Taraba NUT clears air on alleged withdrawal of support for Gov Kefas over salary

The Taraba state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, has distanced itself from reports alleging that it issued a warning to the state governor Agbu Kefas  over the non payment of four months’ salary arrears.

The union further cleared that it did not mandate anyone to threaten withdrawal of support for the governor ahead of 2027 over the said arrears.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Nathan Solomon, and made available to journalists in the state on Friday, the union said it did not authorize any individual or group to issue such warnings or speak on its behalf on the matter.

The union stressed that it remains committed to the welfare of its members and engages relevant authorities strictly through due process.

Solomon also dismissed claims circulating on social media that the union threatened that Governor Agbu Kefas could lose his position or the political support of thousands of teachers ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The claims did not emanate from the NUT and should be ignored by the public,” the statement read.

Afrinvest renames Optimus, targets broader digital investors

AfrinvestInvestment management firm Afrinvest has announced the rebranding of its digital investment platform, Optimus by Afrinvest, to PlutusNeo by Afrinvest.

In a statement on Friday, the rebranding was described as the next phase of the firm’s digital strategy, focused on expanding access to wealth creation.

The digital platform, first launched in 2022, was created to give individuals secure and easy access to Afrinvest-managed investment products through a modern digital interface. Since its launch, it has become a trusted channel for Nigerians seeking professionally managed investment solutions, supported by Afrinvest’s over 30 years of experience across Nigeria’s capital markets.

Speaking on the rebrand, the Managing Director of PlutusNeo by Afrinvest, Ayodeji Ebo, said the change positions the platform for long-term growth.

“Optimus represented an important phase in our digital investment journey. PlutusNeo builds on that progress, evolving the platform into one designed to support long-term wealth creation for a broader audience. It also reflects our vision to develop a more connected digital ecosystem over time,” he said.

According to the Group Managing Director of Afrinvest, Ike Chioke, the platform reflects the firm’s long-standing commitment to inclusive wealth creation.

“For over 30 years, Afrinvest has operated through multiple market cycles, and that experience shapes how we approach investing,” he said. “We understand the importance of discipline and long-term thinking in wealth creation. PlutusNeo extends this approach to a wider audience, allowing more people to participate meaningfully in building wealth, regardless of income level or status.”

NAMA assures safe flights amid harmattan haze

Nigerian Airspace Management Agency – NAMA

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency has reassured air travellers that Nigeria’s airspace and airport landing facilities remain safe and fully operational during the current haze associated with the harmattan season.

In a Friday statement signed by the spokesperson of the agency, Dr Abdullahi Musa, the agency addressed public concerns over flight operations amid reduced visibility during the Harmattan.

Usually, harmattan rents the atmosphere in Nigeria from December till sometime in February. NAMA dismissed insinuations that navigational facilities at Nigerian airports are poorly maintained or unfit for operations during the haze period, describing such claims as misleading and not supported by technical facts.

According to the agency, all navigational aids at Federal Government airports are routinely maintained, flight-checked, and calibrated in strict compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization Standards and Recommended Practices, as well as the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations.

Speaking on the matter, the NAMA spokesperson added that the maintenance and calibration of critical air navigation infrastructure are mandatory safety requirements.

He said, “These processes are not optional. They are compulsory safety procedures carried out using NAMA’s dedicated flight inspection and calibration aircraft, operated by highly trained technical and flight inspection personnel.”

He explained that key systems such as Instrument Landing Systems, VHF Omnidirectional Range, Distance Measuring Equipment, and other Communication, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management facilities undergo periodic ground and airborne verification to ensure accuracy, signal integrity, and operational reliability.

He added that all calibration and maintenance activities are conducted under continuous regulatory oversight by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. “The NCAA audits our compliance, validates calibration cycles, and enforces corrective actions where required, ensuring that safety standards are consistently upheld,” he said.

He cited AIP Supplement S81/2025, dated 9 October 2025, which documented the calibration and serviceability status of all NAVAIDs in Nigeria.

“At the time of that publication, only the ILS facilities at Maiduguri, Ilorin, Owerri, Zaria, Minna, and Calabar were approaching their due calibration dates, while all other systems nationwide were within valid inspection periods,” Musa stated.

