Isola Moses | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

The Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI), a think tank group, has said United States (US) President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a ���Country of Particular Concern��� (CPC) on the basis of jaundiced, obtrusive data provided by local and international groups with ulterior motives.

���Dr. Omoniyi Akinsiju, Chairman of IMPI, in a policy statement, noted the think-tank has identified ���Intersociety���, a local Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), and ���Open Doors���, a Christian charity, as two of the entities that have been reproducing false data to misrepresent the security situation in Nigeria over time.

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���The Group, however, expressed concern about the manner such groups with vested interests are manipulating terrorism-related data to paint Nigeria as a country where Christians are facing existential threats.

Akinsiju stated: “We are concerned about the inauspicious propagation of terrorism-related deaths in a singular religious conflict situation.

���However, for starters, we must acknowledge the sensitivity of this subject matter as it affects lives. For us, no single life is deserving of being extinguished for any reason.���

He also noted: ���In the same vein, it is immoral to concoct all manner of death-related data to justify a point of view.

���”The circulation of falsehoods in the campaign to designate Nigeria a CPC jurisdiction has become a worrisome trend.

���Our findings showed that it became a tool exploited by both Nigerian and foreign-based NGOs, as well as other vested interests, to drive their demands.

������Long before this official response, merchants of tainted data had populated the social media space with obtrusive figures.

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���The International Society for the Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) reported that 5,068 Christians were massacred in Nigeria in 2022, while Open Doors’ 2023 World Watch List reported that 5,014 Christians were killed for their faith in Nigeria in 2022, more than in the rest of the world combined. Those figures definitely did not portray the reality on the ground,��� it added.

���IMPI argued that its findings indicate that the total number of terrorism-related fatalities in Nigeria were not as high as the figures provided by InterSociety and Open Doors as data of Christian deaths alone.

���The think tank said: ���In contrast to the figures being bandied by these NGOs, the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) for 2022 noted that there were 6,701 deaths from terrorism globally, a 9% decrease from the previous year and 38% lower than the 2015 peak.

���The number of terrorism incidents globally also fell by nearly 28%, from 5,463 in 2021 to 3,955 in 2022, while deaths in Nigeria dropped to 392 in 2022, the lowest level since 2011.

���However, fatalities increased by 34 percent in 2023 to 533, and further to 565 in 2024, but not anywhere near the inflated figures generated by Intersociety, which reported that 8,222 Christians were killed in Nigeria in the 12 months between January 1, 2023, and January 1, 2024, describing it as the ���deadliest in recent years���.

Open Doors also reported that 82 percent of the 4,998 Christians killed globally for faith-related reasons in 2023, occurred in Nigeria, while the Observatory of Religious Freedom in Africa (ORFA) recorded 1,637 deaths of Christians between April and June 2023 alone.

������The trend continued in 2024 with this same set of advocacy groups providing higher figures for faith-related killings. A report from Open Doors claimed that 3,100 Christians were killed in Nigeria in 2024.

������According to the group, this made it the country with the most Christians killed globally for faith-based reasons that year,��� IMPI said.

The think-thank also stated: ���Another source published in August 2024 documented at least 7,087 Christians massacred in the first 220 days of the year (Humanangle.com, 2025).

������However, the Global Terrorism Index reported a fatality figure of 565 for 2024. This speaks to the industry of falsehood underpinning the advocacy to get Nigeria redesignated as a CPC.

������Yet, while we condemn any loss of life, the practical reality is that the data provided by GTI and Statista cannot, by any stretch of imagination, be described as genocide.

������Based on this background, we find it challenging to accept US President Trump’s decision to designate Nigeria as a CPC based on fictitious data circulated by a collection of NGOs.

������We expect the US to verify and validate any data presented to President Trump before using it to make a decision.���

���In tracking Intersociety activities, IMPI researchers found out that the group had since 2019 been cooking false data on what it called ���Christian deaths��� that were never in tandem with the Global Terrorism Index (GTI), and other reports on lethal violence in Nigeria.

���The Chairman noted: ���We note that in 2019, the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) reported a 39.1% decrease in terrorism deaths in Nigeria, from 2,043 in 2018 to 1,245 in 2019.

���The decline in fatalities, according to GTI, was primarily due to a fall in violence linked to Fulani extremists, despite a slight increase in common killings, the lowest since 2011.

