RMAFC Backs Kogi State on 13% Derivation Fund, Sets Up Joint Committee

Maryam Aminu

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has pledged full support to ensure Kogi State receives its rightful share of the 13% derivation fund following its recognition as an oil-producing state.

This assurance was given by the Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, during an interactive session held on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, when he hosted the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and a high-level delegation at the Commission’s headquarters.

Dr. Shehu reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to equity, transparency and strict adherence to the law in the distribution of revenues accrued from oil, gas and solid minerals. He stressed that Kogi State would receive everything due to it once all regulatory processes and documentation are in place.

“Whatever issue you table before us, we will try as much as possible, within the provisions of the law, to see that Kogi State gets what it deserves,” he stated. “Our role is to ensure that the state receives its rightful share of resources and that every allocation is properly documented and protected. We will stand firmly with you to provide the data, guidance and technical support needed to optimize these resources for the benefit of your citizens.”

To advance this commitment, the RMAFC Chairman directed the immediate constitution of a joint technical committee comprising officials from the Commission’s Gas Investments and Crude Oil Departments, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and representatives of the Kogi State Government. The committee is expected to examine all pending issues and recommend actionable solutions.

L-R: RMAFC Chairman, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu OFR presenting a memorabilia to the  Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Ododo FCA.

Governor Ododo, while speaking, lamented that Kogi State has yet to enjoy the benefits of its abundant mineral resources despite its recognition as an oil-producing state.

He expressed concern about the delay in accessing the 13% derivation fund and requested clarity on the status of oil and gas activities within the state’s territory.

The governor, however, expressed confidence that the Commission would handle the matter with fairness and diligence, adding that Kogi State was eager to see its resources fully optimized for the benefit of its people.

The session also featured contributions from senior officials of RMAFC and NUPRC. Barr. Rakiya Tanko Ayuba-Haruna, Federal Commissioner for Kebbi State, reiterated that the 13% derivation is a constitutional mandate that the Commission takes seriously, emphasizing the need for accurate data to ensure states receive what is rightfully theirs.

Hon. (Amb.) Desmond Akawor, Federal Commissioner representing Rivers State, advised the Kogi delegation to study the post-PIA frameworks to better understand contractual obligations and avoid future disputes.

On matters relating to solid minerals, Dr. Udodirim Okongwu, Director of the Inland Revenue Department, representing the Secretary to the Commission, affirmed that RMAFC has the authority to access all necessary data.

Some  federal commissioners and SA to the Chairman of RMAFC during the meeting

She encouraged the state government to establish mineral buying centers to ensure proper attribution and documentation of solid mineral transactions.

Kogi State’s Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Ashiru Asiwaju, reaffirmed the state’s readiness to attract new investors into the oil and gas sector by making critical information available to interested industry players.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Ekekhide Jennifer, Assistant Director and head of the NUPRC delegation, disclosed ongoing oil production activities from OPL 915 (now OML 155) and highlighted the importance of security and infrastructure development in creating an enabling environment for investment.

The meeting underscored the renewed partnership between RMAFC and the Kogi State Government, with both parties expressing commitment to enhancing fiscal governance, strengthening transparency in the management of derivation funds, and ensuring that Nigeria’s oil, gas and solid mineral resources contribute meaningfully to the development and prosperity of the state.

A cross-section of participants during the meeting

AAAU Conducts External Defense for First Postgraduate Cohorts

The African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) Abuja, has successfully conducted its first external defence for its first cohort of postgraduate student, Oluodo Ahmed Tola with research title: Potential of Sustainable Aviation Fuel for Economic Growth in Nigeria, marking a historic milestone in AAAU’s academic development.

A committee of examiners, including the external examiner Prof. Ibrahim Musa Jaro, from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, travelled to Abuja to assess the student, who is the first to complete the full postgraduate cycle up to the defence stage.

The session began with the introduction of committee members, followed by a welcome address delivered on behalf of the Registrar, Dr. Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi by the Principal Assistant Registrar, Mr. Dennis Joseph Onwukwe; The Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies; Dr. Ayodele Gatta also gave brief introduction on the School of postgraduate studies. The Registrar, Dr. Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, Director Academic Planning; Prof. Yahaya Ibrahim Zayanna and Dr. Chado who are currently on official assignment in Brazil, joined the event virtually. Other lecturers and students also joined online.