He revealed that NAMA conducted a nationwide round of flight calibration exercises in December 2025, restoring serviceability timelines at several airports, with another round scheduled early in the new year for Katsina, Jos, Ilorin, Yola, and Owerri airports.

Addressing public debate over the absence of CAT III Instrument Landing Systems at all airports, Musa clarified that such systems are not a universal requirement for safe operations during haze conditions.

“The deployment of ILS CAT I, CAT II, or CAT III is based on operational needs, traffic volume, aircraft capability, and long-term meteorological data, not on public perception.

“NAMA has therefore designed and published instrument approach procedures aligned with ILS CAT II minima, which adequately support safe aircraft operations during the most challenging seasonal conditions typically experienced in Nigeria,” Musa explained.

He emphasised that the absence of widespread CAT III systems does not indicate compromised safety, stressing that aviation safety depends on the appropriateness and reliability of systems in use.

Musa further noted that delays, diversions, or cancellations during the haze period are largely influenced by weather conditions, airline operational decisions, and aircraft capability rather than failures of navigational aids.

He added that NAMA works closely with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency to ensure the continuous dissemination of accurate weather information and provide real-time air traffic management support throughout the haze period.

“While haze conditions present operational challenges, they do not imply infrastructural failure or reduced safety standards. Our priority remains the safety, security, and efficiency of air travel in Nigeria,” he said.

Insurance firms project N10.59bn combined Q1 profit

Nigerian-Insurance-firms-e1721202317384-750×375Nigerian insurers are projected to record a combined Profit After Tax of N10.59bn for the first quarter of 2026, according to company filings with the Nigerian Exchange Group.

The forecast reflects strong contributions from major players, including AIICO Insurance Plc, Regency Alliance Insurance Plc, AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, and International Energy Insurance Plc.

AIICO Insurance Plc leads the sector with a projected PAT of N5.06bn, driven by an insurance service result of N3.26bn and net investment income of N20.85bn. Its cash flow outlook shows a net increase in cash and cash equivalents of N4.87bn, bringing closing cash balances to N24.08bn.

Regency Alliance Insurance Plc is expected to deliver a profit after tax of N1.06bn, supported by insurance revenue of N3.75bn and investment income of N420.27m. The company forecasts a net cash increase of N238.63m, ending the quarter with N1.52bn in cash and bank balances.

AXA Mansard Insurance Plc projects a PAT of N3.60bn, with insurance revenue of N47.18bn and net investment and other income of N5.42bn. Despite investment outflows of N7.02bn, the company maintains a strong cash position of N9.20bn at the quarter-end.

International Energy Insurance Plc forecasts a profit after tax of N868.48m, based on gross written premiums of N3.76bn and an insurance service result of N2.71bn.

FirstBank completes N500bn capital raise

Femi OtedolaAs someone who has spent over three decades investing, building businesses, and navigating Nigeria’s economic cycles, I rarely comment publicly on policy. But there are moments when leadership must be acknowledged.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown remarkable courage and clarity in steering our country through difficult but necessary reforms. His bold sense of direction, guided by a deep understanding of our economy, has created the foundation for policies that are now being recognised across the world. I have seen many administrations, but his conviction at this critical time deserves commendation.

In that same spirit of boldness, the Central Bank Governor, Mr. Yemi Cardoso, has been nothing short of exceptional. The slowdown in the rate of inflation is proof of his disciplined return to orthodox monetary policy. This is not theory; these are real results, visible in the gradual easing of pressure on households and businesses.I appreciate this because I know, from experience, how damaging policy inconsistency can be.

His reforms in the foreign exchange market have restored confidence that had long been missing. For the first time in years, the naira is strengthening on the back of market forces not artificial fixes. To me, this is the most powerful signal that we are finally doing things the right way. The fact that our external reserves have climbed to a seven-year high above $46 billion is further evidence of his steady hand.

I am also impressed by the bold decision to recapitalize the banking sector. Some people criticised it early on, unnecessarily in my view, but today it is clear it was the right move. Following the massive profits banks recorded in 2024, 2025 has rightly become a year of prudence and consolidation.This is the only way banks can support real sector lending and drive genuine economic growth next year.

From where I stand, and with the benefit of many years in Nigeria’s business landscape, I believe it is time to raise the minimum capital requirement for international banking licences from ₦500 billion to at least ₦1 trillion. A modern economy aiming for the $1 trillion mark cannot rely on weakly capitalised banks. Stronger banks mean better governance, broader ownership, and institutions that are not run like personal estates, a problem we have lived with for far too long.