������The GTI data is validated by Statista.com (Sasu, 2024). Though this 2019 terrorism data is in the public domain, the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety), a Nigerian Human Rights NGO in Anambra State, claimed there were between 1,000 and 1,200 ���Christian deaths��� in the same year.

���Another data contained in the ‘Ninth Annual Report on Lethal Violence in Nigeria,��� ��which covers the period between January 1 and December 31, 2019, was collected by Vitus Nwankwo Ukoji, with the help of Abiola Victoria Ayodokun and Victor Chinedu Eze of the University of Ibadan, wherein the researchers submitted that fatalities from lethal incidents inched up by 5.6% in 2019 after a 1.4% decline. According to the Report, there were 11,277 violent deaths in 2019.

������The import here is that Intersociety attributed virtually all reported fatalities to Christian deaths.

���This is an example of the deliberate inflation of data regarding killings in Nigeria to, in part, inflame divisive passion among the people, and to justify the designation of the country as a CPC by the American Government.

IMPI explained: ���The groups momentarily had their way in 2020, when, against all statistical sequences indicating a reduction in terrorism-related killings, especially those linked to religious conflicts, Trump, in the fourth year of his first term, declared and designated Nigeria as a CPC.

���It was a very questionable decision, given the declining number of terrorism-related deaths.���

���The group stated that a better understanding of the situation in Nigeria through government-to-government engagement would lead to the United States��� withdrawing Nigeria from its CPC list again.

���

���

Gbenga Kayode | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has restated that Nigeria remains on a steady growth trajectory, with more promise of stability and prosperity as his administration���s economic reforms continue to yield results, and gain both national and transnational acceptance.

Tinubu said this Thursday, November 6, 2025, in the State House, in Abuja, FCT, while speaking at the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting after the swearing-in Dr. Bernard Mohammed Doro, and Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh (SAN) as new Ministers.

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蟯簽瓬ぺ reports Dr. Doro has been assigned to administer the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, while Dr. Udeh will oversee the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology.

On diplomatic relations with President Trump���s United States

Speaking on the current state of the West African country���s economy, and the relationship between Nigeria and the United States (US), President Tinubu assured Nigerians and the international system, that the Federal Government is engaging with the world diplomatically.

Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Thursday stated President Tinubu explained: ���The most important thing is the fact that despite the political headwinds and the fear of our people, we will continue to engage with partners.

President Tinubu welcomes Dr. Bernard Mohammed Doro, Newly Sworn-in Honourable Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction

���The success of the $2.3 billion Eurobond that was oversubscribed by 400% is the most assuring.���

The Nigerian leaders further stated: ���So, the task ahead is immense; we are engaging the world diplomatically, and we assure all of you that we will defeat terrorism in this country.���

���The task ahead is immense, but it is our resolve to move forward with unity and purpose, guided by the Renewed Hope Agenda to build a prosperous, inclusive and resilient Nigeria.”

Nigeria will ���defeat terrorism, overcome the CPC designation��� ���President

In regard to the current security challenges facing the country, President Tinubu, who doubles as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, charged Nigerians to not succumb to despair.

He assured the citizenry that the government would defeat every form of terrorism, and secure every part of the country.

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The President, however, Ministers and other government officials to ensure ���consistency in communication��� and avoid discordant messaging in the public space.

He quipped: “Do we have problems? Yes. Are we challenged by terrorism? Yes. But we will defeat terrorism.

���We will overcome the CPC designation.�� Nigeria is one happy family, and we shall spare no effort until we eliminate all criminals from our society.

���We want our friends to help us as we step up our fight against terrorism, and we will eliminate it.���

Tinubu, who directed Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, to brief the Council on Nigeria���s economic performance, assuring that the Nigerian Government would continue to sustain and consolidate the gains recorded thus far.

Finance Minister highlights gains of reforms, state of economy

Earlier in his address during the FEC meeting Thursday, Mr. Wale Edun, Honourable Minister for Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, had noted that the macroeconomic indicators indicated the Nigerian economy had picked up, with one of the best results in the last decade.

Edun was quoted to have said: “The reforms that have been taken under your Renewed Hope Agenda, so bold and sometimes unpopular, are rooted in a clear objective to build a competitive economy that attracts, creates jobs and lifts millions out of poverty.

���In Q2 2025, Nigeria’s GDP grew by 4.23%, the highest in a decade, outside the COVID rebound. Thirteen sectors recorded growth above 7% up from nine sectors in the previous quarter.���

The Minister stated: ���The industrial sector nearly doubled its growth from 3.72% to 7.45%, reflecting rising productivity and investor confidence. Inflation eased to 18.02% in September 2025.

