Category: News

A voluntary and precautionary recall of specific batches of Nestlé Infant Formula has been announced in some countries, and we understand that this may have raised questions.

According to a statement signed by the Corporate Affairs Manager Nestlé Nigeria PLC, Toju Egbebi, “We would like to clarify that Infant Formula sold by Nestlé Nigeria is not part of the voluntary and precautionary recall of specific batches of Infant Formula announced in some countries.

We want to emphasize that the Nestlé Infant Formula products sold by Nestlé Nigeria and officially registered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) are not affected by this recall.

We would like to reassure that all SMA (SMA Gold 1, SMA Gold 2 and SMA Gold 3) and NAN product ranges (NAN Optipro 1, NAN Optipro 2 and NAN Optipro 3) sold by Nestlé Nigeria are safe for consumption.

The safety and quality of our products, and the health of babies, are our top priorities.

For additional information please contact:
Corporate.Communications@NG.nestle.com

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Transparency International Nigeria (TI Nigeria) have commended the United Kingdom government for its role in combating corruption and illicit financial flows following the recovery of $9.5 million in stolen Nigerian assets.

In a statement signed by the Executive Director of CISLAC and Head of Transparency International Nigeria, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organisations described the recovery as a positive demonstration of international cooperation consistent with Nigeria’s Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), 2022.

According to CISLAC and TI Nigeria, POCA provides Nigeria with a comprehensive legal framework for tracing, freezing, confiscating, managing, and recovering proceeds of crime, both within the country and from foreign jurisdictions. The law remains Nigeria’s principal instrument for ensuring that criminals do not benefit from corruption or other financial crimes, particularly funds looted and concealed abroad.

The organisations added that the latest recovery underscores the importance of mutual legal assistance and cross-border collaboration, which are central objectives of POCA, describing such cooperation as critical to strengthening Nigeria’s asset recovery efforts and deterring illicit financial flows.

While welcoming the return of the stolen funds, CISLAC and TI Nigeria expressed concern over the utilisation and management of recovered assets. The statement noted that despite significant asset recoveries over the past decade, Nigerians continue to experience limited access to information on how recovered funds are deployed.

The organisations stated that citizens remain dissatisfied with the level of transparency surrounding recovered assets, stressing that civil society groups have developed accountability frameworks aligned with POCA to prevent re-looting and ensure recovered funds are used for the public good.

CISLAC and TI Nigeria emphasised that we must focus not only on recovering looted funds but on blocking lapses that allow theft in the first place. Nigeria must take illicit financial flows seriously. With estimated annual losses of $18 billion, the country cannot rely on recovery efforts alone. Financial institutions and systems must be thoroughly sanitised to prevent looters and ensure that taxpayers’ money does not exit the country illegally. Nigeria accounts for a large percentage of illicit financial flows in Africa, and allowing this situation to continue directly contributes to poverty and deficits in infrastructure development.

The statement further noted that these systemic vulnerabilities have global consequences. Nigerians often face suspicion and discrimination abroad because their information, certifications, and data are routinely questioned, reflecting the lack of credibility caused by domestic financial mismanagement. Strengthening accountability, transparency, and enforcement would protect national wealth, restore international confidence, and reduce the negative perception of Nigerian citizens globally.

Key accountability measures required to guarantee transparency include independent monitoring and oversight of recovered assets, public disclosure of Memoranda of Understanding guiding asset repatriation, and clear information on where and how recovered funds will be spent. Public reporting, regular auditing, and strict sanctions against any individuals involved in the re-looting of recovered proceeds of crime, as provided under POCA, are essential.

CISLAC and TI Nigeria emphasised that recovered assets should be lodged in dedicated accounts to enable proper tracking and accountability. Once recovered funds are paid into the general government account, transparency becomes difficult, and the process risks being absorbed into routine government spending without adequate oversight.

The organisations welcomed the latest recovery and urged the Nigerian government to fully implement the Proceeds of Crime Act and honour its commitments under the Global Forum on Asset Recovery, where Nigeria pledged to ensure that recovered assets are managed transparently and used to improve citizens’ welfare.