The student was given 15 minutes to present his research work to validate his authorship, after which the external examiner commenced a detailed, page-by-page evaluation of the research work.

Mr. Ahmed, who is pursuing an M.Sc in Air Transport Management, was given two weeks to complete all corrections raised satisfactorily and was congratulated for achieving the degree, subject to administrative approval by the SPGS Board and the University Senate.

The Registrar, Dr. Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi commended Prof. Jaro and all participants, emphasizing that the defence set a strong precedence for future postgraduate examinations, provided valuable insights for both students and lecturers, and reinforced AAAU’s commitment to excellence in aviation and aerospace education.

IMF Pushes for Stronger Collaboration Between FRC and DMO to Boost Nigeria’s Fiscal-Risk Management

Maryam Aminu

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) and the Debt Management Office (DMO) to deepen their collaboration as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal-risk management framework and promote greater transparency in public finance. This was the central focus of a high-level bilateral meeting hosted by the FRC in Abuja, which brought together senior officials from both agencies and an IMF delegation led by Sybi Hida, Senior Economist in the IMF Fiscal Affairs Department.

Hida explained that the Fund’s mission was to review the country’s progress in identifying and managing fiscal risks, assess existing institutional structures, and encourage more openness in reporting vulnerabilities. He commended the FRC for its efforts so far but stressed that effective fiscal-risk management remained essential for safeguarding public resources and improving overall governance.

During the technical session, Mrs. Rachael Angbazo gave a detailed briefing on Nigeria’s fiscal-risk environment. She noted that the country continued to face significant macroeconomic risks, which she said were linked to oil-market instability, rising inflation, exchange-rate volatility, and increasing interest rates. She added that institutional and governance-related risks persisted, particularly due to weak compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007.

Angbazo further explained that contingent liabilities posed another challenge, drawing attention to government loan guarantees, obligations arising from public-private partnerships, and judgement debts. She stated that environmental and security-related risks such as recurrent flooding, the activities of Boko Haram and other criminal groups, as well as public-health threats like Lassa Fever continued to put additional pressure on the country’s fiscal stability.

She emphasized the FRC’s legal mandate to promote transparency, enforce fiscal rules, and improve the quality of fiscal information available to policymakers. According to her, several provisions of the FRA 2007, including the guidelines for the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework, deficit limits, and fiscal-risk reporting requirements, were central to strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal-risk oversight system.

The FRC also highlighted its ongoing initiatives to strengthen fiscal governance. These included the monitoring of the implementation of the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and the annual budget, supporting states in drafting fiscal-responsibility laws, collaborating with the National Assembly on revenue hearings and oversight of remittances, supervising government borrowing to ensure compliance with the FRA, verifying capital projects across the country, enforcing the disclosure of audited accounts by government entities, and conducting sensitization programmes to improve nationwide compliance.

Despite these efforts, officials pointed out that limited funding, inadequate technical capacity, inconsistent reporting by ministries and agencies, and restricted institutional autonomy continued to hinder the Commission’s ability to conduct advanced fiscal-risk modelling and sustained oversight.

To address these gaps, the meeting recommended a series of reforms. Stakeholders called for amendments to the Fiscal Responsibility Act that would introduce enforceable sanctions and grant prosecutorial powers to the FRC. They also stressed the need to clarify certain legal provisions particularly the application of Section 12(2) to prevent misuse under emergency claims.

The participants emphasized the importance of building internal capacity for fiscal-risk analysis and scenario testing, while also urging stronger inter-agency cooperation and the institutionalization of comprehensive fiscal-risk reporting.

In his closing remarks, Sybi Hida advised the FRC to pay closer attention to legal and capacity-related risks. He reaffirmed the IMF’s willingness to support Nigeria in strengthening its fiscal-governance systems and emphasised the importance of frank, transparent disclosure of fiscal vulnerabilities.