���As we know, foreign exchange reserves topped $43 billion, and our trade surplus reached N7.4 trillion.���

He also noted: ���Clear examples of macroeconomic stability, as the consumer spending basket published earlier this year shows, our citizens now spend maybe about half of the income on basic needs, food, shelter and clothing, as compared with almost 90 percent previously.

���This signals a country moving from subsistence towards productivity and indeed affluence.������

According to him, the vision of reaching a one trillion Dollar economy by 2030 was achievable by pursuing a 7 percent annual growth and a commitment to ending poverty as a moral imperative.

Edun averred: ���Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force Grey List marks a major milestone in strengthening our financial integrity and confidence.

���At the recent World Bank/IMF annual meetings, global leaders commended our reforms, our progress and the revised IMF growth forecast of up to nearly 4% and improved credit ratings.���

Ho, however, observed there is an urgency to mobilise domestic resources, and provide investment to finance infrastructure, as well as drive sustainability and job-rich growth.

The recent hugely successful $2.35 billion Eurobond issuance, in which the order book peaked at over $13 billion, is a testament to continued investor confidence in our country, our reform agenda and Mr. President’s leadership, stated he.

The Minister further said: ���Despite the political headwinds which we are all aware of, the market shrugged off those political considerations and focused on the economic fundamentals of Nigeria������ he stated.

For greater inclusivity, he urged fellow Ministers overseeing critical sectors, such as infrastructure, mining, education, health, agriculture, the blue economy, digital innovation, arts, and culture to collaborate with sub-national governments to identify and package projects that meet investor expectations.

Edun asserted: ���Every Naira must be optimised to sustain momentum amid global liquidity constraints. Where there is less funding from multilateral institutions, we must rely on our own resources.

���The next phase of reforms will remove barriers holding back investors. We will review tariffs and import restrictions to stimulate productivity and investment.���

Isola Moses | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

Following the Federal Government���s recent approval of 15 percent import tariff on the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, as well as diesel, the Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) has cautioned authorities that the proposal may jack up product pump price above N1,000 per litre.

蟯簽瓬ぺ reports Clement Isong, Executive Secretary of MEMAN, noted this during a joint webinar organised by the Association and S&P Global Commodity Insights Friday, November 7, 2025, in Lagos.

The webinar particularly examined the possible implications of the new oil imports tariff policy on the downstream petroleum market in the country.

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Isong also warned if the 15 percent fresh tariff on oil imports is implemented, the move would have far-reaching effects on energy consumers, transporters, and small-scale businesses already contending with rising inflation in the Nigerian economy.

Why we���re deeply concerned, by Executive Secretary

Restating MEMAN members��� apprehension about what may result from implementation of the import tariff, Isong declared: ���We are deeply concerned that such a tariff could push petrol to nearly N1,000 per litre in Lagos and over N1,020 in inland cities.���

The Executive Secretary also explained that diesel prices could rise to prices between N1,164 and N1,194 per litre, depending on marketing margins.

According to him, this possible scenario could jack up costs of logistics, and eventually be reflected in food prices for consumers in Nigeria.

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Describing the proposed import tariff policy as ���potentially regressive���, MEMAN Chief as well warned against deepening hardship, if the policy is not matched with measures to protect the poor and the vulnerable in the economy.

Isong further contended that ���low-income earners and small business operators will feel the immediate impact,��� he said.

He, therefore, urged the Federal Government to ensure transparency and accountability in fuel pricing the downstream petroleum sector.

He also stated: ���Government should publish open-market price computations and end-user prices regularly so that Nigerians can see what drives pump costs.���

On political economy of oil imports tariff policy

In terms of the economics behind the government fuel imports tariff regime, Isong acknowledged though President Tinubu���s administration must have formulated it to help local oil refiners to recover costs and compete globally, it could also increase the landed cost of imported fuel after all.

Isong said: ���Ultimately, importers will pass these additional costs to consumers���, warning that such a cost transfer could destabilise the domestic oil market.

The Executive Secretary further noted: ���If prices rise sharply, smaller importers may be squeezed out, leaving only a few dominant players.���

Urging strong regulatory oversight, Isong stated ���the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority must be vigilant to ensure fair competition and nationwide product availability.���

He proposed alternatives that could achieve the same policy goals without affecting consumers, as he recommended tariff caps to mitigate the impacts on Nigerians.