The statement also called for independent oversight by the National Assembly to ensure that recovered funds are effectively traced, tracked, and measured in line with POCA’s objectives. It noted that accountability becomes nearly impossible when recovered assets are merged into regular government expenditure without clear reporting mechanisms.

CISLAC and TI Nigeria highlighted ongoing challenges faced by civil society organisations, particularly limited access to timely and accurate information on recovered assets. The groups urged the government to improve transparency by providing clearer and more consistent data, noting that openness would also help counter misinformation, rumours, and fake news.

While describing the asset recovery as a positive development for Nigeria’s financial system, the organisations warned that weak enforcement continues to undermine existing laws. They noted that Nigeria still loses significant amounts of stolen funds due to prolonged litigation, institutional weaknesses, and procedural delays.

The statement concluded by urging the government to prioritise the effective implementation of the Proceeds of Crime Act, strengthen institutions, block financial leakages, and prevent looting to safeguard public resources and ensure that recovered assets deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians.

The Headquarters 81 Division, Nigerian Army Engineers, in collaboration with 9 Brigade, on Saturday, 10 January 2026, hosted a colourful and well-attended combined West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 at the iconic TA Lagbaja Cantonment, Ikeja, Lagos.

The annual event brought together senior military officers, soldiers, families, sister security agencies, government officials, and traditional stakeholders in a celebration of unity, culture, and operational excellence within the Nigerian Army.

Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Tayo Akinmade Ayinde, praised the Nigerian Army for its relentless commitment to national and regional security.

He noted that troops across the country have remained fully engaged in counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, internal security operations, intensive training programmes, parades, workshops, and administrative responsibilities throughout the year.

According to him, such demanding schedules make it imperative for soldiers and their families to periodically unwind and reconnect in a relaxed environment.

“The WASA celebration provides a befitting conclusion to the year’s demanding activities. It allows our gallant troops to relax, celebrate their achievements, and share joy with their loved ones after months of selfless service,” he said.

The governor described WASA as a cherished cultural legacy dating back to the era of the West African Frontier Force, designed to promote unity, camaraderie, and a strong sense of belonging among troops and their families.

He added that the tradition not only strengthens bonds within the barracks community but also enhances the relationship between the military and its host communities, while mentally and socially preparing personnel for renewed commitment in the new year.

Commending the colourful cultural displays and performances, the governor applauded the soldiers for showcasing remarkable creativity beyond their military duties.

“Today’s performances highlight the richness of our heritage and the diversity that binds us together as one nation. I am impressed by the talent and versatility displayed by our troops,” he said, expressing confidence that the objectives of the 2025 WASA had been fully achieved.

He concluded by appreciating the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, officers, soldiers, civilian staff, families, and sister security agencies for their collective efforts and dedication.

In his opening remarks, the General Officer Commanding 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, warmly welcomed guests on behalf of officers and soldiers of the division and Headquarters Nigerian Army Engineers.

He described WASA as a long-standing Nigerian Army tradition that draws the curtain on the year’s activities, promotes regimentation, and strengthens unity among personnel and their families.

Major General Mijinyawa congratulated officers and soldiers of the division for what he described as a highly successful 2025, marked by outstanding achievements in training, administration, and operations.

He disclosed that the division effectively executed all training activities outlined in the Nigerian Army Training Directive 2025 and successfully hosted several major army-level events, including:
Conversion Board 2025 for Nigerian Army Officers in Abeokuta; Senior Command and Leadership Seminar; Pre-Retirement and Business Seminar in Lagos; The prestigious Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2025.

On operations, the GOC revealed that the division, in synergy with other security agencies, conducted sustained internal security operations that ensured peace and stability within its area of responsibility.

He further disclosed that, in line with ECOWAS protocols, the division swiftly deployed troops in December 2025 to support the Benin Republic, where Nigerian soldiers are currently conducting joint operations with their Beninese counterparts.

