Aeesha's Blog

Category: Breaking News

  • Nigeria Customs Service Breaks Records with ₦7.28 Trillion Revenue in 2025

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has achieved a historic revenue milestone, recording a total of ₦7.281 trillion in revenue for the 2025 fiscal year — significantly surpassing its annual target and marking one of its strongest financial performances in recent memory.

    Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, disclosed the figures on Monday while delivering a keynote address at the 2026 World Customs Day celebration in Abuja. The event, which brought together government officials, private sector stakeholders, and international partners, highlighted the agency’s ongoing transformative agenda.

    Revenue Outturn Exceeds Expectations

    Adeniyi said the NCS initially set an annual revenue target of ₦6.584 trillion for 2025. However, actual collections exceeded this figure by ₦697 billion, representing a positive variance of more than 10 per cent above target. Year-on-year comparisons also revealed strong growth; customs receipts rose from ₦6.1 trillion in 2024 to ₦7.28 trillion in 2025 — a nearly 19 per cent increase.

    “Ladies and gentlemen, even as we protect society and reform procedures, we must also sustain the financial health of the state,” Adeniyi said. “I am pleased to report that in 2025, the Nigeria Customs Service collected a total of ₦7.281 trillion, exceeding the target of ₦6.584 trillion with a positive variance of ₦697 billion, representing a growth of over 10 per cent against the target.”

    Reforms, Technology and Collaboration Drive Performance

    The Comptroller-General attributed the strong performance to a series of institutional reforms and strategic deployments of technology across customs operations. These changes, he explained, have improved compliance, enhanced data usage, and streamlined procedures while fostering deeper engagement with private sector stakeholders.

    Adeniyi was quick to emphasise that the revenue gains were not achieved through arbitrary enforcement or burdening legitimate traders, a concern often raised by importers. Instead, improved systems — including digital tools and disciplined enforcement — underpinned the growth.

    “We present these figures not as self-congratulation, but as evidence that reform is yielding tangible outcomes,” he said, stressing that collaboration with the private sector and alignment with trade facilitation commitments were key.

    Balancing Revenue With Trade Facilitation

    While celebrating the revenue achievement, Adeniyi reiterated the agency’s commitment to balancing its revenue generation mandate with its trade facilitation responsibilities, particularly within the frameworks of regional and global trade agreements.

    The celebration also featured the official launch of a Time-Release Study — a diagnostic initiative aimed at identifying and eliminating bottlenecks in the clearance of goods at Nigerian ports, further supporting the country’s trade competitiveness.

    Nigeria’s Non-Oil Revenue Landscape

    Customs remains a key non-oil revenue generator for the Federal Government. Its strong performance in 2025 comes amid broader efforts to strengthen domestic revenue mobilization and reduce reliance on oil receipts — a priority of the current economic policy direction.

  • Nigeria’s Oil Reserves Set to Grow as NNPC Discovers New Oil Well

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPC Ltd.) has announced the discovery of a new oil well with massive crude oil deposits, a development expected to significantly boost Nigeria’s hydrocarbon reserves and strengthen the nation’s energy security.

    NNPC Ltd. disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, describing the discovery as a major breakthrough in its ongoing upstream exploration activities.

    According to the company, the newly discovered oil well was identified during an extensive exploration exercise conducted in collaboration with its joint venture partners, using advanced seismic and drilling technologies.

    The statement noted that preliminary findings indicate that the oil well contains substantial crude oil deposits with high commercial potential, capable of supporting long-term production and contributing meaningfully to national output levels.

    “This discovery underscores NNPC Ltd.’s commitment to aggressively pursue exploration opportunities within Nigeria’s sedimentary basins to grow the nation’s reserves and ensure sustainable energy supply,” the company said.

    NNPC Ltd. explained that further appraisal and evaluation activities were already underway to determine the full extent, quality and recoverability of the crude oil deposits, as well as the most efficient development strategy.

    The company added that the discovery aligns with the Federal Government’s objective of increasing Nigeria’s crude oil production capacity and reducing dependence on oil imports, while also attracting new investments into the oil and gas sector.

    Industry experts have described the development as a positive signal for Nigeria’s energy sector, particularly at a time when the country is seeking to optimise production, stabilise revenue inflows and strengthen its position within the global oil market.

    They noted that successful development of the new oil well could lead to job creation, increased foreign exchange earnings and enhanced economic activities in the host communities.