He suggested the ���government can adopt a phased or conditional tariff tied to verified increases in domestic refining capacity.

���A fixed cap of N50 per litre or $20 per metric tonne could limit the burden on ordinary Nigerians.���

According to him, there is a need for market transparency, as he urged reforms in border and Customs operations.

Isong equally harped on the proactive exchange rate management that could serve as natural protection for local refiners.

He added: ���An undervalued Naira can make imports more expensive and domestic production more attractive.���

Emmanuel Akosile | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) in partnership with the Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT) has granted the sum of N229 million to 14 awardees of the Developing Engineering Leaders Through Her (DELT-Her 2.0) initiative.

Speaking at the awards ceremony held at the Agency���s headquarters, Thursday, November 6, 2025, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice-Chairman/Chief Executive (EVC/CEO) of NASENI, stated that DELT-Her represents an opportunity platform through which women can turn bold engineering ideas into solutions that change the world.

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Halilu disclosed that out of the 9,925 project proposals, 14 women engineers emerged as awardees, receiving N229 million in grant funding to advance their innovative projects across critical sectors, such as agriculture, clean energy, health, mobility, digital security and environmental sustainability.

According to him, NASENI believes that gender inclusion is not charity; it is a strategy, as every woman empowered through DELT-Her represents new capacity for the country’s technology and manufacturing ecosystem.

This is with regard to a unique perspective that drives better designs, smarter products and more human-centred innovation.

Chima Cletus Akwaja, Deputy Director of Information at NASENI, in a statement Thursday, November 6, 2025, noted Halilu said: ���The 麍�rst edition of DELT-Her in 2024 ignited a movement by empowering six outstanding female engineers with N70.5 million in grant support to develop pioneering innovations.

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“This year, DELT-Her 2.0 attracted 9,925 project proposals, compared to just 120 applications in the previous year.���

The EVC/CEO stated: ���From mentoring 30 school girls in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in 2024, the programme scaled in 2025 to reach over 150 girls across Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Nasarawa and the FCT, providing mentorship, bootcamps and fabrication kits that have inspired them to develop their own prototypes.���

Earlier in his opening address at the event, Dr. Mohammed Dahiru, Chairman of PICTT, had commended the awardees.

Dahiru noted that their dedication, ingenuity and resilience exemplified the potential of women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

He also stated: ���As we honour these milestones, let us recommit to sustaining this momentum, ensuring that DELT-Her continues to bridge gaps and drive national development.”

The Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, represented by the Chairman, Senate Committee on NASENI, Senator Ezenwa Francis Onyewuchi, reaffirmed the commitment of the Senate to the ideals represented by NASENI.

Such ideas, he noted, include indigenous production, local content development and gender inclusion in science and technology.

Akpabio said: ���We believe that a nation that builds its technology builds its destiny, and a nation that empowers its women secures its future.”

Likewise, Dr. Doris Udoka, Honourable Minister of State for Finance, commended NASENI and PICTT for their foresight and dedication.

Udoka stated that their initiatives align meaningfully with the Federal Government���s broader commitment to promoting technological independence, industrial growth, gender inclusion and national competitiveness.

Goodwill messages came from the Postmaster-General and CEO, Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST), Engr. (Ms) Tola Odeyemi; Executive Director, Business Devt, Nigerian Export-Import Bank, Hon. Stella Okotete; Special Assistant on ICT to the President, Fawaz Amodu; representatives of President, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Minister of State for FCT; DG of PenCom; Secretary Government of the Federation and DG of NIMC.

Isola Moses | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

The 2025 Edition of the annual ���Trace In The City��� campus tour will go down as one of the most exhilarating, thanks to Nigeria���s premium malt drink, Malta Guinness.

In partnership with the tour���s organisers, TRACE Naija, the brand, renowned for fuelling the greatness and positive energy of Nigerian consumers, was on the ground to give students a tour to remember for a long time.

According to the organisers, the tour, designed to celebrate youth culture, creativity, and optimism, delivered unforgettable experiences filled with music, dance, and real connections.

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From the University of Ibadan (UI) to the University of Abuja, University of Calabar (UNICAL), University of Uyo (UNIUYO), and a grand finale at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), in Lagos, the nationwide tour brought together thousands of students who were treated to live performances from some of Nigeria���s hottest acts.

These include Falz, Qing Madi, Shoday, and Poco Lee.

Each stop was packed with high energy moments, inspiring conversations, and vibrant displays of real Nigerian talent.