“I commend the professionalism, discipline, and dedication of every officer and soldier of this division. I am proud of you all, and I urge you to sustain this tempo in the new year,” he said.

Reflecting on his impending completion of tour of duty as GOC, Major General Mijinyawa expressed deep appreciation to officers, soldiers, and their families for their sacrifices and unwavering support. He also thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his strategic guidance and timely provision of resources.

The GOC acknowledged the support of Lagos and Ogun State Governments, particularly through Operation MESA, as well as traditional rulers, host communities, and members of the press for their cooperation throughout 2025.

Charging troops to remain steadfast in the year ahead, he urged them to redouble efforts toward safeguarding lives and property within the division’s area of responsibility.

The event was graced by senior serving and retired military officers, including representatives of the Western Naval Command, led by the Chief Staff Officer, Rear Admiral Nnamdi Christiantus Ekwom, on behalf of the Flag Officer Commanding.

Other notable dignitaries included Senator Musiliu Olatunde Obanikoro (Koro), Commander NNS BEECROFT, Rear Admiral Paul Ponfa Nimmyel, Air Commodore MA Imam, and several other stakeholders across the security architecture.

The newly appointed Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Air Vice Marshal Nnaemeka Ignatius Ilo, who assumed office on 15th December 2025 as the 42nd Commandant of the NAFRC has affirmed his commitment to improving the quality of training, addressing infrastructural gaps, and strengthening operational efficiency across the Centre.

The Commandant made this known during his familiarisation tour of NAFRC recently. The tour was undertaken to assess facilities, interact with personnel, and identify areas requiring immediate and long-term intervention in line with the Centre’s resettlement and vocational training mandate.

AVM Ilo stated that his leadership would prioritise the creation of a conducive learning environment for participants, improvement of workshop capacity, and the delivery of practical and relevant training that adequately prepares retiring personnel for reintegration into civil life after six months of intensive vocational and entrepreneurial training.

He further disclosed plans to conduct a comparative analysis of similar resettlement and rehabilitation centres outside the country. According to him, the initiative would provide first hand exposure to international best practices, to enable the Centre benchmark its operations, and support the adoption of innovative ideas to further improve the standard of training in NAFRC.

The familiarisation tour commenced at the Directorate of Training, where the Commandant was briefed by the Director of Training, Major General IO Olatunji, on the structure, responsibilities, and strategic positioning of the Directorate close to the workshops for effective monitoring and coordination of training activities.

Major General Olatunji in his brief noted that the training curriculum, was due for review as the last comprehensive review was carried out in 2022 and is now due for another update to reflect current realities and evolving vocational demands.

The Commandant thereafter inspected several workshops across the Centre, as including automobile, auto-mechanic, weaving and textile, carpentry, woodwork, leather works, ceramics, foundry, fabrication, welding, plumbing, waste management, photography, and events management. others are, the agricultural wing, training battalion, medical centre, ICT centre, and the management wing.

AVM Ilo also emphasised the need to improve the learning environment, by providing visual and instructional aids for training, to effectively deliver quality training for retiring personnel of the armed forces. He added that the centre will be fitted with modern training equipment across relevant workshops to expose participants to mechanised operations and current industry practices.

The Commandant concluded the 2-day tour by reaffirming his commitment to improving infrastructure, strengthening the quality of training, and enhancing staff welfare across the Centre. He assured personnel that observations made during the familiarisation tour would be translated into actionable plans aimed at repositioning NAFRC as a leading resettlement and vocational training institution.

Prominent pastor and founder of Grace Nation Church International, Dr. Chris Okafor, has publicly apologised to Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo and Dr. David Abioye for dragging them into his personal matters.

The apology came after both clergymen were criticised for their association with Okafor, who has been embroiled in a controversy surrounding allegations made by actress Doris Ogala.

Okafor explained during a live worship service on Sunday, December 28, 2025, that Ashimolowo and Abioye had been supporting and mentoring him for years, and that their involvement with him was not motivated by financial gain.