The DMO, represented by Deputy Director Bartholomew Aja and Salisu Ahmed, also underscored its commitment to working more closely with the FRC. The officials noted the need to integrate the Commission more effectively into future debt-sustainability analysis processes and affirmed the DMO’s readiness to deepen inter-institutional cooperation.

The meeting ended with a shared understanding that stronger collaboration, improved transparency, and reliable data are essential pillars for protecting Nigeria’s long-term fiscal stability.

GIANT GEE BOSS, AMB. CHIGBOLU, SAYS ALL IS SET FOR NIGERIA–ITALY INVESTMENT SUMMIT NIIS 2025 ROME BUSINESS FORUM

Maryam Aminu

The Managing Director of Giant Gee Nigeria Ltd., Ambassador Augustine Chigbolu, has confirmed that final arrangements have been concluded ahead of the Rome Business Forum scheduled to hold 26-27 November in Rome.

Speaking with journalists before departing Nigeria through Abidjan, Amb. Chigbolu said both Nigerian and Italian coordinators have put finishing touches in place to ensure a seamless and impactful business forum.

According to him, government officials and private-sector participants have already submitted their visa applications and are awaiting final approval from the Italian Embassy. He noted that many of the delegates are fully prepared to be physically present in Rome once their travel documents are issued.

“Registrations are still open for participants who do not require Schengen visas,” he stated, adding that interest from Italy has been overwhelming. “Several Italian companies, business associations, and private investors have indicated a strong interest in participating. What remains is how quickly the Italian Embassy processes the visas for Nigerian delegates.”

Ambassador Chigbolu emphasized that the summit is expected to strengthen bilateral trade, open new investment channels, and expand opportunities for partnerships between Nigerian and Italian businesses.

He also disclosed that before heading to Rome for the summit, he will make a brief stop in Abidjan to participate in the 2025 African Archery Championship.

The Nigeria–Italy Investment Summit is expected to attract high-level government representatives, investors, and industry players from both countries, with discussions centered on trade, manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and infrastructure development.

Dr. Tim Nda Diche Declares Bid for Senatorial Seat, Calls for Justice

…Says Bassa People Deserve Fair Deal in Upcoming Election

A former commissioner and Maaji of Bassa Nge Kingdom, Dr. Tim Nda Diche, has formally declared his intention to contest the senatorial seat in next year’s election, pledging to champion fairness, equity, and inclusive governance for the people of Bassa and Kogi East in general.

Dr. Diche made the declaration on Friday during a consultative meeting at his residence, attended by critical stakeholders, political leaders, traditional figures, and representatives drawn from all major political parties from Bassa and across Kogi State.

Speaking during the meeting, Dr. Diche lamented what he described as the long-standing marginalization of the Bassa people, stating that it was time for the district to be given a fair chance in the political arrangement of the state.

According to him, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has consistently emphasized balanced representation across all axes of the state, a principle he believes should guide the political decisions ahead of the next election.

“We the people of Bassa have been sidelined for too long in the scheme of things,” he said. “This is the time for us to speak with one voice. I am not here for a personal or regional agenda. I am a bridge-builder and a founding member of the APC. For over 18 years, I have been active on the political stage, and I have planted myself in the minds of our people.”

Dr. Diche stressed that he was offering himself for service because of his unflinching commitment to the welfare of the Bassa people and Kogi East at large.

“Bassa has existed for over 50 years, yet we still struggle for basic representation,” he noted. “Politics should not be about popularity alone. If the government believes in fairness and inclusivity, then Bassa deserves consideration. I am not here to lead for self-interest but to defend the interests of my people.”

He highlighted several infrastructural challenges faced by Bassa, including the neglected federal road in the area, despite representation by multiple senators from the eastern axis.

“Let one of our own be there to speak for us,” he added. “This is not the first time I am contesting for national interest. I have contested for the House of Representatives before. But I am starting again from home because I believe this job must be done. It’s not about me; it’s about the people.”

Dr. Diche appealed for unity among stakeholders, urging those who may not directly support him to at least pray for him and support the collective struggle for fairness.