At the Malta Guinness activation zones, students enjoyed chilled cans of Malta Guinness, and immersed themselves in the brand���s World of Goodness.

Dancers were not left out as students of each tertiary institution of learning competed in the Malta Guinness Steppers Challenge, winning cash prizes.

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Malta Guinness also rallied each institution towards a common goal: winning the Malta Guinness Goodness Challenge, which saw YABATECH coming in first, UNICAL in second place, and UI in third place.

The organisers noted that entire consumer experience mirrored the everyday optimism that defines the Nigerian youth spirit – bold, expressive, and full of life.

Speaking on the brand���s involvement, Garima Khandelwal, Head of Non-Alcoholic Beverages, Guinness Nigeria, said: ���Malta Guinness has always been more than just a drink; it is a symbol of positivity, energy, and real vitality.

“With our partnership with TRACE Naija, we are celebrating the youthful drive that keeps Nigeria moving.

“The ���Trace In The City��� tour is our way of inspiring students to stay energised, and live life fully.���

Across campuses, the atmosphere was charged with music, laughter, and shared moments of joy.

The Malta Guinness x ���TRACE In The City��� Campus Tour reinforced the brand���s commitment to celebrating and elevating youth culture while fuelling everyday optimism among Nigerian students.

By bringing its signature energy to campuses nationwide, Malta Guinness, once again, has demonstrated its commitment to championing real vitality and creating meaningful cultural moments that connect Nigerians everywhere.

Isola Moses | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

As part of its strategies to boost market share and deepen customers��� loyalty, the Pan-African Conglomerate, Dangote Industries Limited (DIL) and companies under the Group are set to headline this year���s Lagos International Trade Fair (LITF) with arrays of products and innovations.

蟯簽瓬ぺ reports the Lagos International Trade Fair commences Friday, November 7, 2025, at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Onikan, Lagos.

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DIL disclosed the business units from the Dangote Group that are exhibiting at the Fair include Dangote Sugar; Dangote Petroleum Refinery; Dangote Packaging; NASCON Allied Industries Plc, makers of Dangote Salt, Dangote Sinotruk Company; Dangote Fertiliser; Dangote Cement and Gata Rice.

The conglomerate also stated some of the products to be displayed at the Fair include Dangote Sugar in varying packs, Dangote Salt, Dangote seasoning, Dangote Fertiliser, Polypropylene, Rice and Sacks.

The Group also assured consumers that colour would be added to this year���s Trade Fair as Dangote Sugar, the largest Sugar Refinery in the West African country, introduces new 100g sachet and 25kg bag respectively.

The company noted the new packs offer affordable options to sugar consumers that are currently grappling with prevailing harsh economic conditions, due to low out-of-pocket spends for consumers, and working capital requirements for end users.

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Besides, the 100g will enhance in-home penetration of the Dangote brand, the DIL said.

Dangote noted that the new sugar packs, which formally, unveiled would be during the ���Dangote Day��� at the Fair Wednesday, November 12,�� is significant because the new 25kg is tied to Dangote Sugar Refinery���s 25th Anniversary celebration.

Affirming the company’s readiness for the forthcoming Fair in Lagos,

Mr. Anthony Chiejina, Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, in a statement said ���this year marks 25 years of Dangote Sugar���s existence, as such a major overhaul of our Apapa Refinery is ongoing to further position Dangote Sugar to meet customers requires, sustain delivery of premium quality products, and remain the preferred sugar refiner and brand by customers, consumers, and all other stakeholders.”

Chiejina also stated that visitors to Dangote Group’s pavilion at Fair would have the opportunity of buying products from Dangote Group Subsidiaries at reasonably reduced prices.

Also, the Fair would afford intending distributors and retailers the opportunity to get registered and commence business dealings with the company, stated he.

Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer further said Dangote Group holds that the Trade Fair is coming at an appropriate time, which affords distributors and retailers the opportunity to stock their shops for the fast-approaching Christmas season while end users and other consumers could also buy and stock for the season.

Some of the business units will be hosting students on specific days, Chiejina said.

According to Dangote Group, the student-visitors to the stand will get special gifts like pens, pencils, erasers and notebooks.

The Spokesman as well explained that visitors to the Group���s stand would have a first-hand experience as they would be treated to the usual friendly Dangote way of appreciating its customers and other stakeholders.

Speaking on the new Dangote Sugar packs, Rilwan Yusuf, Head of Marketing Operations, (Sales), Dangote Sugar Refinery, explained that the company decided to introduce the new 100g and 25kg packs to meet the ever-evolving needs of its various customers.