He revealed that Abioye had actually donated N5million to his church after ministering in one of it’s programmes titled, “Not My Head, Not My Blood,” last September, and that Ashimolowo had gifted him a property in Lekki, Lagos.

Okafor expressed gratitude for the guidance and support he has received from the two men, whom he considers “fathers of faith”.

“I apologise to these fathers of faith for being needlessly dragged into a matter which is purely my personal problems,” Okafor said.

He urged them to continue supporting him and assured them that their efforts would not go unnoticed.

The apology has sparked mixed reactions from the public, with some calling for Okafor to address the allegations made against him, while others have rallied behind him, praising his humility and transparency.

The Directorate for State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police have failed to take up an invitation earlier extended to them by Dr Chris Okafor, senior pastor and founder of the Grace Nation Church International, Lagos to come dig up the church’s altar to ascertain whether or not recent claims by Nollywood actress, Doris Ogala that there was a buried human corpse was indeed true.

Ogala trended in December following disclosures she made about a purported romantic relationship she had with the pastor, while seeking reparations for being dumped in favour of another woman he went on to marry in a colourful ceremony in Lagos on Wednesday, December 16, 2025.

A tearful Ogala had in a no-holds-barred exposè on her Instagram page accused the pastor of reneging on his promise to marry her after making her dump her husband of many years, and claiming that she also aborted babies for him.

But perhaps the most damaging of her accusations was that the Anambra-born preacher also harboured the bizarre secret of a buried human corpse on his church’s altar.

“Believe me, Chris Okafor buried a corpse on his church’s altar,” Ogala had said in one of her videos.

But, the celebrity televangelist and prophet would kick the allegations into touch in what appeared his first official response to the barrage of criticisms which filled the air in a live stream of a church service he superintendented over on Sunday, December 28, 2025.

“The other day, there was an allegation that someone was buried on this church’s altar. Hold on. When this altar was built, I was not even in Nigeria. I was in a conference far away outside of the country,” Dr Okafor began in the televised broadcast now still trending on YouTube.

“However, to remove all doubts and to firmly establish the veracity or otherwise of the claims, I am openly inviting the DSS, the Nigeria Police, and all other constituted government authorities. They should come and break the altar. I am ready to sponsor it. And let it be televised live, and I’ll sponsor it,” he said.

Observers have hailed the boldness of the pastor’s move, saying it spoke volumes about his real desire to have the contentious issue laid to rest.

Some have also wondered why the security agencies would fail to accept the invitation as a way of establishing the authenticity of the claims, while dissipating energy on yet another unverified murder claims allegedly involving the pastor which the Lagos State Police authorities are said to be more interested in.

“I read somewhere that the Lagos State Police Commissioner, Olohundare Jimoh had ordered an investigation into an alleged murder case involving Dr Chris Okafor, while conveniently failing to accept his invitation to break up his church’s altar to ascertain whether Doris Ogala’s claims of a buried human corpse was actually true. It is baffling to me,” an observer who prefers anonymity said.

The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Admiralty Medal, undertook a two-day working visit to Eastern Naval Command Calabar Area on Wednesday, 7 January 2026. The visit, which is his maiden tour of the Command since assumption of office, forms part of his operational and administrative engagements aimed at enhancing naval effectiveness in the region.

Upon arrival at Margaret Ekpo International Airport, the Chief of the Naval Staff accompanied by Principal Staff Officers from Naval Headquarters, was received by the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral CD Okehie.

The CNS immediately proceeded to Nigerian Navy Barracks, Atimbo, where he commissioned two newly constructed 12-by-1 Junior Rates Permanent Accommodation Blocks, designated Block A and Block B. The commissioning ceremony, witnessed by personnel from sister services and security agencies, marks a significant milestone in the Command’s efforts to improve personnel welfare and living conditions which is in tandem with the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command’s Leadership key Pillars

The CNS’ visit also included an inspection of ongoing projects at Nigerian Navy Barracks Akim, 1006 Navy Barracks, the Nigerian Navy Hotel and Suites site, the permanent site of the Naval War College Nigeria, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Victory, the Eastern Fleet, and the NNS Victory Jetty. These inspections provided him with an on-the-spot assessment of infrastructure development, fleet disposition, and operational readiness across the Command.