    NNPC Ltd. also reaffirmed its commitment to conducting all exploration and production activities in line with global best practices, with strong emphasis on environmental protection, host community engagement and compliance with regulatory standards.

    The company assured Nigerians that updates would be provided as appraisal work progresses and more information becomes available on the scale and commercial viability of the discovery.

    Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, currently holds billions of barrels in proven crude oil reserves, with ongoing efforts by NNPC Ltd. aimed at expanding exploration beyond traditional oil-producing areas to unlock new energy opportunities across the country.

  • FG to Kickstart 2026 “Detty December” Preparations in March — Minister Musawa

    The Federal Government has announced plans to begin early preparations for the 2026 edition of “Detty December” as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s tourism and creative economy, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, revealed on Saturday.

    Speaking during an interview on the MIC ON podcast hosted by Seun Okinbaloye, Musawa said that evaluations of the 2025 Detty December festivities exposed significant opportunities to improve critical aspects of the annual season of cultural celebrations, concerts, parties, and events that draw visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.

    Positive Gains Amid Challenges

    According to the minister, the 2025 festivities delivered substantial economic and tourism gains, with increased inflows of both local and international visitors and elevated consumer spending that boosted local businesses. However, Musawa acknowledged that structural challenges, including inadequate accommodation options, inflated pricing by some service providers, and traffic congestion, threatened to dampen the overall visitor experience.

    “Presently, we are doing an interrogation of the 2025 Detty December. I would say more positives than the negatives,” Musawa noted, highlighting accommodation shortages and vendor overpricing as key areas requiring intervention.

    Early Planning to Strengthen Delivery

    To address these gaps and ensure a more seamless festive season in December, the federal government plans to begin formal preparations as early as March 2026. Musawa explained that memoranda and strategic papers would be submitted to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to mobilise the necessary inter-agency collaboration and resources.

    She emphasised that early planning would help create a more coordinated approach among government agencies and stakeholders, improving logistics, infrastructure, and regulatory oversight ahead of the end-of-year festivities.

    Lagos as a Global Festive Hub — With Broader Ambitions

    Musawa reiterated that Lagos has increasingly become synonymous with Detty December, positioning the city as a preferred global destination for year-end tourism.

    However, she stressed the need to diversify festivities beyond Lagos by promoting cultural and event attractions in other states such as Calabar, Enugu, and Plateau, in order to spread economic benefits more evenly across the country.

    “We are hoping to expand this by creating more activities and content across the country,” she said, pointing to existing events like the Calabar Festival as models for broader engagement.

    Infrastructure, Funding and Visitor Experience

    In addition to planning, the minister said the government plans to provide stronger financial support and infrastructure development for the creative sector and Lagos State, where most major events are hosted.

    This includes the possible establishment of an endowment fund to support creative professionals and businesses, as well as encouraging the development of more high-end accommodation facilities.

    Musawa also expressed optimism that the ongoing upgrade of Lagos’ airports would enhance the arrival experience for visitors by the end of the year, and noted efforts by the Ministries of Works and the Lagos State Government to improve road networks to ease traffic flow.

    Despite improvements, she cautioned that unchecked pricing within the tourism ecosystem could undermine Nigeria’s competitiveness if not addressed.

    What “Detty December” Means for Nigeria

    • Detty December refers to the vibrant mix of festivities — from music concerts and nightlife parties to cultural showcases — that dominate Nigeria’s social calendar in December.

    • The season has grown into a significant tourism and economic event, attracting Nigerians in the diaspora and social tourists to major hubs like Lagos.

    • In 2025, the Federal Government also pursued partnerships for events like the Detty December Fest with Livespot360, aiming to institutionalize celebrations and global cultural showcases.

  • Police Nab Truck Driver, Recover 40 Bags of Explosive Devices in Oyo

    The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a truck driver following the interception of a consignment of suspected explosive devices concealed in 40 bags along a major highway in the state.

    The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP ___, disclosed this in a statement issued in Ibadan on Monday, saying the arrest was made during a routine stop-and-search operation by operatives of the command.

    According to him, the suspect, whose identity is being withheld pending the conclusion of investigations, was apprehended while conveying the consignment in a truck from an undisclosed location to another destination within the South-West region.

    “Acting on credible intelligence, our officers intercepted the truck and conducted a thorough search, which led to the discovery of 40 bags containing items suspected to be explosive devices,” the police commissioner said.

    He explained that preliminary findings suggested the materials could pose a serious threat to public safety if allowed to reach their intended destination.