“If by the grace of God I get the APC ticket, I ask you all—adopt me, stand with me, and let us work together. I will protect the collective interest of Bassa,” he pledged.

Stakeholders who spoke at the meeting counseled him on way forward and appealed to the state government to consider their son, Dr. Diche, whom they described him as a credible representative who understands the struggles of the Bassa people.

One of the stakeholders noted, “We are strongly behind him in every way. He is our own, and we must rally around him.”

Another added, “Some of us here are old politicians, and we are happy today. We finally have someone who can speak out for us. This is not a personal fight but a fight for the people. Collective struggle brings collective results.”

A third speaker stressed on the unity displayed at the meeting, which according to him, “This gathering has no party coloration—we are talking to ourselves as a people. We feel the pain of marginalization, and we must not allow ourselves to be divided. Whoever emerges, let us join hands together.”

The stakeholders later prayed for Dr. Diche, thanking God for giving Bassa a son committed to championing their cause.

Zainab Abdullahi of the Tinubu Hope Initiative also prayed for a stronger political and financial base for the Bassa people, urging continued unity ahead of the election.

Nasser International Actively Participates in the 2025 Pan-African Youth Forum

Nasser International Forum participated in the activities of the Pan-African Youth Forum 2025, hosted by the Republic of Djibouti and organized by the African Union Commission from 4 to 6 November 2025 under the theme “From Ambition to Action: Youth as Catalysts for Sustainable Development.” This participation reaffirms the forum’s active role in youth diplomacy at the African level, within the framework of supporting Africa’s Agenda 2063 and promoting African integration in the fields of development, innovation, and leadership.

Anthropologist Hassan Ghazaly, founder of the Nasser International Forum, stated that Egypt’s participation in this continental event represents an important step toward strengthening youth integration. He noted that Djibouti holds a symbolic position as a bridge connecting the Arab and African worlds.

Ghazaly added that the participation of the Nasser International Forum in the Pan-African Youth Forum was diverse and reflected the values and principles upheld by the forum, which are based on pluralism and cross-border cooperation. The delegation included a distinguished group of young people from different backgrounds representing the geographical and cultural scope in which the forum operates.

He explained that the Egyptian delegation included Dr. Mohamed Ezz and Engineer Rowan Al-Omda. It also included from Sudan Engineer Hudhaifa Al-Hassan, from The Gambia the legal expert Bubba Fatty, and from Djibouti the UN activist Malika Elias.

Ghazaly emphasized that this diversity reflects the forum’s commitment to empowering youth from various countries and promoting dialogue and integration among regions through exchanging expertise and perspectives on issues of development, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

For his part, Engineer Hudhaifa Al-Hassan, Secretary-General of the Arab-African Youth Council and a graduate of the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship, noted that the Arab-African Youth Council organized a panel discussion on the sidelines of the forum titled “The Role of Inclusive Markets and Inclusive Business in Achieving Regional Integration.” The session addressed the role of Arab and African youth in shaping the continent’s future through building inclusive markets and businesses that enhance opportunities for sustainable development and empower young people economically and socially.

The delegation members also stressed during the forum’s sessions the importance of shifting from individual initiatives to regional cooperation networks capable of creating lasting economic and social impact. They presented their vision regarding the opportunities and challenges facing the establishment of inclusive markets in Africa, along with real-world experiences from projects of the Nasser International Forum and the Arab-African Youth Council that aim to build youth capacities and empower them economically and socially through supporting entrepreneurship and sustainable development.

It is worth noting that the Nasser International Forum is a leading platform that embodies a comprehensive vision for promoting cooperation in the field of public diplomacy. Its foundations gradually took shape starting in 2019. The forum encompasses a range of youth programs and initiatives designed to build bridges of cultural communication and exchange expertise. Among its key initiatives are the Nasser International Leadership Fellowship, the Nasser Youth Movement for Bilateral Relations Development, the National Vanguard School, the Nasser Social Platform (experimental), and the official website. Together, these initiatives form an effective model that combines thought and practice in preparing leaders capable of contributing to development and international cooperation.

