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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.
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.
The Lagos State Government has announced the commencement of a new recruitment exercise into the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), as part of efforts to strengthen grassroots security and enhance community policing across the state.
The recruitment, coordinated by the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA), is open to qualified Nigerians who are willing to serve as Neighbourhood Safety Officers in communities across the state’s local government areas.
According to the agency, the exercise is aimed at increasing the manpower of the corps to enable it to respond more effectively to security challenges, protect lives and property, and support other security agencies in maintaining law and order at the community level.
The LNSC, a uniformed security outfit established by the Lagos State Government, plays a key role in intelligence gathering, neighbourhood surveillance and early warning reporting, particularly at the grassroots.
Available Position
• Position: Neighbourhood Safety Officer
• Cadre: Group B
• Location: Lagos State
• Employment Type: Full-time
Eligibility and Requirements
Applicants interested in joining the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps must meet the following conditions:
• Must be a Nigerian citizen
• Must possess a minimum of five (5) credit passes in WASSCE, NECO, GCE or NABTEB, including English Language and Mathematics, obtained in not more than two sittings
• Higher qualifications such as OND, NCE, HND or university degree will be an added advantage
• Must be physically, mentally and medically fit
• Must be of good character and free from any criminal record
• Must be within the approved age bracket as stated on the recruitment portal Minimum height requirement applies for both male and female applicants
• Applicants must not be financially embarrassed and must be willing to serve anywhere in Lagos State
The agency noted that applicants with knowledge of local communities, ability to communicate in indigenous languages and basic security awareness may have an added advantage.
Recruitment Process
The recruitment exercise will be conducted in stages, which include:
1. Online application
2. Shortlisting of qualified candidates
3. Screening and verification of credentials
4. Physical and medical assessments
5. Final selection and training
Only candidates who successfully pass all stages will be considered for appointment.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified applicants are advised to apply online only through the official Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency portal.
• Upload relevant credentials and identification documents
• Submit the application and keep a copy of the acknowledgement slip
Important Notice
The Lagos State Government warned applicants to beware of fraudsters, stressing that the recruitment exercise is free of charge and that no individual or group has been authorised to collect money on behalf of the agency.
The government added that only shortlisted candidates would be contacted through official communication channels for further instructions.
Background
The Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps was established to complement existing security agencies by providing community-based intelligence and surveillance services. The corps operates at the ward and local government levels, helping to detect and prevent crime through close interaction with residents.
The latest recruitment drive is part of the state’s broader strategy to improve security architecture and ensure safer communities across Lagos.
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.
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.
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.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced the removal of special accommodations and registration privileges previously extended to candidates with albinism for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The Board attributed the decision to widespread abuses of the concession process, including falsification of information.
Key Decision and Rationale
JAMB cited examination malpractice and manipulation of registration procedures as the primary reasons for scrapping the special privileges earlier granted to candidates with albinism.
The Board explained that despite safeguarding efforts, some individuals used artificial intelligence and other means to pose as albino candidates to gain unfair advantage. Reports indicated that over 7,000 individuals applied under the albino category in the previous UTME cycle.
Context of the Announcement
The decision emerged from a meeting convened on Saturday in Ikeja, Lagos, where JAMB management — led by Registrar Prof. Isaq Oloyede — and Education Commissioners from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory reviewed past admission exercises.
Additional Policy Clarifications and Guidance
Faith-Based Institutions
• JAMB urged faith-based tertiary schools to clearly declare their religious affiliation up front during admissions.
• The Board warned against schools that present themselves as secular, only to later impose religious practices or injunctions on enrolled students.
Undergraduate and Repeat Candidates
• Highlighting abuse from previous UTME cycles, JAMB noted that some undergraduate students took the UTME again either to change courses or to help others gain admission.
• In one highlighted case, the candidate with the highest score was found to be a 300‑level university student. JAMB announced that future candidates must declare their academic status; those who withhold such information will be disqualified and risk losing their current admission status.
Admission Criteria Reinforcement
Registrar Oloyede reiterated how federal universities allocate their admission slots:
• 45 % on merit
• 20 % based on catchment areas
• 20 % for educationally disadvantaged states
• Remaining slots for other considerations
JAMB also encouraged states to reserve at least 10 % of slots for merit to ensure broader access for academically gifted candidates.
Underage Candidates Policy
• JAMB confirmed that the minimum age for university admission remains 16 years, with a special attestation process for exceptional cases.
• In the previous UTME cycle, although about 42,000 individuals applied under age claims, only 78 were verified and admitted after thorough evaluation.
Efforts to Curb Examination Malpractice
Other measures discussed at the meeting include:
• Prohibiting the movement of registered computers between Computer‑Based Test (CBT) centres to restrict malpractice opportunities.
• Reaffirming that candidate exam assignments reflect personal data from National Identification Numbers, challenging rumours of arbitrary postings to unintended test locations.
UTME Update and Institutional Funding
• JAMB reported that out of nearly 1.95 million 2025 UTME candidates, 974,855 have been offered admission into tertiary institutions.
• The Board also disclosed that over ₦2.4 billion had been disbursed to universities that consistently adhered to JAMB standards over the past decade. Decisions were made to reward schools that produce high‑performing candidates.
Accreditation and CBT Centre Oversight
• Accreditation teams, composed of university vice‑chancellors, rectors, and provosts from each state, are overseeing CBT centres.
• JAMB cautioned state governments against partnering with private operators that may facilitate malpractice through CBT facilities.
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.
MTN Nigeria, one of the leading telecommunications companies in Africa, has officially opened its careers portal to the public. The platform is designed to provide job seekers with a transparent, accessible, and streamlined way to explore employment opportunities across the company.
Overview of MTN Careers Portal
The portal serves as the central hub for all MTN Nigeria job vacancies, allowing candidates to:
• Browse Current Vacancies: All active roles across departments, locations, and levels are listed in one place.
• Search & Filter Jobs: Easily find roles that match your skills, experience, and career interests.
• Create a Professional Profile: Build your profile on the portal to manage applications, save job preferences, and receive updates on relevant roles.
• Apply Directly Online: Submit applications securely and efficiently, without the need for intermediaries.
Why Apply Through the MTN Portal?
• Authenticity: All jobs listed are verified and directly from MTN Nigeria.
• User-Friendly Experience: The portal is designed to simplify your job search and application process.
• Career Growth: MTN offers opportunities in technology, marketing, operations, customer service, finance, and more.
• Transparency: Track your application status in real-time and receive timely notifications.
How to Apply
1. Visit the official MTN Nigeria Careers portal.
2. Browse available job listings and select a role that fits your profile.
3. Create an account or log in to your existing profile.
4. Complete the online application form and submit your CV.
5. Track the progress of your application through your account dashboard.
How to Apply
MTN Nigeria Careers Homepage – View & Apply for Jobs
This is the official MTN Nigeria careers portal where all current job vacancies are listed. You can search roles, create a profile, and apply directly online.
Pro Tip: Keep your CV updated and tailored to the role you are applying for. Highlight relevant skills, experience, and achievements to increase your chances of being shortlisted.
SOURCE: MTN Nigeria | Official Careers Portal
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