    The police boss said the suspect was immediately taken into custody, while the recovered items were secured and transferred to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit for professional examination and safe handling.

    He added that the command had commenced a full-scale investigation to determine:

    • The exact nature of the explosive devices

    • Their source and intended destination

    • Possible links to criminal or terrorist networks

    “We are not ruling out any possibilities. All necessary steps are being taken to uncover the sponsors and collaborators behind this dangerous operation,” he said.

    The commissioner reassured residents of Oyo State that the situation was under control, urging members of the public to remain calm and go about their lawful activities without fear.

    He further called on citizens to support security agencies by providing timely and useful information that could help prevent crimes.

    “Security is a collective responsibility. We urge residents to report suspicious movements, objects or persons to the nearest police station or through our emergency lines,” he added.

    The arrest comes amid heightened security measures across the country following concerns over the illegal movement of arms and explosive materials.

    The police command reiterated its commitment to sustaining proactive policing strategies to safeguard lives and property in the state.

  • Borno Communities on Edge as Nigerian Troops Arrest 65-Year-Old Woman for Supplying Drugs to Boko Haram

    Fear and relief are mixing in villages across Borno State following the arrest of a 65-year-old woman allegedly involved in supplying drugs to Boko Haram fighters. The arrest, made by Nigerian troops, has shone a spotlight on how deeply insurgency networks can infiltrate civilian life, leaving communities both shocked and anxious.

    Residents in the area described a mix of disbelief and fear upon learning of the woman’s alleged activities. Many expressed concern about the presence of insurgents within their communities and the risks posed by individuals who secretly provide support to terror groups.

    “She has been part of our community for decades. We never suspected she could be involved in something so dangerous,” said one local elder, speaking on condition of anonymity. “It makes you wonder who else could be helping them in silence.”

    Military sources revealed that the woman allegedly supplied drugs intended to enhance Boko Haram fighters’ stamina and combat readiness. Her arrest was the result of meticulous intelligence work, highlighting the ongoing vigilance of security forces in a state that has been a frontline in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.

    The arrest has sparked conversations about community responsibility and the need for increased awareness. Local leaders are urging residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity, stressing that peace and security require the cooperation of everyone.

    Psychologists and social workers in the area warn that such incidents can heighten anxiety, especially among families who live daily under the shadow of insurgency. “Even when insurgents are not directly attacking, the fear that they are being supported from within the community creates stress and trauma,” noted a mental health worker in Maiduguri.

    Authorities have confirmed that the woman is currently under investigation, and military operations continue across Borno to dismantle networks that provide logistical support to Boko Haram.

    Officials insist that these efforts are not only about combating terrorism but also about protecting innocent civilians and restoring a sense of normalcy to affected communities.

    As Borno residents grapple with the dual emotions of fear and relief, one message has resonated across villages: vigilance and community cooperation remain critical in the fight against insurgency.

  • 2026 U.S. Visa Policy: Existing Nigerian Students Safe, New Applicants Face Challenges

    Nigerian students planning to study in the United States may still have opportunities despite recent visa restrictions, but the path has become more challenging. The U.S. government recently announced new visa policies affecting citizens from Nigeria and other countries, citing national security and immigration considerations.

    New Visa Restrictions

    Starting January 1, 2026, certain U.S. visa categories for Nigerians have been partially suspended. These include:

    • F visas – for academic students

    • M visas – for vocational and technical students

    • J visas – for exchange visitors

    • B visas – for business and tourism

    Additionally, immigrant visas (green cards) are affected, though limited exemptions exist for special cases. The new policy does not automatically revoke previously issued visas.

    “Nigerians with valid visas issued before January 1, 2026, can still travel, enrol, and continue their studies in the U.S.,” officials confirmed.

    Impact on Current and Prospective Students

    • For current students:
    Students already studying in the U.S. on valid F, M, or J visas can maintain their status and continue their academic programs. Travel outside the U.S. may involve additional scrutiny, but re-entry is possible with valid visas.

    • For new applicants:
    Prospective students applying from Nigeria now face significantly restricted visa approval chances.
    Only a few exemptions may apply, including dual nationals using non-restricted passports, lawful permanent residents, or special immigrant visa holders.

    Universities in the U.S. are offering options such as deferred enrolment or online study for affected students until visa restrictions are eased.

    Looking Ahead

    While the restrictions are not permanent, their duration and future amendments remain uncertain. Experts advise prospective students to stay informed on U.S. visa announcements and consider alternative study destinations such as Canada or the United Kingdom.

