageously fought through the insurgents ambush with superior fire power, forcing them to withdraw in dissaray and to abandone their mission.

During the encounter two brave soldiers and two heroic CJTF members paid the supreme price while on active service to the nation. While commending the troops for their gallantry, the Army high command commiserates with families and associates of the deceased gallants for their heroic sacrifice to the nation.

The Army Headquarters also wishes to debunk the fake narrative going round some media platforms online alleging the abduction of the Brigade Commander. The general public is hereby advised to disregard the fake news regarding the incident while praying for the continuous success of our gallant service men and women.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Nigerian Army Medal, salutes the uncommon bravery, resilience and sacrifice of the gallant troops who have continued to operate in one of the most dangerous theatres of conflict on behalf of our dear nation. Their unflinching commitment, even in the face of grave danger, remains a powerful reminder of the daily sacrifices being made by our gallant service men and women to keep Nigeria safe.

The Nigeria Police Force has recorded another major breakthrough in its anti-fraud operations with the conviction of Mr. David Udensik, also known as Dr. Jacob Bello, for his involvement in a $1 million international oil fraud scheme.

The conviction, secured at the
Federal High Court, Abuja, follows years of meticulous investigation by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) led by Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Henry Uche, a renowned cyber security intelligence officer.

It is in print that CP Uche has proved his mettle in mastery of Advanced Digital Forensics and Cyber Threat Intelligence.
The cop is uniquely distinguished by his exceptional command of advanced digital forensics and cyber-threat intelligence, enabling him to decode complex criminal footprints in cyberspace with surgical precision. His expertise allows the Nigeria Police Force National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF-NCCC) to proactively detect, trace, and dismantle highly sophisticated cybercrime networks, ranging from financial fraud syndicates and identity theft rings to emerging threats like deepfake manipulation and AI-driven cyberattacks.

He combines technical depth with strategic vision, translating raw digital intelligence into actionable national security interventions.

According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the case originated from a petition filed by a United States–based energy company, which alleged that Udensik obtained funds under the pretext of facilitating crude oil transactions in Nigeria.

Investigations revealed that between 2018 and 2023, the convict operated a well-coordinated criminal network, producing forged documents purportedly from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and other regulatory bodies to deceive his victims.

Forensic analyses confirmed that all the documents, seals, and authentication materials presented were counterfeit, while funds traced through the scheme were found to have been diverted into personal and associated bank accounts belonging to the suspect and his accomplices.

Following the successful prosecution, the court found Udensik guilty of Forgery, Obtaining by False Pretence, and Money Laundering. The presiding judge ordered the forfeiture of assets worth several hundreds of millions of naira, including real estate and other properties linked to the fraudulent scheme, to ensure restitution to the victim company.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, commended the officers of the NPF-NCCC for their professionalism and investigative excellence, describing the conviction as a significant victory in the ongoing battle against cyber-enabled financial crimes.

“This success reinforces our commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s corporate reputation and ensuring that all financial criminals regardless of status or location—face justice,” the IGP stated.

The Police Chief reiterated the Force’s determination to deepen international collaboration, enhance intelligence gathering, and strengthen prosecutorial capacity to dismantle complex cyber and financial crime networks targeting Nigerian and foreign businesses.

•Why Wagner betrayed Africa—and what Nigeria must learn fast.
•Russia’s mercenaries promised security. They delivered bloodshed, racism, and catastrophic failure. Now the jihadists are at the gates—and Nigeria could be next.
By Oumarou Sanou

Bamako is burning—again, and the African Union, the regional body tasked with promoting peace and security, is panicking. The capital of Mali, once a proud symbol of West African resilience, now teeters on the brink of collapse, not from foreign invasion but from jihadists who have outlasted coups, crushed alliances, and exposed the hollowness of the “sovereign security” promised by military juntas and their Russian backers. What began as a bold pledge to “restore stability and reclaim dignity” has descended into chaos, bloodshed, racism, and betrayal—the tragic proof that mercenaries cannot buy peace, and juntas cannot govern by force. The Sahel’s descent is not just Mali’s tragedy—it is a warning to Nigeria and the entire region.