Defence Minister Flags Off 2026 Armed Forces Celebration, Says Over 13,000 Terrorists Neutralized Under Tinubu Administration

Maryam Aminu

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar (CON, mni), has officially flagged off activities marking the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD), reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to honouring the courage and sacrifices of the nation’s troops while strengthening military operations across all fronts.

Speaking during a press briefing held at the Sani Abacha Hall of the National Defence College in Abuja, Abubakar disclosed that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the Armed Forces have recorded landmark achievements in the war against insecurity.

He revealed that troops have neutralized over 13,000 terrorists and criminals, arrested more than 17,000 suspects, and rescued close to 10,000 hostages from insurgent captivity.

The Minister added that over 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP combatants, alongside their families, have surrendered to Nigerian troops. According to him, these coordinated operations have dismantled terrorist strongholds, neutralized notorious commanders, and restored peace to hundreds of communities, allowing displaced persons to return to their homes.

Abubakar noted that the Ministry of Defence, under President Tinubu’s direction, has achieved significant operational milestones through improved synergy among the Services and other security agencies. He said the government’s intensified efforts have contributed to enhanced national security and renewed public confidence in the Armed Forces.

The Minister explained that the administration’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s vital economic assets is evident in the South-South region, where over 1,900 illegal refining sites have been destroyed, leading to a considerable reduction in crude oil theft and maritime-related crimes.

He, however, cautioned that remnants of criminal elements still pose a threat to national peace and security, emphasizing that the President has directed the Ministry and the Armed Forces to sustain and intensify ongoing operations until all remaining threats are eliminated.

Abubakar described the signing of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Act in 2023 as a milestone in indigenous defence production, positioning Nigeria as an emerging hub for military technology in Africa. He said the recent procurement of Armoured Fighting Vehicles, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, and naval vessels has strengthened the nation’s operational readiness and reduced its dependence on foreign imports.

The Minister stressed that the real strength of any military lies not only in its equipment but in its personnel.

He reiterated that troop welfare remains a top priority through the “Soldier First” initiative, which has led to the upward review of the Ration Cash Allowance and significant investments in modernizing barracks to ensure that military personnel live and serve in dignified conditions.

He further disclosed that the government has made remarkable progress in improving healthcare for troops, including the establishment of the Invictus Care Centre for wounded personnel and the upgrade of several military hospitals.

He noted that the payment of ₦18 billion in Group Life Insurance benefits and the introduction of the Debarment Allowance were clear demonstrations of government’s dedication to ensuring the welfare and dignity of service members and veterans.

Abubakar also revealed plans to launch a Veterans’ Databank and Call Centre to enhance service delivery and provide a reliable platform for addressing veterans’ needs efficiently. He said a committee has been constituted to review the Nigerian Legion Act, with the goal of renaming it the Veterans Federation of Nigeria (VFN) to strengthen the legal framework for veterans’ welfare and reintegration programmes.

The Minister explained that as part of a broader strategic vision, the Ministry is developing a new initiative known as the “Reclaiming the Ungoverned Space for Economic Benefits Programme” (RUSEB-P). He said the programme is designed to engage retired but agile military veterans in restoring security and driving economic recovery in previously insurgent-occupied areas. Abubakar stated that by involving veterans in local security, farming, and mining projects, the initiative would help prevent the resurgence of terrorism, revitalize local economies, and reinforce national unity.

Highlighting the theme of the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration, “Valour, Sacrifice and Unity: Honouring Our Heroes,” the Minister said the commemoration reflects the enduring spirit of heroism, patriotism, and national solidarity that defines Nigeria’s military tradition.

He disclosed that this year’s event would feature a new digital initiative called the “Thank A Soldier” QR Code, which allows Nigerians at home and abroad to send personalized messages of appreciation and tributes to serving and fallen soldiers. The innovation, he explained, aligns with the government’s drive to modernize national engagement through digital inclusion and youth participation.

Abubakar announced that the official launch of the National Emblem Appeal would be conducted by President Tinubu on 27 November 2025, while the main Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony would take place on 15 January 2026 at the National Arcade in Abuja and simultaneously across all states of the federation.