Yusuf said the new Dangote Sugar packs would attract volume, and drive growth from the unbranded segment. ���More importantly, the new packs will meet low out of pocket situation of consumers ��� affordability; drive trial and recruit users into the category by targeting ���bottom of pyramid��� consumers.

The Head of Marketing Operations (Sales) at Dangote Sugar Refinery, stated further the new packs would drive visibility in the marketplace; position Dangote Sugar as the market leader in innovation and in the retail segment; optimise market penetration; support working capital requirements for retailers and small bakeries.

Besides, any of the two new packs offers ease options for gifts and donations to loved ones and during celebrations.

Alexander Davis | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

It has been said that economics is a force of nature, an invisible hand that gives and, more recently, takes away.

We watch global indices, inflation charts, and the shrinking purchasing power of the Naira, Nigerian currency, with a sense of resigned inevitability.

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However, what if a company has decided to push back? What if, instead of merely responding to market forces, it has created a counter-force?

Konga Group says this is the story of “Konga Yakata”, Nigeria���s boldest retail response to inflation.

Benefits of ‘Yakata’ economic intervention

Far from being a shopping festival, Yakata has evolved into a nationwide economic intervention.

In the face of rising prices and tightening wallets, Konga���s month-long sales event has emerged as a stabilising force, helping households and consumers in general to stretch their Naira farther.

For years, the traditional 24-hour Black Friday rush has felt misaligned with Nigerian realities.

A single day of discounts cannot solve month-long financial pressure.

Yakata changes the model, transforming it into a 30-day strategic purchasing window.

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This isn���t a marketing gimmick; it is economic practicality.

It also gives families time to plan, prioritise, generators, laptops, and groceries.

These are not luxuries; they are investments in stability and productivity, made possible by Konga���s pricing and flexible payment options.

Beyond savings, Yakata has reshaped consumer behaviour.

It has taught shoppers to anticipate value, plan ahead, and expect quality without compromise.

The marketing initiative has evolved into a trusted national tradition.

Industry data reinforces its scale.

The 2024 Edition generated over ���12 billion in transaction value across electronics, fashion, appliances, and groceries, with small and medium sellers benefiting through Konga���s marketplaces.

In essence, Konga Yakata is not just a sales event, it is a market stimulus.

It challenges the narrative of helplessness in the face of inflation by creating a commercial environment built on trust, affordability, and value.

Through innovation, efficient logistics, and consumer-focused Financial Technology (FinTech), Konga has turned Yakata into a lever of national economic resilience.

As global prices rise and budgets tighten, Konga Yakata stands firm, not only as a celebration of shopping, but as a purposeful act of support for Nigerian households.

Indeed, Konga Yakata 2025 is more than Black Friday reloaded.

It is a proof that innovation, empathy, and strategy can rewrite the rules of economics, one household at a time.

Gbenga Kayode | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

Barr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, Honourable Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Thursday, November 6, 2025, clarified President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policy decision to stop any asset liquidation efforts from previous administrations regarding the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

蟯簽瓬ぺ reports Keyamo said the affected assets are vital national resources that must stay in ���public hands��� for the benefit of Nigerians.

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The Minister made this clarification at a media briefing with the State House Correspondents, shortly after the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, FCT.

Earlier, President Tinubu had directed a strict prohibition on the sale, or transfer of any properties owned by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and located within or adjacent to airport areas across the West African country.

Minister affirms ‘FAAN properties won’t be given to private entities’

Expatiating further on the Federal Government’s policy halting the sale of FAAN’s properties and assets, Barr. Keyamo also highlighted the necessity of ���on-site housing��� for critical aviation staff, such as firefighters and air traffic controllers, to enable swift crisis interventions at the country���s airports.

He equally emphasised this is a major reason for preserving such properties as strategic assets in the aviation sector of the Nigerian economy.

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The Minister warned: ���These properties will not be handed over to private entities.

���If anyone thinks they���ve acquired one, they should reconsider.”

FEC approves 8 initiatives to improve aviation industry

In a related development, the FEC Thursday, approved eight initiatives for the aviation sector, covering safety protocols, technological advancements, concessions, and fortified security measures at Nigerian airports.

These include procurement deals for upkeep and technical support of Aeronautical Information Management (AIM) systems at the country’s five primary international gateways in Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt and Enugu.

