LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 13, 2026 — The Bank of Industry (BOI) has partnered with the Plateau State Government to establish a ₦4 billion matching fund aimed at expanding affordable, long-term financing for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the state.
According to BOI, entrepreneurs in all 17 local government areas will be able to access the BOI–PLSG Matching Fund for equipment acquisition and working capital at single-digit interest rates. The initiative is designed to strengthen local value chains, support enterprise growth, and create jobs throughout Plateau State.
BOI, Nigeria’s leading development finance institution, focuses on industrial growth by providing loans and advisory services to MSMEs and larger businesses, with priority sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, technology, and the creative industries.
OSHOGBO, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 13, 2026 — Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has reaffirmed his administration’s strong commitment to the welfare and inclusion of Persons With Disabilities.
The governor made the declaration on March 11, 2026, when he hosted leaders of the disability community at the Government House in Oshogbo.
In a statement issued Thursday, Adeleke highlighted that his government’s inclusive policies had led to the signing of the Osun State Disability Bill into law and the establishment of the Bureau of People with Disabilities. He noted that the bureau was created to ensure fair representation in appointments and employment opportunities for members of the community.
“Yesterday, I was delighted to receive leaders of the disability community in Osun State at the Government House, where I reaffirmed my administration’s strong commitment to their welfare and inclusion. Our government believes no citizen should be left behind, which is why we signed the Disability Bill into law, established the Bureau of People with Disabilities, and ensured members of the community benefit from appointment and employment opportunities,” the statement read in part.
In addition, Governor Adeleke welcomed leaders of the Ndigbo community in Osun State, who paid him a courtesy visit and pledged their support for his second-term bid.
He expressed gratitude to the southeastern community, acknowledging their developmental contributions to the state’s social and economic growth. Adeleke assured them that his administration would continue to promote inclusiveness, support the progress of all communities, and sustain policies that strengthen unity, development, and shared prosperity across Osun State.
ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 12, 2026 — Nigeria’s major opposition leader and 2027 presidential aspirant, Mr Peter Obi, has blamed poor strategic planning for the surge in petrol and diesel prices in the country triggered by the ongoing Middle East conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
In a statement on Thursday, titled “When Countries Fail to Plan”, Obi noted that most nations, whether oil producers or not, maintain strategic petroleum reserves to cushion against supply shocks. Nigeria’s failure to establish such buffers, he said, exposes the economy to immediate impacts.
Obi stressed that countries with effective planning can absorb external shocks, while those without remain vulnerable. “When a country fails to plan, it has already planned to fail,” he wrote.
He cited recent price hikes as evidence: petrol rising from below ₦1,000 to over ₦1,200 per litre, and diesel climbing from under ₦1,000 to above ₦1,500. These rapid increases, he argued, show how global tensions quickly destabilise Nigeria’s economy.
Obi concluded that Nigeria’s lack of reserves and foresight underscores the urgent need for strategic planning to shield citizens from future disruptions.
ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 12, 2026 — Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to strengthening military partnerships with friendly nations, particularly in advanced professional training to address evolving security threats. He made this known on Thursday while receiving the Egyptian Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Colonel Mohammed Ibrahim, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja.
Shaibu highlighted Nigeria’s longstanding military ties with Egypt, describing the collaboration as vital for enhancing operational capability and professional development. He stressed that sustained cooperation through advanced courses, training exchanges, and military education is critical to preparing personnel for contemporary challenges.
He noted that many Nigerian officers have benefited from specialised training in Egypt, boosting the Army’s competence, and expressed readiness to expand such opportunities. In a statement by Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, Shaibu also underscored the importance of strengthening institutional linkages, including strategic-level training and participation in programmes at the Nigerian Army War College. He invited the Egyptian Army to join the forthcoming Nigerian Army Day Celebration in July 2026.
Colonel Ibrahim said his visit was to review the implementation of the 2024 Memorandum of Understanding between both militaries. He reported significant progress, especially in training cooperation, and noted preparations for the next Military Committee Meeting in Cairo later this year. He reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Nigeria, particularly in advanced training and intelligence sharing to tackle shared security challenges.
ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 12, 2026 — The Nigeria Police Force on Thursday held a Pull-Out Parade in honour of its immediate past Inspector-General of Police, Dr Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun (rtd), PhD, NPM.
The colourful ceremony, staged at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, marked the formal conclusion of Egbetokun’s distinguished policing career spanning more than three and a half decades.