When Mali’s coup leaders expelled French and UN forces and turned to Russia’s Wagner Group in 2021, they sold their citizens a dangerous illusion: that imported soldiers of fortune would succeed where legitimate institutions had failed. Three years later, the results are catastrophic. Jihadist groups are advancing toward Bamako, civilians are dying in record numbers, and the mercenaries once paraded as “liberators” have turned Mali’s soil into a graveyard of false hope.

According to conflict monitors, nearly 3,000 civilians have been killed since Wagner’s arrival—many at the hands of their supposed protectors. Entire communities have been wiped out, markets torched, and villages erased under the pretext of “counterterrorism operations.”

The recently leaked documentary March on Azawad—a chilling self-portrait of Russian mercenaries—reveals the futility and racism embedded in their operations. Wagner veterans, now safely back in Russia, describe Malian soldiers as “cowards” and “thieves,” mocking the very people they were paid to defend. Their disdain echoes the systemic racism of Russian society, where ethnic minorities are treated as expendable cannon fodder. These mercenaries, steeped in bigotry and violence, brought to Africa not solidarity, but supremacy — the same dehumanising ideology that drives their atrocities in Ukraine, Libya, and now the Sahel.

The brutality Wagner displays toward African civilians is not aberrational—it is a feature, not a bug. These mercenaries carry to Africa the same racism they practice at home against ethnic minorities in Russia’s own territories. In Chechnya, Dagestan, and other non-Russian regions, minorities face systemic discrimination, violence, and marginalisation. When these fighters arrive in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, they bring that contempt with them.

Their crimes are well-documented. In Moura, central Mali, at least 500 civilians were massacred in a single operation in March 2022. Men were executed, women assaulted, and children mutilated—atrocities gleefully shared in private Wagner Telegram channels like “White Uncles in Africa +18”, where mercenaries celebrated their brutality with the depraved language of white supremacy. To them, African civilians and terrorists were indistinguishable—both expendable, both “sand people.” This is not counterterrorism. It is a campaign of dehumanisation.

Behind Wagner’s bloody record lies a simple motive: profit. The mercenaries did not come for Pan-African solidarity; they came for gold. Mali pays Wagner not only in cash but in mineral concessions—trading sovereignty for survival. One mercenary admits in the documentary that recovering and seizing gold mines was part of their operational “successes.” They looted everything: motorcycles, trucks, excavation equipment. Mali’s resources now flow to Moscow, while its people bleed in silence.

What began as a “security partnership” quickly degenerated into an extractive occupation. Wagner’s recklessness and racial contempt alienated communities, fractured the Malian army, and emboldened jihadists. The July 2024 defeat at Tinzawaten, where 84 Russian mercenaries died alongside dozens of Malian troops, was not an exception—it was the predictable outcome of arrogance and incompetence. The withdrawal of Wagner and its rebranding as “Africa Corps” in 2025 has done little to stem the tide. Today, Bamako stands at the edge of jihadist capture.

The implications for West Africa—and especially Nigeria—are profound. Insecurity in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger does not remain contained; it metastasises. Jihadist groups like JNIM and ISGS have expanded their operations southward, exploiting porous borders, ungoverned spaces, and weak regional coordination. Refugees fleeing the Sahel are already straining Nigeria’s northern communities, while arms trafficking and extremist propaganda infiltrate the hinterland and towns. The possible fall of Bamako would open another corridor of terror stretching from the Maghreb to the Gulf of Guinea—an arc of instability that could engulf the entire subregion. This underscores the need for robust international collaboration in addressing the crisis.

Nigeria must heed this warning with urgency and clarity.