During his operational tour of Headquarters Eastern Naval Command, Vice Admiral Abbas was briefed by the Command Operations Officer, Rear Admiral CE Oji, on the Command’s activities, challenges, and current security posture. He acknowledged the issues raised and assured that the Nigerian Navy will take appropriate measures to address them. The CNS emphasized the need for innovative thinking, stating that officers must “think outside the box” in tackling emerging security challenges.

He further noted that the tour was not limited to infrastructure inspection but aimed at evaluating ongoing operations and addressing personnel welfare concerns, which he described as essential to sustaining effective maritime security operations.

As part of his engagements, the Chief of the Naval Staff paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Bassey Otu. The Governor warmly received the CNS and his entourage, commending the Nigerian Navy for its consistent operational readiness.

He acknowledged the high level of security threats within the region but expressed confidence in the Navy’s capability to respond promptly and decisively to any challenge. The visits culminated with exchange of souvenirs and group photographs.

Unity Bank Plc has disbursed over N270 million in grants to young Nigerian entrepreneurs under its Youth Entrepreneurship Development Initiative: Corpreneurship Challenge, bringing the total number of beneficiaries since inception in 2019 to 608 corps members nationwide.

The initiative, implemented in partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) through its Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, continues to equip fresh graduates with the funding, confidence, and support required to launch and scale viable businesses.

In the most recent edition of the Corpreneurship Challenge, held between November 18 and December 9, 2025, across 10 NYSC orientation camps nationwide, 30 youth corps members emerged as winners during the Batch C, Stream I, 2025 exercise of the programme.

The latest beneficiaries were selected from orientation camps in Lagos, Delta, Kaduna, Jigawa, Kwara, Enugu, Abia, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Akwa Ibom, and Plateau (Jos), after pitching innovative business ideas across diverse sectors of the economy.

Unity Bank’s cumulative investment in the Corpreneurship Challenge underscores the Bank’s long-standing commitment to youth empowerment, MSME development, and job creation in Nigeria.

Speaking on the continued impact of the initiative, Unity Bank’s Divisional Head, Retail & SME, Mrs. Adenike Abimbola, reaffirmed the Bank’s belief in entrepreneurship as a catalyst for economic transformation.

“At Unity Bank, we recognise that entrepreneurship remains one of the most effective tools for tackling youth unemployment and driving inclusive economic growth. Through the Corpreneurship Challenge, we are not only providing financial support, but also instilling confidence in young graduates to transform viable ideas into sustainable businesses. Reaching over 600 beneficiaries since inception reinforces our belief in the immense potential of Nigeria’s youth,” she said.

Mrs. Abimbola further emphasised the programme’s role in strengthening Nigeria’s MSME ecosystem and creating long-term economic value.

“Small and medium-scale enterprises are the backbone of any resilient economy. By supporting corps members at the earliest stage of their entrepreneurial journey, we are helping to build businesses that can create jobs, stimulate local economies, and contribute meaningfully to national development. Our focus is on impact that goes beyond grants, impact that translates into lasting livelihoods,” she added.

The Corpreneurship Challenge provides a competitive platform where corps members pitch business ideas, assessed on originality, feasibility, market demand, scalability, and job-creation potential. Successful participants receive financial grants to kick-start or expand their ventures, alongside exposure to business guidance and mentorship.

Since its launch, the initiative has supported youth-led businesses across value chains, including fashion, agribusiness, food processing, creative services, manufacturing, and retail. Over the years, it has become an integral part of the NYSC experience, attracting thousands of applications annually and earning national recognition for its contribution to youth empowerment.