The current Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, commended his predecessor for his dedication, professionalism, and exemplary leadership. He highlighted Egbetokun’s contributions to strengthening operational efficiency, advancing intelligence-led policing, enhancing professionalism, and reinforcing the institutional values of discipline, accountability, and service within the Force.
In a statement, on Thursday, issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the IGP expressed, on behalf of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, profound appreciation for the retired IGP’s outstanding service and invaluable contributions to policing in Nigeria.
In his farewell address, Egbetokun expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the nation for thirty-six years. He reflected on deliberate efforts made during his tenure to strengthen institutional processes, expand operational capabilities, and enhance professionalism across the Force. Among his key initiatives were the expansion of the Intelligence Bureau into a full department, the elevation of the Legal and Medical Units to directorate status, the establishment of the Nigeria Police Cybercrime Centre, improvements to the National Criminal Database, and the creation of additional Police Mobile Force Squadrons, Area Commands, and the Special Intervention Squad.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Chairman, House Committee on Police Affairs, Hon. Dr Abubakar Yellman (represented by Hon. Kama Nkemkanma); the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi; the Chairman, Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd); former Inspectors-General of Police Mike Okiro (rtd) and Ogbonna Onovo (rtd); as well as heads and representatives of sister security agencies and traditional rulers led by the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, HRM Oba Kehinde Olugbenle.
ABUJA, NIGERIA (Agency Report) — March 12, 2026 — The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), backed by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has released its timetable for the 2027 General Elections, fixing May 25 for the Presidential primary election.
The party announced the development in a communique issued at the end of the 106th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, read by the National Publicity Secretary, Mr Jungudo Mohammed, in Abuja on Wednesday.
The NEC fixed the submission of the membership register for April 10, State Assembly primaries for May 2, National Assembly primaries for May 9, and gubernatorial primaries for May 16.
It explained that the timetable was in line with the revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Elections as issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), pursuant to the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022.
It noted the proposed schedule of activities in compliance with the INEC timetable, including the submission of the party’s register of members to the commission and the conduct of party primaries for various elective offices.
“This also included the timelines for the resolution of disputes arising from such primaries,” it added.
It urged all organs and stakeholders of the party to commence the necessary preparations and ensure strict adherence to the approved timetable and all relevant statutory provisions.
The NEC commended the National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC) led by Abdulrahman Mohammed for its commitment and efforts in stabilising the party and guiding its affairs during this transitional period.
The committee noted with satisfaction the successful conduct of the Ward and Local Government Congresses, while the State Congresses were scheduled to be held this weekend across the country.
It expressed confidence that the congress would be peaceful, transparent, and in strict compliance with the constitution and guidelines of the party.
The NEC further approved the conduct of the Zonal Congresses scheduled to take place in a fortnight, as part of the party’s orderly progression toward the National Convention.
It called on all leaders, stakeholders, and members across the country to remain united, disciplined, and focused, and to support all processes leading to the successful conduct of the State, Zonal, and National Convention activities.
It welcomed the judgments of the Court of Appeal affirming the leadership and authority of the NCWC, noting that the rulings have strengthened the constitutional processes and stability of the Party.
The communique emphasised the urgent need for reconciliation, unity, and collective responsibility among all leaders and stakeholders of the party.
It stressed that the strength of the PDP lies in its ability to resolve internal disagreements through dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to party structures.
The NEC further called on all parties involved in disputes within the party to embrace reconciliation and refrain from pursuing further litigation at the Supreme Court, in the overriding interest of unity, stability, and the future of the party.
It approved the commencement and expansion of the party’s electronic membership registration as part of efforts to modernise the party’s membership database, strengthen grassroots participation, and enhance transparency and efficiency in party administration.
The party reaffirmed preparations for the forthcoming National Convention scheduled for March 29 and 30, where a new National Working Committee (NWC) would be elected in accordance with the constitution of the party.
The NEC reaffirmed the commitment of the party to democratic principles, national unity, good governance, and the welfare of Nigerians, while assuring citizens that the PDP remains the most credible platform for responsible leadership and national development.
It expressed optimism for renewed unity and determination among party leaders and members, to strengthen the party’s position for greater national service. (NAN).
LAGOS, NIGERIA (Agency Report) — March 12, 2026 — Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, has pledged to address infrastructure and operational challenges hindering businesses at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex.
Oduwole pledged during a visit and inspection of the complex along the Badagry Expressway on Wednesday in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the minister met traders, importers and entrepreneurs to discuss challenges affecting business operations within the market.
She said the government recognised the vital role of local investors and businesses in driving trade and economic growth, noting their concerns had been duly acknowledged.