FirstBank, the commercial banking arm of First HoldCo Plc, has met the ₦500 billion minimum capital base required by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for an international banking licence. The shareholders of FirstHoldco are committed to injecting additional capital into its existing subsidiaries and new business adjacencies.

I say this without hesitation: Yemi Cardoso is the best Central Bank Governor Nigeria has ever produced. His calmness, discipline, and unwavering focus on doing what is right, not what is easy, reminds me of the kind of leadership any serious economy needs.

I encourage him to continue on this path. Nigeria is turning a corner, and those of us who believe in this country will continue to support the bold monetary reforms that are laying a stronger foundation for our future.

Fidelity Bank appoints Onwughalu as new Chairman 

Tier one lender, Fidelity Bank Plc, has announced the completion of the tenure of Mr. Mustafa Chike-Obi as Chairman of its Board of Directors effective December 31, 2025, and the appointment of Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu as the new Chairman of the Board, effective January 1, 2026.
The board transitions are in alignment with the Bank’s policy and have been communicated to the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Nigerian Exchange Group, and other stakeholders.
Under Mr. Chike-Obi’s leadership, Fidelity Bank repaid its Eurobond, completed the first tranche of its public offer and rights issue that were oversubscribed by 237 percent and 137.73 percent respectively, expanded internationally to the United Kingdom, and received improved ratings from various agencies amongst a long list of achievements. His tenure also saw the Bank strengthen its capital position, record steady growth in customer deposits and total assets, deepen its digital banking capabilities, and enhance its corporate and investment banking proposition. The bank equally made notable progress in governance, risk management, and operational efficiency, all of which contributed to strengthened market confidence and the Bank’s sustained upward performance trajectory.
Reflecting on his tenure, Mr. Mustafa Chike-Obi said, “It has been a privilege to serve as Chairman of Fidelity Bank. The dedication of our Board, management, and staff has enabled us to reach significant milestones. I am confident that the Bank will continue to thrive and deliver value to all stakeholders.”
Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu’s appointment marks a new chapter for Fidelity Bank. She joined the Board in December 2020 and has chaired key committees. With over 30 years of banking experience, including executive roles at Mainstreet Bank Limited and Skye Bank Plc. She holds degrees in Economics, Corporate Governance, and Business Administration, and has attended executive programmes at global institutions. Mrs. Onwughalu is a Fellow of several professional bodies and has received awards for accountability and financial management.
“I am honoured to lead the Board of Fidelity Bank at this exciting time. Our recent achievements have set a strong foundation for continued growth. I look forward to working with my colleagues to drive our strategy and deliver sustainable value,” commented Mrs. Onwughalu.
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.
2027: If Peter becomes someone’s running mate, I will walk away from him – Pat Utomi

Prof Pat Utomi, a political economist, has said that he would walk away from the former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, whenever he decides to become someone’s running mate.

Prof Utomi stated this on Thursday when he appeared as a guest in an interview on ‘Politics Today’, a programme on Channels Television monitored by DAILY POST.

He was speaking on Peter Obi’s defection to the African Democratic Congress, ADC.

DAILY POST reports that Obi alongside other prominent leaders of the Southeast on Wednesday officially defected to the ADC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“I can tell you that Peter Obi will contest for the presidency come 2027 general elections. The day he becomes somebody’s running mate, I will walk away from his corner. I can tell you that for a fact.

“And secondly, something very important for this election to bear in mind is that the Nigerian presidency has become a retirement home where people go for the Nigerian state to pay their medical bills.

“This is not acceptable. They don’t have the fitness to run the country. The last one and even the current one do not have the fitness to run the affairs of this great nation,” he said.

Make peace with Wike – Borno PDP elders tell Makinde, Mohammed

Stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Borno State have called on Governor Bala Mohammed and his Oyo State counterpart, Seyi Makinde to sheath their swords, embrace party unity, and realign their loyalty to FCT Minister, Nyesom  Wike.

Chairman of the stakeholders, Grema Kyari, made this call while addressing journalists in Maiduguri, commending the FCT Minister for his commitment to discipline and institutional integrity.