Unlike Mali’s junta, Nigeria has—so far—resisted the temptation of outsourcing its sovereignty to foreign mercenaries. This path has been slow, imperfect, and riddled with challenges, but it is fundamentally different. They have so far relied on their national forces, accountable—however imperfectly—to the constitution, and also engage regional structures such as ECOWAS and the Multinational Joint Task Force, a collaborative security initiative involving several African countries. Nigeria collaborate internationally while preserving national agency.
This is the only sustainable route to lasting peace.

But Nigeria must not grow complacent. Their military architecture still faces serious weaknesses—underfunding, corruption, rights abuses, and inadequate intelligence coordination. Reform is not optional; it is urgent. The country needs a people-centred security strategy built on trust, legitimacy, and professionalism. That means investing in their troops, strengthening community-based intelligence, enhancing regional cooperation, and tackling the root causes that jihadists exploit: poverty, exclusion, and bad governance.

For the rest of Africa, the lesson from the Sahel is brutally clear: mercenaries do not save nations—they strip them bare. Authoritarian juntas that cloak repression in “sovereignty” only invite further collapse. Imported guns or imperial contracts cannot secure Africa’s stability. It must be built through accountable institutions, regional solidarity, and the courage to confront our internal failings head-on.

Mali’s tragedy is a mirror. It shows what happens when desperation replaces strategy, and when sovereignty becomes a slogan for repression. The fall of Bamako—if it happens—will not just be Mali’s failure; it will be a continental warning. Nigeria must learn, act, and lead—because in today’s Sahel, those who chase shortcuts to security end up losing both peace and power.

*Oumarou Sanou* is a social critic, Pan-African observer and researcher focusing on governance, security, and political transitions in the Sahel. He writes on geopolitics, regional stability, and the evolving dynamics of African leadership. Contact: sanououmarou386@gmail.com

France has reaffirmed its commitment to peace, unity, and multilateral cooperation as the French Embassy in Abuja joined the world to commemorate Armistice Day, marking 107 years since the end of the First World War.

The solemn ceremony, held on Tuesday, recognised the sacrifices of French soldiers and all who died for the Republic — not only during the First World War but also in other conflicts around the world — in defence of liberty, democracy, and human dignity.

The French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, who led the ceremony, said it was a solemn reminder of the cost of peace and the duty of nations to preserve it. Fonbaustier praised the bravery of soldiers who fought for the Republic, saying their sacrifices embody the very spirit of France — courage, honour, and service to humanity. “France remembers not only those who fell on the fields of Europe but also those who fought and died in Africa, Asia, and beyond,” he stated.

Fonbaustier also reaffirmed France’s strong partnership with Nigeria and its continued commitment to multilateral cooperation, peacekeeping, and humanitarian support in Africa and worldwide. He noted that both nations share a vision of stability and mutual respect built on dialogue and democratic values. “France stands with Nigeria and all peace-loving nations in defending the ideals of freedom and human dignity,” he added.

Speaking at the event, the Defence Attaché of France to Nigeria, Colonel Stéphane Useo, stated that the commemoration represents more than mere remembrance; it reflects France’s enduring commitment to promoting peace and upholding shared human values. He said, “Every year, generations gather before the monuments of our towns and villages, united in remembrance and strengthened in our shared purpose — to build a world where liberty, security, and dignity are guaranteed for all.”

Useo paid tribute to the courage and selflessness of French soldiers through the ages, noting that their sacrifices continue to define the strength and values of the French Republic. He also shared a personal reflection, revealing that members of his own family were among those who experienced the horrors of war. “For my family, as for many French families, war was not distant history — it was lived experience. It taught us that freedom is never free, and that peace must always be defended,” he said.

He further highlighted the symbolism of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Arc de Triomphe and the Bleuet de France, the blue cornflower that has represented solidarity with veterans since 1925. The Defence Attaché described the flower as “a small but powerful emblem of compassion, resilience, and unity.”