    Practical Advice

    • Maintain valid documentation and proof of financial support.

    • Existing visa holders should continue to comply with U.S. study regulations.

    • New applicants should explore exemptions or alternative study options.

    Conclusion

    Nigerian students can still pursue studies in the U.S. in 2026 if they hold valid visas issued before the restrictions. However, new visa applications are currently limited, making careful planning essential for aspiring students.

    SOURCE: Legit.ng | Channelstv.com

  • Anambra To Deduct Salaries Of Workers Over Monday Sit-at-home — GOVT

    The Anambra State Government has announced that salaries of civil servants in the state will be docked if they fail to report to work on Mondays — a move aimed at ending the long-standing Monday sit-at-home directive enforced by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

    The decision was disclosed on Saturday in Awka by Dr. Law Mefor, the Commissioner for Information, at the conclusion of the end-of-tenure retreat of the Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC). The retreat evaluated the performance of the administration of Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo over the past four years and charted priorities for the new term starting March 17, 2026.

    Under the new arrangement, which takes effect from February 2026, civil servants will be paid on a pro-rata basis — meaning that workers who do not appear for duty on Mondays will forfeit the pay attributable to that day.

    According to Mefor, the policy was introduced to tackle persistent absenteeism on Mondays, which government records show has continued despite improvements in security and transport conditions across the state. “Some workers have taken advantage of the situation, knowing they would receive full salaries regardless of attendance,” he said.

    He explained that the government had opted for a less punitive approach than the usual civil service disciplinary measures, such as dismissal, by introducing pro-rata pay. Attendance registers will be instituted requiring workers to clock in on Monday mornings and clock out at the close of work to ensure compliance.

    The commissioner noted the negative impact of Monday absenteeism on governance, stating that every lost workday translates to stalled government business and loss of revenue. He cited revenue-generating agencies like the Anambra Internal Revenue Service and other ministries, departments and parastatals as particularly affected.

    Mefor added that shifting official workdays to Saturdays was not considered viable, as it would signal a surrender to the sit-at-home order and make Anambra the only state in Nigeria with such a workweek.

    In addition to the salary policy, the government is engaging market leaders to encourage traders to reopen on Mondays and is bolstering security to build confidence among business operators to resume normal economic activities at the start of the week.

    The sit-at-home practice, originally enforced by non-state actors, has in past years disrupted commercial, educational and social activities in the state and has been widely criticised for its adverse impact on the economy.

  • Tribunal Cancels Nigerian-born Nurse’s Licence in Australia After Repeatedly Sleeping on Duty

    Nigerian-born nurse, Chimzuruoke Okembunachi, has had her nursing registration cancelled by an Australian tribunal after being found to have repeatedly slept during night shifts at an aged care facility in western Sydney, in a ruling that raised serious concerns about patient safety.

    The New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, ruled that Ms. Okembunachi’s conduct in March 2024 amounted to professional misconduct and posed significant risk to vulnerable elderly residents under her care, resulting in the cancellation of her licence to practise as a registered nurse.

    Ms. Okembunachi, 25, who moved to Australia from Nigeria in 2018, began working at Hardi Aged Care in Guildford, western Sydney, in February 2024. However, concerns about her performance emerged within weeks of commencing employment.

    According to tribunal findings, between March 13 and March 27, 2024, she was rostered as the sole registered nurse on night shifts, responsible for supervising three to four assistants-in-nursing (AINs) and tending to about 100 elderly residents. On at least six occasions, she reportedly fell asleep while on duty instead of performing critical nursing duties.

    Evidence presented before the tribunal showed that on three nights, residents did not receive their prescribed doses of morphine because Ms. Okembunachi was asleep, and on another occasion she instructed an AIN — who was not authorised to administer medication — to give Panadol to a resident, reportedly saying, “It’s okay, sister, just give it to him.”

    In one incident on the night of March 21–22, a colleague attempted to rouse her by switching on a nurses’ station light, only for her to switch it off and return to sleep moments later, the tribunal was told.

    Concerns about her conduct were formally raised by two nursing colleagues on March 27, 2024, prompting her suspension the next day. Ms. Okembunachi resigned approximately 20 minutes after receiving a suspension notice, declining an invitation to a disciplinary meeting.

    Addressing the tribunal, Ms. Okembunachi acknowledged her actions and expressed remorse, admitting that acceptance of night shifts while managing personal stressors — including her medical studies at Western Sydney University — contributed to the incidents. She stated, “These events caused me significant stress… In hindsight, I should not have applied for, or accepted the position at Hardi.”