Kyari, a member of the National Working Caretaker Committee,  also hailed the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, for rejecting the outcome of the Ibadan Convention, which produced Kabiru Turaki as the National Chairman of the party.

The group further extolled the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led National Working Caretaker Committee for its bold, timely, and lawful decision to dissolve the Borno State PDP Executive Committee and approve the constitution of a Borno State PDP Working Caretaker Committee.

It noted that the action has brought renewed hope to party members across the state just as it reflected the aspirations of PDP faithful in Borno State who have long awaited justice and internal democracy.

“Wike’s steadfast commitment to discipline, constitutionalism, and institutional integrity remains unprecedented, especially in the face of sustained pressure and actions from governors Bala Mohammed and Seyi Makinde, who are supported by Barrister Kabiru Turaki, which have deepened the internal crisis of our party.

“In view of these undeniable facts, we hereby call on Barrister Kabiru Turaki, Governor Bala Mohammed (former Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum), and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State to sheath their swords, embrace party unity, and realign their loyalty with our National Leader, His Excellency Chief Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, whose role in strengthening and repositioning the PDP is well known,” the group said.

AIG condemns attack on Ipele police station, vows arrest of perpetrators

The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG, in charge of Zone 17, Ajani Musibau, has strongly condemned the attack on the Ipele Divisional Police Headquarters in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, describing it as a grave and unacceptable threat to public peace and security.

The AIG made the remarks during an on-the-spot assessment of the damaged police facility on Thursday, alongside the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal.

The inspection team included senior officers of the command, as well as representatives of the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, and other security agencies.

During the visit, the team examined the extent of damage caused by the attack, in which armed assailants reportedly set the police station ablaze, destroying the building and several important exhibits.

No casualty was recorded, as all officers stationed at the division were unharmed.

Speaking after the assessment, AIG Musibau expressed deep concern over the scale of destruction and vowed that the Nigeria Police Force would spare no effort in ensuring that those responsible are identified and prosecuted.

He described the incident as an unforgivable assault on the security architecture of Ondo State, stressing that all lawful and operational measures would be deployed to track down the perpetrators.

The AIG further assured that security has been reinforced in the area, adding that welfare arrangements would be made for affected personnel.

He also disclosed that plans were already underway for the reconstruction of the damaged police station.

In his remarks, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, noting that ongoing reforms and technological innovations under his administration have continued to strengthen policing operations across the state.

CP Lawal also acknowledged the support of Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his consistent backing of security agencies in maintaining peace and public safety.

He assured residents that the command, in collaboration with other security agencies, have intensified efforts to apprehend those behind the attack.

According to him, additional operational resources, including Tactical Units, Explosive Ordnance Disposal-Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) teams, as well as Police Mobile Force units, have been deployed to the area to restore and sustain security.

The commissioner urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements to security agencies, assuring residents that the situation is under control and that investigations remain ongoing.

2026: Pastor Adeboye predicts reduction in hunger, growth of small businesses

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has released his prophecies for 2026, projecting economic relief for Nigeria and a possible reversal of the mass migration trend popularly known as “japa.”

Pastor Adeboye delivered the prophecies during the church’s annual crossover service held at Redemption City on New Year’s Eve, offering messages of hope for Nigeria and cautious optimism for the global community.

Speaking on the national outlook, the cleric disclosed the first part of a two-part prophecy, noting that he would pray further on the second part before deciding whether to release it later in the week.

According to him, 2026 would witness a noticeable reduction in hunger across the country, alongside renewed growth in small and medium-scale enterprises.

“This year, there will be a reduction in hunger. Small and medium enterprises will begin to blossom,” Adeboye declared

In a prophecy that has since gained wide attention online, the RCCG leader also predicted a “reverse japa” trend, describing a situation where Nigerians who had migrated abroad would begin to return home.

“He says something that I can only describe as reverse japa. Many who japa will come back home,” he said.

On the global stage, Pastor Adeboye said 2026 would be relatively calmer than the previous year, particularly in terms of global conflict.

“On the international scene, he says the chance of a major war is less this year than last year,” he noted.

However, he cautioned that weather patterns would largely mirror those of 2025, with the possibility of a few major hurricanes occurring during the year.

Overall, the cleric described 2026 as a year of breakthroughs, predicting unprecedented success for individuals who remain steadfast in faith.