The Council as well authorised the rollout of cutting-edge Terrestrial Trunked Radio (TETRA) energy infrastructure across the country, plus 14 VHF remote communication units for the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to improve air navigation reliability.

In accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requirements, the Federal Executive Council gave approval for acquisition of 15 specialised airport rescue and firefighting trucks tailored for those same major hubs.

Aside from this, NAMA, which has been leasing office space in Abuja, will soon occupy a custom-designed headquarters there, stated Keyamo.

He cited the hazards of situating sensitive command centres in commercial properties in Nigeria.

The FEC further endorsed the economic viability study for privatising Port-Harcourt International Airport���s operations.

Under the present leadership, Keyamo disclosed there is increased private sector enthusiasm in this regard.

The Minister stated: ���Prior to our tenure, interest was nonexistent. Today, more than six firms are vying for the opportunity.”

He assured industry unions that no staff redundancies would result from the deal on privatising the airport operations.

Other nods included a seamless, NIN-integrated biometric screening for passengers at all airports aimed at curbing impersonation and bolstering defences across Nigeria’s aviation facilities.

���Far too many flyers use bogus IDs. This tech will verify identities in real time,��� Keyamo said.

The Council equally validated 2024 Budget allocations for runway illumination at targeted facilities, enabling round-the-clock viability and aiding carriers��� profitability.

���Certain airports close at 6 p.m. due to absent lights. These enhancements will extend service to 10 or 11 p.m.,” he added.

Isola Moses | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

A fresh report indicates that it was harder to hold onto a job October 2025, in the United States (US) due to cost-cutting, softening consumer and corporate spending, and application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) measures for restructuring, among other factors in the American country’s economy.

Report from outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas showed the US employers announced 153,074 job cuts last month, a figure noted as a stunning 175 percent increase from a year earlier, and 183 percent more than what obtained September this year.

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蟯簽瓬ぺ also gathered that the total marks, echoing the tech shakeups of 2003 when cell phones began reshaping industries.

Andy Challenger, Chief Revenue Officer at the firm, said: ���October���s pace of job cutting was much higher than average for the month.

���Some industries are correcting after the hiring boom of the pandemic, but this comes as AI adoption, softening consumer and corporate spending, and rising costs drive belt-tightening and hiring freezes.���

According to report, through the first 10 months of this year, United States’ employers have announced 1.1 million layoffs, up 65 percent from the same period last year and already exceeding the full-year total for 2024.

The last time job cuts were this high was in 2020, during the height of pandemic disruptions, report noted.

AI, automation and overcapacity drive cuts

While layoffs spread across nearly every sector of the US economy, the technology industry once again, led private-sector job cuts, announcing 33,281 layoffs last month, a sixfold increase from September 2025, as companies restructure for AI integration and efficiency.

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The sector���s total for the year now exceeds 141,000 job cuts, up 17 percent from 2024, according to report.

Specifically, the US warehousing sector saw the largest single-month spike, announcing 47,878 layoffs October, compared to fewer than 1,000 in September.

Analysts point to ongoing automation and post-pandemic overcapacity as key drivers, ConsumerAffairs report also said.

Retail remains under pressure, with 88,664 cuts so far this year, up 145 percent from 2024, amid shifting consumer habits and continued store closures.

Even consumer products and services firms, once considered stable employers, reported sharp increases in job reductions due to rising costs and softening demand.

Meanwhile, non-profits saw layoffs surge 419 percent this year, reflecting the downstream impact of declining government funding.

Between cost-cutting and AI

In October, Cost-Cutting was the top reason companies cited for layoffs, responsible for 50,437 job cuts.

Artificial Intelligence also ranked second, prompting 31,039 layoffs as companies continue to automate workflows and streamline staffing.

AI-driven restructuring has been linked to over 48,000 job losses thus far this year.

Other key drivers include market conditions and facility closures, with more than 160,000 job cuts tied to store, plant, or unit shutdowns this year.

Challenger noted that this wave of job cuts marks a departure from recent years, when employers were reluctant to announce layoffs late in the year.

He said: ���Over the last decade, companies have shied away from announcing layoffs in the fourth quarter.

���With social media amplifying the reputational risks, such announcements were often delayed until the new year.���

Besides, making things tougher for laid-off employees, it may be harder to find a new job, report stated.

Through October this year, employers announced 488,077 planned hires, down 35 percent from 2024 and the lowest year-to-date total since 2011.