He also noted that the week-long commemoration would feature humanitarian outreach programmes, religious services, a national symposium on security and development, and a fundraising gala in support of the Armed Forces Foundation.

The Minister urged Nigerians to wear the Remembrance Emblem with pride and to support the families of fallen heroes, describing the Armed Forces as symbols of national unity and sovereignty. He appealed to the media to ensure wide coverage of the celebration to inspire patriotism and appreciation for the sacrifices of the nation’s servicemen and women.

Abubakar expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast leadership under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said has strengthened defence operations and reinforced the morale of military personnel. He called on citizens to continue supporting the government’s efforts to secure the nation and to remain united in honouring those who serve and protect the country.

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a stronger, safer, and more united Nigeria, pledging continued support for the Armed Forces in their mission to defend the nation’s territorial integrity and promote peace.

AAAU, De Montfort University Deepen Partnership Ahead of Faculty of Engineering Launch

Emmanuel Daudu

In a major stride toward advancing aviation and aerospace education in Africa, the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Abuja, has held a high-level preparatory meeting with De Montfort University (DMU), United Kingdom, ahead of the official take-off of its Faculty of Engineering.

The AAAU delegation embarked on a strategic facility tour of DMU’s School of Engineering and Sustainable Development, where discussions centred on faculty development, infrastructure readiness, and technical collaboration. The initiative forms part of AAAU’s broader vision to launch degree programmes in Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering programmes designed to equip Africa’s next generation of aviation professionals with world-class technical expertise and hands-on skills.

Led by AAAU’s Registrar, Dr. Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, the team included Dr. Endurance Keyamo, Head of Department, Aviation Business, and Dr. Joel Adams of the Royal Air Force. They were received by Dr. Richard Cross, Duncan Hepworth, and Dr. John Asu of DMU.

The visit also featured an extensive review of DMU’s laboratories, workshops, and academic facilities to guide the design and implementation of AAAU’s forthcoming Faculty of Engineering infrastructure.

Describing the partnership as “a pivotal step toward global excellence,” AAAU officials emphasized that the collaboration will strengthen international academic ties and ensure that the university’s engineering programmes align with international standards in aerospace education and research.

Airtel vs. Mr. Olakunle Jagun: A Landmark Case on Workplace Discrimination and Corporate Power

Maryam Aminu

In what legal experts are describing as a watershed moment in Nigeria’s fight against workplace discrimination, the National Industrial Court sitting in Lagos has delivered a landmark judgment against telecommunications giant Airtel Networks Limited, awarding a total of ₦150.2 million in damages to Mr. Olakunle Jagun, a long-serving employee living with a disability.


Presided over by Hon. Justice Joyce Damachi, the Court found Airtel guilty of wrongful termination and discrimination against Mr. Jagun, a wheelchair user who had faithfully served the company since 2004. The ruling described Airtel’s conduct as a “clear violation of the Lagos State Special People’s Law 2010” and of Mr. Jagun’s constitutional right to freedom from discrimination under Section 42 of the 1999 Constitution.
The Court ordered Airtel to pay Mr. Jagun:
• ₦99,426,880 as special damages (representing 60 months’ salary),
• ₦50 million as general and exemplary damages, and
• ₦831,874.58 as withheld entitlements between January and October 2023  all within 30 days.


Mr. Jagun’s ordeal began after a health crisis in 2007 left him dependent on a wheelchair. Despite this, he continued to work with distinction, earning commendations and promotions. However, following a second health challenge in 2022, Airtel subjected him to a “wellness test” the result of which was never disclosed to him.
Months later, the company concluded he had “incurred permanent disability” and terminated his employment on October 26, 2023, citing prolonged absence in breach of its leave policy. The court later held that Airtel’s decision was unjust, noting that the company failed to follow due process or disclose the test results which it used as the basis for termination.
Justice Damachi ruled that Airtel “serially breached” its own procedures, replacing fairness with “personal opinion of fairness,” and stressed that denying Mr. Jagun access to his medical report violated his rights and the company’s duty of transparency.