Oluwole said, “We have been talking about attracting foreign investments, but local investments must also thrive.
“We will work with you on the logistics and infrastructure challenges raised to encourage more people to trade here.”
She assured traders that the government would address the issues progressively, stressing that practical solutions would be implemented.
“We will tackle these issues one after another, and I assure you that solutions will be provided,” she said.
Earlier, President of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, Mr Okechukwu Ezigbo, decried the poor infrastructure, multiple taxation and extortion by non-state actors.
Ezigbo warned that failure to urgently address the challenges could force many businesses to shut down investments worth trillions of naira.
He said traders required stronger government support to sustain their contributions running into billions of naira annually in government revenue.
Ezigbo noted that traders and investors had invested heavily in developing the complex after years of neglect.
“This market feeds the entire West African region, but due to infrastructure decay, we are losing customers to Cotonou and Seme,” he said.
He also decried widespread extortion along the trade corridor linking the Seme border and the market.
“There are about 22 checkpoints between Seme and here, run by state and non-state actors, and we are extorted at each point,” he said.
Ezigbo urged the government to remove illegal checkpoints and curb the activities of touts extorting traders along the corridor.
He also appealed for improved road networks, a stable electricity supply and water infrastructure within the complex to ease business operations.
Ezigbo added that hostile policies and the demolition of some market structures last year caused heavy financial losses for traders.
He said improving the business environment would encourage local manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports. (NAN).
LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 12, 2026 — The English Royal Family on Wednesday hosted a reception with members of the Nigerian Diaspora in the United Kingdom, ahead of the forthcoming State Visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, scheduled for March 18–19, 2026, at the invitation of King Charles III.
In a post on its official X handle, the Royal Family wrote: “Last night, The King hosted a reception with members of the Nigerian Diaspora in the UK, ahead of the incoming State Visit of the President of Nigeria.”
The post added: “With jollof rice and music by Dele Sosimi and the Afrobeats Orchestra — it was a wonderful evening. Thank you to everyone who joined us!”
During the visit, Tinubu will be hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.
The visit marks the first inward State Visit by a Nigerian President in 37 years, underscoring Nigeria’s growing diplomatic influence and strengthening ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 12, 2026 — Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has condemned what he described as ongoing political repression by the Ugandan Government and security agencies, particularly targeting his security team.
In a statement issued Wednesday, Wine alleged that during the 2021 election, police officers attached to his campaign were violently attacked and subjected to brutality. He further claimed that after the polls, several of them, including their head Afande Kato, were arrested and detained for an extended period.
He said the officers were interrogated about his party’s sources of funding, his meetings, and election strategies, as well as why they sought to shield him from violent attacks by other sections of the police and military. Wine added that similar harassment has continued into 2026, with campaign officers again being arrested and questioned.
The opposition leader stressed that these officers were targeted simply for performing their duties with professionalism and patriotism. He urged Ugandans to stand in solidarity with them and work toward securing their freedom.
The statement reads in part: “In the 2021 election, the police officers who were attached to our campaign were attacked violently and subjected to all manner of brutality. After the election, several of them including their head, Afande Kato were arrested and detained for a long period.”
“Now, in 2026, we have learnt that the officers who were attached to our campaign have also been arrested and are being interrogated. These officers are usually targeted for doing their job with professionalism and patriotism. May we all stand in solidarity with them, and work for their freedom.”
Wine, who has endured political harassment since 2017, now faces arrest and challenges to his party’s legitimacy—underscoring the broader struggle between Uganda’s opposition and President Museveni’s entrenched administration.
ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 12, 2026 — Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education has reiterated its dedication to strengthening education reforms, expanding opportunities for young Nigerians, and deepening collaboration with other Commonwealth nations to advance sustainable development and shared prosperity. This was highlighted during the 2026 Commonwealth Celebration held at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the 2026 theme, “Unlocking Opportunities Together for a Prosperous Commonwealth,” aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes education reform, innovation, human capital development, and inclusive economic growth.
Alausa underscored the Federal Government’s continued investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a key driver of national progress. He revealed that about 250,000 Nigerians are currently enrolled in programmes across technical colleges, skills centres, and accredited vocational institutions, where they are gaining industry-relevant skills essential for the modern workforce.
In a statement on Thursday, the ministry noted that the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Abel Enitan, described education as the most powerful tool for unlocking opportunities, reducing inequality, and driving national development. He stressed the importance of leveraging Commonwealth partnerships to strengthen learning, foster research collaboration, and promote youth empowerment initiatives.