    Despite her contrite attitude, the tribunal determined that deregistration was necessary to protect patient welfare, noting that her conduct “had the potential to endanger the lives of patients under her care.” Ms. Okembunachi is barred from applying for a review of the cancellation order for at least nine months.

    Ms. Okembunachi has not returned to nursing practice since the suspension but continues her medical studies, supported by her family and a Centrelink Student Allowance.

  • NAFDAC, Bishops Raise Alarm Over Fake ‘Anointing’ Goya Oil from Illegal Factory

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and senior Christian clerics have sounded an urgent warning about the circulation of counterfeit Goya oil in Nigeria, raising concerns over public health and safety.

    The Ecumenical Synods of Bishops, Archbishops, Apostles and Senior Clergy said churches lack the capacity to identify fake or adulterated anointing oil and urged NAFDAC to strengthen enforcement efforts to protect worshippers and consumers.

    The warning follows the recent discovery by NAFDAC officials of an illegal factory producing fake Goya oil in the Oke-Arin market area of Idumota, Lagos State. The counterfeit product, often sold in plastic (PET) bottles, was found to be mixed with burnt palm oil and colouring agents before being repackaged to resemble the genuine brand.

    Goya oil, widely used both as a premium edible oil and as anointing oil in churches for prayers, healing and spiritual protection, has become a target for counterfeiters capitalising on its popularity among Nigerians.

    Speaking with Sunday PUNCH, the International Secretary of the clerical body, Osazee William, commended NAFDAC’s operation, describing the discovery as “timely and commendable.” He emphasised that churches cannot be expected to detect counterfeit products brought to them, saying it is the responsibility of regulatory agencies to safeguard the public against unsafe products.

    NAFDAC’s Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Dr Martins Iluyomade, reiterated that Goya oil sold in PET plastic bottles is fake and unlicensed, adding that the only legitimate product is imported in original bottles by authorised dealers. He disclosed that the agency recovered equipment, stoves and empty bottles at the illegal production site.

    Iluyomade warned that many Nigerians may be unknowingly using the harmful, counterfeit product and urged religious organisations to stop the sale of PET-bottled Goya oil during gatherings. He also appealed to the public to report suspected counterfeiting activities to the nearest NAFDAC office and advised that offenders would be prosecuted.

    In related enforcement actions, NAFDAC also arrested a suspect, identified as Moses Nelson, in connection with the distribution of adulterated and counterfeit alcoholic drinks. Empty exotic alcohol bottles, sachets and PET-bottled alcoholic products were recovered from his residence in Badagry, Lagos State.

    The agency reiterated its commitment to pursuing counterfeiters endangering Nigerians’ health for quick profit and urged citizens to remain vigilant against substandard and falsified products.

  • Tragedy in Jigawa: Newlywed Wife Arrested for Allegedly Poisoning Husband with Rat Poison

    Tragedy struck a quiet community in Gauza village, Jahun Local Government Area of Jigawa State, on Friday afternoon, 23 January 2026, when a newly married man reportedly died after consuming a meal laced with rat poison, the State Police Command has confirmed.

    According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Superintendent Shi’isu Lawan Adam, the victim fell seriously ill shortly after taking his lunch at home around 5:00 p.m. and was later rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention. He was pronounced dead while undergoing treatment, the police said.

    Prompted by the sudden collapse and subsequent death, detectives from the Jahun Division launched an investigation that led to the arrest of the deceased’s wife as the principal suspect in the case.

    During interrogation, the suspect allegedly confessed to deliberately poisoning her husband’s food with rat poison, the police spokesman disclosed. She reportedly admitted that she had sent her cousin to purchase the toxic substance used in the act.

    In her statement to investigators, the woman claimed that she was forced into the marriage by her parents, a situation she described as the motivation behind her drastic action.

    Police Response and Next Steps

    The Commissioner of Police in Jigawa State has directed that the matter be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Dutse for an in-depth probe, the PPRO said.

    Upon conclusion of the forensic and investigative processes, the suspect will be charged to court for prosecution under applicable Nigerian laws.

    Police urged residents to remain calm, law‑abiding and to seek peaceful, lawful mechanisms to resolve family or marital disputes, while warning against taking the law into one’s own hands, noting that such responses could have irreversible consequences.

    The Jigawa State Police Command assured the public of its unwavering commitment to justice, protection of lives and property, and the rule of law as the investigation continues.

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