By sustaining and expanding the Corpreneurship Challenge, Unity Bank continues to reinforce its role as a strategic partner in Nigeria’s entrepreneurial and MSME development landscape.

A recently concluded opinion poll conducted by a reputable media organisation, Standard Post, has projected victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), in the August 8, 2026 election.

According to the poll, Oyebamiji is leading the race with 52 per cent of respondents’ votes. The incumbent governor and governorship candidate of the Accord Party, Ademola Adeleke, came a distant second with 38 per cent, while the African Democratic Congress (ADC) emerged third with 8 per cent.

The newspaper explained that the online opinion poll, conducted over the weekend, featured the three major candidates from the leading political parties participating in the off-cycle governorship election in the state.

Standard Post noted that Osun State residents who participated in the poll voted overwhelmingly in favour of the APC candidate.

The media organisation stated that the poll was professionally conducted, with in-depth analysis revealing the current standing of the candidates ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

“From public opinion, political alignment, and on-ground observations, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presently appears to hold a decisive edge in the race. A key factor driving this momentum is the renewed unity and organisational strength within the APC.”

The paper added that the unity within the APC has translated into stronger grassroots engagement and growing confidence among voters seeking what it described as a credible alternative.

It also attributed the incumbent governor’s declining support to challenges facing critical sectors in the state, including health, housing, as well as uneven infrastructure development.

The residents also identified lack of policy direction in key sectors such as education, agriculture, sports development among others as part of the resentment of the residents against the incumbent governor.

“Unlike previous election cycles marked by internal divisions, the party is entering 2026 more cohesive, strategically prepared, and fully mobilised across all local governments. This unity has translated into stronger grassroots engagement and growing confidence among voters seeking a credible alternative.”

The media house further noted that dissatisfaction with the current administration is shaping voter sentiment across the state.

“These statistics reflect the growing desire of Osun people for a change in leadership, driven by widespread dissatisfaction with the current administration.

“Key concerns include the lack of job opportunities for youths, a struggling health sector, uneven road infrastructure development concentrated largely in Ede, the abandonment of the Iwo–Osogbo road project, and several unfulfilled promises made by Governor Ademola Adeleke during the 2022 electioneering campaign.”

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) announces the commencement of procedures for granting safe passage to personal vehicles temporarily imported or transiting through Nigeria by international travellers.

This was disclosed in an official statement endorsed by Abdullahi Maiwada PhD, mnipr, mniia, Deputy Comptroller of Customs
National Public Relations Officer. “The initiative is anchored on the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and relevant international conventions on temporary admission and transit of vehicles.

The new framework covers all personal, non-commercial vehicles belonging to international travellers visiting Nigeria for tourism, diplomatic, business, or personal purposes. It seeks to ease cross-border movement, strengthen Nigeria’s compliance with international obligations, and reinforce the nation’s commitment to trade facilitation and regional integration.

It is pertinent to note that this implementation draws legal backing from Sections 142, 143, 144, and 245 of the NCS Act, 2023, as well as the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC), UN TIR Convention (1975), Istanbul Convention (1990), and the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Residence, and Establishment. It also aligns with WCO Guidelines on Temporary Admission and the Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) regulations.

International travellers are required to present valid documents such as international passport, international driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance, and CPD at the point of entry. Upon satisfactory inspection and verification, a Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit valid for up to 90 days will be issued and electronically recorded. Travellers may apply for an extension of up to 30 days, subject to approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller.

Vehicles admitted under this regime are free to move within Nigeria but cannot be sold, leased, transferred, modified, or used for commercial purposes. At the point of exit, travellers should present the vehicle and the approved customs Temporary Admission Declaration. In the event of an accident, theft, or breakdown, the nearest Customs office should be notified immediately for documentation and guidance.

The NCS, therefore, reaffirms its commitment to transparency and accountability while facilitating legitimate travel. This initiative strengthens Nigeria’s role in cross-border cooperation and ensures compliance with existing regulations to enhance security and efficiency.