Only 372,520 seasonal hires were announced, marking the weakest pre-holiday hiring environment since Challenger began tracking such data in 2012.

Challenger, Chief Revenue Officer at outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, however, said: ���It���s possible with rate cuts and a strong showing in November, companies may make a late-season push for employees.

���But at this point, we do not expect a strong seasonal hiring environment in 2025.���

Isola Moses | 蟯簽瓬ぺ

Nigeria has positioned itself as West Africa’s climate action leader, following its submission of the region’s first 3rd National Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, at the ongoing 30th Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP 30), in Bel矇m, Brazil, is preparing to unveil the country’s green transition roadmap to world leaders in a move to position Nigeria to turn its climate commitments into concrete investment opportunities and projects.

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Tenioye Majekodunmi, Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), disclosed this development in an interview with news reporters ahead of the summit’s opening ceremony at the ongoing event in Brazil.

Majekodunmi noted with delight that Nigeria’s pioneering status as the first West African country to submit its National Determined Contribution (NDC) has positioned the country to leverage COP 30 for substantial investment gains and partnerships.

It is recalled that 196 Parties, a decade ago, adopted the Paris Agreement in a landmark moment for global climate action at COP21, in Paris, France.

蟯簽瓬ぺ reports the core of the agreement are the NDCs, through which each Party is required to communicate its emissions reduction targets, and plans to adapt to climate change every five years from 2020 onwards.

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The Director-General of NCCC stated: “This is particularly what we call the implementation COP that we have all been waiting for here in Belem, and we are very excited that it has come.

���COP 30 is particularly important for us in Nigeria because of the momentum that we have gathered in the last two months leading up to the summit.

���First with the submission of our NDC 3.0 and us being the first West African country to submit���this is a turning point for Nigeria.”

3 Major takeaways for Nigeria from COP30, by NCCC Chief

Interacting with the media at the event, Majekodunmi took the opportunity to highlight three key takeaways for Nigeria as the country participates in COP 30.

She disclosed that the gains of the summit would further boost investors’ confidence in doing business with Nigeria.

Majekodunmi noted: “One of the main things we are hoping to take away is to turn all the deliverables in our NDC 3.0 into pipeline projects, partnerships and pay-for-performance because we need to start turning from paper to projects, and COP 30 is where Nigeria would be doing this.

“Two, just a few days ago, the Nigerian Government approved the National Carbon Market Framework and also moved for the operationalisation of our National Climate Change Fund.

���That decision really gives investors a clear policy direction and signals that Nigeria is open for high-integrity carbon investments which deliver real mitigation and community benefits.���

The Director-General emphasised that COP 30 serves as the right time and place to activate the market framework for the country.

She further averred: “Belem gives us the right global matchmaking platform to be able to achieve this, and we are quite excited about what is going to happen.”

As part of the gains of COP 30, Majekodunmi stated that Nigeria would use the global gathering to deepen its South-South cooperation as it concerns climate change matters.

The Chief Executive of NCCC said: “It is something that has never happened before. We are here in the Amazon, we are in the forest, and this collaboration with the Amazon, Congo, and Guinea region forest dialogue���building on what Brazil’s forest protection initiatives have put in place���really just strengthens the Belem agenda.

���We are excited to be able to see how we can improve on this collaboration and take a lot of things home.���

Speaking at the forum also, Mr. Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Nigeria’s Vice President on Media and Communications, said Nigeria���s participation in the international event demonstrates the country’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Paris Accord, and the sustained effort at actualising goal 13 of the accord.

Nkwocha stated: “For us as a country, it is not just about our participation in COP 30 in Belem, Brazil, but it shows clearly the President’s commitment to the 2016 Paris accord, to which Nigeria is a signatory.

It is also to ensure that article 13 of that accord, which talks about climate change, is duly pursued and being implemented to the letter.

The Presidential aide noted: “So, here in Belem, the Vice-President of Nigeria will definitely be speaking to the spirit and body of Nigeria’s intent with particular emphasis on the country’s 3rd National Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0),” he stated.

The Presidential aide also said Nigeria is fully committed to its targets of reducing emissions by 32 percent by 2035 as well as attaining net-zero emissions by 2060.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, GCON, is expected to join other world leaders, development partners, and business executives at the opening ceremony of COP 30, with the theme: “Climate Action and Implementation”, with a strong focus on adaptation, forests, biodiversity, and climate justice.

Shettima will also attend the general plenary of leaders, where he is expected to present Nigeria’s climate action address, according to Nkwocha.