This judgment represents more than one man’s vindication; it exposes a systemic culture where corporate might too often crushes individual rights. It is a classic case of the strong preying on the weak a global corporation using its vast resources to intimidate and silence an employee living with disability.
Airtel’s action and now its decision to appeal the ruling  raises serious questions about corporate ethics, accountability, and the protection of workers’ rights in Nigeria. As a publicly quoted company, Airtel owes its profits and reputation to millions of Nigerians. It must not be allowed to trample on the rights of those very citizens on whose loyalty and labour it thrives.


For decades, countless Nigerians have lost limbs, livelihoods, and even their lives in workplaces without receiving justice or adequate compensation. Too many cases of corporate abuse have vanished into silence  buried under the weight of money, influence, and power.
This case must not go the way of others before it.
Civil society groups, human rights advocates, and Nigeria’s labour organisations must closely monitor the appeal process and ensure that Mr. Olakunle Jagun’s case remains in the public eye. The outcome will set an important precedent  one that determines whether people with disabilities can truly find justice in the face of discrimination and corporate intimidation.
The Bigger Picture
Justice Damachi’s decision stands as a reminder that disability is not inability, and that the law recognizes the dignity and equal rights of all Nigerians, regardless of their physical condition. The Lagos State Special People’s Law 2010 explicitly prohibits discrimination in employment and mandates compensation for workers whose disabilities were sustained in the course of employment a provision the court rightly upheld.


As the case proceeds to appeal, the Nigerian public  and indeed, the world  will be watching to see whether justice for Mr. Olakunle Jagun will stand, or whether another multinational will use its power to bend the scales once again.

Nigeria, Vietnam Seal Strategic Cashew Alliance To Boost Global Trade And Value Addition

Maryam Aminu

In a groundbreaking move set to redefine the global cashew industry, Nigeria and Vietnam have entered into a strategic partnership to revolutionize cashew production, processing, and trade between both nations.

The landmark agreement sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN) and the Vietnam Cashew Association (VINACAS) was signed during the 14th VINACAS Golden Cashew Rendezvous 2025, held from October 26–28 in Hanoi, Vietnam, as part of activities marking VINACAS’ 35th anniversary celebration.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Ojo Joseph Ajanaku, National President of NCAN, described the partnership as a major milestone in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation and non-oil export drive. According to him, the MoU will strengthen bilateral trade, encourage technology transfer, and boost competitiveness in the global cashew market.

“This partnership will enhance value addition through modern processing technologies, promote diversification into cashew-based beverages and by-products, and create more jobs for rural communities,” Dr. Ajanaku stated.

He revealed that Nigeria exported $420 million worth of cashew to Vietnam in 2025, expressing optimism that the collaboration would further enhance production efficiency and expand market access for Nigerian products.

A key highlight of the Hanoi conference was the recognition of Kogi Cashew as the most nutritious cashew in the world, a feat that reinforces Nigeria’s rising prominence in the global cashew trade.

Dr. Ajanaku noted that the new partnership will leverage this recognition through innovation, research, and continuous quality improvement.

Under the MoU, both nations will promote trade in raw and processed cashew, facilitate the exchange of processing technologies, encourage joint investments, and advance sustainable farming practices. Vietnam’s technical expertise and advanced machinery, he added, will play a crucial role in expanding Nigeria’s processing capacity and driving economic diversification.

To ensure sustained implementation, both associations agreed to establish a Joint Working Committee that will monitor progress and report outcomes annually.

The signing was witnessed by top Nigerian officials and private sector stakeholders, including Muhammed Tukur Usman (Director, FDA-FMAS), Mr. Babagana Musti (NEXIM Bank), Jude Osilama, Evidence Iyamu, Mr. Victor Omofaiye (DG, KOSCEPA), Alh. Abu Muhammed Kabir (NCAN Financial Secretary), and Tchidi Okike Zacchaeus (Merchant Farmer).

Currently, Nigeria ranks among Africa’s top cashew producers with over 500,000 metric tonnes annually, exporting mainly to Vietnam and India. With the renewed partnership, NCAN projects that Nigeria’s cashew export earnings could exceed $500 million annually, unlocking new opportunities across the agricultural value chain.