The ceremony concluded with the laying of wreaths and a moment of silence at the embassy’s memorial plaque, as France renewed its message that remembrance is not only about honouring the past but also about sustaining the collective resolve to secure a peaceful and united future.

Nigeria has once again reaffirmed its place on the global defence map as Captain (NN) A.O. Akano of the Nigerian Navy has emerged the overall best graduating student of the Security and Defence Studies Programme 11/25 at the South African National Defence College, one of the continent’s most respected strategic military institutions.

Information sourced by TalkJudith from the official Facebook page of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) confirmed that Captain Akano graduated on 12 November 2025, outperforming senior military officers from multiple African countries and beyond.

The Security and Defence Studies Programme is a flagship strategic leadership course designed to deepen participants’ expertise in defence policy, security management, geostrategy, and international relations. Excelling in such a rigorous, multi-national academic environment underscores Captain Akano’s exceptional intellect, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to service.

Captain Akano’s accomplishment is even more historic considering he is only the second non–South African to earn the institution’s top academic honour since the programme began. The first remains another Nigerian naval officer, Captain (NN) Obute, who claimed the distinction in 2022. The repeat success by Nigerian officers further cements the country’s growing legacy of excellence within Africa’s premier defence institutions.

Defence analysts say the achievement is a testament to the Nigerian Armed Forces’ increasing influence in continental security affairs. A senior military observer described the feat as “a powerful affirmation of Nigeria’s leadership potential and strategic relevance within Africa’s evolving defence and security framework.”

The officer added that such consistent international successes demonstrate the Nigerian Navy’s heavy investment in training and human capacity development investments that continue to produce officers capable of competing and excelling on global platforms.

As Captain Akano returns home decorated with top honours, his achievement stands as a compelling reminder that Nigerian military professionals remain among the finest in Africa. His success, observers say, will continue to inspire younger officers and contribute to Nigeria’s reputation for producing disciplined, innovative, and globally competitive defence leaders.

The Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, on Friday, 14 November 2025, graduated 41 senior and mid-level officers from its Senior and Middle-Level Entrepreneurship and Management Course 16/2025, marking yet another milestone in the Armed Forces’ drive to equip personnel with skills for productive post-service life.

The Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Rimi Mamman (GSS, PSC, FDC, MNIM), led the ceremony and charged the graduands to embrace innovation, leadership and enterprise as they transition to the next phase of their careers.

In his address, AVM Mamman commended the participants for their diligence throughout the 4–5 week intensive programme, describing the course as a practical pathway to a successful and fulfilling life after military service.

“It is my honour to welcome you to this graduation ceremony for participants of the Senior and Middle-Level Officers’ Entrepreneurship and Management Course 16/2025,” he said. “Today, we celebrate officers who have acquired vital knowledge in entrepreneurship and management key tools for a seamless transition to civilian life.”

He noted that the course offers hands-on training designed to help participants establish and manage businesses during and after service. The curriculum, recently reviewed and enriched, exposed officers to best practices in agriculture, business planning, leadership, emotional intelligence, and contemporary management techniques.

Their study visit to Songhai Farms in Porto-Novo, Benin Republic, he added, reinforced the course’s emphasis on agricultural entrepreneurship.

“As entrepreneurs and managers, you are catalysts of growth, innovation, and national development,” he said. “The biggest risk is not taking any risk.”

AVM Mamman also praised the facilitators including EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation and highlighted NAFRC’s partnership with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), which now enables participants to register businesses seamlessly as part of the programme.

He urged the graduands to lead with purpose, innovate boldly, build strong teams, and prioritise productivity.

“Remember that the only true source of wealth is the customer,” he said. “Drive change, achieve greatness, and make a lasting impact.”

The Commandant expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, OFR, and the Service Chiefs for their support to NAFRC.

He then formally conferred the awards: “By the powers conferred on me as the Commandant, I hereby confer on you the award as graduands of Senior and Middle-Level Entrepreneurship and Management Course 16/2025.”

Special Guest of Honour, Her Excellency Dr. (Mrs.) Onari Duke, congratulated the officers and praised NAFRC for sustaining a globally relevant standard of training.

“Today we mark not only the conclusion of a programme, but the beginning of a new chapter,” she said. “You are now part of a global community of Empretec entrepreneurs, equipped with the expertise to drive innovation, create jobs and contribute meaningfully to national development.”

Dr. Duke highlighted the practical exposure offered to participants through study tours, including: Nigeria Conservation Centre, Lekki (30 October) where participants learned about biodiversity, sustainability and eco-tourism. Commint Buka, Surulere (6 November) a model of innovative local business operations and entrepreneurship. Songhai Farm, Porto-Novo (9–11 November) an international excursion that showcased integrated farming, zero-waste agriculture, and smart agricultural techniques.

She commended the Commandant, Deputy Commandant, Director of Training, and all NAFRC instructors for their commitment to producing well-grounded future entrepreneurs.

“To our graduates, lead with purpose, innovate with passion, and excel with integrity,” she concluded.

Earlier in his speech, the Director of Training, Brigadier General I.O. Olatunji, presented a comprehensive overview of the programme’s structure and impact.

He noted that 36 officers were nominated from Defence Headquarters, the Army, the Navy, the Air Force and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), while NAFRC sponsored an additional 5 officers bringing the total to 41 participants for Course 16/2025.

Despite vacancies shared with paramilitary agencies and MDAs, none participated except DIA. General Olatunji outlined the modules delivered during the 4–5 week course, including: Agricultural Systems and Smart Farming; Emotional Intelligence and Leadership; Business Management and Legal Advisory; Health, Wellness and Lifestyle Management; Entrepreneurship and Technical Skills.

A key highlight was the Entrepreneur Technical Workshop (ETW), where participants developed and presented business models within five days, demonstrating creativity, teamwork and practical understanding of entrepreneurship.

He confirmed that the set objectives of the programme were fully achieved, and that all 41 participants fulfilled requirements for the joint NAFRC–Empretec certificate.

Study tours both local and foreign were crucial components, with Course 16 becoming the first set to explore both Porto-Novo and wider Cotonou on their international visit.

Brig. Gen. Olatunji commended the officers for their maturity, cooperation and discipline throughout the programme.

The Entrepreneurship and Management Course, now conducted quarterly following approval by the Chief of Defence Staff, continues to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s military transition framework.

With Course 16/2025 successfully completed, NAFRC reaffirms its position as the premier centre for preparing military personnel for prosperous and dignified retirement.

Fidelity Bank Plc has announced its audited financial results for the half-year ended 30 June 2025, demonstrating resilience and sustained growth across key performance indicators.

Highlights of the financial results which was uploaded on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) portal on Thursday, 13 November 2025 shows that the bank delivered robust results across key financial metrics including Gross Earnings, which stood at ₦748.7 billion, up from ₦512.9 billion in H1 2024; Interest Income, which rose to ₦557.9 billion, compared to ₦357.9 billion in H1 2024; and Total Deposits, which grew to ₦7.20 trillion, from ₦6.94 trillion in H1 2024.

Similarly, the bank’s Low-Cost Deposits increased to ₦4.85 trillion, compared to ₦4.83 trillion in H1 2024.

Fidelity Bank continued to expand its digital banking footprint, enhance customer experience, and support key sectors of the economy. The bank’s loan book grew, with Net Loans and Advances expanding to ₦1.69 trillion, up from ₦1.59 trillion in H1 2024, reflecting increased support for businesses and individuals. Asset quality remained stable, with non-performing loans well within acceptable limits.

The bank’s capital raising initiatives have further strengthened its financial position, ensuring readiness to meet new regulatory requirements and pursue growth opportunities. Fidelity Bank’s strong liquidity profile and robust governance framework provide a solid foundation for continued success.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.